United StatesOwnership & classification
Founded: 2016
Ownership
Axios was founded in 2016 by former Politico figures Jim VandeHei, Mike Allen and Roy Schwartz. In September 2022 it was acquired by Cox Enterprises, the privately held Atlanta media and communications conglomerate controlled by the Cox family, in a deal valuing Axios at about $525 million; Cox owns roughly 70% while Axios's founders and employees retain about 30%.
Funding
Financed by advertising and sponsorships, paid newsletter/subscription products (including Axios Pro and local Axios editions), events, and the backing of parent Cox Enterprises; early growth was funded by venture rounds from investors such as Lerer Hippeau, Emerson Collective and NBC News.
Affiliation & stance
Axios is privately and commercially owned, with no party or state control, and positions itself as nonpartisan 'smart brevity' news; private corporate ownership by Cox Enterprises makes it INDEPENDENT. The site's INDEPENDENT/CENTER guess is appropriate.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 254
75/100
Factual
69/100
Objective
298
Articles
298
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
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Recent coverage
Ukraine reports two dead after night attacks by Russia, with the death toll in Kiev rising to 30.
At least two people were killed and eight injured in Russian air strikes on the Sumy region and Kryvyj Rih in Ukraine during the night of Thursday to Friday, according to Ukrainian authorities. This follows a large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv earlier in the week which killed at least 30 people and injured around 100 others. In response to the attacks, Ukraine conducted missile strikes on Belgorod in Russia, causing a fire at an energy facility and killing one woman, according to Russian media. The overnight strike on the city of Romny in the Sumy region hit a residential building, killing two women and injuring a man, reported regional administrator Oleh Hryhorov via Telegram. Another seven people were injured in a missile strike on Kryvyj Rih, according to military city administrator Oleksandr Vilkul. In Kyiv, teams discovered three more dead bodies during the night, bringing the total number of victims to 30, according to Reuters citing Ukrainian health authorities. Kyiv's military administrator Tymur Tkačenko stated that the attack injured 99 people. Moscow claimed the extensive attack was a response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, including those carried
A warning sign about AI’s real cost, courtesy of Google and Amazon
TechCrunch highlights concerns about the environmental impact of artificial intelligence (AI), using recent sustainability reports from Google and Amazon as evidence. Both companies have seen significant increases in carbon emissions—25% for Google and 16% for Amazon—since last year, largely attributed to the growing energy demands of AI technologies. While neither explicitly blames AI for these rises, the reports indicate that increased energy consumption linked to AI development and deployment is a major factor. Much of the emissions increase stems from 'Scope 3' emissions, which encompass indirect sources such as purchased goods and services, including data centers and GPUs. Both firms emphasize their efforts toward renewable energy and net-zero goals, but the challenge remains substantial.
Three things to watch amid Anthropic’s latest feud with the government
Anthropic, an AI company based in the United States, developed an advanced AI model called Mythos, which demonstrated exceptional capabilities in handling code. Concerned about potential cybersecurity risks, Anthropic shared limited access with cybersecurity experts before releasing a modified version called Fable to the public. However, the U.S. government quickly intervened, citing national security concerns and imposing export restrictions on Fable. Anthropic subsequently revoked access to both models. This incident has sparked discussions about the broader implications of AI regulation, with some arguing that the government's response was overly reactive rather than well-planned. Additionally, the event has raised questions about the reliability of American AI companies, prompting European leaders to consider accelerating their own AI development efforts. Meanwhile, open-source AI models from China have gained attention due to their affordability and accessibility, potentially influencing global AI strategies.
In the tropical Pacific, El Niño conditions have set in, researchers say.
The article reports that researchers from New Zealand’s Earth Sciences organization (ESNZ) have identified conditions consistent with the El Niño climate phenomenon in the tropical Pacific. They warn that impacts on New Zealand’s weather are likely to intensify over the coming months. The ESNZ joined other organizations in Australia, Japan, and the U.S. in confirming the development of El Niño, which is expected to reach strong intensity between July and September. The effects are projected to peak during the Southern Hemisphere summer, spanning late 2023 into early 2024. According to lead researcher Chris Brandolini, this El Niño event is at least comparable in strength to five of the strongest recorded El Niños in modern history. The article outlines regional rainfall expectations, noting potential below-average precipitation in some areas and above-normal levels in others. It also mentions possible temperature fluctuations and increased wind variability later in the year. Additionally, it notes two lower-probability risks: sudden stratospheric warming and the occurrence of a tropical cyclone outside the typical season, both historically linked to El Niño. Brandolini connects the
Around 145 million at risk as U.S. braces for holiday week heat wave; wildfires continue to rage in the West
An intense heatwave is expected to affect approximately 145 million people across the eastern United States during the July Fourth holiday week, with temperatures projected to rise into the upper 90s and 100s. Heat index values could reach 105 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit, prompting heat alerts from the Midwest to Florida and across the Northeast and New England. Cities such as Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Chicago are among those at risk. Officials, including Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, have issued warnings about the dangers of extreme heat, emphasizing the importance of staying indoors, using air conditioning, and checking on vulnerable individuals. Cooling centers are being made available to assist residents. Meanwhile, wildfires continue to rage in the western United States, with new fires erupting in Utah and Colorado, and three firefighters tragically losing their lives while battling these blazes.
Born in the U.S.A.: Protecting the right of birthright citizenship
The article discusses the legal concept of birthright citizenship in the United States, as outlined in the 14th Amendment to the Constitution. It states that anyone born in the U.S., except for children of diplomats or invading forces, is automatically a citizen. Professor Amanda Frost explains that the wording of the amendment leaves little room for interpretation. However, public opinion remains split, with roughly half of Americans supporting granting citizenship to children of undocumented immigrants and the other half opposing it. In January 2025, former President Donald Trump issued an executive order attempting to reinterpret the 14th Amendment to exclude most children of undocumented immigrants from automatic citizenship, but this was blocked by a lower court and is currently under review by the Supreme Court. The article references historical cases such as Dred Scott v. Sandford, where the Supreme Court ruled that Black individuals could not be citizens, leading to the creation of the 14th Amendment. Another landmark case, Wong Kim Ark v. United States, affirmed birthright citizenship for those born in the U.S., including children of immigrants.
The law that could help Congress kill Trump's Iran deal
The potential Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Trump administration and Iran has sparked interest among lawmakers from both major U.S. political parties, who are considering using the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act (INARA) to scrutinize the deal. This law, enacted during the Obama administration, allows Congress to review any nuclear agreements involving Iran and imposes a 30-day delay before sanctions can be waived. While some Republican senators, like Lindsey Graham and James Lankford, advocate for Congressional involvement in reviewing such an agreement, others express hesitation due to complex political dynamics. Democratic Senator Brian Schatz supports the idea of Congressional oversight, aligning with broader efforts to ensure transparency and accountability. However, the extent to which Congress will influence the final agreement remains uncertain, as the White House might attempt to bypass these procedures.
How the world's top AI models were revived
This article discusses the controversy surrounding the United States' attempt to restrict access to Anthropic's advanced AI models, Mythos and Fable, due to alleged security risks. The conflict began when Amazon, Anthropic's partner and investor, raised concerns about a 'jailbreaking' vulnerability that could compromise the AI's safety mechanisms. These concerns were escalated to the Trump administration, leading to the imposition of export controls. However, cybersecurity experts later pointed out that similar vulnerabilities exist in other major AI models. After a prolonged negotiation involving multiple government agencies, Anthropic managed to have its models reinstated on June 12, following additional safety measures. The situation involved high-level political engagement, including interactions between Anthropic's CEO Dario Amodei and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, as well as efforts by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to facilitate resolution.
Israel and Lebanon sign framework agreement
Israel and Lebanon signed a framework agreement on Friday in Washington, mediated by the Trump administration, marking a diplomatic breakthrough. The agreement aims to end Israel's occupation of southern Lebanon and restore Lebanon's territorial integrity, though implementation remains uncertain due to Hezbollah's continued influence. The framework includes immediate steps like pilot projects where Israeli forces will withdraw from specific areas and Lebanese troops will deploy, with U.S. involvement to ensure these zones are free of Hezbollah. A senior Israeli official emphasized maintaining security until Hezbollah is disarmed, while a Hezbollah-affiliated leader criticized the agreement, warning of potential civil conflict. The agreement comes amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, with Israel conducting targeted strikes against perceived threats. U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, praised the agreement as a step toward peace, promising $100 million in aid for Lebanon.
Wait, Trump Made HOW Much Money as President?!
The article discusses the significant increase in Donald Trump's personal income during his first year in office, citing a financial disclosure report showing he earned at least $2.2 billion in 2025—three and a half times his 2024 earnings. This includes substantial gains from cryptocurrency ventures, real estate, and legal settlements. The piece highlights potential conflicts of interest, such as Trump's influence over regulatory decisions affecting his businesses, including exemptions for his cryptocurrency projects and dealings with foreign entities. It contrasts Trump's situation with historical precedents, noting that most modern presidents avoided direct financial benefits while in office, though some had ethical concerns. The article questions whether Trump's actions represent a new level of corruption, particularly given the lack of accountability from a Republican-controlled Congress and his base.
Trump Claimed to Run Venezuela. After Earthquakes, He’s Walking That Back.
Following the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, U.S. President Donald Trump initially asserted that the U.S. would 'run' Venezuela, declaring 'we're in charge.' However, after two major earthquakes struck Venezuela, causing significant casualties and destruction, Trump shifted to offering limited humanitarian assistance rather than asserting direct control. A U.S. government official suggested that Trump's response does not reflect the extent of U.S. influence over Venezuela, which they describe as a 'vassal state.' Meanwhile, Venezuelan American organizations and progressive foreign policy groups plan to request substantial, unconditional humanitarian aid from the Trump administration, citing U.S. responsibility for the crisis caused by sanctions and military actions. These groups argue that U.S. aid must match the scale of the harm inflicted. Trump has previously claimed that the U.S. has profited significantly from Venezuela's oil resources, recovering war costs 28 times over, but critics highlight economic analyses indicating that U.S. policies have exacerbated Venezuela's struggles.
Team Trump squares up to rip Red and Blue critics of Iran peace deal
The Trump administration faces criticism from both Republicans and Democrats in Congress over a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Iran aimed at ending hostilities and advancing broader negotiations. Critics argue the deal represents a significant concession to Iran, including provisions for the release of frozen Iranian assets and funding for Iran's reconstruction, which they compare unfavorably to the 2015 nuclear deal under former President Barack Obama. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) called the MOU 'the worst foreign policy blunder in decades,' while Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) accused the administration of betraying Israel. Democratic senators such as Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey have also criticized the deal, with Warren comparing it to the Obama-era agreement and Markey demanding congressional rejection. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has been vocal in opposing the deal, describing it as 'the art of surrender.' The 2015 law requiring congressional review of agreements involving Iran's nuclear program may provide a legislative avenue for challenging the MOU.
Ukraine proves it can hit Russia almost anywhere
The article discusses Ukraine's increasing capability to strike targets within Russia, including oil facilities, weapon factories, and infrastructure, leading to fuel shortages and safety concerns for Russians. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky claims Russia has shifted most of its air defenses to protect key areas like Moscow, leaving other regions vulnerable. Russian President Vladimir Putin admitted to 'problems' and 'shortages' caused by these strikes but dismissed their importance. Meanwhile, Russia continues to attack Ukraine, particularly Kyiv, resulting in civilian casualties. The article highlights Ukraine's shift toward using domestically produced drones and modified missiles to target locations far from the border, such as Moscow and St. Petersburg. A report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies notes that Ukraine has significantly escalated its operations against Russian logistics and supply chains, employing tactics similar to classic air interdiction. However, Western restrictions on weaponry have slowed progress, and while some strikes succeed, others are intercepted or fail. The article concludes with a warning from Ukraine's defense minister,
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
