Breaking Precedent

A showdown in Ohio. [For the best experience, read in browser.]( August 8, 2023 A crucial vote is happening in Ohio today that could change the state's democracy. We explain what you need to know below. We’ve also got [Ron DeSantis’ latest comments about Trump]( and whether he’s backpedaling his support for the former president. Then, with all the conversations about childhood trauma happening right now, we asked a family therapist [how to move on from the past](. Later, we’re sharing [snackable exercises from my Pilates instructor, Ashley Patten]( and snackable snacks with [Rachael Ray’s kettle corn recipe](. Read on!   In the News [dark image of someone voting at a ballot booth](katiecouric.com) Getty Images Breaking Precedent A controversial special election in Ohio is taking place today, and if the Republican-controlled state legislature has its way, it will radically minimize the voting power of Ohioans. Here’s what you need to know: Destroying precedent: For over a century, Ohio residents have had the power to propose constitutional amendments if they can get enough signatures, and vote those amendments into law with majority support on the ballot. A new proposal from the state legislature will eradicate this historic process. High standards: The new measure, Issue 1, would require 60% support on a bill, instead of the current 50%. Plus, instead of requiring signatures from half of the state’s counties, the law would require signatures from all of the counties. These requirements essentially guarantee the power of a minority rule, lawmakers say. Bad timing: It’s not a coincidence that this is taking place a few months before Ohioans were scheduled to vote on an amendment that would enshrine the right to an abortion within the state constitution. The proposal's been met with a bipartisan outcry across the country. Former Ohio Governor John Kasich, a Republican, has condemned the measure, saying in a recent joint letter with another former Ohio governor that it “isn’t right.” He added, “Ohio is stronger when we can all lend our voices and we all have an equal chance to participate in the work of our state’s democracy.”   More Stories [Sandra Bullock with her late partner, Bryan Randall]( Getty Images Taken too soon: Bryan Randall, Sandra Bullock’s longtime partner, is dead at 57, his family revealed yesterday. "It is with great sadness that we share that on Aug. 5, Bryan Randall passed away peacefully after a three-year battle with ALS," they said. "Bryan chose early to keep his journey with ALS private and those of us who cared for him did our best to honor his request." His family asked for privacy, and Bullock hasn’t commented yet. Tipping point: July was so hot that it gave the planet a glimpse of the critical 1.5 threshold of global warming — the point scientists have warned we [must stay below to preserve life as we know it](. This comes alongside the news that nearly 400,000 people across the Eastern U.S. are still without power following thunderstorms that left at least two people dead, and an intense marine heat wave is persisting off the West Coast. Trump latest: A judge has tossed out Donald Trump's counterclaim against Jean E. Carroll, finding that her persistent claim that he raped her is "substantially true" (Carroll won a $5 million suit against him for battery and defamation earlier this year). Meanwhile, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has finally acknowledged Trump’s defeat in the 2020 election. “Of course, he lost,” he told NBC News. In the same breath, he also criticized the way the election was run and defended the former president over his legal troubles. Here’s where his fellow [2024 rivals stand on Trump’s indictments.]( A grim echo: The teenage cousin of the shooter who [slaughtered nineteen children and two adults at Robb Elementary School]( in Uvalde, Texas last year has been arrested after his mother reported that he was threatening to "do the same thing." Nathan James Cruz, 17, is charged with making a terrorist threat to a public place and making a terrorist threat against a family member. His mother also notified the police that he was trying to buy a gun.   Must-Reads [Jill Martin wears a purple blouse with a bow on teh collar]( “Earth-Shattering” Event After her double mastectomy, TODAY contributor Jill Martin is opening up about her fight with stage 2 breast cancer. [Read More »]( [Illustration of woman walking into clouds]( Change in Perspective This might sound like a hot take, but menopause doesn’t have to be something you dread. Here’s how to make the most of this transition. [Read More »]( [Illustration of child being controlled by puppet strings and a hand above]( Real Talk A new study is shedding light on childhood trauma, which reminded me of my convo with Terry Real about overcoming your upbringing. [Read More »](   Extra Credit Loosen up: When that midday slump hits, don’t reach for another coffee — get up and get moving! [Ashley Patten’s exercise snacks]( help fight stiffness from sitting. Pop of flavor: Got a hankering for a snack that’s salty and sweet? [Rachael Ray’s kettle corn recipe]( will satisfy both your cravings. Flash sale: Need to update your summer wardrobe ASAP? You’re in luck: Madewell is offering [30% off dresses, sandals, and bags]( with code BUILDAFIT. This deal includes sale items, but don’t take too long to decide — it only lasts through today.   Sale Away [Wayfair rug and patio furniture on teal background]( It's time to celebrate! [Wayfair’s Anniversary Sale]( kicks off today, with great deals up to 70% until 8/15. Spruce up your abode with [washable rugs](, [outdoor furniture](, and every home need in between. [SHOP THE SALE](   [Know it all, and help your friends catch up, too. Share Wake-Up Call and you'll earn some superb swag.]( Thank you 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 © 2023 Katie Couric Media, All rights reserved.