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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

WI voter hopes Biden speech leads to more meaningful discourse

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Friday, March 8, 2024   

From the economy to humanitarian aid, President Joe Biden touched on many topics in last night's State of the Union address. With attention now back to the presidential race, a Wisconsin voter hopes policy, not political drama, is the focus.

Biden has been scrutinized over such factors as his age in his bid for a second term, with supporters noting his likely opponent, former President Donald Trump, isn't much younger.

Diana Valencia, a retiree from Racine, said the horse-race coverage often distracts from issues of substance. Valencia, who has voted for both Republicans and Democrats and now supports Biden, said she wants direct talk.

"I expect a responsible person in a political position to give me facts," she said, "and explain to me - as a nation, what are we supposed to do to make things possible."

For example, she said she wants to hear more about the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that came together on Biden's watch, noting it's spurring public works projects in her community. Biden has visited states such as Wisconsin to tout the law. However, some national polling indicates voters are largely unaware of the policy, and other polling indicates voters are unenthused about a Biden-Trump rematch.

Valencia stressed that she strongly values democracy. She encouraged her fellow voters to look past media-driven narratives about the presidential race and foster more conversations between themselves about the issues that affect the nation.

"We the people cannot be silent anymore," she said.

Immigration reform is expected to remain a top issue in this year's election. Valencia said she wants Biden to not lose sight of expanding work visas for undocumented individuals in any border security deal. That was part of a recent compromise plan in Congress, ultimately shelved following resistance from House Republicans. Political observers say that pushback originated from Trump, who has made immigration a key part of his campaign.


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