What's Happening

Health

Trump's IVF Price Cut

What's going on: After dubbing himself the “father of IVF” on the campaign trail, President Donald Trump announced his first concrete plan yesterday to make in vitro fertilization (IVF) more affordable. The deal involves EMD Serono, one of the world’s largest fertility drug manufacturers, which agreed to lower medication prices between 42% to 79%. That means drugs like Gonal-f, which stimulates ovaries to produce healthy eggs, will be cheaper on TrumpRx in 2026. Discounts will vary based on income, and Trump’s plan will ease restrictions on employers who want to expand fertility coverage. The administration hopes the pricing deal will nudge more small businesses to provide the benefit. Just 30% of families currently get any employer-provided fertility coverage.

What it means: Roughly one in six women of reproductive age face fertility challenges — and this pricing deal could make IVF more accessible. But it’s unclear whether the new guidelines will actually encourage companies to cover the procedure, especially since a single cycle can cost $15,000 to $20,000. Employers also won’t be required to offer the benefit, a break from the president’s campaign promises. Trump’s announcement comes as his base remains divided on the ethics of IVF. While some say the deal is a step in the right direction, critics say the administration’s broader policies have undercut families elsewhere — from SNAP cuts to health care rollbacks.

Related: SNAP Benefits To Face “Insufficient Funds” if the Shutdown Doesn’t End (USA Today)

International

US Steps Up Pressure in Venezuela

What's going on: President Donald Trump pulled back the (spy) curtain this week, admitting he authorized the CIA to carry out covert operations in Venezuela. The revelation follows deadly US military strikes on alleged drug-trafficking ships in the Caribbean, at least five of which originated from Venezuela. Trump has ramped up action against the South American country, citing concerns that it’s sending Tren de Aragua gang members into the US — a claim the FBI refuted — and is responsible for “a lot of drugs” entering America. Earlier this week, the administration said it might consider land strikes against Venezuela — a move that would mark a major escalation, according to The New York Times. The Pentagon already deployed special forces and B-52 bombers in the region in what one US official called a “show of force.”

What it means: Analysts say Trump’s pressure campaign has a larger goal: oust Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Earlier this month, the administration offered up to $50 million for information leading to Maduro’s arrest, and ended diplomatic talks. But whether these tactics and recent military strikes will achieve regime change is uncertain. The administration’s foreign policy approach has also sparked criticism — and just yesterday, the top US military admiral overseeing the Caribbean resigned (though his reason for doing so is unclear). Meanwhile, Maduro rejected the threats and said Venezuela is “ready for combat,” according to The Wall Street Journal. Venezuela has also taken its concerns to the United Nations Security Council, where the US holds veto power.

Related: Journalists Don’t Want To Play by the Pentagon’s New Rules (AP News)

Technology

Now Streaming — You in AI

What's going on: We’ve all spent a little too much time perfecting our avatars, whether it’s for Wii Sports or Apple Memojis. Now, DirecTV is taking things to the next level. The platform is partnering with AI company Glance to put subscribers on TV. Here’s how it works: You’ll be able to upload your photo and see an AI-generated version of yourself on the TV screensavers starting next year. However, this isn’t some cute gimmick. These AI-powered screensavers are actually ads for different products. You’ll be able to buy the outfits or furniture that you see yourself (but not the real you) using, making you the star of a customizable ad. 

What it means: DirecTV’s foray into AI-powered ads is just the latest example of advertisers using the technology to sell us more stuff (whether we need it or not). Walmart customers will soon be able to shop through ChatGPT, Amazon’s site is gradually filling up with AI-driven ads, and TikTok already runs campaigns with AI influencers. As the tech further integrates into everyday life, questions are mounting about where the line should be drawn between convenience, entertainment, and intrusion.

Related: OpenAI Is Rolling Out Erotica As Sam Altman Says They Aren’t the “Moral Police” (CNBC)