"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will heal their land."

Shuyi Chen, University of Washington professor of atmospheric and climate science, reflecting on navigating turbulence in both science and politics. Chen made the remarks as the Trump administration moves to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research, a federally supported hub that provides aircraft, supercomputing power and data used by scientists nationwide. Officials have criticized the center as promoting “climate alarmism,” but Chen and other researchers say it is critical for forecasting hurricanes, wildfires and atmospheric rivers, and for helping governments and businesses prepare for increasingly extreme weather events. (The Seattle Times)

Dr. Mehmet Oz, the administrator of the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, calling for nationwide action on Medicaid oversight. Oz made the remark while announcing that the federal government will require all 50 states to submit plans to revalidate Medicaid providers within 30 days, expanding anti-fraud efforts beyond previously targeted states. He emphasized that both Republican- and Democratic-led states will be held accountable, with the possibility of stricter federal audits for those that fail to comply. (Stateline)

Rachel Richter, an urban wildlife biologist for Texas Parks and Wildlife, describing the unexplained behavior of egrets and herons nesting in residential neighborhoods instead of nearby parks or wetlands. Richter made the remark as North Texas communities try to deter large flocks that bring noise, waste and health concerns. Despite the presence of suitable green spaces nearby, the birds continue returning to suburban trees to roost, a pattern scientists still can’t fully explain, even as development reshapes their habitat. (Union-Bulletin)

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, pushing back on a federal request for voter data. Nessel made the remark after the U.S. Department of Justice sought ballots and election materials from Wayne County, citing alleged voter fraud. Michigan officials called the request baseless and politically motivated, noting the cited cases were already addressed and emphasizing that existing safeguards have proven effective in protecting election integrity. (Michigan Advance)