• Whether you live in a city or on a mountain, a good pair of winter boots is a closet must-have.
• There is no need to sacrifice fashion for function, and the best winter boots for women give you a little bit of both. 
• The UGG Adirondack III Boots are our top pick because they are stylish, but tough enough to handle the harshest winter weather.
• If you're looking for men's sizes, check out our guide to the best winter boots for men.

When you think of "winter boots," it's likely you think of thick-soled, lace-up boots that are perfect for stomping through the snow. But anyone who has lived in the suburbs or a major city knows that not everyone needs winter boots that are so technically-focused. The most important things in a winter boot are style, warmth, comfort, and its ability to protect your feet from the elements. 

In the process of writing this buying guide, we researched winter boots from all the top brands and several lesser-known names to find pairs in a variety of styles that were highly rated. We also pulled information from our testing, as plenty of folks on the team are regularly testing winter boots. 

After all, we know that not everyone needs heavy-duty boots that can take on sub-zero temperatures and six-foot snowbanks, but we also know that there are plenty of people who are looking for a great pair of snow boots who won't be satisfied with a cute pair that can't handle more than a light flurry. As such, we've included a fair mix of different options here so there will be something for everyone.

Here are the best winter boots for women:

• Best winter boots overall: UGG Adirondack III Boots
• Best tall winter boots: Sorel Joan of Arctic Boots
• Best slip-on snow boots: LaCrosse Women's Alpha Thermal Boots
• Best tough winter boots: Columbia Bugaboot IV Winter Boots
• Best stylish winter boots: Sorel Slimpack II Lace Boots
• Best mid-calf winter boots: Columbia Heavenly Omni-Heat Lace-Up Boots

Updated on 1/5/2020 by Maria Del Russo: Updated prices, links, and sizing information. Added the LaCrosse Women's Alpha Thermal Boots as our best slip-on snow boots pick. We're currently in the process of testing more boots for this guide, so make sure to check back soon. 

SEE ALSO: The best winter boots for men

The best winter boots overall

The UGG Adirondack III Boots are super cute winter boots that can handle extreme cold and deep snow without any problems.

Pros: Waterproof, pure wool lining, made for very cold temperatures, good traction, Vibram sole

Cons: None to speak of

Sizing options: 5-12

UGG makes super stylish boots, and the Adirondack III boots are made for intense cold and tons of snow. With these boots on your feet, you'll be ready to brave anything winter throws at you.

The boots are made of waterproof leather and they have a super cozy insulating wool lining that's as fuzzy as it is warm. You can roll the tops down to expose the wool for style, or flip them back up to keep more of your ankle and lower calf warm.

The Vibram outsole is strong and provides great traction on icy surfaces, plus, these boots can handle extremely cold temperatures as low as -20°C, which is -4°F. You can buy the Adirondack boots in a few different colors, including white, black, and brown.

When I first put an older version of these boots on, I was impressed by how light, warm, and cute they were. By all rights, they should be clunky, but they're not. UGG's boots look cute enough to pair with skinny jeans or leggings all winter long in even the snobbiest of cities.

These boots are tough enough to handle rural areas with tons of snow, too, so you really can't go wrong with them. In my mind, they're the perfect boots for just about everyone. The only downside is the high price, but they'll last you for years. After a full winter of use, mine are still going strong.

The best tall winter boots

The Sorel Joan of Arctic Boots are absolutely perfect for stomping through snowbanks and tackling intense winter conditions in style.

Pros: Tall boots, extra warm, rated for cold temperatures, good grip, comfortable, many color options

Cons: None to speak of

Sizing options: 5-11

When the winter winds blow up a crazy snowstorm and you have 6 feet of snow to contend with in sub-zero temperatures, you need some serious winter boots that will keep more than just your feet warm. Sorel's Joan of Arctic Boots are just the ticket.

These boots are nearly a foot tall, so they'll keep your entire calf warm and dry even in deep snow. The suede leather shaft is fully waterproof and a faux fur cuff finishes the boots off in style. They lace up from a sturdy vulcanized rubber section that covers your toes and keeps them dry.

Sorel says these boots can handle temperatures as low as -25°F or -32°C. The tread on the bottom is grippy and good for ice and snow. You can even get them in a number of different colors and styles if faux fur isn't your thing or you don't want leather.

When I first took them out of the box, I thought these boots would be super clunky and bulky, but looks are deceiving. Once they were on my feet, they looked great. I can easily see these boots being perfect for both the city and the country because they are super stylish yet rugged enough to take on serious snow.

The best slip-on snow boots

Avoid fussing with laces with the LaCrosse Women's Alpha Thermal Boots, which have incredibly warm insulation and a reliable outsole to keep you safe and dry in nasty weather.

Pros: Easy to slip on, waterproof, insulted down to -40°F, reliable outsoles to prevent slipping, lightweight, comfortable footbed, wide calf

Cons: Potentially too warm to wear at a restaurant or office

Sizing options: 5-11

All of the boots on our list will keep your feet warm and dry in snow and slush alike. But if you have to trudge through calf-deep powder to shovel your car or just run to the mailbox in wintry conditions, it's a serious pain to lace up your heavy-duty boots. LaCrosse's Women's Alpha Thermal Boots are ideal for winter activities where function is the driving factor. The upper is made from thick, waterproof rubber and neoprene for keeping snow, ice, and rain out up to your knees. 

Without laces, these boots offer protection against the element for people whose dexterity might be limited — or when you're running out the door to ski or grocery shop. The soft, neoprene upper has an adjustable gusset to expand or size down for varying calf size.

The inside is lined with fleece to keep your feet warm down to a whopping -40°. The boots are outfitted with a seriously grippy, thick-lugged outsole which helps minimize slipping on ice and keeps snow from clumping underfoot. At $160, these boots aren't a budget pick. But their versatile design and the durability of everything LaCrosse makes mean one pair will last years. — Rachael Schultz

The best light but tough winter boots

The Columbia Bugaboot IV Winter Boots protect your feet from the fierce cold of winter and wet icy slush puddles — plus, they're light on your feet.

Pros: Lightweight, very warm, rated for low temperatures, relatively affordable

Cons: A bit bulky, not the most attractive boots you'll ever see

Sizing options: 5-12

When you think about tough gear that'll last you through an epic snowstorm, chances are, Columbia comes to mind. The company's coats, boots, shoes, and other gear are known for being of the highest quality. Columbia's Bugaboot IV Winter Boots are no exception.

I tested an older version of these popular and very highly rated winter boots and came away impressed by how light and toasty warm they were. By the look of them, I expected these boots to be as heavy and awkward to wear as the old winter boots I used to wear to survive the brutal winters in upstate New York (right across from the Canadian border, so we're talking 6 feet of snow and -30 windchills here). Imagine my surprise when they turned out to be light and nimble like a good pair of hiking boots.

The secret is in their design: Columbia used a mix of waterproof leather and textiles on the uppers to keep out all the snow, slush, and wet of winter without adding any unnecessary weight. The 200 grams of insulation inside keep your feet piping hot, too. These boots are so cozy that Columbia says they can handle temperatures as low as -25°F or -32°C. 

Of course, it's not just the uppers that keep these boots light, it's also the special Techlite midsole and the Omni-Grip outsole that keep the weight down. Both are lightweight and specially designed for great comfort, stability, and traction on slippery surfaces. 

These are the kind of boots I'd want on my feet during the cold nasty winters in snowy climates. They're perfect for walks through the snowy woods, shoveling out your driveway, and heading out to the grocery store. They obviously will not win any beauty contests and those who have more mild winters or live in cities where style is more important than strength won't need tough boots like these.

However, for anyone who needs a super warm, waterproof, stable, and lightweight pair of winter boots that are ready for action, these are the ones I'd recommend.

The best stylish winter boots with a small heel

The Sorel Slimpack II Lace Boots are fully waterproof, slim, and cute with a slight heel and fun color options.

Pros: Slight heel, good traction, waterproof, slim, comfortable, warm

Cons: Not as rugged or warm as some

Sizing options: 5-11

If you don't want to wear clunky winter boots all the time, you may want a lighter, slimmer pair for days when there's less snow on the ground. These Slimpack Lace II boots from Sorel deliver. They have the distinctive duck boot design you see on many winter boots and rain boots, but Sorel adds cute little design elements like wool accents and fun laces to make them stand out.

The full-grain leather upper is fully waterproof as is the vulcanized rubber part that wraps around the lower part of your foot. You can splash in the rain or stomp through slush puddles in these boots without getting wet. The wool felt collar around the top of the boot adds warmth and style to the basic boots. Inside the boots, there's a nice microfleece lining that will keep your feet warm but not sweltering.

These are comfortable, breathable boots that Sorel says are best for heavy rain instead of snow. However, if you wear them with a nice thick pair of socks, they are perfect for cold winter days and a few feet of snow. The waterproof construction and the grippy outsole offer good traction on ice.

These boots even have a little heel that's just under two inches, which I appreciate as a 5-foot-2 lady. I love these Sorel boots and I wear them whenever it rains. In the winter, I wear them on days with light snow because they're both nice-looking and practical for the city streets.

If you need heavy-duty winter boots for extreme cold and snow, check out our other more rugged picks.

The best mid-calf winter boots

The Columbia Heavenly Omni-Heat Boots are super cozy and fully waterproof mid-calf winter boots that feel like light slippers on your feet.

Pros: Warm, comfortable, good traction, rated for very cold temperatures, higher rise

Cons: None

Sizing options: 5-12

If the other Columbia boots in our guide are just too clunky and rugged for your tastes, you'll love these Heavenly Omni-Heat boots. First things first: These boots look way cuter in person than they do online. When I put an older version of these boots on the first time, I knew I could easily wear them with skinny jeans or a dress and tights in the city without shame. Columbia has a bunch of fun colors, too, so you can buy the pair that'll look best with your style.

Believe it or not, these boots are just as warm, waterproof, and comfortable as the chunkier Bugaboots. The waterproof woven textile uppers hit your leg mid-calf and boast a cute faux fur lining that peeks out at the top and along the sides where you lace the boots up. They'll keep your feet and legs warm even in a foot or two of snow.

Columbia's Omni-Tech waterproof seam-sealed membrane keeps water, slush, and snow out of your boots while the 200 grams of insulation inside keep your feet and legs super warm. Just like the Bugaboots, these can withstand temperatures as cold as -25°F or -32°C, thanks to the Omni-Heat reflective lining.

These boots will fare just as well on the snowy city streets as they will in the driveway shoveling snow or out walking on snowy paths. I consider these boots to be the perfect stylish alternative for colder climates where you still need serious boots.

Other winter boots we love

• L.L. Bean Shearling-Lined Bean Boots ($195): L.L.Bean's boots are quintessential winter gear for a reason: They're extremely high quality. These classic duck-style Bean Boots are lined with real sheepskin shearling to keep your feet extra warm even in the cold winters of Maine where these boots are made.
• Columbia Newton Ridge Hiking Boot ($79.95): Although it isn't technically a winter boot, this stylish boot does an amazing job at keeping your feet dry and supported. It has amazing cushioning, and grippy outsoles to keep you sure-footed in the most slippery conditions. 
• Doc Marten 1460 Collar ($169.95):With their thick, rubber soles and amazing traction, Doc Martens are an ideal winter boot for people who aren't traipsing over snowy cliffs. They're not the boots you want to take on a hike through the woods, but they're perfect for those who live in the city and just need a sturdy shoe to get you to and from the subway. The shearling adds a nice touch, although you'll want to wear thick socks with these on particularly frigid days. 
• Timberland 6-inch Premium Waterproof Boots ($170): These boots have light PrimaLoft eco insulation to retain warmth and are made of responsibly sourced, waterproof leather on the outer. The footbed is comfortable, shock-absorbing, and has great traction on slippery surfaces. I bought these for slushy winter weather when I lived in New York City, but they're still my go-to boots after a snowstorm in my new home of Colorado. — Rachael Schultz

Check out our other winter gear guides

The best winter coats for women

The best winter coats for men

The best places to buy scarves online

The best thermal gloves

The best mittens

The best snow pants

• Utah is home to 15 ski areas, from laid-back local favorites to luxury resorts, so there's plenty of variety.
• We've rounded up the best ski resorts across the state, plus the best ski hotels to stay at for each area.
• It's peak ski season when prices surge, and hotels currently range from $219 to $747 per night to start.
• Read more: Is skiing safe right now? Here are the risk factors to weigh and precautions to take, according to an infectious disease doctor and ski resort representative.

With 10 ski resorts within an hour's drive of Salt Lake City — and just a short jaunt to a few more — it's tempting to try one or more of Utah's 15 ski resorts. Below, we detail our top picks for the best ski resorts in Utah, plus the best hotel in each area, including:

• Snowbasin
• Solitude Mountain
• Snowbird
• Sundance Mountain
• Park City
• Alta
• Deer Valley

If fresh mountain air and wide-open spaces sound good to you these days, you're not alone. Ski resorts are welcoming guests this year with a series of new COVID-related safety precautions in place to ensure a healthy season. We talked to experts who noted that skiing is a relatively low-risk activity, provided proper precautions are taken.

New COVID changes for many resorts for the 2020-2021 ski season include requiring face coverings, physical distancing (including on chairlifts and in gondolas), advance reservations for lift tickets (often granting priority to pass holders), limiting class size for lessons, reducing restaurant seating, and more. Many resorts are also limiting on-mountain capacity, especially for peak dates.

However, it's a good idea to check each resort's specific policies, and we've included links to that information for the resorts we've listed here. You can also check Utah's statewide COVID-19 updates for the latest local details.

While outdoor recreation is relatively safe, it's important to consider the risks of travel in general, and of staying in hotels. There is no guarantee of safety when it comes to travel right now, and we recommend following guidelines put forward by organizations like the CDC and WHO.

We've rounded up Utah's best ski resorts and chosen comfy hotels for each, based on the following criteria: 

1. Proximity to the ski lifts or base village is a top factor when choosing a ski hotel. While not all of these hotels are ski-in/ski-out, they are all within a few easy minutes walk, short shuttle, or easy drive to the slopes. 
2. All of the hotels we chose are well-appointed stays with attractive features, such as distinctive decor, good on-site dining options, and availability of other winter-friendly activities (like hot tubs or spa treatments).  
3. Most of these accommodations offer helpful amenities including ski storage, ski valets, and shuttle service. Many of the hotels also have a concierge who can help set up lift tickets and ski or snowboard lessons, so be sure to ask ahead.
4. Hotels near ski resorts are well-known for being very expensive, particularly during peak ski season. Generally speaking, the closer you stay to the slopes, the higher the price of the hotel. However, we've found a range of options to suit different budgets, with hotels starting from $219 to $747 per night currently. 

Here are the best ski resorts in Utah, plus the best ski hotels near each, sorted by price from low to high.

Snowbasin

Family-friendly Snowbasin, less than an hour north of Salt Lake City, offers big mountain skiing on 3,000 acres with 106 trails and 11 lifts covering 3,000 vertical feet of terrain. Snowbasin has been welcoming skiers since 1940, and it hosted the 2002 Winter Olympic Men's and Women's Downhill, Combined, Super-G, and Paralympic races.

But it's not just for experts: Snowbasin is an all-around resort for every ability level, and 50% of the trails are designated intermediate. Their three terrain parks are geared toward beginner and intermediate levels too.

Read updates on Snowbasin's season.

Opening day: November 25

Where to stay at Snowbasin: Compass Rose Lodge

Book Compass Rose Lodge starting at $219 per night

Down in the Ogden Valley, fifteen minutes away, Compass Rose Lodge is a true original, with an industrial-farmhouse style and a private, on-site observatory. The Lodge's look is steampunk-meets-barnyard, with wood, leather, and steel furnishings harmonizing with art by local artists. 

The Lodge's 15 rooms range from a King Deluxe to a Double Queen Bunk Room (with two twin beds cleverly lofted above two Queen beds). All have Beekman 1802 artisan bath products.

The First Lift Coffee shop is on-site, and lodge guests also have a complimentary continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free on-site parking. Ask about a star tour at the Huntsville Astronomic and Lunar Observatory (HALO) located in a silo adjacent to the main lodge. (The nearby North Fork Park is a designated Dark Sky Park.) Overnight guests get half-price tickets.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 3 out of 5 B&Bs in Huntsville

Hotels.com Rating: 9.2 out of 10

Pros: Friendly staff, clean rooms, convenient location near ski areas, shops, and restaurants.

Cons: It's not ski-in/ski-out, and there's a short drive to Snowbasin from the Lodge.

COVID-19 status and policies: The hotel is currently open with new procedures in place, including:

•   Enhanced cleaning and sanitizing protocols for the safety of guests and staff.
•   Masks are required for guests while in common areas.

Solitude Mountain

As its name suggests, Solitude Mountain is a peaceful spot in Big Cottonwood Canyon. This low-key resort is a local favorite, with 1,200 skiable acres, nine lifts, and 82 runs. The terrain is 50% Beginner and Intermediate, and 50% Advanced/Expert, with excellent off-piste options too. Kids four and under ski free.

Read updates on Solitude Mountain's season.

Opening day: November 20

Where to stay at Solitude Mountain: The Inn at Solitude

Book The Inn at Solitude starting at $277 per night

The Inn at Solitude is a Bavarian-themed lodge with a convenient ski-in/ski-out location on the edge of Solitude's small base village. The vibe is more comfortable than stylish, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Guests have access to a heated outdoor pool and hot tub at Club Solitude, along with the full-service Solitude Mountain Spa (offering only massages this year). St. Bernard's Restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, and drinks are available at the Library Bar. The Inn also offers a coin-operated laundry facility and free locker room access.

Guests can choose between 46 rooms, ranging from a 194-square-foot Deluxe King or Standard Queen (with two Queen beds) to the largest Double Queen with en-suite kitchen. All rooms are equipped with a mini-fridge, and Wi-Fi is free. Ask for a mountain view and a balcony.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 2 B&Bs in Solitude

Booking.com Rating: 8.9 out of 10

Pros: Parking is free, and the convenient location near the lifts is ideal.

Cons: The décor could use updating, there are limited dining options in the base village, and if you're looking for night life you should choose a different resort.

COVID-19 status and policies: The hotel is currently open with new procedures in place, including:

• Enhanced cleaning protocols are in place for all lodging units, including disinfection with electrostatic sprayers following each checkout.
• Reservations are required for the pool, hot tubs, pool table, and foosball table at Club Solitude. A 15-minute gap between reservations allows for disinfection of pool furniture, locker rooms, and games.
• Common areas in Club Solitude are disinfected twice daily with an electrostatic sprayer.

Snowbird

Snowbird is Alta's neighbor in Little Cottonwood Canyon — in fact, you can ski from one to the other if you buy a joint ticket — and both resorts benefit from the canyon's abundant snow.

Snowbird offers excellent skiing and snowboarding for all abilities on its 2,500 acres, with 14 lifts, and 140 trails. On top of that, Snowbird offers backcountry, heli-skiing, snowcat skiing, snowshoe, and snowmobile tours. The resort also boasts the longest ski season in Utah, from November through May if weather conditions permit.

Read updates on Snowbird's season.

Opening day: November 30

Where to stay at Snowbird: The Cliff Lodge and Spa

Book The Cliff Lodge and Spa starting at $350 per night

The Cliff Lodge and Spa combines big hotel amenities with an easy ski-in/ski-out location at the foot of the lifts. While it may look like a harsh concrete tower from the outside, The Cliff Lodge had a recent $35 million renovation, and the interior decor is modern and refreshed.

There's a handy on-site ski rental and repair shop, and each room is assigned a free ski locker with boot dryers. Guests can soak in a heated outdoor pool or three hot tubs on level three, or another rooftop pool and hot tub at The Cliff Spa, which includes a yoga studio and fitness center. The Lodge offers a grab-and-go café (The Atrium), and two restaurants: The Aerie, and SeventyOne.

The 514 rooms range from a 360-square-foot Bedroom with two Queen beds, to a 1,960-square-foot, two-bedroom suite. All units have a mini-fridge, coffee maker, and humidifier.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 2 out of 3 hotels in Snowbird

Booking.com Rating: 8.1 out of 10

Pros: Free on-site parking, excellent slopeside location.

Cons: Some reviewers have complained about long waits for the elevator, and access to the spa is $30 per day for hotel guests.

COVID-19 status and policies: The hotel is currently open with new procedures in place, including:

• Masks are required indoors and outdoors within the Snowbird Village and Tram (although not required when eating, swimming, or inside your hotel room). Masks are available for guests upon request.
• Enhanced hotel room cleaning with a focus on high-touch surfaces including door handles, kitchen areas, refrigerators, faucets, toilets, remote controls, directories, telephones, and alarm clocks.
• Frequent cleaning and disinfection of high-touch surfaces in common areas, such as fitness centers, swimming pools, hot tubs, elevators, stairwells, restrooms, and escalators.
• The hotel sanitizes payment systems, including pens and front desk area, after every guest.
• Non-essential items have been removed from hotel rooms including magazines, notepads, and pens.

Sundance Mountain

Robert Redford opened Sundance Mountain Resort in 1969, and it's been dazzling visitors ever since. "Sundance is an arts community, a recreational community, a community of people who appreciate the beauty of nature and feel the responsibility to preserve it," Redford says.

Surrounded by protected wilderness in the North Fork Canyon near Provo, Sundance offers 450 acres, 44 runs, and five lifts, with night skiing also available on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Thrill-seekers can also try the Winter Zip Tour, spanning 3,870 feet at speeds as fast as 65 miles-per-hour. It's the third-longest zip line in the country.

Read updates on the Sundance season.

Opening day: December 4

Where to stay at Sundance Mountain: Sundance Resort

Book Sundance Resort starting at $398 per night

Sundance offers rooms and suites designed with rustic elegance, featuring natural wood, stone, and leather, with Native American accents. Rooms range from a 398-square-foot Standard Room to a 947-square-foot Loft Suite with a fireplace, full kitchen, seating area, plus a patio. Some other room configurations also include fireplaces, and be sure to ask for a mountain view. All rooms include hand-blown recycled glasses from the Sundance Art Studio, Sundance Farms handmade soaps, two ski-lift tickets per night, and complimentary wellness classes, yoga, and nature walks.

The resort also rents a series of beautiful and architecturally distinct mountain homes, from two-bedroom cabins to seven-bedroom lodges. Some also have hot tubs.

Dining options include the fast-casual Sundance Deli, award-wining Tree Room, farm-to-table Foundry Grill, and the Sundance Food Truck. In-room delivery service is also available. Sundance's restored 1890s-era Owl Bar was relocated from Thermopolis, Wyoming. Formerly known as the Rosewood Bar, it was a favorite of Butch Cassidy's Hole in the Wall Gang.

Don't feel like skiing? Guests can visit the Spa at Sundance, or get creative at the Art Studio. A range of daily classes are available by appointment, from pottery to painting.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 1 hotel in Sundance

Booking.com Rating: 8.7 out of 10

Pros: Guests praise the resort's peaceful vibe, the "magical location," and "amazing scenery." Sundance also has free parking, with electric vehicle charging stations, and free Wi-Fi throughout the resort.

Cons: Restaurants can fill up quickly, so reserve a table in advance.

COVID-19 status and policies: The hotel is currently open with new procedures in place, including:

• Sundance requires guests to wear face coverings while visiting the property—in all buildings, public areas, walkways, while loading ski lifts, and in areas where social distancing is not possible.
• Guests are permitted to remove their face coverings when seated in dining areas or in outdoor areas where social distancing is possible.
• The resort reserves the right to refuse service to those who do not wear a face covering.
• Sundance is welcoming guests for lodging, dining, Spa, Art Studio, and mountain activities with social distancing restrictions in place to provide activities to our local community and to those looking to get outdoors. They are following State of Utah COVID-19 guidelines regarding proper social distancing and sanitation to ensure guests have plenty of space to enjoy time with their families.

Park City

As the nation's biggest ski resort, Park City is a mega-wonderland of winter fun for every age and ability level. With a whopping 341 trails spread out over 7,300 acres, served by 41 lifts, you'll never have to worry about getting bored. Beginners can learn on gentle terrain at the kid-friendly High Meadow Park, and snowboarders can test their skills on Park City's eight terrain parks and two halfpipes.

The resort has two base areas, Canyons Village and Mountains Village, and you can even ski directly onto Park City's historic Main Street.

Read updates on Park City's season.

Opening day: November 20

Where to stay at Park City: Hyatt Centric Park City

Book Hyatt Centric Park City starting at $449 per night

Hyatt Centric Park City has a perfect ski-in/ski-out location beside the Sunrise chairlift in the Canyons Village area. It's a big place, with a soft contemporary mountain style featuring soothing colors and wood accents.

The hotel's 120 units range from a 380-square-foot King guest room with kitchenette to one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom suites with full-size kitchens, living rooms, dining areas, and washer/dryer. All accommodations have gas fireplaces, bathrobes, free Wi-Fi, and mountain views. Some also have balconies or decks.

On-site amenities include Escala Provisions Company Restaurant & Bar, The Market (for grab-and-go eats), Aloha Ski & Snowboard Rental, and Wasatch Adventure Guides. There's also a heated outdoor pool and fitness center. Complimentary valet or self-parking is available in the hotel's underground garage, and they offer a free shuttle to downtown Park City.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 5 out of 59 hotels in Park City

Booking.com Rating: 8.7 out of 10

Pros: The hotel is pet-friendly (fees apply), and the location is convenient to the lifts.

Cons: Breakfast is not included in the overnight rate, and there's a $35 nightly resort fee.

COVID-19 status and policies: The hotel is currently open with new procedures in place, including:

•   All linens are sanitized in a high-temperature wash and toiletries are individually wrapped.
•   Face masks are required for guests and staff in public areas.
•   Floors are marked for social distancing and hand sanitizer is available.
•   High-traffic areas are regularly sanitized.
•   Staff are required to regularly wash their hands and get temperature checks.
•   The hotel has contactless check-in and check-out.
•   Doctors are available 24/7.
•   The hotel has introduced 24-hour minimum vacancy between guests.

Alta

Skiers love Alta for its fabulous powder (averaging 547 inches of snow each winter), its spectacular Little Cottonwood Canyon location, and for its authenticity. Alta opened in 1938, and it's one of America's oldest ski resorts.

But if you're a snowboarder, you've come to the wrong place. Alta only allows skiers on the 119 trails unfurling across its 2,614 acres of mountain terrain, with 55% advanced/expert runs and 45% beginner and intermediate.

Read updates on Alta's season.

Opening day: November 21

Where to stay at Alta: Alta Lodge

Book Alta Lodge starting at $516 per night

Considering the amount of snow that falls in the canyon, it's a wise decision to stay near the resort if you're skiing Alta. Located directly on the slopes, Alta Lodge has a cozy, old-school vibe, and staying here feels a little as though you're visiting family. There's a welcoming atmosphere with friendly service and a lobby that has the casual comfort of a living room. The decor is clean and modern, and there are stunning views of the mountain. 

The nightly rate at Alta Lodge includes hot breakfast, afternoon tea with baked goods, and an excellent four-course dinner. (To-go meals and dinner room service are available at no extra charge this year.) The nightly rate is based on double occupancy, but a single-occupancy rate is also available for $253.

57 rooms come in various configurations, from the 248-square-foot King and Standard Double rooms to the largest, 409-square-foot, Swiss Room with a private deck. Some rooms even have wood-burning fireplaces.

Guests can soak in two large, indoor hot tubs with mountain views, or take a complimentary yoga class each morning (with a virtual access option). A basement ski locker is assigned to each room, so it's easy to stow your gear. The family-friendly Lodge offers a free Kids' Club, and on select dates, kids 12 and under can even stay and eat free at Alta Lodge.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 5 specialty lodgings in Alta

Pros: You can't ask for a better ski-in/ski-out location. The staff are wonderful, and the meal service makes for an extra-relaxing stay.

Cons: There's no parking at the lodge, but a shuttle from Salt Lake City is available for an extra charge.

COVID-19 status and policies: The lodge is currently open with new procedures in place, including:

•   All linens are sanitized in a high-temperature wash and toiletries are individually wrapped.
•   Face masks are required for guests and staff in public areas.
•   Floors are marked for social distancing and hand sanitizer is available.
•   High-traffic areas are regularly sanitized.
•   Staff are required to regularly wash their hands and get temperature checks.
•   The hotel has contactless check-in and check-out.

Deer Valley

Deer Valley is a luxury, ski-only resort, with 2,026 acres on six mountains, 103 impeccably groomed runs, and 21 lifts. The guest services at Deer Valley are extensive, and include a curbside ski valet, complimentary ski and gear storage, and free parking. Ski tours with the resort's Mountain Hosts are free, and the Rossignol High Performance Test Center offers free demos of the latest gear.

Deer Valley limits the number of lift tickets sold each day, so you'll never feel crowded on the slopes. And if you've ever wondered what it's like to glide beside an Olympian, you can sign up for the resort's half- or full-day Ski with a Champion experience for an additional fee.  

Read updates on the Deer Valley season.

Opening day: December 5

Where to stay at Deer Valley: Stein Eriksen Lodge

Book Stein Eriksen Lodge starting at $747 per night

Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley mixes European elegance with mid-mountain, ski-in/ski-out convenience. The Lodge reflects the Norwegian heritage of Olympic ski legend and hotel founder Stein Eriksen. Known for its exceptional service and upscale chalet atmosphere, Stein Eriksen Lodge is grand yet cozy, with wooden beams, stone fireplaces, leather sofas and club chairs.

The amenities are lavish: two outdoor heated pools, hot tubs, and fire pits, plus a new 3,500-square-foot Champions Club game room and a 42-seat Freestyle Movie Theater that shows free films daily. The Spa at Stein Eriksen Lodge is Utah's only Forbes Five-Star spa.

The Lodge boasts an 18,000-bottle wine cellar and restaurants including the award-winning Glitretind (check out their Sunday Jazz Brunch), the Troll Hallen Lounge with deck dining and après-ski specials, and First Tracks Kaffe for takeaway treats.

Lodge Bedrooms come in a variety of layouts, ranging from 375 to 700 square feet. Some have gas fireplaces, private balconies or decks, and private hot tubs. All rooms have blackout curtains, jetted tubs, bathrobes, and slippers. Luxury Suites—from 1,200 to 4,900 square feet, with one to five bedrooms—feature fireplaces in both the living room and master bedroom, plus full kitchens, and dining areas. Grand Suites—from 800 to 3,000 square feet—offer high-end amenities including a full European kitchen and private deck.

Winter services here are top-notch: Ski valets warm your boots and set your skis out for you each morning, there are complimentary lockers for hotel guests, and there's free hot cocoa and apple cider when you need a pick-up. The adjacent Stein Eriksen Sport Shop can take care of ski or snowboard rentals. And if you're in the mood for a jolly horse-drawn sleigh ride? The Lodge can arrange that too.

Stein Eriksen Lodge offers free Wi-Fi, a Tesla charging station, and a complimentary shuttle to downtown Park City.

TripAdvisor Ranking: 2 out of 59 hotels in Park City

Booking.com Rating: 9.3 out of 10

Pros: The Lodge's superb service and location win repeat customers.

Cons: Valet parking only, and there's a $35 per night resort fee.

COVID-19 status and policies: The hotel is currently open with new procedures in place, including:

•   Face masks are required for guests and staff in public areas.
•   Floors are marked for social distancing.
•   Hand sanitizer is available to guests and staff.
•   High-traffic areas are regularly sanitized.
•   Staff are required to regularly wash their hands.
•   Staff are required to have regular temperature checks.
•   The hotel has contactless check-in and check-out.
•   The hotel requires 24-hour minimum vacancy between guests.
•   Read more here.

More great ski vacation ideas

• The best ski vacation rentals in the US
• The best ski hotels in the US
• The best ski resorts in Colorado and where to stay
• The best East Coast ski resorts and where to stay

Noubar Afeyan loves basketball. In his free time, he roots for the Boston Celtics, a team he supported even before enrolling at MIT in the same city (he also likes the Patriots and the Red Sox). He loves to play recreationally — but he's had to pause during the pandemic. 

Afeyan hasn't had much free time lately. That's because he's the cofounder and chairman of Moderna, the biotech firm that produced a vaccine shown to have 94.5% efficacy against the virus. 

COVID-19 caught the attention of Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel in January, even before the pandemic hit the US. Moderna got to work, and it shipped the first batches of its vaccine to the National Institutes of Health by February 24.

On December 17, an expert FDA panel endorsed the vaccine, and it was officially approved on December 18. Nationwide distribution began that weekend.

EU regulators authorized the vaccine on Wednesday, making it the second shot to be authorized in the EU.

Ahead of the Moderna vaccine's authorization, Insider spoke with Afeyan about the vaccine's development, including partial funding received from Dolly Parton, his experience as an immigrant founder and how it's shaped his worldview, his strategy of "parallel entrepreneurship," and of course a little basketball.

SEE ALSO: The vaccine breakthroughs at Pfizer and Moderna are the latest examples of how immigrants have been driving billions in American innovation for decades

SEE ALSO: Photos show the first batches of Moderna's coronavirus vaccine being packaged and shipped across the US

Afeyan, who is Armenian, grew up in Lebanon and lived there until he was 13.

Although he grew up in Lebanon and then Canada, Afeyan's Armenian background — and living in Armenian communities — has been an important part of his life. Throughout his career, he's focused on both entrepreneurial and philanthropic investment in Armenia.

He said he sees his philanthropy as "paying back for the various debts that I felt to Armenians for having been helped by others in surviving genocide and many other difficulties."

Afeyan's grandfather was a survivor of the Armenian genocide, in which 1.5 million Armenians died in the last days of the Ottoman Empire. Afeyan has written in The New York Times about continued violence against Armenians during the coronavirus pandemic.

At the age of 13, Afeyan's family moved from Lebanon to Canada during the Lebanese Civil War.

Prior to his move, he'd never seen snow before, he said.

Afeyan went on to attend high school and college in Canada.

He graduated from Loyola High School in Montreal in 1978, and went on to attend McGill University. He graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Chemical Engineering in 1983.

Afeyan then went to MIT to get his PhD in Biochemical Engineering; at the time, it was the only institution that offered the degree program.

"The field was being invented" while Afeyan and fellow students were doing their work, he said. 

"It wasn't clear what a biochemical engineer actually did when we were there," he said.

Then, in 1985, Afeyan had a transformative encounter. He had been sent to represent MIT at a National Science Foundation meeting in Washington DC, and he struck up a conversation with a fellow attendee over lunch. He told Afeyan how he had started a company that "made instruments for a new breed of engineers."

"I was sitting there listening to this thinking, 'Well, you know, I'm going to be a new breed of engineer,'" Afeyan said.

Later in the conversation, Afeyan learned his lunchtime companion was David Packard — the cofounder of Hewlett-Packard. He spent a "bunch of time" with Packard that day, learning what starting a company was all about.

When he returned to MIT from DC, Afeyan was determined to learn everything he could about starting a company. He began frequenting MIT's Sloan School of Management.

Afeyan said he was "kind of a stranger" at MIT's Sloan School at the time. "I wasn't doing an MBA. I was just trying to learn what innovation was, what management was."

He's now a senior lecturer at Sloan, where he's taught since 2000. 

Afeyan went on to found his first company, Perseptive Biosystems, at the age of 24.

He said he met with his first prospective investor just a day or so after "Black Monday," the historic stock market crash of 1987.

"In hindsight, it was a lucky break for me because after that just about any startup activity ceased, and I persisted because I was bent on trying to see if I could start a company," Afeyan said.

He said that he got around $300,000 in seed capital to launch the company. In 1989, Perseptive Biosystems "eventually attracted some venture capital."

Perseptive went public in 1992; in 1998, it was acquired by The Perkin-Elmer Corporation.

"Over that kind of 10-year journey until 1997, I probably made every mistake in the book," Afeyan said. But the company going public when he was around 29 gave him the opportunity to learn about the "messy, turbulent" world of startups early.

In 2000, Afeyan founded Flagship Pioneering, a company incubator.

Afeyan said entrepreneurs are known for going from one thing to the next (and then the next one after that).

"I didn't want to leave the first thing, because it was a great learning experience," he said.

So, instead, he came up with his own answer to serial entrepreneurship: "parallel entrepreneurship." Instead of founding a company and moving along, he would help cofound companies and continue to work with them. In 2000, Flagship Pioneering was born to do just that.

Flagship has now helped launch 41 companies, with an aggregate value of over $34 billion.

Moderna, which Afeyan cofounded in 2010, may be Flagship's most famous company right now.

When Afeyan started exploring the idea of an messenger RNA (mRNA) biotech in 2010, some research on mRNA was looking at it "as a potential way to transform cells."

Afeyan sought out his friend and colleague Bob Langer (who later became an early investor in Moderna). He asked Langer a key question: "Instead of doing these STEM cell experiments and using this for a laboratory setting, what if we could think about a way by which we could use the patient as a bio-reactor for their own drug?"

He said that, at the time, they didn't know if mRNA could get into the cells of animals or humans, or whether they could cause an immune reaction (spoiler alert: they can). 

"None of that work had ever been done. And that's kind of how Flagship Pioneering operates."

In 2018, Moderna had the biggest IPO in biotech history.

It was valued at $7.5 billion at the time. Afeyan owns over 2.1 million shares.

Moderna's vaccine also made headlines for a notable contributor: Country legend Dolly Parton donated $1 million to the research behind the vaccine.

Parton announced in April that she had donated $1 million to coronavirus research at Vanderbilt University; that research was part of the Moderna vaccine effort. The Dolly Parton COVID-19 Research Fund is listed as a supporter in a report for the New England Journal of Medicine on the Moderna coronavirus vaccine.

"Growing up, I did actually listen to her music and there were a number of memorable songs," Afeyan said. 

He lauded her public donation for both its size and the awareness it created.

"I think that's a terrific thing. It's a great act of generosity and providing resources to what's otherwise one of the important projects of our times."

His favorite Parton song? The classic "9 to 5."

So what comes next?

Afeyan said the vaccine — and the awareness its created around mRNA — will lead to "more science, more research, more products."

He said the public was only just made aware of mRNA in March, when the vaccine clinical trials began. But "there's a 10-year history that involves billions of dollars in investment, hundreds of people's hard work, hundreds of patents that have been filed."

In other words, the vaccine didn't just happen in the months since Moderna first began working on the coronavirus; it's the culmination of nearly a decade of research and invention. Now that Moderna and mRNA have that public visibility, there's more innovation to be done.

"That platform, we think, will give rise to dozens of additional new drugs and vaccines; we're intensifying our efforts already in this regard," Afeyan said.

Most of all, it will be a demonstration to the public "of the power of innovation and science coming to the aid of one of the biggest challenges of our lifetime."

• A good laundry detergent should easily remove stains and odors, ensure colors don't fade, and be cost-effective.
• Tide's Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent is our top choice because it's unscented, effective at cleaning, and less hazardous to children than pods. 

Laundry day probably won't ever be the highlight of your week, but a good laundry detergent can at least make the task a little easier and ensure you don't have to run your clothes through multiple cycles. 

A quality laundry detergent removes dirt, oil, and sweat from your clothing, leaves behind a fresh scent, doesn't fade or alter fabric color, doesn't break you out in an itchy rash, and doesn't empty your wallet. However, with shelves at stores full of laundry detergents to choose from, the number of options can actually be overwhelming. 

We've assembled this guide to the best laundry detergents that not only meet the basic requirements, but also go the extra mile. So whatever type of laundry detergent you prefer — pods, natural, unscented, sensitive formula — we have an option for you. If you're not sure which type of laundry detergent is best for your needs, jump to the bottom of this guide for more information.

Here are the best laundry detergents

• Best overall: Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent
• Best pods: Tide Pods 3 in 1 Turbo
• Best natural liquid: Puracy Natural Liquid Laundry Detergent
• Best natural powder: Charlie's Soap Laundry Powder
• Best pods for sensitive skin: All Free & Clear Mighty Pacs
• Best for babies: Molly's Suds Laundry Powder
• Best detergent bar for hand-washing: Zote White Laundry Bar Soap

Prices and links are current as of 1/6/21. We also updated formatting to bring you the most useful information faster.

SEE ALSO: The best rubber gloves for dishwashing and cleaning

The best overall

Tide's Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent is unscented, cleans effectively, and doesn't cost a crazy price.

Pros: Fragrance and dye-free, easy-pour bottle, very effective in any temperature of water

Cons: Some complaints that the liquid runs down the side of the bottle after using the measuring cap

Tide Free & Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent is hypoallergenic, with no dyes or perfumes that might irritate sensitive skin, but it still pulls no punches when it comes to getting dirt, stains, and odors out of your laundry.

Just use the measuring cup inside the cap to pour the right amount of liquid detergent into your washing machine, and let the cleaning begin. Your clothes will come out smelling fresh but without any strong fragrance. That's a good thing for people with allergies or skin sensitivity.

It's so gentle, in fact, that it's been recognized by both the National Eczema Association and the National Psoriasis Foundation as a recommended detergent. It's also phosphate-free, so it's better for the environment.

The best pods

Tide Pods 3 in 1 Turbo leave your clothes super-clean and smelling fresh, plus they help remove stains without fading fabric. 

Pros: Powerful formula really gets clothes clean and stain-free, childproof container

Cons: Fragrance is quite strong, so not suitable for those with sensitive skin, dangerous if ingested, not for homes with young kids

Toss one of these pods into your washing machine, turn on the water, pile your dirty laundry on top, and let the spin cycle work its magic. Tide Pods 3 in 1 Turbo combine detergent, stain remover, and color protectant in one small pod; no need to measure, pour, or deal with a soapy, slippery bottle.

The formula is safe for HE washers, and won't leave soap residue or require extra rinse cycles. There are several pleasant fragrances to choose from, but they are all fairly strong, so keep that in mind Those with sensitive skin may find the fragrance to be irritating.

Another key thing to note is that any household with young children or elderly people with dementia shouldn't buy pods due to the poison hazard. We only recommend pods to households with grown adults who are not likely to pop a pod in their mouths. These things are toxic, and many people have died or become seriously ill from ingesting these pods.

Take care, use common sense, and keep pods away from those who might mistake them for food or a toy, and you'll be fine.

The best natural liquid

Some natural laundry detergents aren't very effective, but Puracy's Natural Liquid Laundry Detergent gets your laundry clean and fresh.

Pros: No potentially irritating or environmentally unfriendly ingredients

Cons: The pump may leak

No phosphates, sulfates, petrochemicals, animal by-products, chlorine, perfumes, gluten, tree nut-based ingredients, dyes, or allergens are present in Puracy's Natural Liquid Laundry Detergent, so no matter what sensitivities you may have, Puracy's got you covered.

The company uses plant-derived enzymes to remove sweat, oil, dirt, and other grunge from your laundry, leaving behind fresh, clean fabric that won't irritate sensitive skin — even the delicate skin of newborns.  

You don't need to use a lot of this highly concentrated formula. Just two pumps are enough for the average load, making this an economical as well as effective detergent. It's safe for HE machines and works equally well in cold or hot water and on all washable fabrics.

The best natural powder

If you prefer powder detergent and you want a natural formula that won't irritate your skin, the environment, or your bank account, get Charlie's Soap Laundry Powder.

Pros: No fragrance or other irritating ingredients, very economical, safe for HE machines and all types of washable fabrics

Cons: May not work well with hard water

The biodegradable formula is easy on the environment and safe for septic tanks. Charlie's Soap Laundry Powder is also hypoallergenic, with no brighteners, perfumes, dyes, or phosphates.

But that doesn't mean it's weak on cleaning. This laundry powder easily washes away all manner of odors and dirt, leaving behind clean, fresh fabric with no detergent residue.

You only need a tablespoon of the powder for most loads, so you'll get 100 loads of laundry out of the 2.6-pound bag. That's pennies per load, making Charlie's Soap Laundry Powder as gentle on your wallet as it is on your clothing.

The best pods for sensitive skin

All Free & Clear Mighty Pacs are as easy on your skin as they are tough on laundry grime.

Pros: Hypoallergenic, safe for HE washer and all types of washable fabrics, safe for septic systems

Cons: Sometime pods do not fully dissolve in the wash, dangerous if ingested, not for homes with kids

Laundry detergent pods are undeniably easy to use — Just toss one into your machine, followed by your laundry. No need to measure or pour. But too many laundry pods are filled with strong fragrances and other sensitive skin no-no's. That's where All Free & Clear Mighty Pacs are different.

These hypoallergenic laundry pods are 100% free of fragrance and dyes, but they are still mighty effective at cleaning even your stinkiest gym clothes.

Just note that any household with young children or elderly people with dementia shouldn't buy pods due to the poison hazard. We only recommend pods to households with grown adults who are not likely to pop a pod in their mouths. These things are toxic, and many people have died or become seriously ill from ingesting these pods.

Take care, use common sense, and keep pods away from those who might mistake them for food or a toy, and you'll be fine.

The best for babies

If you want the purest, most natural ingredients in your laundry detergent, but don't feel like making your own, Molly's Suds Laundry Powder is the next best thing.

Pros: Limited, natural ingredients for a hypoallergenic formula safe for even the most sensitive skin

Cons: More expensive than more common brands

Forget about a lengthy list of ingredients you can't even pronounce, much less understand — Molly's Suds Laundry Powder has only five ingredients, and every one of them is natural: sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, magnesium sulfate, unrefined sea salt, and peppermint oil.

The result is a laundry powder that doesn't create suds in the wash, but does get your clothes, sheets, towels, and reusable diapers clean, fresh, and faintly scented with peppermint. It's great for the delicate skin of newborns, as well.

You can use this laundry powder in your HE machine, on all types of washable fabrics, and in hot or cold water. Pour the scoop of detergent directly into your washing machine drum, not into the dispenser, for the best results.

The best detergent bar for hand-washing

If you like to hand wash or pre-treat clothes, Zote's White Laundry Soap Bar will remove most stains, oils, and odors from fabric with scrubbing.

Pros: Lasts a long time, great for handwashing, pre-treats stains, gets oil out

Cons: Not for the washing machine unless you alter it, contains animal products

Lots of clothing requires handwashing, and there's no better laundry detergent for handwashing than Zote's White Laundry Soap Bar.

Made by Mexican company Fábrica de Jabón la Corona, Zote is popular among Latin Americans. Those who do not have immediate access to a washing machine swear by it. It's excellent at taking stains, oils, and odors out of fabric without damaging delicate items.

Zote is ideal for handwashing laundry or pre-treating nasty stains before you throw everything in the wash. The ingredient list is fairly decent. The soap contains sodium tallowate (beef tallow), sodium cocoate (coconut oil), citronella oil for a lemony scent, and optical brighteners.

I use it to handwash a lot of my clothing, and it works surprisingly well. A bar of Zote soap lasts quite a long time, too, so you'll spend less on laundry detergent in the long run. — Malarie Gokey

What type of laundry detergent should I use?

Liquid detergent

Liquid detergent is easily the most popular type of laundry detergent on the market. You'll find shelves and shelves of it at your local grocery store in a variety of scents. It falls right in between powder and pods where cost-per-load is concerned, and it can double as a stain-remover or pre-treater if applied directly to most fabrics. Easy access and familiarity lead many to reach for liquid detergent, but it's got its downsides too.

For one, it's quite difficult to determine how much liquid detergent to actually use. The measuring lines on the cap are often hard to see, leading many to overuse liquid detergent. And contrary to what you might think, more soap doesn't lead to cleaner clothes. If you use too much, your machine won't be able to efficiently wash it all away, leaving behind residue that could irritate your skin. Not to mention the fact that you're simply throwing away money by wasting product.

Detergent pods

Topping the list for convenience are the brightly colored detergent pods that if you weren't familiar with a few years ago you've certainly heard of now thanks to a viral internet phenomenon we dare not mention. These single-use packs contain a precise amount of highly concentrated detergent housed in a water-soluble skin that dissolves completely. This means no guesswork as to how much to use. Simply toss one into your laundry and you're all set.

Where it also tops the list is in cost-per-load. These little pods are by far the most expensive way to get your laundry clean. They're also, as we know, quite tempting to children due to their bright colors and squishy appearance, and they pose a poison risk. If you use them, be sure to keep them on a high shelf out of the reach of anyone who might be inclined to bite into one.

Powdered detergent

Powdered detergent has fallen out of favor since the rise of liquid detergent in the 1970s, but it still reigns supreme in one arena — price. Powdered detergent doesn't have the disadvantage of water weighing it down, so you get much more product for your money, driving down its cost-per-load to mere pennies in some cases. It's also easier to measure than liquid detergent and its cardboard packaging is much more eco-friendly than the plastic jugs that house liquids.

On the other hand, it's probably the easiest to spill as scooping or pouring come with their inconveniences. Certain powdered detergents may have trouble dissolving in cold water, which could leave residue both on your clothes and in your machine.

Check out our other cleaning supplies guides

• The best hand soap
• The best floor cleaners
• The best mops
• The best stainless steel cleaners
• The best drain cleaners

With the latest results from Georgia's Senate elections, Democrats are set to control both Congress and the presidency when Joe Biden takes office on January 20.

That scenario, dubbed a "Biden Blue Wave," is set to provide a major catalyst for the US cannabis industry, according to analysts.

Cowen analyst Vivien Azer has previously said that with a Democratic-controlled government, cannabis-related legislation — like the STATES Act and MORE Act — would have better chances of passing through Congress, creating big opportunities for the US industry.

According to projections from Insider and Decision Desk HQ, both of Georgia's Democratic candidates won their Senate seats, meaning Democrats will control the upper chamber when Biden takes office.

Last month, the US House of Representatives, where Democrats are also in control, voted for the first time on a bill to decriminalize cannabis. The bill was expected to face opposition from a Republican-controlled Senate.

The bill, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act, or MORE Act, would end criminal penalties for anyone who sells cannabis in states where that's legal, decriminalize the use of cannabis throughout the US, and formally allow states to chart their own course in establishing commercial marijuana sales if it becomes law.

Cannabis is also gaining ground on the state level. Five states voted to legalize cannabis in some form in November's elections.

New Jersey, Arizona, South Dakota, and Montana voted in favor of legalizing cannabis for all adults over the age of 21. South Dakota also passed a medical cannabis measure, as did deep-red Mississippi.

To the cannabis industry, New Jersey presents the biggest opportunity. Companies are racing to take advantage of the New Jersey market, which has millions of prospective consumers within the state, as well as easy access to New York City and Philadelphia.

Even with Democrats holding a slim Senate majority, the passage of cannabis legislation is far from certain.

In a Wednesday note, Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Pablo Zuanic said that "the investment debate now is more about the priority cannabis reform will take over perhaps other more pressing matters for the Biden Administration, and on what types of reforms will the VP-elect Harris tie-breaker vote be used (assuming no Republicans support MJ reform)."

He added, "this is the focus now (scope and timing), as opposed to very limited changes under a Republican-controlled Senate." Still, the Democratic victories are likely to boost investment in the industry, he continued.

Cowen's Vivien Azer said in a January 6 note that the Democratic win in Georgia, and consequential Democratic control of Congress, "opens the door for enactment of cannabis legalization" over the next two years.

Azer says that she sees the passage of the STATES Act, which ultimately gives individual states the power to regulate their own cannabis laws without federal intervention, as the bill "most likely" to pass. The MORE Act is also possible, Azer writes, though she added that the legislation may "be a step too far for moderate Democrats."

"In either case, we expect Congress will give cannabis companies access to commercial banking and insurance," Azer wrote. "We also see medical cannabis being protected. Capital markets access is largely dependent upon enactment of either the STATES Act or the MORE Act." 

Meanwhile, states are moving to implement legalization measures that voters approved in November.

To put together this ballot tracker, Business Insider tapped a variety of sources to explain the nuances of each state's ballot measures and where polling stood prior to the votes. We've also included market-size projections to give a sense of how important each state could become for businesses and investors.

Here's everything you need to know about the new wave of US cannabis legalization:

This article was published on October 9. It has been updated with election results, the results of the House vote on the MORE Act, and Georgia's Senate results on January 6.

New Jersey

What's in the law: New Jersey residents voted on Public Question 1. Under the amendment, cannabis will be taxed and regulated for adults over the age of 21.

Gov. Phil Murphy has long called on the state to legalize cannabis, though previous efforts to do so through the legislature have fallen flat.

It's not likely that people in New Jersey will be able to legally purchase marijuana for some time. The constitutional amendment would have taken effect on January 1, but the state has yet to pass new rules for the legal cannabis market. Murphy held off signing legislation passed by state lawmakers because he wanted a change in the bill to fine underaged individuals found with cannabis.

Gov. Murphy's proposed changes are currently underway, as reported by NJ.com on January 6.

"There's some final technical edits that still need to be made. By and large, the governor's office is working in good faith with the Legislature to get this finalized for next week," a source within the administration told NJ.com.

The ballot measure subjects recreational cannabis products to a 6.65% sales tax. Local municipalities with dispensaries will also be able to put their own taxes on marijuana — capped at 2%.

Which companies will benefit: Curaleaf, Acreage Holdings, and Green Thumb Industries, Cowen says. 

Why it matters: New Jersey is a big market itself. But cannabis legalization in the state has long been seen as a catalyst that could also spur its neighbors — including New York, an economic powerhouse, and Pennsylvania, a swing state — to legalize as well.

Prospective market size: Annual sales of up to $950 million by 2024, per industry publication Marijuana Business Daily's annual factbook. 

Arizona

What's in the law: Arizona residents voted to pass Proposition 207, which sets up a regulatory system for the commercial cultivation and sale of marijuana. Adults over the age of 21 will be able to possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis.

The program will be headed by the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), which currently oversees the state's medical marijuana program. ADHS is required to lay out the state's adult-use cannabis regulations by April 5, 2021. 

Qualified early applicants, namely medical dispensaries currently operating in Arizona, will be given the opportunity to submit early applications for recreational licenses between January and March of 2021, after which remaining licenses will be distributed by random selection.

At the earliest, a company will be able to submit their application on Jan 19. From there, ADHS has 60 days to make a decision on applications, meaning that sales could begin as early as late March or early April.

Harvest Health & Recreation CEO Steve White told Business Insider in November that the company plans to follow that timeline. With more than a dozen stores in the state, White says that the passage of the ballot marks "the most significant law change that we could hope for as an organization."

"I can't overstate how big of a deal it is," he said.

Which companies will benefit: Cresco Labs and Curaleaf, Cowen says. Harvest Health & Recreation also has significant operations in the state. 

Why it matters: A 2016 vote to legalize marijuana was narrowly defeated in Arizona after a deep-pocketed opposition campaign. While the opposition was less organized in 2020 than in 2016, the state's Republican governor, Doug Ducey, and the Arizona Chamber of Commerce did not support the measure.

Prospective market size: Up to $790 million in annual sales by 2024, according to Marijuana Business Daily.

South Dakota

What's in the law: South Dakota passed both medical and adult-use cannabis bills, marking the first time a state has voted in favor of medical and recreational cannabis at the same time.

Measure 26 legalizes medical cannabis and sets up a system to let patients with qualifying conditions get the drug. Amendment A legalizes the consumption and possession of up to 1 ounce of cannabis for adults over the age of 21 and also automatically incorporates Measure 26 as the state's medical program.

It could take some time before South Dakotans can purchase marijuana in the state. State lawmakers and regulators have until April 2022 to craft cannabis rules, such as for dispensaries.

People will be allowed to possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis for recreational use under Amendment A. Under the state's new medical program, patients with "debilitating medical conditions" will be allowed access to cannabis after receiving registration cards from the Department of Health.

Which companies will benefit: While a new market is beneficial to US cannabis companies, South Dakota is likely too small to be of central importance, Cowen says.

Why it matters: South Dakota is the first state to pass a medical and recreational cannabis at the same time. Normally, states have robust medical programs in place before putting the recreational-legalization question in front of voters or the legislature.

Prospective market size: $100 million across medical and recreational by 2025, according to Cowen.

Montana

What's in the law: Montana residents voted in favor of two separate cannabis measures to legalize recreational marijuana in the state.

Ballot issue I-190 allows adults over the age of 21 to purchase, possess, and consume cannabis while CI-118 allows the state to set a minimum age for cannabis possession. I-190 also sets up a strict residency requirement for Montana's cannabis industry, meaning local operators will benefit most. 

Marijuana officially became legal on January 1, 2021 for adults over 21 to possess and consume, but the state will not start accepting dispensary applications until a year after that, meaning the rollout will take some time.

Which companies will benefit: Montana's law favors local operators over multistate companies. Plus, Montana only has about 1 million residents, meaning that it won't be a large market for any multistate operators.

Why it matters: Montana is a small Western state with a libertarian streak. Though it has voted for Republicans in federal elections since 2008, cannabis legalization is not a highly controversial issue in the state.

Prospective market size: A University of Montana study found that legalizing cannabis could generate $260 million in sales by 2026. 

Mississippi

What's in the law: Mississippi residents voted on two competing medical-cannabis measures. Initiative 65, which ultimately won, allows doctors to recommend medical cannabis to patients with qualifying conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder, cancer, and multiple sclerosis. The measure also allows for the cultivation and sale of medical cannabis in the state.

The competing measure proposed by the state's legislature, Initiative 65A, was more restrictive, and failed to garner support. 

Mississippi's new program will be headed by the state Department of Health. The agency has until August 15, 2021, to issue medical marijuana cards.

Qualifying Mississippians will be allowed to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana at one time if they receive a recommendation from a doctor. The state will tax medical cannabis sales at a rate of 7%.

Which companies will benefit: Not specified 

Why it matters: Mississippi is the latest deep-red state after Oklahoma to legalize medical cannabis. While it's not likely the state will push for recreational cannabis anytime soon, the move is another clear sign that even strongly Republican states are in favor of increasing access to medical marijuana.

Prospective market size: Annual sales could hit $800 million by 2024, per Marijuana Business Daily.

Every day, we round up the 5 best deals and bargains available on tech, home goods, fashion, and more. 

We've sorted this list with the best deals first. The prices and discounts are accurate at the time of publication but are subject to change without warning. For even more deals and savings across the web, check out the best online deals and sales happening now and Business Insider Coupons.

1. Lodge 12-inch cast iron skillet

Product Embed:
Product Name: Lodge Pre-Seasoned 12 Inch. Cast Iron Skillet
Card Type: medium
https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5fe37528f74e3059b52053e6&type=medium&live=true
Width: 100%
Height: 150%

Check our guide to the best cast iron skillets and pans.

2. Apple Watch Series 6

Product Embed:
Product Name: Apple Watch Series 6 (40mm, GPS)
Card Type: medium
https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5f6cfb0302495a07337f0624&type=medium&live=true
Width: 100%
Height: 150%

Check our guide to the best smart watches.

3. Our Place Always Pan

Product Embed:
Product Name: Our Place Always Pan
Card Type: medium
https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5e58118cfee23d17943a1ea5&type=medium&live=true
Width: 100%
Height: 150%

Learn more about Our Place and read our full review.

4. Final Fantasy VII Remake for PlayStation 4

Product Embed:
Product Name: Final Fantasy VII Remake for PlayStation 4
Card Type: medium
https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5fbd3b7c35c2d94a7e1b1607&type=medium&live=true
Width: 100%
Height: 150%

Check our round-up of the best PlayStation deals.

5. ThermoWorks Thermapen Mk4

Product Embed:
Product Name: ThermoWorks Thermapen Mk4
Card Type: medium
https://produktor.businessinsider.com/productCardService?id=5fc1d480e1823201f07f5aa3&type=medium&live=true
Width: 100%
Height: 150%

Check our guide to the best meat thermometers.

Many resale platforms have experienced a boom in sales and users in recent months, thanks to more consumers shopping online from the comfort of their own homes as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

According to research from ThredUp, the total secondhand market is projected to grow from $28 billion to $64 billion by 2025 despite current headwinds faced across the entire retail industry.

The multi-billion dollar resale industry is rapidly gaining momentum in sectors like luxury items, sneakers, and apparel. As a result, platforms like Poshmark, StockX, and OfferUp have experienced a surge in users or sales since the spring. Many of these digitally native platforms are currently also hiring for a variety of positions across different departments, including design, engineering, and product management.

Read more:Target just announced a diversity push across its workforce. Here's how much the big-box retailer pays its tech workers, from software engineers to managers.

The Office of Foreign Labor Certification discloses salary data each year after US companies report how much base compensation workers are offered when filing paperwork for visas on behalf of current or prospective foreign workers.

Business Insider analyzed the US Office of Foreign Labor Certification's disclosure data from 2018 to 2020 for permanent and temporary foreign workers to see how much some resale platforms paid employees for roles in different departments.

Here's how much people make at growing resale platforms like StockX, eBay, Poshmark, and more.

SEE ALSO: 10 CEOs of top resale apps like Poshmark and Stadium Goods predict how the pandemic will bolster the multi-billion dollar resale industry

The RealReal

Julie Wainwright, the CEO of The RealReal, said last year that the luxury consignment retailer had the advantage of being a digitally native brand that could quickly adapt to a new normal brought about by the pandemic. As an example, the company quickly pivoted to virtual consignment appointments to facilitate a curated shopping experience for users. 

When it comes to resale, Wainwright said the general embrace of the category within retail has only sped up amid the pandemic. For The RealReal, that has meant a tenfold increase in demand from new brands to become business sellers on the site.

As of the end of 2019, The RealReal employed more than 2,300 people across authentication centers and global offices. The company is currently hiring for a variety roles, including engineers, designers, and team managers.

For the US, The RealReal applied for 25 H-1B visas for these and other roles. Most of these jobs listed were based at the company's headquarters in San Francisco, California.

Senior software engineer: average salary of $132,500

According to two approved visa applications from The RealReal, senior software engineers make between $130,000 and $135,000.

Senior marketing analyst: average salary of $130,000

According to two approved visa applications from The RealReal, senior marketing analysts make $130,000.

Director of business intelligence: average salary of $188,750

According to two approved visa applications from The RealReal, a director of business intelligence makes between $185,000 and $192,500.

Head of information security: salary of $230,000, according to one approved visa application from The RealReal.

Director of engineering, buyer web: salary of $220,000, according to one approved visa application from The RealReal.

OfferUp

OfferUp, a marketplace that connects local buyers and sellers, said in June that it had seen an increase in users, sold items, and posted items on its site since the pandemic began.

OfferUp cofounder and CEO Nick Huzar said the platform, which has been downloaded by more than 90 million people to date, has helped people find secondary sources of income during the pandemic. 

OfferUp employs 400 people in offices in Washington and Florida, an OfferUp spokesperson confirmed. The platform is currently hiring for roles across different departments. 

"We meet all LCA filing requirements for our visa applications and have a competitive compensation program, based on a variety of factors, for all of our employees," the spokesperson said. 

For the US, OfferUp applied for 54 H-1B visas for these and other roles. These jobs listed were based at the company's headquarters in Bellevue, Washington, and Miami, Florida.

Software development engineer, backend: average salary of $113,531

According to 19 approved visa applications from OfferUp, backend software development engineers make between $99,400 and $177,600.

Software development engineer, Android: salary of $99,400, according to four approved visa applications from OfferUp.

Senior risk intelligence data analyst: average salary of $98,750

According to three approved visa applications from OfferUp, senior risk intelligence data analysts make between $95,000 and $106,250.

Data scientist: salary of $120,000, according to three approved visa applications from OfferUp.

Senior product manager, user interface (UI): salary of 132,080, according to one approved visa application from OfferUp.

eBay

eBay employs more than 10,000 people across the globe and is currently hiring for about 400 positions, with over half of those openings to be based in the US. 

An eBay spokesperson said the company has expanded its employee wellness, mental health, and child-care programs during the pandemic, as many employees continue to work from home.

"Working from home requires different equipment needs for employees, and we have supported our teams as they make this transition to creating home workspaces by providing payment to cover office equipment and other needs," the spokesperson said.

For the US, eBay applied for 2,168 H-1B visas for these and other roles, many of which offer salaries around or above six figures. Most of these jobs listed in the US are based in the company's headquarters in San Jose, California.

For a detailed breakdown of salaries at eBay, read our full story here.

Engineering roles:

Software engineer: average salary of $164,535, according to a sample of 294 approved visa applications for the company. People with this title make between $110,000 and $252,000. 

Hardware engineer: average salary of $113,000, according to a sample of three approved visa applications for eBay. All three people with this title make $113,000.

Research engineer: average salary of $145,600, according to a sample of five approved visa applications for eBay. People with this title make between $123,000 and $165,000.

Design roles:

Senior designer: average salary of $167,040, according to a sample of two approved visa applications for eBay. Both people with this title make $167,040.

User interface designer: average salary of $154,483, according to a sample of two approved visa applications for eBay. People with this title make between $145,000 and 163,966.

Director of design research: salary of $228,777, according to one approved visa application.

Finance and accounting roles:

Finance manager: average salary of $148,625, according to a sample of two approved visa applications for eBay. Both people with this title make $148,625.

Accounting manager: average salary of $117,250, according to a sample of four approved visa applications for eBay. People with this title make between $103,500 and $132,000.

Tax accountant: average salary of $90,000, according to a sample of two approved visa applications for eBay. Both people with this title make $90,000.

Other roles:

Vice president/chief revenue officer: salary of $335,000, according to approved visa applications for eBay.

Lead product manager, technical: average salary of $206,610, according to a sample of 10 approved visa applications for eBay. People with this title make between $202,527 and $220,000. 

Legal counsel: salary of $185,000, according to a sample of three approved visa applications for eBay.

Data scientist: average salary of $128,877, according to a sample of 21 approved visa applications for eBay. People with this title make between $100,000 and $150,000.

thredUp

Resale marketplace thredUp is another of multiple resale platforms that saw an uptick in site engagement and sellers during the pandemic. In June, thredUp CEO and cofounder James Reinhart said a wave "conscious" shopping among consumers was making value a major priority.

ThredUp recently filed paperwork for a US initial public offering (IPO) in October.

ThredUp is also currently hiring for a variety of roles across the US. As of August of 2019, thredUp employed over 1,200 people worldwide, including a variety of engineers, analysts, product managers, and warehouse employees. Many of these positions offer salaries around or above six-figures. And while it is not rare for some employees' income to go up after a company files for an IPO, length of tenure or how many stock options an employee owns can factor into that added compensation.

For the US, thredUp applied for 42 H-1B visas for these and other roles. All of these jobs listed are based in the company's headquarters in San Francisco, California, or in its Scottsdale, Arizona, office. ThredUp did not provide a comment for this story.

For a detailed breakdown of salaries at thredUp, read our full story here.

Software engineer: average salary of $108,380, according to seven approved visa applications from thredUp. People with this title made between about $80,000 and $125,000.

Senior engineer, infrastructure: salary of $150,000, according to three approved visa applications from thredUp.

Data engineer: average salary of $127,500, according to four approved visa applications from thredUp. People with this title made between $125,000 and $135,000.

Machine learning engineer: average salary of $165,000, according to four approved visa applications from thredUp. People with this title made between $145,000 and $185,000.

Copywriter: salary of $70,000, according to three approved visa applications from thredUp.

Search engine marketing (SEM) analyst: salary of $62,400, according to two approved visa applications from thredUp. 

Growth marketing specialist: salary of $110,000, according to two approved visa applications from thredUp.

Poshmark

Poshmark's cofounder and CEO Manish Chandra said in May that resale will likely emerge as a leading player in a new retail landscape that is based on personalization and immersive experiences. The peer-to-peer shopping platform quietly filed for an IPO in September, and on January 6 set the terms for its 2021 public offering.

For a detailed breakdown of salaries at Poshmark, read our full story here.

As of December 15, 2020, Poshmark employs over 500 people across the globe, including a variety of engineers, analysts, and product managers. Many of these positions offer salaries around or above six-figures. Poshmark is currently hiring for a variety of positions. 

For the US, Poshmark applied for 32 H-1B visas for these and other roles. All of these jobs listed are based in the company's headquarters in Redwood City, California. Poshmark declined to comment for this story. 

Software engineers: salaries range between $110,000 and $190,000.

According to five approved visa applications from Poshmark, people with the title "software engineer"— a more junior role — made between $110,000 and $130,000. Meanwhile, the average salary for a senior software engineer is $160,000. People in this role can also make up to $190,000, Insider found.

Staff engineer: salaries range between $190,000 and $195,000, according to three approved visa applications from Poshmark.

Data analyst: salaries range between $100,000 and $131,000, according to five approved visa applications from Poshmark.

Business analyst: salaries range between $70,000 and $120,000, according to three approved visa applications from Poshmark.

Below are some sample salaries for managers according to individual visa applications from Poshmark:

StockX

StockX, a leading resale platform for sneakers, streetwear, and other collectibles, announced in a July report that it had surpassed $10 million lifetime sales and had its two biggest sales months ever in May and June. 

The Detroit, Michigan, based startup employs more than 1,000 people across nine authentication centers and global offices. The company is currently hiring for over a 100 roles, including engineers, directors, and analysts.

For the US, StockX applied for 12 H-1B visas for these and other roles. All of these jobs listed were based at the company's headquarters in Michigan.

According to a StockX spokesperson, the salaries cited in the by the office of foreign labor are not representative of its current employee base across the globe. StockX uses resources like Radford, Salary.com, and PayScale to keep its compensation competitive. 

"We continue to actively recruit candidates at home around the world with a diverse range of experiences and unique skill sets," the spokesperson said. "StockX is committed to affording its team members competitive compensation packages that are inclusive of salary, equity and benefits, and are backed by various global market data sources."

Software engineer: average salary of $67,990

According to four approved visa applications from StockX, software engineers make between $61,963 and $70,000. This is for an entry level position.

Creative brand director: average salary of $165,000

According to three approved visa applications from StockX, creative brand directors make about $165,000.

Director of influencer marketing: salary of $135,000, according to one approved visa application from StockX

Data analyst: salary of $65,000, according to two approved visa applications from StockX.

After a tough year-and-a-half for the cannabis industry, the sector has found new momentum through increased pandemic-related sales and a raft of cannabis reform legislation in the US in the past few months.

Cannabis is considered an illegal Schedule I drug by the US federal government. Still, five states voted to legalize cannabis in November, and the House passed the MORE Act, a bill to federally decriminalize cannabis, last month.

Cannabis will be legal for recreational use in 15 states once these laws go into effect, and medical marijuana will be legal in 36. The prospects for federal action on marijuana reform — likely a decriminalization bill like the MORE Act — got a lot stronger after Decision Desk HQ called the Georgia Senate runoffs for both Democratic candidates, giving the party control once Joe Biden takes office.

Cannabis investors told Business Insider that it's now easier to put together deals, since the field is less crowded and the companies left standing have management teams that successfully navigated the industry's downturn.

While capital is still constrained in the once red-hot cannabis sector — at least compared to the highs of 2018 and early 2019 — this was the year that the frontrunners in the industry cleaned up their balance sheets and weaker players fell to the wayside.

The biggest venture deals in cannabis in 2020 were driven by cannabis tech startups like Dutchie's $35 million Series B and LeafLink's $40 million Series C, as well as by private cannabis retailer Ascend Wellness Holding's $68 million raise. 

Read more: 6 top cannabis VCs lay out what it takes for a marijuana startup to grab their attention — and their cash

To get a handle on the industry's top dealmakers, we asked private market data provider Pitchbook for the top US-based investors in cannabis startups. We also reached out to the firms that appeared on our 2019 list. 

In total, we contacted 25 funds to ask how much they invested in cannabis startups in 2020. Based on their answers, we narrowed down our list to 17 top players.

We asked the investors to confirm how much they invested, how many deals they did, and what trends they're watching to place their next bets in 2021. The list is arranged by the amount of money each firm invested in cannabis startups.

Note: Many firms invest in both public and private companies. We asked each investment firm to estimate how much it invested in startups in 2020 only, rather than in public companies or as part of SPACs. We did our best to reflect these estimates and cross-referenced them with other sources. If you believe your firm should be included, please reach out to us at cannabis@businessinsider.com. 

We updated this article to add Measure 8 on December 16. A representative for the firm reached out and said the firm invested $97 million in the private market in 2020. Gron's investment figure has also been updated to reflect a correction to information the firm originally provided.

Measure 8 — $97 million

Founded: 2017 

Located: New York City

Deal count in 2020: 5

Predictions for 2021: "It's astonishing that there are vastly profitable cannabis operators in an industry burdened with an exorbitant amount of federal taxes (sometimes upwards of 70%), no access to the US capital markets and in which operators cannot even open a checking account at a federally-chartered bank," Measure 8 Chief Operating Officer Kevin Gahwyler said in an email.

"We think the banking/capital markets front will see some major legislative movement in 2021. Additionally, we believe the New Jersey adult-use win will ignite a domino effect, and NY, PA and, CT will closely follow resulting in over 80% of the US population having access to cannabis." 

Measure 8 contains two separate entities, a hedge fund that invests in public markets and a venture fund, Gahwyler said. The venture fund has deployed around $195 million so far. 

Measure 8's founder, Boris Jordan, is also the founder and executive chair of Curaleaf. 

Gotham Green Partners — $95 million

Founded: 2017 

Located: Los Angeles and New York City

Deal count in 2020: 12

Predictions for 2021: "We believe that the positive regulatory momentum will continue, with more states legalizing recreational and medical cannabis," said Jason Adler, managing member at Gotham Green Partners. "With increasing bipartisan support and a clear need for state and local tax revenues, it will be hard to ignore the pace of change and the progress of these programs."

The early success of newly recreational markets like Illinois and Michigan, as well as the introduction of legal cannabis in Arizona and New Jersey, should create momentum for other states to adopt recreational programs, according to Adler, particularly to generate tax revenue to shore up depleted budgets following the pandemic. 

"Ultimately, we think this will accelerate change at the federal level with additional pro-cannabis legislation like the MORE Act, the SAFE Banking Act, etc," Adler said in an email. 

Merida Capital Holdings — $50 million

Founded: 2016

Located: New York City

Deal count in 2020: 95, across 29 companies

Predictions for 2021: "We think that virtually every state will go at least medical, and 3-4 large states go rec, as momentum towards normalization of cannabis will continue to drive upward revisions of revenue projections, driven by an acceleration of the transition of consumers/patients from the illicit market into the legal market," said Mitch Baruchowitz, managing partner at Merida Capital.

Baruchowitz says that transition will be driven by more aggressive enforcement of state laws, the cost of legal cannabis being driven lower — when compared with illicit cannabis — as larger legal operators "achieve automation, scale and cost efficiencies. Baruchowitz also expects to see a "much more evolved medical vertical."

Overall, Merida has deployed $210 million across the fund, Baruchowitz said. 

Casa Verde Capital — $31 million

Founded: 2015

Located: Los Angeles, California 

Deal count in 2020: 6

Predictions for 2021: "In 2021, we expect to see continued consolidation across the industry,"Yoni Moshe Meyer, partner at Casa Verde, told Business Insider. "Moreover, we anticipate that there will be at least 2 new states legalizing adult-use cannabis."

Navy Capital — $25 million

Founded: 2014

Located: Westport, Connecticut 

Deal count in 2020: 3

Predictions for 2021:  "The set up for 2021 is very similar to 2020 where the big get bigger and continue to pull away," said Sean Stiefel, founder of Navy Capital.

"From my vantage point, the best companies are distancing themselves from the pack. Whether it's the large MSOs (Trulieve, GTI, Curaleaf, Cresco, Verano) or the leading Brands (Connected, Raw Garden, Cann). It's clear to us these businesses are getting more efficient and have enormous runway while smaller peers are still facing big headwinds and capital challenges. We think the field continues to narrow in 2021."

Stiefel says the $25 million figure is an estimate. He added that Navy Capital has invested $100 million into private companies since the fund was founded and that the fund rotates in and out of investments. 

Gron Ventures — $24.6 million

Founded: 2018

Located: Los Angeles & Orange County, California 

Deal count in 2020: 11

Predictions for 2021: "For years, investors have predicted that flower prices would commoditize overnight. After this point it's clear that the situation is more complex," said Wilder Ramsey, managing partner at Gron Ventures. "We see no indication that the shortage of compliant high-quality flower will dissipate — the black market is too strong, and in California, it probably absorbs a majority of the flower that is grown compliantly."

"As to consumer demand for combustible flower," Ramsey continued, "the category that has arguably attracted the least investor attention: we expect it to remain robust."

Note: This slide has been updated to reflect the correct number for Gron Ventures. The firm initially provided an incorrect figure.

Poseidon Asset Management — $21 million

Founded: 2013

Located: San Francisco, California 

Deal count in 2020: 6

Predictions for 2021: "We believe we will start to see banking reform and the introduction of institutional capital into the sector. This is good timing, as the industry has reached a new level of maturity, with strong operators leading the charge,"Morgan and Emily Paxhia, founders of Poseidon Asset Management, told Business Insider in an email.

"We think it could be possible to see US companies gaining access or preparing to access the Nasdaq or NYSE, and there will be some new entrants from the MSOs into the capital markets. We also think we will see the opening up of more international markets, to create interesting new dynamics in the global supply chain. Countries to watch in 2021 are Mexico and Colombia."

AFI Capital Partners — $18 million

Founded: 2018

Located: Seattle, Washington and Santa Monica, California 

Deal count in 2020: 7

Predictions for 2021: "I will leave the pontification on federal legalization to the talking heads, however, if the Republicans maintain control of the Senate, it appears unlikely that the MORE Act will make it onto the Senate floor for a vote,"Nico Richardson, managing director at AFI Capital Partners, told Business Insider.

Richardson says that within the industry, he expects to see continued growth from the MSO class of operators as limited license markets continue to scale. 

"I would also expect to see accelerated consolidation within the more mature and fragmented markets like Colorado, Washington and Oregon as smaller operators strain under the burden of 280E and lack of access to private capital," he added. 

TVC Capital — $16.5 million

Founded: 2006

Located: San Diego, California 

Deal count in 2020: 2

Predictions for 2021: "The cannabis industry will see further acceleration of M&A activity as players across the spectrum seek to add mass and scale,"Jeb Spencer, managing partner at TVC Capital, told Business Insider.

Spencer added that he expects increased professionalization in the industry and more participation of non-industry executives in leadership roles.

"We believe that there will be increased focus and investment in software and technology firms fueling growth, reducing costs and increasing efficiency in the industry," he added.

Note: We only reported figures for how much TVC Capital invested into cannabis startups specifically, rather than how much money the fund allocated across all sectors in 2020.

Rose Capital — $12 million

Founded: 2016

Located: Greenwich, Connecticut 

Deal count in 2020: 10

Predictions for 2021: 

"Following the collapse of the equity cannabis markets in late-2019, early-2020, alongside the introduction of COVID, the legal cannabis sector landscape is littered with sub-scale assets poised for consolidation,"Andrew Schweibold, cofounder and CEO of Rose Capital, told Business Insider. Schweibold added that he thinks strong business models and assets will continue to drive scale and market share gains through M&A.

"In particular I expect to see increased consolidation amongst brands. Multi-state operator brand houses sit uniquely positioned to address the growing US cannabis consumer base," he said. 

Rose Capital says it has invested $12 million into cannabis startups this year. The investment firm also backed BR Brands' acquisition of public company Dixie, by which BR Brands went public through a reverse takeover, trading under the name BellRock. Including this deal, Rose Capital has invested $55 million into the cannabis space in 2020. With the inclusion of debt instruments, the firm says its 2020 investments total approximately $75 million.

DCM Ventures — $10 million

Founded: 1996 

Located: Menlo Park, California 

Deal count in 2020: 1

Predictions for 2021: "Funding for startups will pick up materially in 2021 as more states launch recreational and medical cannabis from prior approvals," said Kyle Lui, partner at DCM Ventures. "Businesses will finally get the much needed legislative support around banking and financial services for the industry."

Note: We only reported figures for how much DCM Ventures invested into cannabis startups specifically, rather than how much money the fund allocated across all sectors in 2020.

Phyto Partners — $10 million

Founded: 2015 

Located: Boca Raton, Florida

Deal count in 2020: 11

Predictions for 2021: 2021 is going to be a great year for the cannabis industry, said Larry Schnurmacher, managing partner at Phyto Partners. 

"We expect positive momentum to continue including potential for federal legislation that will normalize banking for the industry," he said, adding that the addressable market for cannabis products will increase as more states institute commercial sales. 

He added that he believes capital will shift away from publicly-traded Canadian cannabis companies like Canopy Growth, and towards US multi-state operators or MSOs like Green Thumb Industries, as well as to cannabis tech, hydroponics, and other ancillary companies. 

Salveo Capital — $4.5 million

Founded: 2016

Located: Chicago

Deal count in 2020: 7

Predictions for 2021: The coming year is set up to be a very good year for cannabis, according to Michael C. Gruber, a managing partner at Salveo Capital.

"There will be further consolidation in the industry, and with the maturation of companies and reaching greater scale, well-run companies will continue to be able to raise capital on better terms than in the past," he said. 

Gruber added that although the passage of federal cannabis legislation remains unclear, "increasing public support for legalization, increasing de-stigmatization, and ongoing usage and demand for cannabis products for general well-being will provide strong tailwinds for the industry to register strong growth in the year."

HALLEY Venture Partners — more than $3 million

Founded: 2017

Located: San Francisco, California and Denver, Colorado

Deal count in 2020: 8

Predictions for 2021: "With renewed interest from capital markets, we expect investments from new players that haven't been involved in the space yet," said Steve Schuman, managing director of HALLEY Venture Partners, adding that some of these players could be traditional venture capital funds who dip their toes into the sector for the first time. 

Schuman says he also predicts there will be further M&A and consolidation from cannabis multi-state operators (MSOs) who will expand geographically and combine with smaller players to gain scale to compete with the largest national players.

"We also anticipate further state-level legislative action to advance legalization as states look to cannabis tax revenues to bolster pandemic-depleted tax coffers," he said. "Sadly the incoming administration has given the industry no concrete signs that it will champion removing federal prohibition on its own, though we believe it will help the process if enough states and the grassroots efforts continue to push."

Panther Opportunity Fund — $3 million

Founded: 2016

Located: Atlanta, Georgia 

Deal count in 2020: 10

Predictions for 2021: Panther Opportunity Fund's principal Jordan Tritt says he expects valuations of well-performing companies to increase as management teams focus intently on bottom-line results, resulting in profitable, growing businesses.

"Macro trends are favorable for the industry with record legal sales and more states coming online," Tritt said, adding that he expects lots of growth capital to come into cannabis next year as investors recognize the "all time high" of individual support for cannabis legalization and the need for states to offset budget deficits related to the pandemic.

Silverleaf Venture Partners — $2.6 million

Founded: 2018

Located: Denver, Colorado

Deal count in 2020: 8

Predictions for 2021: "On the public equity side we predict the majority of Cannabis SPACs will fold due to a lack of qualifying transactions," Silverleaf Venture Partners managing director Andre M. Haroche told Business Insider. "For private equity, we predict 2021 will usher in many more roll-ups and distressed acquisitions, where the best operators will acquire businesses who are poorly run or financially challenged."

Arcadian Capital — $2.4 million

Founded: 2017

Located: Los Angeles, California 

Deal count in 2020: 12

Predictions for 2021: "The easing of regulations in a number of states and internationally has fueled growing excitement for business opportunities across cannabis markets," Arcadian Capital's managing partners, Matthew Nordgren and KrishnanVarier, said in an email to Business Insider.

Nordgren and Varier say that in 2021, they expect to see an increase in investor appetite that will help to bolster top-performing operators. 

"We anticipate legislation at the federal level which should carry that momentum into the latter half of the year," they added. 

Thousands of supporters of President Donald Trump took to the streets of the nation's capital Wednesday as part of the latest effort in support of "Stop the Steal," the name given to the movement that denies President-elect Joe Biden's winning of the 2020 presidential election.  

For the past two months, Trump has refused to accept election defeat and has bemoaned a ploy by Democrats to rig it, despite him and his allies providing no substantial evidence of that or of widespread voter fraud. Dozens of lawsuits filed by Trump and his legal team have been fruitless in their attempts to subvert the results.

The "Stop the Steal" movement was birthed on Election Day when supporters of the president protested for state election officials to stop counting ballots to maintain Trump's early-in-the-race lead. Trump's lead waned and eventually disappeared in the hours and days following the election when mail-in ballots were counted. The president had discouraged his followers from casting ballots by mail, while Democrats encouraged them because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

About a dozen GOP senators have said they plan to object to the certification of the Electoral College vote, which in December reaffirmed Biden's win over Trump. Biden secured  306 votes to Trump's 232. Some Republicans in the House are also expected to object Wednesday, but none of the objections are expected to impact Biden's certification. 

Trump, meanwhile, has implied that Vice President Mike Pence would himself refuse to certify the results of the Electoral College vote when he presides over the Senate on Wednesday, though Pence does not have the power for such a move.

As Congress prepared to meet to certify the results, supporters of the outgoing president from across the US showed up to Washington to once more reject the results of the election. Trump had encouraged them to descend on the city.

READ MORE: What to expect when GOP members of Congress object to the counting of Electoral College votes on January 6

Thousands of supporters of Trump descended on Washington after Trump in tweets had encouraged them to come.

Source: President Donald Trump, Twitter

Despite claims from President Trump and his GOP allies, there is no evidence of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election.

Source: Business Insider

While standing behind a wall of glass, Trump spoke to his supporters outside the White House, repeating his baseless claims about the election.

Source: CNN reporter Daniel Dale

Trump and his legal team have won zero of at least 42 lawsuits filed to overturn election results since November.

Source: Business Insider

A woman pushing a suitcase and speaker wears a white skirt with sheets of paper reading 'STOLEN' attached to it.

The rally took place as the coronavirus pandemic rages through the US. More than 358,000 people in the nation have died from COVID-19.

Source: Johns Hopkins University

The president's second-born son, Eric, and his wife, Lara, spoke to demonstrators outside the White House on Wednesday.

Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., also spoke at the 'Stop the Steal' demonstration.

DC vendors sold Trump swag at the January 6 demonstration.

Merchandise for sale at the rally included flags, t-shirts, and of course, hats.

A man wears a vest that references the baseless Q Anon conspiracy, which has been embraced by some Republicans.

Source: Business Insider

Thousands of supporters of the president took to the National Mall and surrounded the Washington Monument.

A man dressed as DC Comics superhero Superman walks in a crowd of Trump supporters holding US and Trump flags.

A demonstrator holds a sign with a pro-police message. Many Democratic leaders called for police reform in 2020 after instances of violence by police.

Source: Business Insider

DC police limited access to Black Lives Matter Plaza, a location in front of the White House that was renamed by DC Mayor Muriel Bowser this summer.

Source: Business Insider

A woman carries a sign claiming "Trump Won Big" despite President-elect Joe Biden winning more than 7 million more votes than Trump.

Source: Business Insider

The colors of the US flag, red, white, and blue, could be seen throughout the nation's capitol on Wednesday.

Trump and his supporters on Election Day demanded states where Trump appeared in the lead to stop counting ballots, which served as the origin of the 'Stop the Steal' movement.

Source: Business Insider

A woman carries a sign that says 'We are Trump's adorable deplorables." Trump supporters have embraced the term after it was first used as a jab against 2016 by Hillary Clinton.

Source: Business Insider

The rally came one day after the special election in Georgia which gave Democrats control in the US Senate.

Source: Business Insider

Some 117 years into its storied life, the Ford Motor Company is facing perhaps the toughest challenge in its history — and its newly installed chief executive, Jim Farley, has assembled what he hopes is an all-star team capable of meeting it head on. 

The global auto industry is on the verge of a massive shift away from the defining technology of the 20th century — the fossil fuel-powered internal-combustion engine — and toward the potentially defining technology of the 21st, the electric drivetrain. The race is on to develop fully driverless vehicles, with multi-trillion-dollar opportunities popping up for ride-hailing, trucking, and delivery. 

Ford and other legacy automakers are masters at designing, engineering, mass-producing, and selling millions of cars and trucks every year. But they face challenges from nimble startups and risk-craving new players. Elon Musk's Tesla, for example, has surged to a $500 billion market valuation, even though it will probably sell just 500,000 vehicles this year. Ford could sell five million, but its market cap now sits at just over $36 billion, while its stock price has languished for years.  

The coronavirus pandemic revealed another vulnerability: For over a month in early 2020, Ford had to shut down production at all of its US and European factories, costing it billions. The company leaned on its borrowing capacity to muddle through, but its credit rating was cut below investment grade. To preserve cash, Ford had to suspend its generous divided.

Tough times call for tough leaders, and Farley — Ford's third CEO since 2014 — has a deeply experienced team running the show. 

These are the 15 power players leading the iconic automaker into an uncertain future.

FOLLOW US: On Facebook for more car and transportation content!

Moray Callum, vice president, Design

Callum has been at Ford since 1995, and has been the head of design since 2014. He's responsible for overseeing the form and function of literally every vehicle the company makes or wants to make, from SUVs to sports cars to exotic concepts.

He's also the brother of Ian Callum, who recently retired as design chief at Jaguar. So he hails from a family that has beautiful cars in its blood.

But he doesn't exactly look, or act, the part of a car designer. Callum's nature is cheerful, not intense or austere. He dresses unpretentiously, forgoing the sleek black suits, gigantic costly wristwatches, and severe eyeglasses that most auto-industry observers associate with the more artsy denizens of the business.

Callum now manages Ford's commitment to the design values embodied by its traditional cars and trucks, while embracing the new aesthetics that autonomous and electric vehicles embody.

Suzy Deering, global chief marketing officer

Ford named Deering, a veteran of eBay and Verizon, as its new top marketer in November 2020. She will be on the job in January of next year.

Automakers spend billions on marketing their vehicles and services, so Deering's role is critical. But Ford is also rebranding itself as a technology and mobility provider, and the 117-year-old company looked to the new economy when it chose Deering as CMO.

"Technology will be a powerful part of Ford's transformation and how we enhance and release the huge value of our iconic brands," she said in a statement when her hire was announced.

"My team will be involved from end-to-end on behalf of customers — better connecting with them, using data to foresee and deliver what they need, and earning and keeping their trust."

Jim Farley, CEO

Farley took over as CEO in October 2020— making him the automaker's third chief executive since Alan Mulally retired in 2014. Mulally got Ford through the financial crisis without suffering the bailout-and-bankruptcy fates of both General Motors and Chrysler.

But the Blue Oval has consistently struggled to post a 10% annual profit margin, and the carmaker's stock has underperformed the broader markets at a time when new-vehicle sales have been on a record tear and Tesla has become one of the world's most valuable companies. 

Farley takes over at a time when Ford has important new vehicles hitting the market. The carmaker rolled out a redesigned F-150 pickup right after the COVID-19 pandemic forced it to idle all its US and European production for more than a month.

A rebooted Bronco SUV has raked in close to 200,000 reservations, and the Mustang Mach-E, Ford's play at taking on Tesla head-to-head, goes on sale this fall. A new E-Transit all-electric commercial van is also on the way, and the platform is the basis for Farley's ambitious strategy to go after the big money in big data.

Known as a hard-charging leader, Farley made his bones at Toyota, at one point running the Lexus luxury brand. He came to Ford in 2007 and rose to become its chief operating officer, functioning as a sort of shadow CEO for Hackett.

Farley has ascended to the top job in Dearborn at a moment when Ford is facing unprecedented challenges from upstarts such as Tesla on the electrification front, but also as the company works to validate its partnership with autonomous-mobility startup Argo AI and keep it competitive with GM-affiliated Cruise and Waymo, Alphabet's self-driving company.

Joy Falotico, president, Lincoln

Until November 2020, Falotico was heading up Lincoln and serving as Ford's Chief Marketing Officer — following in the footsteps of Kumar Galhotra, who had also run the luxury brand while filling the CMO's role.

Falotico worked at Ford's credit arm from 1989 until she became a group vice-president in 2016 and took over Lincoln while the brand was in the process of a reinvention. 

With Ford hiring Suzy Deering as its new CMO, Falotico is free to take Lincoln to the next level, expanding its manufacturing and sales operations in China while launching new SUVs in the US. She has to take on crosstown rival Cadillac, as well as worry about Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Lexus, Acura, Infiniti, and Jaguar Land Rover.

China, in particular, has been on her mind for a while. "China is going to be the largest market, for certain," she told Insider in 2018.

William Clay Ford, chairman of the board of directors

Bill Ford, great-grandson of founder Henry Ford, was once CEO of his family's company. And although he stepped aside — wisely, as it turned out — to bring former Boeing executive Alan Mulally onboard before the financial crisis, he's always stayed in the picture.

As chairman, he's been steering Ford toward something of a post-car future for over a decade, stressing sustainability, innovation, and advanced mobility but not sacrificing the carmaker's big earners, such as the F-Series pickup-truck franchise — American's bestselling vehicles every year since 1982 — and large, highly profitable SUVs, like the Explorer.

In 2018, he told Insider, on the occasion of reviving a neglected train station in downtown Detroit, that Ford isn't "just making a bet on Detroit" but "making a big bet on the future for Ford and the future of transportation."

Kumar Galhotra, president, Americas & International Markets Group

Galhotra has been a rising star at Ford since he took over Lincoln after the financial crisis and put it on the road to reinvention.

At one time a low-key engineer, Galhotra is now known for his elegantly tailored suits and his calm manner, combined with a relentless focus on improving Ford and making sure the company remains competitive.

Galhotra has moved from major role to major role at Ford. In his current job, he oversees the ups and downs of everything Ford does, from passenger cars and trucks to commercial vehicles. He's on the front lines of where Ford is making and losing money.

He's also considered a future CEO candidate and, for the past 10 years, has been an executive to keep a close eye on.

"Kumar is an incredibly talented executive with a special feel for product and brand," Farley — then executive vice president and president of global markets — said when Galhotra was put in charge of Ford's all-important North American business in 2018. "He is a seasoned leader who knows how to drive a business transformation."

Jim Hackett, special advisor

Hackett was Ford's CEO from 2017 until 2020, and his tenure was rocky. Unlike the tough-minded car execs who have defined the business for decades, Hackett was a thoughtful leader who, in a previous career, made furniture maker Steelcase into a company that redefined workplaces.

Hackett's focus on what he called "design thinking" was appreciated by Silicon Valley, but it took awhile for it to catch on in the car business.

Bill Ford always got it and felt strongly that Hackett had put the company on the right track. Wall Street was less patient, but Farley developed a great respect for Hackett's approach.

"After being in the industry for decades as a product planner, I thought I knew a thing or two," Farley told Insider.

But Hackett's guidance "forever changed us as leaders at the company," he added. "We're all in. In what you'll see in the next generation of vehicles. That was all informed by what Jim gifted us with. I can't imagine Ford without it."

As a Special Advisor, Hackett will continue to offer insight to both Farley and Bill Ford.

Marion Harris, CEO, Ford Motor Credit Company

Harris has been at Ford since 1999, and he became CEO of Ford Motor Credit in 2019.

FMC has been a quietly powerful force in helping Ford to maintain a solid level of financial execution since the Great Recession. As the automaker's captive lender, it provides the credit that customers and dealers need to buy and lease Ford vehicles.

Harris hasn't always been Ford's in-house banker. He also served as vice president of the company's Mobility Business Group. There, he "was responsible for the connected services businesses of Ford Commercial Solutions," among other responsibilities.

That experience is liable to make him a key player for Farley, who has made Ford Commercial Solution an integral part of his plan to turn Ford's data-gathering into a profit driver.

"Commercial is what Ford does naturally," Farley recently told Insider. "We've very good at it. The new frontier for us is to go digital and electric with services."

Mark LeNeve, vice president, US Marketing and Sales

Compared to others on this list, LaNeve is a newcomer to Ford, having joined the Blue Oval only in 2015. (He did get a bit of a preview, starting in 2012, when he was COO of Global Team Blue, the carmaker's advertising arm.)

Prior to that, he'd been at Allstate. But he learned his trade during lengthy stints at General Motors, where he ran both the Cadillac and Pontiac divisions, and then at Volvo North America as CEO, at a time when the company was being acquired by Ford (the company later sold Volvo to China's Geely).

At Ford, LaNeve has often been in the trenches with the carmaker's dealer network. He provided Insider with some key insights regarding the company's decision several years ago to abandon low-profit sedans in the US market.

In an interview with Insider in 2018, LaNeve said, "We've been seeing the trends coming on for a while, but it's been accelerating."

That move has now paid off handsomely, as Ford has been able to zero in on highly profitable pickups and SUVs, funding its transformation. And LaNeve can take credit for that success.

John Lawler, CFO

Lawler is a Ford lifer who knows the company inside and out. He joined in 1990 and has served in a wide range of roles around the globe, culminating as CEO of Ford Autonomous Vehicles LLC, the carmaker's self-driving arm, and vice president of its Mobility Partnerships group.

He took over as CFO in 2020 when Tim Stone left to run a Montana based artificial-intelligence startup. 

Ford's CFO's tend to know the business as well (or better) than the CEOs they serve, and Lawler is no exception, having worked at Ford for 17 years longer than Farley.

From 2012 to 2016, he ran Ford's China operations, as the automaker tried to catch up with more established players in the region — GM and the VW Group, mainly — and set itself up to capture its share of growth in what experts think could be the largest auto market on the planet, more than double the size of the US.

Now he has to guide Ford through some financially treacherous waters. Although the company has plenty of cash on its balance sheet (the result of a sales boom in the US that's favored big-ticket pickups and SUVs), a weak stock price, more debt than some of its peers, and a higher cost of borrowing could cause the company some pain when the next downturn in the industry arrives.

Jeff Lemmer, chief information officer

This 33-year Ford veteran is the IT guy to end all IT guys.

Not only does Lemmer manage the information-technology needs of Ford's nearly 200,000 worldwide employees, but he also leads Ford's efforts to ensure that its workforce and customers have state-of-the-art privacy and technological security.

Lemmer has paved the way for his successor, who should be announced before the end of 2020, as Lemmer intends to step down in January. Ford's next CIO should end up working closely with Jim Farley to execute on the CEO's ambitious strategy to turn Ford's data business into a profit-driver.

Stuart Rowley, president, Ford of Europe

Rowley, born and educated in the UK, has been with Ford since 1990, including a few years at Volvo when the Swedish carmaker was under the Ford corporate umbrella.

As the carmaker's European chief, he has one of the hardest jobs in the business. Ford has been in Europe for decades, but the market there has long been flat, with most of Ford's profits coming from the US and lucrative pickup and SUV sales. 

Unlike rival GM, however, Ford has decided to stay the course in Europe (GM pulled out several years ago when it sold its Opel division to Peugeot). Rowley took charge in 2019 and needs to show results in a hurry, to ease pressure on Farley and lessen Ford's reliance on North America.

Hau Thai-Tang, chief product platform and operations officer

Hau Thai-Tang, like several members of top-ranking Ford leadership, has spent his entire career with the company. He joined in 1988, fresh out of Carnegie Mellon's mechanical-engineering program.

One of his biggest achievements at Ford was creating a new Mustang. He took charge of the 2005 iteration of the iconic "pony car" and later appeared in the 2015 documentary "A Faster Horse" to discuss the undertaking.

He hasn't allowed his decades at Ford to lock him into a cloistered view of the company. "For the past century, the ability to master the internal-combustion engine has been a huge barrier to entry for the automotive business," he told McKinsey Quarterly in 2019.

"Now, anybody can buy a motor, match it with a battery, and become an automotive manufacturer."

When Farley officially became CEO in October, he elevated Thai-Tang to a new level of responsibility. The engineer became chief product platform and operations officer, and has served as chief product development and purchasing officer.

Lynn Antipas Tyson, executive director, investor relations

Tyson's 25-year career has showcased her ability to represent large companies to the investment community and other critical constituencies. Before Ford, she worked for Dell and PepsiCo.

The City College of New York grad also holds an MBA from New York University's Stern School of Business.

Her challenge at Ford is significant, as the carmaker's stock has failed to impress Wall Street, lagging the broader markets since the financial crisis and underperforming its peers in the auto industry. Ford has also seen its investment-grade credit rating cut, raising its borrowing costs.

"Lynn brings a wealth of investor relations and communications experience at companies that were facing profound change," Bob Shanks, then Ford's CFO, said in 2017 when Tyson joined Ford.

Ken Washington, chief technology officer

If you're looking for the leading edge at Ford, Ken Washington is probably leaning off of it. With a doctorate in nuclear engineering, he's is the scientist on Ford's leadership term, responsible for the company's far-flung research efforts.

He came to the Blue Oval from the Advanced Technology Center at Lockheed Martin Space Systems.

Now, he supervises the development of Ford's "next-generation vehicle electrical architectures; sensing and computing stacks; energy, propulsion, and sustainability; advanced materials and manufacturing; and controls and automated systems," according to the automaker.

• Flagship TV models can be expensive, but there are many affordable TV options out there with solid picture quality and great smart features for budget-friendly prices. 
• With a fantastic balance between price, performance, and size, the TCL 55-inch 5 Series 4K Roku TV is our top pick for the best cheap TV you can buy.
• Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals.

TV pricing has come down a lot over the last few years. Gone are the days when buying a 4K TV meant having to spend thousands of dollars.

These days, you can get a nice 4K TV with basic HDR support for only a few hundred bucks. You can even find big-screen options in sizes as large as 65 inches without totally breaking the bank.

Of course, there are always some performance trade-offs to keep in mind when buying a TV on a budget. A true home theater movie-watching experience still comes at a premium, but choosing an entry-level TV doesn't mean you have to settle for poor picture quality, a small screen, or a dumb display without the latest streaming apps.

I've been covering the consumer electronics industry for eight years, and during that time I've demoed and reviewed numerous TV models at various price points. After testing and researching all the latest TVs on the market, we've selected the best display models you can buy on a budget.     

Here are the best cheap TVs you can buy:

• Best cheap 4K TV overall: TCL 55-inch 5 Series 4K Roku TV
• Best cheap 4K TV for HDR: Hisense H8G Android TV
• Best cheap 4K TV for wide viewing angles: LG 55-inch 4K UN7000 TV
• Best cheap 4K TV with a big screen: Vizio 65-inch V-Series TV
• Best cheap 1080p TV: TCL 40-inch 3 Series HDTV

Prices and links are current as of 1/6/2021. This article has been revised to note that Roku TVs now include HBO Max. New TV models will be announced the week of January 11 during CES 2021, so we're keeping an eye on upcoming models to test for consideration on this guide. 

SEE ALSO: The best HDMI cables you can buy

The best cheap 4K TV overall

TCL's 55-inch 5 Series 4K Roku TV balances image performance, smart connectivity, screen size, and cost better than any other display in this price range.

Pros: 4K HDR10 and Dolby Vision support, quantum dots, full-array local dimming, Roku smart TV system, great price

Cons: Doesn't include a voice remote, doesn't have HDMI 2.1 ports, HDR brightness is limited

If you're looking for a 55-inch 4K TV at an affordable price, then the TCL 5 Series is your best option overall. With solid picture quality, a screen size suitable for most rooms, and integrated support for Roku's simple and convenient smart TV system, this display hits the right sweet spot between features and cost.  

The 5 Series uses a 4K resolution panel with HDR10 and Dolby Vision support. That latter feature is missing from some other TVs in this class, and it can provide better contrast when watching Dolby Vision titles on 4K Blu-ray discs and streaming services like Disney Plus.

Another premium picture quality feature that the 5 Series offers but several other budget TVs lack, is expanded color support. This enables the display to produce more realistic colors when watching HDR videos. Unlike the 2019 5 Series, this newer model even uses quantum dots, which enable improved colors that are more in line with much more expensive TVs from brands like Samsung. 

Also new is the addition of full-array local dimming. This feature allows the TV to brighten and darken in specific spots across the screen, resulting in better black levels and more precise HDR highlights. There are 48 zones on the 55-inch model, which is a good amount for a TV in this price range. With that said, brightness capabilities are a bit limited compared to more expensive sets, which lessens the impact of HDR.  

Powered by Roku's easy-to-use interface, the 5 Series offers access to a fantastic assortment of streaming apps, including Netflix, Disney Plus, Apple TV Plus, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock, and HBO Max. The Roku platform is fairly snappy and responsive, so you shouldn't run into any annoying lag when navigating menus. The 5 Series doesn't include a voice remote like some more expensive TVs, but the standard Roku remote gets the job done for basic controls.

Finally, when it comes to connectivity, you'll get four HDMI 2.0 inputs, along with a USB port, optical audio out, analog audio out, composite in, an Ethernet port, and Wi-Fi support — making it easy to connect media players, soundbars, and other devices.

Simply put, the 5 Series has virtually everything that a modern 55-inch 4K TV in this price range should have — and then some.

The best cheap 4K TV for HDR

The Hisense H8G Android TV uses local dimming and quantum dots to provide some of the best HDR performance you can get on a budget 50-inch TV.

Pros: 4K with HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision, local dimming for superior contrast, quantum dots, Google Assistant voice remote, solid brightness capabilities for the price

Cons: No HDMI 2.1 ports, 50-inch model has less dimming zones than larger versions

Buying a smaller TV on a budget typically means you have to miss out on some advanced picture quality features found on larger, more expensive sets. The Hisense H8G, however, totally dispels that notion. The impressive midrange display packs local dimming and quantum dots into a 50-inch panel with Google Assistant — all while maintaining a very affordable price.

One of the most important image features you can look for in a new 4K TV is high dynamic range (HDR) support. HDR enables enhanced contrast and wider colors for a more realistic picture. The Hisense H8G offers some of the most impressive and comprehensive HDR capabilities in this price range. 

Like the TCL 5 Series, the H8G features quantum dots and support for HDR10 and Dolby Vision. On top of that, the Hisense provides a brighter image for more intense highlights, along with support for HDR10+, which is an advanced format used by Amazon Prime Video and select 4K Blu-rays. 

Google's Android TV system is integrated for extensive app support and smart capabilities, including access to popular services like Netflix, Disney Plus, Peacock, and even HBO Max. Google Assistant is also supported via the included remote for reliable voice control.

The 50-inch H8G includes 32 zones of local dimming. This is solid for such a small size, though the 55-inch model steps things up to 72 zones, and the 65-inch offers 90 zones. I reviewed the 65-inch model and came away very impressed by its overall performance and value. That size is more expensive, but the cheaper 50-inch model remains a fantastic budget option for shoppers who prioritize HDR performance. 

Read our Hisense H8G 4K TV (65-inch model) review here

The best cheap 4K TV for wide viewing angles

The LG 55-inch 4K UN7000 TV boasts a 4K resolution IPS screen for wide viewing angles — plus, it has LG's webOS smart TV platform and AirPlay 2 support.

Pros: IPS panel for wide viewing angles, 4K resolution with HDR10, AirPlay 2 support, works with separate Alexa and Google Assistant devices

Cons: Black levels and contrast aren't great, doesn't include a voice remote

Though many of the 4K TVs recommended on this guide offer impressive picture performance, they all suffer from one pesky drawback: lackluster viewing angles. 

This means that colors and contrast tend to distort and wash out when you sit off to the side of the display. Though that's not a problem for people who can plop down on a couch right in front of their TV, it can be an issue for buyers who have to position their seats in other parts of their room.

If viewing angles are one of your main priorities in a budget 4K TV, then the 55-inch UN7000 from LG is one of your best options. Unlike many TVs from other manufacturers, this LG model uses an IPS LCD panel rather than a VA LCD panel. IPS panels offer improved off-axis picture. In other words, you can sit off to the side of the display without the TV's colors and contrast dramatically degrading. This makes the UN7000 an ideal fit for people with off-center TV placement, or buyers who plan to have a lot of viewing parties with seats all around the room.   

On the downside, TVs with IPS panels like this one have worse black levels and contrast than other displays. This particular model also lacks local dimming or wide color support, and it only offers basic HDR10 capabilities. So, while great for wide viewing angles, this TV doesn't have very good home theater performance in a dark room.

Like most LG TVs, this one supports apps like Netflix, Hulu, and many other streaming services via the webOS platform. HBO Max, however, is missing from LG TVs. Unfortunately, the UN7000 also lacks a voice remote, but you can use the TV with a separate Alexa or Google Assistant device. AirPlay 2 and HomeKit are also supported for easy pairing with Apple products.

The UN7000 is also available in a few larger and smaller screen sizes, but we think this 55-inch model offers the best value. Also, keep in mind that only the 65-, 55-, 49-, and 43-inch models use IPS screens. 

The best cheap 4K TV with a big screen

The Vizio 65-inch V-Series TV is an affordable big-screen display with 4K resolution, Dolby Vision support, and HDMI 2.1 ports. 

Pros: Big display for an affordable price, 4K resolution, HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support, HDMI 2.1 ports

Cons: Image quality is only average, lacks local dimming or quantum dots, no voice remote

Flagship 65-inch 4K TVs can cost a couple thousand dollars, but that doesn't mean that budget buyers always have to settle for smaller screen sizes. In fact, there are several worthwhile big-screen models out there that don't cost an arm and a leg. 

Vizio's new V-Series 65-inch TV is easily one of the best. It's big, it's 4K, it supports HDR, and it even includes HDMI 2.1 ports. That latter feature is especially noteworthy since it's missing from every other display on this guide. 

With that said, even though it includes HDMI 2.1, the V-Series doesn't support next-gen gaming features like variable refresh rate (VRR) or 120fps gaming. Of course, those features really shouldn't be expected at such a low price point.

When it comes to image quality, the V-Series has solid specifications, but there are some understandable limitations given the TV's budget-friendly cost. You get a 4K resolution LCD panel with HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision support. While that sounds great on paper, the display doesn't feature quantum dots or local dimming, so overall contrast, brightness, and color simply aren't on par with more expensive models. 

Vizio's SmartCast platform has seen some improvements recently but, while decent, it's not quite as reliable or comprehensive as the Roku, Android TV, or webOS systems. Still, buyers can access a select assortment of popular apps from the TV's on-screen menu, along with support for casting even more from a mobile device via Chromecast or AirPlay. The TV is compatible with separate Alexa and Google Assistant devices, but the display doesn't include a voice remote. 

Budget buyers who favor home theater performance over size will be better off going with the smaller Hisense 50-inch H8G or the TCL 55-inch 5 Series, but if you want a large 65-inch 4K TV in this price range, the V-Series offers a lot of value for the money. 

The best cheap 1080p TV

It doesn't have 4K resolution or other advanced features, but the TCL 40-inch 3 Series HDTV is one of the most affordable 40-inch Roku TVs you can buy.

Pros: Very affordable, Roku TV platform with easy access to streaming apps

Cons: Not 4K, no HDR or wide color support, no voice remote, smaller screen size

The TCL 3-Series is about as basic as a smart TV can get. It's the smallest display on this list, it features a 1080p resolution screen instead of 4K, and it lacks HDR support — but when it comes to overall value for the money, the TV is still a worthy option for budget buyers. 

This 40-inch smart TV uses a modest Full HD panel. While you won't be able to watch 4K HDR Blu-rays or 4K streams from Netflix, the reality is, most cable/satellite/live TV streaming content is still presented in SDR high definition. With that in mind, this 1080p screen is fine for casual viewing needs. 

Overall image performance isn't as good as the more expensive TVs on this list, but at a screen size of 40 inches, it would actually be hard to see any benefits from an upgrade to 4K. The lack of local dimming is a bit more of an issue, but contrast and black levels are decent considering the low price.

Three HDMI inputs are included, along with a USB port, optical audio out, composite video, and Wi-Fi connectivity. While the included remote doesn't feature voice control, you can pair the TV with a separate Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant device.

This definitely isn't a TV geared toward buyers looking for advanced picture quality. Instead, the TCL 3 Series is meant to appeal to people who just want a reliable 40-inch smart TV with easy access to their favorite apps. Thanks to the simple yet effective Roku platform, the 3-Series does just that.

Check out our other TV buying guides

The best 4K TVs

The best OLED TVs

The best Apple HomeKit-enabled TVs

• Samsung pulled back the curtain on its 2021 lineup of TVs during its CES 2021 First Look event on January 6.
• The promising new collection of high-end displays includes the company's first Neo QLED TVs with "Mini LED" technology.
• Samsung also announced new Micro LED TVs which are designed to compete with OLED displays.  
• Pricing hasn't been announced yet, but we'll update this article with purchase details once they're revealed. 
• See also: The best OLED 4K TVs

CES 2021 doesn't officially kick off until January 11, but Samsung has already announced details on its upcoming lineup of flagship TVs. The company's high-end display collection will feature 4K and 8K Neo QLED models, as well as a massive 110-inch Micro LED TV.

The term "LED" (light emitting diode) gets thrown around a lot when detailing new TVs so it can be a bit confusing to figure out exactly what each new variation means. When it comes to Samsung's new displays, the key differentiator this year is the actual size of the LEDs. Basically, smaller LEDs can equate to better picture with improved contrast, brightness, and color. 

Below, we've broken down what makes Samsung's Neo QLED and Micro LED TVs unique in greater detail. Though the company hasn't announced pricing, preorder details, or exact release dates yet, we'll update this post with that information as soon as it becomes available.  

Samsung Neo QLED TVs

Samsung's Neo QLED TVs promise improved contrast and brightness over regular QLED displays.

For 2021, Samsung is taking its QLED lineup to the next level with a new collection of Neo QLED TVs, including the QN900A 8K TV and the QN90A 4K TV. The "Neo" branding is being used to highlight new panel technology that the company is using to improve picture quality over last year's already impressive QLED models.

Unlike regular LED or QLED TVs, Neo QLED TVs use a "Quantum Mini LED" backlight to illuminate the screen. According to Samsung, each Mini LED is about 1/40 the height of a standard LED that you'd find in a typical TV. Smaller LEDs enable more precise control of local dimming with more zones.

At the end of the day, this should result in better contrast with deeper black levels and brighter highlights. Until now, TCL has been the only company using Mini LEDs in its TVs. The TCL 8-Series and 6-Series both employ the tech, and those models do showcase some benefits over the competition.

That said, blooming has been an issue with TCL's models. Blooming results in a halo effect around bright objects on dark backgrounds. To combat this potential problem, Samsung is touting new "Quantum Matrix Technology" for its Neo QLEDs, which it says will help reduce blooming.

In addition to picture quality improvements, the 8K Neo QLED TV features a nearly bezel-free "Infinity One Design." It also uses an attachable Slim One Connect box to house the TV's ports, enabling a slimmer panel and easier cable management.

Pricing for the Samsung QN900A 8K Neo QLED TV and the QN90A 4K Neo QLED TV have not been announced yet. New TVs typically launch in the spring or summer, so we expect more details over the coming months. We'll update this section with screen size options and retailer listings as soon as they're available.

Samsung Micro LED TVs

Samsung's Micro LED TVs could best OLED TVs when it comes to overall picture quality, but they're likely to be very expensive. 

Samsung has been showing off Micro LED TV technology at CES for the last few years. The company even released a massive Micro LED display, called "The Wall," in sizes as big as 292 inches for business and luxury customers. But, the technology has been difficult to scale down to a more manageable size and cost. This year, however, Samsung aims to change that.

For the first time, the company will release consumer-ready Micro LED TVs in 110- and 99-inch screen sizes. Though these displays are still expected to cost a pretty penny, unlike The Wall, you may actually be able to order them from a store.

Micro LED TVs offer lots of benefits over other display technologies, like LED, QLED, and even OLED. Like OLED TVs, Micro LED TVs are self-illuminating, which means that each of the TV's 24 million LEDs can dim, brighten, or turn off individually without the need for a backlight. This results in an infinite contrast ratio with true black levels.

Unlike OLED TVs, however, Micro LED tech promises higher brightness levels. Samsung also says that Micro LEDs provide a longer lifespan over OLED, with no risk of burn-in across 100,000 hours of use.

Samsung's 110- and 99-inch Micro LED TVs are expected to launch before the end of 2021. We'll update this article with pricing and purchase details once they're available.

• Portlanders' homes are often well-decorated, thoroughly-gardened, and an outward display of the city's unique personality.
• We rounded up affordable Airbnbs in hip neighborhoods across the city, ranging from $70 to $175 per night.
• Read more: Are Airbnbs safe? We spoke to experts, a company representative, and an Airbnb host on everything you should know before booking someone's home.

In Portland, Oregon, it's nearly impossible to drive through a neighborhood without spotting a front-yard vegetable garden, wind chimes, Tibetan prayer flags, or some other quintessential city quirk. To see the best of Portland, consider branching out from downtown to some of the city's coolest neighborhoods like Alberta, Hawthorne, or Mississippi, where you'll typically find the best restaurants, food trucks, doughnuts, and locally-roasted coffee the city has to offer.

Because much of Portland's food and shopping centers are so decentralized, it's often better to book an Airbnb in a hip neighborhood than a hotel in a tourist hotspot to experience a more fulfilling taste of the local life. Additionally, Airbnbs are an especially appealing option right now since experts and the CDC have noted that private vacation rentals are a safer option during COVID than hotels.

However, it's vital to keep in mind that there is still no guarantee of safety when it comes to travel right now. Many states are currently experiencing surges in COVID-19 cases. We always recommend following guidelines from the CDC, checking local and state guidelines, practicing social distancing, washing hands frequently, and wearing a mask in public areas. Additionally, you should exercise additional caution depending on your personal risk factors and whether you're traveling to or from a current hot spot.

With all that said, there are numerous affordable Airbnb options for those who do plan to visit Portland. We combed Airbnb for the highest-rated listings and narrowed it down to appealing options from renovated school buses to luxury condos. 

We chose Portland Airbnbs based on the following criteria:

1. 1. Airbnb listings are for the entire home, so you don't have to worry about sharing a bathroom or keeping your distance from others.
   2. Each Airbnb is affordable, ranging in price from $55 to $175, with availability to book at publishing time.
   3. All are highly-rated Airbnb listings with a review score of 4.9 or higher.
   4. Each listing has committed to Airbnb's Enhanced Cleaning Protocol, which sets a high standard for cleanliness between guest visits.
   5. Properties are unique and modern near a popular neighborhood.

These are the best Airbnbs in Portland, Oregon, sorted by price from low to high.

Converted school bus in Mississippi, $55

Book this converted school bus starting at $55 per night

The Lady Bluebird is a real school bus that dates back to 1984. It has been fully converted into a quirky private rental. With just 320 square feet, the space is compact, but incredibly cozy and filled with the comforts like a kitchenette, Queen bed, a full bathroom, and a dining nook with built-in wooden benches.

The host warns that the bus can sometimes be too hot or cold depending on the season, but supplies A/C and space heaters to help you combat the weather for the sake of the experience. In addition to a private entrance and patio, guests will have access to the fire pit and are free to borrow bikes. The bus is parked outside the host's home and also mentions that the family cat is quite friendly and may try to enter the bus if you leave the windows open, which may be a pro or con depending on whether you're a cat-lover.

You won't be able to book this popular bus until June 2021, but the calendar is fully open on weekdays and weekends for a summer or fall stay.

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Minimalist tiny home in Southeast Portland, $66

Book this minimalist tiny home starting at $66 per night

Warm, inviting, and larger than it would seem with notably high ceilings, this minimalist tiny home is a standalone structure located in the host's backyard. The interior is brand new with a sleek bohemian design style with spacious places for relaxing from the corner couch in the living room to the kitchen nook.

For a touch of fun, sliding doors separate the bedroom from the main living space, which is equipped with a washer, dryer, and closet with many bins for staying organized over a long stay. With stainless steel appliances and geometric tiling that carries from the kitchen into the bathroom, tasteful textures and splashes of color keep the design in sync. Located in Southeast Portland, the neighborhood offers plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops within walking distance.

A few weeks in January and February have already been booked up, but there are still a lot of available dates. At the time of writing, the calendar is not yet open for bookings after April 1, 2021.

Rating: 5.0

COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Bright guesthouse with private patio in Kenton, $70

Book this guesthouse with private patio starting at $70 per night

Straddling the neighborhoods of Kenton and Arbor Lodge in North Portland, this newly-built guesthouse offers a lot of space, light, and privacy near neighborhood businesses and the Max train. The fully-stocked kitchen has a blender, coffee grinder, and stovetop, but there is no oven. The living area is small, but sharp decor pieces like the glass coffee table and huge windows make it feel more open. 

Although it's a studio, the bedroom is tucked away in the back corner of the home, separated by a tasteful screen, and gets plenty of sunlight. The bathroom is modern and bright with chic white tiling. Next to the bed, a glass door leads out to a private enclosed patio with a small seating area.

There are plenty of available dates for most of the year currently.

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Chic mini house in Rose City Park, $74

Book this chic mini house starting at $74 per night

In the Rose City Park neighborhood, you can live our your tiny home dreams. Within walking distance of great coffee shops, a brewery, an independent movie theatre, and other well-loved local businesses, this is a great spot to base your trip to Portland. 

A small studio ideal for one or two guests, this home has everything you need for a short stay with a full kitchen, bathroom, and small dining space. Olive and white are the colors of choice in this abode, from the green pillows on the white duvet in the bedroom to the green wine glasses lining the shelves of the white-tiled kitchen. And with two skylights filling the rooms with light, the modern midcentury decor can really shine.

The kitchen is compact, but equipped with modern appliances and plenty of shelf space for a short visit. Vintage furniture pieces like two velvet armchairs and brass accents tie the look of this home together. 

There are scattered open dates for this listing in late January and early February, but the calendar really opens in March. 

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Woodland garden guest suite in Southwest Portland, $85

Book this woodland garden guest suite starting at $85 per night

If you need a bit more space and privacy, but don't want to stretch the budget too far, consider this one-bedroom garden suite that can sleep up to three people. Located in a quiet neighborhood on a dead-end street ten minutes from downtown, this 600 square-foot suite has a King-sized bed, fully-tiled bathroom, large living and entertainment area, and a spacious outdoor deck with a ping-pong table and fire pit.

On the property, the well-manicured garden features walking paths, a flowing creek, and a chicken coop. Inside, fun touches like a geometric accent wall and funky rugs give the home personality, while the lofted bedroom area keeps everything feeling open and spacious. The kitchenette is small, sharing a vanity sink with the bathroom, but with a mini-fridge and a microwave, it's suitable for a short-term stay.

Availability: This home is only bookable on weekdays from March to June. At the time of writing, the calendar is not accepting bookings after July 2, 2021.

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Quirky art studio home in Hawthorne, $89

Book this quirky art studio starting at $89 per night

If you want to stay in a place that feels more like a true artist's version of Portland and less like a design catalog, this studio home is overflowing with detailed art pieces and unconventional touches like the hanging abacus and fire hydrant decorating the bathroom.

While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, past guests rave about the home's whimsy and the host's hospitality, all for an exceptional price. The real value comes in the bonus amenities, which include two bikes for exploring the neighborhood, a record player, a ping-pong table, and complimentary welcome treats.

While this is a basement apartment, it has a private entrance, is fully secluded from the upstairs unit, includes a kitchenette with a few basic appliances like a toaster, and a private backyard. 

Availability: This home is fully available, but at the time of writing the calendar is not open for bookings after July 3, 2021.

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Colorful tiny home in North Portland, $97

Book this cozy tiny home starting at $97 per night

Full of color from the floor tiles to warm tones of the kitchen cupboards, this tiny home is lively and bright with vaulted ceilings and windows that let in the light from all sides. The space is small, but the booth-style dining area that sits across from a flatscreen TV is offers plenty of space for stretching out and relaxing.

At the front door, a small electric fireplace heats the home efficiently in the winter and adds a lot of character. Upstairs, the lofted bedroom is drenched in natural light from the large airy windows and a separate laundry closet with washer and dryer is just across the hall from a sizable bathroom with a tub. The home is located in an exciting neighborhood near Mississippi Avenue and past guests rave about the host's hospitality and thoughtful touches.

There are a lot of weekdays and still a few weekends available in January and the calendar is completely open from February through July. 

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Eclectic retreat in Boise, $101

Book this eclectic retreat starting at $101 per night

For a more hotel-like experience, this Airbnb Plus listing in the Boise neighborhood comes fully-equipped with all the amenities you need, from luxurious linens and room-darkening shades to high-end bath amenities and a hairdryer provided for guest use. The all-white color scheme helps the space feel extra clean and spacious.

In the living room and kitchen area, a sofa bed makes this one-bedroom large enough for four people, and with a modern kitchen, you'll have enough room to do some cooking during your visit. In the main bedroom, a unique roll-up glass garage door amplifies the natural light and can be opened fully to create a unique indoor/outdoor space with a private patio.

Outside, you'll also be able to enjoy a thoughtfully landscaped garden complete with a running fountain, outdoor dining area, and barbecue grill.

Most weekdays are still available in January and February, and the calendar is wide open from March through September.

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Artist loft in Alberta, $165

Book this artist loft starting at $165 per night

Near the Alberta Arts District, this spacious loft has eye-catching accents like a spiral staircase and exposed beams made of repurposed railroad cars. Not to mention the original flooring that dates back to 1910 and has been well-preserved.

The home is hyper-functional, with a lofted bedroom on top of the kitchen and bathroom area leaving plenty of room for a small dining table for two and a sectional couch in the living area. All the appliances are brand new and there's even a washer and dryer located in the kitchen. Recessed lighting and glass windows that stretch up to 30-feet high keep this home well-lit throughout the day and night. Outdoors, you'll find a small and private patio with a seating area.

This listing is mostly still available for January and completely open, except for a few days, from February through June. 

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

Penthouse loft in Mississippi, $175

Book this penthouse starting at $175 per night

Up to five people can sleep comfortably in this luxurious penthouse that overlooks Mississippi Avenue. Hidden away in a courtyard, the entrance to this condo is outside and the private access also features a bamboo garden with hanging hammocks for residents and guests to enjoy.

With two full bathrooms, a washer and dryer, and all the appliances you could need to take full advantage of the kitchen, the home is well set up for convenience. It's decorated in a modern minimalist style, with pinewood trimmings and a slim fireplace in the corner that adds sophisticated charm. The long outdoor balcony offers a nice view of the tree-filled neighborhood and the busy street down below.

One bedroom is much larger than the other, but there is also a lot of room to stretch out in the living and dining area, plus the kitchen has plenty of space for congregating.

The calendar is already filling out for January and February, but is completely open in March. Dates past April 2021 have not opened up yet.

Rating: 4.9

COVID-19 cleaning procedure: This home participates in Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program, meaning the host is committed to a rigorous cleaning protocol developed with leading health and hospitality experts.

For any payments company, tech is a huge part of the budget. Speed and security of a network can make or break a company like Amex or Mastercard. And as payments become increasingly digital, these infrastructure giants have to keep maintaining and updating rails and systems.

That means a large part of payments companies' headcount lies in tech.

Business Insider analyzed the US Office of Foreign Labor Certification's 2020 disclosure data for permanent and temporary foreign workers to see how much Amex, Mastercard, PayPal, Square, and Visa pay their technology employees, specifically engineers. The data only includes base pay, not bonuses or equity awards. 

Read more: JPMorgan tech salaries revealed: Here's what developers and engineers get paid at Wall Street's biggest bank

The salary data analyzed is based on jobs in the US. Data collected includes roles across 21 states, with almost half of the roles based in California.

Salary data for specific roles is either an average of multiple employees with the same title or a single individual. Some of the data includes a range as opposed to a specific salary.

Spokespersons for all five companies either declined to comment or did not return a request to comment in time for publication. 

SEE ALSO: POWER PLAYERS: Meet the 8 PayPal execs shaping the payment giant's future as its stock skyrockets and e-commerce surges

SEE ALSO: POWER PLAYERS: Meet 11 American Express execs leading the card giant's digital payments and small-business lending push

SEE ALSO: POWER PLAYERS: These are the 15 execs at Mastercard leading the card giant's strategies in new businesses focused on cybersecurity, data, and analytics

American Express

Engineer: $109,062

Quality engineer: $112,276

Senior quality engineer: $118,321

Senior engineer: $129,224

Staff engineer: $159,327

Engineering director: $171,910

Staff architect, machine learning: $210,000

Mastercard

Software engineer: $77,000 - $81,420

Software development engineer 2: $98,779 - $133,266

Senior software development engineer: $95,500 - $148,124

Lead software development engineer: $117,927 - $180,966

PayPal

Software Engineer: $123,276

Senior Software Engineer: $146,000

Merchant Tech Services Software Engineer: $171,207

Senior Merchant Tech Services Software Engineer: $213,366

Square

Machine learning engineer: $129,850

Senior Android engineer: $140,000

Software engineer: $157,844

Senior software engineer: $187,500

Android engineer: $189,200

Software engineer, iOS: $203,750

Visa

Software engineer: $74,956 - $107,870

Senior software test engineer: $93,889 - $121,885

Senior software engineer: $96,852 - $136,792

Cybersecurity engineer: $95,055 - $138,935

Staff engineer: $120,581 - $166,917

Senior cybersecurity engineer: $124,483 - $167,769

Senior staff engineer: $131,762 - $197,968

Lead software engineer: $141,153 - $207,569

Marijuana legalization is spreading around the US. 

Since 2012, 15 states and Washington, DC, have legalized marijuana for adults over the age of 21. And 36 states have legalized medical marijuana — meaning that a majority of Americans now have some form of access to marijuana, whether medically or recreationally.

Four more states — New Jersey, Arizona, Montana, and South Dakota — just voted to legalize recreational cannabis, though it won't become legal immediately. On top of that, voters in Mississippi backed the creation of a medical cannabis program.

Though Canada legalized marijuana federally in 2018, the US has not followed suit, forcing states to chart their own courses. As it stands, marijuana is still considered an illegal Schedule I drug by the US federal government.

Joe Biden's victory in the presidential election and the Democratic party's control of Congress, could give marijuana a bigger boost in the US. The House in December voted on a bill to legalize marijuana and expunge the records of those convicted under previous laws, the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act, though the legislation was considered a nonstarter when Republicans controlled the Senate.

Cowen analyst Vivien Azer said in a January 6 note that with a Democratic-controlled government, cannabis-related legislation — like the STATES Act or MORE Act — has a better chance of passing through Congress, creating big opportunities for the US industry.

"[W]e expect Congress will give cannabis companies access to commercial banking and insurance," Azer wrote. "We also see medical cannabis being protected. Capital markets access is largely dependent upon enactment of either the STATES Act or the MORE Act." 

Biden has said he would support federal decriminalization of the drug. Vice-president-elect Kamala Harris sponsored a previous version of the MORE Act in the Senate. A Democratic administration would sign that — or a similar legalization bill — into law if passed in the House and Senate.

Despite the political back-and-forth, most Americans want legal marijuana, according to recent polls. Sixty-seven percent of Americans polled by Pew Research said marijuana should be legal, with only 32% in opposition.

All the states where marijuana is legal: 

This article was first published in January 2018 and has been updated with new information about where cannabis is legal and the results from Georgia's runoff elections. Melia Russell contributed to an earlier version of this report. 

SEE ALSO: Marijuana companies are using a 'backdoor' strategy to tap the public markets — and it's fueling an M&A boom

Alaska

Adults 21 and over can light up in Alaska. In 2015, the northernmost US state made it legal for residents to use, possess, and transport up to an ounce of marijuana— roughly a sandwich bag full — for recreational use. The first pot shop opened for business in 2016.

Alaska has pounced on the opportunity to make its recreational-pot shops a destination for tourists. More than 2 million people visit Alaska annually and spend $2 billion.

Arizona

Arizona in 2020 voted to legalize cannabis for all adults over the age of 21. 

The measure had support from almost 60% of Arizona voters, according to preliminary results from Decision Desk HQ. 

The ballot measure was backed by a number of cannabis giants, including Curaleaf, Cresco, and Harvest Enterprises. 

The Arizona Department of Health Services is required to lay out adult-use cannabis regulations by April 5, 2021.  

California

In 1996, California became the first state to legalize medical marijuana. California became even more pot-friendly in 2016 when it made it legal to use and carry up to 1 ounce of marijuana.

The law also permits adults 21 and over to buy up to 8 grams of marijuana concentrates, which are found in edibles, and grow no more than six marijuana plants per household.

Colorado

In Colorado, there are more marijuana dispensaries than Starbucks and McDonald's combined. The state joined Washington in becoming the first two states to fully legalize the drug in 2012.

Residents and tourists over the age of 21 can buy up to 1 ounce of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrates. Some Colorado counties and cities have passed more restrictive laws.

Illinois

Illinois lawmakers in June 2019 passed a bill that legalized the possession and commercial sale of marijuana in the state starting on January 1.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who made marijuana legalization a core component of his campaign for the governor's office, signed the bill into law.

For its part, Illinois is the first state to legalize marijuana sales through a state legislature, rather than a ballot initiative.

Maine

A ballot initiative in 2016 gave Maine residents the right to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana, more than double the limit in most other states.

Recreational-marijuana dispensaries are set to open in Maine in October.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts was the first state on the East Coast to legalize marijuana after voters approved the measure in 2016. 

Marijuana dispensaries opened their doors to consumers in November 2018. Adults over the age of 21 can purchase up to 1 ounce of marijuana but cannot consume it in public.

Michigan

Voters in Michigan passed Proposition 1 in 2018, making it the first state in the Midwest to legalize the possession and sale of marijuana for adults over the age of 21. Adults can possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana, and residents can grow up to 12 plants at home.

The law is more permissive than other states with legal marijuana: Most allow residents to possess only up to 1 ounce at a time.

Marijuana dispensaries in Michigan opened on December 1.

Montana

Montana in 2020 voted to legalize recreational marijuana for adults 21 and over. 

Montana residents will officially be allowed to use marijuana as of January 1, 2021. A year later, the state would begin to open up applications for dispensaries. 

New Jersey

New Jersey in 2020 voted to legalize recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older, opening a market that could near $1 billion given New Jersey's proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. 

It might be some time before New Jersey residents can purchase marijuana legally. At the earliest it could take effect in January 2021, but as of early January, state lawmakers have yet to finalize a framework around a recreational cannabis program.

Nevada

Residents and tourists who are 21 and over can buy 1 ounce of marijuana or one-eighth of an ounce of edibles or concentrates in Nevada. Less than two weeks after sales of recreational weed began on July 1, 2017, many stores ran out of marijuana to sell.

There's bad news if you want to grow your own bud, though. Nevada residents must live 25 miles outside the nearest dispensary to be eligible for a grower's license.

Oregon

Oregon legalized marijuana in 2015, and sales in the state started October 1 of that year. 

Sales in Oregon pot shops have exploded since legalization: They're expected to top $1 billion by 2020, Portland Business Journal reported.

South Dakota

South Dakota in 2020 voted to legalize both medical and recreational cannabis, the first time a state has voted in favor of both at the same time.

State lawmakers have until April 2o22 to create rules around cannabis, including regulations around dispensaries.  

Vermont

Vermont became the first state to legalize marijuana through the legislature, rather than a ballot initiative, when Republic Gov. Phil Scott signed a bill into law in January 2018.

Adults in the Green Mountain State can carry up to 1 ounce of marijuana and grow no more than two plants for recreational use. The law went into effect in July 2018. But it is limited in scope. It doesn't establish a legal market for the production and sale of the drug, though the Vermont Legislature is working on adopting rules to create a recreational market.

Washington

Marijuana was legalized for recreational use in Washington in 2012.

The state allows people to carry up to 1 ounce of marijuana, but they must use the drug for medicinal purposes to be eligible for a grower's license.

Washington, DC

Residents in the nation's capital voted overwhelmingly to legalize marijuana for adult use in November 2014.

The bill took effect in 2015, allowing people to possess 2 ounces or less of marijuana and "gift" up to an ounce, if neither money nor goods or services are exchanged.

David Perdue is currently the only ex-Fortune 500 CEO serving in the United States Senate. But the Senator won't be in Congress for much longer, now that Democratic challenger Jon Ossoff has officially defeated the Republican in a runoff race.

Perdue had served as a Senator for Georgia since 2015. Before that, Perdue was a top executive at a number of high profile companies, including Reebok and Dollar General. As a result of his time in the private sector, Perdue is one of the wealthiest members of congress. In 2018, the Center for Responsive Politics estimated that Perdue was worth over $25 million.

"During his over 40 year career in business, Senator Perdue created thousands of American jobs while taking companies like Reebok and Dollar General to new heights," a spokesperson from Perdue's 2020 senatorial campaign told Business Insider. "His leadership helped countless families find new economic opportunities that allowed them to achieve the American dream."

The Georgia Republican has also proved to be a controversial figure in national politics, owing to his unflagging support for President Donald Trump.

Here's a look at Perdue's career in business and politics:

SEE ALSO: Republican senator David Perdue deletes campaign ad that enlarged Jewish opponent's nose amid charges of anti-Semitism

Perdue was raised by two educators in Georgia

Perdue is a Georgia native. He was born in Macon, and grew up in the city of Warner Robins.

His parents both worked in public education. Perdue's mother was a teacher, and his father became the superintendent of the school system in Georgia's Houston County. The Atlanta Constitution reported in 1964 that Perdue's father led the county through a voluntary racial desegregation process.

Perdue himself attended Lindsey Elementary School, where he met his future wife Bonnie Dunn.

The senator told Business Insider in 2018 that his father gave him crucial advice that shaped his entire career in both business and politics: "Take care of the job you got and everything else will take care of itself."

After securing an engineering degree, Perdue spent much of his career working with apparel companies

Perdue attended the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he received a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering and a master's degree in operations research. The senator has said he punctuated his studies with "warehouse and construction jobs."

After he graduated from Georgia Tech in 1972, Perdue married Dunn. Today, they have two sons and three grandchildren.

Perdue's first post-college job was with Kurt Salmon Associates. In 2014, Politico reported on a 2005 deposition in which Perdue spoke about his 12 years at the  management consulting company.

Perdue said that "... some of my experience there was helping footwear companies develop the ability to import shoes from Asia, specifically Taiwan, Korea, China, Indonesia, Malaysia." The deposition focused on Perdue's career, at times singling out his role in helping outsource jobs overseas. 

Perdue also said in the 2005 deposition that he became a partner at Kurt Salmon after four years. After that, he moved to Professional Planning Associates and then became president of Westar Holding Company. 

After that, Perdue pivoted to running different companies' operations in Asia. He went to work for Gitano in Singapore and then the Sara Lee Corporation in Hong Kong. At Sara Lee, he became senior vice president of operations by 1992. In 1994, Perdue was recruited by Dallas-based Haggar Clothing as a senior vice president of operations.

Reebok was where Perdue first entered the C-suite

In 1998, Perdue went to work for a company he'd eventually lead: Reebok. He entered the shoe business as an SVP in 1998. By 2001, he was CEO.

Perdue's experience at Gitano and Sara Lee rendered him a good fit for the shoe-maker. In a 2005 deposition, Perdue said that nearly all of Reebok's production was sourced from Asia. 

By 2000, Time reported that Perdue was running the company's "main lines of business, sneakers, and apparel," with an eye toward making the brand more relevant to women and children.

According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Perdue also spearheaded a shoe contract with the National Football League that fellow executives lauded as "revolutionary." The AJC also reported that the former CEO's legacy at the shoe brand was marked with his penchant for "signing on top athletes and musicians to hawk Reebok sneakers."

In July 2002, Perdue's stint at Reebok came to an end. The next phase of his career would prove controversial after he entered the political realm.

The senator spent nine months at a textile company that went under

Fresh off his success at Reebok, Perdue took on the top job at a textile manufacturing firm called Pillowtex. Perdue's critics and opponents would later hold up his stint at the Kannapolis, North Carolina-based company for extra scrutiny.

The Atlanta Constitution-Journal reported that Perdue characterized his career in business as having been spent "running toward burning buildings." Pillowtex was a company on shaky ground, mired by debt and a major pension shortfall. By the time Perdue took the helm, it had already filed for bankruptcy protection and laid off hundreds of employees.

"I've taken risks," Perdue told the AJC. "They haven't all been five-star successes."

After nine months running Pillowtex, Perdue departed the role of CEO. According to the Atlanta Constitution-Journal, Perdue earned $1.3 million for his work. 

Pillowtex ended up filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy shortly after Perdue left. Over 7,000 workers lost their jobs. As of 2003, it was the single largest job loss event in North Carolina history, according to the Greensboro News & Record.

In 2014, Politifact rated the claim that Perdue ran Pillotex into the ground was "mostly false," given the company's immense struggles prior to his arrival.

Perdue moved on to lead Dollar General through a massive overhaul

But Perdue quickly rebounded after the implosion of Pillowtex. 

On April 3, 2003, Dollar General announced that Perdue was set to take over the role of CEO from acting CEO Donald Shaffer. In the statements, Dollar General's board chairman Cal Turner touted Perdue's "proven record of making things happen." Perdue was the first person outside the Turner family to run the dollar store chain. 

"Dollar General is a great company with clear mission and purpose — making life better for its customers," Perdue said in the statement. "I look forward to working with the board and management in building on the previous success of this great company."

According to a report by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Perdue grew the chain from a fleet of 5,900 stores to 8,500 stores, and eventually paved the way for a buyout by private equity firm KKR in 2007. Perdue moved on from Dollar General that same year.

The sale has left Dollar General as one of the most powerful names in the dollar store business. But it was not without controversy. AJC reported that Dollar General had to settle a series of lawsuits with a $42 million payout in 2009 after accusations arose that Perdue and other executives undervalued the KKR deal. 

In 2014, Perdue began to pivot from business to politics

Before he began his political career in full, Perdue served on the board of the Georgia Ports Authority at the behest of his cousin, former Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The two cousins also founded a company together in 2011: Perdue Partners. Sonny Perdue is currently the Secretary of Agriculture.

Three years later, Perdue launched his bid for Georgia's open Senate seat. The former CEO campaigned heavily on his business record, although opponents criticized his role in outsourcing jobs and shuttering Pillowtex.

Perdue ultimately won over Democratic candidate Michelle Nunn. The Georgia politician quickly became aligned with the "bear Den," a group of Republicans who were elected to the Senate in 2014.

Perdue has become one of President Donald Trump's close allies in the Senate

In the Senate, Perdue has emerged as one of Trump's staunchest allies, aligning with the president on nearly all issues. The senator was one of the few Republicans to actively support Trump throughout his "Access Hollywood" scandal before the 2016 election.

Perdue has argued for the elimination of the Environmental Protection Agency, called on the president to drop out of the Paris Agreement, and co-sponsored a bill allowing states to pass legislation that would require contractors to pledge to never boycott goods from Israel.

Trump's signature Tax Cuts and Jobs Act also received a vote from Perdue in 2017.

Perdue was present when Trump reportedly referred to a group of African countries as "s---hole nations," along with a number of other members of Congress. Perdue said he did not remember the words the president used and then told the press that the president did not use those words.

In April 2020, Trump appointed Perdue to his bi-partisan Congressional Economic Task Force, which is tasked with getting the economy back on track during the coronavirus pandemic.

On a personal level, Business Insider reported in 2018 that Perdue and Trump have bonded over games of golf and their experience in the private sector. Perdue said that Trump would frequently call him to discuss ideas early in the morning.

"As a business guy, we have a point in commonality," Perdue told Business Insider in 2018. "Number one, all we want is results."

The senator is up against Jon Ossoff in a closely-watched Senate election, and his campaign has incurred allegations of anti-Semitism

Six years after he initially secured his Senate seat, Perdue is facing a serious challenge for his Georgia Senate seat. And the senator has also faced a recent controversy over his campaign.

Perdue's campaign ran a Facebook ad in July showing his opponent Jon Ossoff — who is Jewish — with an enlarged nose. The Republican's campaign cited a photo-editing mistake, while Ossoff accused the incumbent of relying on an anti-Semitic trope.

"In light of an unfortunate and inadvertent error involving one of our Facebook advertisements produced and placed by an outside vendor, our campaign will be making a change to a new digital fundraising company," Perdue for Senate Campaign Manager Ben Fry said in a statement sent to Business Insider. "Senator Perdue did not know about nor see the ad before it ran, and he is committed to ensuring future mistakes of this kind do not occur."   

A Perdue for Senate spokesperson added that Perdue has a "strong and consistent record of standing firmly against anti-Semitism and all forms of hate."

With both a private sector reputation and a senatorial record behind him, Perdue still plans to run on his career as a successful businessman in 2020.

A spokesperson for Perdue's campaign reiterated the senator's status as the creator of thousands of jobs at Dollar General. They listed his current priorities as being Georgia's response to COVID-19 — namely securing federal aid and funds for healthcare workers — and reforming, not defunding, police agencies.

Trump has stressed the importance of re-electing Perdue

Meanwhile, Perdue and his fellow Republican Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler, who is also up for reelection, have attracted much attention from the GOP as it strives to hang onto its Senate majority.

The Georgia race was thrust further into the spotlight after The Washington Post published a leaked call between Trump and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. During the call, the president stressed the importance of the "big election coming up" for Perdue and Loeffler.

Andrew Weissmann, a former prosecutor on Robert Mueller's Russia investigation, tweeted that Trump's call — which featured the president pushing Raffensperger to "find" him enough votes to win in Georgia — proved to be a clear indication of criminal intent. But, on Fox News, Perdue simply said it was "disgusting" that the controversial tape was leaked at all.

Perdue has lost his Senate seat to Jon Ossoff

Ossoff has officially triumphed over Perdue in the Georgia Senate race. Decision Desk HQ called the race for the Democratic challenger, who raked in 50.31% of the vote, over Perdue's 49.69%. 

In the days before the election, Perdue had been forced to pull back from his campaign in the days leading up to the election. Now that Ossoff and fellow Democratic candidate Rev. Raphael Warnock prevailed over Perdue and Loeffler, the Democrats will control both the legislative and executive branches of government.

The senator was forced to go into quarantine after coming in contact with a person who tested positive for COVID-19. "Both Senator Perdue and his wife tested negative today, but following his doctor's recommendations and in accordance with CDC guidelines, they will quarantine," a spokesperson for the campaign told Business Insider.

• It's surprisingly hard to find comfortable flats that actually look good with most outfits, but the Everlane Day Glove flats are our pick for the absolute best ones you can buy.
• We've also tested roughly 15 other pairs of flats for this guide, with additional favorites coming from brands like Rothy's and Margaux.
• Our picks for the best flats won't give you blisters, and they'll easily transition from work to weekends.

One of the most cliché but true pieces of fashion advice we all come across at one point or another is this: Buy at least one good pair of flats. Heels are great and all, but flats are the shoes that you can really live your life in. 

To use another cliché, comfort is key here. Otherwise, what's the point? Your flats should be cozy enough to wear morning and night, cute enough to elevate a basic outfit, but simple enough to go with most of the items in your closet. We've rounded up six pairs of flats that members of our team have personally tested or deeply researched to help you break the cycle of hope and bleeding ankles that so often comes with finding the perfect pair of shoes.

Here are the best flats for women:

• Best flats overall: Everlane Day Glove
• Best travel-friendly flats: Allbirds Tree Breezer
• Best sustainable flats: Rothy's Flat
• Best flats for wide feet: Margaux Demi
• Best luxury flats: Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerina

Updated on 1/04/2020 by Sally Kaplan: Replaced our former pick of M.Gemi Stellato Anello flats as the best luxury option with the Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerina. The pair we formerly recommended from M.Gemi is going out of production this season. We also updated the "What else we considered" section with testing notes for pairs we've tried but that didn't oust any of our current top picks. Lastly, we added more testing notes to our top picks after months (and in some case, years) of wear. We're in the process of testing more flats for this guide, including a pointy-toe option. Check back soon for our updated results. 

SEE ALSO: The best strapless bras you can buy

The best flats overall

The hardest part of shopping for flats is finding a pair that combines comfort, style, and versatility. Enter: The Day Glove flats by Everlane.

Pros: Molds to your foot shape over time cushioned insoles for support, ventilated, pull tab for easy slip-on

Cons: None to speak of, but note that a snug fit means you may want to size up.

This is it — the wear-with-anything shoe you've been waiting for all your life. Everlane's leather Day Glove flat is an almost (but not quite) ballet slipper guaranteed to go with just about all your clothing, even workwear. It's like the perfect "nothing" shoe. It's cute enough not to ruin your outfit but plain enough not to make a huge statement.

Everlane's popular Day Gloves are a staple in the wardrobe of nearly every style writer and editor on our team. We wrote up a full review after test-driving these flats, and they remain an all-time favorite. "Everlane's Day Glove flats are much more comfortable than any other flats I've tried," writes deputy editor Malarie Gokey, "They actually fit my foot and move with me — not against me."

The leather molds to the foot, so not only will the flats last, they'll get more comfortable over time. The shoes also feature pull tabs, ventilation holes, and comfy insoles to eliminate some of the most common comfort-related issues flats pose. The Day Glove flats come in tons of colors, including classics like black and white as well as some fun shades and prints like metallic silver and snakeskin.

They cost $118-$128, and while not inexpensive, it's a steal for shoes that will last you for as long as these do. Several of us have been wearing the same pair for the past two years, with plenty of life in them left. As far as sizing goes, they come in whole sizes only, so we recommend going up if you're a half size.

In addition to the original leather style, you might also consider the new Mesh version for summer heat or the ReKnit version, which has a textured, breathable knit upper and is made from recycled materials.  — Erin Mayer and Sally Kaplan

Read our full Everlane Day Glove review here

The best travel-friendly flats

You don't have to resort to wearing sneakers when you travel thanks to the soft, pliable, and supportive Allbirds Tree Breezer.

Pros: First Allbirds style available in half sizes, lightweight, foldable, machine-washable 

Cons: Not as sleek as other pairs 

Allbirds is probably better known for its Silicon Valley uniform-mandated sneakers like the Wool Runners and Tree Runners. But when you don't want to wear sneakers but still need the same comfort and support, you're better off with its flats, the Tree Breezer.

These are the flats you'll want to pack in your suitcase because a) they're very light and you can fold them up to maximize packing space, and b) you can walk around in them all day long.

Quell any fears you have of hobbling through a walking tour or calling it an early night because your feet have become one giant blister. The Breezers have bouncy outsoles made from sugarcane and soft, odor-minimizing merino wool-lined insoles. The knit collar wraps onto your foot securely, and the rest of the shoe's knit body is breathable and feels silky smooth against your skin. Plus, they're machine-washable, so they're easy to take care of even if you get them all grubby on your trip.

Since the style is more sleek and formal than Allbirds' other shoes, they won't look out of place in a dressier environment. Instead of packing multiple pairs of shoes, you can just bring your all-in-one Tree Breezer flats. If you don't have a chance to try them first before you board your flight, don't worry — most of the Insider Reviews team didn't need to break them in. — Connie Chen

Read our full Allbirds Tree Breezer review here

The best sustainable flats

On top of being versatile, lightweight, and machine-washable, the Rothy's Flat is sustainably made and comes in a pointed-toe silhouette. It's the ideal shoe for the conscious consumer. 

Pros: Eco-friendly construction, machine-washable, don't stretch out over time, good variety of rotating colors and patterns 

Cons: Fit might be narrow (particularly the pointed-toe style), so could need to size up 

Shoe brand Rothy's was born out of the desire to repurpose wasteful, single-use plastics into something beautiful and practical. All of its knit shoes are made from 100% post-consumer plastic water bottles, which are hot washed, sterilized, then fused into a fiber that is knit into yarn. 

The insoles contain recycled foam, while the rubber soles are carbon-free. The adhesives used are non-toxic and vegan. Even the packaging is made from post-consumer recycled materials and is biodegradable.

The lofty challenge of reducing your impact on the planet feels more manageable when you start with the things you use in your everyday life. Thanks to Rothy's, the endeavor won't compromise style or comfort.

Rothy's Flat is the choice for many modern working women because it boasts zero break-in time, a sleek look, and moisture-wicking breathability. You'll feel the difference immediately after slipping your feet in; the flats are very light and flexible, with a bit of give, and there aren't any uncomfortable seams or edges. They come with either round, square, or pointed-toe silhouettes.  

Keeping them in top shape is as easy as throwing them in the washing machine. You can also buy extra insoles to help prolong their life. After wearing them often (and you will because of their versatility), you might wonder if they'll actually hold up. But we've been wearing and washing our pairs for more than a year and they look and feel as good as they did on day one. 

And the brand makes flats that can even transition to chillier temperatures, too. A version made from a mix of Merino wool and Rothy's signature thread made from plastic water bottles is part of their new Merino collection. The result is a cute, comfortable shoe that also keeps your feet warm, not sweaty. — Connie Chen

Read our full Rothy's Flat review here

The best flats for wide feet

Margaux's Demi Flat comes in three different shoe widths, so you never have to miss out on a cute flat style because of your foot shape. 

Pros: Available in half sizes and three widths, elegant design, high-quality construction

Cons: Smaller color and pattern variety than other flat brands, can take some break-in time at the heel

Ballet flats look deceptively simple. You know if you're reading this guide that it's hard to get the fit just right — some pairs gape, while others rely on uncomfortable heel elastics to stay on your foot. 

You won't encounter this problem with Margaux. It makes flats in a large range of sizes (from 3 through 14), including half sizes. Instead of suggesting you size up or down for wide and narrow feet, the company ensures fit precision by offering each size in Narrow, Medium, and Wide widths. There's also a made-to-order option for a truly custom fit. 

The Demi Flat from Margaux is a simple and elegant ballet flat. Senior editor Sally Kaplan, who has tried both Medium and Wide pairs of the flat, realized, "With all the walking I do, my feet end up swelling a bit, and the wide pair is more comfortable for long days out."

They feature plush foam padding to give your foot some support, as well as a small heel so you're not walking completely flat on the ground. The bow at the top of the shoe is adjustable in case you want to give your foot even more breathing room. 

You can get the flats in two luxuriously soft and flexible materials, Italian suede or Italian napa leather, which each come in a small selection of colors that show off the materials beautifully.

Though they're more expensive than average at $145 a pair, the way we see it, it's better to own one pair of really well-made flats than five pairs of fun ones that fall apart quickly. — Connie Chen

Read our full Margaux Demi Flat review here

The best luxury flats

These designer flats by Mansur Gavriel are buttery-soft with a comfortable cushioned insole. They're not cheap, but they're a worthy investment considering how much wear you'll get out of them.

Pros: Extremely soft, leather molds to the foot easily, can have custom monogram added

Cons: None

There's something to be said for splurging on a really gorgeous pair of designer heels that you only wear on special occasions, but honestly, I've always felt that it makes more sense to spend that money on a practical pair you'll get more wear out of. A beautiful ballet flat that'll never go out of style is exactly the kind of shoe that deserves the designer treatment.

We think Mansur Gavriel's Dream Ballerinas are the absolute best designer flats out there. The $375 price tag isn't so unreasonable when compared to flats from brands like Chanel ($750+) or Louboutin ($500+), and the comfort rivals that of Everlane's Day flat, our best-overall pick on this list. 

Though I haven't had many places to wear them during the pandemic, I've been testing out Mansur Gavriel's ballet flats around my apartment for the past month or so (provided by the brand as part of my testing efforts for this guide). The lambskin leather is buttery soft and the insoles provide enough cushion that the flats wear almost like a loafer. The bow on the shoe is actually functional, so you can use it to tighten or loosen the opening. The bottom of the shoe has just enough traction that I feel comfortable on slippery tile surfaces, which can't be said for other slick-bottomed designer pairs I've ultimately passed over. Ultimately, these flats have it all. And even after having tested every other pair of flats on this list, I can confidently say these are worth the cost.

As far as sizing goes, I am usually somewhere in between a 7.5 and 8, and I ordered a size 38 (the European equivalent of an 8). Mansur Gavriel's site says to order a full size up from your usual size, but in my experience, it's better to opt for either your true size or one half size up if you sometimes find your true size to be tight in other brands. — Sally Kaplan

Other flats we considered

Everlane ReKnit Day Glove Flat

We love these flats, but we opted to list the leather version as our best overall pick because the knit version gets dirty more easily, and it stretches out faster. This pair is still ultra-comfy, but it's very low in stock. You can read our full review of them here.

Everlane Mesh ReKnit Day Glove Flat

Like the leather and original knit pair, the Mesh ReKnit Day Gloves from Everlane are incredibly comfortable. They fit securely on the foot and the mesh material is super breathable. The downside is that the material is really only suited for warm weather, and the style is so casual that they may not be appropriate for more formal offices or occasions. 

Everlane The Day Ballet Flat

Everlane's classic ballet flat got an update with a slightly squared off toe, a look we're big fans of. The fit is fine and all of us who tried this pair liked them, but as far as comfort and color options go, they just don't beat out any other pairs on this list. You can read our full review here.

Rothy's Mary Jane Flats and The Point Flats

We're big fans of Rothy's, as evidenced by their inclusion in this guide as the best sustainable pair you can buy. Those of us who tested the rounded-toe flats you saw above were big fans, but many of us who tested the pointed styles like the Mary Janes and the classic pointy pair found them to be a bit too squished in the toe area. You can read our full review of the Mary Jane flats here and our review of the pointed-toe pairs (along with a few other styles) here.

Oliver Cabell Dream Flat

We tested these as a point of comparison against Everlane's Day Glove flat since they look so similar, but found that they just didn't compare in terms of comfort or fit. They're a perfectly fine pair of flats, but we did notice that the toe area of Oliver Cabell's leather flats creases outwards with every step. Even though these are a comfortable pair, we recommend sticking with Everlane for a better fit. 

Italic Bella Flat

Italic is a member-only shopping platform that sells brandless clothes, shoes, and accessories produced in the same factories used by luxury designers. Italic sells the items at-cost to its members, who pay $120 a year to shop from the site. 

While we tried and loved these designer-quality flats from Italic, which are made by the same manufacturer as Chanel and Prada, we didn't ultimately include them as a top pair because you have to be a member of Italic in order to purchase them. 

Vince Camuto Washable Flat

We tested this pair of flats specifically to compare them to Allbirds Breezer flats because they also claim to be washable and are theoretically great for travel. While we actually prefer the look of these flats to those from Allbirds, they just aren't quite as comfortable. The mesh is a little stiffer and the almond-shaped toe can cause a bit of squishing. 

What else we're currently testing

Right now, we're on the hunt for the perfect pointy-toe flat. We've tested pairs from Rothys and Everlane, but they weren't comfortable enough for us to include in this guide.

Currently, we're researching fan-favorite pointed-toe flats, like the ones from Margaux, and beginning the process of testing them for a new pick in this guide.

Check out our other women's style guides

The best leggings for work

The best places to buy women's sweaters

The best winter coats for women

The nation's capital entered mandatory curfew at 6 p.m. today following a never-before-seen siege on the US Capitol Building that saw rioters break into the legislature during a joint session of Congress and clash with federal police who attempted to hold them back. Protests surrounding the certification of the Electoral College quickly turned violent as supporters of President Donald Trump descended upon Congress following the president's speech near the White House.

Law enforcement agencies from around the capital including the United States Secret Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation arrived at the Capitol after the riots were underway. The neighboring states of Maryland and Virginia also sent National Guard and state police across the border into the District to assist. 

The siege left at least one person dead by gunshot, law enforcement officials told NBC News and the Washington Post, as well as countless injured. Law enforcement officials guarding the congressional chambers drew their weapons as rioters attempted to enter while pepper spray and tear gas were deployed. 

The Capitol itself also sustained damage as rioters broke windows and climbed scaffolding to gain entry. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi's office was also vandalized. 

Here's what the US Capitol Building looked like after rioters failed to overturn the 2020 US election.

SEE ALSO: Trump's biggest allies — including Ted Cruz, and Kellyanne Conway, and Mike Pence — are condemning the Capitol riots

DON'T MISS: American Airlines just ramped up its Boeing 737 Max operations after a week of successful trial flights

Protests quickly escalated to riots and pepper spray was used to block access into the building. The orange liquid now stains the Capitol walls.

US Capitol Police officers were forced to clean their eyes with water after tear gas and pepper spray was deployed.

Rioters broke windows to gain access to the Capitol Building, with some entering and exiting unscathed by law enforcement.

Countless broken windows like these can now be found around the building.

Security installations were rushed and the US Capitol Police was often overwhelmed since the rioters numbered in the hundreds.

Pelosi's office was one target of the rioters, who left a note saying "we will not back down" in all capital letters.

Her office was further vandalized with rioters breaking mirrors.

One rioter sat at Pelosi's desk and kicked his feet up.

He was later photographed seemingly unscathed outside of the Capitol with a piece of Pelosi's mail.

Multiple nooses were erected outside the Capitol.

Protesters erected a figure labeled "traitor" with a noose and its neck.

Media cameras were also destroyed and a noose was made from the cable wires. "AP equipment was stolen and destroyed during today's violent protests in Washington," the wire service told the Daily Beast.

Source: Twitter

By the time day turned to night, at least one person had been killed in the siege.

Read More: Woman shot dead after armed Trump supporters stormed the Capitol as lawmakers gathered to certify Biden's win

Thousands of pro-Trump rioters descended on the US Capitol building on Wednesday during Congress' attempt to certify Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 Presidential Election. Hundreds of those armed insurrectionists broke into the building itself, forcing members of Congress to huddle in safe locations until local police and members of the DC National Guard had secured the premises.

In addition to pro-Trump regalia, the group also sported clothing, accessories, and symbols associated with largely far-right, racist extremist groups. Below are images and descriptions of some of the most recognizable groups and symbols present at the Capitol.

The Kek flag

The flag, which mimics a Nazi war flag, is the purported banner for a fictional country known as "Kekistan" created by white nationalist users of 4chan, a messaging board home to racist and hateful chat groups. The nation is ruled by a frog-headed deity called "Kek," normally represented by Pepe the Frog. 

Washington Post reporter Rebecca Tan and CNN both captured a person waving a Kek flag at the Capitol on Wednesday.

The Three Percenters

The Three Percenters derive their name from a disputed historical claim that only 3% of Americans fought the British in the Revolutionary War. The extremist group exists within the US' so-called militia movement and is traditionally viewed as an anti-government group. However, many members are strong supporters of President Trump. 

QAnon supporters

One figure stood out among the mob that stormed the Capitol Wednesday: the "Q Shaman," Jake Angeli. Known for wearing red, white, and blue face paint and a horned helmet, Angeli has become a notable figure in the QAnon conspiracy theory movement, popping up at far-right rallies in Arizona in the last year, as The Arizona Republic reported. 

QAnon, the far-right conspiracy theory baselessly alleging that Trump is fighting a "deep-state cabal" of pedophiles and human traffickers, has played a massive role in organizing nationwide "Stop the Steal" protests in the two months since President-elect Joe Biden won the 2020 election. 

'Stop the Steal'

The "Stop the Steal" movement began on Election Day when Trump supporters protested for state election officials to stop counting ballots in an effort to maintain Trump's early-in-the-race lead. Since then, the movement has evolved into a conspiracy theory claiming, with no evidence, that vast electoral fraud swayed the 2020 election in President-elect Joe Biden's favor.

In November and December, loosely organized "Stop the Steal" groups hosted rallies in Washington, DC, Michigan, Las Vegas, Atlanta, and Ohio.

Nooses and 'Day of the rope'

Multiple nooses appeared near the Capitol on Wednesday, including the setup above, one around the neck of a mannequin, and one made out of cables from some Associated Press camera equipment.

Additionally, Twitter users and members of militant chat rooms made numerous references to "Day of the Rope," a white supremacist concept taken from The Turner Diaries, an infamous novel by the former leader of the neo-Nazi National Alliance. The concept refers to a day when white supremacists lynch masses of "race traitors," including journalists and politicians.

The Confederate flag

The flag of the Confederate States of America, which seceded from the United States and fought in the Civil War in an effort to continue the institution of slavery, is often used as a hate symbol or an emblem of white supremacy. Rioters brought that flag into the US Capitol on Wednesday.

Proud Boys

The Proud Boys, founded by Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes, rose to national prominence after Trump and Biden name-checked them at the first presidential debate.  Members of the far-right group describe themselves as "western chauvinists," according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. The group has violently clashed with the anti-fascist movement.

The Proud Boys' chairman, Enrique Tarrio, announced on Parler earlier this week that the group would be attending Wednesday's rally "incognito," dressed in all black instead of their usual black-and-yellow uniform with MAGA hats. Tarrio was arrested earlier this week ahead of the rally.

Black Hebrew Israelites

The Black Hebrew Israelites is a movement of people who believe that Black descendants of slaves are the true Hebrews, or God's chosen people. The Southern Poverty Law Center has labeled the movement a hate group, as they view Jewish people as "impostors."

Daily Beast reporter Will Sommer tweeted a photo of what he said was a group of people dressed in clothing denoting the group outside of the Capitol.

National Anarchist Movement (N-AM)

Unlike traditional anarchism, which is anti-racist, the National Anarchist Movement is a far-right, antisemitic group advocating for racial separatism. The organization's website states that "an elite coterie of Jews and their allies have effectively manipulated world events for their own interests" and refers to this group as "vampiric parasites."