Laura Belin is an openly liberal journalist in Iowa who has long been shut out by state Republican officials. Now she’s being bypassed by Democrats who favor friendly internet influencers.

The new government, led by Andy Burnham, aimed to lower household and business bills amid higher interest rates and a turbulent global economy.

© Hannah Mckay/Reuters

The average cost of a 100-piece bag has jumped 71 percent in the last five years. Consumers are thinking twice about what they’ll spend.

© Swikar Patel for The New York Times

As exuberance around the technology stokes fears of a bubble, the nation’s public pensions are starting to grapple with their role — and their risks.

© Matt Chase