How mosquitoes — and malaria — helped shape the whereabouts of early humankind
NPR News·60-word summary·1 min read
A new study suggests that mosquitoes and malaria significantly influenced early human migration and settlement patterns. The research highlights how the presence of malaria, transmitted by mosquitoes, impacted where ancient humans settled, shaping their evolutionary and migratory paths. While specific dates and figures are not provided, the findings underscore the role of disease in human history and movement.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced on April 18, 2026, that only one individual has received President Trump’s $1 million “Gold Card” visa, which provides an expedited route to U.S. citizenship. He stated that hundreds are currently waiting for approval, highlighting the limited number of approvals so far. The program remains in its early stages with minimal recipients.
Senators Katie Britt and John Fetterman have warned about the risks of inaction on social media regulation, citing concerns over mental health impacts on youth. They co-sponsored bills to establish guardrails, emphasizing the need to protect the next generation. The senators highlighted the urgency of implementing measures to address these issues, though specific amounts or dates were not provided.
Senators Katie Britt and John Fetterman have co-sponsored bills to establish social media guardrails for young people, citing concerns over mental health impacts. They emphasized the urgency of action to protect the next generation from potential harms associated with social media use. The senators highlighted the need for regulatory measures to address these issues, though no specific legislation details were provided.
A former North Carolina law enforcement officer was arrested in Florida for threatening to carry out a mass shooting at a New Orleans festival. Christopher Gillum, 44, was detained without incident while en route to the event, authorities confirmed. The arrest follows threats made online and at a hotel, prompting heightened security measures.
Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.) stated he is not focusing on his reelection bid less than seven months before the midterms. He made the comment on April 17 on the Capitol steps, amid discussions of a recent Democratic-backed redistricting initiative in Virginia. Van Orden’s remarks suggest a lack of emphasis on his campaign as political tensions rise ahead of the 2026 elections.
The Crypto-aligned Fellowship PAC has spent $1.75 million supporting Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the upcoming May runoff against Senator John Cornyn. This significant investment highlights the growing influence of crypto-related political funding in key U.S. elections. The race is closely watched as crypto interests seek to shape political outcomes in Texas.