The New York Times

Our July 4 bash was troubled, and America may go the way of the Ghaznavid Empire. But here are reasons to be more positive.

Readers react to the implosion of Mr. Platner’s campaign for the Senate from Maine. Also: President Trump and one man’s happiness.

If activists are speaking up, why aren’t celebrities? According to Molly Jong-Fast, there’s value to performative politics. Especially when they dominate the algorithm.

Behind closed doors, millions of Americans are stepping into one of the hardest roles they’ll ever take on: caring for their aging parents.