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Trump aims to defy gravity with Beijing friendship summit

Nearly every force shaping the two countries' relationship is pulling them apart.

Politics & Policy

President Trump&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="summit with Xi Jinping" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/13/trump-china-investment-trade" data-vars-content-id="1aef0f9c-23a0-4991-a66f-e10745467657" data-vars-headline="Trump aims to defy gravity with Beijing friendship summit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/13/trump-china-investment-trade" target="_self">summit with Xi Jinping</a> was staged as a reunion between old friends, concluding Friday with a private tour of Zhongnanhai, the Chinese Communist Party&#x27;s secretive leadership compound.<ul><li>Strolling the gardens, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="1aef0f9c-23a0-4991-a66f-e10745467657" data-vars-headline="Trump aims to defy gravity with Beijing friendship summit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump</a> declared the blooms around him &quot;the most beautiful roses anyone has ever seen.&quot; Xi promised to send him seeds.</li></ul>Why it matters: The warm public choreography of the past two days has masked a stubborn reality: nearly every force shaping <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="U.S.-China relations" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/19/china-iran-war-winner-us-military" data-vars-content-id="1aef0f9c-23a0-4991-a66f-e10745467657" data-vars-headline="Trump aims to defy gravity with Beijing friendship summit" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/19/china-iran-war-winner-us-military" target="_self">U.S.-China relations</a> is pulling them apart.

Democrats eye "hidden" Latino battlegrounds in 2026

The post-2024 narrative that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Latino voters" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/18/axios-house-sxsw-democrats-latino-voters-economy-elections" data-vars-content-id="e479d367-abae-4284-bb66-09941ec1c0ca" data-vars-headline="Democrats eye &quot;hidden&quot; Latino battlegrounds in 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/18/axios-house-sxsw-democrats-latino-voters-economy-elections" target="_self">Latino voters</a> shifted right is facing its first real stress test — including in districts Republicans thought were safely red.Why it matters: The biggest immediate test is in Texas, where Republicans drew new maps assuming continued Latino gains. But GOP House seats are also at risk in California, New York, Colorado and Nevada.

The "bliss trade" behind the stock/bond split

The disconnect can get a bit confusing for investors and policymakers.

Business

The stock market and the bond market are telling different stories about the economy: Bonds fear doom, while stocks see boom.Why it matters: That&#x27;s a bit confusing for investors and policymakers looking to these markets to make decisions — or for anyone trying to get a read on (waves hands) everything.

Health care's solvable problem: maternal mortality

Making a dent in maternal mortality stands out for its bipartisan support and lack of downsides.

Health

The exceptionally high U.S. maternal mortality rate may be a grim topic, but it&#x27;s also one of health care&#x27;s solvable problems that can rally widespread bipartisan support.Why it matters: While health policy is notorious for creating winners and losers, making a dent in maternal mortality stands out for its lack of downsides.

AI hasn't overtaken human writers online

Machine-generated online articles haven't swallowed the web yet.

Technology

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="flood" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/14/ai-generated-writing-humans" data-vars-content-id="2c0ec3c0-1dac-4bae-aaf5-3257172e3e28" data-vars-headline="AI hasn&#x27;t overtaken human writers online" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/14/ai-generated-writing-humans" target="_self">flood</a> of AI-generated writing unleashed by ChatGPT appears to have leveled off — a sign that AI content hasn&#x27;t overtaken the web after all.The big picture: The share of online news articles, blog posts and listicles that are primarily AI-generated has held near 50% for more than a year, according to<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text=" a new analysis" data-vars-click-url="https://graphite.io/five-percent/ai-now-writes-as-many-online-articles-as-humans-do" data-vars-content-id="2c0ec3c0-1dac-4bae-aaf5-3257172e3e28" data-vars-headline="AI hasn&#x27;t overtaken human writers online" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://graphite.io/five-percent/ai-now-writes-as-many-online-articles-as-humans-do" target="_blank"> a new analysis</a> from digital marketing agency Graphite.

Louisiana advances congressional map with reduced Black representation

Louisiana advances map that eliminates one majority-Black district

Senators heard nearly 10 hours of testimony in the overnight meeting.

Louisiana senators voted early Wednesday to advance a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="congressional map" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/12/louisiana-special-elections-congressional-map-town-hall" data-vars-content-id="ee30918a-b8ac-44da-8b62-70f17f167e76" data-vars-headline="Louisiana advances congressional map with reduced Black representation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/12/louisiana-special-elections-congressional-map-town-hall" target="_self">congressional map</a> that eliminates one of the state&#x27;s majority-Black districts.Why it matters: The proposed map pits U.S. Rep. Troy Carter against U.S. Rep. Cleo Fields for their seats, which are currently in two different districts, writes Piper Hutchinson of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Louisiana Illuminator" data-vars-click-url="https://lailluminator.com/2026/05/13/louisiana-senate-committee-drops-one-of-two-majority-black-districts-in-advancing-map/" data-vars-content-id="ee30918a-b8ac-44da-8b62-70f17f167e76" data-vars-headline="Louisiana advances congressional map with reduced Black representation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://lailluminator.com/2026/05/13/louisiana-senate-committee-drops-one-of-two-majority-black-districts-in-advancing-map/" target="_blank">Louisiana Illuminator</a>.

New Orleans joins national effort to promote music investment

Louisiana's music industry employs more than 35,000 people.

News

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="ccb6b827-e753-4f5c-a656-b871dd4a4e6b" data-vars-headline="New Orleans joins national effort to promote music investment" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> is partnering with other cities and states in a new trade organization focused on strengthening local <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="music scenes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/music" data-vars-content-id="ccb6b827-e753-4f5c-a656-b871dd4a4e6b" data-vars-headline="New Orleans joins national effort to promote music investment" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/music" target="_self">music scenes</a>.Why it matters: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Louisiana&#x27;s music industry" data-vars-click-url="https://www.louisianamusicpartners.com/about" data-vars-content-id="ccb6b827-e753-4f5c-a656-b871dd4a4e6b" data-vars-headline="New Orleans joins national effort to promote music investment" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.louisianamusicpartners.com/about" target="_blank">Louisiana&#x27;s music industry</a> is worth $1.4 billion and employs more than 35,000 people.

Louisiana's political mess just got messier

New Orleans city leaders pushed back legally and verbally Monday.

Election

<figure><img alt="Image shows Troy Carter, Mayor Helena Moreno, JP Morrell, Jason Williams, Alanah Odoms, Jared Evans and Sidney Barthelemy talking on stage." height="450" id="371c0850-4ced-4c25-844b-3cb46d7b7f5f" src="https://images.axios.com/39x_W_MaSnp1oGfwjXOKL17b7fc=/2026/05/12/1778561400217.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>U.S. Rep. Troy Carter at his town hall at Dillard University. GIF: Carlie Kollath Wells/Axios</figcaption></figure><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans leaders" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" data-vars-content-id="ce616ba0-af81-4d6f-91b9-242bf66935a0" data-vars-headline="Louisiana&#x27;s political mess just got messier" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" target="_self">New Orleans leaders</a> pushed back legally and verbally Monday against Gov. Jeff Landry&#x27;s efforts to redraw the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="state&#x27;s congressional map" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/11/louisiana-begins-redistricting-while-new-orleans-proposes-special-election" data-vars-content-id="ce616ba0-af81-4d6f-91b9-242bf66935a0" data-vars-headline="Louisiana&#x27;s political mess just got messier" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/11/louisiana-begins-redistricting-while-new-orleans-proposes-special-election" target="_self">state&#x27;s congressional map</a> and eliminate an elected office in the city.Why it matters: The fights could reshape Black political representation in the state and local control in New Orleans.

Louisiana redistricting fight heads to full Senate vote

The proposed map would reduce Black representation.

Louisiana lawmakers are scheduled to vote Thursday on a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new congressional map" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/12/louisiana-special-elections-congressional-map-town-hall" data-vars-content-id="dcdb32cc-5fe8-468f-be79-05d13b135898" data-vars-headline="Louisiana redistricting fight heads to full Senate vote" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/12/louisiana-special-elections-congressional-map-town-hall" target="_self">new congressional map</a> that would eliminate one of the state&#x27;s two majority-Black U.S. House districts.Why it matters: The map would likely flip the 6th Congressional District, which is currently held by Democrat Cleo Fields, to a Republican seat — as part of a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="national midterm directive" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/06/congressional-redistricting-louisiana-gerrymanding-republicans" data-vars-content-id="dcdb32cc-5fe8-468f-be79-05d13b135898" data-vars-headline="Louisiana redistricting fight heads to full Senate vote" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/06/congressional-redistricting-louisiana-gerrymanding-republicans" target="_self">national midterm directive</a> from President Trump.

1-minute guide to congressional redistricting amid new GOP push

Louisiana lawmakers are set to redraw the state's congressional map.

Louisiana lawmakers are set to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="redraw the state&#x27;s congressional map" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/05/louisiana-redraw-congressional-map-troy-carter-cleo-fields" data-vars-content-id="97a88093-edb3-47f8-a1d3-888f92a76b0f" data-vars-headline="1-minute guide to congressional redistricting amid new GOP push" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/05/louisiana-redraw-congressional-map-troy-carter-cleo-fields" target="_self">redraw the state&#x27;s congressional map</a>, which will likely give Republicans another U.S. House seat.Why it matters: It&#x27;s part of a national effort, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="encouraged by President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/116494706928688681" data-vars-content-id="97a88093-edb3-47f8-a1d3-888f92a76b0f" data-vars-headline="1-minute guide to congressional redistricting amid new GOP push" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/116494706928688681" target="_blank">encouraged by President Trump</a>, to redraw maps to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="benefit Republicans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2025/12/04/supreme-court-rules-texas-gop-redistricting-map" data-vars-content-id="97a88093-edb3-47f8-a1d3-888f92a76b0f" data-vars-headline="1-minute guide to congressional redistricting amid new GOP push" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2025/12/04/supreme-court-rules-texas-gop-redistricting-map" target="_self">benefit Republicans</a>.

Louisiana will start redrawing congressional map this week

Reps. Troy Carter and Cleo Fields are at risk of losing their seats.

Louisiana lawmakers are set to begin work on a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new congressional map" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/04/30/louisiana-halts-house-elections-supreme-court-map-ruling" data-vars-content-id="3848c8b7-fe83-4060-9e0c-82c1b1f813e5" data-vars-headline="Louisiana will start redrawing congressional map this week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/04/30/louisiana-halts-house-elections-supreme-court-map-ruling" target="_self">new congressional map</a> Friday, per the Louisiana Illuminator.Why it matters: The redrawn map will likely cut the number of majority-Black U.S. House districts in the state, putting either Troy Carter or Cleo Fields at risk of losing their seats.

Smoothie King adds a "tangy" pickle smoothie

Food and Drink

Smoothie King, which started in Kenner, added a pickle smoothie this week.The big picture: It&#x27;s a limited-time collab with Grillo&#x27;s Pickles.

19 new restaurants to try across metro New Orleans

At least 11 <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="restaurants and bars" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/food-and-drink" data-vars-content-id="6eaf7bb4-a5d4-469b-9da9-93007d7ebe38" data-vars-headline="19 new restaurants to try across metro New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/food-and-drink" target="_self">restaurants and bars</a> have opened recently in metro <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="6eaf7bb4-a5d4-469b-9da9-93007d7ebe38" data-vars-headline="19 new restaurants to try across metro New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a>. Plus, Emeril Lagasse and Dakar NOLA have new ones in the works.<ul><li>The latest...</li></ul>

My go-to eats at Jazz Fest

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans Jazz Fest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/04/23/jazz-fest-2026-pro-tips-whats-new-discounted-tickets" data-vars-content-id="9bbf8082-2c13-40da-9c63-d545b5d91ab2" data-vars-headline="My go-to eats at Jazz Fest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/04/23/jazz-fest-2026-pro-tips-whats-new-discounted-tickets" target="_self">New Orleans Jazz Fest</a> is as much about the food as the music.Why it matters: Go hungry to the Fair Grounds.

10 classic New Orleans cocktails

New Orleans may not have invented cocktails, but it did perfect them.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="5e5c65f8-6621-481a-a33c-def863ea3969" data-vars-headline="10 classic New Orleans cocktails" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> may or may not have invented the cocktail, but we feel pretty confident that the city&#x27;s bars and bartenders perfected it.Why it matters: There&#x27;s no better place to get in touch with your favorites, whether they&#x27;re shaken or stirred.

Tourism leaders see bright spots across New Orleans

State and local officials are using National Travel and Tourism Week to spotlight an industry that remains one of Louisiana's biggest economic drivers.

Tourism powers <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="3bafcfdb-922c-4505-b57b-a624fe53ae4e" data-vars-headline="Tourism leaders see bright spots across New Orleans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a>&#x27; economy.Why it matters: State and local officials are using National Travel and Tourism Week to spotlight an industry that remains one of Louisiana&#x27;s biggest economic drivers, especially in New Orleans.

Abortion pill rulings cause whiplash and confusion

Nationwide access to abortion pills is again in legal limbo.

Nationwide access to abortion pills is again in legal limbo, almost two years after the Supreme Court <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="threw out" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2024/06/13/supreme-court-abortion-pill-case-decision" data-vars-content-id="a3cf0744-f350-46f2-b4e8-737c7db65c1f" data-vars-headline="Abortion pill rulings cause whiplash and confusion" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2024/06/13/supreme-court-abortion-pill-case-decision" target="_self">threw out</a> a case challenging mail-order prescribing of the widely used drug mifepristone.Why it matters: A <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="circuit court ruling" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/01/court-limits-abortion-pill-access" data-vars-content-id="a3cf0744-f350-46f2-b4e8-737c7db65c1f" data-vars-headline="Abortion pill rulings cause whiplash and confusion" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/01/court-limits-abortion-pill-access" target="_self">circuit court ruling</a> on Friday that dramatically dialed back access to the drug has caused confusion for pharmacies, telehealth companies and other clinicians, even in states where abortion is legal.

LIV Golf future in jeopardy after losing Saudi funding

The Saudi sovereign wealth fund on Thursday confirmed it's withdrawing support for the LIV Golf tour after the 2026 season.

The Saudi sovereign wealth fund on Thursday confirmed it&#x27;s withdrawing support for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="LIV Golf" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/29/liv-golf-pif-funding" data-vars-content-id="f818dc15-8453-47d7-83bc-032123a3aeab" data-vars-headline="LIV Golf future in jeopardy after losing Saudi funding" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/29/liv-golf-pif-funding" target="_self">LIV Golf</a> after the 2026 season. Why it matters: The move places the tour&#x27;s future in jeopardy four years after it was launched as a splashy, well-capitalized competitor to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="PGA Tour" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/07/15/liv-golf-pga-tour-british-open" data-vars-content-id="f818dc15-8453-47d7-83bc-032123a3aeab" data-vars-headline="LIV Golf future in jeopardy after losing Saudi funding" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/07/15/liv-golf-pga-tour-british-open" target="_self">PGA Tour</a>.

New Orleans banks on casino deal as fiscal crisis persists

The lump sum will shore up emergency funds before hurricane season.

Politics

<figure><img alt="Image shows Helena Moreno and other New Orleans officials talking behind a podium." height="450" id="6934dc1a-7b29-41cd-84dd-830741a36c44" src="https://images.axios.com/S9l7byt9njiChonur5UyoarkJ-g=/2026/04/28/1777407172256.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Mayor Helena Moreno, City Council members and other leaders on Tuesday. Image: Carlie Kollath Wells/Axios</figcaption></figure><a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans leaders" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" data-vars-content-id="138b18ca-d84b-406e-b709-9b103b95fa45" data-vars-headline="New Orleans banks on casino deal as fiscal crisis persists" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" target="_self">New Orleans leaders</a> are moving to shore up the city&#x27;s finances ahead of hurricane season with a $103 million casino deal.Why it matters: Mayor Helena Moreno inherited a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$160 million budget deficit" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/11/12/loan-request-bond-status-helena-moreno" data-vars-content-id="138b18ca-d84b-406e-b709-9b103b95fa45" data-vars-headline="New Orleans banks on casino deal as fiscal crisis persists" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/11/12/loan-request-bond-status-helena-moreno" target="_self">$160 million budget deficit</a> that drained the emergency fund, limiting how officials can respond if another devastating storm hits southeast Louisiana.

Getting older with my mom

Somewhere between diapers and dishes, my mom and I became friends.

Culture

One unexpected gift of adulthood is realizing your parents are people, too.Why it matters: As mine get older, I&#x27;ve become more intentional about enjoying the time we have together.

Checking off your North Carolina bucket list

North Carolina is the best place to live in the country. If you can't live here, you can plan a visit based on some of our favorite spots.

We at Axios Raleigh and Axios Charlotte are obviously a bit biased, but we believe that North Carolina is the best place to live in the country. If you can&#x27;t live here, you can plan a visit based on some of our favorite spots.<ul><li>Drive a few hours west, and you&#x27;re surrounded by the dramatic Blue Ridge Mountains. Head east, and you&#x27;ll find some of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="best beaches" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/05/24/best-beaches-north-carolina-guide-travel-tourism" data-vars-content-id="3ed9bd94-e719-46c3-b5cc-d824441c8f76" data-vars-headline="Checking off your North Carolina bucket list" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/charlotte/2024/05/24/best-beaches-north-carolina-guide-travel-tourism" target="_self">best beaches</a> around. In between, you&#x27;ve got college towns, big cities, rural charm and rich history.</li></ul>

How mahjong became the hottest game in town

Events dedicated to the strategy game are becoming wildly popular.

Kelly Walker was eager to connect with new friends when she started hosting mahjong nights at her home a little more than a year ago.Why it matters: The game nights have since became so popular that venues across <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="eaf9d044-eacb-4799-a2de-88241a410aa9" data-vars-headline="How mahjong became the hottest game in town" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> are asking her to set up shop.

The New Orleans gumbo you can only get once a year

<figure><img alt="Image shows a table with green gumbo and fried chicken." height="450" id="2801b6d9-4ea6-4327-a9fe-a6908ff7e769" src="https://images.axios.com/xmj4yZ9hkfo10G6VnhssbS9tIKY=/2026/04/02/1775164677147.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Gumbo z&#x27;herbes at Dooky Chase&#x27;s Restaurant in New Orleans. Image: Carlie Kollath Wells/Axios</figcaption></figure>Dooky Chase&#x27;s is a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="31818d55-0652-4552-bb8b-3c16d2f2932a" data-vars-headline="The New Orleans gumbo you can only get once a year" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> institution, especially on Holy Thursday.Why it matters: It&#x27;s the only day of the year to get chef Leah Chase&#x27;s gumbo z&#x27;herbes, a dish steeped in faith and New Orleans tradition.

Louisiana's political chaos shows no signs of slowing

The map now heads to a House committee for another vote.

Louisiana&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="political fights" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" data-vars-content-id="927f60c6-ba5a-40fc-9649-dc33663427eb" data-vars-headline="Louisiana&#x27;s political chaos shows no signs of slowing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/politics" target="_self">political fights</a> are escalating on nearly every front.Congressional map: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Senators voted" data-vars-click-url="https://lailluminator.com/2026/05/14/louisiana-redistrict-3/" data-vars-content-id="927f60c6-ba5a-40fc-9649-dc33663427eb" data-vars-headline="Louisiana&#x27;s political chaos shows no signs of slowing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://lailluminator.com/2026/05/14/louisiana-redistrict-3/" target="_blank">Senators voted</a> 27-10 along party lines on Thursday to advance a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new state map" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/14/louisiana-senate-vote-congressional-map" data-vars-content-id="927f60c6-ba5a-40fc-9649-dc33663427eb" data-vars-headline="Louisiana&#x27;s political chaos shows no signs of slowing" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/14/louisiana-senate-vote-congressional-map" target="_self">new state map</a> that eliminates one of the state&#x27;s two majority-Black U.S. House districts.

Louisiana Supreme Court intervenes in Orleans clerk showdown

Chelsey Richard Napoleon will run the consolidated clerk office, the court says.

The Louisiana Supreme Court stepped in Thursday and paused a high-stakes game of chicken between <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Attorney General Liz Murrill" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/14/louisiana-ag-threatens-to-remove-new-orleans-mayor-from-office" data-vars-content-id="ebccde63-4e32-49c4-ada9-69ff15b18442" data-vars-headline="Louisiana Supreme Court intervenes in Orleans clerk showdown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/14/louisiana-ag-threatens-to-remove-new-orleans-mayor-from-office" target="_self">Attorney General Liz Murrill</a> and Mayor Helena Moreno.Why it matters: The tensions have been ratcheting up this week between the Republicans who lead the state and the Democrats who lead its biggest city.

Keith Lee festival debuts as Bayou Boogaloo pivots

FamiLee Day has food, music and an obstacle course.

Things to Do

TikTok food influencer Keith Lee hosts his inaugural festival in New Orleans this weekend, while <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bayou Boogaloo" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/03/10/scoop-bayou-boogaloo-new-location-20th-anniversary" data-vars-content-id="6fb51d0f-55f8-4244-ac5d-f8ca11b63856" data-vars-headline="Keith Lee festival debuts as Bayou Boogaloo pivots" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/03/10/scoop-bayou-boogaloo-new-location-20th-anniversary" target="_self">Bayou Boogaloo</a> celebrates its 20th anniversary with a smaller, reimagined format.Why it matters: You&#x27;ve got plenty to do after casting your ballot Saturday.

Supreme Court keeps freeze on abortion pill restrictions

The widely expected order provides legal certainty for pharmacies, telehealth companies and clinicians.

A divided U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday indefinitely extended a freeze on strict new restrictions for dispensing the widely used <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="abortion pill" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/health/axios-explains-abortion" data-vars-content-id="36e93213-fb43-4a40-a9c4-c4816b6cd789" data-vars-headline="Supreme Court keeps freeze on abortion pill restrictions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/health/axios-explains-abortion" target="_self">abortion pill</a> mifepristone while an underlying legal fight over the drug plays out.Why it matters: The widely expected order provides legal certainty for pharmacies, telehealth companies and clinicians caught up in the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="latest battle" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/05/abortion-pill-rulings-whiplash-confusion" data-vars-content-id="36e93213-fb43-4a40-a9c4-c4816b6cd789" data-vars-headline="Supreme Court keeps freeze on abortion pill restrictions" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/05/abortion-pill-rulings-whiplash-confusion" target="_self">latest battle</a> over accessing the pill.

Louisiana lawmakers weigh cuts to Black House districts

The proposals eliminate one or both of the state's majority-Black districts.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Louisiana lawmakers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/05/louisiana-redraw-congressional-map-troy-carter-cleo-fields" data-vars-content-id="b392d3fe-6459-48db-9d4b-b72a12e32c86" data-vars-headline="Louisiana lawmakers weigh cuts to Black House districts" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/05/05/louisiana-redraw-congressional-map-troy-carter-cleo-fields" target="_self">Louisiana lawmakers</a> on Friday will consider congressional maps that could reshape Black political representation in the state.Why it matters: The four proposals eliminate one or both of the state&#x27;s majority-Black congressional districts.

I tried it: Viral soft-serve margaritas

<figure><img alt="Image shows a person squeezing fresh lime juice over two frozen drinks at a bar." height="450" id="f7663144-ed53-4fc9-b5b5-54a16a7bfb9b" src="https://images.axios.com/P1er1GHpvjLBSe-0tIfUy5DgiDA=/2026/05/05/1778014569646.gif" width="800"/><figcaption>Soft-serve margaritas get a squeeze of fresh lime juice at Felipe&#x27;s. Image: Carlie Kollath Wells/Axios</figcaption></figure>I recently tried the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="latest food item" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/food-and-drink" data-vars-content-id="6d0c6d4c-11ae-4f88-925f-573d19fb7784" data-vars-headline="I tried it: Viral soft-serve margaritas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/food-and-drink" target="_self">latest food item</a> to go viral: soft-serve margaritas.Why it matters: As temperatures climb, frozen cocktails like this are an easy sell in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="6d0c6d4c-11ae-4f88-925f-573d19fb7784" data-vars-headline="I tried it: Viral soft-serve margaritas" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a>.

How 504 became New Orleans' calling card

May 4 is known as 504 Day in New Orleans.

It&#x27;s 504 Day in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="e8da9d96-2e18-4fe3-b6c5-96b95b9fbfa4" data-vars-headline="How 504 became New Orleans&#x27; calling card" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a>, an unofficial celebration of the area code that&#x27;s come to define the city.Why it matters: Few cities have turned a phone number into a point of pride quite like New Orleans.

Halted elections and a sheriff indicted: Louisiana's high-stakes week

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Louisiana" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="b696547e-491e-4aa1-b7de-f7b35ff5b8cd" data-vars-headline="Halted elections and a sheriff indicted: Louisiana&#x27;s high-stakes week" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">Louisiana</a> is closing out a week of major fast-moving headlines.Why it matters: Several high-stakes decisions — from congressional maps to a sheriff&#x27;s indictment — are creating uncertainty around how key public systems function.

New Orleans-shot "Is God Is" opens Friday

Vivica A. Fox and Sterling K. Brown star.

Vivica A. Fox&#x27;s new movie, which was <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="filmed in New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2024/10/29/people-you-meet-vacation-book-movie-filming" data-vars-content-id="4b2970a8-9ca0-4aff-bdae-a32b163a9e68" data-vars-headline="New Orleans-shot &quot;Is God Is&quot; opens Friday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2024/10/29/people-you-meet-vacation-book-movie-filming" target="_self">filmed in New Orleans</a>, hits theaters Friday.The big picture: &quot;Is God Is&quot; is based on the play by Aleshea Harris, who adapted it for the big screen and made her directorial debut.

The sharks weren't the scariest part of Netflix's new thriller

"Thrash" spent three weeks in Netflix's Top 10 movies list.

Netflix has a new scary movie just in time for hurricane season.The big picture: In &quot;<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Thrash" data-vars-click-url="https://www.netflix.com/title/82650122" data-vars-content-id="a5bcad09-2e8f-4506-9920-e184ff6db243" data-vars-headline="The sharks weren&#x27;t the scariest part of Netflix&#x27;s new thriller" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.netflix.com/title/82650122" target="_blank">Thrash</a>,&quot; a Category 5 storm slams a South Carolina town, trapping residents in the floodwaters.<ul><li>Plot twist: Ravenous sharks are in the water. Yeah, I rolled my eyes, too.</li></ul>

Robin Barnes drops debut album in time for Jazz Fest

The "Songbird of New Orleans" is reintroducing herself.

Music

Robin Barnes is one of the most visible working singers in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="ac53abaf-f5f2-4c13-ace4-583baf925a3e" data-vars-headline="Robin Barnes drops debut album in time for Jazz Fest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a> today, but somehow she&#x27;s gained that reputation without ever putting out her own full-length album.Why it matters: That changes now.

Jazz Fest 2026: What to know before you go

It's one of the biggest annual events in New Orleans.

The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans Jazz &amp; Heritage Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/03/24/whats-new-jazz-fest-poster-music-bayouwear" data-vars-content-id="4e012df9-d2d9-47df-a4e5-ee242d7b6d7b" data-vars-headline="Jazz Fest 2026: What to know before you go" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2026/03/24/whats-new-jazz-fest-poster-music-bayouwear" target="_self">New Orleans Jazz &amp; Heritage Festival</a> kicks off Thursday with two weekends of music, food and culture at the Fair Grounds.Why it matters: It&#x27;s one of New Orleans&#x27; biggest events of the year, drawing massive crowds and big-name talent.

Nashville

How to spend your summer vacation in Nashville

Celebrity chefs have set up shop, new attractions are taking shape and the famed corridor of honky-tonks on Lower Broadway keeps getting brighter.

If you&#x27;re looking to sing your way through summer vacation, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Nashville" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/things-to-do" data-vars-content-id="daba2283-cb2f-413e-bb89-21fe8d210193" data-vars-headline="How to spend your summer vacation in Nashville" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/nashville/things-to-do" target="_self">Nashville</a> is the perfect destination.Why it matters: Music City has been the end of the yellow brick road for generations of aspiring musicians. As such, it is loaded with must-see landmarks for any music lover.

What's new at French Quarter Fest 2026

The city's largest free festival starts Thursday.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="French Quarter Fest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/04/10/things-to-do-weekend-festivals-free" data-vars-content-id="921f2586-8c16-457b-9474-2709f6e6744d" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s new at French Quarter Fest 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2025/04/10/things-to-do-weekend-festivals-free" target="_self">French Quarter Fest</a> kicks off Thursday with four days of food, music and dancing throughout <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="New Orleans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" data-vars-content-id="921f2586-8c16-457b-9474-2709f6e6744d" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s new at French Quarter Fest 2026" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans" target="_self">New Orleans</a>&#x27; oldest neighborhood.Why it matters: It&#x27;s the city&#x27;s largest free festival.

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Louisiana's political chaos shows no signs of slowing

Louisiana Supreme Court intervenes in Orleans clerk showdown

Keith Lee festival debuts as Bayou Boogaloo pivots

Supreme Court keeps freeze on abortion pill restrictions

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