Daily Skimm

“Marty the Moose”

— The 6-foot tall stuffed moose parading through a Senate office building. The buck stops here.

Top Story

Embryo Flow

The Story

Move over AI, synthetic embryos are taking over the conversation.

(Petri) dish it out for me.

Yesterday, scientists announced they created human-like embryos for the first time ever using stem cells. Getting déjà vu? That's because last year, researchers were able to create and grow synthetic mouse embryos. Now, scientists have used human embryonic stem cells to create model embryos containing cells that’d typically go on to develop a yolk sac and placenta. The synthetic embryos did not have a beating heart or a brain. While the research has yet to be published, the advancement has scientists looking into how far they can get with lab-grown embryos.

How far is too far?

Researchers say they're not near the point of being able to create full embryos without an egg and sperm. Also, it's illegal to implant synthetic embryos in a patient's womb. Scientists are only allowed to cultivate human embryos in a lab for up to 14 days. Researchers are hopeful the development could help them study genetic disorders and recurrent miscarriages. Meanwhile, critics say there's a fine ethical line scientists may be crossing.

theSkimm

Scientific breakthroughs have led to advancements like IVF, cancer screenings, and genome editing. However, ethical questions remain when it comes to synthetic embryos.

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And Also...This

Where rescue efforts are continuing…

Greece. Yesterday, at least 79 people drowned after a large boat carrying migrants sank off the coast of Greece. More than 100 people have been rescued. The UN migration agency estimated up to 400 people were on board, and it’s believed they were traveling from Libya to Italy. This marks the deadliest shipwreck off the country’s coast this year. Authorities expect the death toll to rise as search and rescue operations continue. The number of migrants crossing the Mediterranean is at its highest level since the 2015 refugee crisis. Many are escaping poverty and conflict.

Who people are remembering…

Jordan Neely. Yesterday, a grand jury reportedly indicted 24-year-old Daniel Penny on second-degree manslaughter charges in Neely’s death. Last month, 30-year-old Neely — who was experiencing homelessness and mental illness — died after Penny placed him in a chokehold on an NYC subway train. Penny, a former Marine, maintains he was acting in self-defense. Neely’s death sparked protests across the country when Penny wasn’t immediately arrested or charged. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office is reportedly expected to officially announce the indictment today.

What's hearing a record scratch...

Twitter. Yesterday, 17 music publishers sued the social media company for its alleged copyright infringement of over 1,500 songs. The publishers — which represent artists like Rihanna and Taylor Swift — claimed Twitter “handsomely” profited by allowing its users to post unlicensed music. Now, the group of publishers is seeking more than $250 million in damages. Twitter has not commented on the lawsuit.

Who’s hitting the ‘veto’ button…

President Biden. Yesterday, he vetoed legislation that would’ve rolled back an EPA rule that set strict emissions standards for heavy-duty vehicles. It’s not likely that Congress will be able to override Biden's veto.

While Beyoncé is boosting inflation in some parts of the world…

The Federal Reserve is hitting pause at home.

What’s officially no longer America's top beer…

Bud Light.

What shouldn't count as a personal item on planes…

This microscopic Louis Vuitton replica bag.

Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. Perfect-for-summer shoes that keep breaking the internet.

These celeb- and HQ’r-loved sneakers are so comfy, they’ve racked up over 40K five-star reviews. They’re also eco-friendly, available in 15+ colors, and 20% off for a limited time with code SKIMM20.*

Go, go, go

2. The return of epic adventure, fierce battles, and plenty of romance.

That’s right, “Outlander” is back. And season seven will answer allll of our burning questions. It’s everything we’ve been waiting for, and so much more. The first episode drops tomorrow, only on STARZ.*

Get a sneak peek

3. An easy way to prioritize your mental health.

BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed therapist who’s right for you. Just fill out the quiz and get matched in as little as 48 hours. PS: Skimmr's get $50 off their first month with code SKIMM.*

Put you first

4. An e-bike that’ll help you live out your main character dreams this summer.

The world’s leading certified e-bike provider can help you get top-notch brands for up to — wait for it — 60% off retail. Oh, and you can snag $100 off with code SKIMM.*

Ride on

Psst...looking for more discounts on brands Skimm'rs love? Check out all of our exclusive promo codes here.

On Our Radar

It’s been one year since Aussie Bubs, the trusted Australia-based formula brand, launched Operation Fly Formula to help Americans during the US shortage. Now you can find it on shelves across the country. Learn more.*

Skimm'rs

We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.

One seed at a time…Myranda G (NY). She left her 9 to 5 job to start her own farm. It offers therapeutic programs to veterans and donates organic, locally grown produce to community organizations. Find out more.

(Some) Birthdays…theSkimm's Melissa Goldberg (NY), Chloe Himmel (DC), Allison Labovitz (GA), Danielle Blazek (IL), Stacy McDowell (FL), Breana Rosenbaum (TX), Mary Nell Williams (GA), Kara Pernice (MA), Divyanka Pillai (WA), Brianna Stevens (CA), Jennifer Tachell (ID), Cara Marie Peppers (MO), Antonella Van (NY), Amber Redmond (PA), Emily Drake (GA)

PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.