Hard Numbers

242,000: The solar power industry employed 242,000 Americans in 2018, according to a new study. That was down slightly from a year earlier, as Trump administration tariffs on Chinese solar panels and changes to state policies for solar power hit demand for new projects. The Solar Foundation industry group expects the number of jobs to rise again next year as overall panel prices fall.

3,000: Turkish courts have convicted over 3,000 soldiers and civilians accused of participating in an attempted coup against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in 2016. Erdogan has cracked down on political opponents in the wake of the botched putsch, including supporters of Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom he blames for organizing the plot.

74: A new poll shows that 74 percent of Americans, including 65 percent of Republicans, support a tax on the wealth of the country's richest individuals. Several Democrats who're bidding for the 2020 presidential nomination have promised to implement such a policy if elected.

61: A recent poll commissioned by the Campaign to Stop Killer robots found that 61 percent of respondents across 26 countries favored a ban on "lethal autonomous weapons systems" that can attack and kill without human intervention. So far just 28 countries have signed on to an effort at the United Nations to prohibit the technology.

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A Gaza ceasefire has gained momentum. What is the likelihood a deal will be reached soon? What do I make of a potential sale of TikTok to Elon Musk? What does Lebanon's new president mean for Hezbollah? Ian Bremmer shares his insights on global politics this week on World In :60.

When his daughter was born, Johnny was able to use Walmart’s paid parental leave to spend six weeks bonding with her: “I’m a living example of the benefits Walmart provides.” Walmart’s comprehensive benefits — including paid parental leave, healthcare, tuition coverage, and more — help associates live better at work and at home. With a $1 billion investment in career-driven training and development, Walmart is creating pathways to higher-paying, higher-skilled jobs, so associates like Johnny can build better lives for themselves and their families. Learn why it pays to work at Walmart.

As we look ahead to the next four years, there are many reasons to be optimistic about the role of American AI. The path forward demands collaboration across all sectors, and Microsoft is ready to help chart this course. At Microsoft, we envision a three-pronged approach. First, the US must advance AI technology and infrastructure to maintain its global leadership. Second, it’s critical to expand skilling initiatives to equip the workforce for an AI-powered future. Finally, exporting American AI innovation to allied nations will not only strengthen international partnerships but also bolster domestic economic growth. Realizing this vision requires a unified effort from government, industry, and educational institutions, and Microsoft is committed to playing a key role in this journey. You can learn more here.