A high-ranking official from the federal agency that oversees personnel for President Donald Trump's administration has reportedly spoken out against the U.S. airstrikes on Iran, calling the move "pointless."

Andrew Kloster, a general counsel member at the Office of Personnel Management, criticized the strike in a series of now-deleted posts on X, according to the New York Post. His message directly contradicts President Trump's claim that the mission targeting Iran's nuclear facilities was a success.

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Andrew Kloster's Now-Deleted Posts

"I apologize and will never again doubt the power of the deep state," Kloster wrote following the attack on Saturday, June 21. When another X user suggested, "Iran's nuclear sites being crushed seems a long-term benefit for the US," Kloster responded candidly, "I think it was just kind of pointless."

He also reportedly reposted a message from Vish Burra, the former director of operations for ex-Rep. George Santos. In the post, Burra described the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict as a "tribal squabble" following Tehran's violation of the ceasefire.

President Donald Trump's Agenda

Kloster's posts have since been deleted, but the controversy surrounding his message hasn't gone away. His public criticism comes as a surprise given his senior role, especially considering the administration's ongoing efforts to enforce Trump's "Schedule F" — aimed at ensuring federal employees align with the president's agenda.

Back in April, Trump emphasized that government workers must "be held to the highest standards of conduct and performance," adding that anyone who fails to support his policies or engages in corrupt behavior "should no longer have a job."

Kloster isn't the only one who has been wary of Trump's attack on Iran. His comments align with other Americans who worry that the United States' involvement could lead to a prolonged conflict in the Middle East.

However, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has asked the country to "trust in Trump," claiming that he will secure "peace through strength." Following the United States' direct involvement, Trump brokered a ceasefire between Iran and Israel. The agreement was later broken by both parties, prompting condemnation from the president.

Oil prices rose on Wednesday, June 25, following the ceasefire between Iran and Israel. After taking a sharp drop earlier this week, prices climbed roughly 2% as markets regained confidence amid easing tensions. 

Brent crude futures, the global benchmark, rose $1.22, or 1.8%, to $68.36 a barrel by 12:50 p.m. EDT. Meanwhile, U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude increased $1.25, or 1.9%, to $65.62. The latest rise may reflect investors' optimism that the ceasefire could bring some stability between the two foreign adversaries. 

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Peace Deal Lowers Fears

On Tuesday, June 24, President Donald Trump announced the peace agreement between the nations, but Brent still settled at its lowest level since early June, while WTI dropped to its lowest since June 5. Prices had been rising following Israel's June 13 airstrikes on Iranian military leaders and nuclear facilities. After a U.S. follow-up strike on Iran's nuclear infrastructure, crude prices rose to a five-month high.

"While concerns regarding Middle Eastern supply have diminished for now, they have not entirely disappeared, and there remains a stronger demand for immediate supply," ING analysts noted in a client report. 

Beyond looking at oil prices, U.S. gasoline stocks also saw some fluctuation. Inventories fell by 2.1 million barrels, way more than the expected 381,000-barrel increase.

Forecasts for Oil Prices

"We are looking at big draws across the board," Phil Flynn, senior analyst with the Price Futures Group said. "This type of report can refocus on U.S. supply and demand, and less on geopolitics."

Adding to the mix, new U.S. economic data released on Tuesday, June 24, showed weaker-than-expected consumer confidence, hinting at a possible slowdown in the country's economy. Because of this, many now expect the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates later this year, which could affect oil demand and prices.

Looking ahead, oil prices are expected to stay between $65 and $70 a barrel, according to market analyst Tina Teng, as traders wait for more economic updates and the Fed's next decision.

The tension between former "first buddy" Elon Musk and Donald Trump continues to escalate, as the Tesla CEO is now making damaging accusations against a top White House aide. In his most recent outburst, Musk slammed Director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office Sergio Gor, whom the tech tycoon branded a "snake."

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According to the New York Post, Gor was frequently mentioned in articles explaining Trump and Musk's abrupt falling out. The outlet reported Gor was the brains behind Trump's "revenge tour" against the father of 14, who accused the director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office of sabotaging his NASA nomination.

According to The Post, Gor has claimed he is from Malta, but the country has no record of his birth: "No acts are registered with the provided details," the nation shared.

Igor Sushko — a Ukraine-born American race-car driver and political activist — claimed on X that people familiar with Gor in Malta often refer to him as "the Russian boy."

In response to Suhsko's thread, Musk alleged, "Gor is breaking the law."

Musk later corrected Gor's name to "Goryachev" — a reference to rumors online that Gor is actually a Russian spy named Sergey Goryachev. The conspiracy theory has been proven to be false, as the real Goryachev has been identified.

CNBC anchor Joe Kernen compared New York City mayoral hopeful Zohran Mamdani to a Batman villain. After the progressive politician's massive win over Andrew Cuomo in the primaries, the journalist referenced the 2012 film The Dark Knight Rises to express his fears over Mamdani potentially running Manhattan.

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"If you've seen what Batman is up against in Gotham and what the guy running for mayor is up against, that's what it reminds me of," the media personality said of the situation during a recent broadcast. "They're taking Wallstreeters and making them walk out onto the ice in the East River, in hope and then they fall through. There is a class warfare that's going on."

Kernen cited the 33-year-old's leftist policies and compared them to the action movie villain Bane's seizure of Gotham City. In the flick, the character says, "We take Gotham from the corrupt! The rich! The oppressors of generations who have kept you down with myths of opportunity. And we give it to you, the people."

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While the comic book supervillain keeps control over the city, Jonathan Crane, a.k.a. the Scarecrow (Cillian Murphy), presents each of the community's wealthy residents with a choice to die or walk out onto the ice of Gotham Harbor in exile.

Despite the fearmongering from the reporter, Mamdani has vowed to impose higher taxes on the wealthy in order to freeze rent prices. The member of the New York State Assembly has also promised to start government-run grocery stores, free bus rides and childcare.

"I think there's a question of how we return back to what made so many of us proud to be Democrats," the mayoral hopeful — who is a self-described Democratic Socialist — explained in a recent interview. "I think it's that focus on an economic agenda, on ensuring that people can do more than just struggle."

President Donald Trump's administration is potentially taking steps to lift a full ban on asbestos — the cancer-causing mineral linked to tens of thousands of deaths each year.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reconsidering the ban put in place by former President Joe Biden. During a federal appeals court hearing on Monday, June 23, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the agency is re-examining the rule.

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According to a court declaration obtained by the Associated Press, the EPA argues that Biden's ban may have gone "beyond what is necessary to eliminate the unreasonable risk and whether alternative measures — such as requiring permanent workplace protection measures — would eliminate the unreasonable risk."

Asbestos, which can cause mesothelioma and other cancers, has been mostly phased out in the U.S. Still, in 2024, the Biden administration implemented a complete ban on asbestos. At the time, the EPA reportedly called the move a historic step forward in the fight against cancer.

Zeldin's remarks sparked backlash online, with many users on X expressing their shock over the potential unbanning.

In a court filing, the EPA said it will review the ban over the next 30 months as it considers reversing the decision.

Chrysotile asbestos is found in products like brake blocks, sheet gaskets and asbestos diaphragms. It was banned under the Toxic Substances Control Act, which was expanded in 2016.

At the time of the ban, eight U.S. facilities in the chlor-alkali industry still used asbestos diaphragms to manufacture chlorine and sodium hydroxide. Those facilities were given at least five years to phase out asbestos.

While some leaders have spoken out about the investigation, the American Chemistry Council said it supports the EPA's action, emphasizing the importance of "a risk-based approach consistent with the best available science."

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When celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Jennifer Aniston and Gwyneth Paltrow endorsed NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) IV drips as part of their respective healthcare routines, most people followed blindly. With mere social media posts, they catapulted this relatively unknown medication into mainstream popularity. But amidst those aesthetically pleasing pictures, memorized benefits and expensive IV drips, a question arises: Is there genuine science behind the present NAD+ boost hype or is this another health trap?

While celebrities spend a lot on IV drips, the innovative company Holivita, part of the Holiverse group, is preparing to launch a technology that will accurately reveal whether you personally really need NAD+ or not. Or maybe you do, but in a totally different form. How will they figure it out? By analyzing your DNA.

We will discuss this further below, but first, let's better understand what NAD+ is really.

The $750 Molecule Mystery

Nicotinamide adenine nucleotide (NAD+) is an essential coenzyme found in every cell of the body, playing an important role in various metabolic processes. It acts as a helper molecule, particularly crucial for energy production, maintaining cellular health and DNA repair, according to studies. Extensive research conducted in decades by reputable scientific institutions all say that natural NAD+ levels decline with age, with most people experiencing a dramatic 40-50% drop by age 50. This age-related decline affects energy production, cellular repair and overall metabolic function.

At the same time, scientific evidence on the real-world effectiveness of NAD+ as an anti-aging medication in humans is limited and is based on rather anecdotal evidence.

According to Dr. Dmitry Chebanov, PhD, a computational biologist and top health expert at Holiverse, the issue with NAD+ drips is the molecule itself: "NAD+ in its pure form just doesn't get absorbed by the body — it breaks down before it gets to the cells. Celebrities pay thousands of dollars for a procedure that isn't scientifically proven to work."

When Celebrities Become Your Doctor

For a significant number of people, especially the affluent, the appeal of NAD+ IV drips is immensely noticeable and compelling. Most users claim it has a plethora of benefits, including, but not limited to, improved cognitive function, mental clarity, anti-aging effects, reduction in systemic inflammation and restorative sleep patterns.

This anecdotal evidence, replete with newfound vigor, has resonated with thousands of people globally. Hailey Bieber has been very vocal about the IV drips, including those containing NAD+, and has documented her journey on Instagram. In fact, on an episode of the popular show The Kardashians, Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner took IV drips containing NAD+ boosters, with the former telling her millions of followers that "she's doing it for the rest of her life." This, according to lifestyle and entertainment magazines, spiked interest in NAD+ boosters globally.

Critics have continuously pointed to the lack of long-term studies confirming the safety and efficacy of such procedures, and most outrightly claim that their effectiveness may be grossly exaggerated for marketing purposes. Also, there have been numerous legal cases involving the FDA and the National Products Association on issues surrounding NAD+. Regardless of the legal standing, doctors and specialists are still divided on what form of NAD+ is optimal, how it can be effectively administered for maximum absorption and whether it is safe at all.

The Plot Twist in Your DNA

With no real scientific evidence to back up the claims of NAD+ being efficient in age reversal, among other things, Holivita steps in as an antidote to the prevalent one-size-fits-all approach of modern medicine.

Holivita's approach is quite different from what is typically done in the wellness industry today. Instead of selling you the latest trendy molecule for $750 per session, the system first checks if you really need it and what other options might work for you, using personalized medical-grade questionnaires, DNA analysis and any extra health data that you can upload if you wish.

A specially trained AI matches your data with all the scientific knowledge available on the subject, as well as with the results from other Holivita users, to create a personalized step-by-step plan for you. Holivita technology analyzes not just individual genes but also their interactions. The system compares your genetic profile with millions of scientific publications and the real results of other users. It's like having a personal team of thousands of scientists working exclusively on your health 24/7.

By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and DNA-based analysis, this innovative project has the ability to determine what is beneficial for an individual or not. Even a globally renowned celebrity like Kendall Jenner may not, by a large margin, be safe to take any medication without adequate genetic testing. Instead of simply administering NAD+ or supplements to you based on social media hype, it utilizes the biological data that has been meticulously analyzed to help you understand if you genuinely need NAD+ boosters. This process, according to Dr. Dmitry Chebanov, Holiverse's Head of Health and a reputable biologist with over a decade and a half of experience, involves a comprehensive analysis of your respective biomarkers, a thorough assessment of your present lifestyle and a clear grasp of your health goals.

Holivita's extended guidance goes far beyond identifying potential NAD+ deficiencies; it delves deeply into the exact form of NAD+ boost your body will most likely absorb faster for optimal results. This further implies a careful examination of a plethora of existing options, ranging from subtle dietary interventions to lifestyle modifications that can naturally support NAD+ production, precisely formulated supplements backed by real science. Only then, if scientifically needed based on your health data and current lifestyle, will Holivita recommend more doses or therapies.

Additionally, based on data obtained and analyzed accurately, Holivita algorithms may also search for naturally better alternatives that align with your condition and goals, helping you achieve superior results without necessarily taking NAD+ boosts. These alternatives may operate through different biochemical pathways unrelated to direct NAD+ supplements but are equally or even more effective.

Your Genes Are Worth More Than You Think

The most interesting part is just beginning, though, as your health data, combined with genome analysis, is valued by pharmaceutical companies between $50 and $20,000 — the more complete and unique your profile, the higher the price. And Holivita offers you the opportunity to earn from this data while you improve your health according to a plan tailored to your unique biology.

Medical ID, another one of the company's first products, lets you store all your health data, such as your NAD+ intake history, in one secure place. This makes it easy to share your medical history with any clinic worldwide, helping you get more accurate and better-quality treatment.

The most revolutionary part, however, is yet to come. Holivita is developing Digital Twin technology — your DNA-avatar, on which any intervention can be safely tested. Imagine: you can see how your body will react to the same NAD+ over several months or even years, without taking a single drop. No more blind experiments for thousands of dollars — only scientifically grounded predictions based on your unique biology.

The Future Has Your Name On It

While Gwyneth Paltrow promotes yet another wellness procedure and millions of fans blindly follow celebrity advice, Holivita offers a revolutionary approach: personalized medicine based on your DNA, not Instagram trends.

The NAD+ scenario stands as a case study of a molecule that, albeit profound with benefits, can be wrapped in marketing hype when applied to human wellness. Holivita is committed to ensuring that your well-being is not a leap of faith based on the words of paid social media influencers but a carefully calibrated journey powered by your biological blueprint. The real question isn't whether NAD+ works.

The question is whether it works for YOU. And for the first time in history, we'll have a scientific way to find out.

Economic trends might seem like abstract forces in the background, but they have a way of sneaking into our daily lives. Whether it's the cost of groceries, the type of car you choose or even where you decide to live, the economy plays a big role in shaping the decisions we make. 

This article unpacks how these trends influence our lifestyles and explains why keeping an eye on the bigger picture isn't just for economists.

How Global Markets Influence Spending Decisions

On a broad level, global economic trends affect everything from the strength of your paycheck to the price tags on everyday essentials. When the economy is stable and growing, people tend to feel more confident about spending. But during a downturn, like a recession, many tighten their budgets and rethink purchases, even those they'd usually consider necessities. 

Take futures trading platforms, for example. While their tools are often associated with traders and investors, the ripples from the activity on these platforms can impact the general public. Futures trading helps set prices for commodities like oil, wheat and orange juice, which can directly influence what you pay at the gas station or the grocery store. 

If commodity prices spike due to fluctuations or anticipated shortages, families may start cutting back on certain items or seeking cheaper alternatives. On the flip side, when economic conditions improve, more money circulates in the economy. People may splurge on luxuries they held back on during tougher times, like dining out more often or finally taking that long-awaited vacation.

Housing Decisions and the Real Estate Market

Economic trends often paint a vivid picture when it comes to housing. Low-interest rates, for instance, can kick off a housing boom, encouraging more people to buy homes. But as rates climb, mortgage costs follow suit, making renting the more practical choice for many.

Consider inflation, another major player in this arena. When inflation rises, so do home prices and rent. This forces many to rethink their housing situations, with some downsizing to save money. Others might hesitate to buy, even when rates are low, because inflated prices feel like too big an investment for the moment.

The economic impact doesn't stop there. Shifts in employment trends, like work-from-home flexibility, can push people to relocate from urban areas with sky-high rents to suburbs or rural towns where they can afford more space. The result is a reshaped housing market and, for many, a lifestyle shift entirely.

Jobs, Wages and Career Choices

Your paycheck is one of the most obvious points where economic trends intersect with daily life. When the economy is strong, wages often rise, and job opportunities expand. This gives people a sense of financial security, encouraging them to spend on non-essentials like gym memberships, streaming services or hobbies they've been curious to try.

But what happens during periods of economic uncertainty? Job markets tighten, wage growth slows and, sometimes, layoffs occur. Many people respond by shifting their career strategies, like opting for more stable fields even if they don't align perfectly with their passions. Others pursue "side hustles" to pad their income, creating a gig economy boom in response to financial pressure.

The Impact on Food and Lifestyle Priorities

If there's one area where economic trends are felt most immediately, it's the cost of food and daily goods. Go to any grocery store during a period of inflation and you'll likely notice things like smaller packages (shrinkflation) or steeper prices on staples like eggs and bread. These rising costs can shift consumer habits, with people opting for generic brands, buying in bulk or even exploring community-supported agriculture for fresher, more affordable produce.

Economic trends can also make people reconsider their broader lifestyle choices. For instance, during times of financial strain, consumers often become more resourceful, focusing on sustainability and cost-saving measures. This might mean using public transport instead of driving, growing vegetables in a home garden, or joining local swap groups to trade goods instead of spending.

Final Thoughts

Economic trends might seem overwhelming or far removed from your everyday life, but in reality, they influence everything from the price of coffee to where you live and how you work. By paying attention to these larger patterns, you can make informed lifestyle choices that help you weather economic storms and take advantage of periods of growth. 

Whether you're swapping out name-brand groceries or plotting your next career move, the economy plays a silent but powerful role in shaping your choices. And while the future may be unpredictable, understanding these trends can help you stay one step ahead.

The Snake is slithering its way into our hearts Tuesday nights on FOX. Our latest reality TV obsession sees 15 contestants from various persuasive professions – the cast includes a lawyer, a detective, a bounty hunter, a professional poker player, a makeup artist and a pastor – as they face off in a series of challenges designed to determine who's the most cold-blooded among them. With $100,000 on the line, things get chilly as the competition heats up!

Wonderwall.com exclusively caught up with executive producer and showrunner SallyAnn Salsano – her past credits include Jersey Shore and Joe Millionaire: For Richer or Poorer — to get the scoop on the Jim Jefferies-hosted reality show. Keep reading for seven secrets from behind-the-scenes…

Courtesy of Fox

1. The Snake takes its inspiration from high school gym class

Unlike other reality competition shows, "majority doesn't rule" on The Snake. "Every vote is out in the open. You only need one ally to stay in the game. It brings back high school gym class where you don't want to be picked last," Salsano says, adding that in the casting process, producers "went all in on the archetypes." Sounds just like high school, right?!

2. The competition's biggest twists and turns center around the players

"We casted based on archetypes, and it was fun seeing who did as predicted and who surprised us – who played with honesty and who played shady. It changed day by day, hour by hour," Salsano says. "I love playing the armchair version of 'what would I do?' I think everyone will agree to that."

3. Major shocks are in store

"Episode 9 was the most shocking episode of television I have ever worked on," Salsano teases. She also says she was "so nervous" when "the pastor was in hot water." The shocks really kick off in week two, she warns, teasing, "Is honesty the best policy?"

4. Watch out for the tech exec

Salsano warns that Kethryn Cavender (The Tech Manager) is "playing a weird game – one for viewers and one for the rest of the cast." Says the producer, "It literally changes so fast. I have never seen anything like it."

5. Everything is on the table with $100K on the line

"I always say I will never make someone do something I wouldn't do, but there is very little I wouldn't do," Salsano says. "That being said, I didn't say I would like it. But for $100,000?! Oh my God."

6. There are too many real snakes on the show to count

According to Salsano, "a wide, beautiful variety" of real snakes appear on the show. "Enjoy! I love that yellow one," she says.

7. Jefferies is basically a snake wrangler

Jefferies is the perfect fit to host The Snake because he's "come across quite a few snakes in his career," Salsano says, adding that the actor-comedian is also "quick-witted" and "savvy to the game play."

Keep up with The Snake Tuesday nights on FOX.