A recent KFF poll highlights a significant level of skepticism among Americans regarding former President Donald Trump’s claims that Tylenol is associated with autism in newborns. Conducted after Trump’s comments in the Oval Office on September 22, the survey found that 77 percent of the respondents had heard of the claim, yet only about 35 percent believed it. A mere 4 percent of the 1,334 adults surveyed deemed the assertion ‘definitely true.’ In contrast, 35 percent regarded it as ‘definitely false,’ while 60 percent expressed uncertainty, equally divided between believing the claim was ‘probably true’ or ‘probably false.’
The results of this poll underscored a pronounced partisan divide. Among Democrats, a substantial 59 percent dismissed the Tylenol claim as definitely false, while only 12 percent of Republicans shared this sentiment. Interestingly, half of all GOP voters thought the assertion could be ‘probably true.’
The KFF poll also pointed towards a concerning decline in the public’s trust in health institutions. Trust in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has dropped to 50 percent, marking its lowest level since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a notable 24-point fall among Democrats since 2023.
In another recent Gallup poll, the approval ratings of several federal agencies have significantly decreased under Trump’s leadership. Agencies like FEMA, the CIA, the CDC, the FDA, the EPA, and the IRS have seen their ratings hit rock bottom, some rated the lowest since Gallup began compiling this data in 2003. Out of the 15 agencies assessed from 2024 to 2025, only the Department of Homeland Security has witnessed an uptick in public approval. The United States Postal Service remains the only government entity with favorable ratings above 50 percent.
The survey results revealed a substantial partisan shift in perceptions, where Republicans generally feel that services have improved, while Democrats express the opposite sentiment. Across the board, support for FEMA, the EPA, and the CDC has drastically dwindled among all party affiliations. Currently, fewer than 35 percent of voters have a favorable view of the State Department, the FAA, the Justice Department, the Federal Reserve Board, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
As skepticism continues to grow regarding health claims, many Americans embark on various personal projects to maintain their well-being. One such venture is the Tonal 2, an innovative home gym system created to assist individuals in their strength training journey. This all-in-one fitness solution focuses on progressive overload, training to failure, and ensuring proper form during workouts.
Progressive overload refers to gradually increasing weights to stimulate muscle growth. The Tonal 2 simplifies this process by adjusting resistance in precise one-pound increments, ensuring that each lift remains challenging. It also features smart drop sets, automatically reducing the weight as users tire, enabling them to push their limits and build muscle more effectively, as claimed by Tonal.
Proper technique is vital for progress, as poor form can lead to injuries and hinder results. The Tonal 2 incorporates an advanced camera system that analyzes users’ movements and offers real-time feedback on their form, acting almost like a virtual personal trainer. Following workouts, the system provides summaries with clips that highlight areas for improvement.
Beyond strength training, the Tonal 2 offers 15 additional workout modalities, including yoga and mobility exercises, promoting variety in fitness routines and helping to keep users engaged.
In a cultural note, the film industry is abuzz with the news that Saoirse Ronan will play Linda McCartney in Sam Mendes’ upcoming cinematic series on The Beatles. Along with Ronan, the cast includes Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, and Joseph Quinn as George Harrison. Each film will focus on one of the iconic Beatles, slated to release in 2028.
Meanwhile, notable stories of heroism surfaced recently, such as the story of an elderly woman who fell while walking her dog in Destin, Florida. Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Devon Miller found her after the dog, Eeyore, led him to her location, demonstrating the loyalty and resourcefulness of pets in times of need.
As the nation navigates these pressing health discussions and moments of inspiration, the varying perspectives reveal a complex societal landscape marked by both skepticism and hope.