Environmental reporter for the Press-Register in Mobile, Alabama
Ben Raines on KCRW
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In search of the secret animal highways beneath our roads
EnvironmentCaltrans is working to retrofit some of its highway underpasses to make it easier for wildlife to cross the road, benefiting biodiversity across the state.
Defaulted on student loans? Can you repay them?
EducationThe U.S. Department of Education has announced that the collection of past-due student loans will resume on May 5. How will this affect your financial reality?
Trump tries to tariff the US to greatness — will it work?
PoliticsThe president reversed course on his tariff plan hours after it took effect. Can he bring back the nostalgic economic prosperity voters desire?
First American pope, threats to funding for NPR stations
ReligionIn his first speech from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV – a 69-year-old Chicago native – shared a message of peace. He is the first American pope.
‘Unconscionable:’ Local mayor blasts federal troops in LA
ImmigrationHuntington Park Mayor Arturo Flores talks about the immigration raids in his city and decries the use of the National Guard and U.S. Marines amid protests.
Democrats fight Trump agenda, Russia seeds AI with misinfo
PoliticsHecklers at a recent town hall accused Congresswoman Laura Friedman of not fighting hard enough against the Trump administration. She says she understands the frustration.
Are ICE raids, protests turning immigration attitudes upside down?
PoliticsWill the protests over the National Guard hurt Trump politically? Plus, will the “Big, Beautiful Bill’s” unpopularity on Wall Street keep it from passing?
Anger over ICE raids could shift Latino voters away from Republicans
ImmigrationA series of ICE raids across Southern California could take away Republicans’ momentum among Latino voters.
Why are Republicans so far apart on a new tax bill?
PoliticsCracks within the GOP turn the “Big, Beautiful Bill” into a mess. President Trump visits the Middle East. Plus, Democrats’ past and future collide.