Rising Star

A conversation with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. [For the best experience, read in browser.]( [Wake-Up Call] [by Katie Couric Media] July 11, 2024 Good morning. We’re sharing the first in my interview series with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer[,]( in which she discusses [her thoughts on a future presidential bid](, and we're tracking [the latest Democratic lawmakers to express doubt]( in President Biden’s candidacy. Later on, we’ll share [yoga moves to ease back aches]( (and if your bra is the culprit, try [these supportive options](). All that, plus [how to make my favorite summer sandwich](, right this way!   In the News [Katie Couric and Gretchen Whitmer]( Photo by Nick Tininenko Next Question Long before last month’s debate prompted calls to replace President Biden, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer had already been floated as a possible presidential contender. But in [an exclusive interview for my podcast](, she said she’s not considering that possibility, even as her national recognition soars. “The truth is I'm not thinking about [a presidential campaign] right now,” she said. “I've got two-and-a-half more years of being governor. We have to get through this crucial election. There’s a lot of work that I want to get done.” While this conversation took place before the debate that forced the Biden campaign into survival mode, it nonetheless provides an illuminating look at the rising political star and her future within the Democratic Party. In the first of a three-part series, here’s a closer look at why she’s backing Biden and [who she says is part of the “deep bench” of future Democratic leaders.]( [READ MORE]( PASS THIS STORY ALONG: mailto:?subject=Check%20out%20this%20story%20from%20Wake-Up%20Call%21&body=https%3A%2F%2Fkatiecouric.com%2Fpodcast%2Fnext-question%2Fwill-gretchen-whitmer-run-for-president-support-biden   More Stories [Hilaria {NAME} leans in to comfort Alec {NAME} during his hearing.]( Hilaria {NAME} leans in to comfort Alec {NAME} during the hearing. (Getty Images) In her opening arguments, the prosecutor in Alec {NAME}’s [involuntary manslaughter case]( said he'd played “make believe with a real gun” on the Rust set, and was filmed "running around, shooting” during safety training. The defense claimed the gun was “cold” - ie, safe, when {NAME} used it. Footage broadcast by Al Jazeera has shown the moment an Israeli airstrike wrought devastation on the al-Awda school in Gaza on Tuesday. The attack occurred as children were playing football in the playground, and left at least 29 people dead. The death of a student at Dartmouth College is being investigated as a possible hazing incident. Won Jang’s fraternity, Beta Alpha Omega, and a sorority were suspended after the 20-year-old’s body was discovered in the Connecticut River. Costco is raising its membership fee for the first time in seven years. From September 1, its Gold Star membership will go from $60 to $65, with the Executive membership jumping from $120 to $130. U.S. men's national soccer coach Gregg Berhalter has been fired after the team failed in the first round of the Copa America tournament. "We must do better,” U.S. Soccer technical director Matt Crocker said.   On the Record "I love Joe Biden. As a senator. As a vice president and as president. I consider him a friend, and I believe in him. [But] we are not going to win in November with this president." George Clooney called for Biden to exit the presidential race in [an unflinching op-ed for the New York Times](. He’s just one of the high-profile Democrats who’ve urged the president to drop out — and while he's not an elected official, he is a big fundraiser. Here's a list of [the lawmakers calling for a new nominee — including the first Democratic senator to do so.](   Weeknight Wonder [Chicken tacos]( KCM You know that sinking feeling when you leave the office and realize you have no clue what to whip up for dinner? We've cooked up a delicious solution: [this easy-to-make taco recipe]( that's guaranteed to please the whole family and can be put together in just minutes with the help of Ben's Original Ready Rice. Need a quick tutorial? Bravo's Top Chef contestant Nick Wallace showed us exactly how it's done. [DIG IN]( [Supported by Ben's Original](   The Doctor Is In We're gearing up to talk with an expert about Ozempic and other medications that have skyrocketed in popularity as aids for weight loss — and we want to bring them your questions! [Drop us a line here](mailto:ask@katiecouric.com?subject=Weight loss medication) to share what you'd like us to ask about how these drugs work, their side effects, and more. We'll share the answers in an upcoming edition of Body and Soul, so [subscribe here (for free!)]( to make sure you don't miss it.   Extra Credit [Katie Couric on background of tomatoes]( KCM Best thing since sliced bread: During hot, lazy days like the ones we've been having lately, I like to whip up [my favorite summer sandwich](. It's unbelievably simple, with ingredients you probably already have in the fridge, and oh-so refreshing. Going Strong: Dealing with back pain is the worst. Good thing yoga can help! Try [this 13-minute flow]( to stretch out those sore muscles. In Your Feelings: Supporting a loved one through hard times can be tough. How do you avoid saying the wrong thing — and what should you do? Dr. Samantha Boardman shares tips on [how to comfort someone](. Close to the chest: Finding a supportive bra, especially in a larger cup size, can be a real struggle. We hunted down [15 comfortable bras for larger chests](.   Sale Away [Navy blue one-piece, white crocs, and Shark Roomba vacuum]( KCM Amazon Prime Day is still days away, but if you're itching to take advantage of deep discounts, [Walmart's sale is not to be missed](. Think discounted vacuums from [Dyson]( and [Shark](, incredible [tech steals]( from Apple, Samsung, and FitBit, plus incredible women's fashion finds like [flattering swimsuits]( and [trendy Crocs](. Today's the last day to shop this blockbuster sale event, so don't wait! [EXPLORE NOW](   [Ripple Effect by Katie Couric Media]( Thanks for reading Wake-Up Call and being part of our community! If you have questions or comments, drop us a line at info@katiecouric.com. See you tomorrow! [Alternate text] Update your preferences or [unsubscribe]( If you buy something through this email, KCM may earn a commission. Katie Couric Media, 75 Varick St, Ste 12, New York, NY - 10013-1917 Copyright © 2024 Katie Couric Media, All rights reserved.