The Atlantic explores what Joe Manchin’s ”no” on the giant spending bill means for Biden’s economic agenda. Democrats in Georgia helped flip the U.S. Senate and turn the state blue. Politico reports on how Republican state lawmakers are trying to dilute those gains. The Omicron coronavirus variant is spreading. The Wall Street Journal explains how to decide whether to change your holiday travel plans because of COVID. A Pulitzer Prize–winning science reporter canceled his 40th birthday party because of the Omicron variant. He writes in the Atlantic about how he came to the decision. Electric cars are expected to be a part of reducing global carbon emissions. But mining the nickel needed for their batteries can itself be very environmentally damaging. NBC News has the story. A Deadspin writer explains why he’s outraged that the New York Giants’ Fan Appreciation Day gift was a medium-sized fountain drink.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.