Michael Nelson

Finland is the Happiest country in the World for the 9th year running. We also climbed up the world brand index from 7th to 5th. I am often asked why we do well in these rankings. I do not think there is a magic potion, but it helps to have a society which strives towards freedom, equality and justice. The basis of it all is a welfare society, a robust education system, a sense of security and a close attachment to nature. There is no such thing as a perfectly happy society, but providing some building blocks that give us a chance to live a meaningful life, to help others, will nudge us in the right direction during the journey of life.

Kaine: Chris asked Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Senator Jim Risch: ‘When are we going to have a public hearing about this war? When?’ Senator Risch responded: ‘I have decided that we will not have public hearings because I do not believe the administration’s decision-makers should be subject to public questioning by senators.’ I mean, can you believe that? I give him credit—I’ll give him credit for candor—but they do not believe that civilian decision-makers should be subject to questions by United States senators. If they were secure in the justness of their cause or the adequacy of their plan, they would not be afraid to answer public questions about what they’re doing.

How much is President Trump willing to forgive Putin? He’s helping the Iranians attempt to kill Americans, and Trump doesn’t seem all that bothered by it at all. It’s not even worth some harsh words. We’ve seen the president rage on Truth Social about Fed Chair Jerome Powell, actor and director Rob Reiner, or New York Times journalists who he keeps giving exclusive interviews. But no matter what Putin does, Trump never seems to get all that angry about him.

Anne Applebaum nails it: