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NORTH AMERICA
UNITED STATES
Enrique Eguiguren, Senior Reporter
Politics: As Obama era politicians and staff members are ousted to be replaced with those of new president Donald Trump, many have begun running for office, in part to oppose the politics of the new president and his party.
Economics: While a booming stock market, increasing economic growth, and decreasing unemployment rates may seem to indicate the US is doing well, a recent report by the Federal Reserve shows the instability of the American people, with 40% of Americans incapable of producing $400 if an emergency cost were to occur, and over a quarter of adults missing important medical care due to lacking the money to get it. This is thought to be the result of stagnant (and low) wages as well as decreasing purchasing power, as the minimum wage does not change fast enough to catch up with rising inflation.
Culture: Facing fierce competition from fellow Disney property “The Avengers: Infinity War” as well as another comic book movie “Deadpool 2”, “Solo: A Star Wars Story” has struggled with meeting the expectations set for it as a summer blockbuster and Star Wars film, with many criticizing the film as being mediocre and unnecessary.
CANADA
Enrique Eguiguren, Senior Reporter
Politics: As a part of an effort to increase the size of the Canadian military, the department of defense is considering loosening restrictions on allowing unskilled foreign recruits into the army.
Economics: The Canadian dollar has continued to decrease in value compared to the US dollar, however it is possible that the Bank of Canada will increase interest rates in July, thereby raising the Canadian dollar’s value.
Culture: Evidence appears to show that a pair of gifts the government of Canada sent to the Prime Minister and attorney general of New Zealand were deliberately sabotaged and broken beyond repair, although the suspect and motivations are currently unknown.
MEXICO
Enrique Eguiguren, Senior Reporter
Politics: Mexico recently had its second presidential debate between the four frontrunner candidates: Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, Ricardo Anaya, Jose Antonio Meade, and Jaime Rodriguez. The debate included their positions on security, the minimum wage, and Mexico’s relationship with the United States.
Economics: Mexico’s economy has shown significant growth in its Q1 2018 reports, as it hit its highest rate of increase in 6th quarters. The growth has been attributed by analyst to recovering industrial production as well as an increase in the price of oil.
Culture: The wife of powerful cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, (also known as “El Mencho”) was recently arrested by the Mexican marines, who also caught Gerardo Botello Rosales, (or “El Cachas), from the same gang, both of whom were top leaders under El Mencho.