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Challenger Dan Sullivan says Alaska Senate run is his choice, not a Democratic scheme

Illustration accompanying article: Challenger Dan Sullivan says Alaska Senate run is his choice, not a Democratic
  • Challenger Dan Sullivan, a Republican who shares his name and party with the incumbent, said his run for Alaska's U.S. Senate seat is his own decision and not a Democratic plot to confuse voters.
  • Sullivan acknowledged that sharing the name and party affiliation gives him an "instant megaphone" in the crowded August primary.
  • Incumbent Sen. Dan Sullivan accused the challenger of "trying to trick" voters to benefit Democratic candidate Mary Peltola, a charge Peltola's campaign denies.
  • The challenger said he has considered running for more than a decade and that friends have jokingly referred to him as senator.
 3 MIN READ

House panel approves GSA headquarters renovation

Illustration accompanying article: House panel approves GSA headquarters renovation
  • The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee approved full financial support for the GSA headquarters renovation on June 4, 2026, clearing the way for the project to proceed.
  • GSA Administrator Edward C. Frost said the approval will allow the agency to build a "high-quality and dynamic federal campus" at the 1800 F Street NW building.
  • The GSA's current headquarters was found to have serious indoor air quality problems in 2021, and 40% of the building was declared uninhabitable in 2022.
  • The renovation is budgeted at $239 million, with completion scheduled for December 2028, replacing an earlier 2031 target.
 3 MIN READ
Illustration accompanying article: Republicans defect from Trump as House passes Iran war powers resolution

30-year mortgage rate holds at 6.48% as Fed's limited influence frustrates homebuyers

2026-06-05

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate stood at 6.48% as of June 4, remaining near recent highs as homebuyers contend with persistent borrowing costs, according to Freddie Mac. The Federal Reserve's ability to lower mortgage rates is limited, as the cost of home loans is driven primarily by bond markets rather than short-term Fed policy, analysts said.

House passes Ukraine aid bill in second break with Trump this week

2026-06-05

The House passed legislation Thursday that would provide more than $1 billion in security and reconstruction aid to Ukraine and sanction key segments of the Russian economy, in a 226-195 vote that defied Republican leaders and marked the chamber's second major foreign policy break with President Donald Trump this week.

Congress sends Trump nearly $70B to fund deportation agenda

2026-06-05

The Senate early Friday approved nearly $70 billion in additional funding for the Department of Homeland Security, virtually without conditions, providing President Donald Trump’s mass deportation campaign with an essentially uninterrupted flow of money through the remainder of his term. The package now heads to the Republican-controlled House.

Volodymyr Zelensky invites Vladimir Putin to face-to-face peace talks

2026-06-05

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday challenged Russian President Vladimir Putin to meet him face-to-face to negotiate an end to the four-year war, in an open letter that proposed a cease-fire during talks and rejected Russian suggestions to meet in Moscow.

States pursue limited alternatives after Supreme Court weakens Voting Rights Act

2026-06-05

The U.S. Supreme Court has left minority voters with limited options for combating racial discrimination in redistricting after its ruling in *Louisiana v. Callais*, which many legal experts say has made Section 2 of the federal Voting Rights Act practically impossible to enforce. State-level voting rights acts and strategic map-drawing in Democratic-controlled states offer partial remedies, but cannot fully replace the nationwide protections the court has hollowed out.

Senate Republicans keep Trump $1.8bn ally payout fund alive

2026-06-05

Senate Republicans on Thursday narrowly defeated a Democratic attempt to block President Donald Trump from using a $1.8 billion fund to pay financial settlements to allies, including people connected to the January 6 insurrection. The 49-50 vote kept the president’s controversial “anti-weaponization” fund alive for now, even as dissent over the proposal spread within his own party.

Democrats spar over AI money in fiery Manhattan debate

2026-06-05

Candidates for a competitive Manhattan congressional seat clashed during a debate Thursday night, with state Assembly Member Alex Bores — a leading proponent of AI regulation — becoming the primary target amid a surge of outside spending from technology companies.

Scott Pelley's firing resonated as workers' revenge fantasy

2026-06-05

Scott Pelley's public rebuke of CBS management, a searing critique of his bosses' credentials and motives that led to his firing from "60 Minutes," has struck a chord with workers across the country who see in his exit the kind of workplace defiance they can only imagine.

Arctic Refuge oil and gas lease sale draws limited bids

2026-06-05

The Bureau of Land Management awarded oil and gas leases on five tracts totaling about 72,000 acres in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge's coastal plain on Friday, drawing winning bids of $3.7 million in what critics described as tepid industry interest.

More US states legalize plug-in 'balcony' solar as energy bills climb

2026-06-05

Residents of Utah and Maryland can now plug solar panels directly into a standard wall outlet to offset home electricity use, and seven additional states have passed laws this year to legalize the practice, according to state legislation and a nonprofit that tracks the technology.

Acting ICE director orders agency to stop reporting deaths of recently released detainees

2026-06-05

Acting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director David Venturella has issued a memo ordering the agency to stop reporting and investigating deaths of detainees that occur within 30 days of their release, rescinding a Biden-era policy intended to prevent the agency from avoiding accountability by releasing severely ill people from custody.

Trump calls on acting intelligence chief Pulte to fire workers, shrink agency

2026-06-05

President Trump said he wants Bill Pulte, his incoming acting director of national intelligence, to fire a large number of employees and reduce the size of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, warning the agency overseeing 18 federal intelligence units is "unnecessary and/or too big."

Lioness Season 3 to premiere on Paramount+ in August

2026-06-05

Paramount+ will premiere the third season of its spy thriller Lioness on Aug. 2, the streaming service announced Friday. The series, from Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan, stars Zoe Saldaña and Nicole Kidman.

Government credit card misuse sparks backlash as audits mount

2026-06-05

The former town manager of Pilot Mountain, North Carolina, was indicted on May 11 on a felony embezzlement charge for allegedly using taxpayer money to pay for personal expenses including hotel stays, restaurant meals and ammunition, according to a state auditor's report. The case has become a flashpoint in a growing nationwide backlash against government purchasing card abuse, as independent watchdogs and state auditors intensify scrutiny of public officials' spending.

Mario Lopez to host Presidential 1776 Award civics competition on CBS

2026-06-05

Actor and television personality Mario Lopez will host the first-ever Presidential 1776 Award national finals, a civics competition for high school students, airing June 30 on CBS. The event, presented by the U.S. Department of Education as part of the America250 celebration, will bring finalists from across the country to Washington to answer questions about the Constitution and American history.

NYC consumer watchdog takes on junk fees and deceptive subscriptions

2026-06-05

New York City's new commissioner of consumer and worker protection, Samuel AA Levine, is launching an aggressive campaign against junk fees and deceptive subscription practices, warning that the United States has suffered a decades-long 'epidemic of corporate lawbreaking with very few repercussions.'

Art institute professor suspended after case study mentions Palestinians

2026-06-05

Savneet Talwar, a tenured art therapy professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, was suspended from teaching and placed under investigation after a student complained about an assigned case study that mentioned violence against Palestinians, according to Talwar and documents reviewed by the Guardian.

Japan PM Says Yen Defense Depends on Economic Strength, Not Intervention

2026-06-05

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Friday that the government aims to defend the yen's credibility by strengthening the economy, signaling a strategic shift away from direct currency intervention as the yen weakens to near 160 against the dollar despite record spending.

Harris and Newsom weigh potential 2028 presidential showdown

2026-06-05

Former Vice President Kamala Harris and California Gov. Gavin Newsom are widely expected to mount presidential bids in 2028, setting up what would be the first direct electoral matchup of a two-decade relationship defined by competition, cautious cooperation and mutual wariness, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Supreme Court term yields blockbuster rulings on trade, voting rights

2026-06-04

The Supreme Court's 2025-26 term has produced major decisions affecting President Trump's trade policies and the Voting Rights Act, with dozens more rulings expected before the justices break for summer in early July, according to a Wall Street Journal summary of the term's most notable cases.

Democratic-led states sue to block student loan caps for nursing, health degrees

2026-06-04

Twenty-four Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit this week seeking to block new federal caps on student loan borrowing for graduate degrees in nursing, medicine and other health professions, arguing the limits will worsen a national nursing shortage that is already acute in rural areas. The rules, set to take effect July 1, were approved by Congress as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and are defended by the Trump administration as a measure to curb rising tuition costs.

House passes Iran war powers resolution with rare GOP defections

2026-06-04

The House of Representatives voted 215-208 on Wednesday to pass a war powers resolution that would require President Donald Trump to seek congressional approval for the ongoing military conflict with Iran or withdraw US forces. Four Republicans broke with their party to support the measure.

Supreme Court backs FCC in-house penalty system over wireless carriers

2026-06-04

The Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the Federal Communications Commission's authority to levy fines through in-house proceedings, ruling 8-1 against wireless carriers AT&T and Verizon in a case that tested the constitutional right to a jury trial in agency enforcement actions.

Israel and Lebanon agree to renew ceasefire as Trump seeks to overcome Iran deal barriers

2026-06-04

Israel and Lebanon have agreed to implement a ceasefire to end hostilities, the Trump administration announced Wednesday, as the US looks to overcome one of the largest barriers to reaching a broader deal to end the war with Iran. The agreement is contingent on a complete cessation of fire from the Iran-aligned Hezbollah armed group and the evacuation of all its fighters from the area south of the Litani River in southern Lebanon, according to a joint statement released by the US State Department after negotiations in Washington.

Fox Kennedy says she quit White House over CIA spending oversight

2026-06-04

Amaryllis Fox Kennedy, a former senior Trump administration official who oversaw intelligence community spending across 18 agencies, said she resigned last month in part because of frustration with a lack of oversight of taxpayer funds — including gold bullion held by the CIA.

Dozens of children re-separated from parents despite landmark settlement

2026-06-04

Eight years after the Trump administration’s family separation policy at the U.S.-Mexico border triggered global outrage, the government has re-separated dozens of children from their families despite a landmark legal settlement meant to keep them together, an Associated Press investigation has found.

Justice Department Eyes Alternative Payout Paths for Trump Allies After Fund Retreat

2026-06-04

The Trump administration has abandoned its $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund' after bipartisan lawmaker opposition, but the Justice Department is signaling it will use existing legal channels—including an 80-year-old damages law—to compensate allies who claim they were politically targeted by the federal government.

School screen bans risk isolating millions of students with disabilities

2026-06-04

As states across the U.S. move to restrict screens in classrooms, disability advocates warn that more than 8 million students who rely on assistive technology are being left out of the conversation. Ninth grader Soraya Martin, who uses speech-to-text and audiobooks because of dyslexia, says the tools transformed her academic life — but a new phone-ban policy at her California high school has left her feeling singled out.

New World screwworm detected in Texas calf, first US livestock case since 1966

2026-06-04

The USDA confirmed Wednesday that a calf in Zavala County, Texas, tested positive for New World screwworm, the first U.S. livestock detection of the flesh-eating parasite since 1966. The finding creates a new challenge for ranchers already contending with the smallest national cattle herd in decades and record-high beef prices.

Trump's name and images spread across Washington

2026-06-04

Giant banners bearing President Donald Trump's likeness have appeared on multiple federal buildings in Washington, and the administration has pursued plans to put his name on currency, monuments, and infrastructure projects — a proliferation of presidential imagery that critics compare to authoritarian display practices.

U.S. sanctions Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, military, Castro kin

2026-06-04

The United States on Thursday leveled sanctions against Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, members of former President Raúl Castro's family, the Cuban military, and other organizations, the latest in a series of escalating measures targeting the country's communist government.

Badenoch warns identity politics tensions risk long-term civil war

2026-06-04

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has warned that rising tensions over identity politics in the United Kingdom could lead to civil war in the long term if left unaddressed, according to an interview recorded for a BBC Radio 4 documentary airing June 7.

SAVE Act fails in Senate as GOP election overhaul stalls

2026-06-04

The SAVE America Act, a sweeping Republican election overhaul that would have required proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote, failed in the Senate on Thursday. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., acknowledged there were not enough votes to pass the measure, which President Donald Trump had made his top legislative priority.

Arizona Supreme Court upholds order returning fake elector case to grand jury

2026-06-04

The Arizona Supreme Court on June 4 denied an appeal by prosecutors seeking to overturn a lower-court order that sends the state's fake elector case back to a grand jury, marking another setback for Attorney General Kris Mayes as she seeks to advance the 2020 election interference prosecution.

Top AI CEOs Urge Congress to Require Synthetic DNA Screening

2026-06-04

WASHINGTON — The chief executives of OpenAI, Anthropic and Google DeepMind have signed a letter urging Congress to require companies that sell synthetic DNA and RNA to screen customer orders, citing the risk that artificial intelligence could lower barriers for bad actors seeking biological weapons. President Donald Trump signed an executive order this week on AI model oversight and cybersecurity, marking a shift from his administration's previous hands-off approach to the technology.

Justice Department investigates 15 medical schools over alleged race discrimination in admissions

2026-06-04

The U.S. Department of Justice’s civil rights division has launched investigations into 15 medical schools over allegations that their admissions processes may illegally use race as a factor, the department announced Thursday. The move follows recent DoJ findings that the medical schools at the University of California, Los Angeles and Yale University had violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act by considering race in admissions.

Bondi testifies Todd Blanche led Epstein files release, won't discuss Trump

2026-06-04

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi told the House Oversight and Reform Committee on May 29 that Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche was "in charge" of the Justice Department's handling and release of Jeffrey Epstein-related records, according to a transcript released Thursday. Bondi also said she was "not certain of the extent" President Trump knew about Epstein's crimes before they became public and declined to discuss any conversations she had with Trump. She called Ghislaine Maxwell a "monster" who should "die in prison" and said she learned of Maxwell's prison transfer through news reports.

ICE detains 48 immigrants as part of South Carolina probe into fake IDs

2026-06-04

Federal and state authorities raided a South Carolina metal casting plant on Wednesday, detaining 48 workers on alleged immigration violations and arresting two company managers on charges of knowingly hiring immigrants in the U.S. illegally, state Attorney General Alan Wilson announced Thursday.

Overseas crypto billionaires give £7m to Reform UK, filings show

2026-06-04

Two British cryptocurrency billionaires based overseas donated a combined £7 million to Reform UK in the first three months of 2026, according to Electoral Commission filings published Thursday, cementing the party’s fundraising lead over Labour and the Conservatives ahead of a planned government cap on donations from non-resident citizens.

Some Republican governors rebrand June with Pride alternatives

2026-06-04

Five Republican governors have issued proclamations renaming June to titles such as Nuclear Family Month, Strong Families Month and Fidelity Month, offering alternatives to the widely recognized LGBTQ+ Pride Month, according to the Associated Press.

EU invests €92 million in ocean monitoring as US plans cuts

2026-06-04

The European Union announced Wednesday a €92 million ($107 million) investment package to expand its ocean monitoring network using underwater drones and satellites, as the Trump administration prepares severe cuts to a similar U.S. program.

Court orders new trials for paramedics in Elijah McClain death

2026-06-04

A Colorado appeals court on Thursday reversed homicide convictions against two paramedics who injected the sedative ketamine into Elijah McClain, a 23-year-old Black man who died after a police encounter in 2019. The court ordered new trials for Jeremy Cooper and Peter Cichuniec, both Aurora Fire Rescue paramedics.

How Voodoo helped bring democracy to Benin

2026-06-04

Democracy came to the cradle of Voodoo religion in 1991, when Benin's military dictator Mathieu Kérékou surprisingly lost an election he had organized. Kérékou had amassed power partly by banning the practice of so-called sorcerers, whose authority he deemed subversive. President Nicéphore Soglo, who defeated him, rehabilitated Voodoo as part of national heritage, setting the stage for a democratic tradition that endures today.

Judge dismisses murder charge against Arkansas sheriff nominee

2026-06-04

A special judge in Arkansas has dismissed a second-degree murder charge against Aaron Spencer, the Republican nominee for sheriff in Lonoke County, after ruling that law enforcement's loss of a dash camera memory card that may have captured the shooting was so egregious it warranted the case's dismissal.

Kennedy Center directs staff to remove Trump's name by June 12

2026-06-04

The Kennedy Center ordered its staff Thursday to remove all references to President Donald Trump from the center by June 12, the first sign the institution is complying with a federal judge's ruling that the board overstepped its authority when it voted to add Trump's name to the performing arts venue.

Louisiana Democrat demands transparency on proposed ICE family detention center

2026-06-04

Sen. Ron Wyden, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, has demanded transparency over a proposed first-of-its-kind family and child detention center in Alexandria, Louisiana, citing conflicts of interest, environmental contamination, and the absence of a public process in the facility's planning.

Labour minister warns party repeating Tory mistakes on leadership changes

2026-06-04

Technology Secretary Peter Kyle warned Thursday that Labour is repeating the Conservatives' pattern of turning to leadership changes as a default response to political problems, as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer continues to resist calls from Labour MPs to step down following poor election results.

Economists offer competing visions to reduce U.S. income inequality

2026-06-04

U.S. income inequality has widened significantly over the past five decades, with households at the 90th percentile earning 12.6 times as much as those at the 10th percentile in 2024, up from 8.7 times in 1976, according to Census Bureau data cited by the Wall Street Journal. In an article published June 4 as part of its 'USA250' series, five economists offered competing visions for addressing the divide as artificial intelligence reshapes the economy.

Trump Invokes Defense Production Act to Direct $700M to Coal-Fired Power Plants

2026-06-04

President Trump will use the Defense Production Act, a Cold War-era statute that grants sweeping wartime powers to accelerate domestic industrial output, to provide $700 million in grants to more than a dozen coal-fired power plants across the United States, according to a White House announcement. Environmental groups condemned the move, calling it a taxpayer-funded handout to an industry that researchers estimate contributed to hundreds of thousands of premature deaths over two decades.

Algorithms can amplify tribal hatred within days, study finds

2026-06-04

A study published in Science in November 2025 found that reducing exposure to posts expressing antidemocratic attitudes and partisan animosity on X improved users' feelings toward the opposing party by about two points on a 100-point scale within ten days, suggesting that algorithmic feeds can compress years of political hardening into a short period.

Ohio State agrees to $100M settlement with 279 Strauss abuse victims

2026-06-04

The Ohio State University has agreed to pay $100 million to 279 former students who alleged campus doctor Richard Strauss sexually abused them, the university announced Wednesday. The settlement covers claimants from a period spanning 1978 to 1998, when Strauss worked at the campus health center and athletic department.

Trump alleges without evidence Democrats are 'cheating' in California primaries

2026-06-04

Donald Trump alleged without evidence that Democrats are cheating in California's primary elections, claiming in a late-night social media post that the U.S. attorney's office in Los Angeles was investigating. The president's unfounded remarks are likely to further alarm election observers who have warned that prolonged counting invites misinformation.

Paraguay emerges as investment alternative amid global trade uncertainty

2026-06-04

Paraguay is positioning itself as a stable investment destination as companies and investors restructure their supply chains amid mounting global uncertainty, according to analysis published June 4 by United Press International. Paraguayan economist Federico Sosa argues that the country's clean energy, fiscal discipline, and regional connectivity are drawing attention from investors seeking diversification away from Asian exposure.

Consumer rage rises as Americans face corporate frustrations, survey finds

2026-06-04

Nearly 80% of Americans reported a problem with a service or product in 2025, and about two-thirds of those experienced 'rage' about it, according to the National Consumer Rage survey published Thursday by Customer Care Measurement & Consulting and Arizona State University's WP Carey School of Business.

US, Canada, Mexico co-host World Cup amid trade rifts and security fears

2026-06-04

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off this week across 16 host cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament has been co-hosted by three nations. The unprecedented arrangement comes after months of fractious relations among the three neighbors over tariffs, immigration enforcement, and political rhetoric, raising questions about whether the monthlong event will ease tensions or deepen them.

Tech-backed candidates advance in California primary despite Mahan loss

2026-06-04

Silicon Valley's substantial investment in California's primary election yielded mixed results Tuesday, as tech-backed gubernatorial candidate Matt Mahan conceded after securing roughly 4% of the vote, while industry-supported candidates for other offices advanced toward the November general election.

U.S. cities grapple with return of statues removed after 2020 protests

2026-06-04

A wave of lawsuits and legislative efforts across the U.S. is pushing to restore statues of Confederate generals, Christopher Columbus, and other historical figures that were removed from public spaces during the 2020 protests against police violence and racism. The efforts, which have gained momentum ahead of the nation's 250th anniversary next month, are dividing communities over whether the monuments represent a reclaimed heritage or a celebration of oppression.

GOP-Led House Votes to Restrict Trump's Iran War Powers

2026-06-03

The GOP-led House voted Wednesday to restrict President Trump's ability to continue military operations against Iran without congressional approval, a direct rebuke to the White House that signals eroding Republican support for a war now in its fourth month. The resolution passed 215-208, with four Republicans joining Democrats.

Lula accuses Bolsonaro sons of treason over U.S. tariff threat

2026-06-03

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Wednesday accused the sons of former President Jair Bolsonaro of acting as “traitors to the nation” by lobbying the United States to impose a 25% tariff on Brazilian goods and take action against Brazil’s PIX instant payment system.

Two Dan Sullivans appear on Alaska Senate primary ballot

2026-06-03

Republican U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan faces a field of 15 competitors in Alaska's primary election for his Senate seat — including another candidate named Dan Sullivan. The incumbent senator accused Democrats and his chief rival, former Democratic U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola, of orchestrating the name duplication to confuse voters, while Peltola's campaign and the Alaska Democratic Party denied any involvement.

Supreme Court Allows Alabama to Use Map Eliminating Majority-Black District

2026-06-03

The US Supreme Court issued a 6-3 emergency ruling on Tuesday allowing Alabama to implement a congressional map that removes one of the state's two majority-Black districts. The conservative majority overturned a lower court order that had blocked the map over findings of discriminatory intent, marking the latest judicial development following the Court's late April decision in *Louisiana v. Callais* that weakened voting rights protections.

Turek wins Iowa Democratic Senate primary, will face Hinson in November

2026-06-03

Iowa state Rep. Josh Turek won the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by retiring Republican Sen. Joni Ernst on Tuesday, defeating state Sen. Zach Wahls in a contentious primary that became a proxy battle over the party's direction. Turek will face Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson, who earned former President Donald Trump's endorsement, in the November general election in a race Democrats see as one of their best pickup opportunities in a state the GOP has dominated for a decade.

Democrats back Platner for Maine Senate despite sexting disclosure

2026-06-03

Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner of Maine faced a new controversy Tuesday over sexually explicit texts with women outside his marriage, but top party leaders including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Bernie Sanders reaffirmed their support ahead of the June 9 primary.

Karen Bass advances to LA mayoral runoff after falling short of majority

2026-06-03

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has advanced to the November general election after leading Tuesday's primary field, but fell short of the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff. Bass will face either city council member Nithya Raman or former reality TV star Spencer Pratt in a contest shaped by voter frustration over homelessness and the fallout from the January 2025 wildfires.

White House aliens.gov website fuses X-Files style with immigration enforcement

2026-06-03

The White House on Wednesday launched aliens.gov, a website that repurposes the visual language of "The X-Files" to frame immigration enforcement as a campaign against extraterrestrial "invaders," using the term "aliens" — a legal designation for noncitizens — across a page designed to mimic declassified government disclosures. The site features an animated title sequence with luminous green text against a dark starry background and declares that "THEY WALK AMONG US" before pivoting to say the threat is not extraterrestrials but immigrants in the country without authorization.

Fringe rancher group now advising Trump's agriculture team

2026-06-03

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has aligned with R-Calf, a smaller rancher group long considered fringe by the beef industry, on policies to break up major meatpacking companies, mandate country-of-origin labels, and loosen federal regulations on ranchers, marking a shift in Washington from the powerful agriculture lobby toward a more populist, anti-corporate stance in the cattle sector.

America prepares for 250th birthday celebrations amid politicization concerns

2026-06-03

The United States is preparing for its 250th birthday on July 4 with a 16-day state fair on the National Mall, a UFC championship fight on the White House lawn, and a fireworks display expected to break the world record, but the celebrations have become entangled in political controversy as two rival planning organizations — the congressionally-established America250 and the Trump-created Freedom250 — offer competing visions for the event.

Trump's loyalist intelligence pick threatens FISA surveillance renewal

2026-06-03

President Donald Trump has appointed Bill Pulte, a close political ally with no intelligence experience, as acting director of national intelligence, a move that senior Democrats say could collapse bipartisan efforts to renew a key surveillance program before its June 12 expiration.

EU proposes tech sovereignty package to cut US reliance

2026-06-03

The European Commission on Wednesday proposed a wide-ranging technology sovereignty package aimed at reducing the European Union's dependence on non-EU tech companies, with measures targeting semiconductors, cloud services, data centers and artificial intelligence. The proposals, which require approval from the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union, come as trade and geopolitical tensions between the EU and the Trump administration have intensified.

UK minister: Police anti-racism document 'gives wrong impression'

2026-06-03

Policing Minister Sarah Jones said a National Police Chiefs' Council anti-racism commitment document "gives the wrong impression" as the UK government faces renewed scrutiny over police treatment of Black victims in the wake of the murder of 18-year-old Henry Nowak in Southampton.

Meliá to shutter 15 hotels in Cuba after new U.S. sanctions

2026-06-03

Spanish hotel chain Meliá will cease operations at 15 of the 34 hotels it manages in Cuba, citing corporate responsibility and external factors that have affected the operation, legality and security of the establishments, according to Cuban state website Cubadebate. The decision, announced May 26, deals a fresh blow to the island's tourism sector weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order expanding sanctions.

Former MI6 chief Sir Alex Younger dies at 62

2026-06-03

Sir Alex Younger, the former head of MI6, has died aged 62 after being treated for cancer, his family said. Younger led the Secret Intelligence Service from 2014 to 2020, a career that spanned three decades in British intelligence.

Mullin tells Congress ICE training will return to 'regular standards'

2026-06-03

DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin told the House Homeland Security Committee on Wednesday that Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers will soon have to complete more than 500 hours of training, restoring the program's original length after it was cut by nearly half during a 2025 hiring push.

Senate Republicans restart debate on $72B immigration enforcement bill

2026-06-03

Senate Republicans voted Tuesday to proceed with debate on a $72 billion reconciliation package to fund immigration enforcement agencies through fiscal year 2029, resuming the effort after a delay sparked by concerns over a Trump administration proposal to compensate individuals who allege being targeted by the federal government.

Saban backs bipartisan college sports bill as SEC, Big Ten object

2026-06-03

Former Alabama football coach Nick Saban testified Wednesday before the Senate Commerce Committee in support of a bipartisan bill that would regulate payments to college athletes, limit player transfers, and restrict coaches from leaving programs during the season. The legislation faces opposition from the Southeastern Conference and the Big Ten.

OpenAI CEO Altman meets Trump officials, lawmakers on AI rules

2026-06-03

OpenAI Chief Executive Sam Altman traveled to Washington on Wednesday for meetings with Trump administration officials and congressional leaders, a day after President Donald Trump signed an executive order asking artificial intelligence companies to voluntarily submit their models for government testing before release.

Senators debate push to strip citizenship from naturalized Americans

2026-06-03

The Justice Department has opened 34 denaturalization cases and revoked the citizenship of 11 naturalized Americans since January, a significant increase from prior practice that senators debated during a Wednesday hearing. Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution argued that denaturalizing naturalized citizens who committed fraud has been too difficult, while Democrats called the effort unconstitutional and said it reflects President Donald Trump’s broader anti-immigrant agenda.

Trump 'a little bit perturbed' by Israel's fight with Hezbollah

2026-06-03

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that even though he works well with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, he was 'a little bit perturbed' by Israel's frequent fighting with Lebanon, and acknowledged calling Netanyahu '[expletive] crazy' during a Monday phone call.

Columbia Jewish faculty file claims against $21m antisemitism fund they say targets dissent

2026-06-03

Several Jewish faculty members at Columbia University filed Equal Employment Opportunity Commission claims this week arguing that a $21 million antisemitism settlement fund, created as part of the university's deal with the Trump administration, is being used to suppress pro-Palestinian speech rather than protect Jewish employees from genuine antisemitism.

Pope Leo XIV warns AI threatens democracy in landmark encyclical

2026-06-03

Pope Leo XIV released his first encyclical on May 25, warning that unregulated artificial intelligence could weaken democracy by eroding the distinction between fact and fiction. The document, titled 'Magnifica Humanity: On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence,' also cautions against a 'technocratic paradigm' that reduces human beings to tools of efficiency, according to the text.

Trump appointee leading $205bn agency had personal ties to Epstein, emails show

2026-06-03

Ben Black, the Senate-confirmed head of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), had years of personal and business interactions with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to emails released by the Department of Justice. A review of more than 5,000 records from Epstein's private correspondence shows Black invested in a company alongside Epstein in 2011 and that the two men had a relationship for several years afterward, including Epstein telling a friend he attended Black's 30th birthday party.

Vermont school district refuses to 'bend the knee' to Trump, ICE

2026-06-03

In the small, diverse community of Winooski, Vermont, a school district of about 800 students has refused to comply with Trump administration policies on immigration enforcement and diversity programs — a stand that drew death threats, inspired a statewide law, and left its superintendent facing detention by federal agents.

Steve Hilton expresses optimism as California primary remains undecided

2026-06-03

Republican Steve Hilton on Tuesday expressed optimism that he will advance to the general election in California's governor race, even as vote counting continued and the Associated Press had not called the winner of the primary. Hilton, who served as an adviser to former British Prime Minister David Cameron and later as a Fox News host, is seeking to become the state's first Republican governor in more than 15 years.

Colorado governor vetoes expansive surveillance pricing ban

2026-06-03

Colorado Governor Jared Polis on Tuesday vetoed a bill that would have banned companies from using surveillance pricing to set wages and consumer prices, rejecting what would have been the strongest such measure in the nation.

State lawmakers move to ban personalized pricing as consumer-data tools expand

2026-06-03

More than 50 bills introduced across half of U.S. states in 2026 seek to restrict retailers from using personal data to set individualized prices, a practice researchers warn could let companies charge more during emergencies or to consumers with urgent needs. Maryland in April became the first state to ban food retailers from using personal data to set higher prices, while New York and California are pursuing similar restrictions.

Trump says Blanche will become permanent attorney general

2026-06-03

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he expects acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to become his permanent choice for the nation's top law enforcement officer, according to an interview broadcast on Pod Force One.

Jilly, I had no choice: Jill Biden recounts pressure on Joe Biden to exit 2024 race

2026-06-03

Jill Biden recalled the intense pressure that led Joe Biden to drop out of the 2024 presidential race, saying he told her "Jilly, I had no choice," during a Tuesday book event in New York City for her new memoir *View from the East Wing*. She described the public calls from Democratic allies as "really hurtful" and said both she and Joe were "devastated" by the response from party members they had considered close friends.

Washington archbishop removes exorcist over UFO-demons comments

2026-06-03

Cardinal Robert McElroy, the Catholic archbishop of Washington, D.C., on Wednesday removed a well-known priest from his role as an exorcist of the archdiocese after the priest publicly suggested that UFO sightings were the work of demons.

Republican's primary showing threatens California Democrats' redistricting goal

2026-06-03

Michael Stansfield, a 50-year-old tech support worker and former seminary student, took out a home equity loan to pay the $17,000 filing fee to run as a Republican in a Sacramento-area congressional district. On Wednesday, the day after California's primary, Stansfield was holding onto second place — enough to potentially lock Democrats out of the November general election in a race the party had made a centerpiece of its national redistricting strategy.

Gallup: U.S. support for same-sex marriage, LGBTQ acceptance falls from recent highs

2026-06-03

Support for same-sex marriage among U.S. adults has dropped to 65%, down from 71% in 2022-2023, according to Gallup’s annual Values and Beliefs survey released Wednesday. The percentage of Americans who view gay and lesbian relations as morally acceptable fell to 62%, the lowest level since 2016, after peaking at 71% in 2022.

Rutgers grad speaker cancellation draws free speech warnings

2026-06-03

A Rutgers University graduation speaker was disinvited for pro-Palestinian social media posts, as campus free speech advocates warned that the move reflects a broader trend of universities canceling commencement speakers over controversial opinions during the 2026 graduation season.

Hegseth removes all women, some Black officers from Navy promotion list

2026-06-03

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stripped nine Navy officers — including all three women and two of four Black service members — from a promotion list last month, according to a person familiar with the matter, resulting in an all-male, overwhelmingly white slate of 22 nominees for promotion to one-star admiral. Hegseth did not explain the removals to the Navy, and a service official said the service had been "very confident" with the original list.

Monterey Park votes to permanently ban data centers, a US first

2026-06-03

Voters in Monterey Park, California, on Tuesday approved a ballot measure that permanently bans data centers in the city, making it the first US municipality to enact such a ban through a direct vote. With 86.3% of more than 7,000 votes counted in favor, the measure passed by a wide margin, according to city councilmember Jose Sanchez.

British MP sues Musk's xAI over deepfake bikini images created by Grok

2026-06-03

Labour MP Jess Asato has filed a lawsuit at the High Court in London against Elon Musk's artificial intelligence company xAI, alleging that its Grok chatbot was designed without safeguards that allowed users to create fake sexualised images of her. The case, filed on June 3, seeks damages and aims to establish legal precedent that AI companies are liable for design flaws in their systems.

Trump signs order to make it easier to fire 8,000 senior federal workers

2026-06-03

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday stripping civil service job protections from approximately 8,000 senior federal workers earning up to nearly $200,000 annually, the White House and Office of Personnel Management said. The order classifies the employees as "influencing" government policy, making them at-will workers subject to removal without cause.

Epstein survivors say UK government ignored their pleas

2026-06-03

Former victims minister Alex Davies-Jones told the House of Commons on Wednesday that survivors of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein have been treated as a “footnote” in the row over Lord Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to the United States. Davies-Jones, who resigned as a justice minister in May, read a statement on behalf of U.S. survivor Lisa Phillips, who said requests to meet Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer were “ignored.” A senior cabinet minister apologized for treating Mandelson differently because of his power and influence.

Trump turns federal agencies into arm of presidency, lobbying jumps 70%

2026-06-03

President Trump is personally intervening in regulatory decisions that once were the purview of independent agencies, according to a Wall Street Journal investigation, prompting a 70% surge in White House lobbying disclosures in 2025 as companies and advocates bypass career staff to seek presidential favor.

Judge orders deportation of North Carolina teen killed in 2024 shooting

2026-06-03

An immigration judge in Charlotte, North Carolina, on May 21 ordered the deportation of a 19-year-old Honduran man who was fatally shot in November 2024, ruling that he failed to appear for his hearing. The judge rejected documentation of the teen's death, including police records, according to his attorney.

CBS fires Scott Pelley from 60 Minutes in clash over editorial direction

2026-06-03

CBS fired veteran 60 Minutes correspondent Scott Pelley on Tuesday night after he challenged new leadership at the program, accusing editor-in-chief Bari Weiss and executive producer Nick Bilton of attempting to inject political bias into stories. The dismissal is part of a broader shake-up at CBS News under new owners David and Larry Ellison, who have made concessions to the Trump administration.

Badenoch accuses Starmer of giving up on welfare reform at PMQs

2026-06-03

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer on Wednesday of abandoning welfare reform, pointing to the absence of a welfare bill from the government's legislative agenda and citing leaked private messages from a senior minister that she said revealed Labour's internal resistance to cutting benefits.

Police block press from Delaney Hall protests, arrest three journalists

2026-06-03

New Jersey state police and Newark police blocked journalists from covering demonstrations near the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility last week, detaining at least three news workers and denying press credentials to independent livestreamers, according to a Guardian opinion piece by Adam Rose, deputy director of advocacy at the Freedom of the Press Foundation. The actions came amid a hunger strike by ICE detainees and ongoing protests that have drawn hundreds to the facility.

Democrats nominate army doctor, Paralympian in primary wave

2026-06-03

Democrats across several states selected nominees on Tuesday in primaries that will shape the battle for control of Congress and governor’s mansions in November. The winners included a navy veteran in New Jersey, a Paralympic gold medalist in Iowa, an army veteran and plastic surgeon who served in Gaza, and a prolific California state senator.

Trump says Vance-Rubio ticket for 2028 would be 'unbeatable'

2026-06-03

Former President Donald Trump said Wednesday that a 2028 Republican presidential ticket pairing Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio would be "unbeatable." Trump made the remark during an interview with the "Pod Force One" podcast, adding fresh fuel to ongoing speculation about the 2028 GOP primary race.

UK bill would fine airlines that fail disabled passengers

2026-06-03

A UK parliamentary bill that would impose fines on airlines for damaging or losing wheelchairs and failing disabled passengers passed its second reading in the House of Lords on Tuesday, with Paralympic champion Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson calling it a "significant opportunity" to transform air travel for disabled people.

Scottish secretary failed to declare meeting with Mandelson's lobbying firm

2026-06-03

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander met with Peter Mandelson's lobbying firm Global Counsel within weeks of becoming a minister in July 2024 but did not publicly declare the meeting for about 20 months, newly released government documents show. The meeting was only added to transparency logs in March 2025 after MPs ordered the publication of Mandelson's contacts with ministers.

Peter Murrell embezzled more than £400,000 from the SNP, prosecutors say

2026-06-03

Prosecutors have detailed how Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, embezzled more than £400,000 over many years using false data entries, party credit cards, and direct transfers, according to a Crown narrative released Wednesday. Murrell, 61, faces sentencing on June 23 and is also expected to face legal action under proceeds of crime legislation to recover the money.

Pride groups plan for future without biggest corporate sponsors

2026-06-02

Pride organizations across the U.S. are struggling to secure enough corporate sponsorships to fund their annual June events after a wave of big-name brands pulled back, with large groups cutting budgets and others facing hundreds of thousands of dollars in shortfalls. Sponsors commonly cite economic instability and the Trump administration’s moves against diversity, equity and inclusion programs, with government contractors particularly concerned about potential consequences.

Bodycam footage of fatal UK stabbing fuels claims of unequal policing

2026-06-02

Bodycam footage obtained by BBC News shows police handcuffing an 18-year-old stabbed man instead of rendering aid, after his murderer falsely told officers the victim had racially abused him. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the footage as 'harrowing' and condemned political figures who, he said, were using the case 'to create division.' The incident has reignited accusations of 'two-tier policing' in Britain, with Conservative and Reform UK leaders claiming officers treat people differently based on race.

Canada's economy contracted 0.1% in Q1 as Carney ties weakness to policy restructuring

2026-06-02

Canada's economy contracted at a 0.1% annualized rate in the first quarter of 2026, a second straight quarterly decline that badly missed expectations. Prime Minister Mark Carney attributed the weakness to deliberate policy decisions aimed at restructuring the economy to reduce dependence on U.S. trade. The reading triggered recession talk among traders, though most economists said the label is premature.

Canada formally requests 16-year renewal of North American free trade pact

2026-06-02

Canada has formally requested a renewal of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), proposing a 16-year extension of the North American free trade pact as the July 1 deadline to renegotiate the deal approaches. Canada-US Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc submitted the renewal notice Tuesday while in Washington for talks with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

U.S. proposes 25% tariffs on Brazil over trade, digital practices

2026-06-02

The Trump administration on Monday proposed a 25% tariff on a range of Brazilian imports, citing unfair trade practices involving digital services, intellectual property, and environmental enforcement. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the action follows a Section 301 investigation launched at President Donald Trump's direction and comes amid ongoing talks between Trump and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

US sanctions Iran's largest digital asset exchange Nobitex

2026-06-02

The United States on Tuesday sanctioned Iran's largest digital asset platform, Nobitex, along with three other exchanges, the Treasury Department announced, accusing the platforms of processing more than half of Iran's digital asset revenue and supporting a broad sanctions evasion network.

Hegseth blocked nine Air Force colonel promotions, delayed dozens more

2026-06-02

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth blocked the appointment of nine Air Force colonels to one-star general and delayed the promotion of at least two dozen more senior officers, according to current and former U.S. officials. The moves have raised concerns in the Pentagon and on Capitol Hill that Hegseth is targeting officers based on race, gender, or perceived loyalty, officials said.

Paxton, Platner converge on Washington as Senate control hangs in balance

2026-06-02

U.S. Senate candidates Ken Paxton, a Texas Republican, and Graham Platner, a Maine Democrat, made parallel pilgrimages to the nation's capital on Tuesday to rally party support, each facing skepticism from within their own coalitions about whether their campaigns could cost their parties winnable races in the November midterms. Control of the Senate for the final two years of President Donald Trump's second term is at stake.

Supreme Court reinstates Republican-favored Alabama congressional districts

2026-06-02

The Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned a lower court ruling and cleared the way for Alabama to use a congressional map that a three-judge panel had found "tainted by intentional race-based discrimination," a decision that will likely cost a Democratic incumbent his seat in the 2026 midterm elections.

Pentagon appoints convicted Jan. 6 rioter to counter-terrorism role

2026-06-02

The Pentagon has appointed Elias Irizarry, a man convicted for his role in the Jan. 6, 2021 breach of the U.S. Capitol, to a sensitive counter-terrorism position within the Department of Defense's special operations office, according to reports from the Washington Post and The Guardian.

Archipelago International leaves Cuba as U.S. sanctions deadline nears

2026-06-02

Asian hotel chain Archipelago International has ended its operations in Cuba under the Aston brand, becoming the third international hospitality operator to exit the island in less than a week ahead of a Friday deadline for foreign companies to end business dealings with GAESA, the military-run conglomerate that controls much of Cuba's tourism sector.

Marco Rubio testifies before Senate, House on budget, foreign policy

2026-06-02

Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified before Congress on Tuesday in his first public appearance since the U.S. war with Iran began, requesting more than $35 billion for the State Department's 2027 budget and fielding questions on peace negotiations with Iran and President Donald Trump's foreign policy moves.

Trump swore at Netanyahu over threat to resume Beirut bombing, report says

2026-06-02

President Donald Trump swore repeatedly at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a phone call Monday after Netanyahu threatened to resume bombing Beirut's southern suburbs, according to a report from Axios citing a US official. Iran announced Tuesday it would suspend peace talks with the United States over Israel's renewed campaign in southern Lebanon.

Tennessee Republicans eliminate Memphis's lone Black-majority congressional district

2026-06-02

Tennessee Republicans have eliminated the state's only Democratic, Black-majority congressional district, splitting Memphis's Black voters across three Republican-leaning seats in a redistricting that followed the U.S. Supreme Court's weakening of key Voting Rights Act protections. All nine of Tennessee's congressional districts now lean Republican under the new maps approved by the Republican-controlled General Assembly in Nashville.

Federal appeals court blocks Trump from expelling transgender troops

2026-06-02

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia ruled 2-1 on Monday to block the Trump administration from discharging transgender servicemembers who challenged the president’s ban, while allowing the government to deny future enrollment to transgender Americans.

Ilhan Omar says Trump pardons conflict with his anti-fraud posture

2026-06-02

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) responded to President Donald Trump calling her "crooked as hell" by pointing to his record of pardoning convicted fraudsters, including those tied to some of the largest health care and financial fraud schemes in U.S. history, and to his administration's creation of a $1.8 billion fund for individuals pardoned for their roles in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Trump administration threatens Oman with sanctions over Iran ties

2026-06-02

The Trump administration has threatened Oman with sanctions and military action, pressing the historically neutral sultanate to cut diplomatic ties with Iran during the ongoing U.S.-Iran war. Washington cited an intelligence assessment concluding that Muscat planned to join Iran in tolling vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, an allegation Oman has repeatedly denied.

White House correspondents’ dinner rescheduled for July 24 after April shooting

2026-06-02

The White House Correspondents’ Association has rescheduled its annual dinner for July 24, 2026, nearly seven weeks after a shooting during the April 25 gala forced its cancellation, WHCA President Weijia Jiang announced Tuesday. President Donald Trump, who was swiftly evacuated from the original event, has pledged to attend and speak at the rescheduled dinner.

Democrats push back on Trump rule allowing crypto in 401(k) plans

2026-06-02

A group of Democratic lawmakers, including Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren and Representative Bobby Scott, are opposing a Trump administration proposal that would allow 401(k) retirement plans to invest in cryptocurrency, private credit, and private equity, arguing the change would expose American workers' savings to excessive risk.

California governor primary exposes deep Democratic divide

2026-06-02

California voters went to the polls Tuesday in a Democratic gubernatorial primary that has laid bare a sharp ideological divide within the party, with billionaire activist Tom Steyer challenging former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra for the right to lead the world's fourth-largest economy. The primary, which advances the top two vote-getters to November, has drawn national attention as outside groups have spent nearly $80 million on advertising.

Trump's $1.78 billion anti-weaponization fund faces mounting legal and political opposition

2026-06-02

The Trump administration's $1.776 billion fund to compensate people it says were victims of political "lawfare" is facing mounting legal and political challenges, with a federal judge temporarily blocking its operation and critics from both parties denouncing it as a corrupt slush fund that could reward participants in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack.

Pentagon bars journalists from press office, designating it classified space

2026-06-02

The Pentagon has redesignated its press office as a classified facility, barring credentialed journalists from entering the space where they have long worked alongside defense department officials. The decision, first reported by the Washington Post and confirmed by acting defense department press secretary Jose Valdez on social media, marks the most recent step in a months-long campaign to limit press access to the military's headquarters.

Louisiana, Kentucky GOP primaries test Trump's power to shape 2026 field

2026-06-02

Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky lost primary challenges to Trump-backed opponents last month in contests that The Wall Street Journal described as defining tests of the president's influence over the next generation of Republican candidates.

NYC Mayor Mamdani's Knicks fandom is a rare cross-party bright spot

2026-06-02

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has emerged as the Knicks' cheerleader-in-chief as the team marches toward the NBA Finals, finding one of the few sources of universal approval during a tenure that has drawn sharp criticism from the business community and some Jewish New Yorkers. Mamdani signed an executive order Wednesday effectively repealing bedtime for city children so they can stay up late for the first Finals game, and his administration is organizing watch parties across the five boroughs.

I gave birth in the street: conflict makes childbirth dangerous in parts of Africa

2026-06-02

A woman in a refugee camp in the Central African Republic gave birth on the roadside, alone and without medical care, after conflict and poverty prevented her from reaching a health facility. Her story is part of a broader crisis in sub-Saharan Africa, where the region accounts for 70% of maternal deaths worldwide.

Elder abuse agencies in Pennsylvania reject cases experts say merit investigation

2026-06-02

Pennsylvania's elder abuse hotline received a call on March 31 about a 65-year-old Allegheny County woman living alone with a collapsed roof, exposed belongings, and electrical hazards, a situation the caller described as 'life-threatening.' Records obtained by Spotlight PA show that while the hotline intake worker agreed the case warranted immediate investigation, the state's system for protecting vulnerable older adults has repeatedly rejected similar cases that experts say should have been investigated.

California slow vote counting could delay primary results for weeks

2026-06-02

California's notoriously slow vote-counting system could delay results from Tuesday's primary elections for days or weeks in the tightest races, as elections offices face a deluge of last-minute absentee ballots. Voting experts say the lag, which past cycles have left the country waiting to learn which party controls the House of Representatives, creates a political vulnerability that elected officials from both parties are bracing for.

Instagram AI chatbot tricked into handing hackers access to accounts

2026-06-02

Hackers tricked Instagram's AI-powered customer support tool into changing email addresses and passwords on other users' accounts, Meta confirmed Tuesday, in a security incident that coincided with the reported takeover of former President Barack Obama's verified account.

King Charles tells oldest Post Office scandal victim it was 'dreadful'

2026-06-02

Betty Brown, the oldest surviving victim of the Post Office Horizon IT scandal, said King Charles III told her during a ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday that the scandal was a "dreadful thing" that "should never have happened." The 93-year-old former sub-postmaster was receiving her OBE for services to justice.

Muted enthusiasm, high prices greet World Cup in 16 host cities

2026-06-02

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, fans across the 16 host cities in the United States, Mexico and Canada express a mix of excitement and deep reservations over ticket prices, political tensions and logistics concerns, according to a series of dispatches published June 2 by The Guardian. The tournament, which kicks off June 11, will be the first co-hosted by three nations and features a record 104 matches.

NY Democrats condemn far-right Israeli minister's parade presence

2026-06-02

Several prominent New York Democrats who marched in Sunday's Israel Day parade have condemned the attendance of Bezalel Smotrich, Israel's far-right finance minister, saying they were unaware he would be present and denouncing his extremist views.

Justice Department investigates George Santos for insider trading on Kalshi

2026-06-02

Former Republican congressman George Santos, who served four months in federal prison before President Trump commuted his sentence, is under investigation by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and the Justice Department for insider trading on the prediction market site Kalshi, according to three people with direct knowledge of his trades who spoke to NPR. Santos allegedly misled the public about his plans to attend President Trump's State of the Union address and then bet on his own absence, turning a profit in the tens of thousands of dollars.

Starmer uses disappearing WhatsApp messages, No 10 confirms

2026-06-02

Downing Street has confirmed that UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer uses an auto-delete function on his phone, meaning his WhatsApp messages with and about Lord Peter Mandelson, the UK’s ambassador to the US, may have been lost. The confirmation came as a large tranche of documents related to Mandelson’s appointment was disclosed, containing only a few texts from Starmer himself.

Reform UK by-election candidate admits 'crass' past online comments

2026-06-02

Reform UK's candidate in the Makerfield by-election, Robert Kenyon, has acknowledged making "crass" comments online in the past, including a response to a sexually graphic post about TV presenter Carol Vorderman)Skip that emerged from scrutiny of his social media history.

Iowa, California, Montana hold primary elections Tuesday

2026-06-02

Voters in six states, including Iowa, California and Montana, went to the polls Tuesday for primary elections that will set the stage for November’s midterm contests. Democrats aim to flip Iowa’s governor’s office and a Senate seat while Republicans look to hold open seats in several competitive races.

Doctors mount midterm challenge to Trump health policies

2026-06-02

A wave of Democratic doctors, scientists and public health professionals are running for office in the 2026 midterm elections, citing the Trump administration's health policies — including deep cuts to public health funding and a surge in vaccine misinformation — as a direct threat to public health, according to interviews with more than a dozen candidates.

Mandelson files show 8-10 week wait for Trump's red box, column says

2026-06-02

The latest tranche of released Mandelson files includes an email exchange detailing a request from then-US President-elect Donald Trump for a replica ministerial red box during his state visit, Guardian columnist Marina Hyde reported June 2. Hyde wrote that the manufacturer quoted a lead time of eight to ten weeks — a detail she characterized as emblematic of Britain's broader capacity to deliver on infrastructure and growth.

On This Day, June 2: Italy voted to become a republic in 1946

2026-06-02

On June 2, 1946, Italian voters chose to replace the monarchy with a republic in a national referendum, ending the House of Savoy's rule. The date also marks the Confederate surrender of the Civil War in 1865, the signing of the Indian Citizenship Act in 1924, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, and numerous other historical milestones including the election of Mexico's first female president in 2024.

EU reaches deal to ramp up deportations, build detention centers abroad

2026-06-02

The European Union has agreed to a major overhaul of its migration policy that would increase deportations of people without legal status and allow member nations to build detention centers in countries outside the bloc, in a deal rights groups are comparing to Trump-era U.S. immigration enforcement.

Illinois lawmakers send bill barring private equity control of law firms to Pritzker

2026-06-01

The Illinois state Senate passed House Bill 5487 on Saturday, sending legislation to Gov. JB Pritzker that would strengthen state prohibitions on nonlawyers managing law firms. The measure targets corporate structures that critics say allow private-equity investors to exercise de facto control over legal practices without technically owning them.

California voters head to polls in high-stakes governor primary

2026-06-01

California voters cast ballots Tuesday in a nonpartisan primary to select two finalists for the state’s governorship, a contest that will determine the leadership of the nation’s most populous state set to replace outgoing Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom.

WHO chief visits Ebola epicenter in eastern Congo as cases surge past 900

2026-06-01

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Saturday visited the eastern Congolese city of Bunia, the epicenter of a rare Ebola outbreak that has accelerated beyond the capacity of health responders, as the number of suspected cases surpassed 900 and the virus spread into neighboring Uganda.

Wise Shares Drop After Report of Belgian Money-Laundering Probe

2026-06-01

Wise Group shares fell to a near 18-month low after a report said Belgian prosecutors are investigating the cross-border payments company for potential money laundering involving €500 million in transactions. Shares dropped 9.2% in European trading on June 1, and fell more than 10% premarket in New York.

China tightens outbound investment rules amid U.S.-China tech rivalry

2026-06-01

China's State Council announced new rules Monday that prohibit unauthorized exports or use of state-restricted goods, technology, services and data, tightening Beijing's scrutiny of outbound capital flows amid escalating technology competition with the United States. The rules, approved in April and set to take effect in July, also ban indirect transfers of restricted technology through cross-border personnel deployments, training programs or technical guidance.

Trump administration imposes 80-hour monthly work requirement for Medicaid

2026-06-01

The Trump administration on Monday issued a new rule requiring most Medicaid enrollees ages 19 through 64 to work, participate in job training, or perform community service for at least 80 hours per month to maintain their health coverage, implementing a provision of the president's tax and spending law signed in July. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services published the interim final rule as an "emergency" measure, giving states until Jan. 1 to comply. Patient advocacy groups and Democrats immediately condemned the policy.

Texas Senate general election pits Talarico against Paxton in November

2026-06-01

Texas voters will choose in November between Democratic state representative James Talarico, a progressive former seminarian with a $27 million campaign war chest, and Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Trump-aligned incumbent who has faced corruption charges and impeachment proceedings.

Louisiana Supreme Court upholds eliminating exoneree's elected clerk post

2026-06-01

The Louisiana Supreme Court voted 4-3 on Monday to approve the elimination of the Orleans Parish clerk of criminal court office, ending a legal path for Calvin Duncan, a New Orleans exoneree who won a landmark election to the post. The ruling leaves Duncan without a route to assume the role and rejects a New Orleans City Council request to hold a special election for the position.

Justice Department moves to pause $1.776 billion anti-weaponization fund ahead of court hearing

2026-06-01

The Department of Justice said on June 1 that it will comply with a federal judge's order to temporarily halt work on the Trump administration's anti-weaponization fund, pausing disbursements ahead of a scheduled mid-June court hearing. The nearly $1.8 billion initiative has drawn strong opposition from members of Congress, and its continued operations threatened to derail the president's push to secure separate funding for immigration enforcement measures.

Huntington Beach could gain gay Democratic congressman after redistricting

2026-06-01

Robert Garcia, a two-term Democratic congressman and the first gay immigrant sworn into Congress, is poised to represent Huntington Beach after California voters approved a redistricting measure that redrew the state's congressional maps and placed the conservative Orange County city into his district.

UK government pledges delayed defence spending plan before July Nato summit

2026-06-01

Defence Secretary John Healey told Parliament on Monday that Prime Minister Keir Starmer remains determined to publish the UK's long-overdue Defence Investment Plan before the July Nato summit, a pledge that comes amid escalating warnings from industry and labour groups about the economic and security costs of further delays.

International court rules UK owes Rwanda nothing over collapsed asylum deal

2026-06-01

An international court in The Hague has ruled the United Kingdom does not have to pay Rwanda any of the more than £100m the Rwandan government sought over the collapsed asylum deal. The Permanent Court of Arbitration rejected Rwanda's claim that the UK breached the agreement, which was signed by the Conservative government and scrapped by Keir Starmer shortly after he took office in 2024.

Wife of Maine Senate hopeful calls text message reports 'shameful'

2026-06-01

Amy Gertner, wife of Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, released a video over the weekend condemning media reports about her husband's past sexually explicit text messages. Gertner characterized the coverage as gossip and defended the imperfections of her marriage.

California governor and Los Angeles mayor races remain wide open ahead of primary

2026-06-01

California voters head to the polls Tuesday for primary elections that feature tightly contested open races for governor and Los Angeles mayor. The contests are defined by uncertainty, drawing outsider candidates and established political figures into a state-wide and municipal spotlight as campaigns enter their final days.

Democrat Rob Sand eyes Iowa governor’s race as party targets midterm gains

2026-06-01

State Auditor Rob Sand has formally campaigned to succeed retiring Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds, positioning himself as a pragmatic alternative in a state Democrats have struggled to win since 2011. As Iowa voters head to primary polls Tuesday, party strategists see shifting national dynamics and elevated fuel costs as potential openings to flip three U.S. House seats and a retiring Senate seat.

Pochettino's laptop timeout adds new wrinkle to World Cup's mid-half breaks

2026-06-01

USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino used a mandatory mid-half water break during Sunday's 3-2 friendly win over Senegal to huddle players around a laptop for an impromptu video session, creating a viral moment that highlighted the tactical potential — and controversy — of FIFA's new cooling-break rule at the upcoming World Cup.

UK bars US left-wing commentators Hasan Piker and Cenk Uygur from entry

2026-06-01

The UK Home Office revoked the visas of US political commentators Hasan Piker and Cenk Uygur, blocking them from entering the country to speak at the SXSW London festival and a university event. The two said they were banned for criticizing Israel, while the government and critics cited comments supporting Hamas and antisemitic rhetoric.

Poll finds 55% of Americans question Trump's health as he approaches 80

2026-06-01

A Washington Post/ABC News/Ipsos poll found that 55% of Americans now believe President Trump's health is insufficient for him to serve effectively, nearly double the 28% who held that view three years ago. The polling shift comes as Trump, who turns 80 on June 14, made his third in-person visit to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in just over a year.

60 Minutes correspondent openly criticizes new executive producer at first staff meeting

2026-06-01

Scott Pelley, a longtime "60 Minutes" correspondent, openly criticized new Executive Producer Nick Bilton and CBS News Editor in Chief Bari Weiss during Bilton's first staff meeting with the show's producers and on-air talent Monday, according to people at the gathering. Pelley questioned Bilton's qualifications and accused Weiss of "murdering" the show, drawing applause from some attendees.

Immigrant rights groups mobilize across World Cup host cities amid ICE fears

2026-06-01

More than 120 civil society groups are issuing a travel warning to the 10 million potential visitors expected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, cautioning them about the risk of detention, deportation, and arbitrary denial of entry as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement expands its footprint ahead of the tournament.

Autonomous truck technology is ready but regulation lags, FedEx Freight CEO says

2026-06-01

FedEx Freight CEO John Smith said autonomous tractor-trailer technology is ready for commercial use but regulatory approval remains the biggest hurdle, in an interview published by the Wall Street Journal on Sunday. Smith spoke shortly after FedEx Freight began trading as a standalone company following its spinoff from FedEx, becoming North America's largest less-than-truckload carrier with $8.7 billion in annual revenue.

De la Espriella leads Colombia first-round vote, forcing runoff

2026-06-01

Abelardo de la Espriella, a right-wing outsider known as 'El Tigre,' led Colombia's first-round presidential vote Sunday with 44% of ballots counted, setting up a June runoff against progressive senator Iván Cepeda, who took 41% with 99.98% of results in.

Young Uruguayan voters shift right as left-right ideological parity reached

2026-06-01

Polling data from Uruguayan firm Equipos Consultores indicates that ideological identification among adults aged 18 to 29 has reached rough parity between left and right for the first time in a generation, reflecting a broader regional shift in Latin America. Historical comparisons from Montevideo newspaper El País show the right leading the left by three percentage points as of 2025, reversing a long-standing leftward advantage.

Wise shares plunge as Belgian prosecutors probe money-laundering controls

2026-06-01

Shares in the international money transfer service Wise dropped more than 10% on Monday after the company confirmed it is responding to queries from Belgian prosecutors investigating its anti-money-laundering controls. Wise said the Brussels prosecutor’s office inquiries remain incomplete and no specific findings have been shared with the company to date.

Miami-Dade taxpayers may foot $400M bill for Fisher Island fuel depot

2026-06-01

A Chicago-based developer has reached an agreement in principle to sell a Fisher Island property to Miami-Dade county for approximately $400 million, more than double the $180 million it paid for the land less than a year ago, potentially leaving county taxpayers with a $220 million bill over a Depression-era fuel depot that services the world's busiest cruise port.

Colombian presidential election heads to June 21 runoff after no candidate clears 50%

2026-06-01

Colombia’s presidential election will proceed to a runoff on June 21 after neither of the top two candidates secured the 50% of votes needed to win outright in Sunday’s first-round poll. Preliminary results from the National Civil Registry show lawyer Abelardo de la Espriella leading with 43.7% of the vote, followed by Ivan Cepeda at 41%, according to United Press International.

UK government proposes national airline blacklist for abusive passengers

2026-06-01

The United Kingdom's government has proposed creating a national database that would allow airlines to share information on disruptive passengers and potentially bar them from flying with any carrier. Officials from the Department for Transport plan to meet with airlines this month to discuss how the scheme would work.

Taiwan opposition leader begins U.S. tour carrying Beijing's preferred message

2026-06-01

Cheng Li-wun, chairwoman of Taiwan's Kuomintang opposition party, began a two-week U.S. tour on Monday carrying a peace message that aligns closely with Beijing's preferred framing on cross-strait relations, arriving at a moment of deepening uncertainty over Washington's security commitments to Taipei.

MPs press UK regulator to prove Palantir deal won't expose data to US

2026-06-01

The UK's Financial Conduct Authority is under growing pressure from lawmakers and digital rights campaigners to demonstrate that its artificial-intelligence partnership with the US company Palantir will not expose sensitive British financial data to the Trump administration. Martin Wrigley, a Liberal Democrat member of the House of Commons science and technology select committee, has written to the regulator demanding it justify its claim that the US Cloud Act — a law that can compel American tech companies to hand data to US authorities — does not apply to the arrangement.

NHS single patient record faces first Commons debate amid integration push

2026-06-01

Members of Parliament will debate the NHS Modernisation Bill's second reading on Monday, marking the first legislative step toward a unified patient record system across England. Health and Social Care Secretary James Murray said the integrated database aims to eliminate repeated medical history recitations and connect GP, hospital, and social care data for frontline clinicians.

Markey wins Massachusetts Democratic endorsement over Moulton

2026-06-01

U.S. Sen. Ed Markey won the Massachusetts Democratic Party's endorsement Saturday, defeating U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton with nearly 73% of delegate support at the state convention in Worcester. Moulton, a moderate Democrat challenging the incumbent, secured nearly 27% of the vote — enough to clear the 15% threshold required to appear on the September primary ballot.

NYC Mayor Mamdani skips annual Israel Day parade

2026-06-01

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani broke with a decades-long political custom on Sunday by declining to attend the annual Israel Day parade, citing his sustained support for Palestinian rights.

Sky exits UAE news joint venture amid genocide-denial accusations

2026-05-31

Sky UK is ending its joint venture with United Arab Emirates-backed IMI over the Sky News Arabia channel, transitioning to a brand licensing arrangement that relinquishes operational control amid growing internal concerns over the channel's coverage of the war in Sudan.

Columnist argues Cornyn loss mirrors GOP shift from party to personality cult

2026-05-31

Guardian columnist Sidney Blumenthal argued on Saturday that Sen. John Cornyn's recent primary defeat to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton marks a terminal shift in the Republican Party, which Blumenthal said has transformed from a policy-driven institution into a personality-focused movement.

Trauma surgeon who served in Gaza leads New Jersey congressional primary

2026-05-31

Adam Hamawy, a veteran army trauma surgeon who spent nearly three weeks performing operations in Gaza during a 2024 medical mission, has emerged as the frontrunner in the crowded 12-way Democratic primary for New Jersey's 12th congressional district ahead of Tuesday's vote. The political newcomer has raised more than $1 million and won endorsements from prominent progressive figures including Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar and Sen. Tammy Duckworth.

Rising Lake Turkana waters displace communities and threaten Kenya's El Molo

2026-05-31

Rising waters in Lake Turkana, the world's largest permanent desert lake, have submerged homes, schools, and burial grounds across northern Kenya, displacing thousands of residents and severely disrupting the region's fragile fishing economy. The El Molo indigenous community, numbering only a few hundred, faces the prospect of losing their cultural and economic foundation as submerged buildings become crocodile breeding grounds and stormy weather cuts off children's access to mainland schools.

Seoul mayoral race intensifies as local elections approach

2026-05-31

The contest to lead South Korea's capital narrows as Democratic Party candidate Jung Won-oh and People Power Party incumbent Oh Se-hoon deliver competing critiques of city governance in the final weekend before nationwide local elections.

South Korea's Lee marks first year in office with approval above 60%

2026-05-31

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung will mark his first year in office Wednesday with a Gallup Korea approval rating of 64%, a stock market that has nearly tripled since his inauguration, and a legislative agenda accelerated by his party's large ruling majority.

Family linked to homeless housing supplier accused of fake prayer tax scheme

2026-05-31

A family-owned property group that sells temporary housing to local councils for homeless people is part of a broader business network accused of exploiting loopholes to avoid millions in property taxes, according to a Guardian investigation published May 31. The report highlights overlapping ownership within the Schreiber dynasty, whose members control a nationwide commercial portfolio.

Plymouth expects defense investment to create 25,000 new jobs

2026-05-31

The UK government's pledge to invest £4.4 billion in Plymouth's Devonport dockyard over the next decade is set to transform the city, with council estimates projecting up to 25,000 new jobs in the maritime and defense sector. Labour councillor Tudor Evans, leader of Plymouth city council, said the investment will "give Plymouth as a whole a pay rise" as the port city undergoes its largest regeneration since the post-Second World War rebuilding.

Open Society president argues anti-Muslim and antisemitic hate are twin crises

2026-05-31

The killing of three people at a mosque in San Diego has renewed calls among Jewish and Muslim leaders to confront anti-Muslim hate and antisemitism as interconnected threats rather than competing grievances. In a commentary published by The Guardian on May 31, Open Society Foundations president Binaifer Nowrojee argued that both forms of bigotry are being fueled by overlapping conspiracy theories and political fear-mongering.

Interior Secretary defends 250th concert donors as artists withdraw

2026-05-31

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum defended the funding structure and stated purpose of a Washington concert series planned for the United States' 250th anniversary on Sunday, declining to commit to publicly naming the event's backers after multiple performers withdrew over political concerns.

Family visitation partly restored at New Jersey ICE facility after week of protests

2026-05-31

Family visitation was partly restored at the Delaney Hall immigration detention center in Newark, New Jersey, on Sunday after being suspended during a week of protests prompted by a detainee hunger and labor strike. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill and the Department of Homeland Security both confirmed the restoration, though they offered competing accounts of who initiated it.

Lidl's first pub highlights Northern Ireland's century-old licensing rules

2026-05-31

Lidl is preparing to open its first-ever pub in Dundonald, east Belfast, a venture that required navigating one of Europe's most restrictive alcohol licensing systems and has renewed debate over whether Northern Ireland's century-old rules governing who can serve drinks need reform.

Nicola Sturgeon emotional in interview over husband's SNP embezzlement

2026-05-31

Former Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon became visibly emotional during a televised interview on Sunday, addressing the financial crimes committed by her estranged husband, Peter Murrell, while repeatedly denying any personal knowledge of the misconduct and asserting she has been cleared of wrongdoing by law enforcement.

Former minister calls Welsh Labour's Senedd collapse an existential crisis

2026-05-31

Former Welsh Labour minister Lee Waters described the party's performance in the Senedd election as an 'existential crisis' after Labour won just nine seats, finishing third behind Plaid Cymru and Reform UK, in what he called a 'painful and frustrating experience watching the slow-motion car crash.'

UK government to release second tranche of Mandelson appointment files

2026-05-31

The UK government will publish the second batch of documents detailing Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment as ambassador to the United States on Monday, according to three government sources. The release follows a parliamentary vote forcing full transparency over the controversial diplomatic posting.

Louisiana enacts new congressional map cutting majority-Black district

2026-05-30

Republican Gov. Jeff Landry signed a new congressional map into law Friday shortly after the Louisiana Legislature passed it, replacing a map with two majority-Black districts with one that creates a single such district and is designed to help Republicans gain a U.S. House seat in the 2026 midterm elections.

Deadline missed, triggering automatic TPS extension for 11,000 Lebanese

2026-05-30

The Trump administration has extended Temporary Protected Status for approximately 11,000 Lebanese nationals living in the United States, allowing them to remain and work for an additional six months. The extension, announced Thursday by the Department of Homeland Security, was triggered automatically after the administration missed a statutory deadline to decide on the program's future, according to the Associated Press.

Trump endorses in South Carolina, Iowa, Oklahoma governor races

2026-05-30

President Donald Trump endorsed three Republican gubernatorial candidates on Friday, backing South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Iowa Rep. Randy Feenstra and former Oklahoma state senator Mike Mazzei as their states’ primary elections approach.

US revokes Xinhua journalist's visa after China expels NYT reporter

2026-05-30

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration has revoked the visa of a Chinese national working for the Xinhua state news agency in an apparent reciprocal move after Beijing expelled a New York Times correspondent, a person familiar with the matter and a State Department official confirmed Friday.

Trump's physician declares president in 'excellent health' and 'fully fit' to serve

2026-05-30

President Donald Trump's physician says the 79-year-old commander in chief is in "excellent health" and remains "fully fit" to serve, releasing a summary of findings Friday following a medical examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center that involved 22 specialists, CT scanning, heart imaging, and cancer screenings.

Trump orders agencies to adopt HHS study recommending narrower childhood vaccine schedule

2026-05-30

President Donald Trump directed federal agencies on Friday to align with a study from the Department of Health and Human Services that calls for reducing the number of routine childhood vaccinations recommended for U.S. children. The executive order endorses the January HHS report, which Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has long advocated, and follows an earlier administration effort to narrow the vaccine schedule that was blocked by a federal court.

Oakland police on track to exit federal oversight by September

2026-05-30

A federal judge said Wednesday that the Oakland Police Department could be released from one of the longest-running federal police reform oversight programs in the country as early as September, after the department's federal monitor reported full compliance with all 51 court-mandated reforms for the first time in 23 years.

Ghanaian mother and son with valid visas ordered deported after Dulles airport detention

2026-05-30

Annabella Gyasi, 38, arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport on May 19 with her young son, both traveling on valid visas for a medical appointment related to the boy’s severely malformed hands. Instead of receiving the scheduled care, they were detained by immigration officers after Gyasi said they had faced persecution in Ghana and feared returning, according to her lawyers. After more than a week in a windowless detention room and two hospitalizations for pregnancy complications, Gyasi felt she had no choice but to agree to return to Ghana, the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia said in a petition filed on her behalf.

U.S. commander meets with Cuban military at Guantanamo Bay amid tensions

2026-05-30

WASHINGTON — The top U.S. military commander in Latin America met with Cuban military leaders Friday near the U.S. Navy base at Guantanamo Bay for what officials described as a “brief exchange on operational security matters,” the latest in a series of high-level contacts between the two nations as President Donald Trump ramps up pressure on the island.

California air regulators approve cap-and-trade changes, drawing fire from all sides

2026-05-30

California air regulators unanimously approved the first major update to the state’s cap-and-trade program in eight years on Friday, expanding the use of carbon offsets and the availability of pollution allowances — changes that drew sharp criticism from environmental groups who say the program is being weakened and from oil industry representatives who say it still imposes high costs on consumers.

Former Arcadia mayor pleads guilty to acting as illegal Chinese agent

2026-05-30

Eileen Wang, the former mayor of Arcadia, California, pleaded guilty Friday to one count of acting in the United States as an illegal agent of the Chinese government, admitting she shared articles favorable to Beijing without notifying the U.S. government as required by law, federal prosecutors said.

California governor candidates make closing pitches as primary nears end

2026-05-30

California gubernatorial candidates are rushing to deliver their closing arguments as the state's primary election approaches its Tuesday conclusion, with former U.S. health secretary Xavier Becerra, billionaire campaigner Tom Steyer and businessman Steve Hilton making their final pitches to voters.

Chicago prosecutor says no Carroll perjury probe; investigation targets nonprofit funder, source clarifies

2026-05-29

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago is not investigating E. Jean Carroll for perjury, the office’s top federal prosecutor said, undercutting earlier reports that the Justice Department was examining whether Carroll lied during her civil lawsuits against President Donald Trump. Instead, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press that the investigation actually concerns a nonprofit that helped fund Carroll’s litigation.

In Memoir, Jill Biden Questions Response to Joe Biden's Debate Performance

2026-05-29

Former first lady Jill Biden, in a memoir set for release next Tuesday, reflects on former President Joe Biden’s disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump in 2024 and wonders whether it would have been better to acknowledge the poor showing rather than reassure supporters afterward, according to an advance copy obtained by The Associated Press.

Federal judge had sex in chambers, lied about it, gets private reprimand

2026-05-29

A federal judge based in the Southeastern United States had an extramarital affair with a high-ranking police officer that included sexual encounters in the judge’s chambers overheard by court staff, an investigation by the federal judiciary found. The judge initially lied about the conduct but remains on the bench after receiving only a private reprimand, according to a disciplinary order affirmed last week.

Bondi refuses to answer questions on Trump's role in Epstein files release

2026-05-29

Former Attorney General Pam Bondi declined to answer questions Friday about President Donald Trump's involvement in the release of the Jeffrey Epstein case files during a closed-door interview with House lawmakers. Bondi defended the Justice Department's handling of the files and said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, now acting attorney general and Trump's former personal attorney, had overseen the publication process.

Federal judge refuses to block Trump executive order limiting mail voting

2026-05-28

A federal judge on Wednesday declined to block President Donald Trump’s executive order establishing a national voter list and restricting mail-in voting, allowing the administration to proceed with sweeping election-policy changes ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, a Trump appointee, rejected a request by Democratic organizations and civil rights groups for a preliminary injunction, accepting the administration’s argument that the order’s legality could not be fully assessed before it takes effect. The ruling does not address the merits of the challenge, and a separate lawsuit against the order is pending in Boston.

GOP immigration bill stalls as internal disputes spill into broader legislative agenda

2026-05-28

Republican efforts to advance a $70 billion immigration enforcement bill have stalled in Congress, tripped up by disputes over White House ballroom security funding and a $1.8 billion fund for government mistreatment claims, delaying action on what was supposed to be one of the party's easier legislative wins ahead of the midterms.

Louisiana House advances GOP redistricting plan following Supreme Court ruling

2026-05-28

The Louisiana House of Representatives passed a congressional redistricting plan Thursday that would eliminate the state’s current majority-Black congressional district, advancing a Republican-led map designed to secure additional GOP seats in the U.S. House ahead of the November midterm elections.

Michigan Democrats clash over party future in first U.S. Senate debate

2026-05-28

MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. — Three Democratic candidates for Michigan's open U.S. Senate seat met in a combative televised debate Thursday, as progressive candidate Abdul El-Sayed repeatedly went on offense against his rivals and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow called for a "reckoning" in the Democratic Party.

Michigan Democrats unveil ‘Death with Dignity’ bills to allow physician-assisted death

2026-05-28

Michigan House Democrats last month introduced a package of bills that would allow terminally ill patients to obtain life-ending medication, reopening a debate that once made the state the epicenter of the assisted suicide controversy with the acts of Dr. Jack Kevorkian. The legislation, known as the “Death with Dignity Act,” would make Michigan the 15th jurisdiction to permit physician-assisted death, joining 14 states and the District of Columbia that cover more than 100 million Americans. The bills face uncertain prospects in the Republican-controlled Legislature, with the lead sponsor saying the referral to a committee signals GOP leadership will not advance the measure.

State Department reviews 53 Mexican consulates; closures could disrupt legal help for immigrants

2026-05-28

The U.S. State Department has launched a review that could lead to the closure of an unspecified number of Mexico’s 53 consulates in the United States, alarming immigrant communities and legal advocates who rely on the diplomatic posts for passport renewals, birth registrations and increasingly, legal help for families navigating President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement, the Associated Press reported Thursday.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara Resigns After Investigation Finds Interference

2026-05-28

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara resigned effective immediately on Thursday, May 28, 2026, after an investigation commissioned by Mayor Jacob Frey found he had likely interfered in an internal police misconduct investigation. O’Hara, an outsider hired in 2022 to reform a department still reeling from the murder of George Floyd, became the third chief to depart in four years, deepening a leadership void in a city that has struggled to rebuild public trust in its police.

Judge says he can't force Louisiana to fix Angola prison farm labor conditions

2026-05-28

A federal judge in Baton Rouge ruled he cannot order Louisiana to improve dangerously harsh working conditions for prisoners forced to labor in extreme heat at the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, citing a recent appellate court decision that altered the standard for proving cruel and unusual punishment.

Justice Department sues four states over undercover license plates for federal agents

2026-05-28

The U.S. Department of Justice sued Maine, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Washington on Thursday, alleging those states are imposing unconstitutional restrictions by refusing to issue undercover license plates to federal agents, escalating the Trump administration’s conflict with Democratic-led states over immigration enforcement.

Protesters, ICE officers clash outside Newark detention center amid hunger strike

2026-05-28

Protesters and federal immigration officers clashed Thursday outside Delaney Hall, a detention center in Newark, New Jersey, where advocates say detainees have launched a hunger strike over poor living conditions. Families of those held at the facility reported that immigrants inside were subjected to pepper spray and physical force, while New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill said state health inspectors were denied full access to the building for a planned inspection.

Treasury Department has prepared design for Trump $250 bill

2026-05-28

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Thursday that his department has prepared the design for a new $250 bill featuring President Donald Trump, anticipating legislation in Congress to put the president on a new denomination of U.S. currency.

Stolen as a baby during Pinochet dictatorship, Chilean American reunites with birth mother

2026-05-28

Kyle Adler, a 36-year-old Chilean American, learned he was stolen from his biological mother as an infant and was adopted by an American family in 1990, the Associated Press reported. Earlier this year he reunited with his birth mother, becoming part of a wave of hundreds of Chilean adoptees using DNA tracing and nonprofit organizations to reconstruct the families that were torn apart by the regime of General Augusto Pinochet.

Paxton defeats Cornyn in Texas GOP Senate runoff after Trump endorses challenger

2026-05-27

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn's sustained effort to align himself with President Donald Trump could not prevent his defeat in the Texas Republican Senate primary runoff on Tuesday. The four-term incumbent lost by a double-digit margin to state Attorney General Ken Paxton, the Associated Press reported, becoming the latest in a series of GOP officeholders to fall to a primary challenger after losing the president’s support.

Years needed to replenish key US weapons used in Iran war, CSIS analysis finds

2026-05-27

The United States will need at least three years to replenish stockpiles of Tomahawk cruise missiles and Patriot and THAAD air-defense interceptors heavily expended during the Iran war, according to an analysis released Wednesday by the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The CSIS report warns that depleted inventories have created a window of vulnerability for any potential future conflict with China.

Trump is getting the GOP he wants, but can he win the midterms?

2026-05-27

Donald Trump is using his influence to steer the Republican Party toward candidates he favors, most recently backing Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the Senate runoff. At a Cabinet meeting, Trump told officials that the war with Iran, not the November midterms, is his only priority, while Republican strategists warn his focus could hurt the party’s chances in the fall. Democrats see the president’s economic rhetoric and the Iran conflict as ammunition for upcoming campaign ads.

Trump administration revamps green‑card process, demanding overseas applications

2026-05-27

Washington — The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced Friday that foreign nationals who are already in the United States must leave the country and apply for a green card from their home nation, barring unspecified exceptions. The policy shift, unveiled by the Trump administration, could affect hundreds of thousands of applicants each year and is expected to slow processing, immigration attorneys said. Lawyers such as Flavia Santos Lloyd described the move as a “chilling effect” that may deter some candidates, while others warned it could be a scare tactic aimed at limiting legal immigration pathways.

Democratic lawmakers visit Newark detention center, allege hunger strike and poor conditions

2026-05-27

On Wednesday, a delegation of Democratic members of Congress toured Delaney Hall, a 1,000‑bed federal immigration detention center in Newark, New Jersey, where they observed detainees on a reported hunger strike and described conditions as “inhumane.” Rep. Jerry Nadler said detainees receive food portions “very often” contaminated with maggots and that the only medication provided is Tylenol. Rep. Dan Goldman warned that people held in the facility are “living in jail conditions, and none of these people are criminals.” The visit followed a series of protests outside the facility’s security gate that began Friday and have drawn criticism of ICE’s handling of the center.

Tom Steyer sets national record with $195 million ad blitz in California

2026-05-27

Billionaire Democrat Tom Steyer has spent or booked more than $195 million on television, cable and radio advertising in his campaign for California governor, the highest political ad spending of any candidate in the nation this year, according to data from the advertising tracking firm AdImpact.

FDA staffers blindsided by new vaping policy easing e‑cigarette access

2026-05-27

Senior officials at the Food and Drug Administration’s tobacco center were not consulted on a recent policy change that allows more unauthorized electronic cigarettes and nicotine pouches onto the U.S. market, two FDA staffers told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Trump plays mayor at Cabinet meeting, detailing DC renovations

2026-05-27

President Donald Trump spent roughly 10 minutes of a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday detailing renovation projects across Washington, including power-washing and painting the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool and repairing brick walkways at Lafayette Park, in a digression that drew more attention than discussions on the war in Iran and rising gas prices.

Minnesota voters to decide on unlocking more school funding from $2.3B trust fund

2026-05-27

Minnesota voters will decide this November whether to amend the state constitution to allow public schools to draw more money from the Permanent School Fund, a $2.3 billion trust established at statehood in 1858. The proposed change, which passed the Legislature with bipartisan support, would increase annual disbursements from the fund without raising taxes.

Christian Menefee defeats Al Green in Texas Democratic runoff

2026-05-27

Christian Menefee, a 38‑year‑old Democrat, beat 78‑year‑old incumbent Al Green in a Texas primary runoff on May 27, 2026. The race in a Houston‑area district was shaped by a pro‑cryptocurrency super PAC that spent millions to unseat Green. Menefee praised Green’s legacy and condemned Republican‑led redistricting that delayed the election.

Newsom signs law shielding California elections from federal interference

2026-05-27

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation Wednesday that prohibits any person — including federal agents — from accessing California voter rolls or election technology without a court order. The measure, taking effect immediately ahead of next Tuesday’s primary, also restricts law enforcement officers from disrupting election workers, except in public safety emergencies.

Appeals court gives Mahmoud Khalil more time to fight deportation

2026-05-27

A federal appeals court is giving former Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Khalil more time to fight the Trump administration’s efforts to deport him, extending a legal battle that has drawn attention over free speech and immigration enforcement.

USCIS requires green card applicants to leave U.S., apply abroad

2026-05-27

The Trump administration announced late last week that most foreigners in the United States seeking permanent residency will have to depart and apply for a green card from their home country, a policy shift that immigration attorneys said has sown confusion and could delay applications for hundreds of thousands of people.

Trump admin plans to send Ebola-exposed Americans to Kenya facility, official says

2026-05-27

The Trump administration is planning to send Americans who are exposed to Ebola while abroad to a new quarantine and treatment facility in Kenya instead of flying them back to the United States, according to an administration official. The facility, being set up jointly by the Departments of Defense, State and Health and Human Services, is intended for patients needing to evacuate the Democratic Republic of the Congo quickly, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to detail the plans.

Maine secretary of state removes transgender sports referendum from November ballot

2026-05-27

A Maine ballot initiative that would have required public schools to restrict access to bathrooms and sports based on the gender listed on a child's birth certificate has been removed from the November ballot, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows ruled Tuesday, after her office determined more than 12,000 signatures on the petition were invalid.

New York governor signs law criminalizing blocking entry to houses of worship

2026-05-27

Gov. Kathy Hochul signed legislation Tuesday making it a crime to block someone from entering a house of worship or to act in a way that makes worshippers fear for their safety, and expressly authorizing police to establish 50-foot protest-free buffer zones outside such buildings, after a series of raucous demonstrations targeting New York City synagogues.

Pope Leo XIV issues historic apology for Holy See's role in legitimizing slavery

2026-05-27

Pope Leo XIV issued a historic apology Monday for the Holy See's own role in legitimizing slavery, calling the Vatican's record a 'wound in Christian memory.' The apology, delivered in the pontiff's first encyclical, directly addressed papal bulls that for centuries gave European sovereigns explicit authority to enslave 'infidels.' Leo is the first U.S.-born pope, and his family background includes both enslaved people and slave owners.

Proposed ban on potassium bromate could reshape New York's pizza and bagels

2026-05-27

New York lawmakers have passed a bill that would ban the use of potassium bromate in food, putting a century-old baking additive at the center of a debate over the future of the state’s pizza and bagels. The legislation, which now goes to Gov. Kathy Hochul, targets a chemical considered a possible carcinogen and already prohibited in the European Union, Canada, and several other countries.

Jill Biden feared husband Joe was having a stroke during 2024 debate

2026-05-27

Former First Lady Jill Biden said she feared her husband, then-President Joe Biden, was having a stroke as she watched his halting performance against Donald Trump in the June 2024 debate that ended his reelection campaign, in excerpts from a CBS News interview and her forthcoming memoir released Wednesday.

ICE detainees dying by suicide at an alarming rate, AP investigation finds

2026-05-27

Detainees in Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody are dying by suicide at an accelerating rate, an Associated Press investigation has found, documenting deaths across a sprawling jail network where people in mental distress were isolated, denied medical care, and cut off from family contact.

Trump touts Paxton win as GOP midterm warning signs mount

2026-05-27

President Donald Trump on Wednesday celebrated Texas Republican Ken Paxton’s Senate runoff victory over Sen. John Cornyn as a sign of momentum for his party’s November midterm prospects, even as Republican operatives warned that his tightening grip on the GOP could backfire with a broader electorate that has soured on his second term and the economy.

Advance Publications publisher and former AP board chair Donald Newhouse dies at 96

2026-05-27

Donald E. Newhouse, who led Advance Publications’ 35 newspapers for nearly half a century and served as chairman of the board of The Associated Press, died Tuesday at his home in New Jersey at the age of 96, his family said. Anna Wintour, global editorial director of Vogue and Condé Nast’s chief content officer, remembered him as a figure who “filled you with energy and humor when you felt doubtful and weak.”

States criminalize worship service disruptions after Minnesota church protest

2026-05-27

At least four states have enacted laws this year making it a crime to disrupt religious services, a legislative response to a January protest inside a Minnesota church that drew federal charges and national outrage. Republican lawmakers in Idaho, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Kansas say the laws protect worshippers from harassment and violence, while First Amendment advocates warn the statutes are broad enough to criminalize peaceful protest.

Ex-CIA official David Rush charged with stealing $40 million in gold bars

2026-05-27

A former senior CIA official with top-secret security clearance, David Rush, was arrested and charged with criminal theft of public money after federal agents found more than $40 million in gold bars, $2 million in cash, and 35 luxury watches at his Virginia home, according to an FBI affidavit filed in federal court.

Prosecutors drop charges against activists in Chicago immigration crackdown

2026-05-27

Chicago’s top federal prosecutor abandoned a closely watched case Thursday against four activists who protested outside a federal building during an immigration crackdown last year, after a judge highlighted allegations of grand jury misconduct within his office. U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros announced the dismissal in federal court following a closed-door review of grand jury transcripts, telling U.S. District Judge April Perry he was unaware until recently of the misconduct, which included a prosecutor meeting privately with a grand juror and other jurors who disagreed with the prosecution being barred from participating.

Indiana woman fired over Charlie Kirk post wins $225K settlement

2026-05-27

Ball State University will pay $225,000 to settle a federal lawsuit filed by Suzanne Swierc, a former employee who was fired after posting a critical comment about conservative activist Charlie Kirk on her private Facebook page, the American Civil Liberties Union announced Tuesday.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara resigns after probe interference

2026-05-27

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara resigned Tuesday rather than face disciplinary action for interfering with an internal investigation into his conduct, Mayor Jacob Frey announced. The resignation comes as the department was navigating reforms imposed after the killing of George Floyd and a recent federal immigration crackdown.

BP Ousts Chairman Albert Manifold Over Governance, Conduct Concerns

2026-05-27

BP abruptly removed Chairman Albert Manifold on Tuesday, less than a year into his tenure, after the board uncovered what it described as serious governance and conduct issues. The board was “surprised and disappointed” by the matters, senior independent director Amanda Blanc said in a statement.

South Carolina Senate rejects Trump's push for new congressional maps

2026-05-26

South Carolina senators on Tuesday rejected a Republican plan urged by President Donald Trump to redraw congressional districts ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The Senate voted against cancelling the ongoing primary and instead scheduled a new primary under revised districts, while early voting opened for the June 9 primary.

Supreme Court sides with Trump in immigration judges' speech case

2026-05-26

The Supreme Court on Tuesday sided with President Donald Trump's administration in a procedural dispute over speech restrictions for immigration judges, ruling that the judges must take their free-speech challenge through the Merit Systems Protection Board rather than federal court.

Republican redistricting reshapes congressional maps, affecting millions of voters

2026-05-26

A wave of Republican‑led redistricting efforts is reshaping U.S. House districts in at least six states, placing millions of voters in new congressional maps ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The moves follow former President Donald Trump’s encouragement of Texas Republicans to redraw districts last year and are aimed at boosting GOP seat prospects in a closely divided House. State officials and courts are already weighing the plans, with the U.S. Supreme Court, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, and the Missouri Supreme Court all playing key roles.

Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner defends Red Sox ad after it’s pulled

2026-05-26

Democrat Graham Platner, the presumptive Senate nominee in Maine, aired a 15‑second advertisement during a Boston Red Sox broadcast that accused the team’s owners of a “private‑equity curse.” The spot was removed by New England Sports Network (NESN) before the game ended, and Platner said the pull coincided with the Red Sox surrendering a 4‑0 lead. The incident has sparked a fresh round of criticism of Platner’s judgment as he campaigns to unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins.

Cornyn tried to avoid Trump's wrath but lost Texas Senate primary to Paxton

2026-05-26

A runoff for an open Texas U.S. Senate seat ended Tuesday with incumbent Sen. John Cornyn losing to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, according to Associated Press reporting. The loss highlighted how, in the Republican Party’s primaries, candidates who stand out from President Donald Trump’s agenda can still face political punishment. Cornyn had tried for more than a year to demonstrate alignment with Trump, even as Paxton emerged as Trump’s preferred choice.

Trump administration proposes NDAs for current and future federal employees

2026-05-26

The Trump administration on Tuesday proposed requiring all current and future federal employees to sign non-disclosure agreements, the latest move in a continuing crackdown on leaks to the media. The proposed rule, published on the Office of Personnel Management website, seeks to document employees' acknowledgment of legal obligations to safeguard non-public information while preserving rights to make disclosures authorized by law.

No-bond immigrant policy echoed in Tacoma before nationwide rollout

2026-05-26

By denying bond to many immigrants held on immigration charges, four Washington immigration judges in Tacoma reached a conclusion that later mirrored a broader Trump administration policy, according to an Associated Press review. The judges’ approach began in the early 2010s at the Northwest ICE Processing Center and became national after Trump administration enforcement theories were adopted in recent years. In May 2026, a separate legal setback knocked down the administration’s policy, setting up a likely Supreme Court dispute.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton ousts Sen. John Cornyn in GOP runoff

2026-05-26

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton defeated four-term incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in the Republican primary runoff on Tuesday, capitalizing on President Donald Trump's endorsement to become the first Republican senator from Texas to lose the party's nomination for reelection.

Maine secretary of state removes transgender sports ballot measure over insufficient signatures

2026-05-26

Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows ruled on Tuesday that the Protect Girls Sports initiative — which would have required public schools to restrict bathroom and sports access based on a child’s birth‑certificate gender — is ineligible for the November ballot after investigators found more than 12,000 of the petition’s signatures invalid. The decision leaves the measure several hundred signatures short of the 67,682 required to qualify.

Trump raises US refugee cap for white South Africans only

2026-05-26

The Trump administration announced Tuesday it will admit 10,000 additional white South Africans as refugees this year, raising the annual cap to 17,500 but restricting the program exclusively to Afrikaners. Democrats criticized the move as abandoning other refugees, including Afghan allies and those fleeing war and persecution worldwide.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. handles snakes on Dr. Oz’s patio in viral video

2026-05-26

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. health secretary, posted a video on Tuesday showing himself gripping the tails of two black‑racer snakes on the patio of Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. The clip, shared on Kennedy’s personal social‑media accounts, quickly went viral and sparked mixed reactions online. Kennedy’s wife, actress Cheryl Hines, can be heard asking “Why?” as he holds the snakes, while herpetologists warned that the handling method could harm the reptiles.

FCC’s sole Democrat warns media companies against yielding to Trump

2026-05-26

In an interview, Anna Gomez said her warning to Disney came after what she described as a campaign by the FCC to control and censor speech. Gomez, the only Democrat on the Federal Communications Commission, described FCC actions she says are aimed at media companies—including Disney’s ABC—as the Supreme Court weighs challenges to Trump administration moves. She also said she checks daily to see whether President Donald Trump has fired her.

Publisher and former AP board chair Donald Newhouse dies at 96

2026-05-26

Donald E. Newhouse, president of one of the nation’s largest family-controlled publishing companies and a former board chairman of The Associated Press, died Tuesday at his home in New Jersey. He was 96. Newhouse oversaw Advance Publications’ newspaper group for nearly 50 years and later led the Newspaper Association of America and the AP’s board.

Indiana woman fired over Charlie Kirk post wins $225K settlement

2026-05-26

A woman fired by Ball State University over a Facebook post criticizing conservative activist Charlie Kirk will receive $225,000 to settle a lawsuit, her attorneys said Tuesday. The ACLU said the university retaliated against Suzanne Swierc for speaking as a private citizen on a matter of public concern.

Black Caucus urges US corporations to oppose Republican redistricting push

2026-05-26

On May 26, 2026, Rep. Yvette Clarke, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, sent a letter to more than 250 major U.S. companies urging them to publicly condemn Republican‑led redistricting plans that would eliminate majority‑Black House districts. The caucus characterizes the effort as “coordinated attempts to silence Black voices at the ballot box” and asks firms that previously backed voting‑rights initiatives to meet with caucus members, disclose Republican donations, and take a stand for democracy.

Appeals court pauses deportation case of former Columbia student Mahmoud Khalil

2026-05-26

A federal appeals court has put its ruling on hold, giving former Columbia graduate student Mahmoud Khalil, a lawful permanent resident, extra time to challenge the Trump administration’s effort to deport him. Khalil was detained last year after participating in pro‑Palestinian protests, and a New Jersey federal judge had previously freed him on constitutional grounds. The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals now ordered a stay while Khalil prepares an appeal to the Supreme Court.

Biden sues Justice Department to block release of Hur interview audio

2026-05-26

Joe Biden sued the Justice Department in federal court Tuesday seeking to block the release of audio recordings and transcripts of his 2016 and 2017 interviews with a ghostwriter. Biden’s lawyers said the Justice Department plans to provide the materials to Congress and to the Heritage Foundation. They argued that releasing the files would be an “unwarranted invasion of President Biden’s privacy.”

Spike in ICE detainee suicides since Jan. 2025

2026-05-26

An Associated Press investigation found an “alarming” spike in suicide deaths among people held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with at least 10 deaths since President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025. AP reported that nine of the 10 deaths involved Hispanic men, and that the pace of suicides has outpaced growth in the detained population.

Cornyn and Paxton flood Texas airwaves, avoid public on final day of runoff

2026-05-25

Sen. John Cornyn and state Attorney General Ken Paxton held no public campaign events Monday, the final day before the Texas Republican Senate runoff. Instead, the two candidates waged their contest through a $109 million television ad blitz that has defined the race for months, with President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Paxton looming over the airwaves.

Cornyn, Paxton face off in Texas GOP Senate runoff as Trump endorses challenger

2026-05-25

Texas voters will decide a Republican primary runoff for U.S. Senate on Tuesday pitting four-term incumbent John Cornyn against state Attorney General Ken Paxton, with President Donald Trump endorsing Paxton in a contest that will gauge Trump's sway over the party and set the stage for a general election Democrats view as increasingly competitive.

Cornyn and Paxton flood Texas airwaves before GOP Senate runoff

2026-05-25

Voters in Texas on Monday saw few public campaign events from U.S. Sen. John Cornyn and state Attorney General Ken Paxton as they headed into Tuesday’s GOP runoff, but both candidates’ messages kept spreading across television and radio. The Associated Press reported their advertising blitz has topped $109 million, with Cornyn’s side spending far more than Paxton’s as the race enters its final day.

Democrats feud over stock trades while sharpening attacks on Trump

2026-05-25

The Democrats’ push to frame congressional stock trading as a corruption issue is colliding with infighting inside the party, as candidates trade accusations about personal wealth ahead of midterm and runoff contests. In a Texas House runoff, Colin Allred and Julie Johnson clashed over Johnson’s Palantir-related trades and over Allred’s own financial disclosures as they try to persuade voters skeptical of politicians profiting in Washington. The feud reflects a broader Democratic debate over money in politics as the party seeks to sharpen its anti-corruption message against President Donald Trump.

Trump’s emerging Iran deal draws some Republican criticism

2026-05-25

President Donald Trump’s emerging proposal to end the Iran war is drawing heavy criticism from some fellow Republicans who want a harder line against Tehran. The proposals’ outline includes ending the war while Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz and gives up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, with details and timelines set during a later 60-day window.

Muslims begin annual Hajj as war tensions shape travel planning

2026-05-25

Millions of Muslims began the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia on Monday, with more than 1.5 million pilgrims arriving from outside the country, according to Hajj passport forces. The start of the multi-day rite comes amid regional strain following an Iran conflict that has included a fragile ceasefire and increased uncertainty across the Middle East.

Brennan Center CEO calls some of Trump’s moves “corrupt,” outlines fixes

2026-05-25

Michael Waldman, president and CEO of the Brennan Center for Justice, told NPR that he views some moves by the Trump administration as “epic corruption in plain sight.” Waldman pointed to a proposed nearly $1.8 billion “antiweaponization” fund tied to a lawsuit settlement, criticism from lawmakers in Trump’s own party, and disclosures about Trump’s stock trades. He also called for legislative changes to limit dark money and strengthen conflict-of-interest rules.

Democrats face hurdles matching GOP redistricting gains for 2026 and 2028

2026-05-25

Democrats are preparing to counter Republicans’ push to redraw U.S. House districts mid-decade, but they face state-level constraints Republicans often do not, according to an Associated Press analysis. The timing is especially difficult because the party expects to take advantage of election-year mapmaking this fall while also planning for the next House majority fight in 2028.

Texas GOP Senate runoff pits Cornyn vs. Paxton in Trump-backed showdown

2026-05-25

Voters in Texas will hold a Republican primary runoff on Tuesday to decide the party’s U.S. Senate nominee, after John Cornyn and Ken Paxton both advanced from the March 3 contest. The winner will face Democratic state Rep. James Talarico in the general election, with the runoff also unfolding alongside primary runoffs in more than a dozen House districts and state races.

No-bond immigration policy took root in Tacoma years before Trump adopted it

2026-05-25

Four immigration judges at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma, Washington, began denying bond to detained immigrants years before the Trump administration adopted the same approach nationwide — a practice now facing a likely Supreme Court showdown after an appeals court struck it down this month.

Pope Leo XIV apologizes for Vatican’s role in legitimizing slavery

2026-05-25

Vatican City’s Pope Leo XIV made a public apology on Monday for the Holy See’s role in legitimizing slavery and for centuries in which it failed to condemn it, calling the Vatican record a “wound in Christian memory.” In his first encyclical, “Magnifica Humanitas,” the pope also urged “robust regulation” of artificial intelligence and said developers should work for the common good rather than profit.

Democrats slam Texas House candidate over remarks seen as antisemitic

2026-05-25

A Democratic primary runoff in South Central Texas is drawing condemnation after party leaders and local Jewish leaders criticized candidate Maureen Galindo for remarks they said were antisemitic. Galindo, a housing activist and sex therapist, faces Bexar County Sheriff’s Deputy John Garcia in the runoff scheduled for tomorrow.

Christian nationalism’s growing influence on U.S. government

2026-05-25

In a new NPR series, religion correspondent Jason DeRose examines a recent shift in how Americans view the relationship between church and state, and what that means for U.S. politics. DeRose points to a Pew Research survey suggesting that religion’s influence on government is increasingly salient for many Americans—even as most people who say the influence is rising also say it makes them uncomfortable.

State laws limit access to psychiatric records of long-dead ancestors

2026-05-25

Families seeking psychiatric records of long-deceased relatives say state privacy rules have made it difficult, including in New York where records can remain sealed “in perpetuity.” An Associated Press review of the issue found that some states have changed access policies after advocates pushed for reforms, while others have moved slowly.

Travel industry condemns Mullin idea to withhold customs at sanctuary airports

2026-05-25

The travel industry condemned a threat by Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin to withdraw U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers from airports in so-called “sanctuary cities,” saying the move could jeopardize international flights. The U.S. Travel Association and major airline industry groups urged the administration not to reduce Customs staffing at major airports, and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said it “doesn’t make sense” to restrict travel based on political views.

Trump's emerging Iran deal draws some Republican criticism

2026-05-24

President Donald Trump's emerging deal to end the Iran war is drawing heavy criticism from some fellow Republicans who favor a harder line against Tehran, with Sen. Ted Cruz warning the terms as currently known could render the conflict 'for naught.'

Democrats face steep state hurdles in push to match GOP redistricting gains

2026-05-24

Democrats are positioned to finish several seats behind Republicans in the 2026 nationwide legislative map redistricting effort, facing constitutional constraints and voter-approved independent commissions that complicate their counter-offensive. While strategists expect typical midterm gains for the president's party this November, reversing the GOP's mid-decade map redraws will require complex legal maneuvers and state constitutional amendments across multiple battleground states.

Trump's emerging Iran war deal draws fire from fellow Republicans

2026-05-24

President Donald Trump’s emerging plan to end the three-month-old war with Iran has triggered a wave of Republican backlash, with senators Ted Cruz and Lindsey Graham warning it could leave Tehran with nuclear weapons and billions of dollars while securing control of the critical Strait of Hormuz.

Young Republicans in Kentucky question Trump as party plans next steps

2026-05-24

Over a recent evening in northern Kentucky, more than a dozen young Republicans gathered at a bar and said their excitement for President Donald Trump has soured into frustration as the party wrestles with life after him. Speaking with The Associated Press, they pointed to Trump’s war with Iran, economic uncertainty and a generational rift with older conservatives. Several said they want younger voices in Washington as they reassess which Republicans they can support.

Religious leaders and lawmakers seek $1B more for worship-site security

2026-05-24

Religious leaders and lawmakers are pressing Congress to increase funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, or NSGP, asking for $1 billion to help secure houses of worship. In meetings on Capitol Hill, officials and advocates said demand outpaces what the program has been able to award and warned that gaps in security resources can affect how prepared communities are for attacks.

DHS’s homeland security mission traces to post-9/11 unity, history shows

2026-05-24

“Homeland security” has become a shorthand for political insecurity in Washington as lawmakers miss a funding deadline for parts of the Department of Homeland Security, NPR reported. A late-session funding impasse in the U.S. Senate left key components, including the Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, without restored money as the summer and the federal fiscal year ramp up. The NPR analysis traces how the department was originally built in the wake of Sept. 11, 2001 to unify fragmented security functions—only to become a recurring target in partisan brinkmanship.

Trump administration expected to repeal Roadless Rule, opening forests to logging

2026-05-24

Millions of acres of national forests in the U.S. face changes that could allow more logging after the Trump administration is expected to repeal the Roadless Rule, a decades-old conservation policy, NPR reported May 24. NPR said the rule—signed under President Bill Clinton—had barred new logging and road building on tens of millions of acres.

Massie loses Kentucky GOP primary as Trump-backed challenger defeats him

2026-05-23

Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie lost his Republican House primary on Tuesday, according to The Associated Press, after President Donald Trump endorsed and attacked his opponent. The defeat left a libertarian-leaning, frequently independent voting style without a path to the House in the next Congress.

Takano links Trump immigration raids to WWII Japanese detentions

2026-05-23

In an interview with The Associated Press, Rep. Mark Takano compared current U.S. immigration raids to the forced relocation and incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. Takano said his family—his father, William, and his mother, Nancy Tsugiye Sakamoto—were detained as children, and he described what he called “similar arguments” used today about immigrants posing a threat to national security.

Trump postpones AI executive order days after concerns over cybersecurity and speed

2026-05-23

President Donald Trump called off plans for a White House ceremony to sign a new executive order on artificial intelligence hours before it was expected, saying the measure could weaken U.S. leadership in the technology. He postponed the event with tech industry executives, telling reporters that he did not want an order that could slow America’s edge in AI.

Trump granted sweeping IRS audit immunity, experts warn it undermines tax fairness

2026-05-23

The Justice Department has granted former President Donald Trump, his sons and the Trump Organization blanket immunity from any pending Internal Revenue Service audits, ending a $10 billion lawsuit the president filed after a 2018 leak of his tax returns. The settlement, released Tuesday, bars the IRS from examining the former president’s current tax filings while a $1.8 billion fund was set aside to compensate people the president claims were improperly investigated. Tax policy experts say the unprecedented move could erode confidence that tax rules apply equally to all Americans.

FDA staff blindsided by new vaping policy that allows more e‑cigarettes and nicotine pouches

2026-05-23

Senior officials at the Food and Drug Administration’s tobacco center learned the night before a six‑page memo was published that the agency was moving to permit additional e‑cigarette and nicotine‑pouch products without the usual scientific review. The draft policy, posted days before former FDA commissioner Marty Makary resigned, would let companies launch certain nicotine products “under enforcement discretion,” a move that breaks with longstanding FDA practice.

Progressives win Philadelphia House primary as Chris Rabb heads to Washington

2026-05-23

Progressives claimed a major win Tuesday in a Philadelphia Democratic House primary, with Chris Rabb finishing 15 percentage points ahead of his nearest rival. With no Republican candidate on the ballot, Rabb, a self-described Democratic socialist, is expected to move to Congress, where his backers say their momentum is headed for more races. Rabb, 55, cast his victory as a push for government that answers to voters rather than donors.

Trump veered off-topic in New York while promoting SALT tax cuts

2026-05-23

President Donald Trump traveled to the Hudson Valley on Friday to promote the tax law he signed last year, appearing with Rep. Mike Lawler and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman ahead of a competitive House race. At Rockland Community College in Suffern, New York, Trump began with material he said was about the economy but veered into voter identification, crime, transgender women in sports and a new name for Democrats before returning to taxes.

Rubio arrives in India ahead of Quad talks as U.S. seeks reset

2026-05-23

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in India on Saturday ahead of next week’s Quad ministerial meeting, where he will join counterparts from India, Australia and Japan. The trip follows strain in U.S.-India ties tied to President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, and includes meetings with Indian officials in New Delhi and visits to other cities.

Newsom urges Californians to skip Chevron over high gas prices

2026-05-23

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office urged drivers to avoid Chevron stations over Memorial Day weekend, arguing the oil company charges more than unbranded alternatives. In posts shared this week, Newsom’s staff said Chevron averaged more than 60 to 80 cents per gallon above unbranded options, citing an analysis by a group within the state’s energy commission.

Trump swears in Kevin Warsh as Fed chair at White House ceremony

2026-05-23

President Donald Trump on Friday oversaw the White House swearing-in of Kevin Warsh as the next Federal Reserve chair, signaling he wants Warsh to help boost the economy while saying the central bank will remain independent. The ceremony, held in the East Room and administered by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, came amid heightened market and inflation worries tied to the war with Iran and Trump’s prior pressure on Jerome Powell to cut rates.

Week in politics: Tulsi Gabbard resigns; pushback on Trump’s Capitol fund

2026-05-23

Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, is stepping down from the Cabinet-level role, NPR reported. In the same week’s political coverage, lawmakers voiced pushback on President Trump’s $1.8 billion fund that could be used to compensate some of those involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

South Carolina redistricting fight could reshape Jim Clyburn’s House seat

2026-05-23

South Carolina lawmakers are debating new congressional map lines after the U.S. Supreme Court weakened a section of the Voting Rights Act that protected majority-Black districts, raising questions about the future of 17-term Rep. Jim Clyburn. NPR reports that Clyburn said he will run again and argues he will do so based on his record. The political fight over the map is expected to continue this weekend.

Trump pauses planned strike on Iran after Gulf allies ask

2026-05-23

Trump said on Monday he called off a planned military strike on Iran at the request of Gulf Arab allies, and that “serious negotiations are now taking place.” He also told U.S. military commanders to stay on standby for “a full, large-scale assault of Iran” if an “acceptable Deal” is not reached, keeping pressure on Tehran while talks continue.

Trump says U.S.-Iran deal and Strait of Hormuz reopening are “largely negotiated”

2026-05-23

President Donald Trump said Saturday that a U.S. deal with Iran—covering an end to the war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz—is “largely negotiated,” with final details still being discussed. He said the effort follows calls with Israel and other regional allies and that negotiations still must be finalized by the United States, Iran and other participating countries.

Republicans defy Trump on proposed $1.776B Jan. 6 compensation fund

2026-05-23

President Donald Trump’s demand for a proposed $1.776 billion compensation fund for people he says were wrongly prosecuted for the Jan. 6, 2021, attack met resistance from Republican senators, who helped postpone a key vote and pushed budget negotiations out to next month. The Senate vote was postponed as angry GOP lawmakers bristled with the scope of the White House plan and other related requests, leaving Trump’s June 1 deadline to have a roughly $70 billion package on his desk unmet, according to the Associated Press.

Southern Republicans press redistricting ahead of midterm elections

2026-05-23

Republicans are redrawing congressional districts to gain an edge in the 2026 midterms after a U.S. Supreme Court decision weakened minority protections under the Voting Rights Act, the Associated Press reported May 23. In Tennessee, Alabama, Louisiana and South Carolina, state lawmakers and courts are moving quickly as election deadlines approach.

Ex-Columbia student Mahmoud Khalil asks Supreme Court to intervene in deportation

2026-05-23

Former Columbia graduate student Mahmoud Khalil’s lawyers asked the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene after a federal appeals court declined to rehear a ruling that put the government one step closer to deporting him. The American Civil Liberties Union said Khalil will seek an order from the 3rd Circuit to pause any detention or deportation while it asks the high court to take up the case.

Michigan House OKs bill giving Mackinac Island control of ferry rates

2026-05-23

The Michigan House on Thursday passed a bill that would give Mackinac Island authority over ferry services, including prices for fares, parking, and baggage handling. The legislation now goes to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and it would take effect only if a majority of island residents approve the charter amendment.

Blanche at center of Republican firestorm over $1.8B Justice fund

2026-05-23

Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche is facing Republican resistance over a Justice Department plan to create a $1.776 billion fund to compensate people who say they were unjustly investigated and prosecuted under President Donald Trump’s opponents. The fund, announced this week, also includes a guarantee of immunity from tax audits for Trump and his eldest sons, according to the Justice Department. Blanche has defended the effort as seeking justice based on facts and law, but Democrats and others have raised concerns that he remains too closely tied to the president.

All-women Senate delegation heads to the Arctic to reassure US allies

2026-05-23

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators led by Lisa Murkowski and Jeanne Shaheen will depart Friday on a tour of Arctic nations, leaving the men behind. The eight senators and their staff plan diplomatic visits to government officials in Canada, Greenland, Iceland and Norway’s Svalbard, and they will also meet Arctic military and Indigenous communities.

David Brock Smith wins GOP primary for U.S. Senate in Oregon

2026-05-23

David Brock Smith won the Republican primary for U.S. Senate in Oregon on Friday and will face Democratic incumbent Jeff Merkley in November, following the state’s May 19 primary election. Merkley, first elected in 2008, is generally viewed as having a safe seat, with Oregon having not elected a Republican U.S. senator since 2002.

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard resigns, cites husband’s cancer

2026-05-23

Tulsi Gabbard resigned as President Donald Trump’s director of national intelligence on Friday, saying she needed to leave her post so she could support her husband as he battles cancer. In her resignation letter, she said she told Trump she would step away from overseeing coordination among 18 intelligence agencies on June 30.

Lawmakers hear views on Trump plan to privatize TSA screening at 250 airports

2026-05-23

House Homeland Security Committee members held a hearing on Wednesday about ways to modernize the Transportation Security Administration as the Trump administration seeks to shift screening work to private contractors at about 250 smaller U.S. airports. The discussion turned on whether TSA officers would keep getting paid during future government shutdowns and on how airport screening should be funded and staffed.

Rubio says Iran talks show “slight progress” as strait mine search continues

2026-05-23

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Friday that he saw “slight progress” in talks with Iran, as Pakistan’s army chief traveled to Tehran for a new round of mediation efforts and uncertainty remained over whether the war would resume. Rubio made the comments as NATO foreign ministers met in Helsingborg, Sweden, and he also addressed the United States’ effort to keep commercial shipping moving through the Strait of Hormuz.

Senators press Hegseth to release $600M Ukraine, Baltic security aid

2026-05-23

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators is urging Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to act on $600 million in security aid Congress allocated for Ukraine and other eastern European allies, citing Defense Department delays. The senators sent a letter on Friday calling for the funding to be disbursed and warning that further postponements could weaken deterrence against Russia. The push comes as lawmakers seek updates on $400 million for Ukraine and $200 million for defense programs in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

Young Republicans wrestle with disappointment in Trump in Kentucky

2026-05-23

In northern Kentucky, a group of young Republicans met at a bar called dEcORa to talk politics with the Associated Press, describing their support for Donald Trump as turning into frustration. Several said Trump’s war with Iran has broken campaign promises, and they criticized the Republican establishment for keeping the next generation on the sidelines.

Trump’s green-card change would send some applicants abroad to apply

2026-05-23

The Trump administration announced that many foreigners in the U.S. seeking a green card will have to leave and apply from their home countries, with USCIS officers deciding whether an applicant qualifies for “extraordinary circumstances.” The shift, announced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, marks a break from a decadeslong “adjustment of status” process that let many people complete the path to permanent residence while in the United States.

San Francisco immigration court closes as judges are fired, retired or resign

2026-05-23

San Francisco’s main immigration court shut its doors on May 1 after a sweeping purge of its judges, leaving the city without a primary venue for asylum hearings. The court, which once had 21 judges when President Donald Trump took office, was reduced to just two remaining judges by the time it closed, according to the Associated Press. The shutdown is the latest sign of turmoil in the federal immigration‑court system under the Trump administration.

Trump administration to require many green-card applicants to apply abroad

2026-05-23

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration said foreigners in the U.S. who want a green card will generally have to leave and apply in their home country, in a change announced Friday by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The agency said nonimmigrants should not use a temporary stay as the first step in the green-card process, while immigration lawyers and aid groups said the policy could disrupt families and affect people already in the green-card pipeline.

How a new law could change New York’s pizzas and bagels

2026-05-23

New York lawmakers have passed a bill that would ban the flour additive potassium bromate, which some bakers say helps dough rise faster and produce the familiar texture of city pizza and bagels. The measure, awaiting Gov. Kathy Hochul’s signature, has split the baking industry between health concerns and worries that changing a long-used ingredient could force widespread menu and process adjustments.

Justice Department says it removed Jan. 6 defendant releases it calls “propaganda”

2026-05-23

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Department of Justice said it removed from its website news releases about criminal cases connected to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. The department described the purged information as “partisan propaganda.” In the latest development since President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025, the DOJ also announced a $1.776 billion fund aimed at compensating Trump allies who say they were unjustly investigated and prosecuted.

Critics sue to block payouts from $1.776B anti-weaponization fund

2026-05-23

President Donald Trump’s critics, including a fired former prosecutor, sued Friday to block payouts from a newly announced $1.776 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund” aimed at resolving the president’s IRS-related lawsuit over the leak of his tax returns. The plaintiffs, backed by Democracy Forward and others, asked a federal court to halt the fund and prevent the Justice and Treasury departments from disbursing money.

Chile starts “Border Shield” trench work to deter illegal entry

2026-05-23

Chile has begun building a new border “shield” on parts of its frontier with Peru and Bolivia, a project the new far-right President José Antonio Kast has framed as a hardline response to migration. In northern Chile, crews are digging trench sections along the boundary while Chilean officials say illegal entry attempts have declined in recent months.

Nate Rott explores the ethical dilemmas of covering the natural world

2026-05-23

NPR science correspondent Nate Rott says his beat—“the natural world and humanity’s relationship to it”—pushes him beyond climate into questions about biodiversity, monitoring ecosystems and the boundaries of what people should try to preserve. In a Reporter's Notebook conversation, he describes using audio as a way to capture river life, and he discusses debates over emerging efforts to use genetic tools to make species more resilient amid climate change.

RFK Jr. fires leaders of panel that sets insurance preventive-care rules

2026-05-23

The Trump administration has fired the two doctors who led the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a panel whose recommendations determine when many insurers must cover preventive screenings such as mammograms and colonoscopies without patient co-pays. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. notified the two chairs in letters dated May 11, terminating their appointments immediately ahead of the end of their multiyear terms, according to a report by The New York Times and interviews described by the Associated Press.

Trump’s deep‑sea mining order spurs investor rush as regulators fast‑track permits

2026-05-23

President Donald Trump’s 2025 executive order to develop a U.S. deep‑sea mining industry has ignited a wave of investor funding and soaring stock prices, while federal agencies accelerate permitting for seabed leases ranging from American Samoa to Alaska. At least nine companies are now in talks with the government for access to polymetallic nodules and other marine minerals.

Judges in Maine and Wisconsin reject DOJ efforts to obtain voter rolls

2026-05-23

Federal judges in Maine and Wisconsin on Thursday dismissed U.S. Department of Justice lawsuits seeking to compel the states to turn over detailed voter registration information, according to a decision in each case. A Wisconsin judge said the state voter registration list was not a record that could be requested under the Civil Rights Act of 1960, while Maine’s chief federal judge characterized the government’s argument as “half-hearted.”

As America hits 250, many Brits say one man defines it: Trump

2026-05-23

As the United States marks its 250th year of independence, a new Associated Press reporting trip finds that many people in Britain tie their view of the U.S. to President Donald Trump. In interviews across England and Scotland, residents said they struggle to discuss America now without referencing the Trump era.

Oklahoma’s new expungement law targets automatic clean-slate process

2026-05-23

Oklahoma lawmakers passed a bill to expand expungement access through an online request portal and an automatic expungement system, aiming for eligibility to be cleared by the end of 2029. The law, signed by Gov. Kevin Stitt in May, is expected to help people who have completed sentences whose records still block jobs, housing and other opportunities, advocates say.

Ex-judges warn feds are micromanaging Massachusetts immigration courts

2026-05-23

Two former immigration judges who worked in Massachusetts said federal actions are undermining judicial independence and increasing pressure on judges, after the Executive Office for Immigration Review terminated several judges when their two-year probation ended. Nina Fróes said she received a “NOTICE OF NON-CONVERSION” email that cut short her April 10 hearing at the Chelmsford Immigration Court. Another former judge, Sarah Cade, said she resigned after being told judges were expected to grant more stipulated removal requests and that administrative closure options were curtailed.

Judge dismisses human smuggling case of Abrego Garcia, citing vindictive prosecution

2026-05-23

A federal judge in Tennessee dismissed human smuggling charges against Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador in March 2025 despite a ruling that should have blocked it. The judge found evidence of “vindictive prosecution” by the Justice Department, according to a timeline of the case reported by The Associated Press.

Judge dismisses human smuggling case against Kilmar Abrego Garcia

2026-05-23

A federal judge dismissed a human smuggling case against Kilmar Abrego Garcia, saying prosecutors pursued the charges to punish him for challenging a mistaken deportation to El Salvador last year. The judge found the government’s case showed “presumptive vindictiveness,” and he dismissed the charges in Nashville, Tennessee.

DNC faces fresh turmoil as Ken Martin confronts calls to resign

2026-05-23

A day after the Democratic National Committee released a botched autopsy of the 2024 election, party officials and Democratic lawmakers renewed calls for Ken Martin to resign as chair. Rep. Marc Veasey of Texas and Rep. Seth Moulton of Massachusetts both said Martin should step down, while Martin apologized for mishandling the report and said he plans to continue leading.

UN General Assembly backs advisory opinion on climate duties after US opposition

2026-05-23

The U.N. General Assembly voted overwhelmingly on Wednesday to support strong action to limit climate change, endorsing a July advisory opinion by the International Court of Justice despite diplomatic efforts by the United States to derail the measure. The nonbinding resolution passed 141-8 with 28 abstentions, with the U.S. among the countries opposing it.

Confused about Big Bend border wall plans? Here’s where things stand

2026-05-23

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has outlined 30-foot-high steel bollard wall plans for a 175-mile stretch of the U.S.-Mexico border in West Texas and said no such physical wall is planned inside Big Bend National Park, while a separate project would add vehicle barriers, sensors and patrol roads. Local officials in Brewster County, the surrounding communities and several advocacy groups say the details have changed and argue the work could harm the park’s wildlife and dark skies.

Indonesia sets up state firm to take over coal, nickel and palm exports

2026-05-23

Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto announced a new regulation that will centralize export control for coal, palm oil and iron alloys under a newly registered state-owned enterprise starting in stages this year. The move, Prabowo said, aims to strengthen oversight and curb under-invoicing, transfer pricing and diversion of export proceeds, with global implications for suppliers and buyers.

Most of Maine’s county commissioners are aging, with younger challengers

2026-05-23

In Maine, many county commissioners are in their 60s and 70s, and some are serving into their 80s, according to reporting on the state’s commissioner class. As Lincoln County’s William Blodgett, 89, prepares to retire, Democrats are offering younger candidates—though local jobs that are part-time and often low-paid can make campaigns harder for working-age residents. Supporters of age limits in other races, including the U.S. Senate contest, are also drawing new attention to whether age should matter in public service.

Prosecutors drop charges against activists in Chicago immigration crackdown

2026-05-23

Chicago’s top federal prosecutor dropped remaining charges against four activists who protested outside a federal building during last year’s immigration crackdown, after a judge scrutinized allegations of grand jury misconduct. U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros dismissed the case against Andre Martin, Brian Straw, Michael Rabbitt and Kat Abughazaleh, saying he learned recently of the alleged misconduct reflected in redacted grand jury materials.

Travel industry condemns Mullin plan to pull customs officers from sanctuary airports

2026-05-23

The travel industry condemned Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin after he reiterated a threat to withdraw U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers from airports in “sanctuary cities,” a move the industry says could disrupt international flights. The U.S. Travel Association said Mullin confirmed in a meeting that he is considering the change, which the group and major airlines called detrimental to travel and tourism.

Trump applies Venezuela playbook to Cuba, but results may differ

2026-05-23

In a look at the Trump administration’s escalating pressure on Cuba, Associated Press reports that U.S. strategy is taking cues from its approach to Venezuela—oil-focused coercion, a larger military footprint, federal criminal charges, and repeated threats of intervention. But experts cited by AP said the outcomes may diverge because Cuba’s political and strategic conditions differ from Venezuela’s, including the role of Raúl Castro and the size and posture of U.S. forces.

Ona Judge escape remembered in Philadelphia and New Hampshire

2026-05-23

Advocates marked the 230th anniversary of Ona Judge’s escape from slavery on May 21, 1796, with events in Philadelphia and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. In Philadelphia, a rally at the President’s House site emphasized keeping exhibits and telling the full history, after panels were removed last month. In New Hampshire, a mural depicting Judge is set to be unveiled Saturday.

Connecticut sees sharp rise in anonymous written bill testimony

2026-05-23

Connecticut lawmakers have received a surge of written testimony during the 2026 legislative session, with a growing share submitted anonymously. The increase—despite a state system that lets submitters include a name, title and organization—is raising questions for lawmakers about who is behind the messages and what impact they have on hearings.

Trump veers off-topic in New York, touts Lawler SALT tax cuts

2026-05-22

President Donald Trump visited New York on Friday to support Rep. Mike Lawler’s re-election campaign, appearing at an event at Rockland Community College and touting the tax law he signed last year. The speech, meant to focus on the economy, quickly veered into topics including voter identification, crime in cities, transgender women in sports and the opposition party’s name, “Dumocrats,” before returning to taxes and take-home pay.

Massie loses GOP primary after Trump-backed challenger ousts incumbent

2026-05-22

Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie lost his Republican House primary on Tuesday, according to the Associated Press, after President Donald Trump backed and attacked his eventual replacement, Ed Gallrein. The defeat underscored Trump’s influence over primary outcomes in the party, coming after the president helped topple Sen. Bill Cassidy in Louisiana over the weekend.

GOP rift over Trump $1.8B settlement fund delays immigration bill

2026-05-22

Senate Republicans left Washington on Thursday without voting on a roughly $70 billion bill to fund immigration enforcement agencies, citing frustration with the White House and a dispute over whether to try to block a $1.776 billion settlement fund tied to the Justice Department’s resolution of a lawsuit by Trump allies. The delay followed a tense meeting with acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and growing anger within the GOP over Trump’s involvement in politics, including his endorsement in a Texas Senate primary runoff.

Barney Frank, liberal lawmaker and gay-rights trailblazer, dies at 86

2026-05-22

Barney Frank, a longtime Democratic congressman and a leading liberal credited with raising visibility for gay rights and helping shape major financial reforms, died May 20. He was 86. Frank’s former campaign manager Jim Segel said Frank died late Tuesday, and the congressman had entered hospice in April in Ogunquit, Maine, with congestive heart failure.

Trump immigration raids remind Rep. Mark Takano of WWII Japanese detentions

2026-05-22

Rep. Mark Takano said immigration raids in communities in Southern California have stirred memories of the World War II detention of his parents as “enemy aliens.” He said his father and mother were each sent as young children to incarceration sites after the U.S. forcibly relocated people of Japanese ancestry.

Progressive Chris Rabb wins Philadelphia House Democratic primary in a landslide

2026-05-22

State Rep. Chris Rabb won the Democratic nomination for a Philadelphia-based U.S. House seat by 15 percentage points over his nearest rival in Tuesday’s primary, overcoming endorsements from the mayor, the city’s Democratic Party, and most of Pennsylvania’s U.S. House delegation. Rabb, a progressive who assailed his own party for listening more to donors than voters, credited a grassroots movement inspired by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. No Republican sought the GOP nomination, making Rabb the presumptive replacement for retiring Rep. Dwight Evans.

Trump calls off AI executive order hours before scheduled signing

2026-05-22

President Donald Trump called off plans to sign a new executive order on artificial intelligence hours before a scheduled White House event, saying he worried the measure could slow U.S. efforts to compete with other countries in AI. He postponed the Oval Office event with tech industry executives after reviewing the order’s text, he said.

Tennessee man jailed over Charlie Kirk Facebook memes wins $835,000

2026-05-22

Tennessee officials will pay $835,000 to settle a lawsuit by a man jailed for more than a month over a Facebook post about conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Larry Bushart, a retired Perry County police officer, said his First Amendment rights were vindicated after felony charges were dropped in October.

Experts question deal granting Trump immunity from IRS audits

2026-05-22

The Internal Revenue Service has agreed to drop pending probes into whether Donald Trump properly paid federal taxes, resolving a lawsuit over the leak of his tax returns. Tax experts said the settlement’s broad immunity terms are unusual and could weaken public confidence in tax enforcement.

FDA vaping policy blindsided regulators; staffers say memo eased market rules

2026-05-22

Senior officials at the Food and Drug Administration’s tobacco center were blindsided by a decision that, according to staffers, would allow more unauthorized e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches onto the U.S. market. The guidance was posted days before former FDA Commissioner Marty Makary resigned, and staffers said enforcement officials learned about the changes only the night before the document was published. The Associated Press reported the episode Thursday.

Congress delays vote on ICE funding after GOP infighting flares

2026-05-22

Congress delayed a vote on immigration enforcement funding after Republican infighting disrupted a planned path to pass the measure through a reconciliation bill, NPR reported. House and Senate Republicans left for a weeklong recess without meeting President Trump’s June 1 deadline for the next three years of ICE funding.

Trump’s Latino vote gains face test as ICE raids and costs bite

2026-05-22

Phoenix voters who supported Donald Trump in 2024 are weighing whether to stick with him as immigration enforcement and the cost of living reshape their views. An Associated Press reporting trip in south Phoenix found some Trump supporters describing regret after seeing immigration raids and saying prices have squeezed household budgets. At the national level, polling cited by Pew Research Center shows a sharper drop in approval among Latinos who voted for Trump than among non-Latino voters.

Republicans break with Trump as Senate delays major budget vote

2026-05-22

President Donald Trump’s demand for a nearly $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” compensation fund for Jan. 6 defendants helped drive rare resistance from Republican senators this week, according to the Associated Press. Senate Republicans postponed a key vote on a roughly $70 billion budget package that would fuel Trump’s immigration and deportation operations through 2029, pushing the matter back to next month and past his June 1 deadline, AP reported.

Trump loosens refrigerant rules, framing move as lowering grocery costs

2026-05-22

The Trump administration loosened federal rules on refrigerants used in grocery-store cooling systems and air-conditioning equipment, the Environmental Protection Agency said on Thursday. President Donald Trump said the step would “substantially lower costs for consumers” by delaying restrictions on which refrigerants U.S. businesses and families can use.

Warsh sworn in as Fed chair in White House ceremony, Trump vows independence

2026-05-22

President Donald Trump oversaw the White House swearing-in of Kevin Warsh as the new Federal Reserve chair on Friday, calling for an economy-focused approach while insisting the central bank would remain independent. The ceremony also raised questions because Trump has pushed for greater influence over the Fed and had previously criticized Jerome Powell for resisting rate cuts.

House panel discusses TSA modernization as Trump seeks private screening

2026-05-22

House Homeland Security Committee members held a hearing on ways to modernize the Transportation Security Administration on May 20, as the Trump administration pushes for airport screening to be handled by private contractors at some airports. Lawmakers also focused on morale and pay after TSA officers went without pay during prior funding lapses. The panel heard from aviation and airport leaders as well as from the union that represents TSA workers.

House rejects bill to locate Smithsonian Women’s History Museum on National Mall

2026-05-22

The U.S. House on Thursday rejected a bill that would have authorized a new Smithsonian Women’s History Museum on the National Mall after Republicans revised the legislation to ensure transgender people are not included in exhibits. The bill lost 204-216, leaving the museum’s location and next steps uncertain, while Democrats said Republicans “traded” women’s representation for former President Donald Trump’s influence.

House Republicans delay Iran war powers vote as GOP struggles to find support

2026-05-22

House Republicans called off a House vote this week on a Democratic bill that would require President Donald Trump to withdraw from the war with Iran, pushing the planned vote to June. The House had scheduled the war powers measure, but GOP leaders declined to hold it after it became clear Republicans would not have the votes to defeat the bill.

Southern Republicans press redistricting after Voting Rights Act ruling

2026-05-22

Republicans in several Southern states are moving quickly to redraw congressional district maps before the 2026 midterm elections, capitalizing on a recent Supreme Court ruling that weakened protections for minority voters under the federal Voting Rights Act, the Associated Press reported.

Bipartisan senators press Hegseth to release $600M Ukraine, Baltic aid

2026-05-22

Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin and Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley led a bipartisan push on Friday to force Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to release $600 million in congressionally approved security aid for Ukraine and the Baltic states, funds that the Pentagon has left unspent since last year amid growing tensions over U.S. support for Kyiv.

Trump’s week in Washington mixes ballot-box wins with legislative headaches

2026-05-22

President Trump’s week in Washington ended with legislative setbacks and a warning from NPR’s political team about the unintended consequences of his political dominance. NPR reported that Trump-backed challengers won GOP primaries this week, but that House and Senate Republicans also went into early recess to avoid votes on Iran war powers and a $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund.

GOP senators delay immigration funding as anti-weaponization fund raises doubts

2026-05-22

Congress is set to leave for a weeklong recess without passing a Republican-backed plan to fund immigration enforcement for the next three years, NPR reported. NPR said some Senate Republicans withdrew support after President Donald Trump announced a separate $1.8 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund,” with expectations that any change in funding timelines depends on whether that issue is resolved.

Supreme Court dismisses Alabama bid to execute inmate with borderline ID

2026-05-22

The U.S. Supreme Court dismissed Alabama’s appeal seeking permission to execute an inmate found by lower courts to be intellectually disabled. The justices’ action on Thursday leaves in place rulings favorable to Joseph Clifton Smith, who has been on death row after a 1997 murder conviction.

Southern Republicans accelerate redistricting ahead of 2026 midterms

2026-05-22

Republican leaders in Tennessee, Alabama, Louisiana and South Carolina are moving quickly to redraw U.S. House districts before the 2026 midterm elections, citing a recent Supreme Court decision that weakens minority‑vote protections under the Voting Rights Act. The push follows former President Donald Trump’s urging that GOP‑controlled states reshape districts now to protect the party’s narrow House majority. Lawmakers say the new maps could add up to 15 Republican seats in seven states, while Democrats estimate a gain of six seats in two states.

Ex-Columbia student Mahmoud Khalil asks Supreme Court to intervene

2026-05-22

Former Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Khalil will ask the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene in his effort to block deportation after a federal appeals court declined to rehear his case. The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia voted 6-5 against a full-court review, according to his lawyers and the American Civil Liberties Union.

Trump DOJ says it removed Jan. 6 case releases as “partisan propaganda”

2026-05-22

The Trump administration’s Justice Department acknowledged it removed from its website news releases about criminal cases related to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot, calling the information “partisan propaganda.” The change comes as the department has moved to vacate some convictions and has created a $1.776 billion fund intended to compensate people it says were unjustly prosecuted.

Georgia GOP sets Senate runoff with Dooley vs. Collins; Bottoms wins Dems

2026-05-22

Georgia Republicans will hold runoffs to choose nominees for governor and U.S. Senate after the state’s primary failed to produce outright winners, the Associated Press reported. Former college football coach Derek Dooley advanced to face Rep. Mike Collins in the GOP Senate runoff, after Rep. Buddy Carter was eliminated, while Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and healthcare billionaire Rick Jackson advanced in the Republican governor primary.

Bipartisan senators press Hegseth to release Ukraine security aid funds

2026-05-22

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators has urged Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to act on delayed security aid for Ukraine and other eastern European allies, sending a letter calling for the funding to be disbursed. The senators cited a missed May 15 deadline for a Pentagon spending plan that had been promised after Hegseth said earlier that the Ukraine money was “released.”

Florida biologist Brittney Brown reaches $485,000 settlement over Kirk post

2026-05-22

Brittney Brown, a biologist at Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, has signed a $485,000 settlement after she was fired over a social media repost involving conservative activist Charlie Kirk after his death. The settlement, she said, covered backpay and damages and came as her case challenged how the agency disciplined employees for political speech.

Congress urges telecoms to bolster protections against cyberscams

2026-05-22

WASHINGTON — A powerful congressional committee is urging AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile to do more to protect Americans from scams, as investigators probe the role U.S. companies may play in a surge of cyber-enabled fraud. In a request sent Wednesday evening, committee leaders asked the carriers for information on data collection, monitoring efforts and actions against bad actors, warning that scam calls and texts are increasingly hard for customers to distinguish from legitimate messages.

David Brock Smith wins GOP primary for U.S. Senate in Oregon

2026-05-22

David Brock Smith won the Republican primary for U.S. Senate in Oregon on Friday, the Associated Press reported, setting up a November general election against Democratic incumbent Jeff Merkley. The state senator emerged from a field of seven candidates to challenge Merkley, who has held the seat since 2008.

Duggan suspends Michigan governor run, citing “toxic” Trump-era politics

2026-05-22

Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said Thursday he is suspending his independent campaign for Michigan governor, citing an increasingly “toxic” political climate linked to President Donald Trump’s war with Iran and rising gas prices. Duggan, who would have tried to replace term-limited Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, told The Associated Press it was “very hard to win” and that he sees no “likely path to win.” The Michigan primary is Aug. 4, with the general election Nov. 3.

Michigan House OKs bill giving Mackinac Island control of ferry rates

2026-05-22

The Michigan House on Thursday approved Senate Bill 304 to give Mackinac Island authority over ferry services, including fare pricing, parking and baggage handling, sending the measure to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The House passed the bill 91-16, with all opposition coming from Republicans, and it would take effect only if a majority of residents approve the charter amendment.

Paxton spotlights Trump’s endorsement in Texas Senate runoff vs. Cornyn

2026-05-22

Republican Ken Paxton is pressing his bid in the final days of the U.S. Senate Republican primary runoff against incumbent John Cornyn, leaning on President Donald Trump’s endorsement, according to a campaign stop near Austin on Thursday. Paxton told a small rally he didn’t know whether people noticed Trump’s endorsement, drawing applause, as the race draws national attention and large advertising spending.

Tuberville, Doug Jones set Alabama governor rematch; Senate, House races headed to runoffs

2026-05-22

Alabama voters on Tuesday set up a rematch between Republican incumbent-hopeful Tommy Tuberville and Democrat Doug Jones for governor, while GOP and Democratic nominees for an open U.S. Senate seat will be decided in June runoffs. Alabama also plans to void results in four congressional districts after redistricting litigation, triggering special primaries in August.

US sanctions Lebanese officials over Hezbollah influence

2026-05-22

U.S. Treasury announced sanctions on Thursday against Hezbollah-affiliated Lebanese parliamentarians, state security officials and allies, accusing them of trying to preserve the Iran-backed group’s influence over Lebanese institutions. The Treasury action also targeted former cabinet minister and senior Hezbollah figure Mohammed Fneish and other lawmakers, and it said it would continue pursuing officials it says infiltrated the Lebanese government.

First Big Bend border wall contracts awarded amid shifting, undisclosed changes

2026-05-22

Three federal contracts totaling more than $3.1 billion have been awarded for the first-ever construction of border walls in West Texas’s Big Bend region, but the Trump administration has disclosed few details about the project’s shifting route and timeline, according to reporting by Marfa Public Radio and the Associated Press.

Trump administration mandates green card applicants leave U.S. to apply abroad

2026-05-22

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced Friday that foreigners who are temporarily in the United States and wish to become lawful permanent residents must return to their home country to file a green‑card application, except in “extraordinary circumstances,” the agency said. The policy overturns a practice that for more than half a century let visa holders adjust status without leaving the country. Immigration experts warned the change could trap families and create a “catch‑22” for applicants from nations where U.S. consular services are unavailable.

Trump executive order boosts deep-sea mining growth, but future remains unclear

2026-05-22

The Associated Press reports that in the year since President Donald Trump signed an executive order to create a deep-sea mining industry, companies have raised money from investors and regulators have moved to fast-track permits. AP said at least nine companies have been in talks with the government for access to seabed minerals, including areas off American Samoa and Alaska. The report highlights the promise of commercial seabed mining alongside questions about company track records, unresolved plans for processing minerals, and whether the economics will work.

Democrats warn U.S. cell-location data rules miss White House, CIA sites

2026-05-22

A group of three congressional Democrats said Thursday that federal rules aimed at blocking foreign adversaries from buying cell-phone location data leave out some of the most sensitive government sites, including the White House and the CIA’s headquarters. They urged the Trump administration to close the gaps and create a broader “protection zone” covering Washington, D.C. rather than listing individual buildings.

Critics sue to block payouts from $1.776B “anti-weaponization” fund for Trump allies

2026-05-22

A coalition of President Donald Trump’s critics filed lawsuits seeking to stop payouts from a $1.776 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund” meant to compensate Trump allies they say were targeted by a “weaponized” government. The federal case was filed in Alexandria, Virginia, and attorneys are asking a court to halt the fund’s implementation and bar disbursements.

Maine county commissioners trend older as 87-year-old Democrat seeks Lincoln County seat

2026-05-22

Most of Maine’s county commissioners are in their 60s and 70s, according to an Associated Press review, a trend that is deepening as 89-year-old Lincoln County Commissioner William Blodgett prepares to step down at year’s end. Blodgett’s only major-party replacement candidate is Walter Voskian, an 87-year-old Democrat and former CIA officer who said his decades of national-security experience outweigh concerns about his age.

DNC chair Ken Martin faces calls to resign as autopsy fallout roils party

2026-05-22

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin confronted a fresh wave of resignation calls from elected officials and party operatives on Thursday, one day after the committee released a widely criticized post-election autopsy that party leaders had kept under wraps for months. The open dissent, led by Rep. Marc Veasey of Texas, exposed deepening turmoil inside the Democratic Party as it limps toward November's midterm elections.

Former prosecutor and acquitted professor sue to block $1.776B Trump 'anti-weaponization' fund

2026-05-22

A coalition of individuals who have faced legal action from the federal government — including a fired federal prosecutor and a university professor acquitted of assaulting officers during a protest — filed a lawsuit on Friday, May 22, 2026, seeking to halt a new $1.776 billion fund created by the Trump administration to compensate allies who claim they were victims of a weaponized government.

Connecticut sees record 43,800 written bill testimonies, 8,000 anonymous

2026-05-22

Written testimony submitted to the Connecticut General Assembly surged to more than 43,800 pieces during the 2026 legislative session, a nearly 250% increase from a decade earlier, with almost 8,000 of those submissions filed anonymously, the Associated Press reported Friday.

Trump replicates Venezuela playbook on Cuba, but experts see different outcome

2026-05-22

The Trump administration is employing the same pressure tactics against Cuba that it used against Venezuela — an oil blockade, a growing U.S. military presence, federal indictments and repeated threats of intervention — but analysts warn the countries' differences could produce dramatically different results.

New Oklahoma law aims to make criminal record expungement automatic

2026-05-22

A sweeping new Oklahoma law seeks to transform the state's criminal record expungement system from an application-based process to an automatic one, a change advocates say will remove barriers to housing and employment for hundreds of thousands of residents with past convictions.

Young Kentucky Republicans voice frustration with Trump presidency after Massie defeat

2026-05-22

A group of young Republicans gathered at a bar in Covington, Kentucky, told the Associated Press they have grown disillusioned with President Donald Trump’s second term, pointing to the war with Iran, the defeat of anti-establishment Rep. Thomas Massie in this week’s primary, and a sense that the Republican establishment they thought Trump would dismantle is instead tightening its grip.

DHS says ICE has no relationship with Paragon Solutions spyware maker

2026-05-22

The Department of Homeland Security told NPR that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has “no relationship” with spyware company Paragon Solutions. The clarification follows questions about whether ICE reactivated a previously paused Paragon contract and whether it complied with a 2023 executive order restricting federal agencies’ use of commercial spyware.

Rural North Carolina hospital closure highlights limits of $50B plan

2026-05-22

In Martin County, N.C., the shuttering of Martin General Hospital has left residents traveling long distances for emergency care and waiting longer in distant rooms. Debra Pierce said emergency crews from a neighboring town worked on her brother, Stanley Sears, for half an hour before he was taken to a far-off hospital. As North Carolina distributes money linked to Republicans’ proposed $50 billion rural health fund, local officials and health executives in the region say the money may not address the immediate need for reopening or higher-level emergency services.

Tulsi Gabbard resigns as director of national intelligence, cites husband’s illness

2026-05-22

Tulsi Gabbard resigned on Friday as President Donald Trump’s director of national intelligence, saying she needed to step away to support her husband as he battles cancer. In a resignation letter she posted on social media, Gabbard said she told Trump she would leave her job overseeing coordination of 18 intelligence agencies on June 30.

Trump says he may release tax returns after Justice Department deal

2026-05-22

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he may release his current tax returns after a legal team agreement with the Justice Department. The deal would permanently drop tax claims against Trump, his family and associates and would bar the government from pursuing or prosecuting current tax examinations tied to the case.

Judges in Maine and Wisconsin reject DOJ efforts to obtain voter rolls

2026-05-22

Federal judges in Maine and Wisconsin on Thursday dismissed U.S. Department of Justice lawsuits seeking detailed voter registration information, court filings described. The decisions come as the Trump administration has pursued similar demands in multiple states, arguing for access under federal civil-rights law.

EE. UU. acepta retirar reclamos fiscales contra Trump en acuerdo del IRS

2026-05-22

El gobierno de Estados Unidos aceptó retirar de forma permanente sus reclamos fiscales contra el presidente Donald Trump como parte de un acuerdo para poner fin a una demanda que él presentó contra el IRS por la filtración de sus declaraciones fiscales, según un documento divulgado por el Departamento de Justicia. El arreglo impide que el gobierno investigue o procese no solo a Trump, sino también a sus hijos y a la Organización Trump por auditorías fiscales actuales, de acuerdo con el texto.

Trump signs Take It Down Act aimed at deepfake and revenge porn abuse

2026-05-22

President Donald Trump signed the “Take It Down Act” on Monday, a bipartisan law that increases federal penalties for distributing non-consensual intimate imagery, including AI-created deepfakes. The measure also requires websites and social media platforms to remove such content within 48 hours of receiving notice from a victim.

Pa. can move ahead with broadband expansion after wage-dispute reversal

2026-05-22

Pennsylvania can move ahead with spending more than $700 million to expand high-speed internet in rural areas after federal officials dropped a condition tied to a dispute over state labor-law “prevailing wage” classifications. The change removes what could have delayed broadband funding meant to connect about 130,000 Pennsylvania homes and businesses.

Most of Maine’s county commissioners are aging as younger challengers emerge

2026-05-22

Maine’s county commissioners are largely in their 60s and 70s, with some serving into their 80s. In Lincoln County, 87-year-old Walter Voskian is poised to replace 89-year-old William Blodgett, while other counties are seeing younger candidates and appointees. The AP reports that the age gap in local government is now part of a broader debate over whether age should limit elected officials.

DNC faces fresh turmoil as Ken Martin confronts calls to resign

2026-05-22

One day after the Democratic National Committee released a botched autopsy report on the 2024 election, party leaders faced renewed pressure on Ken Martin to resign as chair. Several Democratic members of Congress and operatives said Martin mismanaged the report and failed to lay out a clear path forward for the party’s next steps. Martin apologized for his handling of the review and said he intends to keep leading.

Livestreamer 'Chud the Builder' charged with attempted murder as free speech debate erupts

2026-05-22

A Tennessee judge set a $1 million bond for white livestreamer Dalton Eatherly, who is charged with attempted murder after shooting Black man Joshua Fox outside the Montgomery County Courthouse in Clarksville on May 13. The case has sparked a national debate over whether Eatherly’s on‑camera antics constitute protected speech or illegal race‑baiting. Attorneys, civil‑rights experts and fellow creators are weighing in as the livestreamer raised more than $100,000 for his legal defense in a single day.

Where things stand on Big Bend border wall plans

2026-05-22

Confused about whether the Trump administration plans a new border wall in the Big Bend region? U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s latest plans call for 30-foot-high steel bollard walls along about 175 miles of the border in Hudspeth, Jeff Davis and Presidio counties, while CBP says it is not planning a similar wall inside Big Bend National Park.

Veterans group sues Trump VA for reinstating near-ban on abortion access

2026-05-22

An advocacy group has filed suit challenging a Veterans Affairs rule that reinstates near-ban abortion limits for veterans and certain family members who rely on VA healthcare, the group said. The lawsuit, filed Thursday, seeks to overturn the rule issued in the VA’s final regulation published Dec. 31.

As America turns 250, many Brits say Trump defines the U.S.

2026-05-22

As the United States marks 250 years of independence, a new Associated Press survey of Britons finds that many struggle to discuss the country without quickly bringing up President Donald Trump. In interviews across Britain, those with differing views of Trump nonetheless said the president shapes how they see America now.

Blanche at center of Republican firestorm over $1.8B fund

2026-05-22

WASHINGTON (AP) — Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche is at the center of a Republican firestorm over a $1.776 billion Justice Department fund meant to compensate people who say they were unjustly investigated and prosecuted. The fund, announced this week, also includes a guarantee of immunity from tax audits for President Donald Trump and his eldest sons, prompting Democrats and some Republicans to question whether Blanche is acting as the president’s personal lawyer rather than as the nation’s top law enforcement official.

California GOP primary pits Calvert and Kim in fight over Trump loyalty

2026-05-22

A contentious U.S. House Republican primary is underway in southeast California, where incumbents Ken Calvert and Young Kim are attacking each other over loyalty to President Donald Trump ahead of a June 2 vote. The race has been intensified by negative advertising on both sides in the newly redrawn district, which is also seen as pivotal to national House control.

Connecticut legislators see surge in written bill testimony, with more anonymity

2026-05-22

Public testimony submitted on proposed Connecticut bills has risen sharply in recent years, including during the 2026 legislative session, an Associated Press review found. More than 43,800 pieces of written testimony were submitted in 2026, nearly a 250% increase compared with 2016, and lawmakers say anonymous submissions complicate how they gauge who is weighing in.

DNC election autopsy faults Harris campaign, omits Biden run and Gaza

2026-05-22

The Democratic National Committee released a long-awaited autopsy report on its 2024 election loss, and the document’s internal findings fault parts of Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign planning and messaging. But the report also drew criticism for gaps that include the absence of any mention of “Gaza” or “Israel” and, as some Democrats noted, the lack of analysis of President Joe Biden’s decision to seek a second term before withdrawing.

DNC releases post-election autopsy after internal pressure on Ken Martin

2026-05-22

The Democratic National Committee released a 192-page post-election autopsy on Thursday, criticizing Kamala Harris’ 2024 campaign messaging and outreach, after Democratic officials pushed for years to see the report. DNC chair Ken Martin said the document was originally withheld and that he apologized for the delay. The autopsy’s release quickly sparked anger from party allies, including Dan Pfeiffer, who said Martin “must go.”

Ex-judges warn federal “micromanaging” is destabilizing Massachusetts immigration courts

2026-05-22

Former immigration judges in Massachusetts said federal changes since 2025 have led to judge terminations at the end of probation, pressure to follow agency priorities, and a shrinking asylum caseload, as appellate guidance shifts and immigration courts struggle with large removal backlogs. In interviews cited by The New Bedford Light and distributed by The Associated Press, judges described internal directives, procedural constraints, and concerns that the changes are making the system harder to manage.

Federal fine arts commission approves Trump’s proposed Washington triumphal arch

2026-05-22

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts approved the design for a 250-foot triumphal arch President Donald Trump wants built at an entrance to Washington, a key step in the project that does not set a construction timeline, the commission said Thursday. Trump told reporters he thought the vote was “fantastic,” and said, “we’re the only important and major city that doesn’t have one.”

Federal officials approve Dakota Access crossing segment near Standing Rock

2026-05-22

Federal officials approved the Dakota Access oil pipeline’s Missouri River crossing segment, ending a legal fight that stretched back to 2016 and 2017 protests near the North Dakota prairie. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said it granted a key easement so the pipeline can keep operating under added leak-detection and groundwater monitoring conditions.

Indonesia overhauls exports under Prabowo plan, shifting coal, palm oil control

2026-05-22

Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto announced a regulation that will shift exports of coal, palm oil and iron alloys to a new state-owned enterprise starting this year, with global supply-chain implications. The plan, presented to parliament Wednesday, requires private firms to hand over import and export transactions to the entity from June to August, with full management expected by September.

New law expands Oklahoma expungement, good-time credits and medical parole

2026-05-22

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt signed Senate Bill 2030 earlier this month to create a free online expungement request portal and an automatic expungement system aimed at clearing eligible records. The law also directs changes to good-time credit calculations and medical parole procedures under other 2026 reforms.

New York City to offer $50 World Cup tickets to residents via lottery

2026-05-22

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani said Thursday that 1,000 World Cup tickets costing $50 will be made available to New York City residents for seven matches at MetLife Stadium, with distribution through a lottery starting May 25. Mamdani said the city will take steps to curb scalping, including making the tickets non-transferable and verifying residency before tickets are issued.

New York law could ban additive used in many pizza and bagels

2026-05-22

A bill passed by New York lawmakers would ban potassium bromate, an additive used by some flour makers to speed dough production and improve texture for pizza and bagels, and it now awaits Gov. Kathy Hochul’s signature. Bakers, pizza shops and bagel sellers are already preparing for changes that could affect cost, workflow and what they call the city’s iconic taste and chew.

Ona Judge escape from slavery marked with rallies and new memorials in Pa. and N.H.

2026-05-22

Advocates marked the 230th anniversary of Ona Judge’s escape from slavery by George Washington with events in Philadelphia and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. In Philadelphia, a Thursday rally honored Judge on what the city has declared Ona Judge Day, even as federal property exhibit changes linked to President Donald Trump face legal uncertainty.

RFK Jr. fires leaders of task force that sets screening coverage rules

2026-05-22

The Trump administration fired the two doctors who chaired the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a panel that determines which preventive services most insurance plans must cover for free. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sent letters dated May 11 terminating the leaders’ appointments immediately, before their multiyear terms end, according to the letters. The move comes as the task force has been sidelined for much of the past year, with scheduled public meetings postponed and updates left in limbo.

Trump applies Venezuela playbook to Cuba, but results may differ

2026-05-22

The Trump administration’s strategy against Cuba is drawing comparisons to the “Venezuela playbook,” including a focus on pressure campaigns, legal charges and the buildup of U.S. military capacity in the region, according to experts cited by the Associated Press. Experts said the similarities do not guarantee similar outcomes, citing differences in Cuba’s political structure and the scale of U.S. forces.

Trump’s health department expands AI use to police healthcare fraud

2026-05-22

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said it will expand its use of artificial intelligence to review audit reports submitted by states and other recipients of federal health dollars, aiming to tamp down fraud and save money. HHS said it will use ChatGPT and other AI tools to analyze audits from all 50 states on an ongoing basis. The department also sent letters to governors and treasurers notifying them of tougher enforcement for chronic audit noncompliance.

Tuesday primaries show Trump’s sway, Shapiro’s wins in key races

2026-05-22

Tuesday’s primaries across several states left party insiders focused on two themes: President Donald Trump’s continuing influence over Republican nominees and Democratic Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s strength in supporting congressional challengers. In Kentucky, Trump-backed newcomer Ed Gallrein defeated Rep. Thomas Massie in the Republican House primary, while in Georgia two candidates aligned with party figures on different sides of Trump’s 2020 claims both lost.

Turmoil shuts San Francisco immigration court, leaving asylum cases in limbo

2026-05-22

San Francisco’s main federal immigration court shut down May 1 after most of its judges were fired, retired or resigned during a White House purge, an Associated Press report said. The remaining two judges will handle cases from a different federal building in the city that is part of an immigration court across the bay in Concord, where security has tightened as filings shifted. Attorneys and court insiders said the move has disrupted asylum proceedings and increased uncertainty for people seeking protection.

Senate advances bill aimed at ending Iran war as Cassidy flips

2026-05-21

The U.S. Senate advanced legislation Tuesday that would require President Donald Trump to withdraw from the Iran war, drawing fresh Republican opposition. The measure passed 50–47 after Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy—endorsed by Trump’s party in a primary loss—switched his vote for the first time.

GOP rift over Trump $1.8B settlement fund delays immigration bill

2026-05-21

Senate Republicans left Washington without voting Thursday on a roughly $70 billion bill to fund immigration enforcement agencies, as frustration grew over whether to block a new $1.8 billion settlement fund tied to compensating Trump allies. The dispute followed a Justice Department announcement this week and a tense meeting with acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, Democratic and Republican leaders said.

Trump postpones AI executive order hours before signing over fears of slowing US tech lead

2026-05-21

President Donald Trump postponed the signing of an executive order on artificial intelligence hours before a White House ceremony Thursday, saying he feared the measure could weaken the United States’ lead over China in AI technology. The abrupt decision came after Trump reviewed the order’s text and decided it could hurt the domestic tech industry, according to a person familiar with the deliberations.

Trump postpones signing of AI executive order over tech edge concerns

2026-05-21

President Donald Trump called off plans to sign an executive order on artificial intelligence hours before a scheduled White House ceremony, saying he was concerned the measure could weaken the United States’ edge in AI. Trump told reporters he was postponing the Oval Office event because he did not like what he saw in the order’s text.

Barney Frank, liberal lawmaker and gay rights pioneer, dies at 86

2026-05-21

Barney Frank, the longtime Democratic congressman who became the first incumbent lawmaker on Capitol Hill to marry a same-sex partner and a prominent national advocate for gay rights, died late Tuesday at age 86, according to his former campaign manager and close friend Jim Segel.

Trump veers off-topic at New York rally, touts tax cuts amid midterm push

2026-05-21

SUFFERN, N.Y. — President Donald Trump used a campaign-style rally in a competitive New York congressional district on Friday to test his midterm economic message, but he veered repeatedly off-script, touching on voter ID, crime, transgender athletes, and the Democratic Party before circling back to tax cuts.

IRS Drops Trump Tax Audits in Settlement That Experts Call Unprecedented

2026-05-21

The Internal Revenue Service has agreed to drop all pending investigations into whether President Donald Trump paid his fair share of federal taxes as part of a legal settlement, a move tax law experts described as highly unusual and possibly without precedent. The agreement, reached on Tuesday, resolves a lawsuit Trump filed against the agency over the leak of his tax returns, placing the president in the rare position of securing immunity from a tax authority within his own administration.

Trump veers off economy message during New York visit for Rep. Mike Lawler

2026-05-21

President Donald Trump traveled to the Hudson Valley region of New York on Friday to promote the tax law he signed last year and to support Republican Rep. Mike Lawler ahead of November elections. The event at Rockland Community College was framed as an economics message, but Trump veered off-topic at the start, talking about voter identification, crime in cities, transgender women in sports and using “Dumocrats” for Democrats. Trump and Lawler emphasized the law’s state and local tax, or SALT, changes as they sought to counter slumping approval ratings on the economy.

Key figure in Minnesota fraud case gets nearly 42 years in prison

2026-05-21

A federal judge in Minneapolis on Thursday sentenced Aimee Bock, the former head of the nonprofit Feeding Our Future, to nearly 42 years in prison for her role in a $250 million fraud scheme tied to pandemic-era federal food aid. Prosecutors said her operation ran “the single largest COVID-19 fraud scheme in the country,” and federal authorities said the case helped spur a wider crackdown on immigration and social-services fraud. Bock, 45, apologized in court, saying, “I understand I failed. I failed the public, my family, everyone.”

Tennessee man jailed over Charlie Kirk Facebook post wins $835,000 settlement

2026-05-21

A Tennessee man jailed for more than a month over Facebook memes about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has reached a $835,000 settlement with Perry County and law enforcement officials. Larry Bushart, a 61-year-old retired police officer, spent 37 days in jail before authorities dropped a felony charge, according to court filings described in the settlement announcement.

House rejects bipartisan women's museum bill after GOP adds trans exhibit ban

2026-05-21

The House rejected a bill Thursday that would have authorized a new Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum on the National Mall, after Republican leaders inserted language barring transgender people from being included in the exhibits. The 204-216 vote turned a measure that had broad bipartisan support into a partisan fight over cultural policy.

House GOP calls off vote on Iran war resolution as support slips

2026-05-21

House Republicans on Thursday shelved a planned vote on legislation that would force President Donald Trump to withdraw from the war with Iran, acknowledging they lacked the votes to defeat the measure. The delay pushes action into June and marks the clearest sign yet of eroding Republican support for a conflict the president launched more than two months ago without congressional authorization.

Planned Parenthood to offer “just in case” abortion pills in two states

2026-05-21

Planned Parenthood will launch an advance provision program that allows people in Washington and Hawaii to get abortion pills mifepristone and misoprostol ahead of an anticipated pregnancy. The initiative, shared exclusively with NPR, will start Thursday and is designed to stock the medication for later use if someone chooses to end an early pregnancy.

Lawsuit accuses Arkansas group of rejecting land buyer over ancestry

2026-05-21

A federal lawsuit filed in Arkansas says a woman was denied the chance to buy land in an Ozarks development because of her Jewish ancestry and because her husband is Black and their children are biracial. The suit names Return to the Land and its Ozarks chapter, saying the group seeks to create “all-white communities” and is in violation of federal and state fair housing and civil rights laws.

Trump faces dissent from a small but growing group of Hill Republicans

2026-05-21

WASHINGTON (AP) — A small but steadily growing group of Republican lawmakers known as the “YOLO caucus” is breaking more often with President Donald Trump, potentially complicating his congressional agenda as the GOP’s majority remains narrow. Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, who lost his primary to a Trump-backed challenger, reversed himself on legislation involving the war in Iran and voted with Democrats to rein in U.S. military action, according to AP.

Senate Republicans defy Trump, shelve $70B budget over Jan. 6 compensation fund

2026-05-21

WASHINGTON — Senate Republicans, pushed to a breaking point by President Donald Trump’s demand for a $1.776 billion fund for Jan. 6 rioters, refused to advance the party’s $70 billion immigration and deportation budget package this week, leaving the GOP’s top legislative priority in shambles and missing Trump’s June 1 deadline.

US sanctions Lebanese lawmakers, security officials over Hezbollah influence

2026-05-21

The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions Thursday on a group of Hezbollah-affiliated parliamentarians, a former cabinet minister, and two sitting Lebanese state security officials, accusing them of preserving the Iran-backed militant group’s influence over state institutions and obstructing disarmament efforts.

All-women Senate delegation heads to the Arctic to reassure US allies

2026-05-21

A bipartisan all-women delegation of eight U.S. senators, led by Republican Lisa Murkowski and Democrat Jeanne Shaheen, departed for a tour of Arctic nations on May 22, aiming to reassure allies unsettled by the Trump administration’s confrontational posture in the region.

All-women Senate delegation heads to Arctic to reassure allies

2026-05-21

A bipartisan delegation of eight U.S. senators — all women — departed for a tour of Arctic nations Thursday, seeking to reassure allies unsettled by President Donald Trump’s confrontational stance in the region. Led by Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), the group will visit four Arctic countries, observe military operations, and travel to the remote Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, where escorts are needed to avoid polar bears.

House committee weighs TSA privatization as officers endure unpaid work during shutdowns

2026-05-21

A bipartisan House Homeland Security hearing on Wednesday highlighted plans to privatize airport screening at roughly 250 smaller U.S. airports while Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers have faced weeks of work without pay during recent government shutdowns. Committee Chairman Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R‑NY) said TSA officers logged a total of 119 shutdown‑impacted days between the 2025 and 2026 shutdowns, amounting to roughly 40 % of the fiscal year, yet continued to carry out one of the nation’s most critical security missions. Lawmakers also confronted President Donald Trump’s FY 2027 budget proposal, which would allocate $477.3 million for private contractors to take over screening at the targeted airports and cut more than 4,500 TSA positions to save $529.3 million in compensation and benefits. Critics warned that the move could jeopardize aviation safety and undermine the morale of a workforce already strained by pay uncertainty.

Texas Democrats seek to block antisemitic-views candidate in runoff

2026-05-21

Democrats are trying to prevent Maureen Galindo from winning the Democratic nomination in Texas’ 35th Congressional District runoff Tuesday, after accusing her of repeatedly expressing antisemitic views. Galindo is running against Johnny Garcia, and Democrats have said Republicans helped back her campaign.

Supreme Court dismisses Alabama bid to execute inmate with borderline ID

2026-05-21

The U.S. Supreme Court dismissed Alabama’s appeal on Thursday in the case of a death-row inmate found by lower courts to have intellectual disability. The court’s action left in place lower-court rulings barring the state from executing Joseph Clifton Smith, who has been on death row since 1997.

House defeats Smithsonian women’s museum bill after GOP adds trans ban

2026-05-21

The U.S. House of Representatives voted 204‑216 on May 21 to reject a bill that would have authorized a Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum on the National Mall. Republicans rewrote the measure to bar any depiction of transgender people, inserting language that defines the museum’s scope as preserving the experiences of “biological women.” The amendment, championed by Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, also gave President Donald Trump the authority to choose the museum’s site, prompting Democratic leaders to denounce the changes as a culture‑war stunt.

More Republicans back Trump on immigration than economy, poll finds

2026-05-21

Republicans’ approval of President Donald Trump’s handling of the economy has fallen since February, an AP-NORC poll released May 20 finds, even as many GOP voters continue to support his approach. At the same time, the poll finds Trump’s approval rating on immigration is higher among Republicans than his approval on the economy.

US sanctions Lebanese officials over Hezbollah influence, Treasury says

2026-05-21

US Treasury announced Thursday sanctions on Hezbollah-affiliated Lebanese lawmakers, security officials and allies, accusing them of seeking to preserve Hezbollah’s influence over Lebanese state institutions and to obstruct disarmament efforts. The move targets sitting security officials for the first time, and includes former cabinet minister Mohammed Fneish and Hezbollah-linked parliamentarians. The announcement came amid ongoing low-level talks in Washington aimed at ending the war between Israel and Hezbollah.

Congress urges AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile to do more to curb cyberscams

2026-05-21

WASHINGTON — A powerful congressional committee urged AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile to do more to protect Americans from scams, pressing the telecoms to share information about how they collect data, monitor for fraud and cybercrime, and respond to bad actors. The request comes as lawmakers widen an investigation into the role U.S. companies play in a surge of cyberscams that cost Americans an estimated $200 billion in 2024.

Dooley advances to Georgia GOP Senate runoff; Bottoms wins Democratic nod

2026-05-21

Georgia Republicans will hold runoffs for U.S. Senate and governor after Tuesday’s primary left no winners, with former college football coach Derek Dooley facing Rep. Mike Collins for the Republican Senate nomination. Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms won the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, setting up a June 16 runoff between Burt Jones and Rick Jackson for the GOP slot.

Florida biologist fired over Charlie Kirk post wins $485,000 settlement

2026-05-21

Florida officials will pay $485,000 to a biologist who was fired by the state Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission after she reposted a meme about conservative activist Charlie Kirk on social media following his death, the biologist and an attorney said Thursday. Brittney Brown reached a settlement with agency directors that includes backpay, damages and attorney costs, according to the lawsuit.

Republicans weigh dropping $1B White House security plan tied to Trump ballroom

2026-05-21

Republican senators are considering whether to drop a proposal for $1 billion in security funding for the White House complex and President Donald Trump’s ballroom after it failed to build enough support in the Senate. The plan was pushed alongside an immigration enforcement package that Republicans are trying to advance through a budget process, but lawmakers including Sen. John Kennedy and Sen. Thom Tillis have questioned the cost and demanded more detail.

Rubio heads to NATO meeting in Sweden as allies fret about U.S. moves

2026-05-21

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to a NATO foreign ministers meeting in Sweden on Friday, the State Department said May 19, as European allies weigh U.S. troop changes and Trump’s past comments about the alliance. Rubio is also scheduled to travel to India after the NATO meeting to meet with officials and counterparts from the Quad.

Trump says he'll send 5,000 more troops to Poland, stirring confusion

2026-05-21

President Donald Trump said the United States will send an additional 5,000 troops to Poland, upending recent signals that Washington would be drawing down in Europe. The announcement has prompted U.S. defense officials to express confusion and has left NATO allies seeking clarity about whether the Pentagon’s shifting troop plans include further reductions.

Tuberville and Doug Jones set Alabama governor rematch; GOP Senate runoff next

2026-05-21

Alabama voters have set up a rematch for governor between Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville and former Sen. Doug Jones, while GOP and Democratic candidates in an open U.S. Senate race will face June runoff elections. The governor’s race will again pair the two former rivals, after both won their party primaries this week.

Tuesday primaries show Trump’s reach in GOP contests and Shapiro’s clout

2026-05-21

President Donald Trump’s endorsement helped dislodge Rep. Thomas Massie in Kentucky and shaped Republican contests across Georgia, Alabama and other states, according to takeaways from Tuesday’s primaries. On the Democratic side, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro backed four congressional candidates who won their nominations, while Alabama’s primaries saw parts of the ballot voided after court-related redistricting moves.

Blanche at center of Republican firestorm over $1.8B fund

2026-05-21

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has drawn sharp Republican criticism after approving a nearly $1.8 billion fund intended to compensate President Donald Trump’s allies for what the administration calls political prosecutions — a move that has galvanized GOP discontent and raised new questions about Blanche’s independence from the president he once represented as a personal attorney.

Veterans advocacy group sues Trump VA over reinstated near-ban on abortion access

2026-05-21

A veterans advocacy group filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration on May 21, 2026, seeking to overturn a Department of Veterans Affairs rule that reinstates a near-total ban on abortion services for veterans and their family members. The suit, filed by Minority Veterans of America, argues the VA adopted the rule without citing medical evidence or other justifications, in violation of the Administrative Procedures Act.

Researchers say Trump administration is finding new ways to punish science

2026-05-21

U.S. researchers say Trump administration funding changes have emptied research labs and slowed or halted parts of biomedical science, even after Congress restored some money earlier this year. In interviews for NPR, Harvard computational biologist Sean Eddy described losing federal support and receiving an NIH letter stating his work was of “absolutely no value to the US taxpayer,” while other researchers said grants and NIH forecasts have failed to materialize.

Fine Arts Commission approves Trump’s proposed 250-foot Washington arch design

2026-05-21

The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts approved the design for a triumphal arch President Donald Trump wants built at an entrance to Washington, a key step in the project’s process that does not set a construction timeline. At the White House, Trump said the commission’s vote was “fantastic,” adding that “we’re the only important and major city that doesn’t have one.”

Deaths at Michigan women’s prison renew concerns over medical care

2026-05-21

Michigan Department of Corrections confirmed that Rebecca Fackler, 57, died Sunday at the Huron Valley Correctional Facility, days after another inmate, Khaira Howard, 28, died, renewing scrutiny of medical care and conditions at the state’s only women’s prison in Ypsilanti. The department said it does not suspect foul play and that staff and emergency medical services performed life-saving measures in both cases. Attorneys and lawmakers said the deaths are the latest in what they describe as long-running failures tied to staffing, treatment access and facility conditions.

Former Detroit Mayor Duggan suspends Michigan governor run

2026-05-21

Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said Thursday he is suspending his campaign for Michigan governor, citing an increasingly “toxic” political climate tied to President Donald Trump’s war with Iran and rising gas prices. Duggan, a longtime Democrat running as an independent, said it has become “very hard to win,” with Democrats he expected to back him galvanizing against what is happening in Washington.

Trump relaxes refrigerant rule in bid to address grocery costs

2026-05-21

The Trump administration on Thursday loosened federal rules requiring grocery stores and air-conditioning companies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from cooling equipment, a step that President Donald Trump said would help lower grocery costs. The move relaxes Biden-era restrictions on hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs, emitted by refrigerators and other appliances.

Young Kentucky Republicans voice growing frustration with Trump presidency

2026-05-21

Over a dozen young Republicans gathered at a Covington, Kentucky, bar this month and described their disillusionment with Donald Trump's presidency, saying they still support his party but cannot wait for him to leave office. The group, ranging in age from their 20s to mid-30s, said they feel abandoned by a Republican establishment they once hoped Trump would dismantle and that his administration has instead sustained.

Trump raises new military threat against Cuba as Rubio doubts diplomacy

2026-05-21

President Donald Trump said he would be “happy” to order U.S. military intervention in Cuba, telling reporters Thursday that previous presidents had considered such action for decades, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed doubt that diplomacy can succeed with the island nation.

Judges in Maine and Wisconsin reject DOJ efforts to obtain voter rolls

2026-05-21

Federal judges in Maine and Wisconsin on Thursday dismissed lawsuits filed by the U.S. Department of Justice that sought to compel the states to hand over detailed voter registration information. The rulings add to a string of defeats for the Trump administration’s campaign to force states to disclose voter rolls, with judges having rejected similar requests in at least seven other states.

Fine Arts Commission approves design for Trump's 250-foot Washington arch

2026-05-21

The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts approved the design for the 250-foot triumphal arch that President Donald Trump wants built in the nation's capital, a key procedural step that does not guarantee construction begins soon. The vote on Thursday came despite overwhelming public opposition to the project, one of several the president is pursuing to leave his mark on Washington's monumental landscape.

Ohio data center tax break cost $1.6 billion in 2025, dwarfing forecasts

2026-05-21

The cost of Ohio’s sales tax exemption for data centers reached $1.6 billion in 2025, more than 11 times what state budget forecasters had projected, newly released data from the Ohio Department of Taxation show. The exemption, which shields big tech companies from paying the state’s 5.75% sales tax on equipment and construction, also cost $555 million in 2024—four times the initial estimate—and stripped $166.8 million from local sales tax collections that year.

Indonesia launches major trade takeover for coal, palm oil and iron alloys

2026-05-21

JAKARTA, Indonesia — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced on Wednesday that a newly formed state-owned enterprise will assume control of all exports of thermal coal, palm oil and iron alloys by September, a sweeping state takeover that analysts say could shake global commodity markets.

HHS expands use of AI to police state health audits for fraud

2026-05-21

The Department of Health and Human Services announced Thursday it is expanding its use of artificial intelligence to scrutinize audit reports from all 50 states, aiming to detect fraud and waste in federal health spending, according to the official leading the program.

DNC releases 2024 election autopsy criticizing Harris campaign

2026-05-21

The Democratic National Committee released a long-delayed 192-page autopsy of the 2024 presidential election on Thursday, concluding that Democratic nominee Kamala Harris “wrote off rural America” and lacked sufficient “negative firepower” to effectively counter Donald Trump. The Associated Press reported that DNC Chair Ken Martin shared the document only after facing intense internal pressure from Democratic operatives frustrated with the timing and transparency of the committee's post-election review.

DNC releases 2024 election autopsy with disclaimer on party verification

2026-05-21

The Democratic National Committee released its 192-page autopsy of the party's 2024 presidential election loss on Thursday, attaching a bold disclaimer to each page stating the committee cannot verify the document's underlying claims. DNC Chair Ken Martin published the long-delayed report after initially withholding it to avoid distracting midterm campaigning, later saying he kept it in reserve because the analysis was shoddily prepared.

Federal officials grant final easement for Dakota Access pipeline crossing

2026-05-21

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers granted final approval Thursday for the Dakota Access oil pipeline to operate its Missouri River crossing, concluding a decade-long regulatory and legal battle sparked by widespread protests in North Dakota. The pipeline will continue running under new monitoring conditions.

Indonesia tightens control over key commodities in major trade takeover

2026-05-21

The Indonesian government announced Wednesday that a newly created state-owned enterprise will take over all exports of coal, palm oil and iron alloys by September, a sudden move analysts described as a hostile takeover of major commodity industries set to ripple across global supply chains.

U.S. orders passenger to stay in hantavirus quarantine, sparking dispute

2026-05-21

A U.S. federal quarantine order has required an American passenger to remain confined after returning from a cruise where a hantavirus outbreak sickened passengers, NPR reported. The passenger, Angela Perryman, said in an interview that she feels “betrayed” and plans to challenge the order in court.

Education Dept hires for student aid after firing thousands

2026-05-21

The U.S. Department of Education fired thousands of workers last year, but the agency’s Office of Federal Student Aid is now adding about 380 new employees, according to internal documents obtained by NPR. The hires come as the Education Department seeks to shift some federal student-aid work to other agencies through new interagency agreements.

Catholic diocese fights federal bid to seize land for border wall

2026-05-21

A Catholic diocese is challenging a federal eminent domain lawsuit seeking to take some land associated with Mount Cristo Rey, which the diocese calls a holy site. Federal officials say the land is needed for additional border wall infrastructure, while the diocese argues the seizure would burden the free exercise of religion.

Judges reject DOJ push for detailed voter rolls in Maine, Wisconsin

2026-05-21

Federal judges in Maine and Wisconsin on Thursday dismissed lawsuits by the U.S. Department of Justice that sought to compel the states to turn over detailed voter registration information. The rulings add to a series of defeats for the Trump administration’s efforts to obtain voter-roll data, including in other states where judges rejected similar requests.

Former prosecutor charged with sending to self sealed Jack Smith report

2026-05-21

A former federal prosecutor in Florida has been charged with sending to her personal email a special counsel report describing President Donald Trump’s handling of classified documents, according to an indictment unsealed this week. Prosecutors said the report was subject to a judge’s order keeping it sealed and that she altered the file name before emailing it.

As America hits 250, many Brits say one man defines it: Trump

2026-05-21

Brits marked the United States’ 250th anniversary with a familiar refrain: many say President Donald Trump defines how they view America. In interviews across Britain, people who admire the U.S. still often begin with Trump when asked what America is like now. (Associated Press)

Trump discloses thousands of stock trades tied to policy and defense

2026-05-21

Donald Trump disclosed thousands of stock trades in a report filed with a federal ethics agency, according to the Associated Press. The disclosure includes purchases in companies that could be affected by the administration’s decisions, including Nvidia after Trump approved its chips for sale to China. The report also lists holdings and trades tied to U.S. defense suppliers.

Massachusetts lawsuit alleges state schools segregate Black and Latino students

2026-05-21

A lawsuit filed Wednesday in Massachusetts state court alleges that the state’s school‑assignment rules legally segregate Black and Latino students into high‑poverty districts, violating their right to an adequate education. The suit, brought by nine students and the civil‑rights group Lawyers for Civil Rights, targets the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for maintaining a system that channels students of color into low‑opportunity schools. Plaintiffs argue the policy perpetuates disparities in graduation and college‑matriculation rates.

Colorado Democrats censure Polis over commutation of Tina Peters

2026-05-21

Colorado Democrats voted to censure Gov. Jared Polis after he commuted the prison sentence of Tina Peters, a former county clerk convicted for election computer-system tampering. The party said the commutation sent a warning only if election tampering carries consequences, and Polis defended the decision as based on the case record.

Proposed ban on potassium bromate could force New York pizza, bagel changes

2026-05-21

New York lawmakers have passed a bill that would prohibit a flour additive used to speed up dough and make New York-style pizza and bagels. The measure, which would be signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, is expected to spark changes for pizzerias and bagel shops statewide if it becomes law. The debate over the additive, potassium bromate, pits concerns about health risks against worries about cost and product identity.

Trump-Backed Gallrein Ousts Massie in Kentucky GOP Primary

2026-05-21

Ed Gallrein, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, defeated U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie in the Kentucky Republican primary. The race, which was the most expensive U.S. House primary in history, highlighted Trump's continued influence within the GOP.

Trump health department expands AI use to police audits for fraud

2026-05-21

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said it will use ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence tools to analyze audit reports submitted by states and other federal health-dollar recipients. HHS said the move is meant to reduce fraud risks and save the government money, including by tightening how audit noncompliance is handled.

Soros-backed Open Society Foundations pledges $300 million for U.S. democracy

2026-05-21

Open Society Foundations said it will invest $300 million over the next five years in U.S. democracy initiatives aimed at defending democratic rights and advancing economic security. The pledge came as the Trump administration and allies have accused the Soros family of promoting division, including by targeting nonprofits. “We are continuing our work unabated. We will not be intimidated into silence,” managing director Laleh Ispahani said.

Vance targets Ohio in Medicaid fraud crackdown

2026-05-21

Vice President JD Vance said he is directing President Donald Trump’s anti-fraud task force to focus on Medicaid fraud in Ohio, a shift that GOP candidates say could reshape the state’s political contest. The announcement came days after a conservative outlet reported alleged abuses in Ohio’s Medicaid-funded home health program.

DNC releases post-election autopsy criticizing Harris and Ken Martin

2026-05-21

The Democratic National Committee on Thursday released a long-awaited 2024 post-election autopsy that criticizes Kamala Harris for “writ[ing] off rural America” and urges more aggressive negative messaging against Donald Trump. The report, released only after internal pressure, also drew fresh scrutiny of DNC chair Ken Martin’s handling of the document and its rollout.

UN General Assembly backs ICJ climate ruling despite U.S. opposition

2026-05-21

The U.N. General Assembly voted overwhelmingly to endorse an International Court of Justice climate advisory opinion, despite recent diplomatic efforts by the United States to derail the measure. The nonbinding resolution was approved Wednesday, 141-8 with 28 abstentions, with the United States among those voting against it.

Prosecutors drop charges against Chicago activists in immigration case

2026-05-21

Chicago’s top federal prosecutor dismissed remaining charges against four activists who protested outside a federal building during last year’s immigration crackdown after a judge raised questions about alleged grand jury misconduct by the prosecutor’s office, the Associated Press reported.

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy calls special session for LNG bill Thursday

2026-05-21

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy ordered lawmakers to convene for a special session Thursday in Juneau to consider a natural gas line bill, a move made one day after the deadline for the regular session. The House and Senate had been working Tuesday on different versions of the gas-line legislation before shifting back to committee and procedural steps.

11 most endangered U.S. historic places include Stonewall and Women’s rights park

2026-05-21

The National Trust for Historic Preservation on Wednesday released its annual list of 11 of the country’s most endangered historic places, themed around the principle that “everyone is created equal.” The list for America’s 250th anniversary includes sites tied to equality movements such as the Stonewall National Monument, the President’s House Site and the Women’s Rights National Historical Park.

AP revisits 1996 account of Cuban jets shooting down exile planes

2026-05-21

The Associated Press on Saturday republished a 1996 report describing how Cuban fighter jets shot down two small planes flown by members of the Cuban exile group Brothers to the Rescue from Miami in international waters off Havana. The report said U.S. officials, including President Bill Clinton, condemned the shootdown and ordered the U.S. military to protect search-and-rescue efforts. It also said one pilot returned and told his wife he had seen survivors in the water.

DNC election autopsy report raises questions over Harris and Gaza omissions

2026-05-21

The Democratic National Committee released a long-awaited autopsy report on the 2024 election on Thursday, with a disclaimer that the DNC could not verify many assertions. The report’s takeaways, as summarized by the Associated Press, say the Biden White House did not position Vice President Kamala Harris for the campaign and that Democrats did not mount negative messaging against former President Donald Trump at the scale of Republicans’ attacks.

Democrats warn data-broker rules miss key Washington sites, including CIA

2026-05-21

A trio of congressional Democrats warned that new rules aimed at stopping foreign governments from buying Americans’ phone-location data include gaps that leave sensitive federal sites unprotected. In a letter, Sens. Ron Wyden and Martin Heinrich and Rep. Sara Jacobs urged the Trump administration to fix those oversights and expand the approach to cover the entire Washington, D.C., region.

Federal officials approve Dakota Access oil pipeline easement in North Dakota

2026-05-21

Federal officials approved a key easement allowing the Dakota Access oil pipeline to continue operating its Missouri River crossing in North Dakota, a decision that comes nearly a decade after the Standing Rock protests. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said the pipeline will keep operating but with conditions focused on leak detection and groundwater monitoring.

James Murdoch deal to buy New York Magazine and Vox Media brands

2026-05-21

Media scion James Murdoch has struck a deal with Vox Media to acquire New York magazine, the Vox Media Podcast Network and the Vox editorial brand, according to a report by the Associated Press. The transaction, expected to close within weeks, will be structured through James Murdoch’s Lupa Systems, which will acquire about half of Vox Media’s divisions.

Montana Land Board overhauls land-swap process after yearslong dispute

2026-05-21

The Montana Land Board voted Monday to overhaul how it evaluates land-swap proposals, a process used to exchange state trust land for private land of equal or greater value. State Auditor James Brown presented the changes, saying they reduce bureaucracy and add comment opportunities, while opponents criticized the limited public notice. The board approved Brown’s proposal in a 4-0 vote, with Gov. Greg Gianforte abstaining after his motion for a 30-day comment period failed.

Ohio data center sales-tax exemption cost $1.6 billion in 2025

2026-05-21

Ohio’s sales-tax exemption for large data centers cost the state $1.6 billion in lost revenue in 2025, according to updated “actuals” shared by the Ohio Department of Taxation. The estimate is far higher than what state tax forecasters projected when lawmakers built the state budget.

RFK Jr. fires leaders of task force setting preventive care guidelines

2026-05-21

The Trump administration has fired two leaders of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an influential panel that reviews evidence and helps determine which preventive services most insurance plans must cover without a co-pay. In letters dated May 11, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. terminated the appointments of Dr. John Wong and Dr. Esa Davis before the end of their multiyear terms. Health and Human Services previously sidelined the task force’s work and postponed scheduled meetings over the past year.

Trump deep-sea mining push draws investors as regulators move to fast-track permits

2026-05-21

President Donald Trump’s executive order promising to create a U.S. deep-sea mining industry has helped spur a rush of company interest, with investors pouring money into projects and regulators preparing to streamline permits. In an Associated Press review, at least nine companies are in talks with the government for access to seabed minerals from American Samoa to Alaska.

Trump order pushes banks to check customers' citizenship status

2026-05-21

President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing banks and regulators to look for signs that some customers may lack legal status. The order is part of the administration’s broader push to clamp down on people living in the country illegally, and it frames banks’ credit risk if customers are deported.

Trump says he may release his tax returns after DOJ settlement

2026-05-21

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he may release his current tax returns after his legal team reached a deal with the Justice Department involving his IRS tax examinations. The settlement would permanently drop tax claims against Trump, his family and associates, and would bar the government from pursuing or prosecuting current tax examinations. The Justice Department said the deal resolves Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit over a leak of his tax returns and creates a $1.776 billion fund to compensate Trump allies.

U.S. will drop tax claims against Trump in settlement tied to lawsuit

2026-05-21

U.S. government officials said they will permanently withdraw tax claims against President Donald Trump as part of a settlement in a lawsuit over allegations of leaked confidential tax returns. The agreement, disclosed through a document posted by the Justice Department, would also bar the government from examining or prosecuting existing IRS audits involving Trump, his children and the Trump Organization.

Trump order spurs U.S. push for deep-sea mining, but questions remain

2026-05-21

In the year since President Donald Trump signed an executive order to build a deep-sea mining industry in the United States, investors have backed companies, stock prices have risen, and regulators have moved to speed up permitting. An Associated Press review found at least nine companies are in talks with the government for access to seabed minerals, with lease areas from American Samoa to Alaska potentially up for auction this summer and fall.

Senate advances bill to end Iran war as Cassidy flips to support

2026-05-20

The Senate advanced legislation Tuesday aimed at forcing President Donald Trump to withdraw from the Iran war, after Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy switched sides following a primary election loss. Democrats pressed for war powers votes that would require congressional approval for further action or a withdrawal of U.S. troops, and the effort gained one more Republican vote in the latest measure. The House is expected to consider a similar resolution Wednesday.

GOP rift over Trump $1.8B settlement fund delays immigration bill

2026-05-20

Senate Republicans abruptly left Washington on Thursday without voting on a roughly $70 billion bill to fund immigration enforcement agencies, delaying action until after Memorial Day amid GOP infighting over a proposed $1.776 billion settlement fund for Trump allies who claim political persecution.

Acting AG Todd Blanche defends $1.8 B fund that may pay Jan. 6 rioters

2026-05-20

Acting Attorney General **Todd Blanche** told a Senate oversight hearing on May 19 that a newly created $1.776 billion “Anti‑Weaponization Fund” could be available to anyone who believes they were a victim of political weaponization — including participants in the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot. Blanche declined to say whether the five‑member commission that will administer the payouts will bar people convicted of violence, saying his personal feelings “don’t matter.” Democrats on the panel blasted the proposal as an illegal abuse of power, while some Republican senators expressed discomfort with the fund’s purpose.

Barney Frank, liberal ex-congressman and gay-rights pioneer, dies at 86

2026-05-20

Barney Frank, a longtime Democratic congressman who became a leading national advocate for gay rights and helped craft major financial reforms, died Tuesday. He was 86. Frank entered hospice in Maine in April for congestive heart failure, according to his former campaign manager Jim Segel and close friend.

Tennessee man jailed over Charlie Kirk Facebook post wins $835,000 settlement

2026-05-20

Perry County, Tennessee, officials will pay $835,000 to settle a federal lawsuit brought by Larry Bushart, a retired police officer who was jailed for 37 days over a Facebook post about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Bushart, 61, was arrested in September 2025 and charged with a felony before prosecutors dropped the case in October, after spending more than a month behind bars that cost him his job and caused him to miss his wedding anniversary and the birth of his granddaughter.

DOJ creates $1.8 billion “Anti‑Weaponization” fund for Trump allies, Democrats decry slush fund

2026-05-20

The Justice Department announced on May 18 that it will establish a $1.776 billion “Anti‑Weaponization Fund” to compensate individuals who claim they were unfairly targeted for political reasons. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche described the fund as a “lawful process for victims of lawfare and weaponization to be heard and seek redress.” Critics in Congress called the plan an unconstitutional slush fund that could reward Trump supporters, including some convicted of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.

U.S. to drop tax claims against Trump in expanded IRS settlement

2026-05-20

The U.S. government will permanently drop tax claims against President Donald Trump, according to a settlement addendum posted Tuesday that expands a deal resolving Trump’s IRS-related lawsuit over the leak of his tax returns. The document says the government will be “forever barred and precluded” from examining or prosecuting Trump, his sons and the Trump organization’s current tax examinations, and from looking into Trump’s family, affiliates and others.

Tennessee man jailed over Charlie Kirk Facebook memes settles for $835,000

2026-05-20

Larry Bushart, a retired Perry County, Tennessee, police officer, reached a $835,000 settlement after being jailed for more than a month over Facebook posts about conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Federal court filings said Bushart was behind bars for 37 days before authorities dropped a felony charge in October.

Alaska governor calls special session to advance natural gas line bill

2026-05-20

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy on Tuesday ordered the Legislature to convene a special session starting Thursday, one day after the regular session deadline, to consider a bill advancing a North Slope natural gas line that he has declared his top priority in his final months in office.

Lawsuit alleges Arkansas group blocked land sale over Jewish ancestry

2026-05-20

A federal lawsuit filed in Arkansas says the owners of a development asked an applicant about her Jewish ancestry and rejected her land purchase because her mother was Jewish and because she has a Black husband and biracial children. The suit names Return to the Land, its Ozarks chapter and several officers, and says the group’s founders are pursuing an all-white community.

House committee discusses privatizing TSA screening at 250 airports

2026-05-20

House Homeland Security lawmakers held a hearing on Wednesday on how to “modernize” the Transportation Security Administration, as the Trump administration pushes to shift airport screening to private contractors at about 250 smaller airports. The discussion included bipartisan concerns about keeping TSA officers paid during government shutdowns and ensuring the agency has technology to carry out security work.

South Carolina House passes GOP-leaning congressional map after midnight

2026-05-20

Republicans in the South Carolina House voted just after midnight Tuesday to endorse a congressional redistricting plan favoring the GOP, setting up a fight in the state Senate. The House map would reshape South Carolina’s only Democratic-held U.S. House district to give Republicans a chance at winning an additional seat in the November midterms, after years of litigation and a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that weakened Voting Rights Act protections.

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy calls special session to advance gas line bill

2026-05-20

Gov. Mike Dunleavy ordered Alaska lawmakers to convene in Juneau for a special session on Thursday to consider House Bill 381, a natural gas taxation measure tied to an LNG pipeline project. The order came one day after the deadline for the regular session, as House and Senate lawmakers paused negotiations over competing versions of the bill.

Oregon voters reject gas tax increase as pump prices soar

2026-05-20

Oregon voters on Tuesday rejected a gas tax increase and related fee changes passed last year by Democratic lawmakers. The outcome, decided through a referendum, was widely framed as a win for Republicans who put the measures to voters as prices at the pump rose amid the war with Iran. Republican state Sen. Bruce Starr said he was “not surprised at all that Oregonians have rejected a completely unpopular tax increase.”

Trump administration fails to stop Indigenous exhibit at UC Berkeley after court ruling

2026-05-20

A mixed-reality exhibit celebrating Ohlone culture opened Sunday at UC Berkeley’s Lawrence Hall of Science, defeating a Trump administration attempt to block the $450,000 federal grant that funded it. A federal judge ordered the National Science Foundation grant released in April, ruling the freeze likely violated the First Amendment by punishing the university for its viewpoint.

Alabama Senate race heads to runoff; Tuberville and Jones set for governor rematch

2026-05-20

Former Navy SEAL Jared Hudson will face U.S. Rep. Barry Moore in a June 16 runoff for the Republican nomination for Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat, while U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville and former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones are headed for a rematch in the governor’s race this fall, after Tuesday’s primary elections set the fields in the state’s most closely watched contests.

GOP rift over Trump's $1.8B settlement fund delays immigration enforcement bill

2026-05-20

Senate Republicans abruptly postponed a vote Thursday on a roughly $70 billion immigration enforcement funding bill, stymied by internal revolt over a newly announced $1.8 billion Justice Department settlement fund and an abandoned White House security package that had drawn derision as a “billion-dollar ballroom.”

Trump endorses Ken Paxton over John Cornyn in Texas Senate runoff

2026-05-20

President Donald Trump on Tuesday endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the Republican runoff for the U.S. Senate seat held by John Cornyn, boosting Paxton’s effort to unseat an incumbent. Trump made the endorsement in a social media post during a Paxton campaign event in Allen, Texas, with early voting for the May 26 runoff running through Friday.

Trump shows reporters White House East Wing ballroom construction, despite Congress impasse

2026-05-20

President Donald Trump took reporters to a construction platform Tuesday to showcase the White House ballroom he is building on the former East Wing site, as lawmakers spar over a $1 billion request for security upgrades tied to the project. The Senate parliamentarian ruled the money could not be included in a bill funding immigrant enforcement agencies for three years, and some Republican lawmakers balked at the price in an election year. Trump said the ballroom would be funded by donors rather than taxpayers and described security features including a roof he said is “drone-proof.”

Texas Democrats seek to block antisemitism-accused candidate in runoff

2026-05-20

Democrats are trying to stop Maureen Galindo from winning the Democratic nomination in a Tuesday runoff against Johnny Garcia in Texas’ 35th Congressional District, where Galindo has repeatedly expressed antisemitic views. Democratic leaders accused Republicans of backing Galindo’s campaign, and Galindo’s team has disputed the characterizations of her proposals.

NAACP urges Black athletes to boycott college sports in the South

2026-05-20

The NAACP and the Congressional Black Caucus on Tuesday launched a campaign urging Black athletes and fans to boycott the athletic programs of public universities in Southern states they say are restricting Black voting rights. NAACP President Derrick Johnson said the effort targets states taking steps to limit, weaken or erase Black voting representation.

Alabama Senate race heads to runoff with Democrats set after Tuesday primaries

2026-05-20

Former Navy SEAL Jared Hudson advanced Wednesday to a June 16 runoff against U.S. Rep. Barry Moore for Alabama’s open U.S. Senate seat, the Associated Press reported. On the Democratic side, business owner Dakarai Larriett and lawyer Everett Wess moved to a runoff after Tuesday’s primary, as Alabama’s governor’s race and congressional redistricting fights continue to shape the political map.

Republicans weigh dropping $1B security bid for Trump’s White House ballroom

2026-05-20

Republican senators are weighing whether to drop a $1 billion security money request for the White House complex and President Donald Trump’s ballroom after it failed to win enough support inside the Republican Party. The proposal was attached to a larger roughly $70 billion immigration enforcement bill to restore funding for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Border Patrol, but GOP lawmakers raised questions about cost, limited details from the White House and U.S. Secret Service, and how the money would be used. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Wednesday that leaders are working through “ongoing vote issues” and “ongoing parliamentarian issues” as they test whether the changes can pass under Senate rules.

Rubio heads to NATO foreign ministers in Sweden amid troop, Iran concerns

2026-05-20

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel this week to a NATO foreign ministers meeting in Sweden, where U.S. plans to reduce troop levels in Europe have met European anxiety about President Donald Trump’s stance toward the alliance, an Associated Press report said. The State Department said Rubio will attend the meeting in Helsingborg on Friday before traveling to India.

Supreme Court sends Native voting rights enforcement dispute back to lower court

2026-05-20

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday ordered lower courts to reconsider a decision in a Voting Rights Act case brought by two Native American tribes, saying the ruling improperly limited who can sue to enforce the law. The justices sent back a second case involving Mississippi’s legislative map and indicated both disputes should be reexamined after an earlier Supreme Court decision that weakened Voting Rights Act enforcement.

Trump faces dissent from small but growing group of Hill Republicans

2026-05-20

WASHINGTON (AP) — A small but steadily growing cohort of House and Senate Republicans is breaking with President Donald Trump, a shift that could complicate Trump’s congressional agenda as the party’s Capitol Hill majority remains tenuous ahead of the November midterms, Associated Press reported on May 20.

Tuberville and Jones set Alabama rematch; GOP Senate primary heads to runoffs

2026-05-20

Alabama voters on Tuesday advanced candidates for governor and an open U.S. Senate seat, setting up a rematch for the governorship between former Democratic Sen. Doug Jones and GOP Sen. Tommy Tuberville, and runoff elections next month for the Senate nomination. The outcome for several House districts also faces possible disruption as Alabama prepares new primaries after a redistricting change, following a U.S. Supreme Court decision that weakened the Voting Rights Act.

Vance takes the spotlight at White House briefing after Rubio’s turn

2026-05-20

Vice President JD Vance stepped into the White House briefing room on Tuesday and fielded reporter questions for 54 minutes as Republicans sharpen early preparations for the 2028 presidential race. The appearance followed a briefing two weeks earlier by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was seen as a potential rival—possibly even a running mate—in 2028. Vance and Rubio also filled in temporarily for press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who is on maternity leave.

RFK Jr. fires leaders of panel that sets preventive health-screening rules

2026-05-20

WASHINGTON (AP) — Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has fired the two doctors who led the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, which helps set when insurance plans must cover screening services such as mammograms and colonoscopies without cost-sharing. In letters dated May 11, Kennedy notified the doctors that their appointments would end immediately.

Judges appear split as Pentagon battles Anthropic over AI security label

2026-05-20

A federal appeals court heard arguments Tuesday in the Pentagon’s legal fight with AI company Anthropic after the Defense Department designated the company a national security supply-chain risk. Judges from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit appeared divided, with one judge saying she saw no evidence for the Pentagon’s determination and another pressing what standard the court should use to second-guess Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s judgment.

Justice Department sues Connecticut over law restricting masks and IDs for ICE

2026-05-20

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a federal lawsuit against Connecticut over a new state law that bars federal agents from wearing masks and requires them to display identification during operations in the state. The department said the measure is “blatantly unconstitutional,” arguing that the federal government has supremacy over state rules for federal agents. Connecticut officials and lawmakers said the law is needed for public safety and assert the state has authority over policing and public areas.

Ohio judge acquits Maria Dearaujo of illegally voting as a noncitizen

2026-05-20

A judge in Franklin County, Ohio, acquitted Maria Dearaujo of illegally voting as a noncitizen, ruling that prosecutors failed to overcome an entrapment defense. The decision came Tuesday, when Franklin County Common Pleas Judge Chris Brown said Dearaujo’s testimony matched documentary evidence and that a Bureau of Motor Vehicles clerk helped lead her to register. Dearaujo was 63 at the time of the alleged conduct and later became a U.S. citizen.

Pentagon watchdog to evaluate targeting framework in boat strikes

2026-05-20

The Pentagon inspector general will review whether the U.S. military used an established targeting framework when it attacked dozens of alleged drug-smuggling boats in Latin American waters, according to a letter to Defense Department officials. The review will focus on what the Pentagon calls the six-phase Joint Targeting Cycle and the inspector general’s office said the effort was “self-initiated,” with no completion date given.

Trump’s false 2020 election claims dominate Georgia GOP primary runoffs

2026-05-20

President Donald Trump’s years-long false assertions that the 2020 presidential election was stolen have become a defining feature of Georgia’s Republican primary runoffs, with several candidates who have echoed those claims advancing to June contests for governor, U.S. Senate, and secretary of state. The first-round results on Tuesday showed that loyalty to Trump on the issue remains a potent force within the GOP, though some conservatives worry the focus could alienate general-election voters in November.

Chud the Builder claims free speech after shooting; critics see race-baiting

2026-05-20

A white livestreamer known as “Chud the Builder” was ordered held on $1 million bond Thursday after a Tennessee judge set the amount, following his arrest on attempted murder and other charges in the May 13 shooting of a Black man outside a Clarksville courthouse. Dalton Eatherly, 28, who has built an online following by confronting strangers with racist and provocative language while openly carrying a pistol, claims he acted in self-defense and that his speech is protected by the First Amendment. Civil rights advocates and legal experts say the case illustrates how hateful content, amplified for profit, can escalate into real-world violence.

EEOC weighs ending EEO-1 demographic data collection used to spot bias

2026-05-20

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is moving to stop collecting the demographic data companies have been required to submit under the EEO-1 system, NPR reported May 20. Under the longstanding requirement, employers with 100 or more workers send the federal government information about employees’ race, ethnicity and sex to help the EEOC investigate discrimination claims. The move, which NPR says has been discussed in connection with the Trump administration’s approach, drew concerns from former and outside civil-rights attorneys about losing a key tool for building cases.

Trump order pushes banks to check customers’ citizenship status

2026-05-20

The order, signed by President Donald Trump in Washington Tuesday, directs regulators and agencies to look for signs that people without legal status are opening accounts or obtaining loans. But it is less sweeping than earlier reporting suggested, offering guidance to banks rather than making citizenship-data collection mandatory.

Trump discloses thousands of stock trades, including Nvidia and Apple

2026-05-20

President Donald Trump disclosed thousands of stock trades in a report filed with a federal ethics agency, including purchases tied to companies that could be affected by his policy decisions, according to the Associated Press. The filing shows more than 3,600 buy and sell orders over three months, with an average of about 50 trades per day when markets were open. The report also includes trades that critics say raise conflict-of-interest concerns, while a Trump family spokesperson said third parties manage the portfolio without input from the president or his organization.

Lawsuit accuses Massachusetts schools of segregating students by race

2026-05-20

A lawsuit filed in Massachusetts state court accuses the state of maintaining school assignments that keep Black and Latino students concentrated in high-poverty, low-opportunity districts. The plaintiffs say the practice of assigning students based solely on where they live replicates housing segregation in schools, and they ask the state to address disparities tied to those rules.

Shapiro-backed Democrats win PA House primaries, set November matchups

2026-05-20

Democrats backed by Gov. Josh Shapiro won primary elections in several Pennsylvania swing congressional districts Tuesday, setting up the candidates the party hopes to use to flip House seats in November, the Associated Press reported. Shapiro also won the Democratic nomination in the Pennsylvania governor’s race, where he faces Republican state Treasurer Stacy Garrity after both prevailed in their primaries.

Jury acquits Next Jump executives accused of bribing Adm. Robert Burke

2026-05-20

A federal jury acquitted two business executives of charges that they conspired to bribe a retired four-star U.S. Navy admiral in exchange for a military contract and a postretirement job, according to court records. The verdict ended the retrial in Washington, D.C., after an earlier trial for Next Jump co-CEOs Yongchul “Charlie” Kim and Meghan Messenger ended in a hung jury and a mistrial.

Trump-backed Ed Gallrein defeats Thomas Massie in Kentucky GOP primary

2026-05-20

US Rep. Thomas Massie lost the Kentucky Republican House primary on Tuesday to Ed Gallrein, a president-backed challenger, in a contest that reflected Donald Trump's clout with GOP voters. Massie, who has served in Congress since 2012, acknowledged in his concession remarks that he had pursued voters for both him and Trump.

James Murdoch strikes deal to buy New York magazine and Vox Media

2026-05-20

Media scion James Murdoch has agreed to acquire New York magazine and Vox Media’s podcast network and editorial brands, with a deal expected to close within weeks, according to The Associated Press. Under the arrangement, Lupa Systems—Murdoch’s media company—will take on three Vox Media divisions and operate them as a subsidiary called Vox Media.

Soros Open Society Foundations pledges $300 million for U.S. democracy

2026-05-20

George Soros’ Open Society Foundations pledged $300 million for U.S. initiatives it says will defend democratic rights and advance economic security over the next five years, the organization said Wednesday. The pledge comes as the Trump administration has targeted the Soros family and as lawmakers have pressed the IRS and DOJ to investigate nonprofits for activities they dispute.

Tuesday primaries show Trump’s pull and Democrats’ wins across key states

2026-05-20

U.S. voters on Tuesday chose nominees in Republican and Democratic primaries across several states, reshaping campaigns ahead of the fall general election. The Associated Press said Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie’s loss to a Trump-backed challenger underscored Trump’s power over his party. The AP also reported that Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s endorsed Democrats all won their primaries.

ACA Enrollment Projected to Drop Sharply Amid Rising Costs

2026-05-20

A new analysis projects a significant decline in Affordable Care Act enrollment due to rising healthcare costs and the expiration of subsidies. The KFF report estimates that nearly 5 million Americans could lose their ACA coverage this year.

Democratic-led states sue Trump over federal student loan caps

2026-05-20

A coalition of Democratic-led states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit challenging new federal caps on student loans, arguing the limits will hinder students seeking certain healthcare degrees. The plaintiffs said the rule would fall hardest on critical healthcare professions that communities need. The U.S. Department of Education defended the caps, saying they are meant to push colleges and universities to lower tuition.

DOJ creates nearly $1.8 billion fund to compensate Trump allies

2026-05-20

The Justice Department announced Monday it will create a nearly $1.8 billion fund to compensate people who say they were unjustly investigated and prosecuted after a settlement resolving President Donald Trump’s lawsuit over the leak of his tax returns. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the arrangement would provide “a lawful process for victims of lawfare and weaponization.” Democrats and government watchdogs denounced the deal as “corrupt” and unconstitutional.

Ex-prosecutor charged with sending sealed Jack Smith report to herself

2026-05-20

A former federal prosecutor in Florida, Carmen Lineberger, has been charged with sending to her personal email account a special counsel report from the investigation into President Donald Trump’s classified-documents case, according to an indictment unsealed Wednesday. Prosecutors said the report was supposed to remain sealed under a judge’s order. Lineberger pleaded not guilty in federal court in West Palm Beach.

Gobierno de EEUU retira reclamos fiscales contra Trump en acuerdo del IRS

2026-05-20

El gobierno de Estados Unidos retirará “de forma permanente” sus reclamos fiscales contra el presidente Donald Trump como parte de un acuerdo ligado a una demanda de 10.000 millones de dólares por filtraciones de declaraciones fiscales, informó el martes el Departamento de Justicia. El documento del acuerdo también indica que el gobierno queda “para siempre impedido y excluido” de examinar o procesar auditorías fiscales actuales de Trump, de sus hijos y de la Organización Trump.

Iranian family detained seeks release after green cards revoked over 1979 role

2026-05-20

An Iranian family detained in U.S. immigration facilities is seeking release after the government moved to deport them, saying their green cards were revoked because of ties to Masoumeh Ebtekar, known during the 1979 U.S. Embassy hostage crisis as “Sister Mary.” A federal judge has temporarily barred deportations while the family challenges the legality of their detention.

Trump says he may release tax returns after DOJ deal drops claims

2026-05-20

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he may release his current tax returns after his legal team reached a deal with the Justice Department that includes permanently dropping certain tax claims against him and others. The Justice Department said the government is “forever barred and precluded” from pursuing or prosecuting current tax examinations tied to Trump’s finances, and the settlement was meant to resolve Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit over an alleged leak of his tax returns.

Vance expands Medicaid fraud push to Ohio, GOP scrambles ahead of election

2026-05-20

Vice President JD Vance on May 19 said he is extending a federal Medicaid-fraud crackdown to his home state of Ohio, setting off political maneuvering among Ohio Republicans including governor nominee Vivek Ramaswamy. The move followed a conservative outlet’s investigation into abuses in Ohio’s Medicaid-funded home health program and came amid a broader fight over how much Ohio’s Medicaid oversight changes after years of Republican control.

Senate advances bill to end Iran war as GOP's Cassidy flips

2026-05-19

The Senate advanced legislation Tuesday forcing President Donald Trump to withdraw U.S. troops from the Iran war, marking a significant breach in Republican unity as Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy switched sides to join Democrats. The 50-47 vote gives a growing number of GOP lawmakers their first successful push to end a conflict that has spanned more than two months since Trump ordered the initial strikes.

US pauses joint defense board with Canada as alliance strains deepen

2026-05-19

The United States is suspending its participation on the Permanent Joint Board on Defense with Canada, a bilateral military cooperation body that has operated continuously since 1940, the Pentagon announced Monday. Undersecretary of Defense Elbridge Colby accused Canada of failing "to make credible progress on its defense commitments."

Senate advances bill aimed at ending Iran war as GOP Cassidy flips

2026-05-19

The Senate advanced legislation Tuesday aimed at forcing President Donald Trump to withdraw from the Iran war, as a small but growing number of Republicans broke with the White House’s position. Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy, after losing a primary that Trump had backed, supported the measure for the first time in the 50-47 vote.

Tuberville and Jones win primaries, set rematch for Alabama governor; Senate race to runoff

2026-05-19

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville won the Republican nomination for Alabama governor on Tuesday, according to results reported by the Associated Press, setting up a rematch with Democrat Doug Jones. Meanwhile, the race for Alabama's open U.S. Senate seat will be decided in a June runoff after no candidate cleared the majority threshold in either party's primary.

Judges appear split in dispute between AI company Anthropic and Pentagon

2026-05-19

A panel of three federal appellate judges heard oral arguments Tuesday in Anthropic's appeal against the Pentagon's decision to brand the artificial intelligence company a national security supply-chain risk, with one judge calling the Defense Department's action a "spectacular overreach."

Massie loses GOP primary after Trump’s push for Ed Gallrein

2026-05-19

Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie lost his Republican House primary Tuesday, after President Donald Trump backed and helped install Ed Gallrein as the challenger who defeated the incumbent, according to the Associated Press. Massie, a libertarian-leaning backbench Republican who often voted against party and presidential priorities, cast his loss as a fight over whether lawmakers should follow the president or the Constitution.

U.S. permanently drops tax claims against Trump, bars future IRS audits

2026-05-19

The U.S. government has permanently agreed to drop all tax claims against President Donald Trump and to bar the Internal Revenue Service from any future examination or prosecution of Trump, his adult sons, and the Trump Organization, according to a settlement addendum made public Tuesday. The one-page document signed by acting Attorney General Todd Blanche was quietly posted to the Justice Department's website a day after the broader settlement resolving Trump's $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS over the leak of his tax returns was announced.

Thomas Massie loses Kentucky GOP primary to Trump-backed challenger

2026-05-19

Rep. Thomas Massie, a seven-term Kentucky Republican known for his independent streak, lost his primary reelection bid Tuesday after President Donald Trump handpicked and backed challenger Ed Gallrein in what the Associated Press described as a vicious and costly campaign against the incumbent.

ACA enrollment projected to drop by nearly 5 million as costs spike

2026-05-19

Nationwide enrollment in the Affordable Care Act health insurance marketplace could fall by nearly 5 million people this year, a decline of more than 20%, according to a new analysis from the healthcare research nonprofit KFF. Those who remain covered face higher costs, with the average enrollee’s deductible rising more than $1,000 and monthly premiums climbing $65. The projected drop-off, far steeper than initial federal data indicated, stems from the Jan. 1 expiration of enhanced subsidies that had helped the vast majority of enrollees pay for coverage, and could become a decisive issue in this year’s midterm elections.

US government to drop tax claims against Trump in broadened IRS settlement

2026-05-19

The U.S. government will permanently drop tax claims against President Donald Trump under a settlement document made public Tuesday, expanding an earlier deal tied to Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit over leaks of his tax returns, according to the Justice Department addendum. The document says the government is “forever barred and precluded” from examining or prosecuting Trump, his sons and the Trump organization’s current tax examinations.

Trump DOJ launches $1.776B fund to compensate allies claiming political targeting

2026-05-19

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche on May 18 announced the creation of an "Anti-Weaponization Fund" worth nearly $1.8 billion, a program Democrats have criticized as unconstitutional and corrupt, as part of a deal to resolve Trump's $10 billion lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service over the leak of his tax returns.

$1B White House security push tied to Trump ballroom faces GOP revolt ahead of vote

2026-05-19

A proposal to add $1 billion in security upgrades for the White House campus, including the president's new ballroom, faces uncertain support from Senate Republicans ahead of an anticipated vote this week, even as President Donald Trump and the Secret Service press for the funding. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Tuesday that passage depends on leadership's ability to secure votes after the Senate parliamentarian ruled the plan cannot be included in immigration enforcement legislation.

GOP opposition grows to $1B White House security add-on tied to ballroom

2026-05-19

WASHINGTON (AP) — A proposal to fund $1 billion in security additions for the White House campus and President Donald Trump’s new ballroom is facing growing opposition from Republicans ahead of an expected vote this week. Republicans are revising the plan after the Senate parliamentarian said Saturday it did not meet requirements to be included in legislation to fund immigration enforcement agencies, but several GOP senators have questioned whether the security spending should move forward.

South Carolina House passes new congressional map, bill heads to Senate

2026-05-19

South Carolina House Republicans endorsed a new congressional redistricting plan late Tuesday, moving the bill to a more skeptical state Senate after Democrats objected. The measure reshapes the state’s only Democratic-held U.S. House district to Republicans’ advantage as the November midterms approach, with President Donald Trump urging the state to redraw its districts.

Cassidy says he has no regrets after Trump impeachment vote cost seat

2026-05-19

Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy returned to the U.S. Capitol after losing his Republican primary reelection bid and told reporters he has no regrets about his five-years-ago vote to convict President Donald Trump in a Senate impeachment trial. Cassidy said the vote upheld the Constitution and that he “feels very, very good” about how he served his country. He said his defeat in Louisiana followed Trump’s endorsement of a rival and years of questions about the impeachment vote.

Supreme Court sends Native American voting rights case back to lower court

2026-05-19

The Supreme Court on Monday ordered lower courts to reconsider a ruling that would sharply limit who can sue under the Voting Rights Act, acting in a case brought by two Native American tribes in North Dakota. The justices directed the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to revisit its decision that only the federal government — not voters or advocacy groups — can bring lawsuits under Section 2 of the landmark civil rights law.

Senate confirms Steve Pearce to oversee federal public lands

2026-05-19

The U.S. Senate confirmed former New Mexico congressman Steve Pearce to lead the Bureau of Land Management on Monday, handing President Donald Trump the agency director needed to expand mining and drilling on federal territories while rolling back previous conservation measures.

Trump halts planned Iran strikes as Gulf allies urge negotiations

2026-05-19

President Donald Trump has paused plans to resume military strikes against Iran at the request of Gulf Arab allies, who told the White House that serious negotiations are underway. The move represents another setback in a pressure campaign that has relied on threats, rhetoric and military action without shifting Tehran from its long-established positions.

Trump tours White House ballroom construction after Congress balks at $1B price tag

2026-05-19

President Donald Trump on Tuesday took reporters to the construction site of the White House ballroom he is building on the former East Wing, shouting over the noise of heavy equipment as he defended the project that has encountered resistance in Congress. The administration has requested $1 billion for security additions on the White House campus, including the ballroom, but the Senate parliamentarian has ruled the proposal cannot be included in a bill funding immigrant enforcement agencies, and several Republican lawmakers have balked at the cost amid an election year where voters are grappling with high prices from the Iran war and disruptions to oil supplies.

Supreme Court rejects drugmakers’ appeals on Medicare price talks

2026-05-19

The Supreme Court on Monday rejected appeals from pharmaceutical companies challenging the federal government's authority to negotiate prices for high-cost drugs in Medicare, leaving in place lower court rulings that upheld the program created by the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.

Trump executed 3,600 stock trades tied to his own policy decisions, filing shows

2026-05-19

President Donald Trump placed more than 3,600 stock trades during the first three months of 2026, according to a federal ethics filing, including as much as $6 million in Nvidia and shares of defense contractors whose profits his administration has directly influenced through policy decisions on chip exports and military spending. The volume of trading — exceeding 100 transactions per week — breaks with the practice of recent presidents who avoided holding individual stocks whose value they could affect.

More Republicans approve of Trump on immigration than economy, poll finds

2026-05-19

A new AP-NORC poll finds that Republicans' approval of President Donald Trump's handling of the economy has dropped to about 6 in 10, down from roughly 8 in 10 in February before the war with Iran began, while Republican support for the president's immigration policies remains higher, according to the survey.

Shapiro-backed Democrats win Pennsylvania House primaries, governor's race set

2026-05-19

Democrats in Pennsylvania backed by Gov. Josh Shapiro won their primaries Tuesday in three swing congressional districts, setting up November matchups that party leaders hope will flip four Republican-held seats and help capture a U.S. House majority. Shapiro will face Republican Treasurer Stacy Garrity in the general election after both coasted to their party nominations.

Oregon voters head to polls in primary elections for governor, Congress and gas tax measure

2026-05-19

Oregon voters went to the polls Tuesday to choose party nominees for governor, U.S. Senate and House seats, and to decide a ballot measure that would raise gas taxes and vehicle fees to fund transportation infrastructure projects. Incumbent Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek, facing nearly two dozen challengers in her primary, has made President Donald Trump a central target of her reelection campaign.

Rubio heads to NATO meeting as European angst grows

2026-05-19

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to Sweden this week for a NATO foreign ministers meeting, as European allies grow increasingly concerned about U.S. plans to cut troop levels in Europe and President Donald Trump's shifting stance on the alliance. The meeting comes against a backdrop of the ongoing Iran war and rising global energy prices.

Georgia Republicans head to runoffs for Senate and governor after Tuesday primary

2026-05-19

Georgia Republicans failed to settle two marquee contests in Tuesday's primary, sending the state's Senate and governor races to June runoffs. Former University of Tennessee football coach Derek Dooley and U.S. Rep. Mike Collins advanced to the Republican runoff for the Senate nomination, while Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and healthcare billionaire Rick Jackson will compete for the party's gubernatorial nod. Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms secured the Democratic nomination for governor.

Israel allows women to take rabbinic exams for the first time

2026-05-19

Israel will for the first time allow women to sit for the rabbinic exams that Israel’s rabbinate requires for Orthodox men, NPR reported May 19. The change follows years of court fights, but Israel’s official rabbinate still refuses to ordain women as Orthodox rabbis. NPR’s Daniel Estrin described three women who completed the exam in Jerusalem.

Iranian family linked to 1979 hostage crisis seeks release from detention

2026-05-19

An Iranian family detained in immigration custody in Texas is seeking release after U.S. authorities arrested them in Los Angeles over their familial ties to Masoumeh Ebtekar, known during the 1979 U.S. Embassy hostage crisis as “Sister Mary.” A federal judge temporarily barred deportation after the family filed petitions challenging the legality of their detention.

Former rivals Tuberville and Jones set for Alabama governor rematch

2026-05-19

Alabama’s Republican nominee for governor, Tommy Tuberville, and former Democratic Sen. Doug Jones won their Tuesday primaries, setting up a rematch for governor and runoffs next month for an open U.S. Senate seat, according to the Associated Press. The state is also poised to void results in four congressional districts after Supreme Court action weakened the Voting Rights Act, prompting special primaries in August.

NAACP urges Black athletes to boycott college sports in redistricting states

2026-05-19

The NAACP and the Congressional Black Caucus are urging Black athletes and fans to boycott the athletic programs of public universities in several Southern states they say are restricting Black voting rights. The groups launched the “Out of Bounds” campaign to “withhold athletic and financial support” from universities in states they argue are moving to limit, weaken or erase Black voting representation.

Idaho voters head to polls Tuesday for primary elections

2026-05-19

Idaho voters will nominate candidates for federal, state and local offices in primary elections Tuesday, with Republican U.S. Sen. Jim Risch seeking a fourth term facing three primary challengers and Gov. Brad Little also on the GOP ballot. The contests will determine the nominees who will compete in November's general election, when Republicans will rely on Idaho to help maintain control of the U.S. Senate and House.

Iranian family detained over 1979 hostage crisis link demands release

2026-05-19

An Iranian family living in the United States for a decade is demanding release from immigration detention after being arrested because of their relation to Masoumeh Ebtekar, a central figure in the 1979 U.S. Embassy hostage crisis in Tehran. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in April he was revoking the family's green cards over their ties to Ebtekar, and a federal judge has temporarily barred the government from deporting them.

Texas summer camps close, scale back after state imposes new safety rules

2026-05-19

After nearly 20 years of moving between campgrounds, Orr Family Ministries settled in 2022 on a 12-acre site on a hill in Colorado County, Texas, and established Camp Oak Haven. This summer, the camp will not reopen — its operators sold the land after determining they could not meet sweeping new state safety regulations imposed on the camp industry in the wake of a 2025 flood that killed multiple people at Camp Mystic in the Texas Hill Country.

Texas camp closures show strain of new safety rules after flood

2026-05-19

Texas summer camps have closed or cut back operations after new state regulations were introduced in the wake of a deadly July 4 Hill Country flood that killed 27 children and counselors at Camp Mystic. Orr Family Ministries sold the land for its Camp Oak Haven, citing the costs and practical challenges of complying with requirements that include weather warning systems and broadband access. State health officials have since reached an agreement with 19 camp operators that temporarily lifts a fiber-optic internet requirement, but camp directors say higher licensing fees and other safety mandates are still pushing some rural and urban camps out of business.

Vance, Rubio turn White House briefing rostrum into early 2028 campaign stage

2026-05-19

Vice President JD Vance spent 54 minutes at the White House briefing room lectern on May 19, five minutes longer than Secretary of State Marco Rubio's appearance two weeks earlier, as the two leading potential Republican presidential candidates used their temporary role as stand-in press secretaries to make early overtures to the 2028 electorate, the Associated Press reported.

States sue Trump rule limiting federal loans for some nursing, health degrees

2026-05-19

A coalition of 24 states and the District of Columbia sued in federal court Tuesday to challenge a Trump administration rule that narrows access to federal student loans for borrowers earning certain graduate degrees in healthcare-related fields. The plaintiffs argue the rule unlawfully tightens the federal definition of which “professional” degrees qualify for higher loan limits, while the Education Department says the caps are aimed at reducing college costs.

Debate grows over whether White House correspondents’ dinner should resume

2026-05-19

A panel of officials and media figures are debating whether the White House Correspondents’ Association should reschedule its annual dinner, more than three weeks after a man opened fire at the event and prosecutors said he was trying to kill President Donald Trump. The association said its president, Weijia Jiang of CBS News, continues to weigh options, while Trump said on social media the dinner would be rescheduled within 30 days.

New York Times sues Pentagon a second time over journalist escort rule

2026-05-19

The New York Times filed its second lawsuit in five months against the Defense Department on Monday, arguing that a policy requiring journalists to be escorted while on Pentagon grounds violates the First Amendment. The Times called the escort requirement 'an unconstitutional attempt … to prevent independent reporting on military affairs,' while the Pentagon said the suit amounts to 'an attempt to remove the barriers to them getting their hands on classified information.'

Pope Leo XIV to launch first encyclical on AI with Anthropic co-founder

2026-05-19

Pope Leo XIV will release his first encyclical on May 25, a document focused on the care of human dignity in the era of artificial intelligence, with Christopher Olah, co-founder of the AI safety company Anthropic, joining the pontiff for the launch, the Vatican announced Monday.

DOJ establishes $1.8B fund to compensate Trump allies amid IRS lawsuit settlement

2026-05-19

The Justice Department announced the creation of a $1.776 billion fund Monday to compensate allies of President Donald Trump who claim they were targeted for prosecution for political purposes, resolving his lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service over the leak of his tax returns. Democrats and government watchdogs immediately criticized the arrangement as unconstitutional, while acting Attorney General Todd Blanche framed it as a necessary corrective measure against the weaponization of law enforcement.

MSU trustees pass updated ethics policy as salary debate intensifies

2026-05-19

Michigan State University trustees must sign an updated board ethics policy by this weekend after approving the changes 5-3 during a special Sunday night meeting. The new policy outlines fiduciary duties, prohibits undermining board decisions, and establishes penalties for noncompliance, drawing sharply divided reactions from board members and observers.

Minnesota charges ICE officer with assault in Jan. 14 shooting of Venezuelan man

2026-05-19

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty on Monday charged Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer Christian Castro with four counts of second-degree assault and one count of falsely reporting a crime in the nonfatal shooting of Venezuelan man Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis during the federal immigration crackdown in Minnesota.

US permanently drops tax claims against Trump in expanded IRS settlement

2026-05-19

The United States government has permanently withdrawn tax claims against President Donald Trump, his children, and the Trump Organization as part of a settlement resolving a $10 billion lawsuit over the leak of Trump's tax returns. The agreement, signed by acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, permanently bars the Internal Revenue Service from examining or processing current audits of the president and his family.

Massie faces Trump-backed challenger Ed Gallrein in Kentucky GOP primary

2026-05-19

Rep. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican who has been one of President Donald Trump's most vocal critics in Congress, faces a primary challenge Tuesday from Ed Gallrein, a farmer and former Navy SEAL who entered the race at Trump's urging. The contest in the 4th Congressional District is the marquee race in Kentucky's primary elections.

Man arrested day after judge bans ICE arrests at NYC immigration courts

2026-05-19

A federal judge barred ICE agents from routinely arresting people attending immigration court proceedings in New York City, ruling that appearing for a hearing should not carry the risk of detention. A day after the order, a 21-year-old man was arrested inside a federal building covered by the ruling, raising questions about compliance.

Hegseth assails Massie in Kentucky primary, praises Trump-backed challenger

2026-05-19

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday traveled to Kentucky to campaign against Rep. Thomas Massie on the eve of the Kentucky primary, stepping away from the Iran war to wade into a congressional election testing President Donald Trump's political clout. Hegseth delivered remarks designed to undermine Massie, one of Trump's chief Republican critics in Congress, and to praise Massie's rival, former Navy SEAL Ed Gallrein.

US drops fraud charges against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani

2026-05-19

U.S. prosecutors have moved to dismiss criminal fraud and conspiracy charges against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, whom authorities in 2024 accused of orchestrating a massive bribery scheme to secure a lucrative solar power contract in India. The Department of Justice said it will not devote further resources to the case as a matter of prosecutorial discretion.

Massie's primary loss underscores Trump's grip on GOP

2026-05-19

Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky lost his Republican primary Tuesday to Ed Gallrein, a challenger endorsed by President Donald Trump, in what the Associated Press described as the most expensive U.S. House primary in history.

Trump order pushes banks to check customers' citizenship status

2026-05-19

President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing banks and regulators to look for signs that customers without legal status are opening accounts or obtaining credit. The order, announced Tuesday, frames the move as a way to prevent credit and financial-system risks tied to customers who could be deported.

Ed Gallrein defeats Thomas Massie in Kentucky GOP primary, underscoring Trump’s influence

2026-05-19

Former Navy SEAL Ed Gallrein defeated incumbent Rep. Thomas Massie in Kentucky’s Republican House primary on May 19, 2026. The upset came after President Donald Trump hand‑picked and endorsed Gallrein, highlighting the president’s continued sway over GOP voters. Gallrein’s win also made the race the most expensive U.S. House primary in history, while other Trump‑backed candidates secured victories in the state’s Senate contests.

Oregon voters reject gas tax increase as pump prices soar

2026-05-19

Oregon voters on Tuesday rejected a gas tax increase and related fee changes that Democratic lawmakers passed last year, a result Republicans portrayed as a rebuke timed amid rising pump prices from the war with Iran. Democrats’ Gov. Tina Kotek and U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley won their primary races, while state Sen. Christine Drazan won the GOP gubernatorial nomination to face Kotek in November.

Vance targets Ohio in Medicaid fraud crackdown

2026-05-19

In Ohio, Vice President JD Vance said he is directing President Donald Trump’s anti-fraud task force to focus on the state after scrutiny of its Medicaid-funded home health program, a move that has scrambled Republicans ahead of state political races. Days later, Ohio’s governor, Mike DeWine, defended existing fraud enforcement and announced new prevention steps.

Democratic-led states sue over Trump caps on federal student loans

2026-05-19

A coalition of Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to challenge new caps on federal student loans, saying the limits will restrict access to certain health care training. The lawsuit, filed Tuesday, argues the rules will disproportionately affect students pursuing degrees in critical health fields, taking effect in July.

Blanche faces scrutiny over nearly $1.8B fund that could pay Jan. 6 rioters

2026-05-18

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche told lawmakers he would not rule out considering people who assaulted police during the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol for payouts from a new $1.776 billion fund. During a Congressional hearing, Blanche said anyone could apply if they believe they were a victim of “weaponization,” and he declined to say whether he would direct a commission to exclude those convicted of violence.

Trump allies fund DOJ plan for nearly $1.8B “Anti-Weaponization Fund”

2026-05-18

President Donald Trump’s allies who say they were wrongly investigated or prosecuted could soon seek compensation through a new Justice Department fund announced Monday, the Justice Department said. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche described the “Anti-Weaponization Fund” as a “lawful process” for people targeted for “improper and unlawful political, personal, or ideological reasons.” Democrats and other critics said the arrangement would be unconstitutional and corrupt, funded through the federal judgment fund and overseen by a commission appointed by Blanche.

Pentagon releases defense strategy emphasizing Western Hemisphere over China

2026-05-18

In January, the Trump administration released a National Defense Strategy that fundamentally shifts U.S. foreign policy priorities, emphasizing control of the Western Hemisphere over decades-long efforts to counter China while directing U.S. allies to take greater responsibility for their own defense. The 34-page document, the Pentagon's first comprehensive defense strategy since 2022, sharply criticizes U.S. allies for relying on American military protection and explicitly seeks to guarantee U.S. access to strategic terrain including Greenland and the Panama Canal. "For too long, the U.S. Government neglected — even rejected — putting Americans and their concrete interests first," states the opening sentence of the document, which calls for "a sharp shift — in approach, focus, and tone."

Federal officer shoots and kills Minneapolis man in immigration sweep

2026-05-18

A federal immigration officer shot and killed Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse who had protested President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown, during an enforcement operation Saturday in Minneapolis, drawing hundreds of protesters onto the streets in sub-zero weather.

Man wounded in Border Patrol exchange of gunfire near Arizona border

2026-05-18

A man was wounded on January 27 after exchanging gunfire with U.S. Border Patrol agents near the Arizona-Mexico border, according to authorities. Patrick Gary Schlegel, 34, of Arizona, fired at a Border Patrol helicopter and at agents during an apprehension attempt near Arivaca, Arizona, about 10 miles from the border. Agents returned fire, striking Schlegel, who was transported to a hospital and recovering from surgery, said Heith Janke, special agent in charge of the FBI in Phoenix.

Medical influencer Attia quits CBS News after appearing in Epstein files

2026-05-18

Dr. Peter Attia resigned from his position at CBS News in late February after his name appeared in documents released by the Justice Department relating to Jeffrey Epstein, the financier convicted of sex trafficking. Attia, who hosts a popular podcast and authored "Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity," had been appointed as a network contributor by CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss the previous month. In a statement, Attia acknowledged that some of his emails were "embarrassing, tasteless and indefensible," but stated he attended no parties hosted by Epstein and was guilty of no wrongdoing.

Kentucky primaries: What to expect in GOP Massie challenge and Senate races

2026-05-18

Kentucky voters head to the polls Tuesday for state primaries that include a major contest in the 4th Congressional District and crowded races to succeed retiring Sen. Mitch McConnell, with Democrats and Republicans also selecting candidates for the state legislature and U.S. House seats.

Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy says he has no regrets about Trump impeachment

2026-05-18

Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy, back in Washington after losing his Republican primary for reelection, said Monday he has no regrets about his “momentous” vote to convict President Donald Trump in his first impeachment trial. Speaking to reporters at the U.S. Capitol, Cassidy said the vote upheld the Constitution, even as it cost him his seat.

Democrats aim to flip four Pennsylvania House seats in Tuesday primary

2026-05-18

Democratic voters in Pennsylvania will choose their nominees Tuesday in four competitive congressional districts that the party views as critical to retaking the U.S. House of Representatives in November. All four Republican incumbents — Brian Fitzpatrick in the 1st District, Ryan Mackenzie in the 7th, Rob Bresnahan in the 8th, and Scott Perry in the 10th — are unopposed in their primaries and will face the winners of contested Democratic races.

Trump administration escalates Cuba pressure after Raúl Castro indictment

2026-05-18

The U.S. has indicted former Cuban President Raúl Castro, charging him in the 1996 shootdown of two planes flown by the Miami-based exile group Brothers to the Rescue, as the Trump administration renews pressure on Cuba. The indictment, announced May 20, lands amid months of intensified U.S. rhetoric about regime change and growing tensions with Cuba’s government. The moves have unfolded alongside sensitive U.S. diplomacy in the Middle East and a U.S.-Iran war in which the United States has been in an uneasy ceasefire.

Trump administration plans to admit more white South Africans as refugees

2026-05-18

The Trump administration said it will admit up to 17,500 Afrikaners, a group of white South Africans descended mainly from Dutch settlers, as refugees through the U.S. fiscal year ending in September. In an emergency notice to Congress, the State Department said it will admit the group because their status leaves them vulnerable to discrimination and persecution, and it cited “unforeseen developments in South Africa” that created an emergency. The administration’s plans were described by AP as it said it will consult with lawmakers later this week.

Trump-backed Ed Gallrein defeats Rep. Thomas Massie in Kentucky GOP primary

2026-05-18

US Rep. Thomas Massie lost Kentucky’s Republican House primary Tuesday to Ed Gallrein, a challenger Trump endorsed and backed, the Associated Press reported. The defeat adds to a series of Republican upsets in which voters backed Trump-aligned challengers against sitting incumbents. After the loss, Massie told supporters that “There is a yearning in this country for someone who will vote for principles over party,” AP reported.

Alabama primaries set rematch for governor, runoffs for U.S. Senate seat

2026-05-18

Alabama voters head to runoffs next month for an open U.S. Senate seat after Republican Tommy Tuberville and Democrat Doug Jones won their governor primaries, setting up a rematch. The runoff for the Senate nomination will be held June 16, while redistricting litigation could force new House primaries in August under revised maps.

Georgia GOP sets up runoff for Senate nomination and governor after primary

2026-05-18

Georgia Republicans will head into June 16 runoffs after Tuesday’s primary left no outright winners for the Republican nominations for governor and U.S. Senate in the battleground state, with campaigns now turning to extra fundraising and organizing. The GOP Senate runoff pairs former college football coach Derek Dooley and Rep. Mike Collins, while Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and healthcare billionaire Rick Jackson advance for governor. Democratic Rep. Keisha Lance Bottoms won the Democratic nomination for governor.

Hegseth targets Massie in Kentucky as he praises Gallrein

2026-05-18

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth traveled to Kentucky to campaign against Rep. Thomas Massie ahead of Massie’s GOP primary, framing the contest as a test of President Donald Trump’s influence. Hegseth said he was speaking as “a private citizen” while repeatedly invoking Trump, as Massie criticized the move as politically driven.

Senate confirms Steve Pearce to lead Bureau of Land Management

2026-05-18

The U.S. Senate confirmed President Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Bureau of Land Management on Monday in a 46-43 vote, as the administration moves to expand mining and drilling while reversing conservation plans. Steve Pearce, a former Republican congressman from New Mexico, will oversee about a quarter-billion acres of public lands through the federal land agency.

Shapiro-backed Democrats win Pennsylvania House primaries in swing districts

2026-05-18

Shapiro-backed Democrats won Tuesday primaries in three Pennsylvania congressional swing districts, putting new Democratic nominees in place to challenge Republican incumbents in November, the Associated Press reported. Gov. Josh Shapiro also won his party’s nomination for governor without opposition and plans to face Republican state Treasurer Stacy Garrity in the fall.

Supreme Court sends Native American voting-rights case back for review

2026-05-18

The U.S. Supreme Court ordered lower courts to reconsider a ruling in a Voting Rights Act case brought by two Native American tribes, saying the lower court applied the law too narrowly after a recent Supreme Court decision weakened enforcement. The justices directed courts to revisit an appeals court ruling that limited who may sue under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.

US pauses Canada joint defense board dating to WWII, citing defense gaps

2026-05-18

The Pentagon said the United States is pausing participation in a joint defense board with Canada that dates to World War II, accusing Canada of failing to make credible progress on its defense commitments. The decision was announced Monday by Defense Department officials, as relations between the two neighbors strained further amid disputes over tariffs and NATO spending.

What to expect in Oregon’s primaries, from ballot rules to key races

2026-05-18

Oregon voters vote Tuesday in Democratic and Republican primaries for state and federal offices and a statewide ballot measure, while Democrats and Republicans choose nominees in separate contests. The Associated Press notes that Oregon elections are conducted predominantly by mail, with ballots due by 8 p.m. local time and counted over multiple days. The primaries also unfold with national politics in the background as Gov. Tina Kotek campaigns against President Donald Trump and voters weigh Measure 120’s proposal to raise gas taxes and vehicle fees for transportation improvements.

Alabama to hold primaries in three districts as redistricting delays four others

2026-05-18

Only three of Alabama's seven congressional districts will hold binding primaries Tuesday, the Associated Press reported, following a U.S. Supreme Court decision that prompted Republican-led state governments across the South to discard existing congressional maps. Elections in the four remaining districts have been postponed until August 11 while Alabama officials restore prior Republican-drawn boundaries.

Hungary blocks EU sanctions on Russia over oil deliveries

2026-05-18

Hungary said it would block the European Union's 20th sanctions package against Russia unless Russian oil shipments resumed through a pipeline crossing Ukraine. The announcement, delivered by Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó in a video posted to social media, threatened to derail the bloc's coordinated response to Moscow's invasion. Szijjártó declared that Hungary would withhold consent from the sanctions, which require unanimity from all 27 EU member states. Hungary also announced it would block a 90-billion-euro ($106-billion) EU loan package intended to help Ukraine meet military and economic needs for the next two years.

Judge refuses to block DHS policy on Congressional ICE visits

2026-05-18

A federal judge Monday refused to block a Department of Homeland Security policy requiring members of Congress to provide a week's notice before visiting Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facilities. The decision came after three Democratic representatives from Minnesota — Ilhan Omar, Kelly Morrison and Angie Craig — were turned away from an ICE facility near Minneapolis early this month, three days after an ICE officer shot and killed U.S. citizen Renee Good in the city.

Poland withdraws from antipersonnel mine ban to defend against Russia

2026-05-18

In February, Poland officially withdrew from the 1997 Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty—also known as the Ottawa Convention—announcing it will manufacture antipersonnel mines to defend its eastern border against Russia. The decision reverses Poland's commitment to the international agreement, which it ratified in 2012 and was in full compliance with until the withdrawal.

Supreme Court likely to strike down Hawaii gun restrictions

2026-05-18

The Supreme Court appeared likely on Tuesday to strike down Hawaii's law restricting who can carry guns into stores, malls, and hotels, marking the justices' latest gun-rights case since their landmark 2022 decision expanding Second Amendment protections. The Trump administration backed the legal challenge to the measure, which Hawaii said aims to protect private property owners' right to decide whether firearms are allowed on their land.

White House correspondents’ dinner rescheduling debated after Trump attack

2026-05-18

The White House Correspondents’ Association says it is still weighing options to reschedule this year’s dinner after a gunman opened fire at the Washington Hilton in an attack prosecutors said was meant to kill President Donald Trump. More than three weeks later, the WHCA has not announced a date, while some journalists and ethics experts argue the event should not return in any form.

New York Times sues Pentagon again over journalist escort policy

2026-05-18

The New York Times sued the Pentagon on Monday for the second time in five months, arguing that a requirement that journalists be escorted while on Pentagon grounds violates the First Amendment. The paper filed the new case in federal court in Washington, seeking a ruling directly addressing the escort rule, which it says is intended to limit coverage to what Pentagon officials approve.

Trump administration moves to reopen Syria embassy after 14 years

2026-05-18

The Trump administration has informed Congress that it intends to proceed with planning for a potential reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Damascus, according to a State Department notification sent to congressional committees on Feb. 10. The embassy was shuttered in 2012 during Syria's civil war. The administration has pursued the initiative since longtime strongman Bashar Assad was ousted in December 2024, with the effort serving as a priority for President Donald Trump's special envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack.

South Carolina lawmakers debate redrawing House seats after Trump push

2026-05-18

South Carolina lawmakers on Monday opened a debate over changing the state's U.S. House districts, as Republicans seek a map they say could help them win every seat in the next Congress. The discussion came during a special session called by Gov. Henry McMaster after a U.S. Supreme Court decision weakened Voting Rights Act protections for some minority districts, prompting similar fights in other states.

Contractor indicted for leaking classified documents to Post reporter

2026-05-18

In late January, Pentagon contractor Aurelio Luis Perez-Lugones was indicted on charges he illegally removed and shared classified national defense information with a journalist. The indictment centers on documents he passed to a Washington Post reporter, a case that drew national attention after federal agents searched the reporter's home.

Rachel Maddow’s ‘Department of Fate’ to examine 150-year Justice Department history

2026-05-18

Rachel Maddow, the liberal MSNBC host and bestselling author, will publish a history of the U.S. Department of Justice titled “Department of Fate” on Nov. 10, Crown, a division of Penguin Random House, announced Monday. The book, arriving one week after this year’s midterm elections, promises to trace the DOJ’s 150-year record of “triumphs and misdeeds” from the Red Scare to cabinet scandals and the upheaval of norms during President Donald Trump’s second term, according to the publisher.

Trump adds more than 600 generic drugs to TrumpRx discount site

2026-05-18

President Donald Trump said Monday that more than 600 generic medications are being added to TrumpRx, the government’s discounted-drug website. The expansion, announced at the White House, would increase the site’s catalog nearly sevenfold beyond its initial launch in February.

Pennsylvania primary sets stage for Democrats to target four Republican House seats

2026-05-18

Washington (AP) — Democratic voters in Tuesday’s Pennsylvania primary will choose nominees in a race that could determine whether the party flips four Republican‑held U.S. House seats in the November 2026 midterms. The primaries also decide the tickets for lieutenant governor, the state Senate, the state House and a special election in the 196th House district.

Oregon voters reject gas tax increase amid soaring pump prices

2026-05-18

On May 19, 2026, Oregon voters rejected a 6‑cent‑per‑gallon gas‑tax increase and associated fees that Democratic lawmakers had passed the previous year, delivering a victory for Republicans who had mounted a referendum campaign amid soaring pump prices linked to the war in Iran. The measure, known as Measure 120, appeared on the ballot after Republican state Sen. Bruce Starr, who helped lead the campaign, said Oregonians were “not surprised” by the outcome. The rejection came as Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek and U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley easily won their primaries, while Republican state Sen. Christine Drazan secured the GOP gubernatorial nomination.

Idaho primaries Tuesday: key races, voting rules, and when polls close

2026-05-18

Idaho voters will head to the polls Tuesday for state primaries that determine Republican and Democratic nominees for federal and statewide offices, setting the stage for the November general election, the Associated Press reports. Polls close at 8 p.m. local time, with different cutoff times across Idaho’s time zones. The AP’s decision notes also break down who can vote in each party’s primary, the size of Idaho’s registered voter base, and what to expect from early ballot releases and vote-counting.

DOJ announces nearly $1.8B “Anti-Weaponization Fund” for Trump allies

2026-05-18

The Justice Department announced Monday that it has created a nearly $1.8 billion fund to compensate people who say they were unjustly investigated or prosecuted in connection with the Trump administration’s IRS tax-returns lawsuit. The department said the “Anti-Weaponization Fund” is part of a settlement that resolves President Donald Trump’s case tied to a leak of his tax returns. Democrats and watchdogs called the deal “corrupt” and unconstitutional.

New England grid operator forecasts slower growth in electricity demand

2026-05-18

ISO New England projected on May 1 that electricity use across its grid will rise about 9% over the next decade, as more people adopt heat pumps and electric vehicles. The independent nonprofit’s latest annual forecast is more conservative than last year’s estimate, in part because of changes in federal climate and energy policies, the report said.

Tuesday primaries show Trump’s sway and Democrats’ momentum

2026-05-18

President Donald Trump won another Republican primary on Tuesday, unseating Rep. Thomas Massie in Kentucky and reinforcing a pattern in which Trump-backed candidates take control of GOP nominations. On the Democratic side, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro won primary races for multiple endorsed candidates, while Alabama primaries were partially voided after the state postponed voting in several districts.

Macron's Davos sunglasses spark viral memes and market surge

2026-05-18

In January, French President Emmanuel Macron wore sunglasses at the Davos summit to address a medical issue with his right eye, but the eyewear sparked viral memes, an AI-generated spoof video set to "Top Gun" music, and a stock jump for the glasses' French maker. U.S. President Donald Trump joked about the shades during his Davos address. "Those beautiful sunglasses," Trump said. "What the hell happened?" The moment illustrates how a single visual choice can become a global phenomenon with real economic consequences—all within days.

Post seeks court order for seized reporter's devices

2026-05-18

The Washington Post filed a federal court petition on January 21 to recover electronic devices the FBI seized from reporter Hannah Natanson's Virginia home, arguing the search violated her free speech rights and journalistic protections. A magistrate judge temporarily barred the government from examining the materials and scheduled a February 6 hearing. The agents seized a phone, two laptops, a recorder, a portable hard drive and a smartwatch during the search, which was part of an investigation into a Pentagon contractor accused of illegally handling classified information.

Families protest Texas detention of 5-year-old boy and father

2026-05-18

Immigrant families protested Saturday at a Texas detention facility where a 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy and his father are being held after their detention in Minnesota this week. Dozens of families gathered at the South Texas Family Residential Center in Dilley, holding signs reading 'Libertad para los niños'—'Liberty for the kids'—and calling for freedom for children, according to aerial photographs obtained by the Associated Press.

ICE memo authorizes forced entry to homes without judicial warrants

2026-05-18

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency has authorized agents to force entry into homes and arrest immigrants using only administrative warrants, bypassing the judicial oversight required by the Fourth Amendment, according to an internal memo obtained by the Associated Press. The May 12, 2025 memorandum, signed by interim ICE Director Todd Lyons, represents a dramatic departure from longstanding policy that has guided immigration enforcement for years. Immigrant advocacy groups, legal aid organizations, and local governments have for years advised immigrants not to open doors to immigration agents without a court-ordered warrant signed by a judge. The policy shift comes as the Trump administration has dramatically escalated immigration enforcement, deploying thousands of additional agents in what it describes as a campaign for mass deportation.

Japan's last pandas depart as China ties worsen

2026-05-18

Japan's last two giant pandas left Tokyo's Ueno Zoo on Tuesday, ending 50 years of panda presence in the country and marking a symbolic loss amid deteriorating diplomatic relations between Japan and China. The twins, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei—born at the zoo in 2021—returned to China as strained ties between Tokyo and Beijing reach their lowest point in years.

Trump offers hospital ship to Greenland; island leaders decline

2026-05-18

President Donald Trump announced in February that he would deploy a hospital ship to Greenland, saying many people there are sick and not receiving care. Greenlandic and Danish leaders swiftly rejected the offer, defending their free public healthcare system and questioning both its necessity and feasibility.

Video contradicts federal account of Minneapolis nurse's death

2026-05-18

In January, Border Patrol officers shot and killed Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis. Trump administration officials quickly characterized Pretti as an armed threat intent on harming agents. But bystander video obtained by The Associated Press contradicts key elements of that account.

USA Today owner announces plan to acquire Detroit News, ending 36-year partnership

2026-05-18

USA Today Co., owner of the Detroit Free Press, announced on January 26, 2026, that it plans to acquire The Detroit News, consolidating two major Detroit newspapers under a single owner. The deal ends an almost 40-year joint operating agreement between the papers and is being funded through cash and financing from Apollo Global Management, a private equity firm. The acquisition was expected to close by the end of January 2026.

Trump retribution ends Cassidy's Senate career five years after impeachment vote

2026-05-17

Sen. Bill Cassidy placed third in Louisiana's Republican Senate primary on Saturday, ending his reelection bid five years after he voted to convict President Donald Trump in the Jan. 6 impeachment trial — a vote Republican primary voters never forgave, despite Cassidy's years-long effort to align himself with Trump's agenda. Trump-endorsed U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow finished first and will face former Trump administration official John Fleming in a June 27 runoff for the Republican nomination.

Cassidy loses Louisiana GOP primary after Trump impeachment rift

2026-05-17

The political fallout from Bill Cassidy’s impeachment vote against President Donald Trump came into focus as Cassidy failed to advance in Louisiana’s Republican Senate primary. Charles Wandfluh, who supported U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow, said Cassidy’s approach left him trying to stay close to Trump after voting to convict him. Trump backed Letlow, praising her victory and declaring Cassidy’s political career over in a post on social media.

Bus riders retrace 1965 civil rights march to renew fight after ruling

2026-05-17

In Montgomery, Ala., bus riders from Georgia retraced the route of a 1965 voting-rights march to renew pressure after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling limited how race can be considered in drawing congressional districts, according to the Associated Press. Participants stepped off in Dexter Avenue, where the original march ended, and said the effort was about moving forward for their families and communities.

Iran rejects US uranium demands, says talks stalled on maximalist stance

2026-05-17

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said Saturday that Iran is not ready to resume face-to-face negotiations with the United States, citing Washington's refusal to abandon "maximalist" demands on key issues. Speaking at a diplomacy forum in Antalya, Turkey, Khatibzadeh rejected a Trump administration proposal to secure Iran's enriched uranium, saying "no enriched material is going to be shipped to United States."

Judge blocks above-ground work on Trump's White House ballroom

2026-05-17

In April, Federal Judge Richard Leon ruled that above-ground construction of a $400 million White House ballroom cannot proceed without congressional approval, restricting work to below-ground facilities including a bunker and national security infrastructure planned for the site where the East Wing was demolished.

Border wall construction desecrates sacred Indigenous sites, tribal leaders say

2026-05-17

Federal contractors are blasting and bulldozing Native American sacred sites — including a mountain revered by the Kumeyaay Nation, a 1,000-year-old geoglyph in Arizona, and a shrine atop a New Mexico peak — as the Trump administration accelerates border wall construction under waivers of environmental and cultural laws, tribal leaders and government records show.

Indigenous leaders decry US border-wall work desecrating sacred sites

2026-05-17

Indigenous leaders on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border say federal contractors blasting and bulldozing for new border-wall sections have damaged or desecrated sacred and cultural sites, including Kuuchamaa Mountain in California. The Associated Press reported that the construction has accelerated after the U.S. Department of Homeland Security waived cultural and environmental laws.

Experts share strategies to rebuild attention spans shrinking to 47 seconds

2026-05-17

The average person's attention span when viewing a single screen has fallen to 47 seconds, down from 2.5 minutes in 2004, according to decades of research. Psychiatrists and cognitive scientists say the decline is driven by constant notifications, 24/7 news cycles, and the deliberate design of social media platforms — but also that it can be reversed through intentional practice.

Supreme Court rejects challenges to Medicare drug price negotiations

2026-05-17

The Supreme Court rejected appeals from pharmaceutical companies seeking to block Medicare negotiations with the federal government for certain prescription drugs. The justices did not comment, leaving in place rulings that had dismissed the manufacturers’ claims.

Thousands rally in Montgomery against voting rights rollbacks, calling Supreme Court ruling a 'moral disgrace'

2026-05-17

Thousands gathered at the Alabama State Capitol in Montgomery on Saturday, May 16, 2026, returning to a cradle of the Civil Rights Movement to protest a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that further weakened the Voting Rights Act. The ruling has triggered a rush by conservative states to redraw congressional districts, including one in Alabama that had secured Black political representation.

Australian journalist Cheng Lei transforms China prison trauma into memoir, play

2026-05-17

CHENG LEI, a 50-year-old Chinese-born Australian television journalist, spent 1,154 days in Chinese custody — much of it in a shared cell under constant surveillance — before being deported in October 2023. Now, in a new memoir and an upcoming stage production, “1154 Days,” she is offering a rare, firsthand account of the pressure tactics, isolation, and psychological toll of China’s secretive prison system, and how she rebuilt her life through writing, stand-up comedy, and a return to journalism.

Supreme Court orders review of Native American Voting Rights Act ruling

2026-05-17

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday sent back a closely watched Voting Rights Act case brought by Native American tribes, telling lower courts to reconsider a ruling that limited how the law can be enforced. The justices said the appeals court decision conflicted with earlier precedent after a separate Supreme Court ruling weakened enforcement of the Civil Rights-era law.

DOJ announces nearly $1.8B fund to compensate Trump allies over tax leak

2026-05-17

The Justice Department announced Monday it is creating an Anti-Weaponization Fund of $1.776 billion as part of a settlement that would resolve President Donald Trump’s lawsuit against the IRS over a leak of his tax returns. The department said people who believe they were unfairly investigated and prosecuted for political purposes can apply for payouts overseen by a five-member commission. Democrats and government watchdogs criticized the deal as “corrupt” and unconstitutional.

Georgia Republicans scramble to challenge Sen. Jon Ossoff in November

2026-05-17

Georgia Republicans are competing in a Tuesday primary to choose a nominee to take on Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff in November, as the party worries its chances are tighter than in past Senate races. Rep. Mike Collins, Rep. Buddy Carter and Derek Dooley, backed by outgoing Gov. Brian Kemp, are each aiming to position themselves for a general election against Ossoff.

Georgia voters pick GOP governor and Senate nominees in Tuesday primaries

2026-05-17

Voting ends in Georgia Tuesday in competitive Republican primaries for governor and a U.S. Senate seat that could shape the balance of the chamber in the Nov. 2026 elections, with runoff odds if no candidate wins a majority, the Associated Press reports. Polls close at 7 p.m. ET, and Republicans are seeking nominations to succeed term-limited Gov. Brian Kemp and to challenge first-term Sen. Jon Ossoff.

Idaho primaries: Risch, Little face GOP fields as Democrats pick challengers

2026-05-17

Idaho voters will hold primary elections Tuesday that will determine party nominees for U.S. Senate, House and several statewide offices, a step in setting up the 2026 general election, the Associated Press Decision Notes reported. Polls close at 8 p.m. local time (10 p.m. ET for much of the state, 11 p.m. ET in Pacific time counties), and the AP said it will declare winners only when a trailing candidate can no longer catch up.

Kentucky primaries Tuesday: Massie faces challenge in KY-4 and Senate race

2026-05-17

Kentucky voters head to the polls Tuesday for party primaries that will determine nominees for U.S. Senate, five U.S. House seats and the state General Assembly, plus a mayoral race in Louisville. U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie, a frequent Trump critic, faces Ed Gallrein in the Republican primary in Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District.

Oregon voters weigh Democratic and Republican primaries, Measure 120

2026-05-17

Oregon’s Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek and a large field of challengers face voters Tuesday in a primary that also includes a statewide ballot measure, Measure 120. Voters will choose nominees for governor, the U.S. Senate and House seats, state Senate and state House races, and a nonpartisan state labor commissioner contest, as well as decide whether to raise gas taxes and vehicle fees to fund transportation projects.

South Carolina House debates redistricting for U.S. House seat gains

2026-05-17

South Carolina lawmakers on Monday began a first, full airing of a redistricting plan for U.S. House districts, as Republicans weigh how to pursue a statewide map that could help deliver additional GOP seats in the 2026 midterms. The debate unfolded during a special session in the state House in Columbia and included discussion of how quickly election rules and procedures would change under a new congressional map.

Thousands rally in Montgomery to defend Black voting power after SCOTUS

2026-05-17

Thousands of people rallied Saturday in Montgomery, Alabama, pushing back against state efforts to dismantle congressional districts they say help secure Black political representation after the U.S. Supreme Court weakened the Voting Rights Act. The event, held in the shadow of the Alabama Capitol where civil rights leaders including Martin Luther King Jr. spoke, included remarks from Bernice King and members of Congress.

What to expect in Alabama’s primaries amid map-triggered delays

2026-05-17

Alabama voters head to the polls Tuesday for primaries in several state races and selected congressional districts, following a U.S. Supreme Court decision that disrupted parts of the state’s congressional maps. In the races moved to August, elections were postponed to an Aug. 11 special primary as officials restore a prior set of Republican-drawn district boundaries. Polls close at 7 p.m. Central (8 p.m. Eastern).

Transgender athlete leans into track season as Supreme Court case nears decision

2026-05-17

In April, Becky Pepper-Jackson, a transgender high school track and field athlete, was focused on her season at Bridgeport High School in West Virginia despite knowing the Supreme Court could end her ability to compete on a girls' team. The court is expected to rule by early summer on whether states can ban transgender girls from competing in female sports—a case in which Pepper-Jackson, a sophomore, is the centerpiece.

France, Britain to lead multinational Hormuz security mission

2026-05-17

In mid-April, leaders of France and Britain announced plans to assemble a multinational maritime security force in the Strait of Hormuz, seeking to ensure permanent freedom of navigation in a waterway that carries a fifth of the world's oil. The initiative, announced at a Paris gathering of roughly 50 countries and international organizations, would operate independently of the U.S.-Israeli military campaign in Iran and would deploy 'as soon as conditions allow,' according to Prime Minister Keir Starmer of Britain.

Trump administration officials join Christian prayer service on National Mall

2026-05-17

President Donald Trump’s administration held a conservative Christian prayer gathering on the National Mall Sunday as part of celebrations for the nation’s 250th birthday. The event, organized by Freedom 250 with work involving the White House, featured speeches in video messages from Trump and other administration officials, along with remarks from members of Congress and faith leaders.

White House backs “Rededicate 250” prayer on National Mall

2026-05-17

The White House has designated Sunday as the date for a daylong prayer event on the National Mall, organized with private church organizations and federal agencies, NPR reported. The event, called “Rededicate 250,” marks the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding and has drawn concern from religious scholars about church-state separation. NPR’s Ayesha Rascoe spoke with Georgetown religious studies scholar Matthew D. Taylor about the ideology behind the program.

WHCA still weighs rescheduling White House correspondents’ dinner after attack

2026-05-17

More than three weeks after a man stormed the Washington Hilton lobby and fired shots during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, the association has not set a date for a rescheduled event. WHCA president Weijia Jiang said the group is “continues to weigh options for rescheduling the event,” while critics and security experts argue over whether the dinner should be held again and, if so, where it can be done safely.

Trump administration voter-eligibility checks raise purge fears ahead of midterms

2026-05-17

The Trump administration has run millions of voter registrations through a Homeland Security eligibility verification program, as Democratic officials and voting rights advocates challenge the effort in court. Critics say the process—designed to flag potential noncitizens—could lead to valid voters being removed or delayed from voting before the November elections.

Peru's electoral board confirms presidential runoff between Fujimori and Sánchez

2026-05-17

Peru’s National Elections Board on Sunday officially confirmed the results of the April presidential election, setting a June 7 runoff between Keiko Fujimori of the right-wing Fuerza Popular party and Roberto Sánchez of the leftist Juntos por el Perú. The confirmation came after the final vote count showed Fujimori leading with 2.8 million votes (17.19%) and Sánchez placing second with 2.015 million votes (12.03%), leaving well over half the electorate looking elsewhere.

Colorado enacts first paid NICU leave law as parents push for federal protections

2026-05-17

Colorado became the first U.S. state to adopt paid neonatal intensive care leave in January, offering parents up to 12 additional weeks when a newborn requires intensive care. A more modest unpaid leave measure takes effect in Illinois next month, and advocates are now pressing for a federal bill to add NICU protections to the Family and Medical Leave Act.

Pennsylvania primary elections set for Tuesday, with key House races in focus

2026-05-17

Pennsylvania Democrats and Republicans vote Tuesday in party primaries that will set nominees for competitive U.S. House seats and statewide offices, with polls closing at 8 p.m. ET. The Associated Press decision notes highlight that Democrats are seeking four Republican-held districts they view as critical for their effort to retake the House in November.

Parents push for NICU leave after wins in Colorado and Illinois

2026-05-17

As neonatal intensive care unit, or NICU, stays lengthen after difficult births, parents across the U.S. say they need guaranteed time to care for their newborns. Colorado became the first state to adopt paid NICU leave in January, offering up to 12 weeks, and Illinois is set to begin providing 10 to 20 days of unpaid leave next month.

Hong Kong Tiananmen vigil organizers’ national security trial nears end

2026-05-17

A Hong Kong court is hearing final arguments Monday in the national security trial of two former organizers of the large Tiananmen Square crackdown vigils, with prosecutors seeking convictions under a Beijing-imposed law. Chow Hang-tung and Lee Cheuk-yan have pleaded not guilty and could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted, as the judges have not yet indicated when they will deliver a verdict.

Costa Rica receives second group of US deportees under Trump agreement

2026-05-17

Costa Rica received a second group of migrants deported from the United States in April under a bilateral agreement negotiated by the Trump administration. The group of 30 deportees included eight Costa Ricans, eight Brazilians, three Romanians, and nationals from Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, China, Ireland, India, Vietnam, and Belarus.

Police investigate 56 bodies dumped at Trinidad cemetery

2026-05-17

Police in Trinidad and Tobago said they are investigating after 56 bodies—50 of them infants—were found dumped at a cemetery in Cumuto on Saturday. The discovery comes as authorities extend a state of emergency due to surging gang violence and crime.

Eight GOP governors push Turning Point clubs into all public high schools

2026-05-17

Eight Republican governors have announced partnerships to establish Turning Point USA chapters in every public high school in their states, an effort they describe as countering the suppression of conservative voices in education. The push has intensified following the assassination of Turning Point co-founder Charlie Kirk and has stirred debate about free speech protections and the proper scope of government backing in schools.

FDA drug voucher program stirs safety concerns after patient death, staff exodus

2026-05-17

The Food and Drug Administration's new drug review voucher program is facing questions about its safety record and long-term viability after a patient died while taking one of the drugs enrolled in the initiative, and as roughly one-fifth of the agency's drug center staff have departed over the past year.

Jury selected in Weinstein rape retrial

2026-05-17

In late April, jury selection concluded in Harvey Weinstein's third rape trial in New York. A jury of seven men and five women was chosen to decide whether the 73-year-old former Hollywood producer raped a woman at a Manhattan hotel in 2013. The trial, with opening statements scheduled to begin, was expected to last up to four weeks.

Justice Department demands 2024 Michigan election ballots

2026-05-17

The U.S. Department of Justice on April 14 demanded that Michigan's Wayne County turn over all ballots from the 2024 presidential election, marking an expansion of federal election record requests to swing states that Trump won. Harmeet K. Dhillon, head of the DOJ's Civil Rights Division, justified the demand by citing three instances of fraudulent votes in 2020 and a civil lawsuit over absentee ballot processing. Michigan officials immediately contested the move. Attorney General Dana Nessel called it "weaponizing the Justice Department" and "an attempt to interfere in state elections." Governor Gretchen Whitmer said the demand "is a poorly disguised attempt to justify more doubt and misinformation about our elections as well as direct federal interference."

Mexican families search cartel lands for missing as government lags

2026-05-17

In a Mexican state rife with drug cartel violence, civilian search groups dig through suspected grave sites, conducting the investigations that authorities have largely abandoned. More than 130,000 people have been reported missing in Mexico since 2006, according to official records, yet families of the missing have become the primary force searching for them. One group, the Guerreros Buscadores — the "Searching Warriors" — works in Jalisco state, a stronghold of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

Trump seeks 90-day pause on $10B IRS lawsuit over tax leak

2026-05-17

President Donald Trump's lawyers are in talks with the Internal Revenue Service to resolve a $10 billion lawsuit the president filed against his own tax collection agency. In a Friday federal court filing, Trump's legal team asked a judge to pause the case for 90 days while the two sides explore settlement options. The lawsuit stems from the leak of Trump's confidential tax records to news outlets between 2018 and 2020.

Senate parliamentarian blocks $1 billion White House security from immigration bill

2026-05-16

The Senate parliamentarian has ruled that a proposed $1 billion package for White House security enhancements, including funding connected to President Donald Trump’s new ballroom, cannot be included in the Republican immigration enforcement budget bill under Senate rules, dealing a setback to GOP plans. The ruling, described by Senate Democrats on Saturday night, forces Republicans to revise the narrow budget reconciliation bill, which would fund immigration agencies and border operations through the end of Trump’s term. Democrats celebrated the decision and vowed to fight any future attempts to add the security money.

Senate parliamentarian blocks $1B White House security add-on tied to ballroom

2026-05-16

The Senate parliamentarian ruled that a proposal to provide $1 billion in White House security additions — including for President Donald Trump’s new ballroom — cannot be included in a narrow Republican budget bill, Democrats said on Saturday. The ruling threatens GOP plans to move the funding through a process that requires only a simple majority.

Putin to visit Chinese leader Xi Jinping days after Trump’s trip to Beijing

2026-05-16

Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing on Monday and Tuesday, the Kremlin announced Saturday, less than 24 hours after U.S. President Donald Trump wrapped up his own state visit to China. The two-day trip, scheduled to coincide with the 25th anniversary of the 2001 Sino-Russian Treaty of Friendship, will focus on bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and “key international and regional issues,” the Kremlin said, as Moscow deepens its reliance on Beijing amid Western sanctions over the war in Ukraine.

Netanyahu spotlights covert UAE ties; Abu Dhabi pushes back with rare denial

2026-05-16

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly claimed a quiet wartime visit to the United Arab Emirates this week, drawing a swift denial from Abu Dhabi's state news agency and exposing the strains beneath an alliance both countries have carefully managed since normalizing relations in 2020.

Rep. Steve Cohen ends campaign after redraw of Memphis district

2026-05-16

Democratic Rep. Steve Cohen of Tennessee said Friday he is ending his bid for reelection, citing redistricting changes to his Memphis-based district after a Supreme Court ruling that weakened federal Voting Rights Act protections. Cohen, a long-serving Democrat, said he will challenge the new map in court and would reenter the race if the lawsuit succeeds in restoring his previous district.

Putin to visit Xi in Beijing days after Trump’s trip

2026-05-16

Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet Chinese leader Xi Jinping on a two-day trip to Beijing on May 19-20, the Kremlin said Saturday. The announcement came less than 24 hours after U.S. President Donald Trump finished his state visit to China, where he also met Xi.

Rep. Steve Cohen ending campaign after redraw of his Memphis district

2026-05-16

Democratic Rep. Steve Cohen of Tennessee announced Friday he is ending his campaign for reelection after Republican legislators drew a new congressional map that dismantles his majority-Black Memphis district to benefit the GOP in the November midterm elections. 'I don't want to quit. I'm not a quitter. But these districts were drawn to beat me,' Cohen told reporters in his Washington office.

Ex-Sinaloa security chief surrenders to U.S., first of 10 indicted officials

2026-05-16

Gerardo Mérida Sánchez, the former public security secretary of Mexico’s Sinaloa state, appeared in a federal court in Manhattan on Friday, becoming the first of 10 indicted current and former Mexican officials to surrender to American authorities on charges of taking bribes to help the Sinaloa Cartel smuggle massive quantities of drugs into the United States.

Trump says Xi will consider detained pastor’s case, but freeing Lai is ‘tough’

2026-05-16

President Donald Trump said Friday that Chinese President Xi Jinping told him he would give “serious consideration” to releasing detained pastor Ezra Jin Mingri, but described the case of imprisoned pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai as a “tough one” during their meeting in China. Trump relayed the exchange to reporters while returning from the trip, and the families of both men expressed gratitude for the administration’s intervention.

Wes Streeting launches bid to oust Starmer, become UK prime minister

2026-05-16

LONDON — Wes Streeting, the former health secretary, announced Saturday his intention to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership of the Labour Party, formally launching a bid to become Britain’s next prime minister. Streeting, 43, is the first Labour member of Parliament to declare he will contest the party’s top post after a disastrous showing in local elections and weeks of turmoil that have left Starmer’s government struggling.

Jerome Powell steps down as Fed chair after eight years defending central bank independence

2026-05-16

Jerome Powell has stepped down as chair of the Federal Reserve after eight years marked by a post-pandemic inflation surge, the sharpest interest rate increases in decades, and persistent clashes with the Trump White House over the central bank's autonomy. Powell was named chair pro tempore on Friday until his successor Kevin Warsh is sworn in, and said he will remain on the governing board until he is confident the Fed's independence is fully restored.

Trump returns from Chinese state visit to face inflation and affordability pressure

2026-05-16

President Donald Trump returned from a Chinese state visit to economic pressure at home, with consumer inflation rising to 3.8% in April, according to the U.S. Labor Department’s data as reported by The Associated Press. As voters head into primaries before the November general election, Trump’s trip to Beijing and his remarks about Iran and trade deals are fueling debate over how he will address rising prices.

Alaska Legislature rejects Stephen Cox as attorney general nominee

2026-05-16

The Alaska Legislature rejected Stephen Cox as attorney general in a joint session on Thursday, voting 29-31. Opponents questioned Cox’s actions as acting attorney general, including turning over confidential voter data to the federal government and supporting out-of-state conservative lawsuits. Supporters cited his legal experience and said they were impressed by meetings with him.

Argentina’s beef demand drops as Milei austerity lifts meat prices

2026-05-16

Beef consumption in Argentina has fallen to its lowest level in two decades as households cut back amid sharply higher beef prices and weaker purchasing power under libertarian President Javier Milei. In Buenos Aires, some butchers and consumers say they are shifting toward chicken and pork as red meat becomes harder to afford.

X pledges to crack down on hate speech and terrorist content in Britain, Ofcom says

2026-05-16

Elon Musk's social media platform X has committed to restricting access in the United Kingdom to accounts linked to banned terrorist groups and to reviewing flagged hate and terrorist content within 24 hours on average, the UK media regulator Ofcom announced Friday. The pledges follow mounting pressure over hate crimes targeting Britain's Jewish community and separate investigations into X's handling of illegal AI-generated imagery.

Senate calls tech CEOs to testify on social media risks to children

2026-05-16

The Senate Judiciary Committee has summoned the chief executives of Meta, Alphabet, TikTok, and Snap to testify at a June 23 hearing on the platforms’ effects on children, as a wave of court rulings and public advocacy sharpens accountability pressure on the industry.

Spain’s Eurovision Boycott Over Israeli Participation Divides Contest Fans

2026-05-16

MADRID — For the first time in seven years, Silvia Díaz won’t gather with friends to watch the Eurovision Song Contest finals Saturday night after Spain’s public broadcaster withdrew from the competition to protest Israel’s participation amid the war in Gaza. The boycott, joined by Ireland, Slovenia, the Netherlands, and Iceland, has split the normally exuberant Spanish fan base and left a noticeable absence in Vienna, where the contest is being held.

Civil rights groups rally in Alabama after Supreme Court weakens Voting Rights Act

2026-05-16

A multiracial coalition of civil rights organizations gathered in Alabama on Saturday to oppose recent congressional redistricting and defend Black political representation, following a U.S. Supreme Court decision that prohibits states from considering race when drawing electoral boundaries. NAACP President Derrick Johnson said the coalition must respond quickly to what he called an effort to "shrink us backwards into a 1950s reality."

Pentagon halts troop deployments to Poland, Germany to cut European footprint

2026-05-16

The Pentagon has canceled upcoming deployments of Army combat units to Poland and Germany, halting the movement of roughly 4,000 troops in a drawdown directed by the Trump administration to reduce the U.S. military footprint in Europe. U.S. officials say the move aligns with a recent presidential order to cut forces by approximately 5,000 following diplomatic friction over the Iran war.

Cartel drone attacks displace hundreds of Indigenous residents in Guerrero

2026-05-16

A wave of cartel drone and gunfire attacks on small Náhuatl towns in Guerrero state forced hundreds of Indigenous residents to flee their homes last week, leaving the elderly, wounded, and displaced sheltering under a basketball court while the government and local groups offered widely differing accounts of the crisis.

Kansas judge blocks gender-affirming care ban as Texas Children’s settles with state

2026-05-16

A Kansas judge blocked the state’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors on Friday, ruling the law likely violates the state constitution’s protection of parental rights. In Texas, the nation’s largest children’s hospital agreed to pay $10 million and fire doctors who provided such care to settle a years-long federal investigation.

Florida's new US House map faces court test over partisan gerrymandering ban

2026-05-16

A Florida judge heard arguments Friday over whether a newly enacted map of the state's U.S. House districts violates the Florida Constitution's ban on drawing political lines to favor one party, part of a mid-decade redistricting push urged by President Donald Trump that could reshape the fight for control of Congress.

Iran war fuel disruption pushes India, Southeast Asia toward biofuel blends

2026-05-16

Governments across India and Southeast Asia are accelerating plans to blend transportation fuels with agricultural biofuels after the Iran war disrupted crude oil and liquefied petroleum gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked residents to conserve fuel as domestic prices rise and regional supply chains strain under the conflict.

X promises to crack down on hate and terrorist content in Britain

2026-05-16

X has pledged to crack down on hate and terrorist content in Britain, the country’s media regulator said. Ofcom said the platform will restrict access in the U.K. to accounts operated by or on behalf of terrorist groups banned in the country and will review suspected illegal content within set timeframes after users flag it.

Trump to build National Garden of American Heroes near National Mall

2026-05-16

President Donald Trump said he plans to build the National Garden of American Heroes, an exhibit of statues honoring 250 prominent Americans, in West Potomac Park near the National Mall. In a Friday social media post, Trump described the site as prime waterfront real estate and said the project will be built as part of the nation’s 250th-anniversary commemorations.

Supreme Court rejects Virginia bid to restore Democrats’ congressional map

2026-05-16

The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Virginia’s request to restore a mid-decade congressional map drawn by Democrats, leaving the state to use its existing districts for the 2026 elections. The justices issued the decision on Friday, a move Virginia Democrats said nullified votes cast by more than 3 million voters in an April 21 special election.

Spain boycott over Israel at Eurovision leaves fans split

2026-05-16

The Spanish public broadcaster RTVE has withdrawn from this weekend’s Eurovision Song Contest finals in protest of Israel’s participation, prompting Spain to boycott the event for the first time in seven years. Fans in Madrid and elsewhere said the decision has left them torn between taking a stand and losing a cherished tradition.

Civil rights leaders plan Alabama rally to defend Black voting power

2026-05-16

Civil rights leaders and lawmakers are planning rallies and tribute events in Alabama this weekend, aiming to counter a legal shift that further weakened the Voting Rights Act’s protections for race-conscious redistricting. The groups’ push follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision that limited when states may consider race in drawing congressional and other political districts. NAACP President Derrick Johnson said Saturday’s events are meant to respond quickly and prevent a rollback of Black political representation.

Pentagon halts troops heading to Poland and Germany to cut numbers in Europe

2026-05-16

The Pentagon is canceling deployments of thousands of U.S. troops to Poland and Germany as part of a plan to reduce the number of American forces in Europe, U.S. officials told The Associated Press. The canceled movements include 4,000 troops from an Army brigade that had been headed to Poland, officials said.

ICE releases wife of US Army sergeant from federal custody in Texas

2026-05-16

The wife of a U.S. Army sergeant has been released from federal immigration custody after spending about a month in detention, the Department of Homeland Security said. Deisy Rivera Ortega was detained after an April 14 appointment with immigration services, according to her husband. U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth said she contacted the Homeland Security secretary after learning of Rivera Ortega’s case and that the woman returned home Thursday evening.

Trump-backed Letlow and Fleming advance to Louisiana Senate runoff

2026-05-16

Julia Letlow and John Fleming advanced Saturday in Louisiana’s Republican Senate primary, with Sen. Bill Cassidy failing to qualify for a runoff. Letlow will face Fleming in a runoff June 27 after both capitalized on President Donald Trump’s political influence as he presses party loyalty ahead of midterm elections, according to the Associated Press.

French judge to examine complaint against Saudi crown prince in Khashoggi case

2026-05-16

The French national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office said a French investigating judge will examine a complaint accusing Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of involvement in the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The office said the case was transferred to an investigating judge from France’s crimes against humanity unit after a May 11 ruling by the Paris Court of Appeal.

Montana mechanic Roberto Orozco-Ramirez freed after judge rules detention unlawful

2026-05-16

A federal judge ordered that a Montana diesel mechanic held on immigration charges be released from jail, ruling that his continued detention was unlawful. On Thursday morning, Roberto Orozco-Ramirez walked out of the Cascade County Detention Center in Great Falls and embraced his oldest son after more than 100 days behind bars.

France wants Palestinian activist Ramy Shaath deported, he says

2026-05-16

Palestinian activist Ramy Shaath said French authorities are seeking to deport him, accusing France of targeting him over pro-Palestinian activism. Shaath, 54, made the claim in a May 14 video statement posted online, saying the deportation move followed earlier difficulties renewing his residency paperwork and other disruptions.

Kentucky GOP rivals keep distance from McConnell in Senate primary

2026-05-16

Kentucky Republicans vying to replace retiring Sen. Mitch McConnell are calibrating their campaigns to keep him at arm’s length even as they acknowledge his continued influence. In Tuesday’s GOP primary, Rep. Andy Barr and former state Attorney General Daniel Cameron are competing for the nomination, with both stressing they are not trying to relitigate the senator’s legacy. Political scientist Stephen Voss said the candidates are walking a “razor’s edge” between staying loyal to McConnell and responding to voter unhappiness with the senator’s era of party politics.

Kansas judge blocks ban on gender-affirming care for minors while Texas settles

2026-05-16

Kansas District Court Judge Carl Folsom III on Friday blocked enforcement of the state’s ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors, saying it likely violates the Kansas Constitution. The ruling came as Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston agreed to a legal settlement with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office and the U.S. Department of Justice to restrict such care.

Louisiana primaries set for Saturday, with Cassidy facing Trump-backed challenge

2026-05-16

Louisiana voters head to the polls Saturday for a revamped primary election that includes a Republican contest for U.S. Senate featuring Sen. Bill Cassidy, state Treasurer John Fleming and U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow. The new schedule also includes primaries for state Supreme Court, the Public Service Commission and a state school board, along with five statewide constitutional amendments.

New Florida U.S. House map faces partisan gerrymandering claims

2026-05-16

Florida’s newly approved U.S. House map faced its first court challenge Friday, with attorneys for voters asking a judge to block the districts from being used in the midterm elections. They argued the map violates a 2010 state constitutional ban on partisan gerrymandering. The judge gave no timetable for a ruling.

Tech CEOs to face Senate again on children’s safety on social media

2026-05-16

Social media executives from Meta, Alphabet, TikTok and Snap have been invited to testify next month before the Senate Judiciary Committee as lawmakers and advocates push for protections for children and teens. The June 23 hearing was set by the committee’s chairman, Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley, and comes after recent court rulings that found social media companies liable in cases tied to young users’ harms.

Texas high court rejects effort to oust Democrats over redistricting walkout

2026-05-16

The Texas Supreme Court on Friday refused to declare that Democratic lawmakers who briefly left the state in 2025 to prevent a vote on new congressional maps had vacated their offices. The court rejected Gov. Greg Abbott and state Republicans’ attempt to severely punish more than 50 Democrats who bolted to New York, Illinois and Massachusetts, saying the Legislature handled the quorum problem itself.

Trump administration sues Catholic diocese to seize land for border barrier

2026-05-16

The Trump administration has sued a Catholic diocese in New Mexico to seize 14 acres near El Paso, aiming to build border barriers at the base of Mount Cristo Rey, a mountain that draws thousands to an annual pilgrimage. The diocese says the plan violates its First Amendment right to religious expression, warning that barriers would damage the site’s religious and cultural sanctity.

Alaska Legislature rejects Stephen Cox as attorney general by 29-31 vote

2026-05-16

The Alaska Legislature voted 29-31 on Thursday to reject Stephen Cox as the state's attorney general, making him only the second cabinet appointee in state history to fail confirmation. Opponents pointed to his sharing of confidential voter data with federal authorities, his support for more than 110 amicus briefs aligned with Trump administration policies, and his creation of new senior positions within the Department of Law shortly after pledging to tread lightly. Gov. Mike Dunleavy, who had appointed Cox acting attorney general last August, immediately named him counsel to the governor and elevated Deputy Attorney General Cori Mills to acting attorney general.

Colorado governor commutes Tina Peters’ sentence after Trump pressure

2026-05-16

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis commuted the prison sentence of former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters on Friday, releasing her on June 1. The Associated Press reported that Polis acted after pressure from President Donald Trump and that Trump had publicly championed Peters’ case.

California lawmakers rush $25 million grant to struggling hospitals

2026-05-16

California lawmakers on Thursday signed into law a $25 million grant program for cash-strapped public and nonprofit hospitals, moving so quickly that some hospitals and lawmakers learned of the application window only days before it opened. The grants are designed to tide eligible hospitals over until July 1, when the new fiscal year begins, though lawmakers said the criteria were too narrow and the budgeting timeline left key questions unanswered.

Vermont voters to decide equal protection amendment in November

2026-05-16

Vermont voters will have the chance to weigh in on an equal protection amendment to the state constitution this fall after the House gave final approval Wednesday. The proposal, which passed 128-14, would prohibit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or nationality.

Trump announces sculpture garden honoring 250 American heroes along National Mall

2026-05-16

President Donald Trump announced Friday that his administration will build the National Garden of American Heroes, a sculpture park featuring 250 statues of notable Americans, in West Potomac Park along the Potomac River. The plan, posted on social media, would place the new exhibit in a tightly regulated area of Washington’s monumental core and could bypass the multi-agency approval process required for major construction on or near the National Mall.

Colorado Gov. Polis commutes Tina Peters' sentence after Trump pressure

2026-05-16

Colorado Governor Jared Polis, a Democrat, commuted the nine-year prison sentence of former Mesa County clerk Tina Peters on Friday, granting her release effective June 1 and citing the sentence's unusual length for a first-time, nonviolent offender. The decision followed months of sustained pressure from President Donald Trump, who had publicly attacked Polis and directed his administration to restrict federal funding to Colorado over the case.

FDA Fires Acting Drug Center Director Amid Broader Shake-Up

2026-05-16

Dr. Tracy Beth Hoeg, the acting director of the FDA’s drug center who oversaw investigations into the safety of COVID-19 vaccines and antidepressants, was removed from her position Friday, according to an internal agency email obtained by the Associated Press. Her departure, which Hoeg confirmed in a social media post saying she was “fired,” is the latest in a series of leadership changes that have roiled the powerful regulatory agency.

Andy Burnham seeks return to Parliament as Labour’s top alternative to Starmer

2026-05-16

Andy Burnham, the popular mayor of Greater Manchester, will contest a special election in the Makerfield constituency in the coming weeks, opening a path to challenge embattled Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the leadership of the Labour Party. The election, expected within weeks, follows the resignation of Labour lawmaker Josh Simons, who stepped aside to make way for Burnham. Burnham, known as the “King of the North,” is seen as Starmer’s strongest rival, but he must first beat the ascendant anti-immigrant Reform UK party in a constituency where Labour’s wards all fell to Reform in this month’s local elections.

Antique muskets largely exempt from modern gun regulations

2026-05-16

Under federal law and the statutes of most U.S. states, antique firearms and their replicas are exempt from modern gun regulations, allowing even convicted felons in many jurisdictions to legally acquire and fire weapons dating to the Revolutionary and Civil War eras.

Fujimori, Sánchez face off in Peru presidential runoff after April election

2026-05-16

Keiko Fujimori and Roberto Sánchez will face off June 7 for Peru's presidency after final vote counts confirmed them as the top two finishers in April's election. Fujimori led with 17.18% of the vote against Sánchez's 12.03%, with both candidates campaigning to address surging crime in a country that has seen three presidents since October.

AP lays off 20 journalists, completing US restructuring pivot from print

2026-05-16

The Associated Press laid off 20 U.S.-based journalists on Friday, completing a restructuring announced last month that shifts the news organization’s focus away from print journalism and toward visual journalism and technology clients, the union representing AP staff said.

Democrats test red-state strategy: backing independents over own nominees

2026-05-16

Facing a party brand they acknowledge is toxic across much of red-state America, Democratic leaders are embracing a new strategy for the 2026 midterms: promoting independent candidates over their own party's nominees in several high-profile Senate and House races, party officials told The Associated Press.

Spanberger signs Virginia 'assault firearms' ban; gun-rights groups sue

2026-05-16

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed legislation Thursday banning the sale and manufacture of certain semi-automatic firearms, drawing immediate lawsuits from the National Rifle Association and other gun-rights organizations. The measure, which takes effect July 1, makes it a misdemeanor to buy, sell, or import “assault firearms” — defined to include semi-automatic rifles and pistols with magazines holding more than 15 rounds — and marks a sharp policy reversal from Republican former Governor Glenn Youngkin, who had vetoed similar bills. “Firearms designed to inflict maximum casualties do not belong on our streets,” Spanberger said.

Montana mechanic walks free after more than 100 days in jail on immigration charges

2026-05-16

A federal judge ordered the immediate release of Roberto Orozco-Ramirez, an undocumented diesel mechanic from Froid, Montana, on May 14, ruling that his detention of more than 100 days without bond violated his right to due process. Orozco-Ramirez walked out of the Cascade County Detention Center the next morning, embraced his son and began the drive home to the small town whose residents had raised tens of thousands of dollars for his legal defense.

France targets Palestinian activist for deportation, Ramy Shaath says

2026-05-16

Palestinian activist Ramy Shaath says French authorities are seeking to deport him on grounds he poses a threat to public security, accusing the government of targeting him for his pro-Palestinian activism. The Associated Press reported that Shaath, 54, made the allegation in a video statement posted online May 14, calling the move part of a broader campaign to silence Palestinian supporters in France.

Vermonters vote this fall on equal protection amendment to state constitution

2026-05-16

Vermont voters will decide this fall whether to amend the state constitution to add an equal protection provision, after the Legislature approved the measure this week. The proposal, PR.4, would require a statewide referendum on Nov. 3 and, if adopted, become the 23rd article of Vermont’s founding document. Supporters say it would build on the U.S. 14th Amendment’s equal protection clause by identifying groups that have faced discrimination, and critics raised concerns on the House floor as Republicans opposed the measure.

FDA removes Tracy Beth Hoeg as acting drug center director

2026-05-16

FDA has removed acting drug center director Tracy Beth Hoeg from her role, replacing her with deputy director Mike Davis, according to an email to agency staff obtained by The Associated Press. Hoeg later posted on social media that she was “fired.” The shake-up follows FDA Commissioner Marty Makary’s resignation earlier this week and Vinay Prasad’s departure last month.

Burnham seeks Labour leadership path by winning Makerfield by-election

2026-05-16

Labour’s Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, says he wants to return to Parliament and challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer, starting with a special election in Makerfield. The prospect hinges on Burnham winning a by-election that is expected within weeks, after a Labour lawmaker stepped aside to make room for him. The contest against Reform UK’s Nigel Farage could reshape the timing and dynamics of any Labour leadership fight, depending on the result.

How a low angle and fast lens shaped an AP photo of Jannik Sinner

2026-05-16

In an AP feature on “One Extraordinary Photo,” photographer Alessandra Tarantino described how she shot a low-angle, fast-lens image of Jannik Sinner at the Italian Open in Rome. Tarantino said she positioned herself under a court window to capture his expression after points, using a 50mm f/1.4 lens and fast shutter speeds to freeze the ball.

AP lays off 20 US-based journalists as it pivots from print

2026-05-16

The Associated Press laid off 20 U.S.-based journalists on Friday, according to the News Media Guild, as part of a restructuring announced last month that shifts the news organization away from print journalism and toward visual journalism and other revenue sources.

Mexico’s invisible displacement crisis as cartel violence displaces families

2026-05-16

Bombs and drone-fired explosives have forced residents of Tula in Mexico’s Guerrero state to flee, with many family members describing ruined homes, lingering fear and few resources to rebuild. The Associated Press visited people displaced after attacks by a cartel group known as Los Ardillos, as Mexico’s government deployed 1,200 military and police officers and said it had confirmed no deaths. Aid groups and rights advocates say the displacement crisis is broader and harder to track than official figures suggest.

Virginia bans “assault firearms” as gun-rights groups sue

2026-05-16

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed a law banning the sale and manufacture of certain semi-automatic firearms, setting off immediate lawsuits by gun-rights groups. The measure takes effect July 1 and makes it a misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine, for people to buy, sell, transfer, import or manufacture an “assault firearm.” Spanberger said the changes are meant to protect families and support law enforcement.

46 countries agree Chisinau Declaration on ECHR migration cases

2026-05-16

Dozens of European nations have agreed on a new interpretation of the European Convention on Human Rights in migration cases, including how the treaty applies to “return hubs” or other deportation arrangements in third countries. The non-binding political declaration was adopted at a meeting in Chisinau, Moldova, after calls for stricter approaches to irregular migration.

AI boom sparks state battles over utility profits and rising electricity bills

2026-05-16

In several U.S. states, governors, attorneys general and regulators are challenging proposed electric utility rate increases amid higher electricity bills that critics link to a surge in data-center demand from the artificial intelligence boom. Officials in at least six states have moved to block or reshape rate hikes, arguing that cash-strapped residents are being asked to pay for large utility profits while power grids face major modernization needs.

A musket not a firearm? Tell that to George Washington!

2026-05-16

With many antique and replica guns treated differently under federal and state law, a flintlock musket like the Brown Bess used by British troops in 1776 can fall outside what statutes call a “firearm” — even as it can fire lethal ammunition. The patchwork of exemptions and local rules has created confusion for collectors, reenactors and lawmakers, and can leave some convicted offenders able to possess certain antique weapons.

Democrats test red-state strategy by backing independents in some races

2026-05-16

Democratic leaders are testing a red-state strategy in this year’s midterm contest season, in some cases encouraging voters to choose independents rather than Democratic nominees. In Nebraska, Democrats selected Cindy Burbank for the U.S. Senate race while also saying the effort aims to prevent an independent candidate, Dan Osborn, from drawing more support from the Democratic party line on the fall ballot.

Ex-Sinaloa security chief faces US court after Mexico bribery allegations

2026-05-16

In a federal court appearance in Manhattan, Gerardo Mérida Sánchez, a former Sinaloa state secretary of public security, was ordered jailed after U.S. authorities charged him with helping the Sinaloa Cartel smuggle drugs into the United States. Mérida Sánchez, 66, has pleaded not required at his first appearance and is set to return to court on June 1. Mexico’s government said it has been maintaining communication with U.S. authorities through international cooperation mechanisms.

Keiko Fujimori and Roberto Sánchez to face off in Peru runoff June 7

2026-05-16

Keiko Fujimori and Roberto Sánchez will compete in Peru’s presidential runoff June 7 after finishing first and second in the April 12 election, according to the final vote count released Friday. Fujimori led with 17.18% and Sánchez finished second with 12.03%, with 100% of ballots counted.

Labour’s Wes Streeting announces bid to replace Keir Starmer as PM

2026-05-16

In Britain, Labour Party lawmaker Wes Streeting said Saturday that he will challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the party’s leadership, setting up what the Associated Press described as a likely internal contest that could reshape who leads the government. Streeting, the former health secretary, said “we need a proper contest” and that he would “be standing,” after months of growing questions about Starmer’s standing following losses for Labour in local and regional elections on May 7.

Russia eases citizenship rules for Transnistria residents, decree says

2026-05-16

Russia has approved measures to make it easier for permanent residents of Moldova’s breakaway region of Transnistria to obtain Russian citizenship, Russian state media reported May 15-16. The Kremlin said a new decree signed by President Vladimir Putin would allow adults to apply through a simplified process. The change would let applicants skip requirements to prove knowledge of Russian language, history and legislation, and would remove a five-year residency requirement in Russia.

Senate votes to withhold members' pay during government shutdowns

2026-05-15

The Senate voted unanimously Thursday to withhold senators' pay during government shutdowns, a measure aimed at forcing lawmakers to share the financial pain of federal closures after a year of record-breaking funding lapses. The resolution, sponsored by Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), will take effect after the November general election and applies only to the Senate, not the House.

Trump says he hasn’t decided on Taiwan arms after Xi objections

2026-05-15

U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday that he has not decided whether to move forward with a major arms package for Taiwan after hearing concerns about it from Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump made the remarks as he returned to Washington following critical talks in Beijing that both sides said helped stabilize U.S.-China relations amid deep disagreements over Iran and Taiwan.

Senators approve withholding their own pay during shutdowns

2026-05-15

Senators unanimously approved a resolution Thursday to withhold senators’ pay during government shutdowns, in an effort to make closures financially painful for lawmakers. The plan would be triggered when a shutdown affects one or more Senate agencies and would take effect the day after the Nov. 3 general election.

FBI Director Patel took VIP snorkel at Pearl Harbor memorial

2026-05-15

FBI Director Kash Patel participated in a "VIP snorkel" over the sunken USS Arizona at Pearl Harbor in August 2025, according to government emails obtained by The Associated Press. The excursion was not disclosed by the FBI, which had highlighted Patel's visit to its Honolulu field office and meetings with local law enforcement while omitting his two-day return to the island after official visits to Australia and New Zealand.

Louisiana Senate approves new House map eliminating majority-Black district

2026-05-15

Louisiana’s state Senate passed a congressional redistricting plan Thursday that would scrap a majority-Black district stretching from Baton Rouge to Shreveport, replacing it with a predominantly white district likely to elect a Republican. The vote, coming two weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the state’s existing map, is the latest Republican-led effort to capitalize on a weakened federal Voting Rights Act ahead of the November midterms.

Abrupt USAID shutdown followed by increase in violence in aid-dependent African regions, study finds

2026-05-15

The Trump administration's decision to abruptly dissolve the U.S. Agency for International Development has been followed by a significant increase in violence across Africa's most aid-dependent regions, according to a study published Thursday in the journal Science. The researchers cautioned that the findings do not establish that the cuts caused the violence, only that the sudden disruption correlated with destabilization in fragile settings.

Powell leaves Fed after inflation pushback and fight to preserve independence

2026-05-15

Jerome Powell stepped down as chair of the Federal Reserve after eight years, ending a tenure shaped by post-pandemic inflation, a sharp rise in interest rates, and a prolonged fight over the Fed’s independence amid political pressure. In a look at his legacy, economists described both the central bank’s pivot to tightening as inflation spread and its earlier delay as the pandemic fallout intensified.

New Mexico politicians weigh oil windfall from Iran war

2026-05-15

New Mexico’s oil income has surged as fighting tied to Iran has tightened global supply, creating a fiscal boost that Democrats running for governor see as politically and ethically complicated. In interviews, Deb Haaland said she wants to use the money while recognizing the human cost abroad, while rival Sam Bregman argued for one-time cash payments and additional tax relief.

Law firms ask appeals court to uphold block on Trump’s executive orders against them.

2026-05-15

A federal appeals court heard arguments Thursday on whether to continue blocking President Donald Trump's executive orders sanctioning four major law firms, as the firms' lawyer warned that the orders "strike at the heart of the First Amendment." A Justice Department attorney urged the three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to reverse lower court rulings, arguing that the president is entitled to control security clearances and anti-discrimination investigations.

Vance campaigns in Maine for LePage, says Democrats enable fraud

2026-05-15

Vice President JD Vance campaigned in Bangor, Maine, on Thursday for former Gov. Paul LePage, a Republican vying to flip a competitive U.S. House seat, and accused Democrats of enabling widespread government fraud. The stop, the first Vance has billed as a fraud‑fighting event, sharpened a partisan message ahead of the state’s June 9 primary.

Turek, Wahls clash on electability in Iowa Senate Democratic debate

2026-05-15

Iowa state Rep. Josh Turek and state Sen. Zach Wahls each argued in a Thursday debate that they represent the best chance to flip the open U.S. Senate seat this fall, highlighting a Democratic struggle over how to reclaim rural and working-class voters in a state that has trended Republican.

House Ethics Committee investigates Rep. Chuck Edwards over harassment allegations

2026-05-15

WASHINGTON — The House Ethics Committee announced Thursday it is investigating Republican Rep. Chuck Edwards of North Carolina over allegations that he created a hostile work environment and engaged in sexual harassment, following an Axios report citing three anonymous sources who described inappropriate conduct toward two female staffers.

Hawaii governor signs law limiting corporate and dark money political spending

2026-05-15

Hawaii’s Democratic governor signed a bill on Thursday aimed at curbing corporate and hard-to-trace “dark money” influence in politics, a move officials say builds on efforts to respond to the 2010 Supreme Court decision Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. The law takes effect July 1, 2027, and Hawaii officials say it will redefine corporations in a way that precludes them from spending on elections.

Louisiana senators pass new U.S. House map after Supreme Court ruling

2026-05-15

Two weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Louisiana’s congressional map, Louisiana state senators on Thursday passed a new U.S. House redistricting plan that would eliminate a majority-Black district and cluster voting areas around predominantly white communities. The plan would also move Louisiana’s U.S. House primaries, postponed from Saturday, to a primary open to all candidates on Nov. 3, with a potential runoff on Dec. 12.

Latvian PM Evika Silina resigns after coalition partner pulls support

2026-05-15

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina resigned Thursday after her left-leaning Progressives Party coalition partner withdrew support, leaving her government without a parliamentary majority. The change follows a political crisis tied to incidents involving stray drones that Latvia’s defense leadership said were likely diverted from targets in Russia.

Vance promotes Trump anti-fraud work in Maine while attacking Democrats

2026-05-15

Vice President JD Vance visited Bangor, Maine, on May 14 and touted the Trump administration’s anti-fraud efforts while campaigning for former Gov. Paul LePage in the state’s competitive 2nd Congressional District primary. Vance, labeled “fraud czar” by President Donald Trump, also criticized Democratic Gov. Janet Mills and framed Democrats as enabling fraudsters. Mills and other Democratic-aligned groups said Vance’s messaging was aimed at distracting from costs and healthcare concerns.

House ethics panel probes Rep. Chuck Edwards over harassment claims

2026-05-15

The House Ethics Committee announced it is investigating Republican Rep. Chuck Edwards of North Carolina over allegations that he created a hostile work environment and engaged in sexual harassment. Edwards, in response, said he welcomed the inquiry and planned to cooperate.

Study links USAID cuts to higher violence in conflict-hit African regions

2026-05-15

U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision last year to dissolve the U.S. Agency for International Development, once a leading global aid donor, was followed by a significant increase in violence in several African countries, according to a study published Thursday in the journal Science. The authors said the findings show that “large-scale, sudden aid cuts can destabilize fragile settings,” though they said the study does not prove that more aid reduces conflict.

Court rulings on abortion pill mifepristone jolt midterm politics

2026-05-15

Back-to-back court rulings on abortion pill access are bringing the issue back into focus ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, with control of Congress in the second half of President Donald Trump’s term at stake, the Associated Press reported May 5. A federal appeals court restricted mail access to mifepristone, one of the most common abortion methods, and the Supreme Court then temporarily restored broad access while it continues to consider the case.

Federal judge blocks Trump administration from seeking trans youth records

2026-05-15

Federal Judge Mary McElroy on Wednesday blocked the Trump administration from obtaining confidential transgender patients’ information from Rhode Island Hospital, a major provider of gender-affirming care to minors, according to court records and the Associated Press. The Justice Department sought records tied to care provided over the past five years, including dates of birth, Social Security numbers and addresses, and documents related to adverse side effects and prescribing decisions.

Justice Clarence Thomas says Americans can find unity in the Constitution

2026-05-15

Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas urged Americans to mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence by standing for their beliefs and relying on the Constitution as a shared foundation. Speaking at a judicial conference near Miami on May 14, Thomas said Americans can disagree on many issues but still need “something in common” to sustain the country.

Law firms targeted by Trump fight back in court

2026-05-15

President Donald Trump’s efforts to sanction some major law firms “strike at the heart of the rule of law,” an attorney for the firms told a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on Thursday. The panel heard arguments on whether to keep court orders blocking executive actions that the government attorney urged the appeals court to reverse.

Trump’s 51st state talk draws near-silence from Venezuela

2026-05-15

U.S. President Donald Trump has revived interest in turning Venezuela into the 51st U.S. state, most recently through a Truth Social post, but Venezuela’s government response has been comparatively muted. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez told reporters on Monday that Venezuela had no plans to become a U.S. state, with comments that were more reserved than past presidential remarks.

Democrats debate Iowa Senate primary candidates Turek and Wahls

2026-05-15

Two Democrats vying to be Iowa’s next U.S. senator debated Thursday on how to win the Republican-held seat, highlighting a dispute within their party over the best path to reclaim the chamber. State Rep. Josh Turek argued he can win by reaching independents and moderate Republicans who supported President Donald Trump, while State Sen. Zach Wahls criticized national Democratic leaders and called for winning back rural and working-class voters.

US pledges $1.8 billion more for UN humanitarian aid, bringing total to $3.8 billion

2026-05-15

The United States on Thursday announced $1.8 billion in additional funding for United Nations humanitarian programs, bringing total U.S. support to $3.8 billion across 21 countries even as the Trump administration has cut foreign assistance overall. Mike Waltz, the U.S. ambassador to the UN, said the new money — earmarked for lifesaving aid to victims of natural disasters, famine and 'people who are truly in critical need' — is 'the latest step' in America’s humanitarian engagement.

Trump administration joins prayer gathering denounced as Christian nationalism

2026-05-15

President Donald Trump and several top administration officials will participate in a Sunday prayer gathering on the National Mall that organizers bill as a “rededication of our country as One Nation Under God,” but critics decry as a government-sponsored Christian nationalist event, the Associated Press reported.

Federal judge orders US to bring back Colombian woman deported to Congo

2026-05-15

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to return a Colombian woman from the Democratic Republic of Congo, ruling that her deportation there was likely illegal after the Congolese government refused to accept her because it could not provide adequate medical care.

EPA proposes rollback of coal plant wastewater limits, citing AI-driven energy demand

2026-05-15

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Thursday proposed rescinding a 2024 rule that required coal-fired power plants to treat toxic heavy metals leaching into groundwater, arguing the regulation is too costly as electricity demand surges from data centers powering artificial intelligence. Environmental groups warned the move would permit hundreds of millions of pounds of neurotoxins and carcinogens to enter drinking water sources.

US pledges $1.8 billion more to UN humanitarian aid amid broader cuts

2026-05-15

The Trump administration said it will add $1.8 billion toward U.N. humanitarian aid, pledging the money will go to relief for disaster and famine victims and people “truly in critical need.” The new contribution comes as the United States has cut foreign assistance overall, while U.N. agencies have warned they are overstretched and underfunded.

Trump administration to join “Rededicate 250” prayer event on National Mall

2026-05-15

President Donald Trump and other administration officials will join a daylong prayer gathering on Washington’s National Mall on Sunday billed as a “rededication of our country as One Nation Under God” to mark the U.S. 250th birthday, organizers said. The event, called “Rededicate 250,” is being promoted by Cabinet officials and religious leaders, while critics in Congress say it blends American and Christian identities and risks blurring church-state separation.

Federal court building flashpoint in NYC Democratic primary

2026-05-15

A federal immigration court in Lower Manhattan at 26 Federal Plaza has become a symbol of the Trump administration’s deportation campaign in New York City, with migrants and federal agents repeatedly colliding in and around the courtroom. Now, the building is also a backdrop to a high-stakes Democratic primary between U.S. Rep. Dan Goldman and former city Comptroller Brad Lander.

ICE detiene a exalcalde de Kansas que votó pese a no ser ciudadano

2026-05-15

Las autoridades de inmigración de Estados Unidos detuvieron el miércoles a Joe Ceballos, exalcalde de una localidad de Kansas, después de que reconociera haber votado en elecciones pese a no ser ciudadano. Ceballos, residente permanente legal nacido en México, fue detenido en Wichita, Kansas, informó su abogado. Dijo a reporteros que teme que lo deporten.

Xavier Becerra bets on decades of experience in California governor race

2026-05-15

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Democrat Xavier Becerra is leaning on more than 35 years in state and federal office as he seeks California governor in the June 2 primary, while critics in the final stretch question his competence and point to legal and record-based attacks. Becerra, formerly California attorney general and President Joe Biden’s health secretary, has recently benefited from endorsements and shifts in the Democratic field after Eric Swalwell exited.

Iraq lawmakers approve government program and 14-member partial cabinet

2026-05-15

Iraq’s parliament on Thursday voted to approve the government program and confirm part of Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi’s Cabinet, but it stalled on several ministerial posts. Lawmakers approved 14 ministers out of 23 and failed to confirm nominees for interior, higher education and planning, while votes on other ministries were postponed.

Ex-Becerra aide Dana Williamson pleads guilty in campaign theft scheme

2026-05-15

Dana Williamson, a longtime Democratic power broker and former top adviser to Xavier Becerra, pleaded guilty Thursday in federal court to charges including conspiracy to commit bank fraud, admitting her role in a plan to siphon money from Becerra’s dormant state campaign account. The admission, in a case that has shadowed Becerra’s bid for California governor, marks the second guilty plea in a scheme that prosecutors say diverted $225,000 for a former aide’s salary.

Trump floats making Venezuela 51st US state; Caracas responds with near-silence

2026-05-15

President Donald Trump said twice this week he is considering making Venezuela the 51st U.S. state, including a Truth Social post showing a map of the South American country filled with the American flag. In Caracas, the reaction was not the firestorm of anti-American propaganda that greeted similar provocations under Nicolás Maduro. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez offered only a terse denial, signaling the Chavismo government’s pragmatic turn toward cooperation with Washington after Maduro’s ouster.

Black divers honor ancestors at underwater memorial to sunken slave ship

2026-05-15

Black scuba divers and community members made a pilgrimage in early May to the underwater memorial marking the wreck of the Henrietta Marie, a British slave ship that sank off Key West, Florida, in 1700 after delivering 200 enslaved Africans to Jamaica. The group, organized by Underwater Adventure Seekers and Diving With a Purpose, described the visits to the shipwreck site and a nearby African refugee burial ground as acts of devotion and a way to confront a history that some feel is being erased.

Ohio Rep. Max Miller sues ex-wife Emily Moreno for defamation over abuse claims

2026-05-15

U.S. Rep. Max Miller filed a defamation lawsuit against his ex-wife Emily Moreno on Wednesday, claiming her public allegations that he was physically abusive have caused 'considerable reputational and financial harm.' Moreno's spokesperson said Miller is trying to silence her the same way he previously silenced ex-girlfriend and former White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham, who leveled similar accusations.

Immigration court becomes flashpoint in New York Democratic primary

2026-05-15

In New York's heavily Democratic congressional district, the June primary between incumbent Rep. Dan Goldman and former city Comptroller Brad Lander has turned the federal immigration court at 26 Federal Plaza into a campaign battleground. Both Democrats have made the Trump administration's deportation operations at the Lower Manhattan courthouse a central issue — but with sharply contrasting strategies.

Families search for 40 migrants who vanished on dangerous sea route from southern Mexico

2026-05-15

TAPACHULA, Mexico — On Christmas Eve 2024, a young Cuban woman called her mother to say she had put on a life jacket and was boarding a boat that would carry her and 39 other migrants from a southern Mexican port toward the United States. It was the last anyone heard from her. Sixteen months later, her mother and other relatives arrived in the Chiapas town of San José El Hueyate to search for answers — scouring the pier, navigating the Pacific coast, and canvassing residents — but finding only silence.

ICE detains Joe Ceballos, former Kansas mayor, over illegal voting as non-citizen

2026-05-15

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents detained Joe Ceballos, the former mayor of Coldwater, Kansas, at a federal office in Wichita on Wednesday, after he admitted voting illegally in prior elections despite being a Mexican-born legal permanent resident. Ceballos, 55, resigned as mayor in December and pleaded guilty in April to misdemeanor election misconduct, but his attorney said the conviction should not have triggered immigration action. Supporters gathered outside, chanting '¡Dejen ir a Joe!' as he entered, while his lawyer argued the Trump administration was pursuing a 'nonsense' deportation case.

Iraq approves partial Cabinet as Iran-linked factions delay disarmament votes

2026-05-15

The Iraqi parliament voted on Thursday to confirm 14 of 23 ministers in Prime Minister-designate Ali al-Zaidi’s new government but hit an impasse over security-linked portfolios after Iran’s Quds Force commander instructed allied Iraqi factions to delay any disarmament steps, two officials told The Associated Press.

Eurovision final lineup confirmed as boycott and protests shadow contest in Vienna

2026-05-15

VIENNA (AP) — The lineup for the Eurovision Song Contest final was set Thursday after 10 acts advanced from the second semifinal in Vienna, but political tensions over Israel’s participation continued to cast a shadow, with five countries boycotting the event and a protest planned ahead of Saturday’s grand final.

Canada to double electric grid by 2050 under new clean-energy plan, Carney says

2026-05-15

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a sweeping clean electricity strategy Thursday that aims to double the country’s grid by 2050, saying electrification is the path to affordability, competitiveness and net-zero emissions. The plan, which carries an estimated price tag of more than one trillion Canadian dollars, would overhaul the nation’s power system with a mix of hydro, nuclear, wind, solar, natural gas and other sources.

Newsom's Final $350B California Budget Avoids Deficit, Adds Software Tax

2026-05-15

California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday proposed a revised $350 billion state budget for his final year in office, turning a projected deficit into a balanced plan driven by a revenue windfall from the booming stock market and artificial intelligence sector. The 2026-27 fiscal plan, released May 14, avoids deep cuts and adds targeted taxes on digital services as Newsom eyes a potential 2028 presidential run.

UK health secretary resigns, calling on Starmer to step aside and igniting leadership battle

2026-05-15

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced an open rebellion from within his own Labour Party on Thursday, after Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned from the Cabinet and urged him not to serve out his term. In a scathing resignation letter, Streeting said Starmer had shown "courage and statesmanship on the world stage" but accused him of providing "a vacuum" of vision and direction. The move intensifies pressure on Starmer following disastrous local election results last week.

Conservative states push to ban abortion pills as telehealth use rises

2026-05-15

Conservative state lawmakers across the country are pushing to ban or severely restrict abortion pills, a response to a new survey indicating that for the first time, more women in states with near-total bans obtained the pills through telehealth than traveled out of state for in-clinic care. South Dakota has already made it a felony to advertise, distribute, or sell the pills, and similar legislation is advancing in Mississippi, Arizona, Indiana, and South Carolina. Meanwhile, Wyoming became the only state this year to impose a new abortion ban — a six‑week prohibition that faces steep legal hurdles.

Texas town’s housing authority bungled immigrant-eviction message

2026-05-15

PORT ISABEL, Texas — A housing authority in Port Isabel sent a letter in February warning residents that the Trump administration would require proof of legal status within 30 days or face eviction, prompting a rapid exodus from public housing. The authority later sent a “clarification” saying such proof was not required, but half the residents had already left by the end of the month.

U.S. settles SEC lawsuit against Gautam Adani for alleged bribery scheme

2026-05-15

The U.S. government has agreed to settle a Securities and Exchange Commission lawsuit that accused Indian billionaire Gautam Adani and his nephew, Sagar Adani, of concealing an alleged bribery scheme tied to a major solar project in India, according to court filings published Thursday. The settlement, which does not include an admission of wrongdoing, would require Adani to pay $6 million in civil penalties and his nephew $12 million.

Lawsuit challenges DeSantis plan to give Miami land for Trump library

2026-05-15

Miami residents sued President Donald Trump, Miami Dade College and Florida officials on Wednesday, arguing a state decision to donate downtown property for a Trump presidential library violates the U.S. Constitution’s Domestic Emoluments Clause. The complaint says the land would become a Trump hotel complex and keep the parcel from MDC’s student and community uses.

Trump EPA proposes rolling back limits on toxic coal wastewater

2026-05-15

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency moved Thursday to roll back limits that require coal-fired power plants to prevent toxic heavy metals from entering streams and rivers through groundwater. The EPA proposed changing a rule finalized in 2024 under President Joe Biden, arguing it is unduly costly for the energy industry as electricity demand rises.

Police say teen was among 6 who died in hot Texas shipping container

2026-05-15

A teen was among six people from Honduras and Mexico found dead in a shipping container at a Union Pacific rail yard in Laredo, Texas, authorities said May 14. Police said the group was believed to be part of a human smuggling effort and that federal authorities were leading the investigation.

Mothers seek answers in Chiapas after 40 migrants vanish en route to U.S.

2026-05-15

Families in Mexico’s Chiapas state have been scouring ports and roadside businesses for clues after 40 migrants vanished in late December 2024 while traveling a sea route used by smugglers toward the United States. The search has centered on San José El Hueyate, near the Guatemalan border, where relatives say a Cuban woman’s last call came before the group disappeared.

Greece says biometric scans still required for UK tourists, with eased setup

2026-05-15

Greece rejected reports that it would exempt British travelers this summer from biometric checks tied to the EU Entry-Exit System, saying the program is fully operational at Greek airports. The Foreign Ministry said it has not received clarification on any nationality-by-nationality suspension, but officials said busy airports will be allowed to shut off scanners when needed during peak periods.

CIA chief Ratcliffe meets Raúl Castro’s grandson in Havana amid tensions

2026-05-15

CIA Director John Ratcliffe met in Havana with Cuban officials including Raúl Castro’s grandson during a high-level visit Thursday, Cuban and U.S. officials said. Ratcliffe discussed intelligence cooperation, economic stability and security, and a CIA official said he delivered President Donald Trump’s message that the U.S. is prepared to engage if Cuba makes fundamental changes.

Conservative states focus on banning abortion pills and restricting access via providers

2026-05-15

In the first stretch of 2026 state legislative sessions, conservative-governed states have continued expanding restrictions targeting abortion pills, including new rules aimed at mailing and telehealth prescribing. A survey released Tuesday by the Guttmacher Institute finds that in states with bans, more people obtained abortions last year through pill prescriptions sent via telehealth than by traveling out of state.

Black divers honor history at Florida site of sunken slave ship

2026-05-15

In Key West, Florida, Black divers and community members gathered at a memorial underwater marker for the Henrietta Marie, a British slave ship that sank in the 1700s. The pilgrims said the visit offered a chance to connect with their roots and to process a traumatic history tied to death and suffering. On land, the group also visited a cemetery and memorial for African refugees who died in 1860 after being rescued from slave ships by the U.S. Navy.

Border Patrol chief Michael Banks resigns after DHS leadership change

2026-05-15

U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks announced his resignation Thursday, effective immediately, in the latest shake-up of officials overseeing President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement efforts. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the decision, while the White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom unveils $350B revised budget without deficit

2026-05-15

California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday proposed a revised state budget with no deficit for his final year in office and the following year, laying out a $350 billion spending plan. Newsom said higher-than-expected revenues would prevent a budget shortfall, while the proposal seeks to protect major programs and avoid large cuts as negotiations begin in Sacramento.

Carney unveils plan to double Canada's electric grid by 2050

2026-05-15

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled a clean electricity strategy Thursday that he said will double Canada’s electricity grid by 2050 and lower energy costs for most households. Speaking at a news conference in Ottawa, Carney linked the plan to challenges including U.S. tariffs, higher energy costs tied to the war in Iran and the impacts of climate change.

Clashes erupt in Bolivia’s capital as miners set off dynamite, tear gas

2026-05-15

Clashes erupted Thursday in La Paz, Bolivia, as police used tear gas to disperse a crowd of miners trying to breach the government palace and miners set off small dynamite charges. The violence marked the latest incident during a second week of nationwide unrest challenging President Rodrigo Paz’s administration.

Emails show FBI Director Kash Patel went on a “VIP snorkel” at Pearl Harbor

2026-05-15

The FBI Director Kash Patel visited Hawaii last summer for official meetings at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, but emails obtained by The Associated Press say he later took part in a military-coordinated “VIP snorkel” around the USS Arizona memorial. The FBI did not disclose the snorkeling session or say Patel returned to Hawaii for two more days after his initial stopover.

Ex-aide in California Dems scheme pleads guilty; Becerra faces scrutiny

2026-05-15

Dana Williamson, a former top adviser for California Democratic political operations, pleaded guilty Thursday in Sacramento to charges including conspiracy tied to a scheme to steal campaign funds connected to Xavier Becerra’s tenure as a federal health secretary. The plea includes admissions to three counts, as her agreement lays out potential prison and fine exposure while her attorney argues federal guidelines point to a sentence far shorter. The case has added pressure to Becerra’s bid for California governor, which is set to finish June 2.

Federal judge orders Trump to return Colombian woman deported to Congo

2026-05-15

A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to bring back a Colombian woman who was deported to Congo even after the Congolese government said it could not accept her because of medical needs. U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leon ruled Wednesday that the deportation of Adriana Maria Quiroz Zapata was “likely illegal,” and he set deadlines for the government to report on its efforts.

Lawyers seek to block Trump order creating eligible voter list

2026-05-15

Federal judge Carl Nichols heard arguments Thursday in a lawsuit seeking to block President Donald Trump’s executive order that would require the Department of Homeland Security to compile an eligible voter list for each state and would limit the U.S. Postal Service’s sending of absentee ballots.

Trump halts U.S. offshore wind as global capacity grows, numbers show

2026-05-15

Offshore wind is gaining momentum worldwide, even as the Trump administration has moved to stop U.S. offshore wind projects and buy back federal leases, according to an Associated Press rundown. The United States has three operating offshore wind farms, while three more began delivering power or preparing to fully open after construction resumes following lawsuits.

UK’s Starmer faces Labour leadership challenge after health minister quits

2026-05-15

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced open rebellion within his Labour Party after Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned from the Cabinet, setting up a potential leadership challenge. Streeting said he had lost confidence in Starmer and urged him not to serve out the rest of his term, amid doubts after Labour’s setbacks in recent local elections.

Attorneys argue Trump election order exceeds presidential authority in federal court

2026-05-15

Lawyers for Democratic Party organizations and civil rights groups argued in federal court Thursday that President Donald Trump exceeded his constitutional authority when he issued an executive order to restrict mail-in voting and create a federal list of eligible voters. U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols did not rule from the bench on the plaintiffs' request to block the March 31 order.

Miners set off dynamite in La Paz as Bolivia protests escalate into second week

2026-05-15

Miners set off small dynamite charges and attempted to storm Bolivia’s government palace in La Paz on Thursday, drawing tear gas from riot police in the latest violent turn of nationwide unrest that has now entered its second week. The demonstrations began as labor and agricultural protests but have since broadened into calls for President Rodrigo Paz to step down.

Voters weigh tax cuts against inflation in North Carolina Senate race

2026-05-14

North Carolina voters are weighing the effects of President Donald Trump's signature tax legislation against a continued climb in inflation as they prepare to cast ballots in the upcoming midterm elections. The economic tug-of-war is reshaping the political landscape in the battleground state, where retirees, service workers, and small-business owners report diverging impacts on their finances.

Senate Confirms Kevin Warsh to Lead Federal Reserve, Replacing Powell

2026-05-14

The Senate voted 54-45 on Wednesday to confirm Kevin Warsh as chairman of the Federal Reserve, installing President Donald Trump’s pick to lead the world’s most powerful central bank at a moment of rising inflation, internal division, and open questions about the Fed’s independence.

Senate confirms Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve chairman

2026-05-14

The U.S. Senate confirmed President Donald Trump’s nominee, Kevin Warsh, to lead the Federal Reserve, replacing Jerome Powell as chair. Warsh was confirmed Wednesday in a largely party-line 54-45 vote and is set to take over the central bank at a time when inflation has stayed above the Fed’s 2% target and the Fed’s policy decisions have drawn unusually deep internal divisions.

Commerce Secretary Lutnick says Epstein ‘blackmail’ claim was speculation

2026-05-14

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told House lawmakers last week that his previous claim that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein had blackmailed people was only ‘speculation,’ according to a transcript released Wednesday. The interview, released by the House Oversight Committee, shows Lutnick — the highest-ranked current administration official besides President Donald Trump to appear in Epstein case files — facing sharp questioning from Democrats who later called him evasive and dishonest.

Republican resistance to Iran war grows as Murkowski flips

2026-05-14

Senator Lisa Murkowski voted for the first time against President Trump's Iran war on Wednesday, joining two other Republicans as the Senate again narrowly blocked a Democratic effort to halt the 85-day-old conflict. The war powers resolution failed 49–50, with Senator John Fetterman the only Democrat to oppose it, but the close tally signaled widening unease within the GOP over the administration's legal rationale for the military campaign. Democratic leaders vowed to continue forcing weekly votes, framing the resolutions as a political pressure campaign even though they face a near-certain presidential veto.

Jeffries faces harder path to House control after court resets maps

2026-05-14

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said his job to win control of the chamber and the speaker’s gavel has grown more difficult after back-to-back court rulings that overturned Democratic redistricting gains in Virginia. In remarks to House Democrats behind closed doors and in public comments, Jeffries warned that Republicans would pursue the next phase of the fight with “diabolical intensity.”

Trump heads to Beijing for summit with Xi as protocol takes center stage

2026-05-14

President Donald Trump is scheduled to arrive in Beijing on Wednesday for a highly anticipated summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, a trip shaped by war-related tensions and a compressed, ceremony-heavy schedule. The Associated Press reported that, in China’s hierarchical diplomatic culture, the reception’s pageantry—who greets Trump, what music is played and details like military honor guards—can signal favor or disfavor as much as policy talks do.

Lutnick backs away from Epstein “blackmail” claim in House interview

2026-05-14

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick backed away in a House Oversight Committee interview from a previous claim that Jeffrey Epstein blackmailed people, saying in the committee setting that he had been “speculating” for a podcast. The committee released the transcript this week after Epstein case files contradicted Lutnick’s earlier description of his interactions with Epstein.

Republican resistance to Iran war grows as Murkowski flips in Senate

2026-05-14

Senate Republicans again blocked Democratic legislation to halt President Donald Trump’s war with Iran on Wednesday, but the number of GOP senators voting against the measure rose. Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska voted against the war for the first time since it began at the end of February.

Trump arrives in Beijing for high-stakes summit with Xi as China signals cautious welcome

2026-05-14

President Donald Trump arrives in Beijing on Wednesday for a summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping at a moment of global tension over the war with Iran, trade, and artificial intelligence. China is preparing a warm ceremonial welcome designed to flatter Trump, but experts say Beijing is unlikely to match the unprecedented “state visit plus” extravaganza it rolled out for his first visit in 2017.

Vance announces $1.3B Medicaid deferral, Medicare hospice enrollment freeze

2026-05-14

Vice President JD Vance and CMS head Dr. Mehmet Oz announced a $1.3 billion deferral of federal Medicaid payments to California and a six-month freeze on new Medicare enrollments for hospice and home care providers on Wednesday, part of a widening anti-fraud crackdown on federal health programs. The administration also warned states to investigate possible Medicaid fraud or risk losing federal funds.

DNC Chair Ken Martin faces internal skepticism over leadership as midterms approach

2026-05-14

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin is confronting a crisis of confidence among party officials less than six months before the 2026 midterms, even though Democrats have notched a string of election victories under his tenure. Major donors are holding back, liberal influencers are questioning his refusal to release an internal autopsy of the 2024 election, and some strategists have informally discussed recruiting a replacement, the Associated Press reported Wednesday.

Vance announces $1.3B Medicaid deferral to California over fraud suspicions

2026-05-14

Vice President JD Vance announced new steps to fight fraud in federal health programs, including a $1.3 billion deferral in Medicaid funding to California. The administration also plans a six-month freeze on some new Medicare enrollments for hospice and home care providers and is urging states to investigate Medicaid fraud or risk losing federal money.

Too-close-to-call Nebraska Democratic House primary puts 'blue dot' at stake

2026-05-14

The Democratic primary for Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District, the seat that gives the state its single “blue dot” electoral vote, was too close to call late Tuesday, with activist Denise Powell holding a narrow lead over state Sen. John Cavanaugh, the Associated Press reported. Powell led by about 2 percentage points with more than 51,000 votes counted, but Douglas County — home to more than 90% of the district — had a large number of ballots still to tally and expected to provide an update Wednesday afternoon. The winner will face Republican Brinkner Harding, who has President Donald Trump’s endorsement, in a November race for a seat Democrats see as a top pickup opportunity after five-term GOP Rep. Don Bacon’s retirement.

Senate Confirms Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve Chair, Replacing Powell

2026-05-14

On Wednesday, the U.S. Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh to chair the Federal Reserve, replacing Jerome Powell after a contentious selection process that saw President Donald Trump publicly pressure the central bank for lower interest rates and his Justice Department investigate the Fed. Warsh, a former Fed governor and Stanford fellow, takes the helm as the central bank grapples with inflation driven partly by the U.S.-led war with Iran, which began in February and has sent energy prices higher. Powell, whose term as governor runs to 2028, said he would remain on the board, citing Trump's “unprecedented” attacks on the Fed's independence.

Powell’s Fed legacy: navigating post-pandemic inflation, jobs tradeoffs

2026-05-14

Jerome Powell steps down as chair of the Federal Reserve after eight years that saw inflation surge after the pandemic and unemployment fall to decades lows. The Associated Press examined the themes that shaped his tenure, including the Fed’s delayed rate increases, the later sharp tightening, and Powell’s efforts to protect the central bank’s independence.

Palestinian man shot dead climbing West Bank barrier seeking work

2026-05-14

Palestinian authorities said Israeli police shot and killed a Palestinian man as he tried to climb the concrete barrier separating the occupied West Bank from Jerusalem, near the West Bank town of Al-Ram. The man was identified by Palestinian health officials and the Palestinian Red Crescent as Zakaria Qatusa, 44. Another Palestinian teenager, 16-year-old Youssef Kaabneh, was killed in a separate clash in the northern West Bank on Wednesday, Palestinian and Israeli officials said.

Senate confirms Kevin Warsh as next Fed chair after probe clears

2026-05-14

Senate confirms Kevin Warsh as next chair of the Federal Reserve, putting a former governor in charge as the central bank faces inflation pressure and a fresh political fight over rate cuts. The move follows delays tied to a Justice Department investigation that North Carolina Republican Sen. Thom Tillis had demanded be dropped. Under an unusual arrangement, Jerome Powell said he will remain on the Fed’s board after his chair term ends, extending through 2028.

Ukraine aid bill hits signature threshold to force House vote

2026-05-14

Supporters of a bill to provide security aid to Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia reached the signature threshold needed to bypass Republican leadership and force a House floor vote in coming weeks, according to an Associated Press report. The measure is expected to be brought to the House floor after Democratic Rep. Gregory Meeks gained 218 signatures on a petition that includes Rep. Kevin Kiley, an Independent, as the final name required.

Palestinian father of four shot dead climbing West Bank barrier to find work in Israel

2026-05-14

Israeli police shot and killed a 44-year-old Palestinian father of four as he attempted to climb the concrete barrier separating the occupied West Bank from Jerusalem on Tuesday evening, according to Palestinian authorities. The man's brother said he was crossing the wall to find work in Israel, citing a lack of economic opportunity in the West Bank.

Louisiana advances plan to cut Black district as Georgia starts 2028 effort

2026-05-14

Louisiana Republican senators advanced a plan Wednesday to dismantle one of the state’s two majority-Black congressional districts, acting in the wake of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down the prior map as an illegal racial gerrymander. Georgia’s Republican governor also announced a special session to redraw voting districts for 2028, adding to a wave of post-ruling redistricting in GOP-led states.

Trump pushes federal gas tax suspension as pump prices hover near $4.50

2026-05-14

President Donald Trump is pressing Congress to suspend the federal gasoline tax as the war with Iran keeps U.S. pump prices near $4.50 a gallon, but analysts say any savings for drivers would be modest and the move could drain billions from highway and transit programs.

Denise Powell wins Democratic primary in Nebraska’s blue-dot 2nd District

2026-05-14

Denise Powell won the Democratic primary in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District on Wednesday, setting up a fall matchup against Brinker Harding, an Omaha City Council member endorsed by President Donald Trump. The Omaha-area district is a “blue dot” that has favored Democratic presidential candidates three out of five times since 2008, even as it elects a Republican representative for House. AP called the primary after Douglas County election officials reported the number of outstanding mail-in and provisional ballots left too few to change the outcome.

Massie bets Kentucky Republicans will stick with him despite Trump

2026-05-14

Rep. Thomas Massie is seeking reelection in Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District as President Donald Trump backs a primary challenger and attacks Massie personally. In Covington, Ky., Massie supporters debated whether they can remain loyal to Trump while voting for Massie ahead of next Tuesday’s Republican primary.

Louisiana advances new U.S. House districts as Georgia joins 2028 plan

2026-05-14

Louisiana lawmakers advanced a new plan to redraw U.S. House districts after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the state’s map as an illegal racial gerrymander, a development Republican-led states are using to reshape minority voting districts before the November midterms. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp also announced he will call lawmakers back in June to begin redrawing legislative voting districts aimed at the 2028 elections.

Brazil’s Flávio Bolsonaro denies wrongdoing in $12 million film request

2026-05-14

Brazilian Senate hopeful Flávio Bolsonaro denied wrongdoing in a case reported as a request for millions of reais from jailed banker Daniel Vorcaro, a revelation that could complicate his expected presidential run in October against Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. In a statement, Bolsonaro said his request involved private sponsorship for a film about his father, Jair Bolsonaro, and that he did not offer illegal advantages.

FBI Director Kash Patel denies drinking allegations at Senate hearing

2026-05-14

FBI Director Kash Patel, appearing at a Senate budget hearing on Tuesday, denied allegations that he drinks excessively on the job and said the claims are “unequivocally, categorically false.” He made the remarks during an exchange with Sen. Chris Van Hollen after Van Hollen confronted him about a recent profile of Patel’s leadership in The Atlantic.

Spencer Pratt's viral campaign shakes up Los Angeles mayoral race

2026-05-14

Reality television personality Spencer Pratt has transformed from "The Hills" villain into a serious contender for mayor of Los Angeles, riding a wave of viral videos and voter anger over homelessness and the city's wildfire response to upend the June 2 election.

“The Hills” villain makes a splash as candidate for LA mayor

2026-05-14

Spencer Pratt, known for playing a villain on the reality series “The Hills,” is drawing early attention in Los Angeles’ mayoral race as voters prepare to cast ballots in a June 2 election. Pratt is challenging incumbent Mayor Karen Bass and is betting that viral videos attacking Bass and other Democrats will carry him into a potential runoff.

Trump administration suspends visa bonds for World Cup ticket holders from five African nations

2026-05-14

The Trump administration said Wednesday it will waive a visa bond requirement of up to $15,000 for foreign ticket holders from five World Cup-qualifying African nations, a rare relaxation of immigration restrictions as the country prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup beginning June 11. The State Department imposed the bond last year for 50 countries with high rates of visa overstays, part of a broader immigration crackdown. Fans from Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia who have purchased tickets through FIFA and opted into the FIFA Pass expedited visa system as of April 15 are now exempt.

US to settle SEC lawsuit accusing Adani of hiding alleged bribery scheme

2026-05-14

The U.S. government has agreed to settle an SEC lawsuit accusing Indian billionaire Gautam Adani and his nephew of misleading investors about alleged bribery tied to Adani Green Energy’s solar project in India, according to court filings published Thursday. The settlement would require Adani to pay $6 million in civil penalties and his nephew to pay $12 million, the filings say.

U.S. waives visa bond for World Cup ticket holders from five countries

2026-05-14

The Trump administration is suspending a requirement that some foreign visitors pay immigration bonds to enter the United States, the State Department said Wednesday. Ticket holders from five World Cup-qualified countries—Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia—will be exempt from paying bonds if they opt in to FIFA’s Pass system for expedited visa appointments.

Georgia governor signs law removing party labels from Atlanta-area elections

2026-05-14

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed legislation Tuesday requiring nonpartisan elections for most local offices in the state’s five most populous counties, prompting Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston to threaten a lawsuit over the measure’s constitutionality. The law, which applies to Fulton, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb and Gwinnett counties — all in the Atlanta metro — will move elections for affected officials except district attorneys to May, when voters choose nonpartisan judges, likely reducing turnout from November general elections.

Hawaii governor signs law to curb corporate, dark-money political spending

2026-05-14

Hawaii Democratic Gov. Josh Green signed into law a bill aimed at reducing corporate and hard-to-track “dark money” influence in politics after the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision. The law takes effect July 1, 2027, and redefines corporations in a way the state says prevents them from spending on elections.

Meta launches WhatsApp ‘incognito’ mode for private AI chats

2026-05-14

Meta Platforms is rolling out an “incognito” mode for its WhatsApp AI chatbot, allowing users to hold private conversations that the company says even it cannot access. The feature, announced Wednesday, is designed to ease growing privacy concerns about the sensitive information people share with artificial intelligence assistants.

U.S. deportations to El Salvador nearly double as Bukele aligns with Trump

2026-05-14

The number of people deported from the United States to El Salvador nearly doubled in the first quarter of 2026, according to migration authority figures obtained by The Associated Press, as Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has positioned himself as an ally to the Trump administration on immigration. Official data shows 5,033 Salvadorans were returned to the country in the first three months of 2026, compared with 2,547 in the same period in 2025.

Prosecutors seek 7-year prison term for Sarkozy in Libya financing appeal

2026-05-14

French prosecutors asked an appeals court Wednesday to sentence former President Nicolas Sarkozy to seven years in prison for allegedly accepting illicit campaign funds from the late Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi, pressing for a conviction on charges that a lower court dismissed last year.

Sheinbaum and CIA deny CNN report of covert operations in Mexico

2026-05-14

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and the CIA on Wednesday vehemently denied a CNN report that the U.S. intelligence agency facilitated a targeted killing of a Sinaloa cartel member on Mexican soil, with Sheinbaum calling the story a 'lie' and the CIA spokesperson labeling it 'false and salacious.' CNN and The New York Times, which published a similar account, both said they stand by their reporting.

Four Memphis residents sue Trump’s Memphis Safe Task Force, alleging First Amendment violations

2026-05-14

Four Memphis residents filed a federal lawsuit on Wednesday, accusing the Trump-ordered Memphis Safe Task Force of systematically harassing, arresting, and physically mistreating them for exercising their First Amendment rights to observe and record law enforcement activity in public. The task force, staffed by agents from 13 federal agencies as well as Tennessee State Troopers and the National Guard, has conducted over 120,000 traffic stops and more than 9,000 arrests in Memphis since late September.

ICE detains former Coldwater mayor after guilty plea for voting as noncitizen

2026-05-14

Joe Ceballos, the former mayor of Coldwater, Kansas, was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Wednesday after he pleaded guilty to misdemeanor election conduct for voting in elections as a noncitizen, his attorney said. Ceballos, 55, is a legal permanent resident who was brought to the United States from Mexico as a child and now faces potential deportation.

Macron, Guterres back African seats on UN Security Council in Ethiopia talks

2026-05-14

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — French President Emmanuel Macron concluded his Africa visit on Wednesday with talks in Ethiopia that focused on Africa’s long-running push for permanent representation on the U.N. Security Council. Meeting with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, and U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, the leaders agreed on the need for African seats, according to a readout from the discussions.

Dominican opposition criticizes deal with US to take third-country deportees

2026-05-14

Dominican opposition figures on Wednesday sharply criticized a newly signed agreement between the United States and the Dominican Republic that would allow the Caribbean nation to temporarily host third-country deportees before their return home, calling it a surrender of national sovereignty. The non-binding memorandum of understanding, announced Tuesday by the Dominican Foreign Ministry, has drawn fire from former officials and opposition leaders who demand transparency and full publication of the agreement’s terms.

Texas county issues first moratorium on data centers to study impacts

2026-05-14

Hill County, Texas — a rural county south of Fort Worth — on Tuesday became the first in the state to impose a one-year pause on new data center construction in unincorporated areas, after county commissioners cited escalating public-health and safety concerns tied to the industry’s rapid expansion. The 3–2 vote puts the county on a collision course with developers and state leaders who have moved to block similar local restrictions, testing the limits of county authority in Texas’s booming data center market.

California sets 2032 deadline for recyclable plastic packaging, drawing lawsuits from both sides

2026-05-14

California finalized regulations at the start of May requiring producers to make all single-use plastic packaging recyclable or compostable by 2032, the most ambitious deadline in the country. The rules, enacted under a landmark 2022 law, have already drawn legal threats from environmental advocates who say they are too weak and from plastic manufacturers who say they are too costly.

Flávio Bolsonaro asked jailed banker for $12 million to finance father’s biopic, voice messages show

2026-05-14

Brazilian Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, a leading contender in October’s presidential election, solicited 61 million reais ($12 million) from jailed banker Daniel Vorcaro to produce a film about his father, former President Jair Bolsonaro, according to voice messages published Wednesday. The revelation, first reported by The Intercept Brazil, threatens to upend the senator’s campaign just weeks before his party’s nominating convention.

Bahamian PM Philip Davis declares PLP victory in snap election

2026-05-14

Incumbent Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis declared victory for his Progressive Liberal Party in the Bahamas' snap general election on Tuesday, securing a second term as local media projected the PLP would win more than 30 of the 41 parliamentary seats. Official results were not immediately released.

Bungled housing message in Texas sparked exodus amid Trump immigration rule

2026-05-14

PORT ISABEL, Texas — A public housing authority in this South Texas town told residents in February that a Trump administration proposal would require proof of legal status within 30 days or families could be evicted. Within weeks, many residents had left public housing, advocates and residents said, even after the authority later sent a “clarification.” The episode offers a snapshot of how a proposed federal immigration rule could affect housing for families with at least one ineligible member.

Lawsuit says Trump and DeSantis Miami library land donation violates Constitution

2026-05-14

Miami residents, a Miami Dade College student and others sued President Donald Trump, the Trump presidential library foundation and Florida officials, alleging the plan to donate a prime downtown parcel for the library — potentially including a hotel — violates the U.S. Constitution’s Domestic Emoluments Clause. The lawsuit says Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis helped transfer the 2.63-acre site last year.

Meta rolls out “incognito” mode for WhatsApp AI chats to protect privacy

2026-05-14

Meta Platforms said Wednesday it is rolling out an “incognito” mode for WhatsApp users to have private, temporary conversations with its Meta AI chatbot. The company said messages in the mode will be processed in a secure environment that even Meta can’t access, will not be saved by default, and will disappear when users exit a chat session. Will Cathcart, head of WhatsApp, said the change is meant to address users’ privacy concerns when they ask sensitive questions or share personal data with AI systems.

US deportations to El Salvador nearly double in early 2026

2026-05-14

The U.S. deported 5,033 people to El Salvador in the first three months of 2026, nearly doubling the 2,547 deportations from the same period in 2025, according to El Salvador migration authority figures obtained by The Associated Press. The increase comes as Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele aligns himself with President Donald Trump’s deportation priorities and offers to help carry them out.

French prosecutors seek 7-year prison for Nicolas Sarkozy in Libya appeal

2026-05-14

French prosecutors asked judges on Wednesday to send former President Nicolas Sarkozy back to prison for seven years in an appeal tied to allegations that Moammar Gadhafi secretly financed Sarkozy’s 2007 campaign. Prosecutors also sought a 300,000-euro fine and asked the court to find Sarkozy guilty on corruption and campaign-financing charges prosecutors say were improperly cleared at his first trial.

Nebraska Democratic House primary between Powell and Cavanaugh too close

2026-05-14

Omaha, Nebraska’s Democratic primary for Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District House seat was too early to call late Tuesday, with Denise Powell leading state Sen. John Cavanaugh by about 2 percentage points as more than 51,000 votes were counted, according to the Associated Press. The winner will face Republican Brinkner Harding, who was endorsed by President Donald Trump.

Lawsuit alleges Memphis Safe Task Force violated First Amendment rights

2026-05-14

Federal and Tennessee officials are facing a lawsuit from four Memphis residents who say the Memphis Safe Task Force harassed, arrested and physically mistreated them for observing and recording law enforcement in public. The suit, filed Wednesday in federal court, challenges actions allegedly taken during a Trump-ordered task force operation and also contests Tennessee’s “Halo Law,” which requires warned observers to stay at least 25 feet from officers.

Makary’s FDA resignation widens leadership gap at HHS

2026-05-14

FDA chief Marty Makary resigned this week, widening a leadership gap across the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as multiple senior posts already sat vacant or rotated through acting roles. The departure comes amid what critics say is an unusual level of upheaval at the FDA and the CDC during Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s tenure.

Ex-mayor in Kansas is in custody of U.S. immigration authorities

2026-05-14

The former mayor of Coldwater, Kansas, was taken into custody by U.S. immigration authorities Wednesday after acknowledging that he voted in elections despite not being a U.S. citizen, according to his attorney. Joe Ceballos, a legal permanent U.S. resident, was detained during a meeting at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement office in Wichita, and his lawyer said he now fears deportation.

ICE found to have violated Colorado order on warrantless arrests

2026-05-14

A federal judge ruled that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Colorado violated an order limiting when they can arrest people without a warrant. The order, issued by U.S. District Senior Judge R. Brooke Jackson, required ICE to have probable cause that a person is in the country illegally and is likely to escape before officers can make a warrantless arrest.

Holocaust survivor Albrecht Weinberg dies at 101 in northwestern Germany

2026-05-14

Albrecht Weinberg, a Holocaust survivor who returned to Germany in his 80s, died Tuesday at 101 in Leer, in northwestern Germany, authorities said. Weinberg survived Nazi concentration and death camps including Auschwitz, Mittelbau-Dora and Bergen-Belsen, along with three death marches at the end of World War II.

“Alligator Alcatraz” detention center’s future uncertain as courts revisit case

2026-05-14

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Environmental groups said the timing of the expected closure of Florida’s immigration detention center in the Everglades — nicknamed “Alligator Alcatraz” — is tied to their federal lawsuit and a remand to the same judge who previously ordered the facility shut down. A federal appellate court last month kept the center open while it sent the case back for further proceedings, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said he has not received “official word” that detainee transfers will stop.

Macron ends Africa trip in Ethiopia with UN reform and governance push

2026-05-14

French President Emmanuel Macron concluded his Africa trip in Ethiopia, holding talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and meeting African Union officials and U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, according to a meeting readout shared with reporters. The leaders discussed inclusive international governance, including the longstanding question of Africa’s representation on the U.N. Security Council.

Dominican opposition criticizes U.S. deal to take third-country deportees

2026-05-14

Opposition figures in the Dominican Republic criticized a memorandum of understanding the country signed with the United States to receive some third-country deportees, saying it lacks transparency and violates national sovereignty. The non-binding agreement, announced Tuesday by the Dominican Foreign Ministry, would allow the temporary entry of a limited number of third-country nationals without criminal records before they return to their home countries.

Hill County Texas pauses new data centers in rural unincorporated areas for a year

2026-05-14

Hill County in rural Texas approved a one-year pause on construction of new data centers in unincorporated areas, commissioners said Tuesday, citing public safety and public health concerns. The board voted 3-2 on the moratorium as residents raised questions about noise, water use and the scale of a proposed development. State leaders have faced a separate pushback in other Texas counties where moratorium efforts have been rejected.

Bahamas PM Philip Davis declares victory in snap election for PLP

2026-05-14

Incumbent Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis declared victory for his Progressive Liberal Party in a snap election, saying at a Nassau rally that it was a win “for the entire country.” Davis made the remarks late Tuesday as his party was projected to win more than 30 of the election’s 41 parliamentary seats, with official results not immediately released.

California plastic recycling rules spark court threats and industry pushback

2026-05-14

California’s newly finalized rules under a landmark 2022 law require plastic producers to make packaging recyclable or compostable or otherwise comply with stepped goals. The regulations—finalized at the start of the month—have triggered lawsuits from environmental groups and complaints from industry that the requirements go too far. Sen. Ben Allen, the law’s author, said the program will still “massively moves the needle” even as he acknowledged the compromise was “not perfect.”

DNC chair Ken Martin faces internal skepticism ahead of 2026 midterms

2026-05-14

Democrats keep winning at the ballot box, but Democratic National Committee chair Ken Martin is facing a crisis of confidence among party officials ahead of the 2026 midterms. A coalition of party donors, allied strategists and influential voices has raised concerns over Martin’s leadership and his refusal to release an internal 2024 election “after-action report.” Martin has declined to comment, while allies cite a 50-state spending strategy and argue the party should stay focused on November.

Kemp signs Georgia bill making most Atlanta-area elections nonpartisan

2026-05-14

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed a law requiring nonpartisan elections for most local officials in five Atlanta-area counties, a move Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston say they will challenge in court. The law takes effect in 2028 and also changes the timing of some elections for offices other than district attorneys.

Macron faces backlash after interrupting Africa summit panel in Kenya

2026-05-14

French President Emmanuel Macron faced backlash after interrupting a panel at the Africa Forward Summit in Kenya to demand silence from the audience. Videos of the Monday intervention spread online as Macron rebuked attendees for talking over speakers during a session that featured artists and young entrepreneurs.

Ukraine court orders detention for Zelenskyy ex-chief of staff Yermak

2026-05-14

Ukraine’s former chief of staff Andrii Yermak has been named as a suspect in a corruption probe involving alleged money laundering tied to a luxury construction project outside Kyiv, two Ukrainian anti-corruption watchdogs said. A Ukrainian court this week ordered him held in pretrial detention, setting bail at 140 million hryvnias, according to the Associated Press. The watchdogs said President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is not under suspicion in the case.

US presidents need precise Taiwan wording. Sometimes they slip

2026-05-14

President Donald Trump is set to visit China this week, where U.S. officials have long relied on carefully crafted wording about Taiwan to manage tensions with Beijing. For nearly 50 years, Washington’s “strategic ambiguity” approach has avoided specifying how the United States would respond to a Taiwan crisis, even as it insists Taiwan has resources to defend itself. Past misstatements by presidents and senior officials have forced swift diplomatic clarifications.

Jeffries job grows more difficult as House speaker race resets

2026-05-13

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries’ efforts to win back control of the chamber and become speaker are being challenged by back-to-back court rulings that wiped out Democratic gains tied to Virginia’s mid-decade redistricting fight, a new Associated Press analysis said. Jeffries acknowledged the party may now have to flip far more Republican-held seats to win the majority.

FDA Commissioner Marty Makary resigns under pressure from pharma, anti-abortion, vaping allies

2026-05-13

Dr. Marty Makary, commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, resigned Tuesday after 13 months in the role, pushed out by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. following months of complaints from pharmaceutical executives, anti-abortion activists and vaping lobbyists allied with President Donald Trump. Kennedy made the decision to remove Makary and the White House signed off, according to an administration official who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Bahamians vote in snap election as PM Davis seeks second term

2026-05-13

Bahamians cast ballots Tuesday in a snap general election pitting Prime Minister Philip Davis and his Progressive Liberal Party against a resurgent opposition and a new third party, amid voter concerns over public healthcare, crime and the cost of living. The vote, called after Davis dissolved Parliament on April 8, will determine control of the island nation’s 41-seat legislature.

Denise Powell wins Nebraska’s 2nd District Democratic primary, setting up fall fight

2026-05-13

Denise Powell won the Democratic primary in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District on Wednesday, defeating state Sen. John Cavanaugh in a close race. The Omaha-area district—often described as a “blue dot” because Democrats win it in some presidential years—now sets up Powell to face Brinker Harding, an Omaha City Council member endorsed by President Donald Trump.

Bahamians head to polls in snap election after Parliament dissolved in April

2026-05-13

Bahamians voted Tuesday in a general election after Prime Minister Philip Davis dissolved Parliament on April 8 and called a snap vote. The incumbent Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) is seeking a second consecutive term, with the Free National Movement (FNM) and other candidates campaigning on issues including public health, crime, the cost of living and immigration.

Hegseth faces bipartisan grilling over Iran war costs and strategy

2026-05-13

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced pointed questions from Republican and Democratic lawmakers on Tuesday over the rising costs and uncertain endgame of the Iran war, with members of his own party pushing back on the administration’s strained alliances and the drawdown of munitions.

GOP senators question $1B White House security plan including ballroom

2026-05-13

Republican senators left a closed-door meeting with U.S. Secret Service Director Sean Curran on Tuesday requesting more details on the $1 billion security plan for the White House, including $220 million to fortify President Donald Trump’s new East Wing ballroom. The request is attached to a partisan spending bill that would restore funding for immigration enforcement agencies, but GOP skepticism could jeopardize the legislation.

Massie bets Kentucky GOP voters will ignore Trump attacks in primary

2026-05-13

Republicans in Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District are weighing Tuesday’s primary between Rep. Thomas Massie and Ed Gallrein, a challenger backed by President Donald Trump. Voters at a Lincoln Day Dinner in Covington said some are torn over how to balance support for Trump with loyalty to Massie, who has repeatedly broken with Trump’s agenda in Congress.

Trump’s redistricting push hits roadblocks in S.C., succeeds in Missouri

2026-05-13

South Carolina Republicans failed to advance a congressional redistricting proposal Tuesday, underscoring resistance within the GOP as voters prepare for primaries ahead of the November midterms. In Missouri, the state’s Supreme Court upheld a new U.S. House map that attorneys said reshapes a long-running Kansas City-area district.

Report says sexual violence was systematic and integral to Oct. 7 attacks

2026-05-13

A report by an Israeli nonprofit says sexual violence was systematic, widespread and integral to Hamas’s Oct. 7 attacks and their aftermath, based on a two-year investigation. The report, “Silenced No More,” was published Tuesday by the Civil Commission, which documents and researches gender-based violence by Hamas after its 2023 attack on Israel that sparked the war in Gaza.

What to know about Trump-Xi summit in Beijing

2026-05-13

President Xi Jinping and Donald Trump are preparing to meet in Beijing for talks that both sides say will keep U.S.-China relations broadly stable, even as major flashpoints remain on the agenda. The discussions are expected to touch trade, technology and chip restrictions, Taiwan, and the war in Iran, with China seen by some as a possible mediator.

GOP senators ask for more details on $1B White House security request

2026-05-13

Republican senators on Tuesday left a closed-door meeting with the U.S. Secret Service director saying they need more details on a $1 billion security plan for the White House, including $220 million to harden President Donald Trump’s new East Wing ballroom. The group said it wants specifics on how the money would be spent as lawmakers weigh whether to keep the funding in a partisan Senate package tied to restoring immigration enforcement money.

Colombia conflict worsens for civilians in 2025, Red Cross says

2026-05-13

Colombia’s armed conflict over the past year hit civilians the hardest in a decade as security deteriorated, the International Committee of the Red Cross said Tuesday in its annual report. The ICRC said the number of people displaced as criminal gangs and rebels fought the government and each other doubled in 2025 to 235,000, and that lockdowns imposed by rebel groups rose sharply in small towns and villages.

Hegseth grilled by lawmakers on both sides over Iran war costs

2026-05-13

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced tough questions Tuesday from Republican and Democratic lawmakers about the Trump administration’s end game for the Iran war, the conflict’s rising $29 billion cost, and the impact on U.S. weapons stockpiles. In House and Senate Appropriations defense hearings, Hegseth said U.S. munitions are not depleted and that the administration is pressing the defense industry to build more and build faster.

Obama meets with Talarico in Texas ahead of May runoff

2026-05-13

Former President Barack Obama met with Democratic U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico in Austin on Tuesday, according to the campaign’s supporters and Obama’s prior remarks. The visit aimed to boost Talarico’s bid in Texas, where Democrats face long odds in a race tied to who wins a May 26 Republican primary runoff.

Trump’s “Golden Dome” missile defense plan estimated at $1.2T over 20 years

2026-05-13

The Congressional Budget Office estimated President Donald Trump’s proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense program would cost $1.2 trillion over 20 years—far more than Trump’s earlier $175 billion figure. The estimate, requested by Sen. Jeff Merkley, comes as the Pentagon still lacks details needed for a narrower cost projection.

Armed conflict in Colombia hit civilians hardest in a decade last year, Red Cross says

2026-05-13

The impact of armed conflict on civilians in Colombia over the past year was the worst in a decade, the International Committee of the Red Cross said in an annual report released Tuesday. Displacement doubled to 235,000 people, and communities endured a sharp rise in lockdowns imposed by rebel groups as smaller armed factions vie for control of territory once dominated by the FARC.

Trump, nearly 80, sets medical checkup at Walter Reed; White House cites routine care

2026-05-13

President Donald Trump is scheduled for a medical and dental examination at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on May 26, the White House said Monday evening, describing the visit as an annual physical and routine preventive care. Trump, who turns 80 next month and is the oldest person ever elected U.S. president, has faced persistent scrutiny over his health.

Trump to have medical and dental checkup May 26 at Walter Reed

2026-05-13

President Donald Trump is scheduled to see doctors for a medical and dental checkup on May 26 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, the White House said Monday. The visit is his fourth publicized medical appointment since returning to office, described as an annual physical and regular preventive care.

Hawaii and Montana move to limit corporate campaign cash by redefining corporate powers

2026-05-13

Hawaii lawmakers on Friday sent a bill to the governor that would redefine corporations to bar them from spending on elections, and a volunteer group in Montana is collecting signatures to place a similar measure on the November ballot, as two states pursue a novel legal tactic to limit the influence of corporate and dark money in politics after the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision.

Maine ranked-choice voting remains stuck in hybrid limbo for Nov elections

2026-05-13

Maine voters will again use ranked-choice voting in this June’s primaries for governor, the state Legislature and federal offices, but the system will not be used in November’s general election for governor or the State House. The state remains divided over extending ranked-choice to those general elections after Maine’s Supreme Judicial Court issued unanimous, non-binding advisory opinions that doing so would conflict with the state Constitution, according to an Associated Press report published May 12.

States explore new approaches to limit corporate political spending

2026-05-13

Hawaii lawmakers sent a bill to Gov. Josh Green that would redefine corporations in a way supporters say would preclude election spending. In Montana, a volunteer effort is gathering signatures for a similar approach the group calls “The Montana Plan,” after a state Supreme Court ruling allowed the measure to proceed.

West Virginia primary tests new photo ID voting requirement

2026-05-13

West Virginia voters navigated a new state law requiring photo identification at the polls for the first time in Tuesday's primary, with Secretary of State Kris Warner reporting no one had demanded to vote without one and only minor hiccups. Some voters, however, voiced concern that the measure could suppress turnout, particularly among women and older residents.

Federal grand jury subpoenas NYU Langone for records on transgender youth care

2026-05-13

A federal grand jury in the Northern District of Texas has subpoenaed NYU Langone Health for records on all patients under 18 who received gender-affirming care in the last six years, the hospital system disclosed Tuesday — the first time a major medical institution has publicly acknowledged a criminal subpoena in the Trump administration’s expanding legal campaign against such treatment for transgender youths. The subpoena, issued May 7, demands patient information and the names of providers for children treated from 2020 to 2026, NYU Langone said in a statement. The health system, which operates seven inpatient facilities and more than 300 locations in the New York City area and Florida, said it was one of several institutions to receive the subpoena but was the first to confirm it.

Texas public schools lose 76,000 students; Hispanic students account for 81% of decline

2026-05-13

Roughly 76,000 fewer students enrolled in Texas public schools this academic year, the first non-pandemic enrollment decline in nearly four decades, according to a report from the policy research group Texas 2036. Hispanic students accounted for 81 percent of the drop, a finding that surfaced amid heightened anti-immigration rhetoric and enforcement activity across the state.

Arcadia, California mayor resigns, will plead guilty to acting as Chinese agent

2026-05-13

The mayor of Arcadia, California, has resigned and agreed to plead guilty to a federal felony charge of acting as an illegal agent for the Chinese government, the U.S. Attorney's Office in Los Angeles said Monday. Eileen Wang, 58, was charged in April with one count of failing to register as a foreign agent, stemming from her work promoting Chinese government content through a news website she co-operated.

Maine's ranked-choice voting remains in constitutional limbo, with no clear path forward

2026-05-13

Nearly a decade after Maine voters approved ranked-choice voting for state and federal elections, the system remains stuck in a legal and political limbo that shows no sign of resolving. Voters have twice endorsed the ballot measure, and the state uses ranked-choice voting in primaries and federal races, but the Maine Supreme Judicial Court has repeatedly advised that extending it to general elections for governor and the State Legislature would violate the state constitution. The state's latest legislative attempt to close the gap died in April, leaving Maine with what both supporters and opponents call a confusing hybrid.

85-year-old French widow recounts 16-day ICE detention, harsh conditions

2026-05-13

An 85-year-old French widow said she heard children crying and guards shouting nonstop during 16 days in a Louisiana immigration detention center, in an interview with The Associated Press that has reignited scrutiny of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement methods. Marie-Thérèse Ross, the widow of a U.S. military veteran, was arrested at her Alabama home on April 1 over an alleged visa overstay and released last month after international pressure. Her account describes officers handcuffing her in a bathrobe, the separation of mothers from their children inside the facility, and a profound shift in how she views U.S. immigration policy.

Cannes opens with Peter Jackson tribute, jury weighs politics and AI

2026-05-13

The 79th Cannes Film Festival opened Tuesday with a tribute to director Peter Jackson and a blunt discussion of geopolitics and artificial intelligence, as jury members used the platform to criticize Hollywood’s treatment of artists who speak out on Gaza and to weigh the industry’s response to AI.

Brazil's Lula launches $2 billion anti-organized crime program ahead of elections

2026-05-13

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva launched an 11 billion reais ($2 billion) public security initiative on Tuesday at the presidential palace in Brasília, targeting two of the country's largest organized crime gangs in what some political figures described as a pre-election bid to bolster his crime-fighting credentials ahead of October's general election.

Whites Only signs shaped racial workforce divide, historian tells AP

2026-05-13

The 'Whites Only' signs that once hung over Southern business doors were a daily ritual of humiliation for Black Americans and a legal enforcement of racial hierarchy, the Associated Press reported in a historical feature published Tuesday. The signs, part of the Jim Crow apparatus that stretched from Reconstruction to the 1964 Civil Rights Act, were a visible reminder of an oppressive social order.

Texas towns lead U.S. in fastest city growth amid Southern surge

2026-05-13

Small cities in the Dallas‑Fort Worth and Houston metros posted the strongest year‑over‑year population gains among U.S. municipalities with at least 20,000 residents between mid‑2024 and mid‑2025, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Celina, Princeton, Melissa, Anna and Fulshear recorded growth rates from roughly 15% to 25%, outpacing larger cities such as Seattle and Houston. The surge reflects a healthy job market and comparatively affordable housing in the South, said Census Bureau statistician Matt Erickson.

Lawsuit says Trump, DeSantis violated U.S. Constitution in Miami land donation

2026-05-13

President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis face a lawsuit over a plan to donate a downtown Miami parcel for Trump’s presidential library, with plaintiffs alleging the deal violates the Constitution’s Domestic Emoluments Clause. The suit, filed in Miami by attorneys representing a Miami Dade College student and others, seeks to block the land transfer and characterizes the proposed library as potentially including a hotel.

Federal prosecutors seek NYU hospital info on gender-affirming care for trans kids

2026-05-13

Federal prosecutors in Texas have sought records from NYU Langone Health about children who received gender-affirming care and the providers who administered it, the hospital system said. NYU Langone said it received a grand jury subpoena in a federal criminal investigation and is deciding how to respond. The move is part of broader efforts by the Trump administration to restrict gender-affirming care for transgender youth.

Arcadia mayor Eileen Wang resigns, to plead guilty in China-agent case

2026-05-13

LOS ANGELES — Arcadia Mayor Eileen Wang has resigned and agreed to plead guilty to acting as an illegal agent for the Chinese government, according to federal officials and city authorities. Wang, 58, was charged in April with one count of acting in the U.S. as an illegal agent of a foreign government for conduct officials said ended when she took office in December 2022.

Brazil government launches $2 billion anti-organized crime program ahead of elections

2026-05-13

Brazil’s government launched a new anti-organized crime program with 11 billion reais (about $2 billion) in spending on public security, citing arms trafficking, criminal finances, and improvements to homicide investigations. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said he discussed the plan with U.S. President Donald Trump during Trump’s visit to Washington last week.

Argentines protest Milei funding cuts to public universities nationwide

2026-05-13

Tens of thousands of Argentines protested Tuesday against President Javier Milei’s funding cuts to the public university system, as marches drew students and other demonstrators in major cities including Buenos Aires. Protesters denounced budget shortfalls they said are eroding higher education, and argued the government has not implemented a law Congress passed last year to fund universities’ operating costs and raise teacher salaries.

Historic “whites only” signs in the U.S. South marked racial segregation

2026-05-13

The Associated Press examined “Whites Only” signage as a visible, daily reminder of Jim Crow-era racism in the American South, drawing on the U.S. effort to mark the country’s 250th anniversary. The signs helped enforce segregation in public places after Reconstruction ended, with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 later ending legalized racial separatism, AP reported.

85-year-old French widow recounts ICE detention in Louisiana

2026-05-13

An 85-year-old French widow, Marie-Thérèse Ross, has described her 16 days in federal immigration custody in Louisiana after she was arrested in Alabama last month on an alleged visa overstay. In an interview with The Associated Press, Ross said guards shouted and treated detainees condescendingly, and that she heard children crying, including babies, in the facility.

Hungarian Cabinet sworn in as Péter Magyar takes power from Orbán

2026-05-13

Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar’s new Cabinet was sworn into office Tuesday, marking the final transfer of power from Viktor Orbán’s outgoing administration. The swearing-in followed two days of parliamentary committee hearings, as Magyar moved to quickly reset Hungary’s political direction. Speaking in parliament, Magyar said the government being formed would be “the government of all Hungarians” and described it as “a servant of the nation and not of the prime minister.”

Marty Makary is out as Trump’s FDA chief; acting role goes to Kyle Diamantas

2026-05-13

Dr. Marty Makary, the head of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, is resigning after a rocky tenure marked by internal upheaval and growing pressure from multiple interest groups aligned with President Donald Trump, the Associated Press reported Tuesday. Trump said he likes Makary and confirmed that Kyle Diamantas, the FDA’s chief for foods, is expected to take over as acting commissioner.

Starmer faces calls to step down as junior ministers resign

2026-05-13

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer insisted on Tuesday that he has no intention of resigning as calls for him to step down grew within the Labour Party and several junior ministers quit in protest. The party’s Cabinet meeting came a day before King Charles III is scheduled to deliver the government’s program for Parliament’s new session.

West Virginia primary tests new photo ID requirement at polls

2026-05-13

West Virginia voters cast ballots in Tuesday’s primary while state law required photo identification at polling places for the first time, election officials said. The requirement came as voters nominated candidates for U.S. Senate, U.S. House and the state legislature, and selected two new state Supreme Court justices.

Montana judge blocks law limiting Election Day voter registration, citing harm to Native and young voters

2026-05-12

A Montana state judge has blocked a Republican-backed law that would have ended Election Day voter registration after noon for federal races, ruling late Friday that the restriction would disproportionately harm Native American and young voters. The law, passed in 2025, marked the second attempt by the legislature to curtail same-day registration, which voters overwhelmingly backed in a 2014 ballot measure.

GOP senators block Democrats’ effort to undo Trump CFPB changes

2026-05-12

Senate Republicans blocked Wednesday votes by Senate Democrats to roll back several Trump-era policy changes at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, including rules tied to how overdraft fees can be charged. The Senate rejected three Democratic resolutions as Democrats used the votes to press Republicans in an election year, while Republicans defended the CFPB changes and said the agency has too much centralized power.

Alternative events seek to counter Eurovision amid protests over Israel

2026-05-12

Palestinian songwriter Bashar Murad performed in Brussels as activists organized “United for Palestine” ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, which features Israel amid criticism tied to the war in Gaza. Protest organizers and rights advocates have pushed for Israel’s exclusion, while five countries are boycotting the contest this week. Similar alternative broadcasts and concerts are planned across Europe, including in Spain.

Montana judge blocks law limiting Election Day voter registration

2026-05-12

A Montana judge has blocked the state from enforcing a 2025 law that would have prevented voters from registering after noon on Election Day for presidential, U.S. Senate and U.S. House races. The order, issued late Friday by District Judge Adam Larsen, will stay in effect through a trial scheduled for late August. Larsen said the change would disproportionately harm Native American and young voters.

Survey work begins on Trump’s proposed Triumphal Arch in Washington

2026-05-12

Workers began preliminary surveys and geotechnical testing Monday at the proposed site for a Triumphal Arch sought by President Donald Trump in Washington, the Associated Press reported. The work is being carried out between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery as part of steps the administration said are needed before any final authorization to build. The proposal, which would be about 250 feet tall, has drawn opposition including a federal lawsuit.

Raffensperger running for Georgia governor after defying Trump in 2020

2026-05-12

In Georgia’s Republican gubernatorial primary next Tuesday, former state election chief Brad Raffensperger is trying to break from the political label he earned after defying Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election. The candidate, a conservative Christian businessman, is spending millions of his own money and says he wants voters to focus on jobs and government priorities rather than the fight that put him in Trump’s crosshairs.

Survey work begins on Trump’s proposed D.C. arch as lawsuit proceeds

2026-05-12

Workers began preliminary surveys and testing Monday at the proposed site of a 250-foot Triumphal Arch sought by President Donald Trump, adding a new step to the contentious project as a federal lawsuit seeks to block construction. The site, between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery, was fenced off with pink survey flags, and the work was disclosed in a court filing Thursday in the ongoing suit.

Interior Department cancels conservation rule on public lands, a key Biden-era policy

2026-05-12

The Interior Department is canceling a 2024 rule that put conservation on equal footing with development on federally managed public lands, a move the Trump administration said will boost energy production and grazing but that conservation groups warned will harm water and wildlife. The repeal, announced Monday, is effective 30 days after its publication in the Federal Register, scheduled for Tuesday.

Nobel laureate Mohammadi needs months of care after prison collapse, doctors say

2026-05-12

Doctors who examined Nobel Peace laureate Narges Mohammadi more than a week after she collapsed in an Iranian prison said she needs months of treatment, her foundation announced Wednesday. An angiography revealed two of her main arteries are significantly blocked and her vascular disease has worsened since 2024. The 53-year-old activist was released on bail nearly 10 days after collapsing and taken to a hospital in Tehran, where her specialists are monitoring her.

Open Society Foundations commits $30M to counter antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate

2026-05-12

Open Society Foundations, the philanthropy founded by billionaire George Soros, announced Wednesday it will direct $30 million over the next three years to groups fighting antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate, responding to what its president called “indiscriminate prejudice” fueled by the Israel-Hamas war and the fragile ceasefire.

EU Commission asks member states to ban ‘conversion therapy’

2026-05-12

BRUSSELS — The European Commission said Wednesday it will propose legislation requiring all 27 European Union nations to outlaw so-called conversion therapy, responding to a citizen petition signed by more than a million people and intensifying a push for LGBTQ+ protections across the bloc.

Interior Department cancels conservation rule on public lands

2026-05-12

The Trump administration is canceling a rule that put conservation on equal footing with development on taxpayer-owned public lands managed by the Interior Department’s Bureau of Land Management. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said the change could have blocked access to hundreds of thousands of acres, while conservation advocates said the rollback would weaken protections for water and wildlife.

Nobel laureate Mohammadi needs months of care, foundation says

2026-05-12

Doctors who examined Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi more than a week after she collapsed in an Iran prison said she needs months of treatment, her foundation said Wednesday. The foundation said an angiography procedure showed major artery blockage and that her vascular disease has worsened since 2024.

Indonesian prosecutors seek 18-year prison sentence for Gojek co-founder

2026-05-12

Indonesian prosecutors on Wednesday sought an 18-year prison sentence for Gojek co-founder Nadiem Anwar Makarim in a corruption case tied to the procurement of Google Chromebook laptops for schools during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to court testimony at Jakarta’s Corruption Court.

EU leaders push to outlaw gay conversion therapy ahead of Pride festival

2026-05-12

Brussels (AP) — The European Commission said it will ask EU countries to outlaw gay “conversion therapy,” ahead of this week’s Brussels Pride festival. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said “conversion practices” have “no place in our Union,” as the executive sought to turn long-promised protections for LGBTQ+ people into a binding ban. The move comes days before tens of thousands are expected to march in the Belgian capital for the parade’s 30th annual edition.

Former private prison executive David Venturella to lead ICE acting

2026-05-12

The Trump administration says former private prison executive David Venturella will become the acting leader of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after ICE’s current director steps down at the end of the month. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said late Tuesday that Venturella would succeed Todd Lyons, who led the agency during the administration’s crackdown on immigration.

Open Society Foundations pledge $30M to combat antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate

2026-05-12

Open Society Foundations said it will spend $30 million over the next three years to support groups tackling antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate, linking the effort to the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war and the fragile ceasefire. The major U.S. human-rights funder said the grants aim to strengthen interfaith partnerships and protect communities facing heightened threats. Open Society Foundations President Binaifer Nowrojee made the case in a statement as the foundations prepare to carry out the grantmaking after earlier scrutiny tied to U.S. political attacks.

Ukraine anti-graft agencies name ex-Zelenskyy chief of staff suspect in $10.5M laundering probe

2026-05-11

Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office said Tuesday they have named former presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak as an official suspect in an alleged 460-million-hryvnia ($10.5 million) money-laundering scheme, a step short of formal charges in a widening corruption investigation that has entangled several senior officials.

Ukraine names Zelenskyy ex-chief of staff Yermak suspect in graft probe

2026-05-11

Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau and a specialized anti-corruption prosecutor’s office named Andriy Yermak, Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s former chief of staff, as a suspect in a money-laundering investigation. The agencies said Zelenskyy is not suspected in the case, which they described as involving an alleged 460 million hryvnias ($10.5 million). The announcement came as Zelenskyy met Palantir Technologies CEO Alex Karp in Kyiv and Russia launched more than 200 drones against Ukraine overnight, officials said.

Military denies Amnesty claim of 100 killed in Nigeria market airstrike

2026-05-11

Nigeria’s military denied a rights group’s claim that an airstrike on Sunday hit a market in Tumfa, Zamfara state, killing 100 civilians, as fighting with armed groups continued in the country’s volatile north. Amnesty International said multiple civilians were killed in the strike and quoted local accounts, while a Red Cross official confirmed the strike and said “multiple civilians” were killed. A military spokesperson said “no verifiable evidence” of civilian casualties had been established and insisted civilians were not the target.

Super Bowl halftime disruptor found guilty of resisting an officer

2026-05-11

A performer who disrupted Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime performance was found guilty Monday of resisting an officer, after police said he ran across the field at the Caesars Superdome with a Sudanese flag reading “Sudan and Free Gaza.” The case in New Orleans ended with the performer convicted only of the misdemeanor resisting charge, with sentencing set for June 1.

UK Labour leader Starmer faces calls to resign after election losses

2026-05-11

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under growing pressure from within his own party, with dozens of Labour lawmakers urging him to resign after heavy local election defeats and fallout over his appointment of Peter Mandelson as ambassador to Washington, the Associated Press reported Tuesday.

Museveni sworn in for 7th term; son Muhoozi emerges as de facto leader

2026-05-11

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni was sworn in Tuesday for a seventh consecutive term, extending his 40-year rule as his son, army chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, oversaw a military parade that underscored the young general’s rise as the country’s de facto leader, the Associated Press reported.

Tongass plan revision draws criticism over timeline, old-growth protections

2026-05-11

Southeast Alaska residents told the U.S. Forest Service in more than 300 public comments that a proposed revision of the Tongass National Forest management plan is moving too fast and fails to adequately protect old-growth forests, salmon streams and subsistence uses, while mining and timber interests argued the plan should expand access to resource extraction.

Super Bowl protester found guilty of resisting officer; sentencing June 1

2026-05-11

Zul-Qarnain Kwame Nantambu, 41, was among the dancers in black outfits during the Feb. 9, 2025, halftime show but deviated from his role when he displayed a flag bearing the phrase 'Sudan and Free Gaza' atop a prop car, then jumped off the stage and ran from security, according to Louisiana State Police. Chief Judge Juana Marine-Lombard found him guilty only of resisting an officer after a bench trial.

Malaysia searches for 14 missing after migrant boat sinks off Pangkor

2026-05-11

Malaysian authorities searched Tuesday for 14 Indonesians missing after a boat carrying over 30 people sank off the island of Pangkor in Perak state, according to the state's maritime office. A fishing vessel rescued 23 people before dawn Monday, finding them floating at sea.

Israel bulldozes 50 Palestinian shops to make way for settlement-linked road project

2026-05-11

Israeli military bulldozers razed roughly 50 Palestinian-owned shops and businesses on the edge of a town southeast of Jerusalem on Tuesday, as authorities pushed forward a road project that critics say will deepen Israeli control over a strategic section of the occupied West Bank. Israeli officials say the demolitions clear land for a new route intended to improve traffic for Palestinian communities. Palestinian leaders, rights groups and an anti-settlement watchdog contend the project is designed to reroute Palestinian drivers off a highway built to serve nearby Israeli settlements, cutting West Bank Palestinians off from a wide swath of territory.

Starmer resists calls to resign as UK prime minister after Labour losses

2026-05-11

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced calls from dozens of his own Labour Party lawmakers to resign Tuesday, after a resounding defeat in local elections and the resignation of several junior ministers. Starmer said he intended to continue governing, but his hold on power could slip further if the revolt grows.

Contenders to replace Keir Starmer as Labour leader face uncertainty

2026-05-11

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s grip on leadership appears weaker after Labour suffered heavy defeats in local elections last week, according to Associated Press. Starmer has insisted he will stay, with no formal leadership challenge launched yet, but dozens of Labour lawmakers have called for him to step down. AP outlined several leading contenders who could potentially replace him, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting, former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner and former energy secretary Ed Miliband.

Israeli bulldozers raze Palestinian shops ahead of West Bank road project

2026-05-11

Israeli bulldozers demolished dozens of Palestinian shops in al-Eizariya, a town southeast of Jerusalem, as authorities cleared land for a settlement-linked road project in the occupied West Bank, according to the Associated Press. Palestinian officials said the road plan is aimed at restricting Palestinian access to a new highway being built for nearby Israeli settlements. The demolitions followed eviction notices that some shop owners challenged, including an appeal to Israel’s Supreme Court.

Challenges facing Starmer to stay UK prime minister, explained

2026-05-11

Keir Starmer is facing calls from lawmakers in his own Labour Party to step down after Labour’s resounding defeat in local elections last week, leaving Britain’s political succession questions in play before the next national vote. The Prime Minister said Tuesday he wanted to press on with governing, after several junior ministers quit and urged his resignation.

Southeast Alaskans weigh in on draft Tongass plan shaping timber, mining

2026-05-11

Southeast Alaska residents submitted more than 300 comments to the U.S. Forest Service on a revised management direction for the Tongass National Forest, expressing sharply divided views over timber, mining and protections for old-growth forests. Supporters of mining and timber said the plan should better accommodate mineral exploration and development, while conservation advocates and other residents criticized the process as rushed and urged stronger safeguards for wildlife and old-growth. The Forest Service said the preliminary draft plan’s comment period has closed and that it will publish a draft plan and environmental impact statement later this year, with a final forest plan set for 2028.

Uganda's Museveni sworn in for seventh term, with son Muhoozi poised

2026-05-11

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni was sworn in Tuesday for a seventh consecutive term, extending his rule by five years in a transition many expect to involve his son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba. The 81-year-old took the oath in Kampala as thousands attended the ceremony and the military parade featured Russian-made Sukhoi fighter jets overhead, according to the Associated Press.

Trump-Xi summit tests Taiwan's security amid questions over U.S. commitment

2026-05-10

President Donald Trump’s summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping this week is raising renewed questions about the durability of U.S. support for Taiwan, as Trump’s past criticism of the island democracy and his transactional approach to diplomacy stoke concern that Taiwan could become a bargaining chip in negotiations.

Trump to press Xi on jailed Hong Kong activist Jimmy Lai at Beijing summit

2026-05-10

U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to raise the case of jailed pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai during an upcoming summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping, with Lai’s family and more than 100 bipartisan U.S. lawmakers urging Trump to press for the 78-year-old’s release. Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison last year under Hong Kong’s national security law, and his son fears he will die in custody.

After Supreme Court ruling, GOP-led states rush to redraw congressional maps

2026-05-10

A nationwide redistricting battle over U.S. House seats tilted further toward Republicans this week, as GOP-led legislatures in Alabama, Louisiana, South Carolina, and Tennessee raced to redraw congressional maps following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that weakened Voting Rights Act protections for minority communities. Meanwhile, a Virginia state court dealt a setback to Democrats, invalidating a redistricting amendment that could have given the party up to four additional seats.

Trump nominates Cameron Hamilton to lead FEMA a year after his firing

2026-05-10

President Donald Trump on Monday nominated Cameron Hamilton to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency, about a year after the former Navy SEAL was fired as FEMA’s temporary leader. The nomination comes as the administration signals it is backing away from earlier promises to dismantle the agency.

Putin marks Victory Day with scaled-down Red Square parade under tight security

2026-05-10

Russian President Vladimir Putin attended a scaled-down Victory Day parade on Moscow’s Red Square on Saturday, with tightened security and no heavy military equipment for the first time in nearly two decades. The parade took place during a three-day ceasefire brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, easing concerns about possible Ukrainian attempts to disrupt the festivities. Putin used the event to praise Russian troops fighting in Ukraine and to accuse Western “globalist elites” of arming Kyiv, while also saying “the matter is coming to an end.”

Trump presses Washington renovation blitz as Iran, economic pressures mount

2026-05-10

President Donald Trump inspected the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on Thursday, days after ordering it repainted a shade he calls “American flag blue,” as his administration pushes a sweeping overhaul of Washington landmarks that has drawn legal challenges, preservationist opposition, and questions about the president’s priorities amid a volatile ceasefire with Iran and rising consumer costs.

Trump religious liberty commission's wish list includes scrapping church-state separation

2026-05-10

A presidential commission on religious liberty is developing recommendations that include rejecting the constitutional separation of church and state, according to proceedings from the panel's April meeting. The commission's chair, Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, called church-state separation 'a lie' and suggested printing 'a million bumper stickers' to that effect, drawing no dissent from members.

Trump’s religious liberty panel weighs wish lists, including ending church-state separation

2026-05-10

Commissioners for a Trump religious liberty advisory panel met in April and shared policy “wish lists” for a final report still being drafted, according to the Associated Press. Several of the recommendations would expand religion-related exemptions and government support for faith groups, while critics argue the panel is dominated by conservative Christian viewpoints and threatens the constitutional separation of church and state.

Trump’s Reflecting Pool and golf-course plans highlight power play in DC

2026-05-10

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump has focused on high-profile changes to public spaces in Washington in recent days, including ordering the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool repainted a color he has described as “American flag blue,” according to a report published this week. He has also discussed transforming a Washington golf course into a premium, championship-caliber facility, as disputes and lawsuits over preservation and environmental impacts have continued.

UK elections: Starmer faces calls to resign after Labour losses

2026-05-10

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged to revive his struggling government after a disastrous set of local and regional elections for his Labour Party, results released Saturday showed. As the final counts came in, Labour suffered a net loss of more than 1,100 local council seats in England, lost control of several local authorities it had held for decades, and was booted from power in Wales after 27 years, according to the Associated Press.

Virginia Democrats ask Supreme Court to halt redistricting ruling

2026-05-10

Virginia Democrats on Monday filed an emergency appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court, asking the justices to halt a state court ruling that invalidated a voter-approved congressional map and denied the party four winnable U.S. House seats. The appeal comes after the Virginia Supreme Court ruled 4-3 on Friday that the Democratic-controlled legislature improperly began the process of placing the redistricting amendment on the ballot after early voting had already started in the 2025 general election.

Trump says he’ll move to suspend federal gas tax, needs Congress

2026-05-10

President Donald Trump said Monday he will move to suspend the federal gasoline tax, a step he cannot take alone, as surging fuel prices driven by the Iran war pressure American households and raise alarms among Republicans ahead of the midterm elections. Congress would have to approve the suspension, and lawmakers from both parties have signaled openness to the idea while some Republicans express reservations about the loss of highway trust fund revenue.

Senate GOP pushes $1B ballroom security plan as Democrats, some Republicans balk

2026-05-10

Senate Republicans added $1 billion in Secret Service funding for President Trump's White House ballroom project to a partisan spending bill, defending it Monday as necessary to protect the president in a dangerous world. Democrats called it a "staggering waste" and pledged to strip it, while some GOP senators demanded more detail and reaffirmed that construction costs should come from private donors.

Virginia Supreme Court voids Democrats’ congressional map, delivering midterm setback

2026-05-10

Virginia’s highest court struck down a voter-approved Democratic congressional redistricting plan on Friday, ruling 4–3 that the legislature violated procedural rules when placing the constitutional amendment on the ballot. The decision wipes away a map that had promised Democrats up to four additional U.S. House seats in a state currently split 6–5 in their favor, reinforcing Republican redistricting advantages nationwide ahead of the 2026 midterms.

Oregon gas-tax repeal on May ballot pits road funding against soaring prices

2026-05-10

Oregon voters will decide whether to repeal a gas-tax increase in the May 19 primary, a referendum that pits the state's need for road-repair funding against the highest gasoline prices since the Iran war began. The Democratic-controlled Legislature raised the tax last fall to pay for transportation projects; Republicans gathered 250,000 signatures to put the increase before voters.

Michigan appeals court issues split ruling on local solar permitting rules

2026-05-10

A state appeals court on Thursday upheld most of Michigan’s rules limiting local control over large renewable energy projects, while rejecting two provisions that legal challengers argued exceeded the state’s regulatory authority. The Michigan Court of Appeals panel found that state regulators followed proper legal processes when implementing the 2023 law, but ruled on two specific points in favor of dozens of local governments that sued over the permitting framework.

Rwanda-backed rebels say U.S. sanctions show mediator bias in Congo conflict

2026-05-10

(AP) — A coalition of Rwanda-backed rebels in Congo has accused the Trump administration of abandoning the impartiality required to mediate peace in the country's mineral-rich east, arguing in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Washington has sanctioned opponents of the Congolese government but failed to pressure Kinshasa over alleged ceasefire violations.

Supreme Court allows Alabama to revert to single majority-Black district ahead of midterms

2026-05-10

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday cleared the way for Alabama to drop one of its two majority-Black congressional districts before November’s midterm elections, handing Republicans a significant victory in the fight for control of the narrowly divided U.S. House. The ruling, which lifted a lower court order requiring the use of a court-drawn map with two largely Black districts, came just one week before Alabama’s primary elections. It follows an April decision that struck down a majority-Black district in Louisiana as an unconstitutional racial gerrymander, weakening a core section of the Voting Rights Act.

What to expect in West Virginia’s primaries for Senate, House and courts

2026-05-10

Voting in West Virginia’s primary election opens Tuesday with polls closing at 7:30 p.m. ET, and with separate ballots for party-registered voters. The election includes contests for the U.S. Senate and House, state Senate and House races, and special and general elections for members of the state judiciary. Republican Gov. Patrick Morrisey is not on the ballot but is backing candidates in key primaries as U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito seeks a third term.

New political map sends longtime Memphis neighbors into different districts

2026-05-10

The Tennessee Republican-controlled legislature has redrawn Memphis’s U.S. House districts, splitting longtime neighbors into separate congressional seats for the November midterms. The changes follow a U.S. Supreme Court decision that weakened how courts review the Voting Rights Act’s race-related protections in redistricting.

Ramaphosa says he won’t resign as South Africa revives impeachment cash probe

2026-05-10

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said Monday he will not resign as Parliament establishes an impeachment committee to reinvestigate allegations tied to a cash scandal. In a televised address, Ramaphosa said he would challenge the parliamentary report that found credible evidence of misconduct, a legal process that could delay possible impeachment proceedings.

New U.S. congressional map changes favor Republicans in courts, states

2026-05-10

The remaking of the U.S. political map accelerated this week in courts and state legislatures, with multiple changes expected to benefit Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. A Virginia Supreme Court ruling struck down a voter-approved Democratic congressional map, while states elsewhere moved quickly amid fallout from a U.S. Supreme Court decision last month.

2 Israeli soldiers get prison for desecration of Christian statue in Lebanon

2026-05-10

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli troops will spend weeks in military prison after a video circulated showing one soldier allegedly defacing a statue of the Virgin Mary in southern Lebanon and another taking a photograph of it, the Israeli military said. The soldier who posed faced 21 days in military prison and the one who photographed it was sentenced to 14 days, the military said Monday.

Alabama lawmakers approve new US House primary if courts allow changes

2026-05-10

Alabama lawmakers on Friday approved legislation creating a new primary election for some U.S. House seats if courts allow Republican-drawn districts to be used for the November midterms, setting up another round of legal fights over voting maps. The plan was signed quickly into law by Gov. Kay Ivey. The move comes as Virginia’s top court struck down a separate Democratic redistricting effort over ballot-timing rules, and other Southern states weigh congressional-map changes amid renewed Republican hopes for additional House seats.

Rubio defends new US sanctions aimed at Cuba’s GAESA

2026-05-10

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the Trump administration’s decision to impose new sanctions on Cuba, including measures targeting GAESA, a military-run business conglomerate. In remarks Friday, Rubio said the sanctions were aimed at GAESA, and not at Cubans, as the administration also moved to widen authorities that can reach foreign partners.

Senate Republicans defend $1B plan for Trump’s White House ballroom security

2026-05-10

Senate Republicans said they will move forward with a proposal to give the U.S. Secret Service up to $1 billion for security upgrades to Donald Trump’s White House ballroom project, with Democrats pledging to fight the plan. The proposal adds the money to a partisan spending bill that Republicans say would restore funding for immigration enforcement agencies.

Supreme Court halts Alabama plan for a House map with 2 Black districts

2026-05-10

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday set the stage for Alabama to eliminate one of two largely Black congressional districts before the May midterm elections. The decision overturns a judicial order that had required Alabama to use a court-imposed U.S. House map and directs a lower court to reconsider the case in light of the just-completed Voting Rights Act analysis in a similar Louisiana case.

Syria’s interim president reshuffles top posts, removing brother

2026-05-10

Syria’s interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa removed his brother, Maher al-Sharaa, from a top government post in a reshuffle announced Saturday, state news agency SANA reported. The changes come as Syria’s new leadership tries to consolidate authority after the fall of Bashar Assad’s government.

Virginia Supreme Court strikes down Democrats’ mid-decade House maps

2026-05-10

The Virginia Supreme Court ruled Friday that the state Democratic-led legislature violated procedural requirements when it put a constitutional amendment on the ballot to allow mid-decade U.S. House redistricting, a decision that benefits Republicans ahead of this year’s midterms. The court ruled 4-3 that voters’ April 21 approval cannot revive the plan because the amendment was submitted “in an unprecedented manner,” according to the majority.

Hundreds flee Haiti’s capital as new gang violence spreads toward airport

2026-05-10

Hundreds of people fled new gang violence in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, over the weekend, scattering families along roads leading to the country’s main airport, residents said Monday. In a statement released Monday, Doctors Without Borders said it evacuated its hospital in Cité Soleil after intense clashes and treated more than 40 gunshot victims within 12 hours.

NSF suspends 18 UC Berkeley research grants despite court injunction

2026-05-10

The National Science Foundation suspended at least 18 research grants to UC Berkeley in April, attorneys representing university scientists said, raising concerns the Trump administration is circumventing a federal court order that restored previously canceled projects.

Trump Administration Releases New Batch of Pentagon UFO Records

2026-05-10

The Trump administration opened a new chapter in government transparency on unidentified anomalous phenomena Friday, releasing a trove of declassified videos, memos, and imagery that it hopes will let the public draw its own conclusions about decades of unresolved sightings.

Trump administration orders sweeping rollback of hunting restrictions on public lands

2026-05-10

The Trump administration has ordered federal land managers to dramatically scale back restrictions on hunting and fishing across national parks, wildlife refuges, and wilderness areas, raising concerns about visitor safety and the impact on wildlife. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum issued the directive in January, instructing agencies to remove what he called “unnecessary regulatory or administrative barriers” and to justify any regulations they wish to keep.

Trump administration lifts hunting restrictions in national parks and refuges

2026-05-10

The Trump administration is pushing managers of national parks, refuges and wilderness areas to substantially scale back hunting restrictions, according to an Interior Department order issued in January. The order directs agencies to remove what Interior Secretary Doug Burgum described as “unnecessary regulatory or administrative barriers” to hunting and fishing, and to justify any limits that remain.

AP photojournalist describes rare White House angle for Trump, King Charles

2026-05-10

Jacquelyn Martin, an Associated Press staff photojournalist, described how she was granted a rare vantage point in the White House “diplomatic room” as President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump awaited King Charles III and Queen Camilla for a state visit. In remarks tied to an AP “One Extraordinary Photo” feature, Martin said she used brief exposure adjustments to capture both a silhouette moment and later portraits once the royal party arrived.

Trump administration again suspends UC Berkeley research grants

2026-05-10

The Trump administration suspended at least 18 research grants to UC Berkeley in April, according to an attorney representing university scientists in a class action lawsuit. The suspensions occurred despite a federal court injunction restricting such actions, the attorney said, and the NSF declined to comment. UC Berkeley spokesperson Dan Mogulof said the university is engaging with the government and remains committed to compliance with federal rules.

US lifts visa pause for doctors, but many other applicants remain stuck

2026-05-10

The Trump administration has begun reviewing immigration applications for physicians with pending cases, a change that could help ease staffing shortages in underserved areas while other categories of applicants remain subject to a pause, according to U.S. government officials and immigration advocates. The move follows a broader halt on processing green cards and visas for people from countries considered “high-risk,” and comes as physicians and other affected applicants say uncertainty around deadlines and interviews is worsening.

Venezuela acting president rejects Trump’s “51st state” remarks at ICJ

2026-05-10

Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, told journalists Monday that her country has no plans to become the 51st U.S. state after President Donald Trump said he was “seriously considering” the move. Speaking at the International Court of Justice in The Hague on the final day of hearings in a dispute with Guyana over the Essequibo region, Rodríguez said Venezuela would “continue to defend” its sovereignty.

Alabama attorney general announces civil probe of Southern Poverty Law Center

2026-05-10

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall announced a civil investigation Monday into the Southern Poverty Law Center's fundraising practices, issuing a subpoena for records of donations and payments to informants. The inquiry comes after a federal criminal indictment unsealed last week accused the nonprofit of fraud for using funds to pay informants inside extremist groups. The SPLC said it is reviewing the subpoena and has called the federal allegations 'provably wrong.'

Pentagon releases new UAP files, Trump urges public to interpret for themselves

2026-05-10

The Pentagon on Friday began releasing a new batch of declassified files on unidentified anomalous phenomena, including decades-old State Department cables, FBI interviews, NASA transcripts and military sensor videos, as President Donald Trump encouraged the public to draw their own conclusions from the material.

Pentagon begins releasing UFO files as Trump urges public to interpret

2026-05-10

The Pentagon began releasing a new batch of records and videos about unidentified anomalous phenomena on Friday, as President Donald Trump renewed attention on the topic and urged the public to “decide for themselves.” The files include old State Department cables, FBI documents and NASA transcripts, along with military videos and written reports describing hundreds of sightings dating to the 1940s.

Pentagon UFO files released as it urges public to interpret

2026-05-10

The Pentagon on Friday began releasing a new batch of declassified records related to unidentified aerial phenomena, including older State Department cables, FBI documents and NASA transcripts. The files describe cases the U.S. government still considers unresolved, and President Donald Trump highlighted the release as the public tries to interpret what the records show.

Federal judge dismisses Raymond Epps defamation suit against Fox News

2026-05-10

A federal judge dismissed Raymond Epps’ defamation lawsuit against Fox News, ruling that Epps did not show enough evidence that the network knew its statements were false. U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Hall granted Fox’s motion to dismiss in Delaware on Friday, a second dismissal in the case.

Alabama AG launches civil probe into SPLC fundraising practices

2026-05-10

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall announced a civil investigation into the Southern Poverty Law Center’s fundraising practices. The probe follows a federal indictment of the organization announced by the U.S. Department of Justice.

Pope Leo signals openness but limits on LGBTQ+ ministry, Vatican report features gay testimony

2026-05-10

Pope Leo XIV said social justice and equality should take priority over sexual morality in preserving church unity, according to an Associated Press report, as the Vatican released a synod document featuring the testimonies of two gay married Catholics — a first for an official Vatican report. The remarks came in a May 7 airborne news conference, while German bishops faced renewed Vatican pushback over guidelines for blessing same-sex couples.

Starmer vows to stay as Labour suffers heavy losses in UK local elections

2026-05-10

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged to rebuild his struggling government after a disastrous set of local and regional elections that saw his Labour Party lose more than 1,100 council seats and its 27-year hold on power in Wales. The results, finalized Saturday, marked a breakthrough for Nigel Farage’s anti-immigration Reform UK, which gained over 1,300 seats, and prompted a growing number of Labour lawmakers to urge Starmer to set a timetable for his departure.

Tucson advocates map ICE enforcement activity as arrests surge

2026-05-10

Tucson advocates have launched an online map documenting immigration enforcement activity across the city as arrests surge under the Trump administration’s mass deportation initiative, offering a public record of incidents that often go unseen.

Pew: Half of Under-50s Get Health Advice From Social Media; Few Influencers Are Credentialed

2026-05-10

About 4 in 10 U.S. adults — and roughly half of those under 50 — now get health and wellness information from social media or podcasts, according to a new survey by the Pew Research Center. Yet the study also found that only about 4 in 10 health influencers with at least 100,000 followers list a background as a health professional, raising concerns about the quality of advice reaching millions.

Ramaphosa refuses to resign as South Africa opens impeachment committee

2026-05-10

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said Monday he will not resign and will legally challenge a parliamentary report that found evidence of misconduct, hours after the legislature launched an impeachment committee to reinvestigate a scandal over missing cash at his private game ranch.

Miami-Dade sergeants sue Affleck and Damon over "The Rip"

2026-05-10

Two sergeants with the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office have filed a defamation lawsuit against Artists Equity, the production company of Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, claiming the Netflix thriller “The Rip” used too many real-life details from a 2016 narcotics case and harmed their reputations.

Newark voters weigh in on Baraka's fourth-term bid in nonpartisan mayoral race

2026-05-10

Newark, New Jersey, voters head to the polls Tuesday to choose the city's mayor, with incumbent Ras Baraka seeking a fourth term against seven challengers. The nonpartisan race caps a turbulent year for Baraka, whose reelection bid follows his arrest at an immigration protest and a failed run for governor.

Libyan-linked vessels fire on Sea-Watch rescue ship in Mediterranean, aid group says

2026-05-10

Armed vessels linked to the Libyan coast guard fired live ammunition at the humanitarian rescue ship Sea‑Watch 5 on Monday shortly after it had pulled approximately 90 migrants from an overcrowded wooden boat in the central Mediterranean, the German aid group Sea‑Watch said. The crew, along with about 30 people on board, feared for their lives and issued a mayday call, the group said. An Italian coast guard official confirmed receipt of the report and said authorities had been notified.

Laura Fernández sworn in as Costa Rica president, keeps Chaves in dual cabinet posts

2026-05-10

Laura Fernández was sworn in as president of Costa Rica on Friday in San Jose, and immediately appointed outgoing president Rodrigo Chaves — an ally of U.S. President Donald Trump — as minister of the presidency and minister of finance, a move that grants Chaves four more years of legal immunity as he faces several corruption investigations, according to the Associated Press.

US lifts hold on immigration applications for doctors, leaves thousands waiting

2026-05-10

The Trump administration has quietly exempted physicians from a sweeping pause on green card and visa reviews, a move that could provide a lifeline for foreign-trained doctors serving rural and underserved communities. But the exemption does not guarantee approvals, and a freeze remains in place for tens of thousands of other immigrants, including researchers, entrepreneurs, and citizens of 39 high-risk countries such as Iran and Afghanistan.

Péter Magyar sworn in as Hungary's prime minister, ending Orbán's 16-year rule

2026-05-10

Péter Magyar was sworn in as Hungary's prime minister on Saturday, ending 16 years of Viktor Orbán's nationalist-populist rule, the Associated Press reported. Magyar's center-right Tisza party won a two-thirds parliamentary majority in April elections, giving him a mandate to restore democratic institutions, repair relations with the European Union, and pursue anti-corruption measures.

Google settles $50 million class-action lawsuit over alleged racial discrimination

2026-05-10

Google has agreed to pay $50 million to resolve a class-action lawsuit brought by Black employees who alleged the company engaged in a pattern of systemic discrimination in hiring, pay, and advancement. The settlement, announced in May 2025, received final court approval this week and includes commitments for pay equity analyses, pay transparency, and limits on mandatory arbitration, according to the plaintiffs’ attorneys.

GM pays record $12.75M penalty for selling driver data without consent

2026-05-10

General Motors will pay $12.75 million in civil penalties and stop selling driver data to consumer reporting agencies for five years under a settlement announced Friday, the largest ever for violations of the California Consumer Privacy Act. The agreement with California Attorney General Rob Bonta and county district attorneys resolves an investigation into GM’s sale of location, driving behavior, and contact information from hundreds of thousands of OnStar subscribers to data brokers LexisNexis Risk Solutions and Verisk Analytics, allegedly without the drivers’ knowledge or consent.

Black Hills drilling project canceled after tribal backlash

2026-05-10

A South Dakota mining company canceled a graphite drilling project in the Black Hills after Native American tribes and advocacy groups opposed the project because of its proximity to a sacred site, the Associated Press reported. The cancellation came amid two federal lawsuits and a temporary restraining order that had halted the work.

ABC accuses Trump FCC of attempting to chill free speech in dispute over 'The View'

2026-05-10

ABC has filed a strongly worded legal brief accusing the Trump administration's Federal Communications Commission of attempting to chill constitutionally protected free speech by revisiting whether the network's long-running talk show "The View" should be subject to equal time rules. The filing, made public Friday on behalf of the network and its Houston station KTRK-TV, escalates a broader legal battle between major U.S. media outlets and the White House over press freedom and the administration's posture toward outlets whose journalism runs counter to the president's agenda.

Trump nominates David Cummins to head the beleaguered TSA

2026-05-10

President Donald Trump on Monday nominated David Cummins to lead the Transportation Security Administration after the agency’s bruising experience during the longest partial government shutdown in history. The TSA has been overseen by acting administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill since the shutdown ended late last month, as travelers reported long security lines and delays during the funding lapse.

Trump’s “American flag blue” repaint of the Reflecting Pool faces lawsuit

2026-05-10

A Washington-based nonprofit filed a lawsuit seeking to stop the Trump administration from repainting the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool a blue color and to require restoration of historic elements, arguing federal preservation laws were bypassed. The suit, filed Monday against the Interior Department and the National Park Service, says the work proceeded without relevant reviews. Trump said Monday the pool would reopen “sometime next week” and called the project “highly sophisticated stuff,” while Interior’s Katie Martin said the work will make the capital “a shining beacon.”

Health influencers dominate social media. Tips to vet fitness and mental claims

2026-05-10

Health and wellness advice is widespread on social media and podcasts, and a Pew Research Center survey found many Americans rely on it for information about their health. In a review of thousands of influencer profiles, researchers found relatively few disclose professional health credentials. Experts who spoke with The Associated Press said consumers should look for verifiable training, avoid viral “shock” claims, and confirm advice with licensed clinicians before acting.

Oregon gas tax referendum heads to May 19 ballot as prices surge nationwide

2026-05-10

Oregon Democrats’ gas tax increase is headed to voters on Oregon’s May 19 primary ballot, with Republicans pushing a referendum just as the war with Iran has driven up pump prices across the United States. The measure, approved by Oregon’s Democratic-controlled Legislature and Gov. Tina Kotek last year, will ask whether to repeal the increases in the state gas tax and related transportation fees.

Newark mayoral election pits Ras Baraka against seven challengers

2026-05-10

Newark, New Jersey, holds its mayoral election Tuesday with Ras Baraka seeking a fourth term as chief executive of the state’s largest city, facing seven challengers. Polls close at 8 p.m. ET, and if no candidate wins a majority, the top two vote-getters will advance to a June 9 runoff.

GM to pay $12.75 million record penalty under California privacy law

2026-05-10

General Motors agreed to pay $12.75 million in civil penalties after California accused the company of selling driving data from hundreds of thousands of motorists to data brokers without their consent, the state announced. California’s investigation led by Attorney General Rob Bonta also cited regulators including the California Privacy Protection Agency and several county district attorneys.

6 found dead in shipping container at Union Pacific rail yard in Texas

2026-05-10

Federal agents are investigating the deaths of six people found inside a shipping container at a Union Pacific rail yard near the Mexico border in Laredo, Texas, as a potential human smuggling event. Webb County medical examiner Dr. Corinne Stern said one victim’s autopsy found hyperthermia, or heat stroke, and she believes the others also died of heat stroke, with identities being confirmed through fingerprints and federal missing-person records.

ABC says FCC is trying to chill free speech in dispute over ‘The View’

2026-05-10

ABC filed with the FCC this week saying the Trump administration’s actions could chill constitutionally protected speech tied to the daytime talk show “The View” and hinder open political debate. The network’s filing, made public Friday, argues the show has long qualified for an exemption from FCC equal-time rules for political candidates.

Advocacy group condemns Niger suspension of nine French media outlets

2026-05-10

Niger suspended nine French media outlets, prompting Reporters Without Borders to call the move fabricated and part of a coordinated strategy to repress press freedom, according to the group. The National Observatory of Communication, Niger’s media regulator, said the suspension was necessary to preserve peace, social cohesion and institutional stability.

Armed vessels linked to Libya coast guard attack migrant rescue ship

2026-05-10

Armed vessels linked to the Libyan coast guard opened fire Monday on a German rescue ship in the Mediterranean shortly after it saved about 90 migrants from an overcrowded wooden boat, an aid group said. Sea-Watch said the vessels fired live ammunition and ordered the ship to stop about 27 miles from Libya’s coast, prompting distress calls to Italian and German authorities.

Google settles lawsuit over alleged racial disparities in hiring, pay and promotions

2026-05-10

Google has reached a $50 million settlement with Black employees who alleged systemic racial disparities in hiring, pay and advancement, including claims of steering them into lower-level and lower-paid roles. The settlement was announced in May 2025 and received final approval this week, according to the terms described by civil rights attorney Ben Crump.

GOP redistricting confuses voters and burdens election officials

2026-05-10

Alabama’s primaries are a week away, but the state is preparing a do-over of congressional voting after new district lines were approved, while Louisiana suspended primaries and pressed ahead with early ballots even as districts changed. Across several Southern states, Republicans are redrawing U.S. House seats after a Supreme Court ruling that weakened the Voting Rights Act, leaving voters confused and election officials scrambling mid–primary season.

Peter Magyar sworn in as Hungary PM after Orbán’s 16-year rule

2026-05-10

Hungarian lawyer Péter Magyar took the oath of office as prime minister on Saturday, ending Viktor Orbán’s 16-year rule, after the center-right Tisza party’s sweeping election victory. In a speech to supporters outside parliament in Budapest, Magyar pledged to restore democratic checks and balances and to pursue alleged corruption. The European Union flag was raised on parliament’s facade for the first time since Orbán’s government removed it in 2014.

Tulsa attorney’s first book lays out push for reparations after 1921 massacre

2026-05-10

Civil rights lawyer Damario Solomon-Simmons said a college course first taught him about the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, a white mob attack that devastated the Greenwood district. His first book, “Redeem a Nation,” released Tuesday, argues that survivors’ descendants and other Black Americans have not received reparations and that the United States must pursue justice and compensation tied to both slavery and Tulsa.

UCLA launches free digital textbook spotlighting Asian American history

2026-05-10

The UCLA Asian American Studies Center on Saturday launched “Foundations and Futures: Asian American and Pacific Islander Multimedia Textbook,” a free online, multimedia resource for educators that aims to broaden how schools teach Asian American and Pacific Islander history and cultures. The project, overseen by the center and developed over eight years with input from more than 100 contributors, arrives as many states and teachers face heightened scrutiny of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in education.

Vatican signals openness to LGBTQ Catholics while limiting same-sex blessings

2026-05-10

The Vatican is sending new signals in the Pope Leo XIV era on how it plans to minister to LGBTQ+ Catholics, Catholic officials and advocates said, including the publication of a Vatican working-group report that includes firsthand testimony. At the same time, Leo said at a recent airborne news conference that he will not go beyond Pope Francis on same-sex blessings and that Vatican opposition remains in force against local efforts to deviate from the Holy See stance.

Israeli settlers force Palestinian family to exhume their father

2026-05-10

A Palestinian family in the northern West Bank says Israeli settlers forced them to exhume the body of a newly buried relative after Israeli forces allowed the burial. The family said it had coordinated the burial of the father with the Israeli military before armed men from a nearby settlement arrived and threatened to dig up the grave with a bulldozer.

Trump nominates David Cummins to lead TSA after shutdown rocked agency

2026-05-10

President Donald Trump has nominated government-contracting executive David Cummins to head the Transportation Security Administration, the agency announced Monday, tapping an outsider to steady an agency battered by the longest partial government shutdown in U.S. history.

Trump’s China talks next week could shape Jimmy Lai’s prison fate

2026-05-10

Pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai’s family is looking to President Donald Trump’s expected trip to Beijing to press for his release, after Lai was sentenced to 20 years under Hong Kong’s national security law. Lai’s son said the family hopes Trump can help secure his father’s freedom as Trump prepares to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping next week.

Community-built map tracks ICE activity across Tucson, Arizona

2026-05-10

Tucson migrant advocates have built a community-tracking map to document immigration-related enforcement in and around the city as federal arrests surge, drawing data from residents’ observations and local reporting. The Tucson Migra Map tracks activity by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal agencies, and classifies incidents as “confirmed” or “credible but unconfirmed.” Its creators say the project is designed to make enforcement patterns visible while raising questions about safety and transparency for people living through the raids.

Starmer fights to keep job as Labour lawmakers call for resignation after local election losses

2026-05-09

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is fighting for his political survival after punishing local election results triggered a wave of calls from within his own Labour Party for his resignation. Starmer plans a make-or-break speech Monday to revive his government, but a growing number of lawmakers are demanding a leadership transition, and one former minister threatens to trigger a contest.

Starmer faces Labour leadership pressure after local election losses

2026-05-09

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he plans to use a Monday speech to change course after devastating local election results for Labour raised calls for his resignation. The pressure intensified after figures including Catherine West said she would seek a leadership contest if she does not like what Starmer delivers.

Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi transferred to Tehran hospital

2026-05-09

Nobel Peace laureate and women’s rights activist Narges Mohammadi was transferred to a Tehran hospital more than a week after collapsing in Iran’s prison, her foundation said Sunday. The foundation said her sentence was suspended on bail, though it said she still needs “permanent, specialized care” outside prison.

Trump heads to Beijing for state visit as Iran war, trade tensions loom

2026-05-09

President Donald Trump will travel to Beijing this week for a state visit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, the White House said Sunday, a trip that comes amid heightened tensions from the Iran war and lingering trade disputes from his first term. The visit, scheduled to include a welcome ceremony, a tour of the Temple of Heaven, and a state banquet, is Trump’s first foreign trip since the outbreak of hostilities with Iran and marks a potential test of the personal bond Trump has frequently touted with Xi.

Cartel drone attacks displace up to 1,000 families in Guerrero, Mexico

2026-05-09

Between 800 and 1,000 families fled their homes in the mountains of Guerrero, Mexico, on Sunday after four days of bombardment with drone‑launched explosives and gunfire from the criminal group Los Ardillos, community representatives said. The attacks, which began on Wednesday, drove entire households—including children and the elderly—to take refuge in a nearby sports field with little more than backpacks.

Bomb explodes at Dutch PM Jetten’s party headquarters; no injuries

2026-05-09

A bomb that was pushed through a letter slot detonated at the headquarters of Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten’s centrist D66 party late Thursday, but no one was injured, police said. A 37-year-old suspect has been arrested. The attack occurred during a meeting of about 30 members of the party’s youth wing.

Rwanda critic Aimable Karasira dies in custody; rights group seeks probe

2026-05-09

A Rwandan academic and government critic, Aimable Karasira, died in custody as he was preparing to be freed from jail, prompting calls for an independent investigation. The death was reported as resulting from an overdose of his prescribed medication, but Human Rights Watch questioned the circumstances and urged scrutiny by a “body of experts.”

Cartel violence in Mexico’s Guerrero forces 800 to 1,000 families to flee

2026-05-09

More than 800 families fled their homes in rural mountainous areas of Mexico’s Guerrero state as gunmen attacked communities with handmade explosives launched from drones and other weapons, community and human rights groups said. The displacement began on Wednesday when a powerful group known as Los Ardillos began attacking communities, they said.

Bomb explodes at D66 HQ of Dutch PM Rob Jetten; no one injured

2026-05-09

A bomb exploded at the headquarters of the centrist D66 party in The Hague, targeting Prime Minister Rob Jetten’s party office but injuring no one, according to police and Jetten. Police said they arrested a 37-year-old suspect late Thursday, and Jetten said the blast occurred during a youth-wing meeting.

Texas lifts fiber-optic rule for youth camps, clearing way for summer openings after deadly flood

2026-05-09

Texas health officials agreed Thursday to waive a requirement that youth camps install fiber-optic internet connections before operating, a mandate enacted after a flash flood killed 28 people at a Hill Country camp last July. The deal with a group of 19 camps that sued over the rule allows them to use cellular or satellite-based redundant internet instead, ensuring most camps can open for the summer season.

Texas lifts fiber-optic youth camp safety rule after deadly Hill Country flood

2026-05-09

Texas health officials on Thursday agreed to lift a requirement that youth camps install “end-to-end fiber optic facilities,” clearing the way for some camps to reopen this summer while other safety conditions remain in place. The agreement follows a lawsuit filed by 19 camps challenging the fiber rule passed after the July 4 flood in the Texas Hill Country that killed 25 campers and two counselors.

Trump religious freedom panel calls for end to church-state separation, sweeping exemptions

2026-05-09

Members of a White House-created religious liberty advisory panel have proposed tearing down the constitutional separation of church and state, rewarding a baker who refused to serve a same-sex couple, and ordering the Justice Department to defend Amish parents and Catholic nuns in exemption battles, according to a report by the Associated Press. The wishlist, aired during a meeting in April, also includes printing a million bumper stickers with the message “There is no separation between church and state,” a federal hotline repeating that claim, and requiring governments to pay the legal fees of religious plaintiffs who win in court.

Starmer Under Pressure After Labour’s Electoral Disaster and Reform UK’s Surge

2026-05-09

LONDRES (AP) — Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced mounting calls from within his own party to set a date for his departure after Labour lost more than 1,100 council seats and control of the Welsh government in local and regional elections, while the anti-immigration Reform UK gained over 1,300 seats across England and broke through in Scotland and Wales.

France's Macron in Kenya for Africa summit aimed at equal partnership

2026-05-09

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Nairobi on Sunday for the Africa Forward Summit, where he and Kenyan President William Ruto aim to reset France’s relationship with the continent as a partnership of equals, moving away from decades of post-colonial dominance.

Cohutta, Ga., council reinstates police department two days after mayor dissolved it

2026-05-09

The Cohutta, Georgia, town council voted Friday to reinstate the city’s entire police department, reversing Mayor Ron Shinnick’s decision to terminate the chief and about 10 officers two days earlier. The council acted after the town attorney advised that the firings violated the town charter’s requirement for 30 days’ notice before employee removal, Vice Mayor Shane Kornberg told The Associated Press.

Chadian court sentences eight opposition leaders to eight years in prison

2026-05-09

A Chadian court in the capital N’Djamena sentenced eight opposition leaders to eight years in prison Friday on charges including insurrection, rebellion and disturbing public order, marking the latest in a series of prison terms handed down against critics of President Mahamat Idriss Deby’s government.

California launches first-in-nation free diaper program for newborns

2026-05-09

California families will receive 400 free diapers when they leave the hospital with a newborn under a first-in-the-nation program announced Friday by Gov. Gavin Newsom. The initiative, launching at about 65 to 75 hospitals that primarily serve low-income patients, aims to ease the financial strain of early parenthood in the notoriously expensive state.

Bulgaria’s parliament elects ex-president Radev as prime minister

2026-05-09

Bulgaria’s parliament voted Friday to approve former President Rumen Radev as the country’s new prime minister, tasking his Progressive Bulgaria party with ending months of political turmoil and tackling corruption. The 124-70 vote, with 36 abstentions, followed the party’s landslide victory in the April 19 election, which gave it a commanding majority.

Starmer refuses to quit after Labour routed in UK local elections

2026-05-09

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Friday he would not resign after local and regional elections in which his governing Labour Party lost more than half the council seats it defended, as the hard-right Reform UK made major gains in working-class strongholds across England and nationalist parties secured breakthroughs in Scotland and Wales.

South Africa’s top court revives Ramaphosa cash scandal, paving way for impeachment

2026-05-09

South Africa’s highest court set aside a lawmakers’ vote rejecting a report that found credible evidence of wrongdoing by President Cyril Ramaphosa linked to a long-running cash scandal, setting up possible impeachment proceedings. The court’s Friday ruling means the report must be referred to an impeachment committee for a full investigation, Chief Justice Mandisa Maya said.

Starmer bajo presión tras desastre electoral; sube Reform UK

2026-05-09

El primer ministro británico Keir Starmer enfrentó el sábado llamados a dimitir tras una oleada de elecciones locales y regionales que dejaron al Partido Laborista con pérdidas de escaños, caída de control en varias autoridades y una derrota en Gales tras 27 años. Reform UK, con un mensaje centrado en el orden establecido y la inmigración, ganó más de 1.300 escaños en Inglaterra y avanzó en Gales y Escocia.

Philippines to summon ex–national police chief in Duterte killings probe

2026-05-09

The Philippines will summon former Philippine National Police chief Ronald dela Rosa, a senator, as part of a new investigation into alleged extrajudicial killings during anti-drug crackdowns ordered by former President Rodrigo Duterte, Interior Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla Jr. said Sunday. Remulla said dela Rosa will be summoned Monday, and he described the inquiry as a first step toward accountability for what police killings became a “state policy” during Duterte’s years in office.

Macron visits Kenya ahead of Africa Forward Summit

2026-05-09

French President Emmanuel Macron began a two-day visit to Kenya on Sunday ahead of the Africa Forward Summit, an event meant to showcase France’s revised approach to the continent, with Macron and President William Ruto calling it a “partnership of equals.” The summit, held for the first time in an Anglophone country, is expected to draw attention to France’s withdrawal of troops from West Africa completed last year.

Cohutta Georgia reinstates police after mayor fired officers

2026-05-09

Cohutta, Georgia, reinstated its police department and returned jobs to the officers the mayor fired two days earlier, following a special Town Council meeting. The council reinstated the officers immediately and directed back pay, while citing a charter requirement for 30 days’ notice before suspending or removing employees. Mayor Ron Shinnick said the firings followed social media comments by officers.

Bulgaria parliament confirms Rumen Radev as prime minister after election win

2026-05-09

Bulgaria’s parliament on Friday approved Rumen Radev as prime minister, ending another round of political instability and setting up his government to pursue economic development in the European Union member country. Lawmakers voted 124-70 with 36 abstentions, as Radev told the chamber the new cabinet would face galloping prices, a budget shortfall, missing reforms, an energy crisis and intensifying conflicts abroad.

Chadian court sentences 8 opposition leaders to eight years in prison

2026-05-09

A Chadian court in the capital N’Djamena sentenced eight opposition leaders to eight years in prison on Friday for convictions that included insurrection, according to the Associated Press. The High Court also fined the group’s members 500,000 Central African francs (about $897) each, and the prosecutor had asked for 10 years for each defendant. Defense lawyer representative Adoum Moussa said the court’s decision was based on what he called “non-existent offenses.”

Comisión de libertad religiosa de Trump busca tocar el “muro” Iglesia-Estado

2026-05-09

La Comisión de Libertad Religiosa creada por el presidente Donald Trump busca, entre sus recomendaciones, ampliar el rol de la expresión religiosa en escuelas públicas, facilitar fondos públicos para organizaciones basadas en la fe y promover exenciones religiosas en áreas como trabajo, aulas y atención médica. En su más reciente reunión, en abril, miembros del panel también discutieron la frase “No existe separación entre la Iglesia y el Estado”, incluida en una grabación automatizada atribuida al presidente de la comisión.

Starmer says he will not quit after Labour suffers local election losses

2026-05-09

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer insisted Friday he will not resign after local and regional elections that left his governing Labour Party with major losses and helped Reform UK make major gains, according to results reported Friday. Starmer said he would take responsibility for the “very tough” outcome and continue meeting what he called the challenges voters raised. The elections were widely treated as an unofficial referendum on Starmer ahead of a national vote expected by 2029.

Trump gives EU until July 4 to ratify trade deal or face higher tariffs

2026-05-08

President Donald Trump said Thursday that the European Union must approve last year's bilateral trade framework by July 4 or face higher tariffs, extending an earlier deadline he had set on auto imports. The announcement followed what Trump described as a 'great call' with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, though he expressed frustration that the European Parliament had not finalized the agreement.

Trump says EU has until July 4 to approve trade deal or face higher tariffs

2026-05-08

President Donald Trump said the European Union has until July 4 to approve a trade framework reached last year, warning of higher U.S. tariffs if the European Parliament does not finalize it. The announcement followed a Thursday “great call” with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and came after Trump previously threatened higher tariffs on EU autos.

Rubio meets Pope Leo after Trump criticism strains Vatican ties

2026-05-08

Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pope Leo XIV and the Vatican secretary of state as the Vatican and the U.S. State Department sought to underscore strong bilateral ties after recent public disputes involving President Donald Trump.

Republicans worry Michigan takeover hopes are slipping amid Iran, gas

2026-05-08

Detroit Democrats won a special state Senate election by nearly 20 points, a result that Michigan Republicans said once looked within reach. The loss, coming as gas prices rise and the Iran war and tariffs weigh on the state’s auto and trade industries, is fueling doubt inside the GOP as it targets 2026 races for governor, the Legislature and the open U.S. Senate seat.

Federal court blocks Trump’s new 10% global tariffs

2026-05-08

A split federal appeals panel ruled Thursday against 10% global tariffs President Donald Trump imposed after a Supreme Court loss, saying the tariffs were “invalid” and “unauthorized by law.” The Court of International Trade in New York said Trump exceeded the tariff power Congress allowed under the governing statute after small businesses sued.

Tennessee GOP passes new House map reshaping Memphis after Voting Rights Act ruling

2026-05-08

Tennessee lawmakers approved and Republicans in the state Senate enacted a new U.S. House district map on Thursday amid protests, then sent it to Gov. Bill Lee, who signed it into law. The plan redraws Tennessee’s Memphis-centered majority-Black district to alter its boundaries after the U.S. Supreme Court last week weakened federal Voting Rights Act protections for minorities.

Federal court rules Trump's 10% global tariffs are illegal

2026-05-08

A federal court in New York ruled Thursday that the 10% global tariffs President Donald Trump imposed after a Supreme Court defeat are illegal, siding with small businesses that argued the president exceeded his trade authority.

Connecticut lawmakers pass bill removing “minority” from economic programs

2026-05-08

Connecticut lawmakers have passed a bill that removes the word “minority” from state economic development programs, replacing it with language tied to “historically underserved communities.” The change drew sharp objections from two Black Democratic senators, while legislative leaders said the bill preserves the programs’ underlying purpose.

Trump proves power to purge GOP dissenters in Indiana primary, but midterm concerns remain

2026-05-08

In Indiana’s Tuesday primary, Donald Trump-backed challengers ousted nearly all Republican state senators who defied him on redistricting, a demonstration of the president’s enduring power to enforce party loyalty even as it drains millions from the GOP’s broader effort to hold Congress. The purge emboldened Trump’s push to unseat additional dissenters in Louisiana and Kentucky, but some party strategists fear the infighting is sapping attention and cash from the fight against Democrats in November.

Judge rules Trump’s $100M humanities grant cuts unconstitutional

2026-05-08

A federal judge in New York ruled Thursday that the Trump administration’s cancellation of more than $100 million in humanities grants was unconstitutional, permanently blocking the Department of Government Efficiency from terminating the funding. U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon found the cuts violated the First Amendment’s free-speech protections and the Fifth Amendment’s equal-protection guarantee, and she sharply criticized DOGE’s use of artificial intelligence to identify grants for elimination.

Maine Sen. Susan Collins discloses longtime tremor amid reelection bid

2026-05-08

Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins of Maine disclosed Wednesday that she has a benign essential tremor, a condition she has lived with for the entirety of her nearly three-decade Senate career, as she faces a competitive reelection fight in which age and health have become issues.

Southern Republicans push redistricting that could dismantle Black-majority districts

2026-05-08

Republicans in three Southern states moved forward this week with plans to redraw congressional maps that could eliminate majority-Black districts, facing protests and Democratic accusations of vote dilution. The efforts come after a Supreme Court ruling that Louisiana relied too heavily on race when drawing a district, weakening a key provision of the Voting Rights Act and emboldening GOP-led legislatures to pursue maps favorable to their party.

Second appeals court rejects Trump's no-bond immigration detentions, deepening circuit split

2026-05-08

A federal appeals court in Atlanta has ruled against the Trump administration's policy of denying bond hearings to people in immigration proceedings, further splitting the federal circuits on whether mandatory detention is legal. The 2-1 ruling from the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals aligns with the 2nd Circuit but conflicts with decisions from the 5th and 8th Circuits, increasing the likelihood that the U.S. Supreme Court will take up the issue.

US not planning imminent military action in Cuba despite Trump threats, officials say

2026-05-08

WASHINGTON — The United States is not planning imminent military action against Cuba, U.S. officials said Wednesday, despite President Donald Trump’s repeated suggestions that American warships returning from the Middle East could stop off the island. The officials, who described the state of preliminary diplomatic discussions on condition of anonymity, said the Trump administration’s immediate focus is on pressuring Havana to accept humanitarian aid and open its economy — not regime change.

Maine Sen. Susan Collins says she has a tremor, seeks reelection

2026-05-08

Republican Sen. Susan Collins disclosed Thursday that she has a benign essential tremor, saying it has been part of her decades-long Senate career and that it does not interfere with her work. Collins said she first confirmed the tremor to a Maine television station on Wednesday after online scrutiny of her health in recent videos.

Second appeals court rejects Trump’s no-bond immigration detentions

2026-05-08

An Atlanta-based appeals court rejected a Trump administration policy of keeping people in immigration proceedings detained without bond, a ruling that deepens a split among federal courts. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said on Wednesday that the law does not give the executive branch “unfettered authority” to detain people without bond while their cases are pending.

Southern Republicans press ahead with election-year redistricting

2026-05-08

Republicans in several Southern states advanced election-year redistricting Wednesday, undeterred by protests and objections to plans they say could reshape majority-Black House districts after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last week. The moves come as the midterm elections draw closer and Democrats warned the changes could dilute Black voting power.

US says it is not planning imminent military action against Cuba

2026-05-08

The United States is not seeking imminent military action against Cuba despite President Donald Trump’s threats, U.S. officials told The Associated Press. The officials also said they are not optimistic Havana will accept an offer that includes humanitarian aid and expanded connectivity, though they said Cuba has not rejected it outright.

Trump-appointed FEMA council proposes shifting disaster costs to states

2026-05-08

A Trump-appointed FEMA Review Council on Thursday recommended a sweeping overhaul of federal disaster aid that would shift more responsibility to states, change how disasters qualify for assistance, and limit the type of aid survivors can receive, while stopping short of the president’s threat to abolish the agency.

Trump-appointed FEMA review council backs sweeping disaster-aid changes

2026-05-08

The Trump-appointed FEMA Review Council on Thursday approved a report outlining changes to how the federal government funds disaster preparedness, response and recovery, according to a public meeting held with thousands of virtual attendees. The council’s recommendations would shift more responsibility to states, tribes and territories and alter how FEMA determines which disasters receive federal support and how survivors receive assistance, though many proposals stop short of what the administration has promised. The council’s final recommendations will now be sent to President Donald Trump, and many reforms would require congressional action.

Trump administration reviews Mexico consulates; some could close

2026-05-08

The Trump administration is reviewing Mexico’s 53 consulates in the United States, a move that could lead to some closures, a State Department official said May 8. The official said the State Department is constantly reviewing aspects of American foreign relations but did not provide a reason or details of the review, which CBS News previously reported.

Judge says Trump administration illegally canceled over $100M humanities grants

2026-05-08

A federal judge in Manhattan ruled Thursday that the Trump administration’s cancellation of more than $100 million in humanities grants was unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon permanently barred the administration from terminating the grants and said the Department of Government Efficiency lacked lawful authority to end funding.

US to revoke passports for parents with large unpaid child support debts

2026-05-08

The U.S. State Department said Thursday it will begin revoking the passports of thousands of parents with significant unpaid child support debts, starting Friday. The initial action targets roughly 2,700 passport holders who owe $100,000 or more, with plans to expand the program to all parents owing more than $2,500. The program, based on a long-standing but little-enforced 1996 law, is part of an effort to compel delinquent parents to pay what they owe, officials said.

Indiana primary shows how Trump can punish Republicans who defy him

2026-05-08

Republicans in Indiana’s Tuesday primary tested how far President Donald Trump will go to punish party members who oppose his redistricting plans, with several of his endorsed challengers winning. The outcome underscored the leverage Trump and his allies have used in intraparty contests as the party heads toward November midterms.

Clean energy group says Pentagon is stalling new onshore wind projects

2026-05-08

The American Clean Power industry association said the Pentagon has stopped completing national security reviews that would let more than 250 new onshore wind farms move forward on private land. The Pentagon said its siting “clearinghouse” is evaluating land-based wind projects so they do not impair national security or military operations.

USPS proposes rule allowing handgun shipments through the mail

2026-05-08

The United States Postal Service is considering a rule change that would allow individuals to mail handguns for the first time in nearly a century, a shift the Justice Department argues is required by the Second Amendment but that Democratic attorneys general in two dozen states say will undermine public safety and bypass state firearm regulations.

CNN founder Ted Turner, pioneer of 24-hour cable news, dies at 87

2026-05-08

Ted Turner, the brash media mogul who transformed global journalism by launching CNN and pioneering the 24-hour cable news cycle, died Wednesday at age 87. Turner was surrounded by his family at the time of his death, according to Turner Enterprises.

Overcrowded Idaho prisons send women with good behavior to ‘the hole’

2026-05-08

Idaho’s women’s prisons, overflowing and without enough beds, are placing nonviolent inmates into segregated housing normally used for punishment, confining them to their cells for 23 hours a day, according to an InvestigateWest investigation distributed by The Associated Press. Civil rights advocates say the practice violates state policy and inflicts lasting psychological harm.

Trump FDA announces policy via press conferences and journals, skips federal rulemaking

2026-05-08

The Food and Drug Administration, under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Commissioner Marty Makary, has shifted from the established, legally required process of federal rulemaking to announcing major policy changes through press conferences, medical journal articles, and television interviews, an Associated Press review of the agency’s actions has found.

Fan-run Warsaw soccer club AKS Zły challenges Poland’s nationalist stadium culture

2026-05-08

A democratic fan-owned soccer club in Warsaw, founded in 2015 by supporters who wanted a refuge from the aggressive nationalist behavior they saw in Polish stadiums, is expanding its inclusive mission even as President Karol Nawrocki — a soccer fan who has acknowledged participating in street fights — represents a very different face of Polish fandom.

Investigation Finds Georgia Officials Knew PFAS from Carpet Mills Contaminated Drinking Water

2026-05-08

A multi-year investigation by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Associated Press and FRONTLINE (PBS) reveals that Georgia environmental regulators knew for nearly two decades that PFAS chemicals from carpet mills were polluting drinking water in northwest Georgia and Alabama, yet took no action to warn the public or clean up the contamination. The state’s inaction left hundreds of thousands of residents exposed to the toxic “forever chemicals,” linked to cancer and other illnesses, while other states moved aggressively to protect their citizens.

Georgia officials knew carpet mills fouled water with PFAS for years but failed to act, investigation finds

2026-05-08

Georgia’s environmental regulators knew for nearly two decades that the carpet industry in the state's northwest corner was discharging dangerous forever chemicals into rivers that provide drinking water for hundreds of thousands of people, but the state declined to regulate the pollution, warn the public, or cooperate with downstream Alabama officials who asked for help identifying the source, an investigative collaboration has found.

NY budget deal includes pied-à-terre tax, stops short of income tax hikes on rich

2026-05-08

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a tentative budget agreement Thursday that would impose a new recurring tax on luxury second homes in New York City — but the deal does not include the broad income‑tax increases on the wealthy that Mayor Zohran Mamdani and progressive activists have demanded. The proposed pied‑à‑terre tax would apply to homes valued at more than $5 million and is projected to raise at least $500 million a year for the city, Hochul said.

Ukraine recovers $82 million cash and gold seized by Hungary

2026-05-08

Hungary has returned a shipment of cash and gold worth roughly $82 million to Ukraine’s state Oschadbank, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Wednesday, ending a two-month seizure that Kyiv had condemned as politically motivated.

Former Ohio deputy convicted of reckless homicide in Casey Goodson Jr. shooting

2026-05-08

A former Franklin County sheriff's deputy was found guilty of reckless homicide Thursday for the December 2020 killing of Casey Goodson Jr., a 23-year-old Black man who was shot six times while entering his grandmother's home with a bag of sandwiches. Jurors could not agree on the more serious charge of murder, resulting in a mistrial on that count, marking the second time Jason Meade, who is white, has faced a jury in the case.

On Declaration's 250th, Teachers Press Hard Questions Amid Political Pressure

2026-05-08

With the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence approaching, U.S. history teachers are guiding students through a deeper examination of the nation's founding ideals—who they were written for, who was excluded, and whether the American experiment is still delivering on its promise of equality—while facing a politically charged environment that has made teaching civics harder than ever, according to a new survey.

DeSantis says Alligator Alcatraz temporary; DHS denies closure push

2026-05-08

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Thursday that the state’s “Alligator Alcatraz” immigration detention center in the Everglades was always intended to be temporary, a statement that came the same day a report surfaced that state and federal officials had begun early talks about shutting the facility down. The Department of Homeland Security denied it was urging closure, calling Florida a valuable partner, while the governor said the site had processed and deported 22,000 detainees since opening last summer.

Pope Leo XIV prays for end to fratricidal hatred on Pompeii anniversary

2026-05-08

Pope Leo XIV prayed Friday for political leaders to end the “fratricidal hatred” in the world as he marked the anniversary of his election with a visit to Pompeii, Italy. The pope traveled to the ancient city for a daylong visit to honor the May 8 feast of Our Lady of Pompeii and used the occasion to pray for peace.

New York to restrict ICE ties after threat from Trump border czar

2026-05-08

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said she will back bills that would limit how state and local authorities coordinate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, even after Trump’s border czar warned New York could face more immigration agents. Hochul said she “don’t take well to threats” and plans to include the proposals in the state budget, while a Republican candidate for governor called the approach a success elsewhere.

Ukraine recovers $82M cash and gold Hungary seized earlier in 2026

2026-05-08

Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Wednesday that Hungary has returned a shipment of Ukrainian cash and gold worth around $82 million, which Hungary seized in March. The valuables were sent back to Ukraine’s state Oschadbank after Hungarian authorities held Ukrainian bank employees for more than 24 hours.

EPA to propose rolling back some Biden-era PFAS limits in drinking water

2026-05-08

The Trump administration plans to propose softening some Biden-era limits on PFAS “forever chemicals” in drinking water, according to an EPA official. The proposal would delay parts of the rollback but keep strict standards for two common PFAS types, while rescinding limits on some rarer forms and revisiting others, the official said.

El Faro says Bukele froze outlet assets in what it calls persecution

2026-05-08

El Salvador’s investigative outlet El Faro said on Thursday that authorities froze two of its members’ assets, including a bank account and property, in what it called a politically motivated escalation of pressure on its reporting about President Nayib Bukele. El Faro director Carlos Dada said the move came without formal notice, and that the outlet learned of the freeze through public registry records.

DeSantis says “Alligator Alcatraz” detention center always meant to be temporary

2026-05-08

Ron DeSantis said Thursday that Florida’s immigration detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz” always was meant to be temporary, adding the facility would wind down if the federal government could house detainees elsewhere. His remarks came as The New York Times reported state and federal officials were in early talks about shutting the Everglades facility down.

$3.8B Homekey program shows mixed results, delayed projects and disputes

2026-05-08

California’s Homekey program, launched under Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2020, awarded more than $3.8 billion to convert hotels and other buildings into homeless housing, but a new investigation finds outcomes ranged from immediate successes to long delays and failures. In Los Angeles, one nonprofit said it took over a former motel without sufficient vetting, and a yearslong construction backlog left the property vacant. Across the state, advocates and local officials said the program’s speed came with thinner oversight, leaving some projects stalled and raising questions about the next phase, Homekey+.

CNN founder Ted Turner dies at 87

2026-05-08

Ted Turner, the television pioneer who launched CNN and helped usher in the 24-hour cable news cycle, has died. He was 87. Turner died Wednesday while surrounded by his family, according to Turner Enterprises, which oversees his businesses and investments; a cause was not released.

Former deputy found guilty of reckless homicide in Casey Goodson Jr. shooting

2026-05-08

A former Franklin County sheriff’s deputy was found guilty of reckless homicide in the 2020 killing of Casey Goodson Jr., a Black man who entered his grandmother’s home in Columbus with sandwiches. Jurors in the second trial said they could not reach a unanimous verdict on the more serious murder count, and a judge declared a mistrial on that charge.

Greece proposes constitutional safeguards on artificial intelligence

2026-05-08

Greece is preparing major constitutional changes, including an amendment requiring that artificial intelligence serve human society, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Thursday. Mitsotakis outlined the proposed revisions as lawmakers began work on a lengthy process involving votes by two successive parliaments, which typically requires cross-party support.

Investigation finds Georgia knew carpet mill chemicals were polluting water

2026-05-08

Georgia officials and scientists identified PFAS contamination in drinking-water supplies in northwest Georgia more than a decade before the state began taking new public action, an Associated Press investigation finds. Residents in the Calhoun area describe blood-test results showing PFAS buildup and health diagnoses including liver and thyroid conditions. The report also says Georgia did not issue fish advisories or do-not-drink orders as concerns grew, even as PFAS migrated toward Alabama.

Kenyan politicians trade accusations of “goonism” as political violence rises

2026-05-08

Kenya’s political class is trading accusations of “goonism,” a term used by leaders to describe gangs that intimidate opponents, as Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen and other officials warn about political violence ahead of elections. Supporters and opposition figures also dispute whether the violence is driven by the state or by rivals, while religious leaders amplify concerns and weigh in with public rebukes and sermons.

New York expected to impose pied-à-terre tax but no rich income hike

2026-05-08

New York is expected to impose a new tax on multimillion-dollar second homes in New York City, under a tentative agreement announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul. The proposal would target so-called pied-à-terres worth more than $5 million and is intended to help address New York City’s budget deficit, but it stops short of broad income tax increases on the state’s wealthiest residents.

N.J. cuts World Cup train fare to $105, easing earlier $150 plan

2026-05-08

New Jersey Transit is reducing a planned $150 round-trip train fare to MetLife Stadium for World Cup matches to $105, state officials said May 7. The move follows outcry over the steep cost of getting to East Rutherford for the tournament, which begins June 13 and runs through July 19.

People could soon ship handguns through U.S. postal service

2026-05-08

Handguns could be mailed through the U.S. Postal Service for the first time in nearly 100 years if a proposed rule change takes effect, according to the U.S. Postal Service and the Justice Department. Democratic state attorneys general in about two dozen states sent a letter opposing the change, saying it could undermine state gun-safety laws and make it harder to investigate gun crimes. The proposal would expand mailing to concealable firearms such as pistols and revolvers, while the Postal Service said it is reviewing public comments before making final changes.

Trump plan to paint Eisenhower building could cost at least $7.5M

2026-05-08

President Donald Trump’s proposal to repaint the Eisenhower Executive Office Building near the White House white could cost at least $7.5 million, a White House official said as federal review bodies began considering the plan. Ryan Erb, who oversees construction operations and facilities for the White House Office of Administration, told the National Capital Planning Commission the estimate is preliminary and that the White House is testing paint on granite samples from a Maine quarry.

Trump tours Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool paint job he calls “American flag blue”

2026-05-08

President Donald Trump on Thursday took reporters on an unannounced trip to the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool to inspect a new blue coating he says will replace gray stone at the site. The Republican president arrived after the pool was coated in what he called “American flag blue,” and he spoke with members of his Cabinet as reporters awaited his departure before sunset.

US to start revoking passports for parents who owe child support

2026-05-08

The U.S. State Department will begin revoking the passports of thousands of parents with significant past-due child support, beginning Friday, the department told The Associated Press. The initial revocations will focus on parents who owe $100,000 or more, which would apply to about 2,700 passport holders.

Warsaw soccer club AKS Zły challenges nationalist stadium culture

2026-05-08

A fan-run Warsaw soccer club, AKS Zły, is seeking a renewed role in Poland as President Karol Nawrocki’s nationalist-backed government-era political climate collides with the inclusive culture the club was built to protect. Founded in 2015 by supporters of Warsaw’s Legia and Polonia, AKS Zły says it was created to resist hostile nationalist stadium behavior that members say has “drifted sharply to the right.” As the club hopes to attract more fans, players and supporters describe matchdays built around welcome, community organizing and LGBTQ+ inclusion.

FDA announces plan to phase out synthetic dyes, but rulemaking has stalled

2026-05-08

In one of his first major announcements as health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. unveiled a plan with the Food and Drug Administration to “phase out” synthetic food dyes. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary said the agency was “removing all petroleum-based food dyes” from U.S. foods, but the details later turned on a voluntary agreement with foodmakers rather than new regulations. More than a year later, the FDA has not issued the scientific and regulatory documents needed to establish the basis for any formal safety action, according to an FDA expert and former FDA food program director.

FBI searches Virginia Senate leader L. Louise Lucas’ office in corruption probe

2026-05-07

The FBI searched the hometown office of Virginia state Senate leader L. Louise Lucas and a nearby cannabis shop on Wednesday as part of a corruption investigation, AP reported. The FBI declined to comment beyond confirming the search was court-authorized in Portsmouth, Virginia, where Lucas also maintains her political office and a disabilities services business. Democrats including House Speaker Don Scott said they want more facts before drawing conclusions.

Lutnick defends Epstein ties in closed House interview, GOP praises

2026-05-07

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick appeared Wednesday before the House Oversight Committee investigating sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, describing his contacts after Epstein’s 2008 conviction and telling lawmakers he “has done nothing wrong.” GOP Chairman James Comer said Lutnick was “forthcoming,” while Democrats accused him of lying and evading their questions in the closed-door interview.

Activist ends 5-day protest atop DC bridge against AI, Iran war

2026-05-07

A protester who camped for five days atop the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge in Washington came down Wednesday morning, ending his stand against the use of artificial intelligence and the war in Iran. Guido Reichstadter, a Florida-based activist, was seen coming down from an arch after Washington police negotiated with him.

Chief Justice John Roberts says Supreme Court is not a political body

2026-05-07

Chief Justice John Roberts told a gathering of judges and lawyers from the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Hershey, Pennsylvania, that the United States Supreme Court does not function as a political institution. He said the Court’s decisions, even when unpopular, are grounded in the Constitution rather than partisan policy goals. Roberts made the remarks as public confidence in the high court remains low following a recent decision that weakened a key provision of the Voting Rights Act.

Many Americans say Trump’s immigration crackdown makes U.S. unwelcoming: poll

2026-05-07

Most U.S. adults say the United States is no longer a great place for immigrants, according to a new AP-NORC poll, with about one-third saying they or someone they know has been affected by the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement. The survey also finds strong support for birthright citizenship in general, but Republicans are more divided and many respondents distinguish among specific cases.

Justice Dept. can keep seized Fulton County 2020 ballots, judge rules

2026-05-07

ATLANTA — A federal judge ruled Wednesday that the U.S. Justice Department does not have to return 2020 election ballots seized by the FBI from a warehouse near Atlanta in Fulton County, Georgia. In a decision after Fulton County sought to undo the Jan. 28 seizure, U.S. District Judge J.P. Boulee found the county did not show its constitutional rights were “callously disregarded,” and noted the government had provided the county copies of the documents. The Justice Department said the investigation would continue.

Trump signs new counterterrorism strategy prioritizing Western Hemisphere cartels

2026-05-07

President Donald Trump signed off on a new U.S. counterterrorism strategy that makes eliminating drug cartels in the Western Hemisphere the administration’s highest priority, the White House announced Wednesday. The 16-page document also lays out additional priorities that include targeting Islamic military groups, violent anti-American secular political groups, and preventing nonstate actors from acquiring weapons of mass destruction.

Tech-backed Matt Mahan seeks California governor seat with AI, housing agenda

2026-05-07

Matt Mahan, San Jose’s mayor and a former tech executive, is trying to win the June 2 California governor’s primary as tech investors and allied groups pump money into his campaign while critics question his ties to the industry. In a Tuesday CNN debate, Mahan contrasted himself with rivals backed by Republicans and attacked “career politicians,” while labor leaders and progressives questioned whether he will regulate big technology.

California governor candidates spar on taxes, Trump and healthcare in debate

2026-05-07

The leading candidates for California governor clashed Tuesday in a CNN debate on taxes, President Donald Trump and state-funded healthcare for immigrants without legal status, as mail voting was already underway ahead of the June 2 primary. The race to succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom features Democrats Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, Tom Steyer, Matt Mahan and Antonio Villaraigosa alongside Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco.

Justice Department targets slow immigration judges to clear immigration backlog

2026-05-07

The Justice Department is aiming to replace immigration judges it says are ruling too slowly or not following immigration law, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said Wednesday in Phoenix. The move is part of the Trump administration’s effort to cut a backlog of 3.7 million pending immigration cases, as it pursues faster deportations.

Tennessee Rep. Ogles will get phone back from Justice Department

2026-05-07

The Justice Department agreed to return Rep. Andy Ogles’ personal cellphone seized during an investigation into his campaign finances, according to a court filing revealed by his lawyers. The FBI confiscated the phone in August 2024 and the case has been tied up in court over whether investigators could review the device and Ogles’ email accounts.

Ted Turner changed the nature of news — and of those who consume it

2026-05-07

In the wake of Ted Turner’s death on Wednesday, media analysts and former colleagues recalled how his push for a global, continuous news channel helped reshape television and the public’s expectations for breaking coverage. From CNN’s early 24/7 model to its wartime reporting, Turner’s influence echoed across American politics, journalism and civic engagement, they said.

Corpus Christi to begin talks on privately built desalination plant

2026-05-07

Corpus Christi City Council voted to begin preliminary talks with a private company, AXE H2O, about building a desalination plant for the Coastal Bend as drought pressures mount. Seven months after the city axed its own desalination effort and with a water shortage projected within months, council members also advanced a separate groundwater proposal.

ADL: US antisemitic incidents drop in 2025, driven by fall on campuses

2026-05-07

The Anti-Defamation League said the number of antisemitic incidents it tallied in the United States declined sharply in 2025, with campus incidents driving much of the drop. ADL’s latest annual audit, released Wednesday, counted 6,274 incidents of antisemitic assaults, harassment and vandalism overall, down 33% from 2024. ADL attributed part of the decline to colleges curbing pro-Palestinian protests amid pressure from President Donald Trump’s administration.

IRS says some COVID-era tax penalty filers may claim refunds by July 10

2026-05-07

Tens of millions of taxpayers penalized by the IRS during the coronavirus pandemic for filing late or failing to pay may qualify for penalty refunds or abatements, the national taxpayer advocate said Tuesday. Relief is not automatic, and most taxpayers need to file a claim by July 10, after a federal court ruled late last year that COVID-19 emergency laws extended certain filing deadlines.

Orleans Parish School Board settles 2019 lawsuit over city tax-fee skimming

2026-05-07

The Orleans Parish School Board voted 6-1 to accept an agreement settling a 2019 lawsuit against the city of New Orleans over how tax collection fees and school funding were handled. Under the settlement, the city will lower sales tax collection fees and eliminate property-tax fees, and it will end practices district lawyers said diverted school money toward municipal pension obligations.

UCLA medical school used race in admissions, Justice Dept. finds

2026-05-07

The U.S. Justice Department has found that the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, illegally considered race in admissions, according to a letter of findings. The finding escalates a dispute between the Trump administration and UCLA as the administration presses colleges’ compliance with a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that banned affirmative action in higher education admissions.

FBI searches Virginia Senate leader L. Louise Lucas’ office in corruption probe

2026-05-06

The FBI searched the office of Virginia Senate leader L. Louise Lucas and a nearby cannabis shop in Portsmouth, Virginia, as part of a corruption investigation, AP reported. The FBI said it was conducting a court-authorized search, while Lucas said the actions reflect a pattern of intimidation against lawmakers who challenge the administration.

Commerce Secretary Lutnick testifies to House committee on Epstein ties

2026-05-06

Howard Lutnick, President Donald Trump’s commerce secretary, faced closed-door questioning Wednesday by the House Oversight Committee about his contact with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein after Epstein’s 2008 conviction involving a minor. The committee chairman said Lutnick was “forthcoming,” while Democrats accused him of lying and evading questions. The interview was not recorded on video, a decision Democrats criticized as limiting scrutiny.

Ohio primaries set up Brown-Husted Senate fight and Acton-Ramaswamy race

2026-05-06

Ohio’s primary on Tuesday set up two marquee statewide contests for November: a U.S. Senate race likely to help determine control of the chamber and a governor’s race Democrats view as their best chance of victory in two decades. Democrats nominated former Sen. Sherrod Brown to challenge Republican Sen. Jon Husted, while Vivek Ramaswamy won the Republican bid for governor to face Dr. Amy Acton, the unopposed Democratic nominee.

California governor candidates clash in debate as mail voting gets underway

2026-05-06

Seven candidates for California governor met in a two-hour televised debate Tuesday, trading sharp attacks over gas prices, tax policy, and the role of President Donald Trump as mail voting is already underway for the June 2 primary. Democrats largely focused on Trump as the state’s greatest threat, while the two Republicans on stage argued Democrats’ policies have made California unaffordable.

Orleans Parish School Board votes to settle 2019 lawsuit with city

2026-05-06

The Orleans Parish School Board voted 6-1 to accept an agreement with the city of New Orleans resolving a 2019 lawsuit that challenged how the city handled taxes and other money tied to the district. Under the settlement, the city will lower sales-tax collection fees and eliminate them for property taxes, and it will stop skimming school-board funds to cover pension obligations, district officials said.

D.C. police put 13 officers on administrative leave in crime data probe

2026-05-06

Washington, D.C., interim Police Chief Jeffery Carroll announced Tuesday that 13 officers have been placed on administrative leave in connection with an internal investigation into the department’s crime statistics reporting. The investigation, launched earlier this year after a referral from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, follows congressional and Justice Department probes that found the department’s former leadership had pressured commanders to misclassify crimes in order to artificially lower the city’s crime rates.

Trump-backed candidates win most Indiana primaries; Democrats secure Michigan Senate seat

2026-05-06

President Donald Trump’s effort to purge Indiana state senators who opposed his redistricting plan mostly succeeded Tuesday, with five of his backed challengers winning primary races and sending a warning to Republicans ahead of the midterms. Meanwhile, Democrats continued a string of special election victories with a win in a bellwether Michigan district, and primaries in Ohio set up closely watched contests for governor and U.S. Senate.

Greene wins Michigan special Senate election, preserving Democratic control

2026-05-06

Democrat Chedrick Greene won a special election in Michigan's 35th Senate District on Tuesday, securing his party's hold on the state Senate, according to results reported by the Associated Press. Greene, a firefighter and Marine veteran, defeated Republican Jason Tunney, a former prosecutor, keeping the chamber's 19-18 Democratic majority intact through the end of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's term.

Venice Biennale jury resigns over Israel and Russia, leaving no prizes

2026-05-06

The Venice Biennale’s 61st edition opened previews on May 5 without a jury and without professional prizes, after the jury resigned rather than evaluate artists from Israel and Russia at the world’s oldest contemporary art exhibition. The unprecedented walkout plunged the Giardini into tension, with Ukrainian artists displaying a refugee sculpture from the eastern front as Russian performers danced nearby and Palestinian demonstrators marched with the names of killed Gaza artists.

Trump-backed candidates win majority of Republican primary races for Indiana Senate

2026-05-06

President Donald Trump’s endorsed candidates won at least five of seven contested Republican primary races for the Indiana State Senate on Tuesday, according to results reported by the Associated Press, delivering a striking political victory five months after lawmakers rebuffed his push to redraw the state’s congressional map.

Justice Department finds UCLA med school illegally considered race in admissions

2026-05-06

The U.S. Justice Department said it found the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, illegally considered race in admissions. The department’s finding comes as the Trump administration seeks to scrutinize colleges’ student-selection processes after a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that ended affirmative action in admissions.

Trump signs counterterrorism strategy prioritizing Western Hemisphere drug cartels

2026-05-06

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump signed a new U.S. counterterrorism strategy that the White House says makes eliminating drug cartels in the Western Hemisphere the administration’s top priority. The strategy, a 16-page document, also lists Islamic military groups, violent secular political groups, and efforts to keep nonstate actors from obtaining weapons of mass destruction, according to the White House.

Justice Department can keep seized Fulton County 2020 ballots, judge rules

2026-05-06

A federal judge ruled Wednesday that the U.S. Department of Justice does not have to return 2020 election ballots seized by the FBI from a warehouse near Atlanta that held records for Fulton County, Georgia. The county had argued the seizure was improper and violated the Constitution, but the judge said it did not show the government’s rights were “callously disregarded” and noted the Justice Department has already provided copies of the documents.

AP-NORC poll finds many Americans changed routines as Trump ramps immigration enforcement

2026-05-06

Most U.S. adults say the United States is no longer a great place for immigrants, a new AP-NORC poll finds, as about one-third report knowing someone affected by the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement. The survey also shows broad public support for birthright citizenship, while opinions vary sharply by parents’ immigration status.

Activist comes down from atop Washington bridge, ending 5-day protest

2026-05-06

A Florida activist who camped atop a Washington bridge for five days came down Wednesday morning, ending his stand against artificial intelligence and the war in Iran, Associated Press reported. Police had closed lanes and negotiated with him on the Frederick Douglass Memorial Bridge.

ADL: US antisemitic incidents drop in 2025, driven by big fall on campuses

2026-05-06

The Anti-Defamation League said Thursday that antisemitic incidents it tallied in the United States declined sharply in 2025, with a steep drop on college campuses a key driver. The ADL said its latest annual audit counted 6,274 incidents of antisemitic assaults, harassment and vandalism overall in 2025, down 33% from 2024’s record-high 9,354.

Roberts says Supreme Court is not political as public trust slips

2026-05-06

Chief Justice John Roberts said the Supreme Court is not made up of “political actors,” urging criticism of the court to focus on rulings rather than personal attacks. He spoke Wednesday to a conference of judges and lawyers from the 3rd U.S. Circuit in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Trump renews criticism of Pope Leo, threatening Rubio’s Vatican diplomacy

2026-05-06

President Donald Trump renewed his criticism of Pope Leo XIV in an interview with Hugh Hewitt, a flare-up that could complicate Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s planned visit to the Vatican this week. Trump said the pope is helping Iran and also made the world less safe with remarks he linked to the pope’s comments about immigrants.

Trump-backed wins in Indiana, but Democrats gain momentum in Ohio and Michigan

2026-05-06

Republicans secured most of the marquee primary outcomes Tuesday in Indiana, reinforcing President Donald Trump's grip on his party, while Democrats advanced in Ohio and won a Michigan special election that kept their state Senate majority. The results add to a growing pattern ahead of November's midterm elections: Trump still leads the GOP, but Democrats are finding momentum in special races and nomination fights.

Palestine Action activists convicted in UK break-in at Elbit factory

2026-05-06

London’s Woolwich Crown Court convicted four Palestine Action activists on May 5 for breaking into an Israeli defense factory in the United Kingdom and damaging equipment. Prosecutors said the Aug. 6, 2024 raid at Elbit Systems in Bristol was organized to cause maximum damage and gather information about the company.

Greene wins Michigan special election, keeping Democrats Senate majority

2026-05-06

Democrat Chedrick Greene won Michigan’s special election for the 35th state Senate district on Tuesday, defeating Republican Jason Tunney and securing his party’s control of the chamber through the remainder of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s term. The race was closely watched as a potential indicator of voter sentiment ahead of November midterms.

Ahead of Trump-Xi summit, Rubio urges China to help open Strait of Hormuz

2026-05-06

In Washington, Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Chinese officials to use their influence with Iran to stop closing the Strait of Hormuz, as President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping prepare for a summit in Beijing. Speaking during a White House briefing Tuesday, Rubio said Iran is “the bad guy” in the standoff that has effectively shuttered the waterway for weeks. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, during the visit, according to Xinhua.

GOP bill adds $1B for White House security tied to Trump ballroom

2026-05-06

Senate Republicans have added $1 billion for White House security upgrades to legislation that would otherwise fund immigration enforcement agencies, a move aimed at President Donald Trump’s White House ballroom project. The money is slated for the U.S. Secret Service for “security adjustments and upgrades” tied to the ballroom after a man was charged with trying to assassinate Trump at last week’s White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

White House says Trump drug deals could cut $529B in 10 years

2026-05-06

President Donald Trump’s deals with pharmaceutical companies to lower some U.S. prescription drug prices to levels charged in other countries could save $529 billion over the next 10 years, according to White House economists. The White House also estimated federal and state governments could save a combined $64.3 billion over the decade on Medicaid. Democrats have questioned the projections and urged the administration to disclose more details about the agreements.

Trump administration sues Denver over assault weapons ban

2026-05-06

The Trump administration sued Denver and the city’s police department on Tuesday, seeking to strike down an assault-weapons ban that has been in place in Colorado’s largest city since 1989. The lawsuit follows Denver officials’ public rejection of a U.S. Department of Justice request to repeal the ordinance.

Trump drug-pricing deals could save US $529B over a decade, White House says

2026-05-06

The White House estimates that President Donald Trump’s deals with pharmaceutical companies to tie U.S. prescription drug prices to those paid in other countries could save the economy $529 billion over the next 10 years, according to an analysis obtained by The Associated Press. The projection is the first economy-wide estimate behind a policy that forms a core part of Trump’s pitch to voters heading into November’s midterm elections, as cost-of-living anxiety deepened by the Iran war weighs on the electorate.

US revokes visas of Costa Rican newspaper La Nación's board members

2026-05-06

The United States revoked the visas of several board members of the Costa Rican newspaper La Nación, the outlet reported Sunday, in a move press freedom groups and opposition figures called political retaliation. The State Department provided no explanation for the revocations, which the newspaper's board said it learned about from pro-government media reports rather than official notification.

White House estimates Trump drug deals would cut $529B in 10 years

2026-05-06

The White House says President Donald Trump’s pharmaceutical deals that would link some U.S. prescription drug prices to what other countries pay could save $529 billion over 10 years. The analysis, produced for the White House Council of Economic Advisers, projects savings for patients and governments and would apply as more drugs come under the policy ahead of the November midterm elections. Democratic lawmakers, however, have said the figures are difficult to verify and may be offset by higher costs for drugs not covered.

California governor candidates spar on taxes, Trump and healthcare

2026-05-06

California governor candidates clashed on taxes, President Donald Trump and healthcare in a CNN-broadcast debate Tuesday, with mail voting already underway for the state’s primary. The candidates also argued over state-funded healthcare for immigrants without legal status and whether California should move to a single-payer system.

Wyoming GOP defies state law to endorse primary candidates; candidates split

2026-05-06

The Wyoming Republican Party voted at its convention in Douglas last weekend to defy state election law and adopt new bylaws that allow the party to endorse and spend money on candidates before the primary, drawing sharply divergent reactions from candidates for governor, U.S. House and other statewide offices.

Zambia accuses US of tying $2B health deal to mineral access

2026-05-06

Zambia's foreign minister on Monday accused the United States of linking a $2 billion health assistance package to access to the country's critical minerals, escalating a diplomatic row over the Trump administration's transactional approach to foreign aid. The accusation, which the U.S. ambassador dismissed as 'absolutely and patently false,' comes amid broader tensions as Washington rewrites health agreements with dozens of aid-dependent nations.

University of Michigan professor's pro-Palestinian commencement remarks spark backlash

2026-05-06

The University of Michigan issued a formal apology after a history professor praised pro-Palestinian student protesters during a commencement speech on Saturday, sparking calls from Republican officials and a major donor to strip the university of federal funding and cut off donations. The speech, by outgoing faculty senate chair Derek R. Peterson, credited the activists with “opening our hearts to the injustice and inhumanity of Israel’s war in Gaza” and drew immediate condemnation from Jewish groups who say campus protests have created a hostile environment. University President Domenico Grasso apologized within hours, calling the remarks “inappropriate” and saying Peterson deviated from prepared remarks shared before the ceremony.

Italy’s Meloni denounces deepfake photo as political attack

2026-05-06

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday publicly condemned the circulation of a deepfake photograph that depicted her in bed wearing lingerie, calling the AI-generated image a political attack. She shared the image — and an accompanying social-media post suggesting she should be “ashamed” — in a Facebook post that warned of the dangers of AI-manipulated content.

Detroit launches year-round youth programming after ‘teen takeover’ gatherings downtown

2026-05-06

Mayor Mary Sheffield’s administration is launching a year-round slate of youth programming — extended recreation center hours, Midnight Basketball leagues, a website portal for free activities, and a mayoral youth advisory cabinet — after large informal teen gatherings downtown highlighted a shortage of safe, engaging spaces for the city’s young people.

Trump DOJ sues Denver over city's 1989 assault weapons ban

2026-05-06

The U.S. Department of Justice sued the city of Denver on Tuesday, challenging the constitutionality of a local ordinance that has banned the possession of assault weapons since 1989, the Associated Press reported. The lawsuit, filed a day after Denver officials publicly refused the Trump administration's demand to repeal the law, alleges the ban violates the Second Amendment.

Justice Department subpoenas names of Fulton County 2020 election workers, county moves to quash

2026-05-06

The Department of Justice is seeking the names and personal contact information of every person who worked on the 2020 election in Georgia’s Fulton County, according to a court filing by the county. Lawyers for the county filed a motion Monday to quash a grand jury subpoena they called “a chilling escalation in the campaign to terrorize Fulton County election workers.” The subpoena, dated April 17, demands the “name, position/function, residential and email addresses, and personal telephone number(s)” of thousands of employees and volunteers.

FBI raids Virginia Sen. L. Louise Lucas’s office and cannabis shop

2026-05-06

The Federal Bureau of Investigation executed a court‑authorized search warrant on Wednesday at the Portsmouth office of Virginia Senate president pro tempore L. Louise Lucas and at her Cannabis Outlet store, the state‑licensed hemp and CBD shop she opened after helping legalize marijuana. The FBI said only that it was conducting the search; the reason for the raid has not been disclosed.

Justice Department agrees to return Rep. Andy Ogles’ phone

2026-05-06

The Justice Department has agreed to return U.S. Rep. Andy Ogles’ personal cellphone that was seized as part of an investigation into his campaign finances, signaling it is abandoning the probe. The FBI confiscated the Tennessee Republican’s phone in August 2024, and defense lawyers disclosed in a Tuesday court filing that the department would promptly return the device and destroy information it obtained from it and from his Google email account.

Tech investor support boosts San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan in California race

2026-05-06

In California’s crowded Democratic race for governor, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan has emerged as a favorite of tech investors, who have backed his campaign with major donations and television advertising. Mahan, a former tech executive, faces concerns from labor leaders and some Democratic voters about whether he will adequately regulate the industry and stand up to its influence ahead of the June 2 primary.

DOJ targets slow immigration judges as Trump pushes to cut backlog

2026-05-06

Attorney General Todd Blanche said the Justice Department is trying to remove immigration judges it says are ruling too slowly or not following the law. He made the remarks in Phoenix at an event that gathers immigration officials, law enforcement and contractors as the Trump administration seeks to reduce a backlog of 3.7 million immigration cases.

Events mark Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples awareness day

2026-05-06

Indigenous people across the United States are gathering this week to honor relatives who are missing or have been killed and to call for better data collection, law-enforcement response and reforms to make communities safer. The observance, marked as a national day of awareness for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples movement, included marches, rallies, talking circles, self-defense classes and candlelight vigils planned for the May 5 week.

Penalized by the IRS during COVID? Some may be able to seek refunds

2026-05-06

The IRS may owe a refund or require the termination or abatement of certain penalties for some taxpayers penalized for filing late, failing to pay, or missing estimated tax payments during the COVID-19 period. A federal court decision extended the deadline for filing returns in the case and taxpayers have been urged to act quickly—most need to file a claim by July 10.

Pope Leo XIV to inaugurate Sagrada Familia tower in Spain visit

2026-05-06

Pope Leo XIV will travel to Spain for a June 6-12 visit that includes inaugurating the central tower of Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia and meeting with migrants at reception centers in the Canary Islands, the Vatican said May 6. The trip will begin in Madrid with meetings with Spain’s government, parliament and the king, and will also include a prayer vigil with young people.

Wyoming GOP candidates split on party plan to defy state law on endorsements

2026-05-06

Wyoming Republican statewide candidates are split on whether to seek or accept endorsements after the party voted to adopt bylaws that would allow it to back one Republican over another ahead of the primary. The move would challenge a Wyoming law that bars the party from endorsing or financially backing a candidate in opposed primary races.

University of Michigan apologizes after professor praises pro-Palestinian protesters

2026-05-06

The University of Michigan issued a formal apology after a history professor, speaking at a universitywide commencement ceremony, praised pro-Palestinian student protesters. In response to the backlash, the university president said the remarks were inappropriate and did not represent the school’s institutional position.

DC police put 13 officers on administrative leave in crime data probe

2026-05-06

Washington interim Police Chief Jeffery Carroll said Tuesday that 13 officers were placed on administrative leave as part of an internal investigation into how the department collects crime statistics. Carroll said the probe began earlier this year after a referral from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and that he would not release specifics.

Trump revives Presidential Physical Fitness Award for U.S. schools

2026-05-06

President Donald Trump on Tuesday revived the Presidential Physical Fitness Award, tying it to a return of an annual physical fitness test in U.S. schools. Speaking at an Oval Office event with children and athletes, Trump said his administration is working to “defend America’s cherished athletic traditions.” The award is linked to the Presidential Fitness Test, which was a public-school fixture for decades before being phased out under President Barack Obama.

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni condemns deepfake photo attack

2026-05-06

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni denounced the circulation of a deepfake photo of her posing in bed in lingerie, which she said is being used as a political attack. She posted the image on Facebook and warned that such artificial-intelligence-created pictures can deceive, manipulate and target anyone.

Detroit to launch “Occupy the Summer” youth programming after teen takeovers

2026-05-06

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield’s administration is rolling out year-round youth programming, including a June start for the Occupy the Summer series, after “teen takeovers” downtown highlighted demand for more safe, engaging spaces for young people. The plan includes expanded recreation center hours, Midnight Basketball leagues for 18 and older, and a new city portal that lets residents find free youth activities by age and ZIP code.

EEUU revoca visas de ejecutivos de La Nación en medio de críticas

2026-05-06

Estados Unidos revocó las visas de varios ejecutivos de la junta directiva del diario costarricense La Nación, según informó el periódico este fin de semana. La Nación dijo que sus miembros se enteraron por primera vez de las cancelaciones mediante reportes de medios partidarios vinculados al gobierno. El Departamento de Estado de Estados Unidos no respondió a una solicitud de comentarios.

Justice Department seeks names of 2020 Fulton County election workers

2026-05-06

The U.S. Department of Justice is seeking the names of people who worked the 2020 election in Fulton County, Georgia, seeking records that include personal contact information for county employees and poll workers, according to a court filing. Lawyers for Fulton County asked a judge to quash a grand jury subpoena served after an FBI seizure of ballots and related records from the county earlier this year, arguing the request is overly broad and cannot yield evidence for a criminal case because time limits have expired.

EEOC sues New York Times over alleged promotion bias

2026-05-06

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a discrimination lawsuit against The New York Times on Tuesday, saying the newspaper passed over a white male editor for a promotion in favor of a less-qualified woman to meet diversity goals. The EEOC says the complaint alleges gender and racial discrimination under Title VII, and the New York Times said it will defend itself “vigorously.”

FDA authorizes first fruit-flavored e-cigarettes for adult smokers

2026-05-06

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday authorized its first fruit-flavored e-cigarettes intended for adult smokers, a policy shift after months of appeals from the vaping industry. The agency said the products it approved—mango and blueberry varieties plus two menthol versions—are for adult users who are quitting or cutting back on cigarettes.

Zambia accuses U.S. of tying $2B health aid deal to mineral access

2026-05-06

Zambia’s foreign affairs minister said the United States is tying a $2 billion health assistance deal to access to the country’s critical minerals, calling allegations by outgoing U.S. ambassador Michael Gonzales “mischievous” and “undiplomatic.” Mulambo Haimbe made the comments after the departing ambassador said Zambian leaders “abdicated their responsibilities” by diverting funds and ignoring U.S. overtures.

Iran war traps Gulf migrant workers between danger and impossible return

2026-05-05

More than two dozen foreign workers have been killed in the Gulf and Israel since the United States and Israel went to war with Iran in February, according to an Associated Press report, and the conflict has trapped tens of millions of other migrants between deadly working conditions and the prospect of returning to countries already reeling from soaring fuel and food prices.

Lutnick tells House panel he did nothing wrong in Epstein ties

2026-05-05

Howard Lutnick, the U.S. commerce secretary, told House Oversight Committee members in a closed-door interview that he did nothing wrong regarding his contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to a transcript of the session released by the committee. Republican lawmakers praised Lutnick’s answers as forthcoming, while Democrats accused him of lying or evading questions about earlier meetings and a trip involving Epstein’s private island.

Iran war sharpens dilemmas for foreign workers in Gulf, advocates say

2026-05-05

Iran’s war has left foreign workers in Gulf states facing a stark choice between staying in jobs that pay more or returning home as conflict-driven price spikes strain already-poor countries, an Associated Press investigation reports. The story centers on Mohammad Abdullah Al Mamun, a Bangladeshi man who worked in Saudi Arabia for 15 years and died after a missile struck his workers’ camp on March 8.

US charges man who used Astor name to steal about $450 million

2026-05-05

A U.S. indictment unsealed this week says Vladimir Sklarov, who also used multiple aliases, duped Mexican billionaire Ricardo Salinas Pliego with a bogus stock-backed loan scheme using the Astor family name. Prosecutors said Sklarov set up a sham lender, Astor Asset Group, connected to the storied New York family to persuade Salinas to hand over shares worth at least $450 million.

Democrats eye Iowa as battleground as Vance backs GOP candidates

2026-05-05

Democrats see a path to regain influence in Iowa as Vice President JD Vance visits Des Moines on Tuesday to support Republican Rep. Zach Nunn and as voters weigh leadership dissatisfaction and rising costs tied to the Iran war, according to interviews with Iowa Democratic leaders and candidates. The party plans to expand ground operations ahead of June contests, focusing on cost-of-living themes and targeting multiple statewide and federal seats.

Rubio heads to Vatican to ease Trump-Leo tensions over Iran war

2026-05-05

Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans to travel to Rome and Vatican City this week to ease rising tensions between President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV over U.S. immigration and military policies. The State Department confirmed the Thursday and Friday trip will include discussions on the Middle East and shared security interests with Italian counterparts.

Republicans gain redistricting edge after Supreme Court weakens voting rights protections

2026-05-05

Republicans have opened a significant advantage in a national redistricting battle after a series of court rulings reshaped the legal landscape governing how states draw congressional districts. A U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down a Black-majority Louisiana district as an illegal racial gerrymander has emboldened GOP lawmakers across the South to target minority-held seats, while a Virginia Supreme Court ruling invalidated a voter-approved Democratic map that the party had counted on for gains.

Man shot after opening fire on Secret Service near Washington Monument

2026-05-05

Secret Service officers shot a man who opened fire on them near the Washington Monument on Monday afternoon, the agency said. A minor bystander was also wounded in the exchange, which prompted a brief White House lockdown while President Donald Trump attended an event inside.

Trump pushes for deeper US troop reductions in Germany after Pentagon drawdown

2026-05-05

President Donald Trump said Saturday he would go “a lot further” than the Pentagon’s announced withdrawal of 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany, escalating a break with decades of U.S. policy that has maintained a large military presence in Europe as a deterrent against Russia. The Pentagon announced the drawdown Friday without detailing which units would be affected, a move that Republican leaders of the armed services committees in Congress said would “send the wrong signal to Vladimir Putin.”

Mali junta leader takes over defense ministry after militant attacks kill minister

2026-05-05

Malian junta leader and interim president Assimi Goita has assumed the duties of defense minister, authorities said Monday, after the incumbent was killed in a suicide bombing that was part of the largest coordinated militant offensive in the country in over a decade. The presidential decree, broadcast on state television, also named former armed forces chief of staff Gen. Oumar Diarra as deputy defense minister. The killing of Defense Minister Gen. Sadio Camara on April 25 in the garrison town of Kati near Bamako was part of a multi-city assault by al-Qaida-linked militants and Tuareg separatist rebels that overran several towns and military bases.

Supreme Court ruling weakens Voting Rights Act, triggers redistricting war

2026-05-05

The Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais has gutted a key provision of the Voting Rights Act, setting off a nationwide redistricting war in which Republican-led states are moving to eliminate Democratic congressional districts and Democrats threaten retaliation. The ruling, issued last week, weakens the requirement that states draw districts giving racial minorities a fair opportunity to elect representatives of their choice, a protection that many lawmakers and experts said had been the last national restraint against partisan gerrymandering. The decision escalated a conflict that former President Donald Trump stoked when he urged Republicans to redraw maps mid-decade, pushing the American democratic system toward what analysts describe as winner-take-all political combat.

Federal appeals judges question Trump’s extended prosecutor appointments

2026-05-05

A federal appeals court panel on Monday expressed skepticism about the Trump administration’s practice of keeping top federal prosecutors in office for extended periods without U.S. Senate approval, in a case involving First Assistant U.S. Attorney John Sarcone in northern New York. Judges at the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments over a lower court ruling that Sarcone was not lawfully serving as the district’s top prosecutor and that his actions were voidable.

Tennessee GOP targets Memphis House seat as other states move post-ruling

2026-05-05

Tennessee Republicans began a special legislative session on Tuesday that could redraw the state’s lone Democratic-held U.S. House district centered on Memphis. At the same time, South Carolina Republicans announced they will try to eliminate a House seat held by longtime Black Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburn, while Louisiana lawmakers plan new districts after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down that state’s map. Alabama Republicans also advanced legislation for a special congressional primary if the high court allows changes.

Civil rights groups sue to stop Texas immigration law

2026-05-05

Civil rights groups filed a lawsuit on Monday seeking to block parts of Texas’ immigration law, known as Senate Bill 4, that would allow state police to arrest people suspected of illegally entering the U.S. across the Mexico border. The groups—led by the Texas Civil Rights Project and the ACLU of Texas—argue the measure is unconstitutional because immigration enforcement belongs to the federal government. The law is set to take effect May 15 after a federal appeals court lifted a long-running pause, and it could still be halted by another court.

Rubio will visit the Vatican as Trump-pope tensions rise

2026-05-05

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to Rome and Vatican City this week and meet with Pope Leo XIV as tensions between Pope and President Donald Trump over U.S. policies, including the Iran war, continue to escalate. The State Department said Rubio will be in Italy on Thursday and Friday, and the Vatican said the meeting with Leo would take place on Thursday.

States redraw U.S. House districts mid-decade as GOP seeks seat gains

2026-05-05

Republicans say court rulings and newly revised congressional maps give them an edge in this year’s elections, while Democrats are also moving to redraw districts in states they say could add House seats. The dispute centers on mid-decade redistricting in multiple states after U.S. Supreme Court decisions weakened Voting Rights Act protections and invalidated one Black-majority Louisiana district.

Mali junta leader assumes defense minister duties after attack kills Sadio Camara

2026-05-05

Mali’s junta leader and president, Assimi Goita, has assumed the duties of defense minister, authorities said, after the previous defense minister was killed in coordinated attacks by separatist and militant forces. A presidential decree announced on state television said Goita would remain president while also serving as defense minister, with former armed forces chief of staff Gen. Oumar Diarra assisting as deputy defense minister. The announcement comes after Defense Minister Gen. Sadio Camara was killed April 25 in a suicide bombing in the garrison town of Kati.

Europe leaders seek NATO clarity after Trump surprise troop pullback

2026-05-05

European leaders meeting in Yerevan said President Donald Trump’s decision to pull thousands of U.S. troops out of Germany is prompting renewed emphasis on Europe taking more responsibility for its security within NATO. The Pentagon last week announced a withdrawal of about 5,000 troops, while Trump told reporters Saturday that the U.S. plans on “cutting a lot further,” without providing a reason.

Redistricting war accelerates winner-take-all political combat in US

2026-05-05

The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision weakening the Voting Rights Act’s restraints on congressional districting is accelerating a Republican and Democratic fight over legislative maps, with states moving to redraw districts after the ruling, the Associated Press reported. The change, officials and political scientists said, is likely to deepen hyperpartisan politics and make it harder to find neutral limits on gerrymandering.

How Silicon Valley tech helped build China’s digital police state

2026-05-05

An Associated Press investigation says U.S. technology helped lay the foundation for China’s surveillance systems used to police dissidents, minorities and “key persons,” including in Xinjiang. AP reports that internal documents and other records show American companies designed and marketed tools that Chinese officials used to track people’s communications and movements, detain them and restrict their travel.

Southern state Republicans consider new House districts after Voting Rights Act ruling

2026-05-05

State lawmakers in Alabama, Tennessee and Louisiana are weighing new congressional district maps after a U.S. Supreme Court decision Monday approved Louisiana’s request to expedite the court’s formal judgment that weakened a key Voting Rights Act provision. Civil rights groups and protesters have rallied against the changes, with Alabama and Tennessee convening special sessions this week.

What to know about US military presence in Europe as Trump seeks drawdown

2026-05-05

President Donald Trump said he would go “a lot further” than a Pentagon plan to remove 5,000 troops from Germany, putting new focus on the U.S. role in Europe. The Pentagon’s Friday announcement followed weeks of tense exchanges with Germany’s chancellor, and comes as the United States has maintained large troop deployments supporting NATO and missions beyond Europe.

Many know someone affected by Trump immigration push: new AP-NORC poll

2026-05-05

Most U.S. adults say the United States is no longer a great place for immigrants, according to a new AP-NORC poll released Tuesday. About one-third of Americans say they or someone they know has started carrying proof of immigration status or citizenship, been detained or deported, changed travel plans, or significantly changed daily routines because of immigration enforcement.

Havana unveils first modular homes as Cuba faces housing collapse risk

2026-05-05

Cuba’s capital Havana unveiled its first two modular homes built from repurposed shipping containers, as residents describe living in fear amid the collapse of aging buildings. President Miguel Díaz-Canel and other officials gathered at the weekend event to mark the homes awarded to two single mothers, according to state media.

Trump administration backs delay of right whale protections to 2035

2026-05-05

The Trump administration said this month it strongly supports a proposal to postpone new federal protections for North Atlantic right whales until 2035, a move that would prioritize the fishing industry over immediate conservation measures for a species numbering only about 380. The legislation, introduced by U.S. Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine), would build on an existing regulatory pause and allow regulators time to craft rules that are less burdensome to fisheries, according to a White House memo released Friday.

White House says Trump drug deals could cut $529B in 10 years

2026-05-05

WASHINGTON (AP) — White House economists estimate that President Donald Trump’s deals with pharmaceutical companies to lower some U.S. prescription drug prices to the rates charged in other countries could save $529 billion over the next 10 years, according to an analysis obtained by The Associated Press.

California investigates Trump administration deal to end offshore wind project

2026-05-05

California’s Energy Commission has opened an investigation into a Trump administration deal that would pay offshore wind developers to voluntarily abandon their leases, the agency said Monday. The subpoena seeks documents about an agreement with the U.S. Department of the Interior for a planned payout involving Golden State Wind, and the commission said the payments would use taxpayer money to “make projects disappear.” The probe follows the administration’s broader effort to end U.S. offshore wind projects through lease buyouts.

U.S. revokes La Nación board visas, fueling press freedom fears in Costa Rica

2026-05-05

The United States revoked the U.S. visas of several board executives at La Nación, one of Costa Rica’s leading newspapers, the outlet disclosed Sunday, triggering sharp condemnation from press freedom advocates and opposition figures who view the move as part of a widening pattern of visa weaponization against critics of President Rodrigo Chaves and his close ally, U.S. President Donald Trump.

Mauritania sentences opposition lawmakers to four years over insulting president

2026-05-05

Two opposition lawmakers in Mauritania were sentenced to four years in prison after they posted messages insulting President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani and accusing the justice system of racial bias, their lawyers told The Associated Press. The case was decided in criminal court in Nouakchott after the lawmakers were charged last month with attacking symbols of the state and calling for gatherings to undermine public security.

WKRP comes to life: Real radio station revives sitcom call letters in Cincinnati

2026-05-05

WKRP is no longer just a TV punchline. The call letters of the fictional radio station from the 1978–1982 CBS sitcom "WKRP in Cincinnati" went live on the air Monday as a real adult-hits station, delighting fans and flooding the phone lines. The three stations — in Cincinnati, northern Kentucky, and Dayton, Ohio — adopted the call letters after their co-owner, Jeff Ziesmann, arranged a donation to a North Carolina nonprofit that had held WKRP-LP since 2014.

Beijing hunts ex-official who reported his boss using US surveillance tech

2026-05-05

Li Chuanliang, a former vice mayor from northeastern China, says he has been stalked across three continents and his family detained after he reported his boss’s corruption and fled to the United States. The Chinese government’s pursuit, aided by surveillance software from IBM, Oracle and Microsoft, is part of a broader campaign to hunt dissidents and wayward officials abroad, an Associated Press investigation has found.

Civil rights groups sue to block Texas immigration law ahead of May 15 start

2026-05-05

Civil rights organizations filed a new lawsuit Monday seeking to block core provisions of a Texas immigration law, Senate Bill 4, that would allow state police to arrest people suspected of crossing the U.S.-Mexico border without authorization and empower state magistrates to order deportations. The law is scheduled to take effect May 15 after a federal appeals court lifted a years-long injunction two weeks ago.

AP wins Pulitzer Prize for investigation into global surveillance tech

2026-05-05

The Associated Press won the Pulitzer Prize for international reporting on Monday for a global investigation that revealed how U.S. technology companies helped build China’s mass surveillance apparatus and how American agencies secretly tracked drivers using license plate data.

Post, AP, Reuters, Star Tribune among 2025 Pulitzer Prize winners

2026-05-05

The Washington Post was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for public service Monday for its scrutinizing coverage of the Trump administration’s overhaul of federal agencies, and The Associated Press won the prize for international reporting about China’s state-backed surveillance network, capping a year of prize-winning journalism that zeroed in on the Trump presidency. The New York Times took three of the coveted honors, Reuters collected two, and less-recognized outlets — from The Connecticut Mirror to the live podcast “Pablo Torre Finds Out” — were also recognized at a moment of deep financial strain and political hostility for American news organizations.

Nigeria to Repatriate 130 Citizens from South Africa After Anti-Migrant Protests

2026-05-05

Nigeria will repatriate 130 of its citizens from South Africa following a new wave of anti-immigrant protests, Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Monday. The repatriation is voluntary and more Nigerians are expected to register, she said, as she summoned South Africa's acting high commissioner to convey the Nigerian government's 'deep concern.'

Nigeria to repatriate 130 citizens after anti-immigrant protests in South Africa

2026-05-05

Nigeria will repatriate 130 of its citizens living in South Africa following a new wave of anti-immigration protests there, Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Monday. She summoned South Africa’s acting high commissioner to convey Nigeria’s 'profound concern' and described the repatriation effort as voluntary, with more expected to sign up.

Louisiana exoneree Calvin Duncan’s first day as clerk cut short after appeals court intervenes

2026-05-05

Calvin Duncan, a Louisiana man who spent decades in prison for a wrongful murder conviction before becoming an attorney, briefly took office Monday as the elected clerk of Orleans Parish Criminal District Court — only to see his term frozen hours later when a federal appeals court stayed a lower court’s order that had allowed him to assume the post. Duncan’s election last fall, winning 68% of the vote, was followed by a hurried legislative push by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry and the GOP-controlled Legislature to eliminate the clerk position before his term began, drawing accusations of voter disenfranchisement from civil rights groups.

Democrats mount Iowa push as Vance rallies GOP amid competitive races

2026-05-05

Democrats are mounting their most ambitious Iowa campaign in a decade, betting that dissatisfaction with President Donald Trump’s leadership and the rising costs of the Iran war will put the state back in play for the 2026 midterms. Vice President JD Vance will visit Des Moines on Tuesday to support Republican Rep. Zach Nunn, a sign of White House concern about competitive races in a state Trump won by double digits in 2024.

US tech enabled China’s mass detention of Uyghurs

2026-05-05

U.S. technology companies largely designed and built China’s digital surveillance state, providing the essential systems that enabled a brutal mass detention campaign against the native Uyghur population in Xinjiang, an Associated Press investigation has found. The investigation, based on tens of thousands of pages of leaked internal documents, emails, and procurement records, reveals how IBM, Cisco, Oracle, Dell, Intel, Nvidia and other firms sold billions of dollars of hardware, software, and predictive policing tools to Chinese police and government agencies despite repeated warnings that the technology was being used to crush dissent, persecute religious groups, and target ethnic minorities.

US tech companies enabled China’s surveillance state and mass detention of Uyghurs

2026-05-05

A three-year Associated Press investigation has found that American technology companies, especially IBM, played a far greater role in designing and building China’s surveillance state than previously known, enabling the mass tracking and detention of the Uyghur minority in Xinjiang. The investigation, based on over 100 interviews and tens of thousands of leaked documents, reveals that Chinese police and state-owned defense contractors worked directly with U.S. firms to create the world’s largest and most sophisticated digital surveillance apparatus.

Nine tribes sue to halt exploratory drilling at Black Hills sacred site Pe’Sla

2026-05-05

Nine federally recognized Lakota Sioux tribes from South Dakota, North Dakota and Nebraska filed a federal lawsuit Thursday to stop exploratory drilling for graphite near Pe’Sla, a sacred meadow in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The suit, filed in U.S. District Court for South Dakota, alleges the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Department of Agriculture violated federal law by approving the project without an environmental review and without consulting the tribes, whose members have used the site for ceremonies, prayer and youth camps for centuries.

Argentina's Milei restores journalists' access to presidency after ban sparks backlash

2026-05-05

Argentine President Javier Milei restored journalists' access to the Casa Rosada on Monday, the Associated Press reported, more than a week after blocking credentialed reporters and drawing condemnation from press freedom groups, lawmakers, and the Catholic Church. The partial reopening came with new physical restrictions on reporters' movement inside the presidential palace, while two television channels remained barred without explanation.

Vice President JD Vance rallies Iowa GOP voters, backs Rep. Zach Nunn ahead of 2028

2026-05-05

Vice President JD Vance made his first Iowa stop since taking office on May 5, 2026, speaking to hundreds of supporters at a Des Moines steel plant. He lauded the administration’s tax and tariff policies, praised Republican Rep. Zach Nunn as a steady‑hand for working‑class voters, and warned Iowans about higher gas and fertilizer prices tied to the Iran war. The visit was a test of Vance’s appeal to Iowa Republicans ahead of the state’s early caucus, which will shape the 2028 presidential nomination.

Indigenous communities nationwide mark Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples awareness day

2026-05-05

Across the United States, Indigenous peoples gathered this week to honor relatives who are missing or have been killed and to demand better data collection, law‑enforcement response and reforms to keep their communities safer, the Associated Press reported. Events took place in cities from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Denver, Colorado, and from Madison, Wisconsin, to Oklahoma City, with participants wearing red to signal solidarity. Advocates cite the U.S. Department of Justice’s finding that Native Americans are more than twice as likely as the general population to be victims of violent crime, and they call on federal agencies to act on longstanding legislation such as Savanna’s Act and the Not Invisible Act.

ADL: US antisemitic incidents drop in 2025, driven by campus fall

2026-05-05

The Anti-Defamation League said antisemitic incidents it tallied across the United States declined sharply in 2025, with a steep drop on college campuses. The ADL’s annual audit, released Wednesday, found 6,274 antisemitic incidents of assault, harassment and vandalism overall in 2025, down 33% from 2024.

Real-life WKRP returns in Cincinnati, bringing “The Oasis” on air

2026-05-05

WKRP fans in Cincinnati can tune in Monday to a real radio station that uses the call letters from the CBS sitcom “WKRP in Cincinnati.” The station is simulcast across three outlets in Cincinnati, northern Kentucky and Dayton, Ohio, and the owners say listeners have called in enthusiastically.

Beijing hunts exiled official overseas using U.S. surveillance tech, AP finds

2026-05-05

Retired Chinese official Li Chuanliang fled to the United States after criticizing leaders and alleging Beijing continued to hunt him abroad with surveillance. An Associated Press investigation said Li’s communications were monitored, his assets were seized, and more than 40 associates and relatives—including his pregnant daughter—were identified and detained with help from facial recognition and other tools.

Judge tells Trump officials not to cut trees at historic Washington golf course

2026-05-05

A federal judge told the U.S. government Monday not to cut down more than 10 trees at the historic East Potomac Golf Course without providing notice, while a legal dispute over the planned renovations moves forward. U.S. District Court Judge Ana Reyes said she would not issue a temporary restraining order yet in the case brought by the DC Preservation League.

Trump supports delaying endangered right whale protections to 2035

2026-05-05

The Trump administration said it strongly supports a proposal to delay new federal protections for North Atlantic right whales until 2035, backing a plan aimed at reducing new constraints on commercial fishing. The proposal, supported by U.S. Rep. Jared Golden, comes after the government paused new federal rules on right whales until 2028.

Louisiana exoneree Calvin Duncan sworn in as clerk, then order freezes start

2026-05-05

Louisiana’s Gov. Jeff Landry signed a law to eliminate the elected Orleans Parish criminal court clerk position before Calvin Duncan’s term began, but a federal judge blocked the change on Sunday. Duncan, a Louisiana man whose murder conviction was vacated after decades in prison for a wrongful conviction, briefly began work Monday before the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals froze the decision. The case now heads through appeals as civil rights groups argue Duncan’s term cannot be cut short.

Border Patrol’s driver surveillance flags “suspicious” trips, AP finds

2026-05-05

The U.S. Border Patrol has been monitoring millions of drivers nationwide through license plate readers and a predictive intelligence program, according to a new Associated Press investigation. The program uses cameras and algorithms to identify vehicles based on where they came from, where they are going and which routes they take, and it has led to stops, searches and arrests, the investigation found.

Tribes sue to halt exploratory graphite drilling near Black Hills sacred site

2026-05-05

Nine Native American tribes in South Dakota, North Dakota and Nebraska sued the federal government Thursday to stop exploratory drilling for graphite near Pe’Sla, a sacred ceremonial meadow in the Black Hills. The tribes said the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Department of Agriculture violated federal law when they approved the project without required consultation and environmental review.

Argentina’s Milei restores journalists’ access after Casa Rosada ban

2026-05-05

Argentina’s President Javier Milei restored credentialed journalists’ access to his government headquarters, the Casa Rosada, on Monday after more than a week of restrictions that included blocking some TV reporters and limiting how reporters could move inside. Manuel Adorni, Milei’s cabinet chief, said the changes were meant to “restore the (press) room’s operations” and defend security rules after authorities accused a TV channel of espionage. Press freedom advocates and lawmakers criticized the episode as a setback for free expression.

AP wins Pulitzer Prize for investigation into government surveillance tech

2026-05-05

The Associated Press on Monday won a Pulitzer Prize for international reporting for an investigation into the expansion of government surveillance efforts in China and the role U.S. tech companies played in building the system. The Pulitzer board recognized AP journalists Dake Kang, Garance Burke, Byron Tau and Aniruddha Ghosal, along with contributor Yael Grauer, for what it called “an astonishing global investigation into state-of-the-art tools of mass surveillance.”

Nigeria says 130 citizens seek repatriation after protests in South Africa

2026-05-05

Nigeria’s foreign minister says the government will repatriate 130 Nigerians living in South Africa after a new wave of anti-immigration protests there. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the repatriation is voluntary and that more people are expected to sign up as the government presses South Africa over concerns, including violence against migrants.

Nigeria will repatriate 130 Nigerians in South Africa after anti-immigration protests

2026-05-05

Nigeria’s foreign minister said the government will repatriate 130 Nigerians living in South Africa after fresh anti-immigration protests, and said no Nigerian died in the violence from the previous week. The minister, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said she summoned South Africa’s interim representative in Nigeria to convey Abuja’s “deep concern.” South Africa’s foreign minister, Ronald Lamola, said he also spoke by phone with Odumegwu-Ojukwu about “irregular migration” and ways to address its drivers.

US revokes visas for La Nación executives, sparks Costa Rica press fears

2026-05-05

Costa Rica’s leading newspaper La Nación said the United States has revoked visas for several board executives, prompting calls in Costa Rica for explanations and warning that immigration restrictions are being used to punish critics. The newspaper said the affected members learned about the visa revocations through reports in pro-government media and that Washington gave no reason.

Pulitzer Prize winners include Washington Post, AP for service and surveillance

2026-05-05

The Washington Post won the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service on Monday for scrutinizing the Trump administration’s overhaul of federal agencies. The Associated Press won the prize for international reporting about surveillance. The announcement also recognized work by The New York Times, Reuters and The Minnesota Star Tribune, among others.

Sample — Senate procedural vote tests informed-citizenship floor value

2026-05-04

This is a sample article rendered from the article-generation framework's output schema. Real articles will be produced by the publication pipeline operating from the framework specification documented in the methodology section. Headline, lede, nut graf, body, sources, and atomic claims are all populated from the framework's structured output.

Historians debate U.S. founding as Christian nation amid America 250 push

2026-05-04

As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence, President Donald Trump and senior administration officials are promoting a Christian nation narrative that historians say contradicts the historical record. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared that “America was founded as a Christian nation … in our DNA,” while Trump has championed an “America Prays” rally on the National Mall. But most serious historians agree that the founders did not intend to create a Christian republic, though they drew on varied religious and Enlightenment influences.

Sample — Inspector general report tests accountability-of-power coverage

2026-05-04

Sample article demonstrating how an accountability-of-power story would render. Inspector general reports, court filings, regulatory findings, and similar primary documents are exactly the source class the framework prioritizes when selection scoring weights toward this floor value.

Appeals judges question Trump’s long-term interim top prosecutor setup

2026-05-04

Federal appeals judges said Monday they were skeptical that President Donald Trump can keep certain top federal prosecutors in place for extended periods without U.S. Senate approval. The concern arose as the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reviewed a decision involving First Assistant U.S. Attorney John Sarcone and his role in New York’s northern district.

Tennessee GOP targets Memphis House district; South Carolina weighs changes

2026-05-04

Republican lawmakers in several Southern states moved to redraw U.S. House districts after a recent Supreme Court ruling, as civil rights advocates protested. Tennessee Republicans began a special legislative session aimed at potentially breaking up Memphis’ majority-Black congressional seat, while Alabama lawmakers advanced legislation tied to whether the high court allows district changes. In South Carolina, Republican leaders said they plan to pursue changes that would affect the seat held by longtime Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburn.

Vance woos Iowa GOP voters ahead of 2028 while backing Zach Nunn

2026-05-04

Vice President JD Vance made his first trip to Iowa since taking office on Monday, promoting the administration’s tax and tariff policies and casting Iowa’s GOP as aligned with working-class voters. Speaking at a steel manufacturing facility in Des Moines with Rep. Zach Nunn, Vance attacked Democrats on issues including immigration and fraud and praised Nunn ahead of November midterms.

What to expect in Ohio’s statewide primaries for governor, Senate and House

2026-05-04

Ohio voters will choose party nominees in statewide primaries Tuesday, with races in governor, U.S. Senate and key U.S. House districts setting up November contests that could shape control of Congress. The Associated Press outlined what to watch, including who is on each party ballot, when polls close, and how and when results are reported as votes are tallied.

Trump stokes UFO file suspense as Pentagon prepares more releases

2026-05-04

President Donald Trump said the Pentagon will soon release additional records related to unidentified anomalous phenomena, fueling interest and skepticism amid ongoing efforts to declassify such material. Speaking at a White House event honoring NASA astronauts, Trump said the administration “is going to publish a lot of things we haven’t published” and called some of them “very interesting.” The remarks come as a Pentagon office and a congressional working group press for more disclosures about UFOs and alleged encounters.

Landlords sue to recover pandemic-era losses blocked by eviction moratorium

2026-05-04

Landlords who say they were barred from evicting nonpaying tenants during a federal pandemic moratorium want compensation from the federal government, filing a lawsuit that challenges the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s authority and Fifth Amendment. The plaintiffs, which include property owners in Texas and Nevada, say they have reached settlement discussions with the Justice Department after winning on appeal.

Trump teases UAP file release as former Pentagon official calls promises a 'shiny object'

2026-05-04

President Donald Trump said the Pentagon is preparing to release what he called “very interesting” government files on unidentified anomalous phenomena, reigniting public speculation about extraterrestrial life even as the former head of the Pentagon’s UAP office cautioned that the president’s promises are bravado and that no explosive revelations exist in the records.

Trump says Pentagon will release “very interesting” UFO files soon

2026-05-04

President Donald Trump said the Pentagon is preparing to release some “very interesting” UFO files uncovered by his administration, during remarks at a White House event celebrating NASA astronauts. He also previously directed federal agencies to release records related to extraterrestrial life and UFOs, setting off debate over whether the disclosures will amount to new revelations.

Armed men abduct former minister and junta critic in Mali's capital

2026-05-04

ARMED, HOODED men abducted Mountaga Tall, a former Malian minister and prominent critic of the ruling military junta, from his home in Bamako late Saturday, his family said Sunday. The men did not identify themselves or present an arrest warrant, but a relative said they were from the armed forces, marking the latest incident in a widening crackdown following the country's worst coordinated armed assault in over a decade.

Landlords Seek $1.5 Billion Compensation for Pandemic Eviction Ban

2026-05-04

Landlords who lost revenue during the federal pandemic eviction moratorium are pressing the Trump administration for compensation, with settlement talks underway in a federal lawsuit that could see the government pay as much as $1.5 billion to more than 1,500 property owners.

Cuba's ration book system collapses as Cubans go hungry

2026-05-04

Cuba’s government ration book system, established by Fidel Castro in the early 1960s to guarantee subsidized food for every household, has collapsed to the point that state-run stores are nearly empty and a growing number of Cubans say they can no longer survive on the meager goods it provides. José Luis Amate López, who works at a bodega in central Havana, said his store served almost no customers for two weeks in late April because the shelves — once so full you could barely walk — held only rice, sugar and split chickpeas.

Events mark Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples awareness day

2026-05-04

Indigenous people across the United States are gathering this week to honor relatives who are missing or have been killed and to call for better data collection and law enforcement response, ahead of a national day of awareness observed May 5. The events include marches, rallies, candlelight vigils and other activities planned for the week of May 5, organizers said.

Indiana voters head to polls Tuesday for state primaries and U.S. House races

2026-05-04

Indiana voters will vote Tuesday in state primaries that include Trump-backed challenges to several Republican state senators, alongside Democratic and Republican contests for U.S. House nominations under existing district lines, the Associated Press reports. Polls close at 6 p.m. local time statewide, with some Central-time-area precincts closing at 7 p.m. ET.

Trial could change Meta apps and algorithms as New Mexico seeks safeguards

2026-05-04

New Mexico state prosecutors opened the second phase of a three-week bench trial Monday, asking a judge to order fundamental changes to Meta’s apps and algorithms to better protect children. The case stems from allegations that platforms including Instagram created a public safety hazard and contributed to children’s mental health harms.

Migrant boat runs aground in northern France, leaving 2 dead

2026-05-04

A small boat carrying migrants trying to cross the English Channel ran aground on a beach in northern France, leaving two people dead and 16 others injured, French authorities said on Sunday. The vessel, carrying 82 people, drifted after its engine failed near Hardelot, south of the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer.

Former Malian minister abducted by armed men in Bamako

2026-05-04

Armed, hooded men abducted former Malian education and science minister Mountaga Tall from his home in Bamako, a family member told The Associated Press, as attacks on Mali’s government spread. Mahmoud Touré said the men stormed Tall’s residence shortly before midnight Saturday, did not identify themselves or provide a reason, and mistreated Tall’s wife while taking his phone.

Debate over whether U.S. founders intended a Christian nation heats up for 250

2026-05-04

As the U.S. approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, the long-running debate over whether the nation’s founders intended a Christian republic is being amplified by recent political and advocacy efforts. A new push tied to the Trump administration’s “America Prays” event and remarks from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is drawing opposition from groups that say the idea would conflict with the Constitution’s separation of church and state.

Sample — Court ruling tests equality-and-fairness coverage

2026-05-03

Sample article demonstrating how an equality-and-fairness story would render. Court rulings on equal-protection matters anchor the cluster; quotation of the ruling and parties to the case constitutes the consensus-floor body of the article.

Trump passes on Spirit Airlines stake as government corporate portfolio grows

2026-05-03

Spirit Airlines ceased operations Saturday after failed negotiations with the Trump administration for a government stake, the latest test of the President’s expansion of federal ownership of private companies. Trump has overseen the government’s investment in chipmaker Intel, rare-earths companies, and other firms, upending traditional GOP opposition to government picking winners and losers. The budget carrier’s shutdown marks the largest corporate casualty yet of an administration that sees activist investing as central to its economic policy.

Trump administration defied court orders in at least 31 lawsuits since February 2025

2026-05-03

The Trump administration has been found in violation of court orders in at least 31 lawsuits since February 2025, an Associated Press review of court records shows. Legal experts warn the defiance, which includes more than 250 additional instances of noncompliance in immigration petitions, is eroding respect for the rule of law.

Spain demands activist's release as aid group says Gaza flotilla detainees on hunger strike

2026-05-03

Spain’s foreign minister demanded the immediate release of a Spanish-Swedish dual national detained by Israel after its navy intercepted a Gaza-bound aid flotilla in international waters, deepening already strained relations between the two governments. A legal advocacy group said Saturday the man and a second detained activist, a Brazilian national, had begun a hunger strike after allegedly being beaten in Israeli custody.

What to expect in Michigan’s special election for state Senate District 35

2026-05-03

Voters in Michigan’s Senate District 35 will decide control of the state Senate on Tuesday in a special election to fill a seat left vacant after Democrat Kristen McDonald Rivet was elected to Congress. The Associated Press’ decision notes outline key logistics, including when polls close and how the AP will call the race.

New generation faces renewed fight for racial representation in the South

2026-05-03

Black Americans are facing renewed legal and political fights over racial representation after the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision this week weakening the Voting Rights Act. The ruling, prompted by a challenge to Louisiana’s congressional map, is reshaping how states draw districts and how candidates can compete, with officials and lawmakers in Mississippi, Louisiana and Tennessee describing fresh uncertainty ahead of possible redistricting.

Pattern of Trump administration noncompliance with lower court orders

2026-05-03

Federal judges have raised alarms in recent months about the Trump administration’s failure to follow court orders in individual immigration cases, according to an Associated Press review of court records. The AP found district judges ruled the administration violated an order in at least 31 lawsuits dating back to the first days of President Donald Trump’s second term.

Starmer calls for tougher action at pro-Palestinian protests

2026-05-03

Britain’s prime minister, Keir Starmer, said Saturday that tougher action may be needed against some chants at pro-Palestinian protests in the U.K. after two Jewish men were stabbed in London. Starmer said he would defend the right to protest but suggested some marches could be banned. The remarks came as British authorities raised the U.K.’s terror threat level to “severe” after Wednesday’s attack.

Supreme Court asked to restore mail access to abortion pill mifepristone

2026-05-03

The U.S. Supreme Court is being asked to block an appellate ruling that cut off mail-order access to the abortion pill mifepristone, according to a filing by the drugmakers. Danco Laboratories and GenBioPro asked the high court on Saturday to pause the decision from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that took effect the day after it was issued.

US to cut more troops in Germany than planned, Trump says

2026-05-03

President Donald Trump said the United States will significantly reduce its troop presence in Germany, escalating a dispute with Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The Pentagon had announced earlier that 5,000 troops would be withdrawn, but Trump told reporters in Florida that the reduction would be “a lot further than 5,000.”

What to expect in Ohio’s state primaries, governor and congressional races

2026-05-03

Ohio voters head to statewide primary polls on Tuesday to choose candidates for governor, the U.S. Senate and House, and other statewide offices, with many candidates already setting their sights on November. The Republican race for governor centers on Vivek Ramaswamy, facing Casey Putsch, while Democrats will pick Dr. Amy Acton as their nominee. The Associated Press said it will not declare winners until there is no scenario in which a trailing candidate can close the gap.

Trump officials cited for widespread noncompliance with court orders

2026-05-03

The Associated Press review found district court judges ruled the Trump administration violated court orders in at least 31 lawsuits over a wide range of policy areas during the administration’s first 15 months. The review also found higher courts, including the Supreme Court, sided with the White House in nearly half of those cases, a pattern critics say can embolden noncompliance. The administration said it will continue to comply with lawful court rulings.

Sinaloa governor, mayor step aside after U.S. drug trafficking indictment

2026-05-03

Two senior members of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum’s Morena party in Sinaloa state announced they would temporarily leave office after a U.S. indictment accused them and eight other politicians and security officers of protecting the Sinaloa cartel in exchange for bribes and political support.

COVID-19 debate resurfaces in Ohio governor race between Amy Acton and Vivek Ramaswamy

2026-05-03

Dr. Amy Acton, the Democratic nominee for Ohio governor, faces a central line of Republican criticism tied to the COVID-19 orders issued in 2020 while Gov. Mike DeWine was battling the pandemic. Acton, who was Ohio’s health director when coronavirus restrictions were put in place, is now seeking to become the first Democrat in two decades to win the state’s top office as she runs against Republican Vivek Ramaswamy in the general election.

Trump officials defied court orders in at least 31 lawsuits, AP review finds

2026-05-03

The Trump administration violated court orders in at least 31 lawsuits during its first 15 months in office, an Associated Press review of court records has found. The violations span issues from mass deportations and spending freezes to immigration detention practices, and legal experts say the pattern has no precedent in modern U.S. history.

Lai lands in Eswatini after China-linked flight permit revocations delay trip

2026-05-03

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini on Saturday after his government was forced to delay the trip when Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar revoked overflight permission under what Taiwanese officials called “strong pressure from the Chinese authorities, including economic coercion.”

Trial could change Meta apps and algorithms as New Mexico seeks safeguards

2026-05-03

New Mexico state prosecutors began a second phase of a landmark bench trial Monday, asking a judge to impose broad changes on Meta’s social media apps and algorithms to protect children. The trial follows a first-phase civil verdict that ordered $375 million in penalties against Meta over findings related to children’s mental health and concealment of what the state said the company knew about child sexual exploitation.

Fewer AAPI adults report hate incidents than in 2023, new poll shows

2026-05-03

About 1 in 4 Asian American and Pacific Islander adults say they experienced a hate crime or incident in the past year, according to a new AP-NORC/AAPI Data poll released as AAPI Heritage Month begins. The share reporting overt anti-Asian attacks is down from 2023, but many AAPI adults say racial discrimination concerns remain.

Trump says he’d back Intel, but passed on taxpayer stake in Spirit

2026-05-03

President Donald Trump was open to the idea of the U.S. government taking ownership stakes in companies during his second term, including Intel, but he passed on a potential government stake in Spirit Airlines. Spirit Airlines shut down after failing to reach a deal with the administration, which has increasingly viewed government investment as an activist approach to shaping the economy.

Taiwan’s Lai visits Eswatini after trip delayed by overflight denials

2026-05-03

Lai Ching-te arrived in Eswatini on Saturday after Taiwan postponed his trip when several countries withdrew overflight clearance, which Taiwan said was due to pressure from China. Lai posted that the visit would affirm Taiwan’s “longstanding friendship” with its only diplomatic ally in Africa. China’s Foreign Ministry criticized the trip as a “laughable stunt,” while Taiwan said it followed international law and diplomatic practice.

Federal prosecutors charge 4 New Jersey residents with illegally voting

2026-05-03

NEWARK, N.J. — Federal prosecutors in New Jersey have charged four residents with illegally voting in federal elections, saying they were not U.S. citizens when they registered and cast ballots. The U.S. attorney’s office also alleges the defendants lied on naturalization applications by claiming they had never voted or registered to vote in a federal election.

China pressure led to cancellation of RightsCon in Zambia by Taiwanese exclusion

2026-05-03

In Zambia, Access Now said it canceled RightsCon 2026, an international human-rights and technology summit scheduled to open next week, after it was told the Zambian government faced pressure from China to exclude Taiwanese civil-society participants. Access Now said it pushed back on any move to bar Taiwanese delegates and described the government’s request as linked to “moderating specific topics” and excluding at-risk communities from both in-person and online participation.

FEMA tells court it’s offering jobs back to CORE staff let go

2026-05-03

FEMA told a U.S. District Court it has begun offering new appointments to term-limited disaster workers whose contracts expired in January, reversing a nonrenewal decision that triggered a lawsuit. An attorney for the Trump administration told the court on May 2 that FEMA has “initiated contact to offer new appointments” to some former CORE staff after the contracts were not renewed.

Spain urges release of activist detained by Israel after aid flotilla

2026-05-03

Spain’s foreign minister called for the immediate release of a Spanish-Swedish activist detained by Israel after an aid flotilla bound for Gaza was intercepted in international waters, a move that has deepened tensions between the two countries. A legal aid group said the detainees, including the man’s Brazilian counterpart, began a hunger strike after what they described as repeated beatings in custody.

Trump announces 25% tariff on EU autos, accusing bloc of violating 2025 trade deal

2026-05-02

President Donald Trump said Friday he will increase tariffs on European Union autos to 25% next week, accusing the bloc of failing to comply with the Turnberry Agreement trade framework negotiated last July — a move that threatens to further destabilize a global economy already battered by the Iran war and rising energy prices.

Supreme Court hollows out Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act

2026-05-02

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled that Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act requires a showing of intentional discrimination, a decision legal experts say will make it significantly harder to challenge maps that dilute the voting strength of racial minorities.

Supreme Court hollows Voting Rights Act’s Section 2 in Louisiana case

2026-05-02

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday gutted a key part of the Voting Rights Act that has helped protect minority voting rights for more than six decades, in a congressional redistricting case from Louisiana. The ruling leaves voting rights advocates and lawmakers warning that political mapmakers will face fewer legal barriers when drawing districts.

Trump administration weighs taxpayer-funded bailout of Spirit Airlines

2026-05-02

President Donald Trump said Friday that his administration delivered a “final proposal” to Spirit Airlines, keeping open the possibility of a taxpayer-funded takeover that could prevent the budget carrier from collapsing during its second bankruptcy proceeding in less than two years.

Trump picks Dr. Nicole Saphier for surgeon general after Means nomination collapses

2026-05-02

President Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Nicole Saphier, a radiologist and former Fox News contributor, to be the next U.S. surgeon general, after his previous pick, Dr. Casey Means, failed to advance out of a Senate committee. Saphier — who holds an active medical license, supports vaccination, and has both praised and publicly criticized the administration’s handling of health issues — would step into the role at a moment of internal tension over the White House’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda.

Trump says a Spirit Airlines bailout deal still is possible

2026-05-02

President Donald Trump said his administration delivered a “final proposal” to Spirit Airlines and is still considering a taxpayer-funded takeover that could keep the carrier from failing during its Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. Trump did not provide deal details but said an announcement could come later Friday or Saturday.

White House tells Congress Iran war 'terminated' as 60-day deadline passes

2026-05-02

The White House informed Congress on Friday that hostilities with Iran have 'terminated,' a declaration that, if accepted, would nullify the impending 60-day deadline under the War Powers Resolution. In a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley, President Donald Trump asserted that the conflict that began on Feb. 28 ended when a fragile ceasefire took hold in early April, even as the U.S. Navy continues to blockade Iranian oil tankers. The deadline passed without action from Republican lawmakers, who have repeatedly deferred to the president on war powers.

Ghana rejects US health deal over data access and sovereignty concerns

2026-05-02

Ghana officially rejected a proposed U.S. health funding agreement over privacy concerns on Friday, citing inadequate data governance safeguards and a lack of local oversight. The decision follows months of negotiations that officials said would have granted broad access to sensitive national health records without prior domestic approval.

Powell to stay on Fed board, setting up clash with incoming chair Warsh

2026-05-02

Outgoing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell announced Wednesday he will remain on the central bank’s board of governors after his term as chair ends May 15, setting up the first overlap of a former and incoming chair in nearly five decades. President Trump’s nominee to lead the Fed, Kevin Warsh, has called for “regime change” at the institution, but the board showed its independence by logging the most dissenting votes since October 1992.

Trump approves 650-mile Bridger oil pipeline from Canada

2026-05-02

President Donald Trump on Thursday granted a cross-border permit for the Bridger Pipeline Expansion, a major new crude oil line connecting Canada’s energy sector to U.S. markets through Montana and Wyoming. The project, nicknamed “Keystone Light” for its similarities to the canceled Keystone XL line, is slated to carry up to 550,000 barrels of oil daily once construction begins in fall 2027.

Treasury Secretary Bessent warns Americans against easy-money traps, urges saving

2026-05-02

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is urging Americans to avoid what he calls the “allure of easy money” — lottery tickets, buy-now-pay-later loans, and promises of crypto riches — and instead to invest and save for the long term. In an interview with The Associated Press at the close of Financial Literacy Month, Bessent said his passion for teaching budgeting and debt management is shaped by his own rise from rural poverty to billionaire hedge fund manager, a journey he hopes will encourage others to build financial stability.

Trump says he will raise EU auto tariffs to 25% next week

2026-05-02

President Donald Trump said he will increase the tariffs on cars and trucks imported from the European Union next week to 25%, a move he attributed to the EU failing to comply with a trade deal agreed last July. Trump made the announcement in a social media post and later told reporters that raising import taxes would pressure European automakers to shift production to the United States faster.

Connecticut House approves bill creating new child welfare oversight

2026-05-02

The Connecticut House has approved a bill that would create new oversight for the state Department of Children and Families, after the state Office of the Child Advocate criticized DCF’s casework. In a letter released this week, the office pointed to alleged failures tied to child fatalities, including an apparent suicide of a child who died shortly after requesting a move into foster care.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pushes budgeting and saving over easy money

2026-05-02

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged Americans to focus on budgeting and saving rather than chasing “easy money” products such as lottery tickets, buy now, pay later loans and crypto windfalls. Speaking to The Associated Press at the end of Financial Literacy Month, Bessent said he prioritized meetings with community bankers, retirees and students to discuss how to manage debt and invest for the future.

Trump approves Bridger Pipeline Expansion, dubbed “Keystone Light,”

2026-05-02

President Donald Trump approved a key permit allowing a new Canada-to-U.S. oil pipeline to cross the border in Montana. The Bridger Pipeline Expansion, dubbed “Keystone Light,” would carry up to 550,000 barrels of oil per day from Canada through Montana and Wyoming. Construction would require additional state and federal environmental approvals before the company can begin work.

Trump pick Kevin Warsh faces a Fed reshaped by Powell’s stay

2026-05-02

President Trump’s pick to lead the Federal Reserve, Kevin Warsh, is poised to take over after former chair Jerome Powell said he will remain a governor for a time to protect the Fed’s independence amid White House legal attacks. Powell, speaking this week, said his presence on the board could make it harder for Warsh to cut the Fed’s short-term interest rate. The Fed’s policy statement also drew dissents from multiple officials, underscoring uncertainty ahead of Warsh’s likely Senate confirmation.

Trump administration says Iran war 'terminated' before War Powers deadline

2026-05-02

The Trump administration argued Thursday that its military campaign against Iran has ended under the War Powers Resolution, citing a ceasefire that began April 7 and has since been extended. The position would allow the White House to bypass a Friday deadline to seek congressional approval for hostilities lasting more than 60 days. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth advanced the argument during Senate testimony, saying it was the administration’s “understanding” that the 60-day clock is paused during a ceasefire.

Supreme Court lets anti-abortion pregnancy center challenge New Jersey subpoena in federal court

2026-05-02

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday sided unanimously with a faith-based pregnancy center that raised First Amendment concerns about a New Jersey investigation into whether it misled people to discourage abortions. The procedural ruling allows First Choice Women's Resource Centers to sue over a state-issued subpoena in federal court, though it does not resolve the underlying case.

Trump endorses Andy Barr in Kentucky Senate race, nudges rival into ambassadorship

2026-05-02

President Donald Trump endorsed Kentucky Rep. Andy Barr for the U.S. Senate on Friday, May 1, 2026, and pushed Barr’s rival, businessman Nate Morris, to leave the race and accept an ambassadorship in his administration. The endorsement gives Barr a significant advantage in the Republican primary to succeed retiring Sen. Mitch McConnell, the former Senate GOP leader. Morris announced shortly afterward that he was stepping aside and endorsed Barr, clearing the field of a potentially competitive challenger days before the May 19 primary. Trump and Morris each praised the other on social media, with Trump calling Morris a “strong MAGA Warrior.”

Maine governor's Senate bid collapses as Democratic voters reject establishment pick

2026-05-02

Maine Gov. Janet Mills abandoned her U.S. Senate campaign Thursday, unable to match the fundraising or enthusiasm of political newcomer Graham Platner, marking a high-profile defeat for Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, who had personally recruited her. Mills’s exit clears the way for Platner, a 41-year-old oyster farmer with no prior elected experience, to become the likely Democratic nominee against Republican Sen. Susan Collins, and it highlights a growing revolt by Democratic voters against their party’s aging leadership.

Louisiana suspends House primaries after Supreme Court voting-rights ruling

2026-05-02

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry suspended the state's U.S. House primaries on April 30, two days before early voting was scheduled to begin, after the Supreme Court struck down a majority-Black congressional district as an unconstitutional racial gerrymander. The ruling, which significantly weakens the Voting Rights Act, triggered immediate legal challenges and prompted top Republicans to urge other states to redraw their district lines before the November midterms.

Louisiana suspends US House primaries after Supreme Court ruling

2026-05-02

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry (R) issued an executive order Thursday postponing the state’s May 16 U.S. House primary, citing a Supreme Court ruling that struck down a majority Black congressional district and weakened minority protections under the Voting Rights Act. The suspension, which took effect two days before early voting was to open, temporarily pauses the election until at least July 15 while the Legislature draws new districts.

Trump argues Iran war ended, avoids War Powers vote as lawmakers push back

2026-05-02

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration is arguing that its war in Iran has already ended because of the ceasefire that began in early April, a position that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made during Senate testimony and that would allow the White House to avoid seeking congressional approval under the War Powers Resolution. Democrats and some Republicans say the 60-day deadline for approval still applies, even with the ceasefire extended.

Supreme Court backs anti-abortion center, citing First Amendment fears

2026-05-02

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday sided with an anti-abortion pregnancy center that challenged a New Jersey investigation, ruling that the group can seek review in federal court over a state subpoena. The unanimous decision is a procedural win for First Choice Women’s Resource Centers, but it does not resolve the underlying dispute about the state’s investigation.

Mali says officers helped jihadis in attacks as fighting spreads

2026-05-02

Mali’s military-run government said late Friday that investigations found “solid evidence” some military officers collaborated with jihadis and separatists behind major attacks this week. Separately, the separatist Azawad Liberation Front said it captured a strategic military camp in the northern town of Tessalit after Mali’s army and its Russian allies withdrew. The attacks also followed reports that militants have blocked roads leading to Bamako, compounding a fuel blockade imposed late last year.

Trump endorses Rep. Andy Barr in Kentucky Senate race

2026-05-02

President Donald Trump endorsed Rep. Andy Barr in Kentucky’s Republican Senate primary on Friday, backing the congressman for the seat retiring Sen. Mitch McConnell is vacating. Barr is set to face former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron in the May 19 GOP contest, after Trump said he asked entrepreneur Nate Morris to step aside and join his administration.

King Charles III’s US state visit praised for deft handling of Trump

2026-05-02

King Charles III’s state visit to the United States drew praise for what U.K. and U.S. observers described as deft handling by the monarch despite tensions in Washington over Iran and other issues. President Donald Trump praised Charles after the four-day trip and said he was lifting tariffs on Scotch in honor of the king and Queen Camilla.

Trump rejects Iran’s latest proposal, still not satisfied to end war

2026-05-02

U.S. President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s latest proposal to end the war between the countries, telling reporters Friday at the White House that he was “not satisfied” and that it was delivered to mediators in Pakistan. The rejection came as a shaky three-week ceasefire appeared to be holding, even as both sides trade accusations of violations.

Trump tells Congress Iran war hostilities have “terminated”

2026-05-02

The White House told congressional leaders Friday that hostilities with Iran have “terminated,” a claim the administration said lets it avoid a May 1 War Powers Resolution deadline to seek approval for continued use of force. The letter, sent to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley, asserts the president’s deadline arguments despite the continuing presence of U.S. forces and an ongoing U.S. blockade connected to Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Restless Democratic voters challenge party establishment in Maine

2026-05-02

Maine’s Democratic Gov. Janet Mills ended her U.S. Senate campaign on Thursday after failing to raise enough money or generate enough enthusiasm to beat oyster farmer Graham Platner, according to The Associated Press. The surprise loss dealt a blow to Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, who had backed Mills in an effort to unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins. AP reports the setback reflects a broader strain of Democratic voter frustration with the party’s national establishment, even as confidence in a Democratic midterm “blue wave” has grown.

Louisiana suspends congressional primaries after Supreme Court Voting Rights ruling

2026-05-02

Louisiana suspended its U.S. House primaries Thursday as early voting was about to begin, after the Supreme Court ruling struck down a majority-Black congressional district and weakened protections under the Voting Rights Act. Republican Gov. Jeff Landry ordered the postponement of the House primary to allow lawmakers time to pass a new map.

Ex-Miami congressman convicted in secret Venezuela foreign lobbying case

2026-05-02

A former Miami congressman, David Rivera, was convicted Friday in a secret foreign lobbying case tied to Venezuela’s government during President Donald Trump’s first administration, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said. A federal jury found Rivera and an associate, Esther Nuhfer, guilty on charges including failing to register as foreign agents and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Judge Melissa Damian ordered Rivera taken into custody after finding he posed a flight risk.

Fact check: 4.3 million fewer SNAP recipients tied to new work rules

2026-05-02

The Agriculture Department said this month that fraud controls and a stronger economy helped drive a nearly 4.3 million drop in SNAP participation from January 2025 to January 2026. In an Associated Press fact check, experts said fraud is too small to explain the decline and pointed instead to changes in federal law that made SNAP harder to access, particularly for many able-bodied adults without dependents.

Supreme Court ruling stokes redistricting battle in several states

2026-05-02

The U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down a majority-Black congressional district in Louisiana has intensified redistricting fights in multiple states ahead of the Nov. midterms, Republican governors and legislatures said. Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee announced special sessions or moved congressional primaries as they try to adjust House maps or related elections. Courts have already weighed in on Louisiana’s congressional primary timing, while Georgia’s governor said new congressional maps cannot be changed for this year’s election.

US to withdraw about 5,000 troops from Germany in 6-12 months

2026-05-02

The Pentagon said the United States will withdraw about 5,000 troops from Germany within the next six to 12 months, a move President Donald Trump has threatened amid clashes with German leader Friedrich Merz over Washington’s war with Iran. The Pentagon said the decision followed a review of its force posture in Europe.

Trump administration appeals order blocking RFK Jr.’s cuts to childhood vaccines

2026-05-02

The Trump administration appealed a federal judge’s order Wednesday that halted Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s decision to end broad vaccination recommendations for children against influenza, rotavirus, hepatitis A and B, certain meningitis strains, and RSV. The one-sentence filing, submitted in Boston, offered no explanation for why the administration believes the block should be lifted, and U.S. health officials declined immediate comment.

Trump administration appeals order blocking vaccine recommendation rollback

2026-05-02

In an appeal filed Wednesday, the Trump administration asked a federal appeals court to overturn a judge’s order that blocked its effort to cut the vaccines recommended for most children in the United States. The move comes as a lawsuit by pediatric and other medical groups challenges changes made by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, including actions affecting the advisory panel that guides which vaccines are recommended.

Ghana rejects U.S. health deal over concerns about data access safeguards

2026-05-02

Ghana has rejected a proposed health deal with the United States after citing worries that U.S. entities would be able to access sensitive Ghanaian health data without adequate safeguards, an official said May 1. The executive director of Ghana’s Data Protection Commission said the requested access would have extended beyond typical needs and included metadata and reporting tools.

Federal judge extends Temporary Protected Status for ~3,000 Yemen refugees

2026-05-02

A federal judge in New York blocked the Trump administration from ending Temporary Protected Status for about 3,000 Yemeni refugees, ruling on Friday that TPS granted to them should be extended while a lawsuit proceeds. The judge, Dale E. Ho, said TPS repeatedly granted to Yemenis and due to expire Monday must be extended again because the United States had already determined the people could face threats if returned to a country still marked by ongoing armed conflict.

Who is Dr. Nicole Saphier, Trump’s new surgeon general pick?

2026-05-02

Dr. Nicole Saphier is President Donald Trump’s latest pick for the vacant role of U.S. surgeon general, a nomination that ended the Senate committee fight for his previous choice, Dr. Casey Means. Saphier is a radiologist and a former Fox News Channel contributor who has praised aspects of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda while also criticizing some Trump administration health missteps as “embarrassing.”

Turkish authorities detain 575 May Day demonstrators in Istanbul

2026-05-02

Turkish authorities detained at least 575 people who attempted to march in areas declared off-limits during International Workers’ Day celebrations in Istanbul on Friday, a day after the country’s top Constitutional Court ruled that lengthy detentions for similar protests in 2024 had violated the right to peaceful assembly.

Pentagon reaches AI deals with 7 tech companies for classified systems

2026-05-02

The Pentagon announced Friday that it has reached agreements with Google, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Nvidia, OpenAI, Reflection, and SpaceX to incorporate their artificial intelligence into its classified systems, which it said would help “augment warfighter decision-making in complex operational environments.” Anthropic, which is embroiled in a legal fight with the Trump administration over the ethics and safety of AI in warfare, was not among the companies that secured a deal.

Turkish authorities detain more than 500 May Day demonstrators in Istanbul

2026-05-02

Turkish authorities detained more than 500 people during May Day protests on Friday in Istanbul, as small groups attempted to march into areas the government had declared off-limits. Protests marking International Workers’ Day have repeatedly been marred by clashes with police, including at Taksim Square, which authorities have restricted on security grounds.

Pentagon signs deals with 7 firms to bring AI into classified networks

2026-05-02

The Pentagon said Friday it has reached deals with seven technology companies to use artificial intelligence in U.S. military classified computer networks, aiming to “augment warfighter decision-making in complex operational environments.” The companies named by the Defense Department include Google, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Nvidia, OpenAI, Reflection and SpaceX, while Anthropic was not included after a public dispute and legal fight with the Trump administration.

Confusion over South Dakota’s new voter ID rules complicates registration

2026-05-02

South Dakota county election officials are navigating uncertainty over new state voter ID rules that require proof of U.S. citizenship as part of voter registration ahead of the June 2 primary. Conflicting interpretations are emerging over whether a driver’s license must be shown in person or whether a photocopy is sufficient.

Federal Judge Extends Yemeni TPS, Rebukes Noem's 'Leeches' Remark

2026-05-02

A federal judge in Manhattan on Friday blocked the Trump administration from forcing roughly 3,000 Yemeni refugees to leave the U.S., ruling that the Department of Homeland Security failed to follow proper procedures when it ended their Temporary Protected Status. In a sharply worded opinion, U.S. District Judge Dale E. Ho criticized former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem for describing TPS holders as 'killers, leeches, and entitlement junkies' in a social media post.

Pope Leo names immigration advocate Menjivar-Ayala bishop of West Virginia diocese

2026-05-02

Pope Leo XIV appointed Auxiliary Bishop Evelio Menjivar-Ayala, an El Salvador-born advocate for immigrants and a critic of the Trump administration’s deportation policies, as the new bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston in West Virginia on Friday. Menjivar-Ayala, 55, fled El Salvador’s civil war as a teenager and entered the United States illegally in 1990 before gaining legal status and citizenship.

Former Congressman David Rivera Convicted in Secret Venezuela Lobbying Case

2026-05-02

A federal jury in Miami convicted former U.S. Representative David Rivera and political consultant Esther Nuhfer on all counts Friday for a clandestine $50 million lobbying campaign on behalf of Venezuela’s government, a case that drew testimony from Secretary of State Marco Rubio and exposed the underbelly of foreign influence operations in South Florida.

South Dakota counties interpret new voter ID rules differently as primary nears

2026-05-02

County auditors in South Dakota are interpreting new voter identification requirements inconsistently, with some requiring in-person presentation of a driver’s license and others accepting a photocopy, creating uncertainty for first-time registrants just weeks before the state’s June 2 primary election.

TikTok ‘Scientology speedrunning’ trend prompts church to remove door handles, bolster security

2026-05-02

A TikTok trend in which groups of young people, often in costume, rush into Church of Scientology properties in Hollywood has drawn law enforcement attention and prompted the church to remove exterior door handles and increase security. The Los Angeles Police Department has responded to multiple incidents in the past month, including one investigated as a potential hate crime, and a church official says one staff member was injured.

Louisiana GOP abolishes New Orleans criminal clerk seat won by exoneree

2026-05-02

Louisiana Republican Gov. Jeff Landry signed legislation Thursday abolishing the elected Orleans Parish criminal court clerk position, days before Calvin Duncan — a Democrat who spent nearly three decades in prison for a crime he did not commit — was set to take office after winning the seat with more than two-thirds of the vote in November.

King Charles III draws praise for deft diplomacy on US state visit

2026-05-02

King Charles III’s four-day state visit to the United States this week drew broad acclaim from historians and political observers who described it as a diplomatic master-class, mixing royal pageantry with veiled criticism of Trump administration policies and concluding with President Donald Trump himself lifting tariffs on Scotch whisky in the monarch’s honor.

Milei bars Argentine press corps from Casa Rosada, escalating anti-media campaign

2026-05-02

Argentine President Javier Milei last week expelled the entire accredited press corps from the Casa Rosada presidential palace, blocking roughly 60 reporters from the government headquarters in an escalation of a two-year campaign against independent media that has drawn condemnation from press freedom organizations, opposition lawmakers, and the Argentine Catholic Church. Milei's government described the ban, which took effect Thursday, as a "preventative measure" after a local television network filmed inside the Casa Rosada using smart glasses. The journalists involved said they had notified press officers of their filming plans in advance.

Army proposes 3-gigawatt data center at Fort Bliss, raising water and power questions

2026-05-02

The U.S. Army is proposing to develop a 3-gigawatt data center on Fort Bliss property in far East El Paso — a facility that would consume more electricity than all 460,000 of El Paso Electric's customers combined. Army officials briefed reporters on April 22 that the project, to be built and operated by private investment firm Carlyle Group, is part of a Trump administration push to accelerate military AI infrastructure. Key details about water use, grid connection, and air emissions remain unanswered.

5th Circuit blocks mailing of mifepristone, restricting abortion access

2026-05-02

A federal appeals court on Friday blocked the mailing of prescriptions for the abortion pill mifepristone, ruling that the drug must be dispensed only in person at clinics and not through telehealth or the mail. The unanimous decision by a three-judge panel of the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturns years of FDA regulations and marks the most significant court-imposed restriction on abortion since the Supreme Court ended the constitutional right to the procedure in 2022. The ruling is expected to quickly reach the U.S. Supreme Court. It affects every state—including those where abortion is legal—and could cut off mail-order access to the medication used in the majority of U.S. abortions.

FDA nominee Marty Makary faces questions on abortion pill safety

2026-05-02

President Donald Trump’s pick to lead the FDA, Dr. Marty Makary, was confirmed by the Senate late Tuesday, renewing debate over the abortion pill mifepristone and whether new federal rules could restrict access. In Senate health committee testimony, Makary faced repeated questions about what steps he would take, and he did not commit to specific action on the drug. Medical experts say mifepristone is among the safest medications approved by the FDA, while an anti-abortion group challenging the drug argues it has caused “tens of thousands” of emergency complications.

Air Force says Qatar-donated 747 will be ready as Trump’s Air Force One

2026-05-02

The U.S. Air Force has finished modifying and testing a Boeing 747 donated by Qatar for temporary use as Air Force One for President Donald Trump and expects it to be ready this summer, the service said. The jet is being painted red, white and blue, and Air Force officials said it will act as a “bridge” until new Boeing 747 aircraft are delivered, expected in 2028.

Trump DOJ task force report alleges anti-Christian bias under Biden

2026-05-02

The Justice Department task force created by President Donald Trump alleged in a new 200-page report that the Biden administration discriminated against Christians in areas including education, tax law and how it pursued anti-abortion protest cases. Progressive groups and Christian-right advocates criticized the report’s methodology and said it treats policy disagreements as persecution.

Viral “Scientology speedruns” raise security concerns in Hollywood

2026-05-02

A viral TikTok trend dubbed “Scientology speedruns” has prompted security concerns for the Church of Scientology in Hollywood, where participants have entered properties in attempts to quickly map out the organization’s buildings and operations. The Los Angeles Police Department said it has responded to multiple incidents in the past month, including one investigated as a potential hate crime.

Iran imprisons Nobel laureate Mohammadi moved to hospital after deterioration

2026-05-02

Iranian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi was urgently transferred from prison to a hospital in northwestern Iran after her foundation said her health suffered “catastrophic deterioration.” The foundation said she experienced episodes of complete loss of consciousness and a severe cardiac crisis, and it blamed “systematic medical neglect” since her Dec. 12 arrest.

Israeli police arrest man suspected of attacking nun near Jerusalem’s Old City

2026-05-02

Israeli police said they arrested a 36-year-old man suspected of attacking a nun near Jerusalem’s Old City, in an incident captured on video. Police said the suspect was taken into custody after the Wednesday attack near David’s Tomb, outside Zion’s Gate, and they described it as racially motivated. The arrest came amid ongoing scrutiny of treatment of religious minorities in Israel.

Tens of thousands in Havana mark May Day as Cuba’s power crunch endures

2026-05-02

Thousands of Cubans crowded along Havana’s seawall on May Day to celebrate electric and petroleum workers as the island’s power grid continues to deteriorate and outages remain widespread. Electric Union employees and Petroleum Union refinery and fuel workers described operating around the clock and relying on limited fuel amid a continuing gasoline shortage tied to the U.S. energy blockade.

Delta tunnel plan nears end of Newsom era, but hurdles remain

2026-05-02

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s last-year push for a $20 billion Delta tunnel cleared another step in state review, but major court, water-rights and financing questions still stand in the way of construction. The Delta Stewardship Council voted 6-1 to require the state Department of Water Resources to address two of the project’s proposed impacts and challenges, leaving opponents and some legal timelines unresolved.

Army proposes 3-gigawatt Fort Bliss AI data center, raising power and water questions

2026-05-02

The U.S. Army is proposing to develop a large data center complex on Fort Bliss in far east El Paso that officials say could reach about 3 gigawatts of electricity demand by 2029—levels that would exceed all power consumed by El Paso Electric’s 460,000 customers combined. The proposal also includes plans to coordinate with local water and power utilities, but questions remain about grid connections, water supply sources, and emissions, AP reported.

Milei blocks journalists from Casa Rosada, critics warn of press crackdown

2026-05-02

Argentina’s President Javier Milei blocked accredited reporters from entering the government’s headquarters at the Casa Rosada, drawing condemnation from press-freedom groups and lawmakers. Milei said on social media that journalists are “filthy scum” and shared an image depicting a reporter in an orange prison jumpsuit. Rights watchdogs and a Catholic Church statement denounced the move as an attack on freedom of expression.

Gaston Browne wins fourth term in snap election in Antigua and Barbuda

2026-05-02

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne won a fourth consecutive term after a snap election, the Associated Press reported, giving the governing Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party an electoral landslide. Official results released early Friday showed the ABLP winning 15 of the country’s 17 parliamentary seats, leaving the main opposition with a single seat.

Meta says it could shut down social media platforms in New Mexico

2026-05-02

Meta is raising the prospect of shutting down its social media services in New Mexico, including Instagram, as New Mexico prosecutors seek court-ordered changes aimed at protecting children. The filing came as the state prepares for a bench trial next week on allegations that Meta created a public nuisance by harming children’s mental health and by concealing what it knew about child sexual exploitation on its platforms.

Trump task force alleges anti-Christian discrimination under Biden administration

2026-05-02

A Justice Department task force created by President Donald Trump has issued a 200-page report alleging the Biden administration engaged in wide-ranging discrimination against Christians, citing conflicts over abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, education, and COVID-19 vaccine exemptions. Progressive groups, religious-liberty advocates, and a former Biden faith-outreach official sharply criticized the report, calling it advocacy dressed as investigation that conflates policy disagreements with persecution.

Trump Signs DHS Funding Bill, Ending Record Shutdown

2026-05-01

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump signed bipartisan legislation Thursday funding much of the Department of Homeland Security, ending the longest agency shutdown in U.S. history. The bill, passed earlier by the House in a voice vote, leaves the department’s immigration enforcement arms — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol — without dedicated funding, the very dispute that triggered the 75-day stalemate.

Trump signs Homeland Security funding bill, ends record shutdown over ICE pay

2026-05-01

President Donald Trump signed legislation Thursday to fund much of the Department of Homeland Security, ending the longest government shutdown on record after weeks of negotiations. The bill provides Homeland Security funding but leaves out immigration enforcement operations, setting up a separate budget process for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Border Patrol.

Supreme Court ruling threatens to slash Black Caucus representation

2026-05-01

The Supreme Court on Wednesday gutted a key provision of the Voting Rights Act that protected minority communities from discriminatory redistricting, a decision that threatens to sharply reduce the number of Black members of Congress and reshape U.S. House elections for years to come.

Senate bans members and staff from betting on prediction markets

2026-05-01

The U.S. Senate unanimously voted Thursday to prohibit its members and their staffs from placing bets on prediction markets, a rule change that took effect immediately in response to mounting concerns over the use of nonpublic information for financial gain.

Hegseth defends Iran war, $25 billion cost in first congressional hearings

2026-05-01

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the Trump administration’s Iran war strategy and a record $1.5 trillion military budget request in his first Capitol Hill testimony since the conflict began, clashing with Democrats who decried the $25 billion cost, the deaths of 165 people — including children — at a bombed school, and the firing of the Army’s top general.

Senate bans its members and staff from betting in prediction markets

2026-05-01

The Senate has approved a bipartisan resolution banning senators and their staff from placing bets on prediction markets, with the rules change taking effect immediately. Sponsors and lawmakers said the measure is meant to prevent members with access to sensitive information from using it for wagers on major events.

Trump withdraws Casey Means’ surgeon general nomination, taps Nicole Saphier

2026-05-01

In a Thursday announcement, President Donald Trump said he is nominating radiologist Dr. Nicole Saphier for surgeon general after Dr. Casey Means’ nomination stalled in the Senate. Trump said Saphier is “a STAR physician” in a social media post, while Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. praised her as a “warrior for the MAHA movement.”

Trump lifts Scotch whisky tariffs after King Charles's White House visit

2026-05-01

President Donald Trump said Thursday he is removing certain tariffs on Scotch whisky following a White House visit by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, though the scope and mechanics of the change remained unclear after the administration declined to clarify the president's social-media announcement.

Trump says he is lifting some tariffs on Scotch whisky after UK visit

2026-05-01

President Donald Trump said Thursday he is removing certain tariffs on Scotch whisky following a White House visit by King Charles III and Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom. In a post on social media, Trump said the meeting prompted action, but it was not immediately clear whether the changes apply to finished Scotch bottles or to production inputs such as barrels.

Congress approves short-term FISA surveillance extension through June 12

2026-05-01

Congress on Thursday approved a short-term extension of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act provision that lets spy agencies collect communications from foreign targets without a warrant, pushing off its Friday expiration while broader negotiations continue. The House sent the measure to President Donald Trump after the Senate cleared it earlier in the day, with the temporary authorization set to run through June 12.

Kurdish militant commander says peace process frozen, contradicting Erdogan

2026-05-01

A top commander of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) said Thursday that Turkey’s peace initiative with Kurdish militants has been 'frozen,' accusing Ankara of failing to enact promised legal and political reforms. The assessment by PKK co-founder Murat Karayilan directly contradicts Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who told lawmakers a day earlier that the process was moving in a positive atmosphere.

Israel, Germany condemn Peru leader's claim that Jews pushed Germany into WWII

2026-05-01

Peru's interim president José María Balcázar claimed that Jews controlled German commerce, banking, and the practice of usury and pushed Germany into World War II — remarks that drew swift condemnation from the Israeli and German embassies, which called the assertion "absurd" and "historically unsustainable" in a rare joint statement Wednesday.

Royal surge: Dutch military sees volunteer boom as Europe rethinks NATO defense

2026-05-01

The Netherlands is experiencing a surge in military volunteers, propelled in part by the high-profile enlistment of Queen Maxima and Crown Princess Amalia as reservists, as European nations scramble to strengthen their armed forces amid Russia's war in Ukraine and growing doubts about U.S. commitment to NATO.

Israeli mass evacuation warnings upend life in southern Lebanon

2026-05-01

Israel has issued sweeping evacuation warnings covering large parts of southern Lebanon since the war with Hezbollah erupted on March 2, displacing over a million people and drawing accusations that the military is using the alerts as a tool of forced displacement. The orders — delivered by text, phone call, social media, and leaflets — have emptied entire villages and sent families fleeing in panic, often with little notice and no safe destination.

Iran's supreme leader vows to protect nuclear, missile programs amid US blockade

2026-05-01

Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, vowed Thursday to protect the country’s nuclear and missile capabilities, in his first public statement since succeeding his father, and declared that Americans belong only “at the bottom” of the Persian Gulf. The remarks, read on state television, signaled that Iran will not trade away its nuclear or ballistic missile programs as part of any ceasefire deal, and that Tehran intends to maintain its blockade-like control of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s crude oil usually passes.

Congress extends warrantless foreign surveillance program until June 12

2026-05-01

WASHINGTON — The Senate and House on Thursday approved a short-term extension of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act’s warrantless surveillance powers, pushing the program’s expiration to June 12 and averting a midnight lapse. The extension, which now goes to President Donald Trump’s desk, gives Congress six more weeks to negotiate a permanent reauthorization after months of deadlock over privacy protections and a divisive cryptocurrency provision. The move came hours after the House passed a full three-year reauthorization, but that version included a ban on central bank digital currencies — a measure that Senate leaders said they could not process, forcing the temporary patch.

Florida Republicans pass new congressional map likely to hurt Democrats

2026-05-01

The Republican-controlled Florida Legislature approved a new congressional map this week, and analysts from both parties say it could cost Democrats up to four U.S. House seats in November. The plan, signed into law after Gov. Ron DeSantis said it would reflect population growth and political leanings, redraws districts using “packing and cracking,” Democrats say, in a way they call a power grab by President Donald Trump.

Kurdish militants say Turkey has frozen peace talks with PKK

2026-05-01

Kurdish militant officials said Turkey has stalled a peace initiative aimed at ending decades of conflict with the PKK, contradicting optimistic statements from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The officials cited what they described as a lack of legal and political reforms, a missed April deadline for legislation, and continued actions they say undermine the process.

Hegseth clashes with Democrats over Iran war costs and civilian deaths

2026-05-01

Pete Hegseth faced tough questions from Democratic lawmakers during House and Senate Armed Services committee hearings this week over the Trump administration’s Iran war and its military spending request. Democrats pressed him on ballooning costs, depleted U.S. munitions, and a Feb. 28 strike on an Iranian elementary school that killed more than 165 people, while Hegseth said the Pentagon is committed to preventing civilian deaths.

Brazil lawmakers override veto to reduce Bolsonaro’s 27-year prison term

2026-05-01

Brazil’s Congress voted to override President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s veto and adopt a bill that would reduce former President Jair Bolsonaro’s 27-year prison sentence for plotting a coup. The bill, approved Thursday, also draws legal challenges and is expected to face scrutiny at Brazil’s Supreme Court.

Iran’s supreme leader vows to protect nuclear and missile capabilities

2026-05-01

Iran’s supreme leader said in remarks read on state television that the country will protect its nuclear and missile capabilities, as the U.S. maintains a blockade tied to its efforts to ease tensions in the Persian Gulf. The comments by Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei came as a U.S. State Department cable called for allies to help build a “maritime freedom construct” for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Israeli evacuation warnings in Lebanon spark chaos amid war with Hezbollah

2026-05-01

Israel’s evacuation warnings to residents in southern Lebanon have triggered mass departures and confusion, with some areas receiving detailed or late-night alerts while strikes still hit without warning, the Associated Press reported. The warnings have also coincided with fighting that has continued despite a nominal ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. AP reported that at the peak of the conflict, more than a million people fled, and that UN officials said over 115,000 were sheltering in collective shelters.

Netherlands boosts reservists with royal recruitment as Europe expands forces

2026-05-01

Their faces painted with camouflage, reservists in eastern Netherlands trained over a weekend as the Dutch government pushes to grow its force of volunteers and reservists. The effort is drawing extra attention after Queen Maxima and her eldest daughter, Amalia, Princess of Orange, enrolled as volunteer reservists, prompting officials to step up recruiting, training and equipping.

Voting rights ruling puts Black caucus on edge as districts could be redrawn

2026-05-01

Black members of Congress and civil-rights advocates said a Supreme Court ruling gutting a key section of the Voting Rights Act would open the way for Republican-led states to redraw congressional districts without regard to race. In response to the decision on Wednesday, lawmakers including Rep. Yvette Clarke warned the change could reduce minority representation, while others said voter mobilization and court challenges are needed.

Trump administration defers $91 million more in Minnesota Medicaid funding, citing fraud concerns

2026-05-01

The Trump administration notified Minnesota on Thursday that it is deferring an additional $91 million in Medicaid payments, deepening a funding dispute that has pitted the Democratic-led state against Washington over fraud in state-run social service programs. The announcement from Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, followed searches by federal agents earlier in the week at child-care and learning centers in the Twin Cities that receive federal Medicaid dollars.

Trump administration delays more Medicaid funding for Minnesota over fraud fears

2026-05-01

The Trump administration on Thursday notified Minnesota that it is deferring an additional $91 million in Medicaid funding, citing new concerns about fraud vulnerabilities in state-run programs funded by the federal government. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz said the review followed searches by federal agents at childcare and learning centers and other sites in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Gov. Tim Walz said the action is part of a retribution campaign against Minnesota.

San Diego County proposes $2.75 million arts program amid federal and city cuts

2026-05-01

San Diego County supervisors on Wednesday announced a proposal to spend up to $2.75 million on a new county-wide arts and culture initiative, the first such public investment in the county’s history, as the city of San Diego and the federal government slash arts funding. The plan, spearheaded by Board Chair Terra Lawson-Remer and Vice Chair Monica Montgomery Steppe, would allocate $1 million in grants for individual artists in underserved areas, support for the Black Arts and Culture District, and other programs.

Trump order launches retirement plan comparison website ahead of Saver’s Match

2026-05-01

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday directing the Treasury Department to launch TrumpIRA.gov, a website where workers without employer-sponsored retirement plans can compare private-sector retirement accounts. The order aims to give roughly 50 million Americans access to a retirement savings vehicle ahead of next year’s launch of the federal Saver’s Match program, which will provide up to $1,000 in matching contributions for lower-income workers.

Reeves creates Mississippi office to oversee $206M in federal rural health funds

2026-05-01

Gov. Tate Reeves announced the creation of a new state office to administer more than $200 million in federal rural health transformation funds, unveiling a website he said would provide transparency on the initiative’s spending and progress. The Republican governor named certified public accountant Richard Grimes to lead the office, which will be overseen by the governor’s own staff, according to a Wednesday press release.

ICE releases Makoka brothers after Mississippi senators, community push for return

2026-05-01

Israel and Max Makoka, teenage brothers from the Republic of Congo, were released from U.S. immigration custody on April 29 after eight days in detention separated across Louisiana and Texas, returning to their host parents in Diamondhead, Mississippi. The brothers fell out of status on their F-1 student visas after transferring schools without notifying immigration authorities, but their detention ignited a rapid political and community response — including intervention from Mississippi's two U.S. senators — that secured their freedom.

Sudanese migrant boat capsizes off Libya, leaving at least 17 dead

2026-05-01

At least 17 Sudanese migrants died and nine remain missing after their boat capsized in the Mediterranean Sea near Tobruk, Libya, United Nations officials reported Thursday. The U.N. refugee agency said only seven of the 33 people on board survived the shipwreck.

Media organizations urge Israel to lift ban on independent Gaza reporting

2026-05-01

The leaders of major media companies, including The Associated Press, on Thursday called on Israel to lift a ban keeping foreign journalists from independently reporting from Gaza, a barrier that has remained in place since the war began in 2023 and persists despite a ceasefire now in its seventh month.

FEMA reinstates 14 workers suspended over public dissent letter

2026-05-01

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has reinstated the 14 employees who were placed on indefinite paid leave eight months ago after they signed a public letter that warned the agency was unprepared for disasters under Trump administration policies, ending a suspension that the workers and their supporters called retaliation for protected whistleblowing.

San Diego County to launch arts grants as city, federal funding shrink

2026-05-01

San Diego County supervisors said they plan to spend up to $2.75 million in the first year on arts and culture grants and programs, as the city and the federal government cut back funding. The proposal would allocate $2.25 million annually for multiple arts initiatives serving the county’s 3.3 million residents, with supervisors voting on Tuesday, May 5.

Israel y Alemania califican de “absurda” afirmación de Balcázar sobre el Holocausto

2026-05-01

Las embajadas de Israel y Alemania en Perú calificaron de “absurda” una afirmación del presidente interino del país, José María Balcázar, quien dijo que los judíos empujaron a Alemania hacia la Segunda Guerra Mundial por controlar el comercio, la banca y la usura. En un comunicado conjunto, ambas misiones afirmaron que Hitler y los nazis iniciaron la guerra al atacar Polonia en 1939 y llamaron a retractarse.

Trump backs Iraq’s prime minister pick after call and Washington invite

2026-05-01

U.S. President Donald Trump called Iraq’s prime minister-designate, Ali al-Zaidi, and invited him to Washington after he forms a government, the Iraqi prime minister’s office said Thursday. Trump also congratulated al-Zaidi in a post on Truth Social, saying he wished him “success” as he works to form a government “free from terrorism.”

Media leaders ask Israel to lift ban on independent Gaza reporting

2026-05-01

Media company leaders, including The Associated Press, on Thursday urged Israel to lift a ban that prevents foreign journalists from entering and reporting independently from Gaza. The executives said being on the ground is essential for journalists to verify accounts, speak directly with civilians and report what they witness firsthand.

FEMA reinstates employees who signed dissent letter after 8 months

2026-05-01

Federal Emergency Management Agency employees who signed a public dissent letter last August were told they would return to work after eight months on paid administrative leave, according to two FEMA staff members. The reinstatement comes as FEMA leadership also moves to extend contracts for some term-limited disaster workers ahead of the 2026 hurricane season and other national events.

Israel and Max Makoka return home after ICE detention in Mississippi

2026-05-01

Israel and Max Makoka were reunited with their guardians after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained the brothers in Mississippi last month, according to a statement attributed to the Department of Homeland Security. The siblings, who say they came to the United States legally as students, are now back with host parents in Diamondhead, Mississippi, while legal efforts continue to keep them in the country.

New Trump order targets access to retirement savings plans and Saver’s Match

2026-05-01

President Donald Trump signed an executive order that directs the Treasury Department to launch TrumpIRA.gov, a new website intended to help workers compare private-sector retirement savings accounts. The order seeks to connect millions of employees—many without employer-sponsored plans—to accounts eligible for the federal Saver’s Match program starting next year.

Ohio county referendum tests power of local bans on solar

2026-05-01

The solar-power ban in Richland County, Ohio, is headed to a May 5 referendum after supporters collected enough signatures to put the measure on the ballot. The county’s commissioners approved the ban last year under a 2021 Ohio law that allows local officials to block certain utility-scale wind and solar projects. Opponents of the ban and supporters of it are framing the vote differently—property rights and government overreach on one side, and farmland preservation on the other.

The Onion’s bid to take over Infowars put on hold as courts weigh transfer

2026-05-01

The Onion’s proposed deal to temporarily take control of Infowars, Alex Jones’ conspiracy media platform, remained in legal limbo Thursday after a Texas appeals court paused the transfer of Infowars assets, according to court proceedings reported by The Associated Press. A hearing that had been set for Austin, Texas, was pushed into a May 28 date, while Jones’ lawyers argued the deal should not proceed during pending litigation. The dispute unfolds as Infowars faces liquidation over more than $1 billion in defamation judgments that Jones owes relatives of victims of the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.

Transgender Idaho residents sue over strict new bathroom ban

2026-05-01

Six transgender Idaho residents are suing the state in federal court, seeking to overturn a strict new law that bars people from using bathrooms, locker rooms or changing areas that do not match their sex assigned at birth. The law, set to take effect in July, carries misdemeanor penalties for first-time violations and felony exposure for repeat offenses.

Senate Banking advances Kevin Warsh to lead Fed, on 13-11 party-line vote

2026-04-30

The Senate Banking Committee voted on party lines Wednesday to approve President Donald Trump’s pick, Kevin Warsh, as the next chair of the Federal Reserve, replacing Jerome Powell. The panel’s 13-11 vote sets up the next steps for Warsh’s nomination as Powell presides over what will likely be his final Federal Open Market Committee meeting.

Man accused in Trump hotel assault took knife selfie, investigators say

2026-04-30

A man charged in an alleged attempt to kill President Donald Trump before the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner took a photo of himself with a knife in his hotel room shortly before moving toward the event, prosecutors said in a court filing. Investigators said Cole Allen wore a shoulder gun holster and had an ammunition bag as he tried to reach the ballroom area near the Washington Hilton. Trump was uninjured, and a Secret Service officer wearing a bullet-resistant vest was shot and survived.

Hegseth faces withering Iran questions in first Congress appearance

2026-04-30

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced hours of questioning on Wednesday from skeptical Democrats in his first congressional appearance since the Trump administration began its war against Iran. Democrats pressed him and Gen. Dan Caine on the conflict’s rising costs, U.S. munitions drawdowns, and the decision to bomb a school that killed children, while Republicans defended the operation amid ongoing fighting in the Strait of Hormuz.

Income tax repeal to get rare test with Missouri voters

2026-04-30

Voters in Missouri will decide whether to eliminate the state’s individual income tax in a ballot measure set to appear in November, the first time in more than a century that lawmakers have asked voters to end the tax. The proposal also would authorize a sales tax expansion through changes to which goods and services can be taxed.

House approves bill to extend FISA surveillance program for three years

2026-04-30

The Republican-controlled U.S. House on Wednesday approved a three-year extension of a foreign intelligence surveillance program that critics say falls short of warrant requirements for spying on communications. The measure passed 235-191 with support from Democrats, but its renewal still faces uncertainty in the Senate and with President Donald Trump.

Brazil’s Senate rejects Lula’s Supreme Court nominee Jorge Messias

2026-04-30

Brazil’s Senate voted Wednesday to reject President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s nomination of Jorge Messias to the Supreme Court, a setback for Lula ahead of his October re-election bid. The Senate vote was the first rejection of a Supreme Court nominee in more than 130 years, according to the Associated Press. Only 34 senators voted to approve Messias, while 42 rejected him.

Powell to remain on Fed board after chair term ends, blocking Trump pick

2026-04-30

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said Wednesday he plans to stay on the Fed’s board after his term as chair ends next month, warning that legal challenges pursued by the Trump administration are threatening the central bank’s independence. In remarks after the Fed announced it would keep its benchmark interest rate unchanged, Powell said he has been assured by the Justice Department that an appeal of subpoenas will not lead to a reopening of a probe unless the Fed’s inspector general finds evidence of criminal activity.

New Florida congressional map could cost Democrats up to four seats

2026-04-30

Florida Republicans passed a new congressional map this week, and Democrats warned it could cost them as many as four U.S. House seats in the midterms. Gov. Ron DeSantis said the redistricting reflects the state’s population growth and political leanings, while Democrats called it a power grab. The new lines use “packing and cracking,” Republicans’ approach to reshaping districts in ways that can shift election outcomes.

States move to respond after Supreme Court ruling limits race in redistricting

2026-04-30

Hours after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a Louisiana congressional map that relied on race, several states moved to adjust their redistricting plans for the 2026 midterms. Florida and Mississippi announced rapid legislative responses, while Louisiana’s lawmakers weighed timing issues before primaries begin. Other states, including Alabama, Tennessee, and Illinois, signaled that litigation schedules and constitutional changes could shape whether maps change this year.

Trump says he is weighing reducing U.S. troops in Germany amid Iran feud

2026-04-30

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he is studying and reviewing whether to reduce U.S. troop presence in Germany, escalating a public dispute with Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The remarks followed Merz’s criticism of Washington over the Iran war and were made as the Strait of Hormuz has remained closed since Feb. 28.

Louisiana Supreme Court to weigh legality of Orleans jail “sanctuary” policy

2026-04-30

Louisiana’s Supreme Court is weighing whether Act 314 of 2024 can override a long-standing Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office policy that generally refuses to hold people in the Orleans jail at the request of federal immigration authorities. Civil rights lawyers defended the policy during arguments April 28, while state attorneys argued it violates the 2024 law aimed at so-called “sanctuary cities.”

Canada selected as headquarters for NATO-linked Defense Bank

2026-04-30

Canada will serve as the headquarters for a new NATO-linked financial institution designed to help alliance members meet defense spending commitments and reduce borrowing costs, a senior government official said Wednesday. The official spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity ahead of an official announcement. Ontario Premier Doug Ford called for the bank to be headquartered in Toronto, while Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government has said Canada will meet NATO’s defense spending guideline.

Justice Department moves to roll back gun regulations tied to ATF

2026-04-30

The U.S. Justice Department said it moved Wednesday to roll back and modify gun regulations, in a shift in federal firearm policy as Senate-confirmed ATF chief Robert Cekada takes charge. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the changes are designed to align regulations with Supreme Court precedent and reduce burdens on firearms sellers and lawful gun owners. Gun control advocates criticized the move as dangerous, citing the recent gunfire at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

Supreme Court weighs Trump bid to end protections for Haitian, Syrian TPS

2026-04-30

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday heard arguments in a case challenging the Trump administration’s push to end Temporary Protected Status protections for migrants from Haiti and Syria. The court appeared to confront questions about how much authority judges have to review the Trump administration’s steps to terminate the program, and whether justices will rely on prior precedent.

Florida legislature approves GOP-leaning U.S. House map amid redistricting court fight

2026-04-30

Florida’s legislature on April 29 approved a new congressional map aimed at maximizing Republicans’ advantage in midterm elections, after Gov. Ron DeSantis unveiled the proposal two days earlier. The vote came the same day the U.S. Supreme Court rolled back a key Voting Rights Act provision, a decision Democrats said could make it harder to challenge the plan.

Groups urge judge to block Kennedy Center renovations by July 6

2026-04-30

A coalition of cultural and historic preservation organizations asked a federal judge to stop President Donald Trump from proceeding with major renovations to the Kennedy Center ahead of a July 6 start date. The groups urged U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper to issue a preliminary injunction, arguing the changes could violate historic preservation rules.

Janet Mills faces Graham Platner in Maine Democratic Senate primary

2026-04-30

Janet Mills is campaigning for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in Maine against Graham Platner in a June 9 primary, framing herself as the strongest choice to defeat longtime Republican Sen. Susan Collins. Mills, 78, is urging voters to look beyond their preference for “new faces,” while Platner, 41, has drawn larger crowds and more money since entering the race last summer.

King Charles III tells Congress UK-US ties are ‘interlinked’ in speech

2026-04-30

King Charles III delivered a speech to a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress on April 29, extolling ties between the United Kingdom and the United States as the two countries marked the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In a wide-ranging address, he cited shared democratic roots, invoked historical moments including Magna Carta and 9/11, and urged unity around international security and cooperation.

Supreme Court ruling to reshape voting maps as primaries near

2026-04-30

The U.S. Supreme Court’s conservative majority on Wednesday issued a 6-3 ruling that largely removed the Voting Rights Act requirement that districts be drawn to give minority voters a chance to elect representatives of their choosing. With congressional and statehouse mapmaking deadlines already passing in parts of the country, Republicans are urging faster changes as candidates and voters move through primaries.

Supreme Court weakens Voting Rights Act Section 2 in Louisiana case

2026-04-30

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday struck down a majority-Black congressional district in Louisiana under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, saying it relied too heavily on race. The 6-3 ruling could reshape redistricting nationwide and may affect efforts by Republicans to keep control of the House, with impacts potentially felt more strongly in 2028.

Trump pays offshore wind operators to walk away; Democrats call it a scam

2026-04-30

Democrats in Congress have launched an investigation into a Trump administration plan to reimburse offshore wind lease fees after energy companies agree to end projects, according to an AP report. The effort includes deals announced Monday for Bluepoint Wind and Golden State Wind and a separate agreement involving TotalEnergies, Democrats said. Lawmakers say the arrangements appear to be unlawful and urged company executives not to accept the money.

Who was invited to dinner with King Charles: courts, tech CEOs and Palm Beach friends

2026-04-30

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump hosted King Charles III and Queen Camilla at a white-tie state dinner at the White House on Tuesday evening, with nearly 130 guests in attendance, according to the Associated Press. AP reported that the guest list drew heavily from business leaders, technology executives and friends from Palm Beach, Florida, along with lawmakers and prominent media figures.

Hawaii governor blasts auditor’s interim report on homeless tiny homes

2026-04-30

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green on April 29 blasted a preliminary report from the state auditor that is examining his administration’s homeless “kauhale” tiny homes initiative, accusing the auditor of being overly aggressive and unwilling to help. Green said Hawaiʻi lawmakers had funded the sprawling project for 2026 and 2027 but also required the audit, which followed reporting that found the state lacked receipts and other documentation for some uses of public money.

Raw milk backers push for wider availability despite outbreak risks

2026-04-30

Raw milk backers are pressing to make unpasteurized milk easier to buy and sell across the United States, even as new illness outbreaks linked to raw products continue to make headlines. Health officials and scientists have warned that raw milk can carry germs that cause serious disease, and one recent outbreak tied to raw milk cheddar cheese sickened nine people, including children.

US unseals indictment charging Sinaloa governor and officials with drug trafficking

2026-04-30

The U.S. on Wednesday unsealed a federal indictment in Manhattan charging the governor of Mexico’s Sinaloa state, Rubén Rocha Moya, and nine other current and former Mexican officials with drug trafficking and weapons offenses. Prosecutors accused the group of helping mass narcotics importation into the United States, and said some of the defendants shielded cartel leaders from enforcement in exchange for millions of dollars in drug proceeds.

San Francisco and Oakland settle airport name dispute over wording

2026-04-30

San Francisco and Oakland have settled a two-year legal fight that will let Oakland use “San Francisco” in its airport name, with restrictions on how the words are displayed. The settlement announced April 28 ends litigation sparked in 2024 after Oakland changed its airport name, prompting San Francisco to argue it violated trademark rights.

Trump’s picture will appear on commemorative passports for U.S. 250th

2026-04-30

The U.S. State Department said it is preparing a limited release of commemorative U.S. passports for the country’s 250th birthday that will feature President Donald Trump’s picture. State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said the passports would be available at the Washington, D.C., passport office in the run-up to July 4.

Minnesota family indicted after clash with Turning Point USA journalist

2026-04-30

The federal government unsealed an indictment alleging that three family members assaulted a journalist who writes for a conservative organization during a protest against immigration enforcement in Minnesota. The indictment says Christopher and DeYanna Ostroushko and their daughter, Paige, each face a federal assault count, and it also charges Christopher and Paige with interfering with a federally protected activity.

Most Americans try to avoid news about Trump, new poll finds

2026-04-30

WASHINGTON — A new survey finds many U.S. adults say they try to avoid news stories about former President Donald Trump, with Democrats especially likely to report cutting back on such coverage. The Media Insight Project poll, conducted earlier this month, also finds partisan differences in whether people view the news they consume as hopeful and in how Americans assign responsibility for misinformation.

EPA and conservation groups challenge Wyoming’s “impaired” water sample limits

2026-04-30

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and conservation groups are urging Wyoming’s Department of Environmental Quality to revise a proposed policy that limits who can submit water samples used to decide whether waters are “impaired” under the Clean Water Act. Wyoming’s draft methods say data used for “use support determinations” must come from people employed by or under contract with a governmental entity, a restriction state officials say has been in place since 2020. In letters and public comments, advocates argue the rule conflicts with EPA guidance requiring states to use “existing and readily available” water-quality data.

Fraud probes in Minnesota continue as federal agents raid child programs

2026-04-30

Federal agents carried out a new round of searches in Minnesota on Tuesday, seizing records tied to fraud investigations involving social programs for children, according to the Associated Press. The raids come amid an earlier Medicaid and child-nutrition scandal that prosecutors have described as involving hundreds of defendants and potentially billions in wasted federal funds.

Pro-Russian activist Kémi Séba wanted in Benin appears in South Africa

2026-04-30

Kémi Séba, a pro-Russian Beninese activist wanted in his home country for “inciting rebellion,” appeared in a South African court on separate charges, including allegations he tried to illegally leave South Africa. The case came as Benin seeks his extradition after a failed coup attempt last December.

Quiz tests knowledge of famous Americans tied to U.S. 250 celebrations

2026-04-30

The Associated Press published a new quiz asking readers how well they know a set of famous Americans tied to the U.S. 250 anniversary. The questions include figures such as Ronald Reagan, Hank Aaron, Harvey Milk and Pope Leo XIV, and AP said the quiz is meant as a test of knowledge ahead of the 250th-year milestone.

Raw milk and state laws: AP report shows push for wider access

2026-04-30

Backers of raw milk are pushing for wider availability through state legislation and other distribution models, even as a recent outbreak tied to raw milk cheddar cheese from California-based Raw Farm sickens children, the Associated Press reported. AP found more than three dozen raw-milk bills introduced in 18 states, with additional national proposals moving through Congress. Public health officials and researchers warn that unpasteurized milk can carry germs such as campylobacter and E. coli, and that children are especially vulnerable.

Thailand ex-PM Thaksin set for release next month after parole

2026-04-30

Bangkok’s Corrections Department said Thursday that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will be released from Klong Prem Central Prison on May 11 after a Justice Ministry panel granted him parole. The decision comes as Thaksin completes the legally required minimum of two-thirds of his one-year sentence.

The Onion seeks to take over Infowars as Alex Jones appeals court fight

2026-04-30

The Onion is asking a Texas judge to approve its proposed takeover of Alex Jones’ Infowars platforms, a move Jones is trying to block through last-minute appeals in state and federal courts. The hearing comes as Jones faces legal fights tied to more than $1 billion he owes Sandy Hook shooting victims’ relatives after he falsely portrayed the 2012 massacre as a hoax.

King Charles meets Trump and urges U.S. leaders to stay engaged globally

2026-04-29

King Charles III marked the 250th anniversary of American independence in a Tuesday address to a joint session of Congress, praising the U.S.-U.K. alliance while warning that leaders should not retreat from global engagement. Speaking during a four-day U.S. visit meant to celebrate the anniversary and mend relations, he urged U.S. support for Ukraine, backed NATO’s role, and urged reflection as U.S. regulations are rolled back on climate change.

U.S. soldier charged with using intel to win $400K on Maduro raid

2026-04-29

A U.S. special forces soldier pleaded not guilty in Manhattan federal court to charges that he used classified information about a mission to capture former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to win more than $400,000 on the prediction market Polymarket. Gannon Ken Van Dyke, 38, was released on $250,000 bail and ordered to return for a pretrial conference June 8.

Federal agents execute Minnesota searches in child-program fraud probe

2026-04-29

Federal agents executed multiple searches in Minnesota on Tuesday, seizing records and other evidence in an ongoing fraud investigation tied to publicly funded social programs for children, authorities said. The searches occurred months after a right-wing influencer posted a video claiming Minnesota’s Somali community was running fake childcare centers to collect federal subsidies, a claim inspectors said was inaccurate. Democratic Gov. Tim Walz welcomed the raids, saying agencies “catch criminals” when state and federal officials share information.

Fed transition: Powell signals next steps as Warsh confirmation looms

2026-04-29

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is expected to use Wednesday’s news conference to indicate whether he will remain a governor after his chair term ends May 15, as Senate action on President Donald Trump’s nominee Kevin Warsh also heads toward a vote. The leadership uncertainty comes as the Fed weighs a slowing job market against inflation that has risen, amid gas-price pressures tied to the Iran war.

Senate rejects bid to require Trump approval to escalate in Cuba

2026-04-29

The U.S. Senate on Tuesday rejected Democratic legislation that would have required President Donald Trump to obtain congressional approval before ending the U.S. energy blockade against Cuba unless lawmakers agreed otherwise. Republicans voted to dismiss the war powers resolution, arguing the United States is not in “out of outright hostilities” with Cuba, delivering a 51-47 tally.

National Trust will still sue over Trump’s $400M White House ballroom

2026-04-29

WASHINGTON — Preservationists plan to press ahead with their lawsuit seeking to block President Donald Trump’s planned $400 million White House ballroom after the Department of Justice asked them to withdraw the case following the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday, the National Trust for Historic Preservation said. Trust attorney Gregory Craig told the Justice Department that the legal issues at the heart of the dispute remain unchanged, even as the government said it would seek dismissal if the Trust did not voluntarily drop its complaint.

Trump seeks new import taxes after Supreme Court tariff rejection

2026-04-29

WASHINGTON (AP) — After the Supreme Court rejected President Donald Trump’s global tariff plan in February, his administration has begun hearings this week that could lead to a new round of durable import taxes under a different legal authority. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative is conducting two investigations—one targeting products tied to forced labor and another focused on whether some countries are overproducing goods.

Supreme Court appears set to let Cisco seek dismissal of Falun Gong case

2026-04-29

The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday appeared likely to grant Cisco’s bid to shut down a lawsuit brought by Falun Gong over alleged U.S.-based technology used to persecute the spiritual movement in China. Justices questioned how broadly the court should rule on Cisco’s liability and whether lower courts have allowed too many similar cases to proceed. A decision is expected late June.

Florida redistricting fight puts DeSantis back in Republican spotlight

2026-04-29

Ron DeSantis called a special legislative session in Florida focused on redistricting and other issues, stepping back into national Republican politics as midterm elections near. At Tuesday’s start of the session, however, House Speaker Daniel Perez declined to advance DeSantis-backed proposals on artificial intelligence and vaccine requirements.

Pennsylvania high court rules cast vote records are public records

2026-04-29

Pennsylvania’s Supreme Court ruled April 28 that “cast vote records” from the 2020 presidential election in Lycoming County are public records. The decision allows access to spreadsheets of raw ballot data tied to each ballot, while the court said the ruling preserves the state constitution’s requirement that votes remain secret.

Methodist megachurch pastor Adam Hamilton launches Kansas Senate bid

2026-04-29

The Rev. Adam Hamilton, pastor of the largest United Methodist Church in the U.S., launched a campaign Thursday for the Democratic nomination for a U.S. Senate seat in Kansas, entering a race that Republicans have dominated. The Johnson County pastor will face incumbent Republican Roger Marshall, who aligned closely with President Donald Trump in his 2020 Senate run.

Germany weighs Trump troop-reduction threat as NATO allies brace

2026-04-29

U.S. President Donald Trump again threatened to pull American troops out of Germany, a key NATO ally and the European Union’s largest economy, after comments by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. In social media posts on Wednesday and Thursday, Trump said the U.S. was reviewing possible reductions, with a “determination” to follow soon, and advised Merz to focus on ending Russia’s war in Ukraine and fixing Germany.

Connecticut passes “convertible pistols” ban after Glock switch concerns

2026-04-29

The Connecticut House has passed a bill that would ban the sale of handguns that can be easily converted into machine guns with a thumb-sized device, a measure supporters say targets Glock-style “switches.” Gun dealers and firearms advocates say the proposal is unconstitutional and has already pushed some customers to buy Glocks before a possible ban, while the governor says the change is needed to update gun safety laws.

2nd Circuit rejects Trump no-bond detentions; case may go to Supreme Court

2026-04-29

A federal appeals court in New York ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration cannot detain immigrants without allowing them to seek bond, citing “serious constitutional questions” about what it said would otherwise be a broad mass detention-without-bond mandate. The unanimous ruling from the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sets the stage for a possible U.S. Supreme Court review.

Justice Department asks court to dismiss White House ballroom lawsuit

2026-04-29

The Justice Department urged a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit by a historic preservation group over a planned $400 million White House ballroom, filings submitted after a shooting at a media gala at the White House. The government said the lawsuit should end, arguing it would “greatly endanger the lives of all Presidents, current and future.” The preservation group, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, argued Congress and key federal agencies had to approve the project before construction.

Mali junta leader meets Russia’s ambassador as attacks spark “coup attempt” row

2026-04-29

Mali’s junta leader, Col. Assimi Goita, met Russia’s ambassador in Bamako on Tuesday, his first public appearance since a massive weekend attack by Islamic militants and separatists. Goita gave a televised address vowing military operations would continue, while Russia’s defense ministry denounced the assault as a coup attempt and said it was thwarted by Russian forces supporting Malian troops.

Serbian protest urges Eurovision boycott over Israel’s participation

2026-04-29

Dozens of protesters gathered outside Serbia’s public broadcaster RTS in Belgrade, urging the Balkan country to pull out of the Eurovision Song Contest because Israel is participating. The demonstrators waved Palestinian flags and said Serbia should not broadcast or watch the contest.

Trump administration fires National Science Board members overseeing NSF

2026-04-29

The Trump administration fired members of the National Science Board, an independent panel that oversees the National Science Foundation, according to emails board members received. Board members said they were told their positions were “terminated, effective immediately.”

California governor candidates clash in chaotic TV debate over costs, housing

2026-04-29

California’s crowded 2026 governor race featured a chaotic televised debate on April 28, with eight candidates interrupting one another and grappling with questions on costs, housing and wildfire insurance. Candidates sparred over policy proposals including a pledge by Xavier Becerra to freeze home insurance rates, as mail ballots were set to go out within a week.

Trump administration pays Bluepoint and Golden State to exit offshore wind

2026-04-29

The Trump administration said it will pay Bluepoint Wind and Golden State Wind to end their U.S. offshore wind leases, after courts blocked earlier efforts to halt the projects. The Interior Department said the reimbursements total nearly $900 million and that the companies will not pursue new offshore wind projects in the United States.

Washington seeks order to let health inspectors into Geo Group ICE detention

2026-04-29

Washington state asked a federal judge on Tuesday to require private prison operator The Geo Group to allow state health inspectors into its Tacoma immigration detention center, known as the Northwest ICE Processing Center. The state said inspectors from the Washington Department of Health have repeatedly been denied entry despite a 2023 law granting Washington broad authority over contractors running private detention facilities.

EU says Meta is failing to keep under-13 users off Facebook and Instagram

2026-04-29

The European Union accused Meta of failing to stop children younger than 13 from accessing Facebook and Instagram, alleging the company violated the bloc’s digital rules meant to protect minors. The European Commission said Meta lacked effective measures to prevent under-13 sign-ups and did not do enough to identify and remove children after accounts were opened.

Sheinbaum says Mexico will investigate U.S. indictments over Sinaloa ties

2026-04-29

President Claudia Sheinbaum said Mexico will investigate a U.S. indictment of 10 current and former officials accused in New York of drug trafficking and illegal weapons possession tied to the Sinaloa Cartel, and she vowed Mexico would not allow foreign interference in prosecutorial decisions. The move follows Mexico’s statement that it saw an extradition request but found it lacked evidence to justify arrests.

Israel President Herzog invites Netanyahu and prosecutors to mediate

2026-04-29

President Isaac Herzog invited Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and prosecutors to his residence to try to settle an ongoing corruption case, according to an invitation signed by Herzog’s legal adviser. The invitation came days after Herzog said he would not decide Netanyahu’s request for a pardon and instead urged the sides to reach a settlement.

Iowa school district tightens conflict rules after audit flags ex-superintendent

2026-04-29

Des Moines Public Schools said it revised its conflict-of-interest policy after a state audit found its former superintendent, Ian Roberts, awarded district business to a consulting firm he worked for. The district made the policy changes after a request for a reaudit that followed an Associated Press investigation into the matter, according to the audit released Tuesday.

DOJ lawsuit seeking Arizona voter information is dismissed

2026-04-29

A federal judge dismissed a U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit against Arizona seeking access to the state’s detailed voter records, dealing a new setback to the Trump administration’s bid to obtain voter data. In the ruling, U.S. District Judge Susan Brnovich, a Trump appointee, said Arizona’s statewide voter registration list is not a document the attorney general can request under federal law.

Former Fauci adviser indicted for allegedly concealing COVID-19 records

2026-04-29

A former senior adviser to Dr. Anthony Fauci, David Morens, has been indicted on federal charges that allege he concealed communications related to COVID-19 research while working at the National Institutes of Health. The Justice Department said Morens used a private email account to intentionally circumvent public records laws and allegedly concealed or destroyed records of discussions tied to COVID-19 research grants.

Mark Sanford quits South Carolina House bid, plans debt-focused nonprofit

2026-04-29

Mark Sanford, the Republican former South Carolina congressman and governor, has ended his latest bid for public office, saying he is quitting a congressional race to focus on the national debt and build a nonprofit centered in South Carolina. Sanford, 65, told The Associated Press that he shut down his campaign about a month after launching it.

Texas Medical Board proposes ban on in-home ketamine, tighter physician oversight

2026-04-29

Texas Medical Board officials are proposing tighter regulations on ketamine treatments, including a ban on in-home use and new limits on how many patients medical staff can treat at once when a physician is not on site, according to a proposal shared ahead of an expected May 8 publication. The board is scheduled to vote on the changes in June.

King Charles III arrives in US for 4-day state visit amid Trump rift

2026-04-28

King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived at the White House on Monday for a four-day U.S. state visit that officials say is meant to reinforce ties, even as tensions between President Donald Trump and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer have surfaced over the Iran war. Trump greeted the royals upon arrival and later said the trip could “absolutely” help repair the trans-Atlantic relationship. Charles is scheduled to speak to a joint meeting of Congress on Tuesday.

Adopted kids confined by private treatment firms

2026-04-28

An Associated Press investigation found adopted children are being confined in private, for-profit residential treatment programs and boarding schools that market care for adoption-related issues, despite evidence experts say doesn’t match their claims. Adoptees interviewed by AP described being promised “forever homes” but instead placed for years in facilities they said felt like prison, with limited outside oversight.

Planning for Trump’s security during big events may get trickier

2026-04-28

Federal law enforcement officials are evaluating how to handle President Donald Trump’s upcoming high-profile events after an attack at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner. The planning follows Saturday’s incident, when a man armed with guns and knives tried to storm the Washington hotel ballroom where Trump was set to speak.

Justice Dept urges end to lawsuit over Trump's $400M White House ballroom

2026-04-28

The Justice Department urged the National Trust for Historic Preservation to drop its lawsuit over President Donald Trump’s planned $400 million White House ballroom, citing security concerns after a shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said Sunday the time had come to proceed with the ballroom project, and the department set a deadline of 9 a.m. Monday for the preservation group to dismiss its case.

South Africans protest illegal immigration in Johannesburg

2026-04-28

Hundreds of South Africans marched through Johannesburg on Wednesday to protest illegal immigration, a dispute that demonstrators say has fueled tensions between locals and foreign nationals. Shops closed during the protest amid fears of looting or opportunistic crime, according to the Associated Press.

House advances plan to fund Homeland Security as TSA pay nears cutoff

2026-04-28

The House took a key step Wednesday toward funding the Department of Homeland Security, as the White House warned that money used to pay Transportation Security Administration and other agency personnel will “soon run out.” House Republicans adopted a budget resolution on a party-line vote that would set up about $70 billion for immigration enforcement and deportations for the rest of President Donald Trump’s term.

Republicans seek funds for Trump White House ballroom after dinner shooting

2026-04-28

Republicans in Congress on Monday introduced new efforts to approve and fund President Donald Trump’s proposed White House ballroom, arguing it would reduce security risks after a shooting attempt at Saturday’s White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. The renewed push includes a bill introduced by Republican senators to authorize $400 million for construction and security work.

Texas appeals ruling allows police to arrest suspects under SB 4

2026-04-28

The U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals lifted a lower-court injunction blocking Texas from enforcing a 2023 law that allows state police to arrest people suspected of entering the country illegally, according to the court’s order released Friday. The appellate court dismissed the lawsuit brought by Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center, American Gateways and El Paso County, citing plaintiffs’ lack of standing.

Trump defies protocol in relaying private conversation with King Charles III

2026-04-28

President Donald Trump relayed details from a private meeting with Britain’s King Charles III during a U.S. state dinner on Tuesday, saying the king agreed that Iran should never be allowed to have nuclear weapons. The remark, made during the dinner honoring Charles and Queen Camilla, prompted mild consternation among British pundits because diplomatic protocol discourages discussing closed-door conversations with the monarch.

Iraq’s dominant bloc nominates Ali al-Zaidi as prime minister

2026-04-28

BAGHDAD (AP) — Iraq’s dominant Coordination Framework, a Shiite political coalition allied with Iran, nominated businessman Ali al-Zaidi as prime minister on Monday after weeks of internal wrangling over a successor to the current government. President Nizar Amidi then tasked al-Zaidi with forming a cabinet, though the new lineup is not assured of winning parliament’s confidence vote.

Cubans back “My signature for the Homeland” campaign as U.S. tensions rise

2026-04-28

Cubans have been signing up for the “My signature for the Homeland” campaign launched by President Miguel Díaz-Canel earlier this month, as the United States and Cuba trade sharper rhetoric over sanctions and threats of aggression. Supporters say the signatures are a message to Washington that Cubans want peace but will defend their sovereignty, while some critics question why people are lining up amid hunger and economic stress on the island.

Beijing bans drone sales citywide starting May 1

2026-04-28

Beijing will ban the sale and use of drones within city limits starting May 1, according to ordinances approved by the city government in late March. The rules include exceptions for universities, research institutions and public safety operations, but require permission from police, and impose potential fines and confiscation for violations.

EPA administrator faces sharp questions over proposed budget cuts

2026-04-28

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin defended a proposed budget for the Environmental Protection Agency that would cut funding sharply, telling senators the agency can still enforce environmental laws. At a Senate committee hearing Wednesday, Democrats accused Zeldin and the Trump administration of abandoning the EPA’s mission to protect human health and the environment as Congress weighs the final shape of the plan.

Pentagon can require reporters to be escorted while appeal proceeds, court rules

2026-04-28

A divided federal appeals court panel ruled Monday that the Defense Department can require journalists to be escorted on Pentagon grounds while the Trump administration appeals a lower-court decision blocking enforcement of a Pentagon press access policy challenged by The New York Times. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit suspended an April 9 ruling by Judge Paul Friedman, who found the policy violated journalists’ constitutional rights.

Salvadorans watch as Supreme Court weighs Temporary Protected Status

2026-04-28

The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday on whether the Trump administration properly ended Temporary Protected Status protections for Haitians and Syrians, and whether the decision unlawfully prejudiced non-white immigrants. For an estimated 200,000 Salvadorans, the case is also closely watched because Temporary Protected Status for El Salvador is set to expire unless it is renewed later this year.

UK expels Russian diplomat after Moscow expels British official

2026-04-28

The U.K. expelled a Russian diplomat on Wednesday in retaliation for Russia expelling a British official earlier and for what Britain said was a smear campaign that followed. Britain’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said it summoned the Russian ambassador in London to deliver “reciprocal action,” as tensions between Moscow and Western governments continue to spiral.

Virginia Supreme Court weighs whether to block new U.S. House districts

2026-04-28

Richmond, Va., April 27 — The Virginia Supreme Court on Monday questioned whether the Democratic-led legislature followed constitutional requirements when it sent a voter-approved U.S. House redistricting plan to voters, in a case that could reshape party power in the chamber. Justices heard arguments on whether an intermediate “election” window in the amendment process was handled too late, Republicans said, to allow lawmakers to place the constitutional change before voters.

FERC orders inspection of Cheboygan Dam powerhouse after flooding

2026-04-28

Federal energy regulators have ordered immediate inspections of the Cheboygan Dam powerhouse in Michigan and other dams after historic flooding threatened failures. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission said the powerhouse was reactivated as an emergency measure April 17, after a 2023 fire left it offline, and it ordered the owner to submit a report by May 15.

White House withdraws Scott Socha nomination to lead National Park Service

2026-04-28

The White House on Monday withdrew President Donald Trump’s nomination of Scott Socha to lead the National Park Service, according to a White House announcement. The park service is currently led by acting director Jessica Bowron as it lacks a Senate-confirmed director. Socha, a hospitality executive at Delaware North, said he was dropping out of consideration for personal reasons.

Washington journalists report chaos after gunman tries to storm WHCA dinner

2026-04-28

President Donald Trump was preparing to speak Saturday night at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner when a gunman tried to storm the event, triggering chaos for journalists in the ballroom at the Washington Hilton. In the immediate aftermath, reporters described sheltering under tables, struggling with cell service, and trying to file fast updates while accuracy was still uncertain.

Why conspiracy theories spread during White House Correspondents’ Dinner

2026-04-28

In the minutes after a shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner on Saturday night, reporters snapped into action to provide real-time, scene-based accounts — yet conspiracy theories still flooded the internet. An Associated Press report described how multiple unfounded narratives, including claims the attack was staged, spread even as live reporting provided rapidly corroborated facts.

Washington sues to force Geo Group to allow health inspectors into Tacoma ICE jail

2026-04-28

Washington state asked a federal judge to order The Geo Group to allow state health inspectors into its for-profit immigration detention center in Tacoma, the Associated Press reported. Gov. Bob Ferguson said inspectors from the Washington Department of Health have been turned away repeatedly, including 10 times since a 2023 state law, and that the detention center houses up to about 1,600 people under a contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Billionaire Tom Steyer takes on the rich in California governor race

2026-04-28

Billionaire climate activist Tom Steyer is seeking the Democratic nomination for California governor by casting himself as a “billionaire who wants to tax other billionaires” as he competes for attention ahead of the June 2 primary, according to interviews and political figures cited by The Associated Press. Steyer’s campaign has drawn both progressive support and heavy opposition from business groups, with critics questioning whether his proposals are politically and economically feasible.

EU says Meta fails to keep under-13 users off Facebook and Instagram

2026-04-28

The European Union accused Meta on Wednesday of failing to keep children under 13 off Facebook and Instagram, saying the company did not have effective measures to stop underage signups and did not do enough to identify and remove children after accounts were opened. Meta said it has measures to detect and remove accounts for users younger than 13 and said it will provide more details next week.

Kid Rock and Pete Hegseth fly in Army Apache at Virginia base

2026-04-28

Kid Rock and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth flew in U.S. Army Apache helicopters at a base in Virginia on Monday, according to photos posted by Hegseth and public flight-tracking data. The flights came weeks after earlier Apache flights near Kid Rock’s Tennessee home and near a “No Kings” protest in Nashville prompted questions about whether they were authorized.

Nebraska to enforce Medicaid work requirement for new applicants Friday

2026-04-28

Nebraska will enforce work, volunteer or education requirements for new Medicaid applicants beginning Friday, becoming the first state to do so before a federally mandated timeline. The policy, tied to a broad tax and policy law signed by President Donald Trump, will require many adults ages 19 to 64 to meet monthly activity thresholds or face faster eligibility reviews every six months.

Syria says Australia won't repatriate families from Roj camp

2026-04-28

BEIRUT (AP) — Syrian officials said Wednesday that 13 Australian women and children who left the Roj camp for relatives of suspected Islamic State militants are stuck in Syria because Australia has refused to repatriate them. Syria’s information ministry said the families were turned back before reaching Damascus International Airport, citing a decision by the Australian government not to receive them.

Mugabe’s son deported from South Africa after guilty pleas

2026-04-28

A magistrate in Johannesburg ordered Bellarmine Mugabe, the son of late Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe, to be immediately deported from South Africa after he pleaded guilty to two criminal charges earlier this month. Magistrate Renier Boshoff also ordered him to pay about $36,000 in fines or serve two years in prison.

Sheinbaum seeks to defuse US tensions after two CIA agents die in Chihuahua crash

2026-04-28

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum ruled out a conflict with the United States over an incident in Chihuahua in which two CIA agents died in an accident. Speaking at a morning news briefing on Monday, she said she hopes the episode remains isolated and that the federal government expects the U.S. to respect Mexico’s constitution and national security laws going forward.

Manhattan judge tosses murder conviction after prosecutors paid key witness

2026-04-28

A Manhattan judge tossed the murder conviction of Harry Ruiz after a review of his case found new evidence that prosecutors may have withheld, including thousands of dollars in payments to the mother of the key witness. Ruiz, who had served 25 years in prison, was released on parole in 2019. At Monday’s hearing, Judge Robert Mandelbaum also rebuked a former assistant district attorney’s refusal to participate in the reinvestigation.

King Charles III and Camilla visit New York’s 9/11 memorial during US trip

2026-04-28

King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited the National 9/11 Memorial in New York on Wednesday as part of a four-day diplomatic trip to the United States marking 250 years of American independence. The royal couple laid flowers at the memorial and met with victims’ relatives, first responders and local dignitaries before continuing to other events across the city.

Japan’s Takaichi inaugurates panel to review security and defense strategy

2026-04-28

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Monday inaugurated a 15-member panel to review the country’s security and defense policies as tensions with China, North Korea and Russia intensify, the Associated Press reported. The panel will examine emergency scenarios and the defense budget as it prepares recommendations for changes in the coming months.

EU sustainability rules push Ferragamo to map leather origins

2026-04-28

Italian luxury brand Ferragamo said it can map the country of origin for much of the leather used in its footwear and handbags, a step it said supports traceability efforts as new European Union sustainability rules take shape. The company’s chief product officer, James Ferragamo, said in an interview that leather is “one of the more sustainable materials” and that many partner tanneries manage water use and workforce treatment while checking leather sources.

Congo launches paramilitary mining guard backed by U.S. and UAE funding

2026-04-28

Congo announced the creation of a paramilitary guard to secure its mining operations, backed by U.S. and Emirati investments, as it seeks more control over mineral supply chains amid insecurity in the east. The General Inspectorate of Mines said the force would be deployed gradually, with an initial 2,500 to 3,000 personnel expected to be operational by December after six months of training. The program is funded through partnerships with the United States and the United Arab Emirates, according to the statement.

California regulators apologize to Elon Musk in SpaceX lawsuit settlement

2026-04-28

California regulators apologized to SpaceX CEO Elon Musk after settling a lawsuit that said a state agency showed political bias against him and his rocket company. The California Coastal Commission said it made “improper” statements about Musk’s political beliefs in a 2024 hearing tied to SpaceX’s Falcon 9 launch plans at Vandenberg Space Force Base.

Plan to tax billionaires on track to qualify for California ballot

2026-04-28

The Service Employees International Union Healthcare Workers West says a California ballot initiative seeking a temporary 5% tax on billionaires has collected enough signatures to qualify for the November ballot. Backers said the tax would apply to people with net worth above $1 billion who lived in California as of Jan. 1, 2026, and that the measure aims to raise $100 billion. The California secretary of state must still verify the signatures and place the initiative on the ballot.

Carney announces $18 billion Canadian sovereign wealth fund

2026-04-28

Canada is developing a government-owned investment fund that would start at 25 billion Canadian dollars ($18 billion), Prime Minister Mark Carney said Monday. Carney said the fund would invest alongside private investors in major Canadian industrial projects as Canada seeks to diversify away from the United States amid threats of tariffs. “Many of our former strengths built on our close ties to the United States have become our weaknesses,” Carney said, adding, “That’s their right and we are responding. That is our imperative.”

Indonesia urges social media firms to disclose under-16 account suspensions

2026-04-28

Indonesia is urging social media companies and digital platforms to report how many accounts have been suspended for users under 16 as it implements regulations restricting children’s access, authorities said Wednesday. Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid said compliance is not enough without public disclosure of the figures. The rule, adopted at the end of March, affects an estimated 70 million children and young people, and critics say enforcing it raises privacy and verification concerns.

Lebanon detains former Palestinian ambassador on corruption charges

2026-04-28

Lebanon detained Ashraf Dabbour, the former Palestinian ambassador to Lebanon, shortly after his arrival at Beirut’s Rafik Hariri International Airport on corruption charges, Lebanese authorities said. Authorities said Dabbour was arrested late Tuesday and was being questioned by a judge at the prosecutor’s office in Beirut.

Men accused of being asked to set fires at Starmer-linked London homes

2026-04-28

A British prosecutor told a jury that three men accused in London of arson were offered payment by a Russian-speaking contact online to burn property linked to Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The prosecutor said one of the men allegedly identified the others through Telegram, and that the fires occurred between May 8 and May 12 last year in north London. The defendants deny the charges.

Pennsylvania voter registration manager pleads guilty to solicitation charges

2026-04-28

Guillermo Sainz Gurrola, a Pennsylvania voter registration drive manager, pleaded guilty Monday to three misdemeanor counts and was sentenced to a month in county jail, the Associated Press reported. Prosecutors said his operation offered financial incentives to canvassers who met registration quotas in 2024, while the Pennsylvania attorney general’s office said additional charges against six canvassers remain pending.

Prosecutors accuse Wisconsin police chief in illegal armor-piercing rounds import

2026-04-28

Two brothers from California face federal conspiracy charges tied to an alleged scheme to import nearly half a million armor-piercing rounds into the United States, prosecutors said. They also allege the brothers recruited the chief of police in a small town in southeastern Wisconsin to help them submit a fraudulent paperwork application to import the ammunition.

South Dakota opioid settlement funds: local spending lags while state grants expand

2026-04-28

South Dakota counties and cities that received early opioid-settlement payments have spent less than half of their allotments, according to spending reports reviewed through the end of 2025. The distributions began in late 2022, and opioid deaths in South Dakota rose to 41 in 2025, from 39 in 2024. The state says it does not oversee how local governments use their share.

Oprah’s podcast expands to 2 episodes a week as Amazon adds her TV library

2026-04-28

Oprah Winfrey’s podcast is moving deeper into Amazon, after Harpo Entertainment struck a multiyear deal giving Amazon-owned Wondery exclusive distributing and advertising rights to “The Oprah Podcast.” Under the agreement announced Monday, Winfrey’s podcast will add two new episodes a week starting this summer, and Wondery will distribute the show’s audio and video across Amazon platforms.

Tillis drops opposition to Warsh Fed chair nomination after DOJ ends probe

2026-04-27

Sen. Thom Tillis said he is ready to move forward with confirming Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve chair, after the U.S. Department of Justice ended its investigation into current Fed Chair Jerome Powell. Tillis, a Republican who had effectively blocked the nomination, told NBC’s “Meet the Press” that he received assurances the case was settled.

Ohio GOP primary for governor shows potential headwinds for Ramaswamy

2026-04-27

Ohio’s contested Republican primary for governor is approaching, with Vivek Ramaswamy leaning heavily on his national profile while some within his party raise concerns about his competitiveness with conservative voters ahead of the May 5 election. The potential headwinds include discontent over costs of living and other issues, as well as criticism of some of his proposals and backlash tied to Ramaswamy’s background.

Trump calls for unity after hotel breach. But will he keep the tone?

2026-04-27

President Donald Trump called for unity and bipartisan healing after authorities said a man tried to rush a security perimeter near a Washington hotel where Trump was about to speak at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. Speaking late Saturday at the White House and again on Fox News Sunday, Trump also described the incident as proof that violence tied to politics has escalated.

GOP lawmakers renew push for Trump White House ballroom after dinner shooting

2026-04-27

Republicans in Congress on Monday renewed efforts to approve and fund President Donald Trump’s proposed White House ballroom, arguing it would reduce security gaps highlighted by the shooting at Saturday’s White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. The lawmakers introduced legislation to authorize $400 million for construction and security infrastructure underneath the ballroom, according to the Associated Press.

Donald Riegle, former Michigan congressman and senator, dies at 88

2026-04-27

Donald W. Riegle, who represented Michigan in the U.S. House and Senate for nearly three decades under seven presidents, died at 88, his family said Sunday. Riegle, a Republican who later became a Democrat, died Friday of cardiac arrest at his home in San Diego, according to a family statement.

Supreme Court declines appeal in Ohio Householder, Borges bribery case

2026-04-27

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday upheld federal racketeering convictions of imprisoned former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder and ex-lobbyist Matt Borges in a long-running $60 million bribery scheme. With their last legal option exhausted, Householder and Borges remain convicted after the high court declined to hear Householder’s and Borges’ appeals.

What we know about security for Trump at correspondents’ dinner after shooting

2026-04-27

President Donald Trump was scheduled to speak at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner Saturday at the Washington Hilton when a shooting suspect was detained, and officials said the suspect appeared to have reached the hotel’s outer perimeter because he was a guest. Two law enforcement officials told The Associated Press that the suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, of Torrance, California, had a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives.

Latino leaders surge into local office as Trump-era rhetoric fuels urgency

2026-04-27

Latino leaders are taking more prominent roles in local government as voters respond to what political scientists describe as rising attacks and dehumanizing rhetoric aimed at Latino communities, including during President Donald Trump’s second term. In cities and states across the country, newly elected Latino officials—including Lancaster, Pennsylvania’s first Latino mayor—have framed their wins as a way to defend their communities and build representation from the ground up, the Associated Press reported April 27.

Kid Rock, Hegseth fly in Army Apache weeks after earlier near-home scrutiny

2026-04-27

Kid Rock and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth flew in Army Apache attack helicopters at a base in Virginia on Monday, according to the Pentagon and public flight data. The flights drew fresh scrutiny after Army pilots were questioned in March for flying near the entertainer’s Tennessee home and after the helicopters flew during a Nashville protest.

China blocks Meta from acquiring AI startup Manus as U.S.-China rivalry grows

2026-04-27

China’s top economic planning agency said it is prohibiting a foreign acquisition of the AI startup Manus, dealing a blow to Meta’s plans to expand its AI agent offerings. The decision was made through China’s Office of the Working Mechanism for Security Review of Foreign Investment in accordance with Chinese laws, the agency said. The move comes as U.S. tech firms face tighter scrutiny abroad amid intensifying U.S.-China technology competition.

How security has changed at Washington Hilton since Reagan's shooting

2026-04-27

WASHINGTON (AP) — Security at the Washington Hilton has changed substantially since Ronald Reagan was shot outside the hotel in 1981, and a new incident Saturday at a Washington Hilton dinner forced the evacuation of President Donald Trump and other officials. Officials said a gunman fired at least one shot near security checkpoints leading to a ballroom during the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, but did not get close to the president.

Nebraska to start Medicaid work requirement for new applicants Friday

2026-04-27

Nebraska will start requiring work, volunteering or education activities for new Medicaid applicants Friday, a change advocates say will arrive before unresolved details are finalized. The requirement is set to take effect federally later, and Nebraska officials say they are prepared to review eligibility using a mix of state and applicant-provided information.

Suspect in Washington press-corps dinner shooting wrote complaints about Trump

2026-04-27

El hombre acusado de abrir fuego en la cena de la Asociación de Corresponsales de la Casa Blanca en Washington había expresado quejas contra el gobierno de Donald Trump en escritos enviados a familiares minutos antes del ataque, según informó The Associated Press. Investigadores usan esos mensajes, publicaciones en redes sociales y entrevistas con familiares para evaluar el estado mental del sospechoso y sus posibles motivos.

Tillis drops block on Warsh as DOJ probe of Powell ends

2026-04-26

Sen. Thom Tillis said Sunday he is prepared to move forward with confirming Kevin Warsh as the next chair of the Federal Reserve, after the Justice Department ended its investigation of current Fed Chair Jerome Powell. Tillis’s shift removes a hurdle in a GOP-controlled Senate panel that had stalled the nomination ahead of the end of Powell’s term as chair. The Senate Banking Committee planned to vote on Warsh’s nomination Wednesday.

All-nighters in Congress create dysfunction after dark

2026-04-26

Congress is holding marathon overnight votes in the House and Senate more often, lawmakers say, as leaders push high-stakes bills through hours-long “vote-a-rama” sessions that stretch into the early morning. Republicans and Democrats point to confusion and fatigue that can spill into late-night, partisan fights—particularly over government funding and surveillance authority. The latest stretch left senators filing out just after 3:30 a.m. on Thursday, after another round of amendment voting.

US sanctions China refinery, about 40 shippers over Iranian oil

2026-04-26

President Donald Trump’s administration is imposing sanctions on a major China-based oil refinery and about 40 shipping companies and tankers involved in transporting Iranian oil, the Treasury Department said. The move cuts the firms off from the U.S. financial system and threatens secondary sanctions on others who do business with them.

Ohio GOP governor primary tests Ramaswamy as Acton waits for general election

2026-04-26

Ohio’s Republican governor primary on May 5 is fast approaching, but a rival in the GOP field is showing signs of traction that could complicate Vivek Ramaswamy’s path to the party’s nomination. The contest also raises questions for Republicans about whether low turnout could cost them in November against Democrat Amy Acton, Ohio’s former public health director.

Trump calls for unity after third attempt. But will the tone last?

2026-04-26

President Donald Trump called for unity and “bipartisan healing” after a man with weapons tried to breach a White House security perimeter ahead of the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in Washington. Trump said he was “undoubtedly” the target and, in remarks to reporters and on Fox News, urged Americans to “resolve our differences,” while also linking political violence to his own presidency and past incidents.

Former Interior secretary Dirk Kempthorne dies at 74

2026-04-26

Former Idaho Gov. and U.S. Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne died Friday evening in Boise at age 74, his family said in a written statement Saturday. No cause was given, and the statement said he was diagnosed with colon cancer last year.

Connecticut Senate passes Lamont vaccine recommendations bill HB 5044

2026-04-26

Connecticut Democrats won final passage for Gov. Ned Lamont’s vaccine recommendations bill in the state Senate on Thursday, with an uncharacteristically early 22-12 vote. The measure would expand the authority of the Public Health Commissioner to set vaccine recommendations for both adults and children, require insurers to cover recommended shots, and let the agency buy doses from sources other than the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Justice Department ends criminal investigation of Fed chair Powell

2026-04-26

The Justice Department has ended its investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, clearing a roadblock to the Senate’s confirmation of Kevin Warsh as his successor, the AP reported. U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro said her office was ending its probe into renovations at the Fed after the agency’s inspector general would scrutinize them instead.

Warsh edges closer to becoming Fed chair but rate cut may still wait

2026-04-26

President Donald Trump’s pick for Federal Reserve chair, Kevin Warsh, is drawing closer amid signals that the White House expects faster rate cuts after he takes office. But economists and Fed rate-setting committee dynamics suggest Americans may not see immediate relief in borrowing costs for mortgages, auto loans or business lending. Inflation pressures, including recent energy-driven price increases, and a committee vote split in March could slow any shift toward cutting interest rates.

TMZ DC taps Washington with paparazzi-style ambush interviews

2026-04-26

TMZ is expanding its celebrity-gossip brand into Washington with a new “TMZ DC” team that aims to capture candid images of lawmakers “paparazzi-style,” and has already produced viral moments. The effort comes as Congress faces heightened public scrutiny and several lawmakers have resigned amid allegations, according to Gallup polling cited by The Associated Press. In a sign of attention from the Trump administration, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called the outlet during a Pentagon briefing on Friday.

Supreme Court to weigh whether geofence warrants violate the Fourth Amendment

2026-04-26

The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing arguments in a case involving “geofence” warrants, a method that uses a location-based search to identify suspects and then gather cellphone location history. The justices will decide whether the warrants violate the Fourth Amendment’s limits on unreasonable searches. The case comes as the court considers how constitutional rules apply to digital data collection that the nation’s founders did not face.

Afghans who helped U.S. war can return safely, Kabul says

2026-04-26

Afghanistan’s foreign ministry says Afghans who helped the U.S. during its war and have been stuck in Qatar can return home safely, according to a statement issued Saturday by spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi. The remarks came after reports that the Trump administration is discussing potentially relocating about 1,100 people and relatives of U.S. service members to Congo.

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves calls special session on judicial maps

2026-04-26

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves announced he will call a special session for judicial redistricting after the U.S. Supreme Court rules on a Voting Rights Act case, Louisiana v. Callais. Reeves said the Legislature will meet 21 days after the ruling and that a federal decision last August required Mississippi to redraw the state Supreme Court’s electoral map.

Maine governor vetoes nation's first statewide data center moratorium

2026-04-26

Maine Gov. Janet Mills vetoed a bill that would have created the country’s first statewide moratorium on large data centers and a special council to help towns assess proposed projects. The veto came after Mills said the legislation did not include a carve-out for a data center proposal in Jay that would bring jobs to a community affected by a mill closure.

Trump to attend White House correspondents’ dinner after decades of roasts

2026-04-26

As Donald Trump prepares to attend the White House Correspondents’ Dinner for the first time as president, the AP looks back at how the annual event has swung between laughs and sharp political tension—often through celebrity comedians’ roasts. The dinner’s modern format, with a red carpet for journalists and political figures and televised jokes, has produced viral moments stretching back decades.

Sospechoso del tiroteo en cena de corresponsales en Washington criticaba a Trump

2026-04-26

Un hombre acusado de abrir fuego en la cena de la Asociación de Corresponsales de la Casa Blanca en Washington había enviado a familiares escritos minutos antes del ataque en los que criticaba políticas del gobierno de Donald Trump, según autoridades citadas por The Associated Press. La fiscalía provisional dijo que el hombre habría intentado atacar a personas que trabajan para el gobierno y que está previsto que enfrente cargos el lunes.

Public outcry in Russia tests Putin’s rule as support slips

2026-04-26

Russians have voiced criticism of President Vladimir Putin’s wartime policies and tightening internet controls, as economists and pollsters track strain from the economy and declining approval. The latest wave included a widely viewed appeal by blogger Victoria Bonya, criticism by parliament’s Communist Party leader Gennady Zyuganov, and signs of sagging support in polls reported this week.

FDA to fast-track review of three psychedelic drugs after Trump directive

2026-04-26

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it will offer ultra-fast review to three psychedelic drugs being developed to treat mental health conditions, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, in a move tied to a Trump executive order. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary said the agency will “evaluate these potential therapies with urgency,” while the FDA said the program is meant to shorten reviews from months to weeks.

Indígenas protestan en Guatemala para exigir liberación de dos líderes detenidos

2026-04-26

Autoridades de varios pueblos indígenas en Guatemala protestaron el jueves para pedir la liberación de dos líderes indígenas encarcelados desde hace un año, acusados de presunto terrorismo. La marcha incluyó una solicitud al Ministerio Público y después una exigencia ante la Corte de Constitucionalidad, mientras ambos permanecen en prisión preventiva sin una acusación firme ni juicio.

EU offers to repair Gulf energy sites and build alternative to Hormuz

2026-04-26

European Union leaders meeting in Cyprus said the Iran war and the resulting disruption in the Strait of Hormuz have pushed the bloc to explore projects that would move energy exports through new routes and avoid choke points. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU is ready to work with Persian Gulf countries on alternative infrastructure and to help repair energy sites damaged in the conflict.

New NYC jails commissioner Stanley Richards once served time at Rikers

2026-04-26

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani appointed Stanley Richards as the city’s Department of Correction commissioner, making him the first formerly incarcerated person to oversee the jails that include Rikers Island. Richards, 65, said he does not carry “bad feelings” about his past confinement and is focused on improving safety, care and progress toward closing Rikers.

Orbán says he will not take his seat in Hungary’s parliament after loss

2026-04-26

Hungary’s outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said Saturday he will not take a seat in parliament after his party’s landslide election loss, instead calling for a reorganization of his nationalist-populist political community. Orbán made the announcement in a video posted to Facebook after voters on April 12 ended his 16 years in power.

More kids attend state-funded preschool as universal access expands

2026-04-26

The number of 4-year-olds attending state-funded preschools hit record highs last school year, a new report found, driven by states expanding access and spending. The gains bring more children into public early education, but the report also warns that quality and access remain uneven across states.

Colombia hosts global summit to tackle fossil fuel reliance

2026-04-26

Governments from about 50 countries are gathering in Santa Marta, Colombia, for a summit aimed at accelerating the shift away from fossil fuels, organizers said. The April 24-29 conference is co-hosted by Colombia and the Netherlands and is expected to open political debate without producing binding commitments, officials said.

Boston-area groups urge end to sewage discharges in waterways

2026-04-26

Massachusetts officials are moving forward with a plan that keeps sewage releases into waterways during heavy storms, prompting grassroots groups to push for a full shift to separate sewer systems. In the Boston area, water authority officials say the proposal would reduce combined sewer overflows, while critics argue it leaves “open sewers” in place. The state water agency is expected to submit an updated plan to regulators at the end of April, followed by a five-month public comment period, with a final plan expected in January 2027.

Santa Clara County workers put on leave amid child welfare crisis

2026-04-26

Workers in Santa Clara County, California, were put on leave as state and local officials responded to the death of 2-year-old Jaxon Juarez, with county officials saying the number of employees placed on leave rose from 10 pending personnel investigations. The county’s response follows broader scrutiny of the county’s child welfare system, including state action tied to earlier child deaths. Prosecutors have charged a teenage boy in the cousin’s killing of Juarez and said the investigation could expand.

California to weigh tighter restrictions on voter registration, mail voting

2026-04-26

California will put a proposal on the November ballot that would tighten voter-registration requirements by requiring proof of U.S. citizenship and would require voters to show identification at polling places, state officials announced. The proposal, backed by Republicans, also would change parts of the state’s mail voting process by requiring voters to provide the last four digits of a government-issued ID.

San Diego trims arts funding as California cities face budget deficits

2026-04-26

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria’s proposed budget would eliminate nearly all city arts funding as the city confronts a $146 million deficit, according to officials and advocates. City leaders also plan cuts to library hours and programs and to staffing, shifting resources toward public safety, homelessness efforts and road repairs. The AP report described how other large California cities—Los Angeles, Sacramento and San Francisco—are also facing multi-year budget gaps amid rising costs and weakening local revenue.

Conspiracy theories about missing or dead scientists boil over

2026-04-26

President Donald Trump and members of Congress are facing growing attention over conspiracy theories that link the disappearances or deaths of U.S. scientists. The theories, which began in online forums, have spread to mainstream political platforms and prompted investigations by the FBI and the House Oversight Committee.

ICE arrests drop nearly 12% after Minneapolis killings and Homan shake-up

2026-04-26

ICE arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement fell by an average of nearly 12% nationwide in the weeks after a Minneapolis killings and a shake-up of top immigration officials, according to data analyzed by the Associated Press. The drop followed a Feb. 4 drawdown announcement by “border czar” Tom Homan, who was sent to oversee immigration enforcement in Minnesota after the killings. The AP analysis also found arrest levels rose in some states during the same post-drawdown period, while others saw steep declines.

King Charles' U.S. state visit to spotlight US-UK bonds amid Iran tensions

2026-04-26

King Charles III and Queen Camilla will begin a four-day U.S. state visit next week, with ceremonies at the White House and a formal arrival at Washington’s presidential headquarters. Despite tensions tied to Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s refusal to support U.S. President Donald Trump’s policy toward Iran, the visit will emphasize what officials and historians call the “special relationship” between the United States and the United Kingdom, including a commemoration of the Sept. 11 attacks and honors for fallen U.S. service members.

Trump’s rejection of wind projects scrambles GOP politics before midterms

2026-04-26

When President Donald Trump tried to cancel five offshore wind projects under construction along the East Coast, the fallout reached coastal Virginia and shook Republican lawmakers who backed the projects. A letter signed by nine House Republicans demanded answers, including Rep. Jen Kiggans, whose district includes a planned $11.5 billion wind farm expected to create 1,000 jobs.

Tunisia suspends rights group as Saied crackdown on civil society widens

2026-04-26

Authorities in Tunisia ordered the one-month suspension of the Tunisian League for Human Rights, rights advocates said, in what they called a widening crackdown on civil society. The league, which has links to the National Dialogue Quartet that won the 2015 Nobel Peace Prize, said the suspension violates freedom of association and plans to challenge it in court. The move comes as authorities detain journalists and target independent media, including an upcoming court hearing tied to an outlet’s possible dissolution.

Palestinians vote in Gaza and West Bank in first local elections in 20+ years

2026-04-26

Palestinians voted Saturday in the first local elections held in part of Gaza in more than two decades, while tens of thousands voted in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, according to the Palestinian Authority’s Central Election Commission. The pilot vote in Deir al-Balah drew a largely symbolic turnout as Hamas did not field candidates there, with election officials reporting preliminary overall turnout of 53.4% and 22.7% in Deir al-Balah.

Justice Department allows firing squads, reauthorizes pentobarbital

2026-04-25

The U.S. Justice Department will allow firing squads as a federal execution method and will reauthorize the use of pentobarbital, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said Friday. The changes are intended to increase and speed federal capital punishment cases as the Trump administration seeks to resume executions after a moratorium ordered under President Joe Biden.

Trump defends drug price claims by citing “two ways of calculating”

2026-04-25

“Fake math” returned to the spotlight Thursday as President Donald Trump defended his past claims that efforts to cut prescription drug prices reduced what consumers pay by “500%, 600%.” During an Oval Office event announcing a deal with drugmaker Regeneron, Trump said there are “two ways of calculating” drug price changes and that the dispute “doesn’t make any difference.”

Wounded Lebanese journalist recounts hours after Israeli strike

2026-04-25

A Lebanese journalist wounded in an Israeli airstrike that killed her colleague described hours of agony as she waited for rescue to arrive, in an interview with The Associated Press. Zeinab Faraj said the strike hit a car in the village of al-Tiri, about 8 kilometers from the Israel border, days after a fragile Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire began.

Kenya appeals court overturns ruling affirming right to abortion

2026-04-25

A Kenyan court of appeal on Friday overturned a 2022 High Court ruling that found access to abortion was protected under the constitution, setting up another legal fight that may reach the Supreme Court. The appeal court said abortion is prohibited under the constitution except in limited circumstances, such as to save a mother’s life or protect her health.

Witkoff and Kushner head to Pakistan for talks with Iran’s foreign minister

2026-04-25

President Donald Trump is sending envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Pakistan to meet with Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, after Araghchi arrived in Islamabad late Friday, the White House said. The talks are aimed at reviving U.S.-Iran ceasefire discussions amid a war that has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Reporter’s account highlights Venezuela wives’ long protest for detained husbands

2026-04-25

A reporter for The Associated Press described a 64-day protest in Caracas led by women seeking the release of husbands detained by the Venezuelan government. Regina Garcia Cano said the sit-in outside a police station tested the protesters’ health and resolve as the government maintained detentions, even after a tent camp was removed and the women went home.

Wives protest Venezuela detentions after U.S. raid frees 17

2026-04-25

Two women in Venezuela who staged a monthslong protest to demand the release of political prisoners described how their husbands were not among those freed. Mileidy Mendoza and Sandra Rosales held vigils outside detention facilities in Caracas after Venezuela’s government announced it would release prisoners, but said their husbands’ names were not called during Valentine’s Day releases in February. The Associated Press reported the story.

Trump weighs taxpayer-funded takeover of Spirit Airlines amid Chapter 11

2026-04-25

President Donald Trump on Thursday said he was weighing a taxpayer-funded takeover of Spirit Airlines, with an intent to resell the budget carrier after oil prices fall. His comments came as Spirit pursues a financing deal in U.S. Bankruptcy Court that would help it emerge from Chapter 11.

Mexico artisan uses backstrap loom to resist LGBTQ+ discrimination

2026-04-25

Xaneri Merino, a transgender woman from San Pedro Jicayán in southern Mexico, has turned the backstrap loom—once punished in her Indigenous community—into a craft and workshop space for LGBTQ+ resistance, she and her students said. Merino said she learned the technique in secret from her grandmother, who passed down the portable weaving practice despite strict gender rules that largely barred men from weaving. In a recent class in Mexico City, Merino and participants described the loom as a way to teach, be seen and weave personal stories.

Trump reclassifies medical marijuana to Schedule III; hearing could expand changes

2026-04-25

President Donald Trump issued an order reclassifying state-licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, shifting how it is regulated under federal drug law. The change, issued Thursday, does not legalize marijuana for medical or recreational use under federal law, but it could reduce barriers for research and allow some federal tax deductions for licensed businesses. A new administrative hearing scheduled for the end of June could determine whether marijuana is reclassified more broadly.

Pulitzer-winning AP photographer Jack Thornell dies at 86

2026-04-25

Jack Thornell, the Pulitzer Prize-winning Associated Press photographer whose image of a wounded James Meredith after a shotgun attack became an enduring symbol of the civil rights movement, has died. Thornell died Thursday at a hospital in the New Orleans suburb of Metairie from complications of kidney disease, his son Jay Thornell said.

New Acting Lt. Gov. Chosen in Hawaii as Luke Takes Leave of Absence

2026-04-25

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke said Thursday she will take an indefinite leave of absence without pay while an investigation proceeds, and Gov. Josh Green named Keith Regan as acting lieutenant governor. Luke made the announcement after meeting with Green at the State Capitol, according to the governor’s office. Luke’s attorney previously said the state Attorney General’s Special Investigations and Prosecution Division considers her a target in an inquiry into $35,000 given to an influential lawmaker in 2022.

New York sues to keep $73.5M in federal highway funds tied to CDLs

2026-04-25

New York sued the U.S. government on Friday to challenge a Transportation Department decision to withhold nearly $74 million in federal highway money tied to the state’s decision not to revoke certain commercial driver’s licenses issued to immigrants. New York said it followed federal rules when the licenses were granted and that canceling the funding would harm safety investments, jobs and communities.

Colombia’s Petro meets Venezuela’s Delcy Rodríguez in Caracas talks

2026-04-25

Colombian President Gustavo Petro met in Caracas with Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez for their first meeting since U.S. forces seized former President Nicolás Maduro and his wife from their home in January, the Associated Press reported. The leaders were expected to discuss migration, defense, border security, and industrial cooperation and trade.

New law prompts Americans to seek Canadian dual citizenship

2026-04-25

Canada’s citizenship rules changed Dec. 15, and immigration lawyers and applicants say the shift has triggered a surge of Americans seeking dual Canadian citizenship based on ancestry. The new rules broaden eligibility to descendants of Canadians beyond the prior parent-to-child limit, while requiring proof for a certificate of citizenship.

Order reclassifies marijuana but leaves federal convictions

2026-04-25

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche signed an executive order reclassifying state-licensed medical marijuana as a less-dangerous drug on April 24, a move that advocates say could reshape parts of drug policy. But the order does not address existing federal penalties or the people already serving long sentences under marijuana-related convictions.

Peru police raid home of former election chief amid ballot probe

2026-04-25

Peru police raided the home of now-resigned elections chief Piero Corvetto and five other officials Friday as part of a widening investigation into a ballot shortage and other irregularities in the April 12 first round of the presidential election, police said. Corvetto resigned Tuesday to take responsibility for the election shortcomings and denied wrongdoing.

Trump order reclassifies medical marijuana as Schedule III

2026-04-24

President Donald Trump’s administration has reclassified medical marijuana as a less dangerous drug, moving it from Schedule I to Schedule III. The order, signed Thursday by the acting attorney general, applies to how federally regulated agencies treat state-licensed medical marijuana, but it does not legalize marijuana under federal law.

Trump and Regeneron unveil a drug pricing deal for Medicaid, TrumpRx

2026-04-24

President Donald Trump said on Thursday his administration reached a deal with Regeneron to lower the prices of its drugs for Medicaid and sell the cholesterol treatment Praluent for $225 on the White House’s discounted drug website, TrumpRx. The administration also said the company will spend $27 billion on research, development and manufacturing in the United States. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told lawmakers that the administration plans to share contract details with Congress only to the extent it can do so without disclosing proprietary information.

Senate advances budget plan to fund ICE and Border Patrol, sending it to House

2026-04-24

The Senate voted Thursday to move a budget plan that would fund U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol as lawmakers seek to restart parts of the Homeland Security Department after a shutdown that began in mid-February. The measure cleared the chamber early Thursday morning over Democratic objections and is now headed to the House.

Cuba says detainee releases are not on negotiating table in U.S. talks

2026-04-24

A Cuban diplomat said Havana will not consider releasing political prisoners as part of new talks with the United States, rejecting U.S. “ultimatums” and saying detainees’ status is an internal matter. Ernesto Soberón Guzmán, Cuba’s ambassador to the United Nations, made the remarks in an interview with The Associated Press on Thursday, as secret talks resumed in Havana.

Carney says US won’t dictate terms in USMCA review talks

2026-04-24

Vancouver-born Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney told reporters in Ottawa that the United States does not get to dictate the terms of a continental trade deal known as the USMCA. He spoke Wednesday ahead of the accord’s review in July, saying Canada will work through “trade irritants or trade issues” and “sit down and work through those issues” with the United States.

AP-NORC poll shows Trump losing approval among Hispanics, young adults

2026-04-24

Many groups that helped reelect Donald Trump as president are increasingly dissatisfied with his performance, according to an AP-NORC poll released April 23. The survey of more than 2,500 U.S. adults finds declining approval among Hispanic adults, younger adults under 45 and men, even as most Republicans still approve of his job performance. The poll ran April 16-20 as Americans faced fluctuating oil prices and spent more at the gas pump.

Josh Shapiro tests political power in Pennsylvania’s 2026 midterms

2026-04-24

Josh Shapiro, the Democratic governor of Pennsylvania, is trying to shape his party’s slate in this year’s midterm primaries while seeking reelection this fall, according to interviews and campaign activity reported by The Associated Press. At the start of the campaign trail, Shapiro said he is focused on winning his governor’s race and helping Democrats win competitive federal primaries, including races targeting seats in the U.S. House.

Republican proposes giving part of Virginia back to DC

2026-04-24

Republican Rep. Rich McCormick introduced the Make DC Square Again Act, a bill aimed at expanding the borders of Washington, D.C., by undoing the 19th-century retrocession of Alexandria and other parts of the district to Virginia. McCormick said the measure would “restore the original ten-mile-square District” and end what he called an “artificial advantage” for Virginia Democrats tied to federal bureaucrats moving into the state. The proposal follows a Virginia redistricting referendum approved by voters this week that could shift House seats toward Democrats.

Emory professors sue after arrests at Israel-Hamas protest

2026-04-24

Three professors at Emory University filed a lawsuit Thursday over arrests during a 2024 campus protest about the Israel-Hamas war, alleging the university violated its own free-speech policies by calling police and state troopers to disband the demonstration. The professors said the arrests led to 28 detentions and that the charges against them were later dismissed.

Bill would require California DMV to notify owners of surplus auction funds

2026-04-24

State lawmakers advanced legislation on April 23 that would require California’s Department of Motor Vehicles to notify vehicle owners within 14 days if the DMV receives surplus proceeds from lien sales of towed cars. The bill, introduced by Sen. Kelly Seyarto, would also require the notice to be sent by certified mail with a return receipt and to explain how owners can claim the money.

Judge orders family of man charged in Boulder firebomb attack released

2026-04-24

A federal judge ordered the release from immigration custody of the family of a man charged in a 2025 firebomb attack in Boulder, Colorado, an Associated Press report said. U.S. District Judge Fred Biery ruled Thursday that Hayam El Gamal and her five children can leave a family detention center in Dilley, Texas, if the mother and her oldest child wear electronic monitoring.

Pentagon abruptly says Navy Secretary John Phelan is departing

2026-04-24

Navy Secretary John Phelan is leaving his job, the Pentagon abruptly announced Wednesday, without providing a reason. The service’s acting head will be Undersecretary Hung Cao, a Navy combat veteran who has led unsuccessful campaigns for Congress in Virginia.

RFK Jr. misleads on Medicaid cuts, experts say in Congress appearances

2026-04-24

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. disputed claims in Congress that President Donald Trump’s 2025 tax and spending law included Medicaid cuts, telling lawmakers there were “no cuts to Medicaid.” Health policy experts and Medicaid analysts say the reforms reduce federal Medicaid spending over the decade, even as Medicaid spending is projected to rise due to factors such as population and health-care costs.

Trump plans appearance at White House correspondents' dinner

2026-04-24

The White House Correspondents’ Association dinner this weekend is drawing fresh scrutiny after President Donald Trump is expected to attend, despite his past clashes with major news organizations. The event, long billed as a spring Washington tradition for journalists in tuxedos, has prompted debate among reporters over whether attending alongside Trump signals acceptance or accountability.

Trump administration targets foreign exploitation of U.S. AI models

2026-04-24

The Trump administration has vowed to crack down on foreign companies it says are exploiting U.S. artificial intelligence models by “distilling” capabilities, a move that singles out China amid intensifying U.S.-China competition in AI. In a memo, Michael Kratsios, the president’s chief science and technology adviser, said the White House will work with U.S. AI companies to identify such activity, build defenses and punish offenders.

Political violence prompts security upgrades for lawmakers

2026-04-24

Nearly a year after the assassination of Minnesota House leader Melissa Hortman, lawmakers across the U.S. are tightening security at state capitols and increasing safeguards for officials and their personal information, the Associated Press reported. In Minnesota, doors at the Capitol are now locked and visitors must pass through weapons detectors before entering debate areas.

Michigan lawmakers weigh dam safety reforms as EGLE budget faces cuts

2026-04-24

Michigan lawmakers are set to consider legislation next week aimed at strengthening dam safety rules and boosting oversight, as state officials remain on alert following recent dam failures and emergency repairs. The proposal would raise flood-control and maintenance expectations for dams, increase inspection frequency, and seek closer coordination between federal and state regulators.

Pennsylvania treasurer denies paying Shapiro home security upgrades

2026-04-24

Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity on Thursday refused to approve more than $1 million in payments for security systems and other upgrades made to Gov. Josh Shapiro’s private home after an intruder set fire to the state-owned governor’s residence last year.

Michigan utility approves 12-month water ban for data centers

2026-04-24

The Ypsilanti Community Utilities Authority approved a 12-month moratorium barring the delivery of water and sewer services to data centers in its service area, citing limited water and wastewater capacity and the need for additional studies. The decision affects hyperscale and mid-size facilities, artificial intelligence computing sites and high-performance computational centers, as a University of Michigan data center project and other proposals move forward in the region.

Vermont prosecutor drops charges against six protesters in ICE raid

2026-04-24

Chittenden County State’s Attorney Sarah George said Wednesday she will not bring charges against six people arrested during a federal immigration raid in South Burlington last month. George said her office reviewed the cases to find where the harm was and who contributed to it.

Indicted SPLC faces civil rights backlash as groups plan legal response

2026-04-24

Civil rights groups condemned the Southern Poverty Law Center’s criminal indictment as a threat to civil rights and vowed coordinated support as the case begins in federal court in Alabama. The Justice Department alleges the nonprofit used a network of paid informants in extremist groups to commit wire fraud, bank fraud and money-laundering conspiracy.

Court dispute leaves former Zambia President Edgar Lungu’s body unburied

2026-04-24

A feud over burial plans has left former Zambian President Edgar Lungu’s body unburied nearly 10 months after his death, with Zambia’s government seeking custody of the remains for a state funeral. Lungu died in South Africa in June and his family had planned to bury him there, refusing to repatriate his body for a ceremony that would include President Hakainde Hichilema.

NTSB urges alcohol detectors in new school buses after West Virginia crash

2026-04-24

The National Transportation Safety Board on Thursday recommended that all new school buses be equipped with alcohol detection systems that can disable the bus if they detect the driver might be impaired. The recommendation follows a West Virginia crash in which police found the driver was drunk and a boy later required an amputation.

Maine signs zoning bill clarifying affordable-housing rules and deadlines

2026-04-24

Maine Gov. Janet Mills signed L.D. 2173 into law, a bill aimed at clarifying parts of the state’s recent zoning reform that required towns to loosen certain land-use restrictions to boost housing. The change follows years of debate over state growth targets versus local control and comes after lawmakers adjusted zoning rules again last year with L.D. 1829. Municipal leaders say the new law will give towns time to implement prior requirements while resolving technical disputes over water, sewer, lot sizes and building-height limits.

Trump says Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is being coated

2026-04-24

President Donald Trump announced that the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool will be coated in a “American flag blue” swimming-pool surface, during an Oval Office event Thursday. He said the decades-old granite beneath the pool had been “leaking like a sieve” and that replacing it would take years and cost about $301 million. The president said the coating project would be finished in weeks and ready before July 4.

Honolulu’s speed-camera rollout tickets few drivers as courts adapt

2026-04-24

Honolulu’s statewide speed-enforcement camera program has begun issuing speeding citations, but the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation has sent only 17 speeding tickets in the program’s first four months, according to court and state records reviewed by Honolulu Civil Beat and distributed by The Associated Press. State officials said they are targeting the “worst of the worst” speeders so the expected volume will not overwhelm police, courts and the judiciary’s information systems.

17 Somali migrants die after boat capsizes off Algeria, ambassador says

2026-04-24

Mogadishu, Somalia’s ambassador to Algeria said at least 17 Somali migrants drowned when a boat capsized in waters between Algeria and Spain. Yusuf Ahmed Hassan said he visited two hospitals near Algiers after the Algerian Foreign Ministry informed him that bodies were recovered in a coastal province about 100 kilometers west of the capital.

6 plead guilty in Mississippi drug trafficking bribery scheme, 1 acquitted

2026-04-24

Six current or former Mississippi law enforcement officers pleaded guilty by April 23 in an alleged drug trafficking bribery scheme, while a Greenville police officer was found not guilty. The case stems from federal indictments that said an FBI agent posed as a member of a Mexican drug cartel and paid bribes in exchange for help transporting cocaine through Mississippi Delta counties.

Amnesty warns World Cup visitors about U.S. authoritarianism and violence

2026-04-24

Amnesty International and dozens of U.S. civil and human rights groups issued a World Cup travel advisory for visitors to the United States, warning of “rising authoritarianism and increasing violence” during President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration enforcement. The groups said visitors could face arbitrary entry denials, detention in “inhumane” conditions and intrusive searches of phones and social media.

Feds charge soldier with using intel to win $400K bet on Maduro raid

2026-04-24

A U.S. special forces soldier involved in the January operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was charged with using classified information about the mission to profit from a Polymarket prediction bet worth more than $400,000, federal officials said Thursday. Prosecutors said Gannon Ken Van Dyke was part of the planning and execution for about a month starting Dec. 8, 2025, and allegedly used that access despite nondisclosure agreements.

MrBeast employee alleges harassment, fired after maternity leave

2026-04-24

A former Beast Industries employee, Lorrayne Mavromatis, filed a federal lawsuit in North Carolina alleging she was harassed for years and then fired after returning from maternity leave. Mavromatis also filed a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission alleging discrimination on the basis of sex, pregnancy and retaliation. Beast Industries denies the allegations and says it fired her after a reorganization of her team.

South Africa suspends police chief over alleged suspect contract fraud

2026-04-24

South Africa’s top police official was suspended by President Cyril Ramaphosa after being charged with breaking finance laws tied to an allegedly corrupt police contract, the Associated Press reported. Fannie Masemola appeared in court and is facing four counts under the Public Finance Management Act, related to a 360 million-rand ($21 million) deal for health and well-being services for police officers.

Trump acting AG signs order shifting state medical marijuana to Schedule III

2026-04-24

President Donald Trump’s acting attorney general, Todd Blanche, signed an order on Thursday reclassifying state-licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, a policy shift sought by advocates for years. Blanche said the change would allow research into the safety and effectiveness of cannabis used for medical purposes, while licensed operators would also receive a major federal tax break.

RFK Jr. tells Congress vaccines, Medicaid cuts, affordability are linked to budget

2026-04-23

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended President Donald Trump’s proposed 2027 budget in House and Senate hearings that stretched across multiple days, telling lawmakers he faced cuts that were “painful” but necessary to address the federal government’s record $39 trillion deficit. In the exchanges, Kennedy also disputed accusations over measles outbreaks and vaccination declines, and he rejected Democrats’ arguments about nearly $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts over the next decade.

Democrats celebrate Virginia redistricting win, but more legal battles loom

2026-04-23

Democrats in Virginia celebrated a Tuesday election approval of a mid-decade congressional redistricting plan, a step they say could boost their position in a wider national redistricting fight tied to President Donald Trump. But the Virginia attorney general said Wednesday it will appeal a ruling that ordered the results not be certified, leaving the state Supreme Court to weigh whether state Democratic leaders followed procedure.

U.S. Rep. David Scott, Georgia Democrat, dies at 80

2026-04-23

U.S. Rep. David Scott, a Georgia Democrat and the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, died Wednesday, his office said. He was 80. The White House lowered flags to half-staff after his death.

HBO Max and Paramount+ on 1 platform: What a Warner-Paramount deal could mean

2026-04-23

HBO Max, “Harry Potter” and CNN may soon sit under a new corporate roof if Paramount’s planned acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery clears regulatory review. On Thursday, shareholders approved an $81 billion sale of Warner Bros. Discovery, valuing the buyout at nearly $111 billion including debt. The deal would combine streaming brands and give Paramount greater reach in movies and U.S. news.

Senate advances budget plan to fund ICE and Border Patrol, sending it to House

2026-04-23

The Senate on Thursday voted to adopt a budget plan to fund U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol for three years, the first steps in a new effort to reopen the Department of Homeland Security. Republicans used the budget-reconciliation process to move the measure despite Democratic objections, and sent the plan to the House after a final vote early Thursday morning.

Leading candidates for California governor clash in debate over homelessness, taxes

2026-04-23

A televised debate among six leading candidates for California governor showed sharp partisan divides on issues including homelessness and taxes, with Democrats also competing to stand apart in a crowded race. The contenders said Democrats will fight President Donald Trump in the heavily Democratic state, while Republicans blamed Democratic rule for the state’s problems.

Cassidy weighs RFK Jr. vaccine rollback amid Louisiana reelection fight

2026-04-23

Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy questioned Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in two Senate hearings on affordability, fraud and vaccine-preventable diseases, while also managing political fallout ahead of a competitive GOP primary. As a liver doctor who supported Kennedy’s nomination last year, Cassidy pressed Kennedy on issues including measles outbreaks and the administration’s approach to chemical abortion drugs.

Appeals court blocks California law requiring federal agents to wear ID

2026-04-23

A federal appeals court blocked a California law requiring federal immigration agents to wear identification, dealing another setback to the state’s efforts to limit enforcement tactics by the Trump administration. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued an injunction pending appeal, saying the law “attempts to directly regulate the United States in its performance of governmental functions.”

Burt Jones’ record becomes a battleground in Georgia GOP governor primary

2026-04-23

ATLANTA (AP) — Burt Jones is leaning on his work in the Georgia Senate as he challenges Rick Jackson in a contentious Republican primary for governor, after President Donald Trump endorsed Jones last year. Jones has used his legislative leadership to pursue proposals targeting Jackson’s company and has run television ads attacking Jackson on that record, while Jackson argues Jones’ actions show corruption.

Josh Shapiro tests political power in Pennsylvania’s midterms

2026-04-23

Josh Shapiro, the Democratic governor of Pennsylvania, is using this year’s midterm campaign to rally support for Democrats at the top of the ticket and down the ballot, aiming to win control of the state legislature and help shape the party’s slate in competitive congressional primaries. Speaking to Democrats in Lock Haven, Shapiro said his focus is on beating his opponent for governor and on sending a message to Donald Trump. His effort includes backing endorsed candidates in Pennsylvania House and U.S. House primary contests that Democrats hope to flip.

Kalshi fines and suspends three congressional candidates for self-betting

2026-04-23

Kalshi said it fined and suspended three congressional candidates for betting on their own election outcomes on its prediction-market platform, according to disciplinary documents. Mark Moran, Ezekiel Enriquez and Matt Klein all received five-year suspensions, while Klein and Enriquez agreed to settlements and Moran did not.

US weighs plan to move Afghans from Qatar to third country

2026-04-23

The Trump administration is considering sending more than 1,000 Afghan allies who helped the U.S. war effort and relatives of U.S. service members held in Qatar to a third country, U.S. officials and advocates said. The proposal includes Congo as an option, with the State Department saying it is working to “voluntarily” resettle the group but not confirming where.

Trump administration flies 10-year-old back from Cuba amid custody fight

2026-04-23

President Donald Trump’s administration sent a government plane to Cuba to return a 10-year-old from Utah amid a custody dispute tied to the child’s gender identity, the Associated Press reported. Federal and state authorities had sought the child’s return after a family member raised concerns the child had been taken to Havana for gender-affirming surgery. The government plane carried the 10-year-old back to the child’s biological mother, federal prosecutors said.

California lawmakers advance bills to protect patients in ICE custody

2026-04-23

California lawmakers are pursuing two bills aimed at limiting how federal immigration enforcement officers interact with people brought to hospitals while in ICE custody, with supporters citing difficulties families and attorneys face in locating hospitalized detainees. The proposals in the Senate would seek to restrict “blackout policies,” require notice and visitation rules for patients, and set expectations for staff when agents are present, the Associated Press reported. The federal Department of Homeland Security did not respond to a request for comment.

California lawmakers seek to raise elderly parole age for sex offenders

2026-04-23

California lawmakers are pushing bills that would tighten “elderly parole” rules for some sex offenders after two men were found suitable for release in 2025. The proposals would raise the earliest parole age for inmates with life sentences and expand additional psychological screening requirements.

Houston amends ordinance limiting ICE cooperation after Abbott funding threat

2026-04-23

Houston city leaders amended an ordinance limiting how police cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott threatened to withhold public-safety grants. The original ordinance, passed on a 2-week timeline, removed a requirement that officers wait 30 minutes for ICE agents to pick up people detained on nonjudicial administrative warrants.

DeSantis signs Florida law banning local DEI funding; white men ‘disfavored’

2026-04-23

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation prohibiting counties and cities from funding or promoting diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, arguing at a news conference that such programs discriminate against white men. NAACP Gainesville President Evelyn Foxx said DeSantis’s remarks do not reflect what people experience and accused the governor of being out of touch.

Bipartisan bill would let SNAP benefits buy rotisserie chicken

2026-04-23

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators introduced the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act, seeking to make rotisserie chicken an eligible purchase under SNAP, the federal grocery assistance program. The proposal would reverse a longstanding rule that SNAP benefits cannot be used for hot prepared foods bought from the grocery store.

Gates Foundation reviewing Epstein ties after emails raise questions

2026-04-23

The Gates Foundation said Wednesday it is reviewing its ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as emails made public in a Justice Department case have renewed scrutiny of chairman Bill Gates. The review was commissioned in March and will assess past engagement with Epstein and current policies for vetting new partnerships, the foundation said.

Lawsuit alleges Alaska officials’ voter-data sharing with DOJ violates state constitution

2026-04-23

Voting and civil rights groups sued Alaska election officials in state court, alleging the state violated its constitution by sharing the state’s full voter registration list with the U.S. Department of Justice. The suit, filed against Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom and Division of Elections Director Carol Beecher, argues the sharing infringes voters’ privacy rights and violates due process by letting the DOJ flag voters for removal without notice or a process to challenge decisions.

New York Times says FBI probed reporter after story on Kash Patel’s girlfriend

2026-04-23

NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Times said the FBI investigated whether a reporter, Elizabeth Williamson, violated laws against stalking after she published a story about federal agents assigned to protect and transport FBI Director Kash Patel’s girlfriend. The FBI said its agents interviewed Patel’s girlfriend, country singer Alexis Wilkins, when she expressed concern about a death threat after Williamson’s article was published, and took no further action.

Trump’s economy approval slips in AP-NORC poll as Iran-war prices rise

2026-04-22

President Donald Trump’s approval on the economy fell to 30% in April, according to a new AP-NORC poll conducted April 16-20, as the Iran war pushed up prices and muddied Americans’ cost-of-living outlook. The survey found a similarly low 32% approval for Trump’s handling of Iran, and said even Republicans showed weakening confidence.

Trump’s Fed nominee Kevin Warsh vows to curb inflation despite rate-cut push

2026-04-22

Kevin Warsh, President Donald Trump’s nominee to chair the Federal Reserve, told senators Tuesday that he never promised the White House he would cut interest rates, even as Trump renews calls for the central bank to do so. Warsh made the remarks during a Senate Banking Committee hearing focused on whether he can balance political pressure with an inflation-fighting mandate.

RFK Jr. deflects blame on vaccines as HHS budget cuts draw scrutiny

2026-04-22

RFK Jr., the U.S. health secretary, wrapped up a marathon set of congressional hearings in which lawmakers pressed him on falling childhood vaccination rates, measles outbreaks and proposed cuts to the Department of Health and Human Services. In testimony that spanned multiple House and Senate committees, he blamed broader factors for vaccination declines, called some cuts “painful” but said they were needed to address the federal government’s record $39 trillion deficit, and pointed to administration initiatives he said could reduce health-care costs.

Democrats win Virginia map vote, but redistricting fights move to courts

2026-04-22

Democrats celebrated an election win in Virginia that sets up new U.S. House districts, but the state attorney general’s office said it will immediately appeal a judge’s order blocking certification. The Virginia Supreme Court is expected to decide whether Democrats violated procedural rules when they sent a constitutional amendment to voters, and what happens next in Florida could further shape the national redistricting contest.

Rep. David Scott, Georgia Democrat, dies at 80

2026-04-22

U.S. Rep. David Scott, a Georgia Democrat and the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, has died at age 80, the Associated Press reported April 22. Scott was seeking his 13th term despite facing challenges within his party and concerns that his declining health limited his campaign travel. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and other Democrats praised Scott’s decades in Congress, including his work tied to farm policy and historically Black schools.

What a secret bunker means for White House East Wing demolition

2026-04-22

A federal appeals court has allowed President Donald Trump to continue work on a planned White House ballroom even as litigation continues over the project, which is set to include security facilities beneath the East Wing site. The case has offered a rare glimpse of a bunker concept tied to the White House’s underground “continuity” plans.

HBO Max and Paramount+ to merge under Paramount if Warner deal clears

2026-04-22

Shareholders of Warner Bros. Discovery on Thursday approved an $81 billion sale to Paramount, a deal valued at nearly $111 billion including debt that would combine HBO Max with Paramount+ into a single streaming platform, AP reported. The proposed megamerger would also bring Warner’s Discovery+ and broadcast cable networks under the Paramount umbrella, and would place CNN under the same ownership as CBS, while regulatory review remains pending.

Bipartisan Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act would let SNAP cover prepared meals

2026-04-22

WASHINGTON (AP) — A bipartisan group of U.S. senators introduced the Hot Rotisserie Chicken Act to make rotisserie chicken and other prepared foods eligible for purchase under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as SNAP. The bill would replace a long-standing rule that bars SNAP benefits from paying for hot, ready-to-eat items from grocery stores. Sen. John Fetterman, a Democrat, said the proposal would help families buy convenient, protein-forward options, while Sen. Jim Justice, a Republican, called it a way to put food on the table without long cooking times.

Senate advances budget plan to fund ICE, Border Patrol and reopen DHS

2026-04-22

In Washington, the Senate voted early Thursday to adopt a budget plan that would fund U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol through the next three years, sending the resolution to the House. The action was taken after the Department of Homeland Security has been shut down since mid-February while Democrats sought policy changes following fatal shootings of two protesters by federal agents.

Senate votes to restart bid to fund DHS and end partial shutdown

2026-04-22

The Senate voted 52-46 on Tuesday to launch a new effort to reopen the Department of Homeland Security and end the longest partial government shutdown in history, setting up a pathway Republicans hope will fund Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Border Patrol. Republicans said they will use the budget reconciliation process, while Democrats argued the approach would pour money into immigration enforcement without reforms after fatal shootings of two protesters by federal agents.

Trump nominates Christopher Phelan to chair the Council of Economic Advisers

2026-04-22

President Donald Trump nominated University of Minnesota economist Christopher Phelan on Tuesday to be the next chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers. If confirmed by the Senate, Phelan would succeed Stephen Miran, who moved from the council to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors last September.

Kalshi fines and suspends 3 candidates for betting on own elections

2026-04-22

Kalshi has fined and suspended three congressional candidates for placing wagers on prediction markets related to their own elections, the company said Wednesday. The sanctions involved independent Senate candidate Mark Moran in Virginia, Republican primary contender Ezekiel Enriquez for a House seat in Texas, and Minnesota Democratic state Sen. Matt Klein, who was running for a House seat.

Calvin Duncan is sworn in as Orleans clerk as lawmakers move to abolish post

2026-04-22

Calvin Duncan, who beat incumbent Darren Lombard in the Orleans Parish criminal court clerk race last November, was sworn in Tuesday on the steps of the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court. He is expected to take office May 4, unless Louisiana lawmakers and Republican Gov. Jeff Landry eliminate the position. A state bill would consolidate the parish’s civil and criminal court clerks’ offices and make the civil clerk oversee the combined system.

Appeals court blocks California law requiring federal agents wear ID

2026-04-22

A federal appeals court on Wednesday blocked a California law requiring federal immigration agents to wear identification, issuing an injunction pending appeal. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said the measure improperly targeted the federal government’s performance of governmental functions. California had argued the ID requirement was needed for public safety and would apply to law enforcement generally.

As RFK Jr. faced the Senate, Sen. Cassidy weighed vaccines and politics

2026-04-22

Louisiana Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy used two Senate hearings Wednesday to press Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on childhood vaccines and related health policy, drawing on his background as a liver doctor while also managing fallout in a tight Louisiana primary race. Cassidy questioned Kennedy about affordability, alleged fraud, abortion drugs and the rise of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, while also pointing to declining vaccine trust and expected outbreaks. Political analysts said how Cassidy handled the hearings could shape his reelection prospects as President Donald Trump backed one of Cassidy’s GOP primary opponents.

49 new Americans sworn in on Lexington’s Battle Green

2026-04-22

Lexington, Massachusetts, held a naturalization ceremony on the town’s Battle Green on April 22, with 49 people sworn in as U.S. citizens on the Revolutionary War battlefield where “the shot heard round the world” was fired. Steve Cole, a reenactor who plays Capt. John Parker at the annual Battle Green reenactment, told the new citizens, “No matter where you come from, here you belong.” U.S. Magistrate Judge Paul G. Levenson administered the Oath of Allegiance and said the oath is to the Constitution.

California Senate bills aim to stop ICE officers isolating hospitalized patients

2026-04-22

California lawmakers advanced two bills to protect patients held in Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody after concerns that federal agents can isolate patients from families and attorneys and interfere with care. The proposals would limit “blackout” practices, require facilities to better facilitate communication and visitation, and direct staff to document when agents refuse to leave exam and treatment discussions.

Gerrymandering has a long history in US politics, but the limits remain unclear

2026-04-22

The practice of redrawing U.S. House districts for political advantage—often called gerrymandering—has been part of American politics for more than two centuries. A new round of mid-decade redistricting battles in states has renewed questions about how often lawmakers can redraw maps and whether courts can stop them. A key U.S. Supreme Court ruling says federal courts lack an objective way to decide when partisan gerrymandering goes too far.

Trump extends Iran ceasefire indefinitely after Pakistan request

2026-04-22

President Donald Trump said Tuesday the United States will indefinitely extend its ceasefire with Iran, a day before it was set to expire, after Pakistan requested the change. He said the extension comes as a new round of U.S.-Iran peace talks is on hold, while both countries issue warnings about what could happen if no deal is reached.

Missouri judge orders lawmaker to get back salary tied to censure

2026-04-22

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — A Missouri judge has ruled that a former state lawmaker can recoup thousands of dollars seized from his salary after lawmakers censured him over sexual misconduct allegations. The decision, issued late last week by Cole County Circuit Judge Brian Stumpe, found the Missouri House lacked authority to levy fines or recoup costs after the House’s ethics process recommended punishment in December 2020.

Flu vaccine no longer mandated for U.S. troops, Hegseth says

2026-04-22

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Tuesday the U.S. military will no longer require all American troops to get the flu vaccine, citing “medical autonomy” and religious freedom. In a video he posted online, Hegseth said service members would be free to get the vaccine but would not be forced “because your body, your faith and your convictions are not negotiable.”

Democrat Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick resigns before House ethics hearing

2026-04-22

Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of Florida resigned on Tuesday moments before the start of a House ethics hearing that could have recommended she be expelled from Congress, according to the Associated Press. The House Ethics Committee had concluded recently that she violated federal laws and House rules, as support from her party grew uncertain.

US judge blocks Doug Burgum from slowing wind and solar on federal land

2026-04-22

A federal judge in Massachusetts on Tuesday struck down several Trump administration actions that slowed clean-energy development, including a requirement that solar and wind projects on federal lands and waters receive personal approval from Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. Chief Judge Denise J. Casper issued a preliminary injunction, saying wind and solar developers were likely to succeed on claims that the administration’s actions violate federal law and could cause irreparable harm.

Navy reviews Ford-class carrier design, leaving future versions uncertain

2026-04-22

The U.S. Navy is reviewing the design and costs of the Ford-class aircraft carrier and its top uniformed leader, Navy Secretary John Phelan, said Tuesday the review could affect future versions. Phelan told reporters the assessment will examine whether the Ford-class system designs and costs “make sense,” including the carrier’s ability to launch and retrieve aircraft, and he said the Navy expects to have carriers regardless.

Virginia voters approve mid-decade redistricting plan with legal fight ahead

2026-04-22

Virginia voters approved a mid-decade congressional redistricting plan on Tuesday, backing a constitutional amendment that Democrats say could help them win as many as four additional U.S. House seats in November’s midterm elections. The state Supreme Court is weighing a legal challenge that could determine whether the referendum result stands.

Ex-Trump aide Carter Page settles with Justice Department for $1.25M

2026-04-22

The Justice Department has reached a $1.25 million settlement with Carter Page, a former adviser to President Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign who sued after saying he was the target of secret surveillance during the FBI’s Russia investigation. The settlement was announced after Page’s appeal reached the Supreme Court, and the court filing did not disclose the dollar amount.

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer to leave Trump Cabinet

2026-04-22

WASHINGTON (AP) — Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer is leaving President Donald Trump’s Cabinet, the White House said Monday, after multiple allegations of abuse of power that included claims of an affair with a subordinate and drinking alcohol on the job. Keith Sonderling, the current deputy labor secretary, will become acting labor secretary in her place, a White House communications director said.

Many Haitian migrants leave Tapachula caravan, now seeking safety cities in Mexico

2026-04-22

Hundreds of migrants, most of them from Haiti, left Tapachula, Mexico, on foot Tuesday, but many said they no longer see the United States as a realistic destination. They described difficulties getting responses on asylum claims while waiting in the southern border city and said they were instead aiming for large Mexican cities where they could work and seek protection.

Immigration officer charged with assault after protest, DA says

2026-04-22

An immigration officer in Colorado has been charged with third-degree assault and criminal mischief after a protest outside a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, the Durango district attorney said. The case follows allegations that the officer grabbed and put a protester, Franci Stagi, in a chokehold during an October demonstration.

California governor debate spotlights homelessness, social media and billionaire candidate

2026-04-22

Six leading candidates for California governor faced off in a televised debate on April 22, 2026, in Los Angeles. The discussion highlighted stark partisan divides over homelessness, youth social‑media bans, and the role of billionaire Tom Steyer’s wealth in the race. With California’s top‑two primary system threatening a possible two‑Republican runoff, Democrats scrambled to differentiate themselves amid a crowded field.

US considers sending Afghans from Qatar to a third country

2026-04-22

Washington is considering a plan to potentially move more than 1,000 Afghan allies and relatives of U.S. service members from a U.S. base in Qatar to a third country, according to the U.S. government and advocates. The State Department is working to identify “voluntary” resettlement options but has not confirmed which nations are under discussion.

Burt Jones' record becomes battleground against Rick Jackson in Georgia GOP primary

2026-04-22

Burt Jones, the Trump-endorsed lieutenant governor of Georgia, is leaning on his legislative record as he faces rival Rick Jackson in a bruising Republican primary for governor. The campaign battle has included Jones-backed efforts tied to Jackson Healthcare and sharp attacks in ads over Jackson’s role in state health-care contracting. The May 19 contest also unfolds amid ongoing disputes in Georgia over election equipment and possible special legislative action.

New York Times says FBI interviewed reporter after girlfriend story

2026-04-22

The New York Times said the FBI investigated whether one of its reporters, Elizabeth Williamson, violated laws against stalking after she wrote a story about federal agents assigned to protect and drive FBI Director Kash Patel’s girlfriend. The FBI said agents interviewed Alexis Wilkins after Wilkins expressed concern about a death threat, but took no further action.

Houston amends ICE cooperation ordinance after Abbott threatens funding

2026-04-22

Houston City Council amended a recently passed ordinance that limited some police cooperation with federal immigration agents after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott warned the city could lose public-safety grants. Council members voted 13-4 on Wednesday, with Mayor John Whitmire citing a need to protect about $114 million tied to the World Cup and other security funding.

Gates Foundation to review Epstein ties as Bill Gates faces scrutiny

2026-04-22

The Gates Foundation is reviewing its ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the organization said Wednesday, as newly released documents related to the Justice Department’s investigation draw more scrutiny to chairman Bill Gates. The foundation’s CEO Mark Suzman, with support from Gates, commissioned an external review in March to assess past engagement and to update policies for vetting and developing new partnerships.

Alaska groups sue over sharing full voter list with DOJ

2026-04-22

Voting and civil rights groups sued Alaska election officials, alleging they violated the state constitution by sharing the state’s full voter registration list with the U.S. Department of Justice. The lawsuit, filed in state court against officials including Republican Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom and election division Director Carol Beecher, challenges a memorandum of understanding they say allows the Justice Department to flag voters for removal without notice or a process to challenge the decisions.

DeSantis signs Florida law banning local DEI funding, says white men ‘disfavored’

2026-04-22

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill on Wednesday that bans counties and cities from funding or promoting diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, arguing that DEI programs have discriminated against white men. Speaking after the signing, DeSantis said white men have been “discriminated against” through what he called an “ideological construct” designed to promote a political agenda. The NAACP branch president in Gainesville, Evelyn Foxx, criticized the comments as out of touch.

Diaspora members fear Pope’s visit could bolster Equatorial Guinea leader

2026-04-22

More than a dozen Equatorial Guinea Catholics who fled abuses abroad say Pope Leo XIV’s visit risks giving President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo new legitimacy amid longtime allegations of repression. In interviews, some said the Vatican trip could serve as image repair for a government accused by activists of rights abuses, even as the Vatican and church leaders say they will emphasize justice.

Trump’s Cuba threats revive exile hopes and fears over property claims

2026-04-22

Cuban exiles say President Donald Trump’s renewed threats toward Cuba have revived hopes for political change, while also raising fears that claims to property seized after Fidel Castro took power in 1959 could be sidelined in any broader deal. Lawyers and property owners say negotiations between Washington and Havana will need to address a maze of legal claims and statutes, including the Helms-Burton law.

Wife of U.S. Army sergeant detained by ICE in El Paso

2026-04-22

The wife of a U.S. Army sergeant is being held by ICE at a detention facility in El Paso, Texas, while she challenges the case in federal court, according to her husband and her attorney. Jose Serrano, who said he served three tours in Afghanistan, said immigration agents arrested his wife April 14 during an immigration appointment. The case comes as DHS has moved to end a policy that treated military service in a family as a mitigating factor in immigration enforcement.

Taiwan postpones Eswatini trip after route permits canceled amid China pressure

2026-04-22

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te postponed a visit to Eswatini this week after three countries along his Africa route withdrew permission for his plane to fly over their territories, his office said Tuesday. Eswatini is Taiwan’s sole remaining diplomatic ally in Africa, and Lai had been scheduled to visit April 22-26, according to his office.

Trump says he’d welcome buyer for Spirit Airlines, suggests possible aid

2026-04-22

President Donald Trump said Tuesday he would welcome a buyer for Spirit Airlines and suggested the federal government could help keep the low-cost carrier afloat. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy later told reporters the president directed the Transportation Department to review possible options for potential relief.

Southern Poverty Law Center indicted on federal fraud charges

2026-04-22

The Southern Poverty Law Center, a U.S. civil rights group, was indicted Tuesday on federal fraud charges alleging it improperly paid informants to infiltrate extremist groups without disclosing the payments to donors, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said. The Justice Department alleges the center used donor money in ways it described as aimed at dismantling extremism, while prosecutors say the money funded informant-linked activity by extremist groups. The center’s CEO Bryan Fair denied the allegations, saying the payments supported confidential informants used to monitor threats of violence and that the information was shared with law enforcement.

UK faces cyberattacks from Russia, Iran and China, warns NCSC chief

2026-04-22

UK cyber chief Richard Horne warned at a CyberUK conference in Glasgow that the most serious cyberattacks against the country are now carried out by hostile nations including Russia, Iran and China. Horne, head of the National Cyber Security Centre, said the U.K. could face cyberattacks “at scale” in the event of an international conflict.

Peru election chief resigns amid logistical issues in disputed vote

2026-04-22

Peru’s head of the national election agency resigned Tuesday, citing logistical problems during the April 12 presidential election in a bitterly disputed race. Piero Corvetto said the issues prompted his resignation as the country heads toward a June 7 runoff.

Japan lifts ban on lethal arms exports in shift from postwar pacifism

2026-04-22

Japan approved Tuesday the removal of a ban on exporting lethal weapons, a Cabinet decision that rewrites parts of the country’s postwar pacifist approach as it seeks to strengthen its defense industry amid concerns about aggression from China and North Korea.

Georgia State Patrol fires troopers over alleged insurance payouts

2026-04-22

ATLANTA — Georgia State Patrol fired three troopers and their supervisor after an internal investigation found they violated department policy and ethical standards by allegedly seeking personal-injury payouts tied to high-speed pursuits, according to the agency. The probe started in January after another trooper reported hearing jokes about which chases would qualify for a “check,” the Department of Public Safety said.

Dr. Oz announces a Medicaid audit in all 50 states

2026-04-22

Dr. Mehmet Oz, a Trump administration health official, said the federal government will require all 50 states to explain their plans to revalidate some Medicaid providers as part of a broader anti-fraud push. The request is expected to ask states to share their strategies within 30 days, after an earlier focus on a handful of states.

Trump reads “If my people” verse in Bible marathon tied to America 250

2026-04-22

President Donald Trump joined a weeklong Bible-reading marathon on Tuesday, reading a passage from 2 Chronicles in a livestream that was part of an America 250-themed effort tied to a “return to the spiritual foundation” of the United States. The scriptural verse—“If my people, which are called by my name…”—has been promoted for decades at National Day of Prayer events and is often used to argue for a Christian nation.

New AI app CivicLoon aims to make Minnesota bills easier to read

2026-04-22

CivicLoon, a new app using artificial intelligence, is designed to translate Minnesota legislation and related coverage into plain-language summaries for voters, including the ability to support multiple languages. Its developer, Colin Lee, said the app is meant to narrow the gap between what lawmakers do at the Minnesota Capitol and what constituents can understand as the session nears its end.

CIA says U.S. officials who died in Mexico crash were agency workers

2026-04-22

U.S. officials were working for the CIA when two of them died in a vehicle crash in northern Mexico while returning from a mission to destroy a clandestine drug lab, AP reported, citing a U.S. official and other people familiar with the case. Mexican authorities said two Mexican investigators also were killed during a convoy returning from an operation targeting drug-lab operations in the state of Chihuahua.

Hawaii auditor warns of control gaps in homeless tiny home payments

2026-04-22

Auditor Les Kondo said in a letter to Hawaii lawmakers and the state human services director that the state’s tiny home initiative for people experiencing homelessness has accounting and internal-control deficiencies that need “immediate attention by those in governance.” Kondo wrote that payments to HomeAid Hawai‘i have cost taxpayers nearly $40 million so far, and that his office identified invoices that were inconsistent with state requirements, including more than $900,000 lacking substantiation and travel and meal costs he said “appear inconsistent” with state policies.

Investigation finds former Ohio State president violated university policy

2026-04-22

Ohio State University said an investigation found former president Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. violated school policy by trying to help a woman with whom he had a close personal relationship get a job and access to university resources. The board commissioned the inquiry after Carter’s resignation in the wake of allegations about an inappropriate relationship, the university said in a report released Tuesday.

Japan scraps ban on lethal weapons exports in postwar policy shift

2026-04-22

Japan on Tuesday scrapped a ban on lethal weapons exports, approving new guidelines that mark a major change to the country’s postwar pacifist policy as it seeks to strengthen its arms industry. The cabinet approved by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi clears hurdles for arms sales, including Japanese-developed warships and combat drones, with approvals also shaped by national security review. Chinese and Japanese critics warned the change could increase tensions, while Japanese officials said it will help ensure safety and build an industrial base for defense resilience.

Starmer faces new fallout after Robbins details Mandelson’s vetting

2026-04-22

LONDON (AP) — A former senior British official testified to Parliament that Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office pushed for Peter Mandelson to be approved as Britain’s ambassador to Washington even though security vetting had not been completed. Olly Robbins, Starmer’s former foreign office head who was fired last week, told lawmakers Tuesday that Downing Street showed “dismissive” attitudes toward security checks and focused on getting Mandelson into post quickly.

Trump to read from 2 Chronicles during marathon Bible event for America 250

2026-04-22

President Donald Trump will read an Old Testament passage during a weeklong, livestreamed marathon Bible event tied to America 250, the AP reported. The reading from 2 Chronicles 7:14 calls for national repentance and is being broadcast from the Museum of the Bible in Washington and other locations.

Six California governor candidates clash in debate over homelessness, taxes

2026-04-21

A televised debate among six leading candidates for California governor on Wednesday highlighted sharp divides over homelessness, wildfire insurance, taxes and other issues, with Democrats trying to differentiate themselves in a crowded, unsettled race. California’s June 2 primary will decide which two candidates advance to the general election after mail ballots are sent beginning in early May.

Trump’s Cuba threats revive exile hopes and fears over property claims

2026-04-21

Cuban exiles are weighing renewed hope and worry as President Donald Trump threatens military action against Cuba and pressures negotiations between Washington and Havana, with property-seizure claims from after Fidel Castro’s 1959 takeover at the center of talks. Lawyers and landowners in exile say the claims could span hundreds of thousands of people, and that any settlement could determine whether they receive compensation. (Associated Press)

As RFK Jr. faced the Senate, Bill Cassidy balanced politics and science

2026-04-21

In two Senate hearings on Wednesday, Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy questioned Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about his plan to roll back the nation’s childhood vaccine recommendations, while Cassidy also weighed the risks to his own reelection campaign in Louisiana. Cassidy, a physician who has supported Kennedy’s nomination, pressed Kennedy on issues including affordability, fraud, chemical abortion drugs and the rise of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles.

Human Rights Campaign targets battleground districts in 2026 midterms

2026-04-21

The Human Rights Campaign is investing $15 million in the 2026 midterm elections, directing the spending at Republicans in battleground House districts and supporting Democratic Senate candidates in several states, the group said. In an Associated Press interview, HRC president Kelley Robinson said the effort aims to shift messaging and regain footing after recent campaign and courtroom setbacks over LGBTQ+ rights.

Deadly domestic violence cases stir calls for more care resources for Black communities

2026-04-21

Fatal domestic violence cases in Louisiana and Virginia have prompted calls for more prevention resources for Black communities and for expanded mental health and support services, the Associated Press reported. In Shreveport, Louisiana, police identified Shamar Elkins as shooting seven of his children and another child. In suburban Washington, D.C., police said former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax shot his estranged wife, Dr. Cerina Fairfax, and then himself.

Pope Leo XIV tells Equatorial Guinea inmates “You are not alone” on prison visit

2026-04-21

Pope Leo XIV visited a prison in Equatorial Guinea’s port city of Bata on Wednesday, telling inmates in Spanish that “You are not alone” and promising that the Church would stand by them. The visit came at the end of the pope’s four-nation Africa tour and drew attention to prison conditions and human rights abuses that campaigners have long criticized.

Wife of U.S. Army sergeant detained in El Paso immigration facility

2026-04-21

The wife of a U.S. Army sergeant was being held Tuesday at an immigration detention facility in El Paso, Texas, after agents arrested her during a visit related to immigration paperwork, according to her husband. Her case has moved to U.S. District Court, where her attorney has sought an order to block her removal to Mexico.

DOJ subpoenas witnesses as Brennan investigation advances

2026-04-21

The Justice Department has subpoenaed witnesses to testify before a federal grand jury in Washington as part of its investigation into former CIA Director John Brennan, according to three people familiar with the matter. The subpoenas were issued in recent days, indicating prosecutors are pressing forward with the months-old inquiry despite a key prosecutor's recent departure. The investigation centers on a 2023 congressional hearing where Brennan testified about the intelligence community's assessment of Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election — a case that has become a flashpoint in ongoing disputes over that election.

Patel sues Atlantic for $250M over drinking allegations

2026-04-21

FBI Director Kash Patel sued The Atlantic magazine for $250 million Monday in federal court in Washington, accusing the publication of defamation over an article that alleged excessive drinking and mismanagement. The Atlantic said it stands by its reporting and will vigorously defend against what it called a "meritless lawsuit."

Elon Musk summoned to Paris in X child-abuse and deepfake investigation

2026-04-20

Elon Musk has been summoned to Paris for Monday by French prosecutors investigating allegations of child sexual abuse material and deepfakes on the social media platform X, the Paris prosecutor's office said. Linda Yaccarino, X's former chief executive, has also been summoned for what prosecutors describe as "voluntary interviews."

Supreme Court takes up Catholic preschool funding case

2026-04-20

The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear a case from two Colorado Catholic preschools challenging their exclusion from the state's taxpayer-funded universal preschool program because they refuse to admit children from LGBTQ+ families. The case, brought by St. Mary Catholic Parish and the Archdiocese of Denver, marks the latest religious-liberty dispute before the conservative-majority court, with backing from the Trump administration. The schools argue Colorado violates their constitutional rights to operate according to their faith, while the state says religious schools are welcome to participate if they comply with nondiscrimination laws.

Tax bills loom for wildfire survivors accepting settlement payouts

2026-04-20

Thousands of survivors from the 2025 Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, who accepted settlement payments from the utility accused of sparking the disaster now face federal tax bills that could consume significant portions of their funds. Unless Congress passes pending legislation, the survivors could lose tens of thousands of dollars to taxes, at a time when construction costs have soared and many are struggling with insurance complications.

Cuba confirms US talks, demands embargo lifted

2026-04-20

Cuba's government confirmed Monday it had recently met with U.S. State Department officials on the island in early April—the first such diplomatic engagement since 2016—as both sides remain at odds over the U.S. energy blockade. Senior Cuban officials led by Alejandro García del Toro, deputy director general for U.S. affairs at the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs, met with an American delegation that included assistant secretaries of state. García del Toro said the exchange was conducted "respectfully and professionally" and that the U.S. delegation "did not issue any threats or deadlines."

Pennsylvania constitution protects abortion rights, court rules

2026-04-20

A Pennsylvania appellate court on Monday struck down a four-decade-old law banning the use of state Medicaid funds for abortions, ruling that the state constitution guarantees a right to reproductive autonomy. The seven-judge Commonwealth Court panel's decision marks the first time Pennsylvania's constitution is explicitly recognized as protecting abortion access, joining a handful of states that have secured reproductive protections through state constitutional analysis. The case will likely be appealed to Pennsylvania's Supreme Court.

US seizes Iranian cargo ship near Strait of Hormuz; Iran threatens response

2026-04-20

The United States Navy attacked and seized an Iranian-flagged cargo ship near the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday as it attempted to breach a U.S. naval blockade, according to President Donald Trump and the military. Iran's Joint Military Command called the boarding piracy and a violation of a ceasefire set to expire Wednesday, raising doubts about planned diplomatic talks in Pakistan scheduled to begin Monday. The seizure marks the first naval intercept since the U.S. began blockading Iranian ports last week, escalating a standoff that has already killed thousands in a conflict now in its eighth week.

Pope urges U.S. voters to demand end to Iran war during Africa tour

2026-04-20

Pope Leo XIV made an unprecedented direct appeal on April 7 to American voters to contact their representatives and demand an end to the Iran war. The appeal marks the Vatican's most direct political intervention in U.S. affairs since the Cuban Missile Crisis and comes amid escalating tension with President Trump over the pope's peace messaging during a four-nation Africa tour.

Magyar announces Cabinet after Hungary landslide election win

2026-04-20

Péter Magyar announced his incoming government's first Cabinet members on Monday in Budapest, following his center-right Tisza party's landslide election victory over Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Magyar secured a two-thirds parliamentary majority with 141 of 199 seats, positioning his party to reverse much of Orbán's 16-year governance.

Gunman kills Canadian tourist at Teotihuacán pyramids, injures 13

2026-04-20

An armed man opened fire on tourists at Teotihuacán pyramids Monday, killing one Canadian and wounding at least 13 others at the archaeological site north of Mexico City, authorities said. The gunman was identified as 27-year-old Julio Cesar Jasso of Mexico, a state official told the Associated Press on condition of anonymity. He later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Wyoming governor directs state funding for summer meal assistance

2026-04-20

Gov. Mark Gordon signed an executive order Wednesday directing the state to implement a federal summer meal assistance program for Wyoming children, moving unilaterally after the legislature rejected the initiative three times in as many years. The order, Executive Order 2026-02, directs the Department of Family Services to begin the SUN Bucks program in June, providing $120 per eligible child to purchase groceries during the three-month summer break when school meals are unavailable. "While the Legislature was unwilling to make sure our young children get food throughout the summer months," Gordon said in announcing the move, "we have stepped up to ensure it happens."

George Ariyoshi, first Asian American governor, dies at 100

2026-04-20

Former Hawaii Gov. George R. Ariyoshi, the nation's first Asian American governor, died peacefully Sunday night at age 100, surrounded by family, Gov. Josh Green announced Monday. Ariyoshi's three-term tenure from 1973 to 1986 spanned a transformative period in Hawaiian history, as the state navigated rapid population growth and the emergence of tourism as an economic force.

Betty Yee suspends California governor campaign amid fundraising struggles

2026-04-20

Betty Yee, a former California state controller, suspended her campaign for governor on Monday, citing insufficient donor support. Yee, who sought to become the state's first female governor, withdrew from the race just over a week after fellow Democrat Eric Swalwell left the contest following sexual assault allegations he denies.

After its dominant newspaper is saved, Pittsburgh’s media looks ahead

2026-04-20

Pittsburgh media has pivoted from a looming shutdown to a possible reshaping after new ownership moves saved the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and revived the Pittsburgh City Paper. Owners of the Post-Gazette announced a sale to a nonprofit foundation, while the City Paper returned under new ownership after learning on New Year’s Day it was closing.

Deadly domestic violence cases stir calls for more care resources

2026-04-20

Domestic violence killings of Black mothers in Louisiana and Virginia have renewed debate about access to prevention services and mental health care for Black communities. In Shreveport, Louisiana, a man police identified as Shamar Elkins fatally shot seven of his children and another child, authorities said; in Annandale, Virginia, police found former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax and his estranged wife, Dr. Cerina Fairfax, dead, along with their children, in what they described as a murder-suicide.

Vermont seeks residents' input on Bennington Battle Monument restoration

2026-04-20

Vermont is hosting public meetings to gather resident feedback on the future of the 306-foot Bennington Battle Monument, which was saturated with 66,000 gallons of water and faces an estimated $40 million restoration bill. State officials announced meetings on April 29 and May 12 to discuss options for the iconic obelisk that commemorates the 1777 Battle of Bennington. The monument, the second-tallest unreinforced masonry structure in the United States after the Washington Monument, has become a test case for balancing historic preservation with fiscal reality. Its elevator remains non-functional, causing visits to the state's most-visited historic site to drop last year.

Animal welfare activists demand Wisconsin close beagle breeding facility

2026-04-20

More than 100 animal welfare activists gathered outside Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers' Capitol office Monday morning, chanting "Free the dogs!" and demanding that state officials take action against Ridglan Farms, a beagle breeding and research facility in rural Blue Mounds about 25 miles southwest of Madison. The Capitol protest followed a weekend clash at the facility Saturday in which an estimated 1,000 activists attempted to access the property, where approximately 2,000 beagles are housed.

Eight months in, Washington's National Guard deployment shows no end in sight

2026-04-20

The National Guard troops roaming Washington's streets, parks and metro stations arrived eight months ago as part of President Donald Trump's declared crime emergency. With more than 2,500 members still deployed and no announced endpoint, local officials and civil-rights advocates question the indefinite military presence in the nation's capital.

Peru's court sets May 15 deadline for naming presidential runoff finalists

2026-04-20

Peru's electoral tribunal on Monday set a May 15 deadline for the nation's elections agency to publish full vote tallies and name the two candidates advancing to a June 7 runoff. The April 12 presidential election saw more than 30 candidates competing for the presidency, with no contender securing more than half the votes needed to win outright.

Slovakia to hold referendum on lifelong payments for leaders

2026-04-20

Slovakia will hold a referendum on July 4 to decide whether to cancel lifelong payments for political leaders including Prime Minister Robert Fico, President Peter Pellegrini said Monday. Voters will simultaneously decide whether to reopen the special prosecutor's office, which handles major crime and corruption investigations. The dual referendum follows a petition organized by the opposition Democrats party and signed by more than 350,000 citizens.

Serbia risks losing €1.5B in EU funds over democratic backsliding

2026-04-20

The European Union warned Serbia on Monday that it could lose access to approximately 1.5 billion euros in development funding if the country does not halt democratic backsliding, according to EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos. International observers documented violence and irregularities during municipal elections in 10 Serbian towns last month, prompting the warning to Serbian lawmakers in Brussels.

Solar boom pushes renewables past coal in global power for first time

2026-04-20

Renewable energy sources surpassed coal as a share of global electricity generation for the first time in modern history in 2025, driven by record solar expansion in China and India, according to a comprehensive analysis by Ember, an energy research think tank. The milestone marks a turning point in the world's energy transition, with solar and wind combined meeting 99 percent of net growth in global electricity demand over the year.

US backs South Africa rare earths project to counter China

2026-04-20

The United States is investing $50 million in an experimental South African project designed to extract rare earth elements from mining waste, a central element of the Trump administration's strategy to reduce American reliance on Chinese supplies of minerals critical for defense systems, electronics, and electric vehicles.

Trump opposes state AI regulations, but Republican lawmakers push back

2026-04-19

The Trump administration is blocking state efforts to regulate artificial intelligence, but some Republican lawmakers are pushing forward with their own rules anyway. The conflict reflects a broader state-federal split over how to manage AI technology as public concern about its risks mounts, with eight in ten Americans saying they are concerned about artificial intelligence in a recent poll.

Radev's coalition leads Bulgaria election exit poll as power-sharing talks loom

2026-04-19

Bulgaria's center-left coalition led by former President Rumen Radev will win the country's parliamentary election, an exit poll suggested on Sunday, as voters in the European Union and NATO member state sought to end a cycle of political instability. The coalition appeared unlikely to claim enough votes to govern alone, suggesting protracted power-sharing negotiations ahead.

Starmer fights for job as Cabinet rallies over Mandelson vetting scandal

2026-04-19

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership faced fresh pressure on April 19 after revelations that the Foreign Office appointed Peter Mandelson to the critical position of U.S. ambassador despite intensive security vetting that recommended against the appointment in January 2025. Senior Cabinet ministers moved to support Starmer ahead of a Monday parliamentary confrontation where he is expected to defend his position.

Refund system opens for tariffs Trump imposed without authority

2026-04-19

A refund system for businesses to claim refunds for Trump administration tariffs that the U.S. Supreme Court struck down launched Monday, with importers and their brokers able to begin submitting claims through an online portal operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The court ruled in February that Trump imposed the tariffs without constitutional authority, and the agency estimated over 330,000 importers paid roughly $166 billion in tariffs.

Carney says Canada must reduce U.S. economic ties over Trump tariffs

2026-04-19

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called on his country to reduce economic dependence on the United States, releasing a 10-minute video address Sunday in which he described formerly close trade ties as a weakness that must be corrected. Carney cited Trump's tariffs—raised to levels unseen since the Great Depression—as evidence the U.S. approach to trade has fundamentally shifted.

Virginia referendum on redistricting could shift House control this fall

2026-04-19

Virginia holds a statewide special election Tuesday with a single ballot question on whether the Democratic-controlled General Assembly should temporarily redraw congressional districts. The measure’s outcome could affect which party controls the U.S. House for the final two years of President Donald Trump’s term, despite there being no candidates on the ballot.

Bribery scandal shadows Husted's Ohio Senate re-election bid

2026-04-19

Jon Husted, Ohio's Republican U.S. senator, is seeking re-election this fall in a campaign shadowed by a $60 million bribery scandal that has roiled state politics for more than five years. Husted was recently called to testify as a defense witness in the criminal trial of two former energy executives. A mistrial in March has set the stage for a retrial scheduled to begin Sept. 28, just weeks before the November elections.

Oil embargo silences Havana's nightlife as economic crisis deepens

2026-04-19

Havana's avenues sit empty at night. Theaters are closed, bars have lowered their curtains, and the streets that once thrummed with music fall silent under the weight of an oil embargo imposed by President Donald Trump and Cuba's most severe economic crisis in decades. International airlines including Air France, Air Canada, and Iberia have abandoned Havana because they cannot refuel there.

Russian attacks kill 1 in Ukraine; Ukrainian drones hit oil refineries

2026-04-19

Russian attacks on Ukraine killed one person and wounded at least 26 more on Friday, according to local officials, as Ukrainian drone strikes targeted major oil refineries in Russia's Samara region, escalating a months-long campaign against Russian energy infrastructure. The civilian death occurred in Mykolaivka in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, regional leader Vadym Filashkin said on social media. Attacks also damaged port infrastructure in the Black Sea city of Odesa. Ukrainian drones struck major oil refineries in Novokuibyshevsk and Syzran in Russia's Samara region on Friday, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said. The strikes sparked fires at the Vystosk oil terminal in Russia's northwestern Leningrad region and an oil refinery in the southern Krasnodar region, Ukrainian officials said. Russian officials later confirmed the blazes.

FBI and Justice Department ease hiring standards as staffing crisis deepens

2026-04-19

The FBI and Justice Department are scrambling to rebuild workforces depleted by a wave of resignations and departures over the past year, easing hiring requirements and accelerating recruitment in ways that current and former officials say are lowering long-accepted professional standards. The changes include abbreviated training for FBI agents transferred from other federal agencies, waived written assessments for support staff seeking agent positions, and the Justice Department's decision to hire prosecutors fresh out of law school to fill vacancies in U.S. attorney's offices. Some officials also say the FBI is promoting less experienced employees into senior leadership positions more quickly than historically customary.

Tom Steyer outspends all rivals combined in California governor race

2026-04-19

Billionaire hedge fund manager Tom Steyer is saturating California with campaign advertisements, spending at least $115 million on television, radio, and digital ads—nearly 30 times the spending of his nearest Democratic rival in the state's wide-open race for governor. The spending dwarfs what all other major Democratic candidates and independent committees supporting them have combined to spend.

Survivors return to Hong Kong homes 5 months after deadly fire

2026-04-19

Survivors of Hong Kong's deadliest fire in decades began returning to their homes Monday to assess the devastation and retrieve their belongings, five months after the blaze swept across seven of eight buildings in an apartment complex in the Tai Po district. The fire, which occurred in November, killed 168 people. Over 260 residents returned on the first day, with the process expected to continue into early May.

La Rueda de Candombe concludes summer season in Montevideo

2026-04-19

Hundreds gathered in Montevideo's Plaza de España on Sunday as La Rueda de Candombe held the season's final performance, capping an extraordinary rise for a street ensemble that began as an informal gathering of friends and has now earned international recognition for revitalizing candombe, a centuries-old musical tradition at the heart of Uruguay's cultural identity.

US delegation visits Cuba in diplomatic push as Trump signals post-Iran focus

2026-04-18

A senior State Department official met with Cuban government representatives in Havana last week, marking a renewed diplomatic push between the United States and Cuba even as President Donald Trump has threatened military intervention and Cuba's government has said it is prepared to fight back. The delegation urged Cuba to make major economic and political changes, according to officials speaking on condition of anonymity, as tensions over the island nation's governance have intensified. It was the first U.S. government flight to land in Cuba outside the Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay since 2016.

Federal judge blocks Nexstar-Tegna TV merger on antitrust grounds

2026-04-18

Federal judge Troy L. Nunley blocked a $6.2 billion merger between television giants Nexstar Media Group and Tegna on Friday, finding that state attorneys general and DirecTV are likely to prevail in their antitrust lawsuit challenging the deal. The merged company would have owned 265 television stations across 44 states and the District of Columbia, the judge noted.

Trump backs primary challengers to Indiana senators who rejected redistricting

2026-04-18

President Donald Trump is endorsing seven primary challengers against Indiana Republican state senators who defied his demand to redraw the state's congressional map, a campaign backed by more than $4.2 million in advertising spending. The effort, which has no recent precedent, will test Trump's influence over Republican Party politics in the May 5 primary.

Trump signs order to accelerate psychedelic drug reviews including ibogaine

2026-04-18

President Donald Trump on Saturday directed his administration to speed reviews of psychedelic drugs, including ibogaine, a substance with documented health risks that has been embraced by combat veterans and conservative lawmakers seeking treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder and opioid addiction. The executive order directs the Food and Drug Administration to issue national priority vouchers for three psychedelics, potentially cutting review times from months to weeks — the first time the FDA has offered that fast-tracking to any psychedelics.

Trump's dyslexia remarks stir anguish among people with learning disability

2026-04-18

President Donald Trump's remarks linking California Gov. Gavin Newsom's dyslexia to low intelligence stirred anguish and anger among people with the learning disability and supporters across the political spectrum. Trump called Newsom "stupid," "low IQ," and "mentally disabled," claims that conflict with research showing dyslexia and intelligence are unrelated and that undermine years of efforts to reduce stigma around a condition affecting an estimated 20% of the world population.

Prosecutor removed from Brennan case after raising legal concerns

2026-04-18

A lead prosecutor in the John Brennan investigation was removed from the case Friday after expressing concerns to Justice Department officials about the strength of potential criminal charges, according to a person familiar with the matter. Maria Medetis Long, who heads the national security section at the U.S. Attorney's office for the Southern District of Florida, informed defense lawyers that she was no longer participating in the probe.

Arizona judge backs recorder's expanded authority in county election dispute

2026-04-18

In a ruling April 17, an Arizona Superior Court judge largely sided with Maricopa County Recorder Justin Heap in his lawsuit against the county board of supervisors over election operations, giving Heap expanded authority to oversee voting procedures in the state's most populous county. The decision comes as Heap has implemented controversial changes to signature verification on mail ballots and has used a federal system to check voter rolls for noncitizens, drawing criticism from state officials and county board members. The conflict between election administrators is raising concerns about voter confidence in election administration as Arizona approaches its July primary and November general election.

Progressive leaders rally in Barcelona to defend rules-based world order

2026-04-18

Progressive leaders from multiple continents gathered in Barcelona on Saturday to mount a coordinated defense of multilateral governance and democracy against what they characterized as an assault on international institutions. The summit brought together Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Colombian President Gustavo Petro, and U.S. Democrats Chris Murphy and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to the dual-event IV Meeting in Defense of Democracy and an inaugural Global Progressive Mobilization. The gathering drew approximately 6,000 elected officials, policy analysts, and activists—underscoring an ideological schism widening at the global level. The events occurred as President Trump, through explicit rejection of NATO and United Nations authority and through social media attacks on Sánchez, continues to signal a departure from decades of U.S. multilateral commitments.

Starmer faces fresh crisis over failed Mandelson ambassador vetting

2026-04-18

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces a fresh threat to his leadership after The Guardian revealed Thursday that Peter Mandelson, whom Starmer appointed as ambassador to the United States, failed security vetting for the role. The revelation raises questions about whether Starmer misled Parliament over how Mandelson cleared the official hurdles required for the ambassadorial post.

States pass laws honoring Charlie Kirk, stirring debate on religion and speech

2026-04-18

More than 60 bills named after conservative activist Charlie Kirk have been proposed in over 20 states, according to an Associated Press analysis. The measures—ranging from campus free-speech protections to requirements that public schools teach about religion's positive historical impact—come after Kirk's assassination at a Utah university in 2025. Republicans who have advanced the bills cite Kirk's ideology and legacy; Democrats have objected both to the legislation's content and to naming state laws after a partisan figure.

US extends waiver on Russian oil sanctions despite Bessent denial

2026-04-18

The U.S. Treasury Department on Friday extended its pause on sanctions against Russian oil shipments to ease shortages from the Iran war, contradicting Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's public denial of such a move three days earlier. The so-called general license exempts U.S. sanctions for 30 days on deliveries of Russian oil that had been loaded on tankers as of Friday.

Trump extends surveillance powers to April 30

2026-04-18

President Donald Trump signed legislation on Saturday extending a controversial national security surveillance program until April 30, setting up a new Capitol Hill conflict over privacy safeguards and government power. The measure, which passed the Senate on Friday in a last-minute scramble, grants a short-term reprieve to Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act — a program that allows the CIA, NSA, FBI, and other intelligence agencies to collect and analyze vast amounts of international communications without a warrant.

Pope Leo XIV challenges Angola to end resource-extraction cycle

2026-04-18

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Angola on Saturday as the third leg of his four-nation African tour. In his first speech to government authorities, he challenged the country's leaders to break what he called the "cycle of interests" that has exploited Africa for centuries. The pontiff said Angola's people possessed treasures that could not be "bought or stolen" despite the nation's history of colonial plunder, civil war, and pervasive poverty.

Iran war energy crisis accelerates nuclear power plans in Asia and Africa

2026-04-18

The Iran war's disruption of global energy supplies is prompting Asian and African nations to rapidly expand nuclear power generation, both by increasing output at existing reactors and by launching ambitious long-term plans to build new plants across the regions hardest hit by the conflict.

Iran closes Strait of Hormuz, fires on ships over US blockade

2026-04-18

Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday and fired on multiple ships attempting passage, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard announced, escalating a standoff over the US blockade of Iranian ports as an eight-week war approaches its ceasefire deadline. The Iranian military said no vessels would be permitted through the crucial waterway until the US lifts its blockade, warning that "any movement from the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman toward the Strait of Hormuz will be considered cooperation with the enemy" and would be attacked. Through the strait, approximately one-fifth of the world's oil normally passes.

Pope won't debate Trump but will keep preaching peace

2026-04-18

Pope Leo XIV said Saturday that it was "not in my interest at all" to debate U.S. President Donald Trump about the Iran war, even as he reaffirmed his commitment to preaching peace. Speaking aboard the papal plane as it flew from Cameroon to Angola, Leo addressed a week-long public dispute with the U.S. administration that has consumed international headlines.

Russia loots thousands of Ukrainian cultural objects in ongoing war

2026-04-18

When Alina Dotsenko returned to her museum in Kherson after Ukrainian forces retook the southern city from Russian forces in late 2022, she walked into devastation. Thousands of artworks had vanished from the Kherson Art Museum, which before Russia's full-scale invasion held more than 14,000 works. Russian forces had loaded much of the collection onto trucks and transported it to Russian-annexed Crimea, according to Dotsenko and video filmed by residents. The fate of nearly 10,000 pieces remains unknown, even as Ukraine pursues international accountability for cultural theft during the war.

Arctic Refuge lease sale set for June despite indigenous opposition

2026-04-18

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management announced Friday that it will hold an oil and gas lease sale for Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge coastal plain on June 5. The sale marks the first under a law passed by Congress last year calling for four lease sales in the refuge's coastal plain over a 10-year period. The announcement comes amid ongoing litigation and after two prior Arctic Refuge sales drew no interest from major oil companies.

85-year-old French widow returns to France after 16-day ICE detention

2026-04-18

An 85-year-old French widow returned to France on Friday after 16 days in U.S. immigration custody, her son said. Marie-Thérèse Ross was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Alabama on April 1 for overstaying her 90-day visa. Speaking to reporters in her hometown of Orvault in western France, her son Hervé Goix said his mother needs time to recover from the detention.

Black patriots' overlooked role in American Revolution gets new spotlight

2026-04-18

Black and Indigenous patriots whose contributions to the American Revolution were long marginalized are now being highlighted through museum exhibitions and programs nationwide as the United States marks the war's 250th anniversary. The National Park Service estimates that more than 5,500 patriots of color served on the colonial side, including enslaved men like Prince Estabrook, who fought at Lexington on April 19, 1775, yet their stories have been largely absent from traditional accounts that focused on white leaders.

Los Angeles ordered to pay $11.8M to man blinded by police projectile

2026-04-18

A federal jury has ordered Los Angeles to pay $11.8 million to Isaac Castellanos, who was permanently blinded in one eye by a police projectile while celebrating the Dodgers' 2020 World Series championship. The jury returned the verdict Thursday after deliberating less than two hours in Castellanos' federal lawsuit alleging excessive use of force. Castellanos was a senior at California State University, Long Beach, when he was struck in the face during a peaceful downtown Los Angeles gathering on the early morning of October 28, 2020. According to his complaint, Los Angeles Police Department officers advanced toward the crowd and began firing less-lethal munitions—including rubber bullets and bean bags—without warning.

Mexico arrests European fugitive wanted for drug trafficking

2026-04-18

A suspected drug trafficker considered one of Europe's most wanted fugitives has been arrested in Mexico, authorities said on Saturday. János Balla, also known as Dániel Takács, was captured in Quintana Roo, a southern Mexican state, according to Mexican Security Secretary Omar García Harfuch. Balla is wanted in Hungary on drug trafficking charges and is the subject of an Interpol Red Notice, García said.

Kansas family sues over inmate's death from alleged deputy pressure

2026-04-18

Charles Adair's family filed a federal wrongful death lawsuit Friday over his death in a Kansas jail, renewing demands for the public release of video showing what investigators say led to his death while in custody. Adair, arrested last July on misdemeanor warrants for failure to appear, died after deputy Richard Fatherley allegedly knelt on his back for one minute and 26 seconds while he was handcuffed in his cell, according to a Kansas Bureau of Investigation affidavit. Fatherley was charged with second-degree murder; he remains free on bond. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Adair's family, said "The public has a right to transparency when someone dies in custody in this manner." The sheriff's office declined The Associated Press's records request for the video, though Crump and co-counsel Harry Daniels have viewed it.

Spain and Mexico resolve colonial past dispute with handshake

2026-04-18

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez resolved a years-long diplomatic dispute over Spain's colonial legacy Saturday in Barcelona, with Sheinbaum telling reporters "There is no diplomatic crisis, there never was one" moments before shaking hands with Sánchez at an international pro-democracy summit.

Canadian man pleads guilty to aiding suicide; murder charges withdrawn

2026-04-18

A Canadian man facing 14 murder charges has agreed to plead guilty to 14 counts of aiding suicide, his lawyer said Friday. Kenneth Law, from the Toronto area, allegedly sold sodium nitrite online to people at risk of self-harm. Under the plea agreement, Canadian prosecutors will withdraw the murder charges.

Dominican Republic and Haiti reopen airspace in May, ending 2-year closure

2026-04-18

The Dominican Republic and Haiti agreed Friday to reopen their shared airspace in May, restoring direct flights between the neighboring Caribbean nations after a closure spanning more than two years. The agreement permits connections between three Dominican airports and Cap-Haïtien, Haiti's northern port city. The decision followed bilateral talks focused on border control, surveillance, migration, and trade.

Kabul demolishes thousands of homes for road-modernization project

2026-04-18

The door that once led to a family room now faces nothing but the void. For Syed Murtaza Sadar, a 25-year-old business owner in Kabul, this empty space represents the cost of Afghanistan's capital city's infrastructure ambitions. Two months before speaking to reporters, municipal authorities arrived to expropriate his home, the barber shop and public bath his family had operated for years, and ordered him to finish demolishing it himself. Over the past four and a half years, Kabul's Taliban-led municipal government has expropriated 11,278 properties across the capital to make way for wider roads, constructing roughly 450 kilometers (280 miles) of roadway as part of a modernization campaign that is rapidly reshaping the city.

Titanic survivor's life jacket sells for $906,000 at auction

2026-04-18

A life jacket worn by Laura Mabel Francatelli, a first-class passenger aboard RMS Titanic, sold at auction on Saturday for 670,000 pounds ($906,000), far exceeding the presale estimate of 250,000 to 350,000 pounds. Francatelli wore the flotation device as she escaped the doomed ocean liner on a lifeboat and signed it along with other survivors from the same boat. The artifact sold to an unidentified telephone bidder at Henry Aldridge & Son auctioneers in Devizes, western England.

Venezuelan opposition leader draws Madrid crowd, declines Spain's PM meeting

2026-04-18

Venezuela's exiled opposition leader María Corina Machado drew several thousand supporters to a rally in Madrid on Saturday, declining a meeting with Spain's progressive Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez while expressing support for U.S. President Donald Trump's removal of Nicolás Maduro in January. Machado's decision came as Sánchez hosted a summit of progressive world leaders in Barcelona. Standing beside Madrid's conservative regional leader Isabel Díaz Ayuso at the Puerta del Sol, Machado described the progressive summit as a reason the meeting with Sánchez "was not advisable." The Venezuelan opposition leader, who holds the Nobel Peace Prize, presented the award to Trump earlier this year and said she remains in close contact with his administration about Venezuela's political future.

Supreme Court sends Louisiana environmental lawsuit to federal court

2026-04-17

The Supreme Court unanimously sided with oil and gas companies on Friday, ordering a Louisiana environmental lawsuit back to federal court after a state jury ordered Chevron to pay more than $740 million for coastal damage. Writing for an 8-0 court, Justice Clarence Thomas found the lawsuit was related to companies' World War II efforts to supply aviation fuel for the U.S. government and should be heard in federal court.

Mejía wins New Jersey House special election, adding to Democratic gains

2026-04-17

Democrat Analilia Mejía won the special election for New Jersey's 11th Congressional District on Thursday, defeating Republican Joe Hathaway by roughly 20 percentage points and keeping a seat Democrats need as Republicans maintain a thin House majority. The Associated Press called the race for Mejía, 48, minutes after polls closed on April 16.

Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax killed his wife and himself, police say

2026-04-17

Former Virginia Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax fatally shot his estranged wife, Dr. Cerina Fairfax, in their basement before killing himself early Thursday, Fairfax County police said. The deaths occurred in Annandale, Virginia, a suburb of Washington, D.C. The couple, who had been separated for nearly two years while living together with their two teenage children, was in the midst of divorce proceedings when the deaths occurred. Their son called 911.

Tennessee Senate votes 18-14 to expand school vouchers to 35,000

2026-04-17

The Tennessee Senate voted 18-14 on Thursday to expand the state's school voucher program to 35,000 vouchers for the 2026-27 academic year, nearly doubling the current enrollment. The expansion will direct approximately $260 million in public funds to private schools. The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee for his signature after passing the House 52-43 earlier this week.

Lawmakers air AI ‘angst’ and safety fears at House roundtable

2026-04-17

A House Oversight Committee subcommittee held a roundtable on artificial intelligence on Thursday that quickly turned to lawmakers’ worries about risks ranging from sensitive government-data handling to military use, energy demand and climate effects. Republicans and Democrats described concerns about federal workers, the creation of pornographic images using someone’s likeness, and how AI systems could shape the ability of U.S. forces to carry out lethal actions, while other witnesses urged Congress to fund AI safety research.

Wyoming communities ask for time as federal nuclear push meets waste storage debate

2026-04-17

Wyoming residents and tribal and state officials are urging time to evaluate nuclear energy and spent-fuel storage as federal efforts accelerate and developers consider new projects. The discussion follows Wyoming’s 2022 carveout that allows spent nuclear fuel from in-state plants, but some communities say the window for debate is narrowing as regulators and industry move faster.

Judge blocks turbine maker from exiting offshore wind project

2026-04-17

A Massachusetts judge on Friday blocked turbine manufacturer GE Renewables from terminating its contracts with the Vineyard Wind offshore wind farm, ruling that the company must continue providing installation and maintenance services. Judge Peter Krupp granted Vineyard Wind's request for a preliminary injunction after the developer argued that losing the manufacturer would devastate the project at a critical phase.

Congress extends surveillance powers to April 30 after House chaos

2026-04-17

The Senate approved a temporary extension of surveillance powers through April 30 on Friday, after the House staged a chaotic post-midnight struggle to prevent a critical counterterrorism program from expiring. The measure passed by voice vote without formal roll call, clearing a Monday deadline and heading to President Donald Trump for his signature. The action sets up another showdown in weeks as Congress wrestles with Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act — a tool that balances what U.S. officials describe as uniquely effective intelligence gathering against what critics say are significant privacy risks.

Washington tightens scrutiny of prediction markets over geopolitical betting

2026-04-17

Congress and the White House are moving to regulate prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket over concerns that the platforms enable insider trading and war profiteering. The push comes after reports of highly profitable bets placed on military and geopolitical events, including bets on when a U.S. airman downed in Iran would be rescued and on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's ouster.

Federal judge blocks DOJ demand for Rhode Island voter data

2026-04-17

A federal judge Friday dismissed a Trump administration lawsuit demanding that Rhode Island provide detailed voter registration data, ruling that federal law does not permit such a demand. U.S. District Court Judge Mary McElroy sided with election officials and civil rights advocates, finding that the Justice Department was conducting what amounted to a "fishing expedition."

Kennedy clashes with Democrats over vaccines and race at House hearing

2026-04-17

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testified before the House Ways and Means Committee on Thursday for the first time since September, defending a proposed cut of more than 12% to the Department of Health and Human Services budget while trading sharp exchanges with Democrats over vaccine policy and remarks he made during his 2024 presidential campaign. The session opened a planned sprint of seven budget hearings Kennedy is scheduled to attend across congressional committees and subcommittees over the following week.

Lebanese return home as US-brokered ceasefire takes effect

2026-04-17

A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah brokered by the United States took effect Friday, prompting thousands of displaced Lebanese to begin the journey home in long convoys of vehicles piled high with salvaged belongings. The truce follows a devastating conflict that displaced more than one million people, leaving southern Lebanon heavily damaged and residents uncertain whether the fragile calm will hold.

Trump administration halts federal renewable energy aid for farmers

2026-04-17

The Trump administration has effectively halted two federal programs that helped American farmers pursue renewable energy, leaving hundreds of projects stalled and forcing farmers to abandon or defer plans to cut electricity costs through solar installations. Within the first year of President Donald Trump's second term, the Rural Energy for America Program—which has distributed over $1.8 billion in grants since its inception nearly two decades ago—has stopped awarding grants, and the federal clean energy tax credit has been restructured with tighter deadlines that solar developers say are nearly impossible to meet.

White House meets Anthropic CEO over Mythos AI model's security uses

2026-04-17

White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles met Friday with Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei to discuss the artificial intelligence company's new Mythos model, according to the White House and Anthropic. The meeting came as the Trump administration evaluates potential national security applications of advanced artificial intelligence systems.

Democrats scramble for attention and cash in Georgia governor's race

2026-04-17

ATLANTA (AP) — Democrats are competing for the party’s nomination in Georgia’s May 19 governor primary with far less attention and money than they did in 2022, raising concerns they could miss another opportunity to win the state’s governor’s office. National Democratic leaders have pledged funding and said Georgia is “in play,” while multiple candidates—including former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms—try to build momentum toward a potential June 16 runoff.

Concerns about backgrounds of some new ICE hires

2026-04-17

The Associated Press reported Friday that some newly hired U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers began work before completing background checks and had financial, legal and employment issues in their histories. The AP said it found examples by reviewing LinkedIn disclosures and public records, and that the agency keeps the identities of employees shielded from public view.

Trump expected to nominate Cameron Hamilton to lead FEMA

2026-04-17

Trump plans to nominate Cameron Hamilton, a former U.S. Navy SEAL whom the administration fired as FEMA’s acting leader last year, as FEMA’s permanent administrator, according to a person familiar with the matter. The offer comes as FEMA has gone through three temporary administrators during the president’s second term, and as the White House seeks broader changes to disaster response. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

N.J. Transit charges World Cup fans $150 for $12.90 train ride to stadium

2026-04-17

New Jersey Transit will charge World Cup fans $150 for a round-trip train ride to MetLife Stadium from Manhattan — nearly 12 times the regular $12.90 fare for the roughly 9-mile trip. The agency announced Friday that the elevated fare was necessary to cover the $62 million cost of transporting fans to the stadium in East Rutherford for eight World Cup matches beginning June 13, with federal grants defraying only $14 million of that expense.

Years of dam danger warnings ignored before Cheboygan emergency

2026-04-17

Floodwaters pushed Michigan's Cheboygan Lock and Dam to the brink of collapse Thursday — climbing within five inches of the crest — threatening downtown Cheboygan with potential evacuation while evidence emerged that local, state and federal officials had known for years of critical safety deficiencies at a privately owned hydroelectric facility connected to the public dam. The hydroelectric plant — which the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said accounts for about 30% of the Cheboygan River's flow to Lake Huron — has been nonfunctional since a fire closed it in September 2023.

Trump touts $400M ballroom plan amid criticism he's out of touch

2026-04-17

President Donald Trump presented renderings of a $400 million White House ballroom featuring hand-carved Corinthian columns on Air Force One, drawing Democratic comparisons to Marie Antoinette and concerns among some Republicans that his focus on grand architectural projects distracted from voter priorities ahead of November's midterm races.

Trump's 98% drug claim misrepresents seizure data, experts say

2026-04-17

President Donald Trump claimed that 98.2% of drugs entering the U.S. by sea have been stopped under his administration, but the figure misrepresents federal data and cannot support the conclusion, according to drug trafficking experts and government officials. The statistic reflects a month-to-month drop in seizures at coastal locations, not a measure of total drug trafficking or policy effectiveness.

Mississippi liquor delivery backlog stretches to weeks

2026-04-17

Mississippi retailers are struggling with severe delays in wine and liquor deliveries from the state's monopoly distribution system, with some orders taking up to 17 days to arrive as of mid-April. The backlog, which emerged in January when the state's 40-year-old warehouse transitioned to a new inventory system, has left shop owners dealing with dwindling inventory and reduced sales as they wait for restocked shelves.

Ypsilanti Township calls 12-month pause on water for data centers

2026-04-17

The Ypsilanti Township Board of Trustees unanimously approved a resolution Wednesday calling for a 12-month moratorium on providing water to data centers. The move aims to slow development of a $1.2 billion computing facility jointly planned by the University of Michigan and Los Alamos National Laboratory.

AP releases weekly news quiz covering week's major stories

2026-04-17

The Associated Press released its weekly news quiz on Wednesday, featuring major stories from across seven news categories. The quiz tested readers' knowledge on U.S. and world news, along with reporting on oddities, health, technology, religion, sports and entertainment.

ICE acting director Todd Lyons to resign at end of May

2026-04-17

Todd Lyons, who led U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as a key executor of President Donald Trump's mass deportations agenda, will resign at the end of May, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin announced Thursday. Lyons' last day will be May 31. The announcement comes after the agency faced mounting scrutiny over high-profile enforcement operations and the deaths of two American protesters during federal immigration officer conduct.

Mamdani endorses Cuomo accuser in city council race

2026-04-17

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani endorsed Lindsey Boylan for a City Council seat on Friday, backing the first woman to publicly accuse former Gov. Andrew Cuomo of sexual harassment. Boylan's special election is scheduled for April 28.

Abbott threatens $200 million in funding cuts to Texas cities over ICE policies

2026-04-17

Gov. Greg Abbott threatened Monday to strip nearly $200 million in state public safety funding from Houston, Dallas, and Austin, claiming their policies limiting police cooperation with federal immigration authorities make streets less safe rather than safer. Houston faces the largest potential cut at approximately $110 million. Dallas stands to lose more than $32 million in grants plus an additional $55 million in World Cup public safety funding. Austin could forfeit approximately $2.5 million. Abbott gave Houston an extended deadline to comply, while Austin and Dallas received similar letters Thursday. The threatened cuts stem from each city's policy directing police officers not to prolong detention of individuals to facilitate contact with Immigration and Customs Enforcement during routine encounters like traffic stops.

FAA orders 300 daily flight cuts at O'Hare to curb summer delays

2026-04-17

Federal officials on Thursday ordered airlines to cut roughly 300 flights per day from Chicago O'Hare International Airport's schedule on the busiest summer days, capping operations at a maximum of 2,708 flights to head off what regulators said would be severe delays. The U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration announced the directive after airlines filed expansion plans that would have pushed peak-day operations to more than 3,080 flights — a 14.9 percent increase over the prior summer — at an airport already contending with taxiway closures for ongoing construction. The flight limits take effect May 17 and run through Oct. 24.

Mugabe's son pleads guilty, avoids murder charge in South Africa

2026-04-17

Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, 28, the youngest son of former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, avoided an attempted murder charge Friday after reaching a plea deal in which he admitted to pointing a gun and breaking immigration laws in South Africa. His co-accused, Tobias Mugabe Matonhodze, pleaded guilty to attempted murder and four other charges. A court set sentencing for both men for April 24.

ICE hired agents with questionable backgrounds

2026-04-17

An Associated Press investigation has found that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement hired thousands of new officers and special agents with questionable qualifications during an unprecedented hiring spree to carry out President Donald Trump's mass deportation campaign. The agency, which received a $75 billion congressional windfall, prioritized rapid recruitment over verification, resulting in the hiring of applicants with histories of financial distress, failed police academies, and prior misconduct allegations.

French widow released from ICE custody after 16 days

2026-04-17

An 85-year-old French widow who married a retired U.S. soldier decades ago has returned to France after spending 16 days in federal immigration custody. Marie-Thérèse Ross was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on April 1 for overstaying her 90-day visa, though she was in the process of applying for a green card. An Alabama judge found evidence that her stepson, a U.S. federal employee, may have used his position to trigger her detention amid a dispute over her late husband's estate.

Trump's 250-foot Triumphal Arch clears first review by Fine Arts Commission

2026-04-17

The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts approved the design concept Thursday for President Donald Trump's proposed 250-foot Triumphal Arch at an entrance to the nation's capital, advancing the monument through its first formal review even as the commission's own secretary reported that about 1,000 written comments submitted to the agency all opposed the project. The Trump-appointed commission also gave concept approval to two companion projects: a plan to paint the historic granite exterior of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building white and the construction of an underground security screening center beneath Sherman Park for White House visitors and tourists.

RFK Jr. claims U.S. leads on measles; AP fact-check finds otherwise

2026-04-17

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. claimed Friday that the United States is controlling measles outbreaks better than any other country in the world. According to an AP fact-check, that claim is not supported by evidence. Other countries, including neighboring Mexico and Canada, have experienced larger measles outbreaks in 2025 and 2026 than the United States.

Colombia minister says Iran crisis should spur faster shift from fossil fuels

2026-04-17

Colombia’s environment minister, Irene Vélez Torres, said the war in the Middle East should speed the global energy transition away from oil, gas and coal. Speaking to The Associated Press on Thursday, Vélez argued that instability in energy markets creates pressure to accelerate efforts toward solar, wind and geothermal instead of delaying them.

Prosecutors turned away at Fed as Trump threatens to fire Powell

2026-04-16

Federal prosecutors from U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro's office made an unannounced visit Tuesday to a Federal Reserve construction site under criminal investigation, but were turned away by a building contractor and referred to Fed attorneys, according to two people familiar with the visit. The same day, President Donald Trump renewed his threat to fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell if Powell remains on the central bank's governing board after his chairmanship expires next month.

Federal judge blocks above-ground White House ballroom construction, allows bunker work

2026-04-16

A federal judge on Thursday blocked above-ground construction of a planned $400 million White House ballroom, ruling that the Trump administration's claim that the entire project qualifies as a national security measure is "neither a reasonable nor a correct" reading of his earlier order. U.S. District Judge Richard Leon said that below-ground work on a bunker and other security facilities at the site may continue, but that the ballroom's surface structure may not.

House passes bill to extend Haiti immigrants’ temporary protected status

2026-04-16

WASHINGTON — The U.S. House passed legislation Thursday that would extend temporary protected status for Haitian immigrants in a rare bipartisan rebuke to President Donald Trump’s efforts to end the program, a key step before a fast-moving Supreme Court case. The vote was 224-204, and supporters said it would give hundreds of thousands of qualifying Haitians time to remain lawfully in the United States without fear of deportation.

Trump bets tax cuts will resonate with Las Vegas voters amid high gas

2026-04-16

President Donald Trump is making a rare trip to Las Vegas for a midterm-election message focused on tax cuts he signed into law last year, including a proposal he says makes tips tax-free. In interviews and remarks in Nevada, he and supporters tied the benefits for tipped workers to broader affordability concerns, even as higher gas prices—linked to the Iran war—have undercut household budgets.

South Carolina Senate backs bill protecting monuments, blocks QR codes

2026-04-16

South Carolina’s state Senate approved a bill that would protect nearly all historic statues, monuments and building name changes across the state, moving the measure to the House with about a month left in session. The proposal, approved 31-7, would also bar QR-code stickers on monuments that supporters said could add context about Confederate and segregationist figures.

House rejects Iran war powers resolution 213-214 as 60-day deadline nears

2026-04-16

The House voted 213-214 on Thursday to reject a resolution requiring President Donald Trump to withdraw U.S. forces from the war with Iran, one day after the Senate defeated a similar measure. The vote came as the War Powers Act's 60-day authorization deadline approaches at the end of April, a clock that started when U.S. and Israeli forces struck Iran on Feb. 28.

Sen. Warren demands fuller Warsh disclosure ahead of Fed chair hearing

2026-04-16

WASHINGTON — Sen. Elizabeth Warren, the top Democrat on the Senate Banking Committee, said Thursday she met with Kevin Warsh, President Trump's nominee to lead the Federal Reserve, and urged him to release more detailed financial information than was included in disclosure forms released earlier this week. Warsh declined, Warren said, adding that the refusal "frankly, raises more concerns." The Banking Committee is scheduled to hold a confirmation hearing on Warsh's nomination next week.

Senate passes resolution to lift mining ban near Boundary Waters

2026-04-16

The U.S. Senate voted 50-49 on Thursday to lift a federal ban on mining near Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, advancing a resolution that would allow a Chilean mining company to extract copper, nickel and other precious metals from the region. The measure now goes to President Donald Trump for his signature, with House Republicans having approved it last month.

Senate rejects halt to Israel arms sales as Democratic support more than doubles

2026-04-16

The Senate on Wednesday voted to reject two resolutions by Vermont independent Sen. Bernie Sanders to block U.S. arms sales to Israel, but more than three dozen Democrats voted for the measures — a figure that has more than doubled in less than two years as Israeli military campaigns have expanded across Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran. The votes failed 40-59 and 36-63, with all Republicans opposed. Democrats also supported a separate resolution to end U.S. military involvement in Iran, which also failed, 47-52.

Democrats boast fundraising in key Senate races as GOP advantage persists

2026-04-16

Democrats reported large fundraising hauls in several competitive Senate races in the first three months of 2026, an effort to signal voter enthusiasm in states that will decide control of the chamber. Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico said his campaign raised $27 million, while Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff said he raised $14 million and former Ohio Sen. Sherrod Brown reported $10.1 million. Republicans and outside groups also brought substantial money, and party finances still show a broader imbalance heading toward November elections.

California cities scramble to comply with or fight SB 79 housing rezoning

2026-04-16

Local governments across California are scrambling to respond to a major state housing law, Senate Bill 79, which takes effect July 1 and requires more transit-area zoning for mid-rise apartments near rail, subway and some bus stops. With the deadline approaching, cities from Los Angeles to San Francisco are weighing options such as using state-written delay provisions, drafting their own zoning alternatives, or moving to adopt changes quickly.

US aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford breaks post-Vietnam deployment record

2026-04-16

The USS Gerald R. Ford has broken the U.S. record for the longest post-Vietnam War deployment by an aircraft carrier, returning after nearly 10 months at sea that included a military raid in Venezuela and the early phase of the Iran war, the Associated Press reported. The ship logged its 295th day at sea this week, surpassing the prior U.S. record for carriers in the past half-century.

California Supreme Court strips Eastman of law license over 2020 election plot

2026-04-16

The California Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered John Eastman disbarred, stripping the attorney who devised a plan for then-Vice President Mike Pence to block certification of the 2020 presidential election of his license to practice law in the state. The court ordered Eastman's name stricken from the California roll of attorneys, capping a yearslong disciplinary proceeding that the State Bar's chief trial counsel said was driven by clear evidence of misconduct.

Díaz-Canel says Cuba will fight if attacked as Trump signals post-Iran focus on island

2026-04-16

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said Thursday that Cuba does not seek military conflict with the United States but is prepared to fight should one occur, addressing hundreds of people at a Havana rally marking the 65th anniversary of the Cuban Revolution's declaration of its socialist character. The remarks came days after President Donald Trump said his administration could turn its attention to Cuba after the ongoing war in Iran concludes, describing the island as a "failing nation."

Mamdani's wife apologizes for harmful social media posts from her teens

2026-04-16

Rama Duwaji, the wife of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, apologized Wednesday for "harmful" social media posts she made as a teenager, responding after a conservative news outlet published her years of online activity. In an interview with the arts website Hyperallergic, Duwaji, an illustrator, said she felt "a lot of shame being confronted with language I used that is so harmful to others," adding "being 15 doesn't excuse it."

FAA and FBI warn drone pilots after Coors Field airspace violations

2026-04-16

The Federal Aviation Administration and the FBI warned drone operators Thursday against flying near Coors Field in Denver after more than a half-dozen unauthorized drone sightings disrupted law enforcement operations during Colorado Rockies home games April 3 through April 5. No operators were arrested, but the agencies said violators could still face fines of up to $75,000 per incident.

US forces complete withdrawal from Qasrak air base in Syria's Hasakah province

2026-04-16

U.S. forces completed their withdrawal from Qasrak air base Thursday when a final convoy of soldiers and equipment departed the site in Syria's Hasakah province, officials for both sides confirmed. The Syrian army has now taken full control of most military sites in the country where the U.S. military was once deployed.

Treasury sanctions Ortega sons, Nicaragua gold firms over repression financing

2026-04-16

The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned two sons of Nicaragua's copresidents Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo on Thursday, along with officials and companies tied to the country's gold industry, saying they help sustain a government the department described as repressive. Maurice Ortega and Daniel Edmundo Ortega, both government officials, were the highest-profile individuals named in the action. Nicaragua's government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trump nominates Erica Schwartz, former deputy surgeon general, as CDC director

2026-04-16

President Donald Trump nominated Erica Schwartz, a former deputy surgeon general with military and medical credentials, to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday — the third person nominated to head the Atlanta-based agency since Trump returned to office in January 2025.

Kemi Seba arrested in South Africa, faces Benin extradition on rebellion charges

2026-04-16

South African police arrested prominent Beninese activist Kemi Seba on Thursday in a sting operation in Pretoria, charging him and his son with conspiracy to commit a crime and immigration violations as Benin seeks his extradition on allegations of inciting rebellion following a failed coup against President Patrice Talon.

Orbán calls for 'complete renewal' of Fidesz after landslide election loss

2026-04-16

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said Thursday that his populist-nationalist Fidesz party requires a "complete renewal" after its landslide defeat in Sunday's parliamentary election, which delivered a two-thirds majority in Parliament to center-right challenger Péter Magyar's Tisza party and ended Orbán's 16 years in power.

Nigeria on high alert for Islamist attack targeting Abuja airport and prison, internal memo says

2026-04-16

Nigerian security forces are on high alert for a planned Islamist militant attack on the international airport and a prison facility in the capital, Abuja, and a military detention center in neighboring Niger state, according to an internal government memo obtained by the Associated Press. The April 13 memo, issued by the Nigeria Customs Service, warned that sleeper cells of the Islamic State West Africa Province and Boko Haram intend to free detained terrorists and damage critical aviation infrastructure.

Two men plead not guilty in IS-inspired bomb plot outside New York mayor's mansion

2026-04-16

Two Pennsylvania men pleaded not guilty Wednesday to federal terrorism charges stemming from an alleged plot to detonate homemade bombs at an anti-Islam protest outside the official residence of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Emir Balat, 18, and Ibrahim Kayumi, 19, both from the Philadelphia area, entered the pleas during a brief appearance in federal court in Manhattan on April 15.

NYC building workers vote to authorize strike as contract deadline looms

2026-04-16

Thousands of New York City apartment building workers voted Wednesday to authorize a potential strike, setting up what could be the first building service walkout in 35 years. Contract negotiations between 32BJ SEIU and building owners have stalled over health insurance premiums and new hire pay classifications, with the current contract set to expire at midnight Monday. A strike would disrupt services for an estimated 1.5 million residents across the city, according to the union.

Israeli settlers block West Bank schoolchildren's path with barbed wire, tear gas

2026-04-16

Palestinian siblings attempting to walk to school in the occupied West Bank found their path blocked by coiled barbed wire that Israeli settlers had installed overnight, according to video provided to the Associated Press. When students and parents gathered Monday at the blocked route, armed men in an unmarked white truck — including some uniformed soldiers, the video shows — deployed tear gas and sound grenades. The incident unfolded at Umm al-Khair, a Bedouin village adjacent to the Carmel settlement in the southern West Bank, as Palestinian children returned to class for the first time since the Iran war prompted school closures.

Philippine corruption suspect Zaldy Co arrested in Prague, Marcos says

2026-04-16

Former Philippine lawmaker Zaldy Co, a key suspect in a flood control corruption scandal that triggered mass protests, was arrested in Prague after entering the Czech Republic without proper documentation, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Thursday. Marcos said his government is in close coordination with Czech authorities to arrange Co's return to the Philippines, though the two countries have no extradition treaty.

Trump administration resumes Second Avenue subway funding after New York sues

2026-04-16

The U.S. Department of Transportation said in a federal court filing Thursday that it has completed its review of the Second Avenue subway project and will resume reimbursing New York transit officials for construction costs, ending a seven-month funding freeze that state officials had challenged in court. The $7.7 billion expansion is building new stations northward along Manhattan's Upper East Side toward the Harlem neighborhood, with the federal government covering approximately $3.4 billion of the total cost.

US pushes 'trade over aid' plan at UN as humanitarian groups warn against privatization

2026-04-16

The Trump administration is pressing foreign governments to back a "Trade Over Aid Initiative" at the United Nations, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordering all U.S. diplomats to recruit high-level support ahead of a formal UN introduction scheduled for the end of April, according to a diplomatic cable obtained by The Associated Press. The United Nations warned Wednesday that trade and investment must not be used to replace principled humanitarian assistance.

Lawmakers raise AI safety fears at House Oversight subcommittee roundtable

2026-04-16

Congressional lawmakers on Thursday held a roundtable on artificial intelligence and American power that quickly shifted from policy questions to safety concerns, including fears about misuse of AI likenesses, sensitive data handling, and potential risks to national security. Lawmakers also discussed the technology’s energy demands, possible climate impacts and, amid rapid advances, worries about establishing guardrails before AI outpaces oversight.

Democrats scramble for attention and cash in Georgia governor's race

2026-04-16

ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia Democrats are seeking to reset their campaign message and fundraising ahead of the May 19 governor’s primary, but their field is attracting far less money and media attention than four years ago. The Democratic contest has multiple candidates, including former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and challengers such as Geoff Duncan, Jason Esteves and Mike Thurmond, as Republicans spend heavily on advertising. The Democratic Governors Association says it will help ensure whoever wins the nomination has funding for the general election.

Virginia ex-lieutenant governor Fairfax dead in apparent murder-suicide

2026-04-16

Former Virginia Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax killed himself and his estranged wife, Dr. Cerina Fairfax, on Thursday, police said. The apparent murder-suicide occurred at their home in Annandale, Virginia, with their two children in the home. The deaths came during divorce proceedings, just two weeks before a court-ordered deadline for Fairfax to vacate the family residence.

SantaCon organizer Stefan Pildes charged with wire fraud over charity funds

2026-04-16

Authorities allege SantaCon organizer Stefan Pildes pocketed most of $2.7 million raised for charity from 2019 to 2024, using proceeds for personal expenses rather than neighborhood charities. Pildes, 50, of Hewitt, New Jersey, was arrested and appeared in Manhattan federal court after prosecutors filed a wire fraud charge, federal prosecutors said.

Roblox reaches $12 million settlement with Nevada over youth protections

2026-04-16

Roblox will implement increased protections for minors and pay more than $12 million to Nevada under a settlement announced April 15, resolving potential litigation over child safety on the gaming platform. Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford said the agreement would serve as a model for how online interactive platforms should safeguard young users.

Trump expected to nominate Cameron Hamilton as FEMA administrator

2026-04-16

Trump plans to nominate Cameron Hamilton, a former U.S. Navy SEAL and the person the administration fired as FEMA’s acting leader last year, to serve as the agency’s permanent administrator, according to a person familiar with the matter. The Homeland Security Department and Congress have been debating how FEMA should be reshaped as the agency has cycled through temporary leaders.

Pope calls for breaking corruption “chains” during visit to Cameroon

2026-04-16

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Cameroon and urged President Paul Biya and other government officials to break the “chains of corruption” as part of his themes of peace and anti-corruption during a visit. In remarks at the presidential palace in Yaounde, the pope tied legitimate authority to serving the common good and called for greater transparency in public finances.

BBC to cut up to 2,000 jobs to save 10% of annual budget

2026-04-16

BBC said it plans to cut up to 2,000 jobs to save about 10% of its annual budget over the next two years, with the bulk of cuts aimed at the fiscal year beginning April 1, 2027. The cuts, announced during a call with staff, are the biggest at the U.K. public broadcaster in more than a decade, interim Director-General Rhodri Talfan Davies said.

States recalibrate clean-energy rules as affordability takes center stage

2026-04-16

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is seeking delays to state climate goals, arguing that implementing key clean-energy requirements now could raise energy prices for families. The move comes as several Democratic governors and lawmakers across the Northeast weigh affordability agendas against emissions-cutting targets.

QVC Group plans Chapter 11 bankruptcy as TikTok Shop and online rivals erode TV shopping

2026-04-16

QVC Group, the West Chester, Pennsylvania, company that owns home shopping networks QVC and HSN, disclosed plans to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in an annual report filed this week with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company said it has reached a restructuring agreement with creditors and intends to file in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas. QVC Group said it aims to emerge from bankruptcy before the end of summer, though it cautioned that its access to funding is difficult to predict.

China escalates pressure on underground Catholics to join state church

2026-04-16

Chinese authorities are escalating pressure on underground Catholic communities to join the state-controlled official church, according to Human Rights Watch. The rights group released a report Wednesday documenting a decade-long campaign of detention, forced disappearance, and house arrest of bishops and priests as the government seeks to ensure all religious groups remain loyal to the Communist Party. The escalation affects an estimated 12 million Catholics in China, who face tightened surveillance and travel restrictions.

Google blocked 99% of scam ads using AI in 2025, report shows

2026-04-16

Google's annual ads safety report released Thursday detailed how the company's artificial intelligence blocked over 99% of policy-violating advertisements in 2025, part of a broader push to defend against AI-generated spam and scams. The company blocked or removed 8.3 billion ads total last year, up from 5.1 billion in 2024, with 602 million of those carrying scam-related violations, according to the report.

Former Washington Post editor Baron warns of journalism's fading ethical compass

2026-04-16

Marty Baron, the retired editor of The Washington Post and former leader of The Boston Globe and The Miami Herald, warned Wednesday that American journalism is losing its shared ethical foundation, telling an audience at New York University that "to each his own" is becoming the evolving ethos for many who cover and comment on the news. Baron delivered the critique in a keynote address as NYU presented its annual journalism awards, praising the Associated Press and criticizing CBS News leadership, partisan cable networks, and mainstream reporters he said failed to aggressively cover former President Joe Biden's fitness for office.

Hawaii agency approves $4.9M land purchase to acquire hazardous Wahiawā dam

2026-04-16

Directors of the Hawaiʻi Agribusiness Development Corp. voted unanimously Wednesday to approve a $4.9 million purchase of 142.5 acres on which the 120-year-old Wahiawā dam and spillway sit, moving the state closer to completing a multiagency takeover of a structure that carries the nation's highest federal hazard rating. The vote came weeks after Kona storms pushed Wahiawā Reservoir to within three feet of its brim and triggered the evacuation of thousands of downstream residents on Oʻahu's North Shore.

California bill delays compliance with federal health subpoenas for trans, abortion care

2026-04-16

A California bill advancing through the state Legislature would require medical providers and affiliated businesses to notify the state attorney general before complying with federal subpoenas seeking records related to abortion, gender-affirming or reproductive care — a measure that three independent constitutional scholars say may face substantial legal challenge. Assembly Bill 1930, authored by Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur of Los Angeles and co-sponsored by Attorney General Rob Bonta, passed the Assembly Judiciary Committee on a party-line vote after 17 minutes of discussion and now moves to the Assembly Public Safety Committee.

NYC Mayor Mamdani earned $1,643 in rap royalties in 2025, tax filings show

2026-04-16

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani earned $1,643 in music royalties from his early rap career in 2025, according to tax filings shared with reporters Thursday. The 34-year-old Democrat, who performed under the names "Young Cardamom" and "Mr. Cardamom," saw only a modest increase from $1,267 in royalties the year before. Mamdani joked that New Yorkers wanting to improve his bottom line should "go to Spotify," adding: "A lot of people say they're listening. They're not listening."

Forest Service proposes sustained-yield timber unit to shore up Montana logging industry

2026-04-16

The U.S. Forest Service has proposed creating a Tri-Forest Federal Sustained Yield Unit that would direct three Montana national forests to supply local businesses with at least 35 million board feet of timber per year, invoking an 82-year-old federal law in a bid to stabilize the state's faltering logging sector. The agency unveiled the proposal last month, citing the recent closure of the Pyramid Mountain Lumber sawmill in Seeley Lake and the shuttering of the Roseburg Wood Products facility in Missoula as evidence of the industry's vulnerability. The proposal drew mixed reactions at a Forest Service public hearing in Helena.

Netflix cofounder Reed Hastings to step down from board in June

2026-04-16

Reed Hastings, the cofounder and chairman of Netflix, will leave the streaming company's board of directors in June when his current term expires, Netflix said Thursday. Hastings, who served as Netflix's chief executive for more than two decades before stepping down in 2023, said he plans to focus on philanthropy and other pursuits.

Minnesota probes federal officers over two killings, wounding and highway assault

2026-04-16

Hennepin County on Thursday charged an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent with pointing a gun at a motorist and passenger on a Minneapolis highway — what a local prosecutor described as the first criminal case brought against a federal officer involved in the Twin Cities immigration enforcement operation. The charge against ICE agent Gregory Donnell Morgan Jr. is one of several active investigations into federal officers' conduct during the Trump administration's immigration enforcement campaign in Minnesota, which has included two deaths, at least one other shooting and dozens of additional incidents under prosecutorial review.

Massachusetts $5M immigrant legal aid program at capacity as removal cases top 126,000

2026-04-16

A Massachusetts state program that launched at the end of 2025 to provide free legal representation to immigrants in removal proceedings reached capacity less than five months after launch, with a program hotline receiving 6,000 calls since December but finding attorneys for fewer than half of eligible callers, as pending removal cases against state residents topped 126,000, program officials said.

DEA informant avoids prison for failing to pay taxes on $3.8 million in payments

2026-04-16

A longtime Drug Enforcement Administration informant was sentenced Wednesday in Austin, Texas, to time served after pleading guilty to failing to report $3.8 million in DEA payments on his federal tax returns. Andres Zapata, 48, a Colombian-American dual national and professional money launderer, received the sentence as part of a cooperation agreement in a decade-long investigation into agent misconduct, according to two people not authorized to discuss the inquiry who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

Ex-NBA player Damon Jones set to plead guilty in basketball gambling sweep

2026-04-16

Former NBA player Damon Jones is expected to become the first person to plead guilty in a federal gambling sweep that led to the arrests of more than 30 people, including reputed mobsters and other basketball figures, according to the Associated Press. Jones, 49, is scheduled for plea change hearings on April 28 in Brooklyn federal court in two separate cases — one charging him with profiting from rigged poker games and another alleging he sold non-public injury information about LeBron James and Anthony Davis to sports bettors.

Venezuelan doctor detained at Texas airport before asylum interview

2026-04-16

A Venezuelan emergency room physician was detained by immigration officials at a Texas airport Saturday while attempting to join her husband for a long-awaited asylum interview, entering her sixth day in detention at the time the Associated Press reported the case. Dr. Rubeliz Bolivar, who held work authorization valid through 2030, was arrested at McAllen International Airport by Customs and Border Protection while traveling to Los Angeles where her husband, Milenko Faria, had scheduled an asylum interview Thursday after waiting more than a decade for the appointment.

Brazil's ex-intelligence chief freed by ICE after two-day Florida detention

2026-04-16

Alexandre Ramagem, Brazil's former intelligence agency chief who was sentenced to 16 years in prison for his role in a 2023 coup attempt, was released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody in Florida on Wednesday after a two-day detention, according to the Associated Press. Ramagem thanked President Donald Trump in posts on his social media channels for the release, though he provided no evidence that Trump had any connection to the move. ICE did not respond to the AP's request for comment.

New York to lose $73.5M in federal funds over unrevoked immigrant CDLs

2026-04-16

The U.S. Department of Transportation announced Thursday it will withhold more than $73.5 million in federal funding from New York state after the state refused to revoke 32,606 non-domiciled commercial driver's licenses issued to immigrants that a federal audit found had significant problems. More than half of the 200 licenses reviewed during the audit had serious deficiencies — including licenses that remained valid long after the holder's authorization to be in the country had expired — according to the department.

China warns travelers to avoid Seattle airport after 20 scholars denied entry

2026-04-16

China's foreign ministry and embassy urged citizens traveling to the United States to avoid Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Thursday, citing what Chinese officials described as a pattern of continual harassment by U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel. The advisory followed the denial of entry to about 20 Chinese scholars who arrived at the airport with valid visas to attend an academic conference.

Simple workplace changes help autistic employees thrive, experts say

2026-04-16

Autism spectrum disorder affects roughly 1 in 45 adults in the U.S., yet many autistic workers report burning out in jobs where their communication styles and sensory needs go unaddressed. In April, workplace inclusion experts and people on the autism spectrum outlined practical, low-cost accommodations that help autistic employees contribute at their fullest — changes that benefit neurodivergent and neurotypical workers alike.

Starmer faces resignation calls after Mandelson failed security vetting for ambassador post

2026-04-16

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced calls Thursday to resign after the government acknowledged that Peter Mandelson, the former ambassador to the United States, was initially denied security clearance for the post before the Foreign Office overruled the vetting process. The disclosure, first reported by the Guardian, directly contradicts Starmer's repeated public assurances that proper vetting procedures were followed in Mandelson's appointment.

Fujimori leads Peru's first round; runoff second slot hangs on fewer than 8,000 votes

2026-04-16

LIMA, Peru — With 93% of ballots counted from Sunday's presidential first round, Keiko Fujimori led a crowded 35-candidate field Thursday with 17.06% of the vote, while a margin of fewer than 8,000 votes left the second runoff berth unresolved between a nationalist congressman and an ultraconservative former mayor, according to official results. Roberto Sánchez, a congressman and former minister under imprisoned ex-President Pedro Castillo, held second place with 11.97%. Rafael López Aliaga, former mayor of Lima, trailed in third with 11.91%. Electoral authorities said the final determination could take weeks.

Meta ends Kenya contract, leaving 1,108 Sama workers facing layoffs

2026-04-16

Sama, a technology company that has faced litigation in Kenya over the treatment of African content moderators, announced Thursday it will lay off 1,108 workers at its Nairobi office after Meta issued formal notice ending a major service engagement. Sama said it received notice from Meta to terminate the contract and had issued a layoff notice covering all affected employees. The company said it was "actively supporting affected employees with care and respect."

'Becoming Chinese' meme signals new phase of China's global soft power reach

2026-04-16

Young adults across the world have spent recent months flooding social media with videos proclaiming they are "becoming Chinese" — embracing habits like drinking hot water steeped with goji berries, eating dumplings, and wearing slippers indoors — in a viral trend that has drawn the attention of Chinese diplomats, the Associated Press reported. Xie Feng, China's ambassador to the United States, cited the social media wave while promoting a new visa-free transit policy and urging Americans to "experience for yourselves a real, dynamic and panoramic China."

Benin's Constitutional Court confirms Wadagni wins presidency with 94% of vote

2026-04-16

Benin's Constitutional Court on Thursday confirmed Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni as the West African country's president-elect, ratifying his first-round landslide in Sunday's election in which he received 94.27% of votes against a single opponent. The court said voter turnout reached 63.57%. Opponent Paul Hounkpè, who received 5.73% of ballots, has five days to file any appeals before the court announces final results.

Mississippi auditor demands $7.4M from private prison operator over staffing failures

2026-04-16

Mississippi State Auditor Shad White on Monday demanded that Management & Training Corporation pay $7.4 million to the state for failing to maintain required staffing levels at two Mississippi correctional facilities, in what White called among the largest civil demands in the history of his office. MTC, a Utah-based private prison company, manages the East Mississippi Correctional Facility in Meridian and the Wilkinson County Correctional Facility in Woodville, as well as numerous other prisons across the country. White said he has referred the matter to the attorney general's office for enforcement after MTC failed to pay within the 30-day deadline required by Mississippi law.

U.S. families challenge Italy's ancestry citizenship law at Court of Cassation

2026-04-16

Two American families argued before Italy's Court of Cassation on Tuesday that a 2025 law curtailing citizenship by ancestry should not apply to people whose lineage predates its enactment, in a challenge that could restore an Italian citizenship path for millions of diaspora descendants across the United States and Latin America. Attorney Marco Mellone told an expanded panel of the court that the restriction enacted by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government in March 2025 should govern only people born after it took effect. A separate attorney represented Venezuelan descendants of Italian immigrants at the same hearing.

Neurosurgeon denies fault in Maradona death as new trial opens

2026-04-16

Neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque testified Thursday in a trial examining Diego Maradona's death, declaring his innocence and expressing love for the soccer legend. Maradona died of a heart attack on November 25, 2020, while recovering at home from subdural hematoma surgery. Seven health professionals, including Luque, face charges of negligent homicide carrying a maximum 25-year prison sentence.

Carney suspends Canada’s fuel tax in response to Iran war

2026-04-15

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Tuesday suspended the federal fuel excise tax in his first act after securing a majority government, citing sharp fuel-price increases linked to the Iran war. The suspension starts next Monday and runs through Labor Day, Sept. 7.

Senate rejects Iran war halt for fourth time as GOP eyes 60-day deadline

2026-04-15

The Republican-led Senate voted 47 to 52 on Wednesday to reject a Democratic resolution requiring U.S. forces to withdraw from the Iran war unless Congress authorizes further action — the fourth time this year the chamber has declined to halt the conflict. The vote came as lawmakers from both parties acknowledged a statutory deadline arriving at the end of April.

Trump clashes with Pope Leo XIV over Iran war, peace appeals

2026-04-15

Pope Leo XIV on April 14 pushed back on President Donald Trump’s criticism of the Vatican’s approach to the war in Iran, telling reporters he was “not afraid of the Trump administration” and that the pope’s mission was grounded in the Gospel. Trump, meanwhile, used posts on Truth Social to describe Leo as “Weak” and to say Leo owed his position to Trump, as the two men increasingly engaged each other publicly over the conflict.

Kennedy Center seeks to sell renovation plan ahead of July closure

2026-04-15

The Kennedy Center’s new leadership is guiding lawmakers on tours through parts of the Washington venue to argue the building needs a fundamental renovation, ahead of a scheduled two-year closure beginning in July. Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer Matt Floca said the effort is meant to show Congress and the public “what’s at stake and why the work can’t wait.” The tours have included Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and a representative for Mayor Muriel Bowser, among others.

Trump budget director defends plan to lift defense spending to nearly $1.5 trillion

2026-04-15

Russell Vought, director of the Office of Management and Budget, told a House budget committee Wednesday that expanding the U.S. defense industrial base will require a large upfront investment, defending the White House's proposal to increase defense spending to nearly $1.5 trillion in the next fiscal year — up more than 40 percent from the nearly $1 trillion allocated this year.

Swalwell and Gonzales resign from Congress amid sexual misconduct allegations

2026-04-15

Reps. Eric Swalwell of California and Tony Gonzales of Texas resigned from Congress on Monday within hours of each other, both facing imminent expulsion votes after a bipartisan group of congresswomen threatened to force the issue. The two men — a Democrat and a Republican — were each accused of sexual misconduct toward staff members, violations of House conduct rules that bar members from sexual relationships with their employees.

Jackson calls Supreme Court emergency orders 'scratch-paper musings' in Yale speech

2026-04-15

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson delivered a sustained public critique of the Supreme Court's conservative majority Monday, calling the emergency stay orders that have allowed President Donald Trump to implement contested immigration and federal spending policies "back-of-the-envelope, first-blush impressions" that can "seem oblivious and thus ring hollow." Jackson spoke for nearly an hour at Yale Law School, addressing roughly two dozen emergency orders the court issued last year that let the Trump administration move ahead with immigration restrictions, steep federal funding cuts, and other controversial policies while lower courts were weighing whether those measures were likely illegal. Yale Law School posted video of the event on Wednesday.

Appeals court orders judge to end contempt probe over Trump deportation flights

2026-04-15

A divided panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled Tuesday that a federal judge must stop his “intrusive” criminal contempt investigation into the Trump administration’s deportation flights to El Salvador. The court said Chief Judge James Boasberg abused his discretion by moving forward even though the order he cited did not meet the standard for criminal contempt.

Trump urges Congress to extend Section 702 foreign surveillance as votes stall

2026-04-15

Congress is set to consider the renewal of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, a program that allows U.S. spy agencies to collect overseas communications without a warrant. President Donald Trump urged lawmakers to extend the foreign surveillance authority for 18 more months, even as critics push for warrant requirements and tighter limits on how Americans’ data is handled. House Republican leaders canceled planned votes earlier this week amid difficulties reaching an agreement, with Congress facing an expiration deadline on Monday.

What to expect in New Jersey’s special House election to replace Sherrill

2026-04-15

New Jersey voters in the 11th Congressional District will elect a replacement for Democratic Gov. Mikie Sherrill in a special congressional election Thursday. The seat was last held by Sherrill, and Democrats are aiming to keep the district moving in their direction while Republicans try to narrow the party’s House majority gap. The Associated Press said it will not call a winner until it determines there is no scenario that would allow trailing candidates to close the gap.

House votes to extend Haiti TPS protections, in rebuke to Trump plan

2026-04-15

The U.S. House on Thursday passed a bill that would extend temporary protected status for Haitian immigrants for three years, a rare bipartisan rebuke to President Donald Trump’s effort to end the program. The measure passed 224-204 and now faces uncertainty in the Senate, where Trump would likely seek to veto it, according to the Associated Press.

Nonprofit sector steps in to rescue Pittsburgh Post-Gazette from shutdown

2026-04-15

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette said Tuesday it prevented an imminent shutdown after a nonprofit journalism operation agreed to buy the struggling newspaper, highlighting a broader shift as advertising and circulation revenues decline. The Associated Press also reviewed other newspaper deals in which nonprofit news organizations moved to keep papers alive.

Tennessee Senate passes amended transgender health care tracking bill

2026-04-15

Tennessee’s Senate on Monday passed an amended bill that would require certain health care providers and insurers to report transgender-related care to the state, according to the Associated Press. The vote came 24 to 7 after more than half an hour of debate, with Democrats and Sen. John Stevens voting against. The bill’s sponsors said the measure would provide transparency, while opponents and protesters argued it would expose non-cisgender people.

Maine legislature approves nation's first statewide data center moratorium bill

2026-04-15

Maine's Democratic-controlled legislature approved a bill Tuesday that would impose a yearlong moratorium on large data centers, sending what would be the nation's first statewide pause on the energy-hungry facilities to Gov. Janet Mills for her signature. The measure follows intense community backlash against proposed projects in Maine and escalating concerns about electricity costs, potential blackouts, and water consumption tied to the AI-driven surge in data center construction.

Democrats boast fundraising hauls in key Senate races as court contests loom

2026-04-15

Democrats reported strong early fundraising totals for several competitive Senate races, using the money to build support and counter Republican attacks ahead of midterm contests. The Associated Press reports that in the first three months of 2026, Texas Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico said his campaign raised $27 million, while Democratic incumbents and challengers in Georgia, Ohio and other states reported totals including $14 million for Sen. Jon Ossoff and $10.1 million for former Sen. Sherrod Brown. But AP’s reporting also highlights a broader financial imbalance for Democrats at the national party level and in states the GOP won in 2024.

Melania Trump urges Congress to update foster care support for youth

2026-04-15

Melania Trump visited Capitol Hill on Wednesday to press lawmakers to pass bills that would broaden access to services for young people in foster care as they age out, calling it a “moral imperative.” The first lady met with members of the House Ways and Means Committee and heard from people who said the current system leaves foster youth with gaps in housing, transportation and education.

Democrats seek to overturn Trump rules for Public Service Loan Forgiveness

2026-04-15

Democrats in Congress introduced resolutions aimed at overturning Trump administration changes to Public Service Loan Forgiveness, arguing the rule is political and could deny relief to some eligible borrowers. The program cancels remaining federal student loans for qualified public service workers after 10 years of payments, but the administration’s new rule would let the Education secretary remove certain employers from eligibility based on a vague standard.

House Democrats launch task force to target Trump on corruption ahead of midterms

2026-04-15

House Democrats are launching a task force aimed at overhauling ethics rules, protecting access to the ballot, and highlighting Trump family business dealings as Democrats seek political momentum before the midterm elections, according to an Associated Press report. Rep. Joe Morelle will spearhead the effort, which will include progressive and moderate members and draws on messaging tactics used by Hungarian opposition forces after Viktor Orbán’s ouster, AP reported.

Trump bets tax cuts for tips on message help in Las Vegas midterms

2026-04-15

President Donald Trump is campaigning in Las Vegas for the 2026 midterm elections, telling tipped workers that tax breaks he signed last year are leaving “more money in their pockets.” The pitch comes as many residents say higher gas prices have eroded that relief during the war involving Iran, which the White House links to the elevated fuel costs.

Judge temporarily reinstates Texas HUB rules for women, minority firms

2026-04-15

An Austin district judge on Monday ordered Texas’s Historically Underutilized Business Program rules to be temporarily reinstated, allowing women- and minority-owned businesses to qualify for the state’s HUB program again while a lawsuit proceeds. The move came after plaintiffs sued the state and the acting Texas comptroller, alleging emergency changes removed women and minorities from the program and stripped some businesses of HUB certifications.

Redistricting battle reshapes U.S. House map ahead of midterms

2026-04-15

Republicans and Democrats have been reshaping state congressional districts ahead of the November midterm elections, changing the electoral map in several battleground states. Florida’s Republican-led legislature has approved new House districts that could boost GOP prospects, while Democrats in Virginia recently won voter approval for a new U.S. House map aimed at flipping seats.

Mexico’s Sheinbaum pushes back on Trump over migrant deaths in custody

2026-04-15

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday protested the deaths of Mexican citizens in U.S. immigration custody and vowed to press the issue through international rights bodies and U.S. lawsuits. She spoke a day after Alejandro Cabrera Clemente, 49, died in an ICE detention center in Louisiana.

Rep. Clay Fuller sworn in after winning Georgia seat once held by Greene

2026-04-15

Republican Rep. Clay Fuller of Georgia was sworn into the U.S. House on Tuesday after winning a special election to fill the seat formerly held by Marjorie Taylor Greene, according to the Associated Press. Fuller will serve out the remaining months of Greene’s term and keep Republicans’ slim majority in the House.

Republicans plan GOP-only path to fund Homeland Security shut down

2026-04-15

Republicans in Congress are preparing to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security in a strategy Senate Majority Leader John Thune called “the hard way,” after bipartisan talks stalled, leaving the department shut down for nearly two months. Thune said the GOP plan would bypass Democrats and use budget reconciliation to pass an ICE and Customs and Border Protection funding bill with a simple majority in the 53-47 Senate. Democrats, led by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, said they will continue pressing for restraints and changes to President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement.

Swalwell exits Congress and California governor race amid misconduct allegations

2026-04-15

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell announced he is leaving Congress and suspended his bid for California governor as lawmakers pressed for a bipartisan vote to expel him. The Associated Press reports that the move followed allegations of sexual misconduct that he denies and additional accusations reported by CNN.

Democrats line up to run in proposed Virginia 7th District

2026-04-15

Democrats in Virginia are lining up to run in newly created congressional districts even before voters decide on a new congressional map, with the April 21 decision poised to determine boundaries for the 2026 midterms. Olivia Troye, a former aide to Mike Pence who has become a critic of President Donald Trump, announced that she will run in the newly created 7th Congressional District.

Maryland Democrats drop mid-decade congressional map push backed by Wes Moore

2026-04-15

Maryland Democrats rejected an effort to redraw the state’s congressional map to improve Democrats’ chances in the midterm elections, a setback for Gov. Wes Moore. The proposal failed as the Maryland General Assembly ended its session late Monday, with Democrats in the Senate leaving the bill in committee.

U.S. sanctions Mexican casinos, people tied to Cartel del Noreste

2026-04-15

The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned three individuals and two casinos this week over alleged links to Mexico’s Cartel del Noreste, which Washington has intensified its crackdown on. The designations include casinos in Nuevo Laredo and Tampico, and individuals described by U.S. authorities as helping the cartel move people and provide illicit support.

Dearborn's Arab Americans find Middle East peace further away under Trump

2026-04-15

Eighteen months after helping elect Donald Trump to a second term with hopes he would bring peace to the Middle East, Arab Americans in Dearborn, Michigan—the nation's largest Arab American community—say the conflict has worsened instead. Inside mosques and at vigils, families wait for word from relatives abroad while mourning those already lost. The conflict that began with anguish over Gaza has widened to Lebanon, where the expanding war has displaced more than 1 million people and killed more than 2,000.

Vance meets sparse Athens crowd as Iran war, Trump's Jesus meme draw conservative criticism

2026-04-15

Vice President JD Vance traveled to Athens, Georgia on Wednesday for a Turning Point USA campus forum intended to showcase conservative youth energy, but found a mostly empty arena and pointed questions from attendees who said President Donald Trump's ongoing war with Iran, a social media meme depicting Trump as Jesus Christ, and his public clashes with Pope Leo XIV had cost him their support. Attendees at the University of Georgia venue were outnumbered more than 2-to-1 by empty seats, the Associated Press reported — a stark contrast to the overflow rallies the organization helped organize during Trump's 2024 campaign. Vance arrived in Georgia fresh from a trip to Pakistan that failed to produce a deal to end the war with Iran.

Nearly 200 groups demand restoration of $350M in federal solar funds for Puerto Rico

2026-04-15

Nearly 200 organizations called Wednesday on the Trump administration and Puerto Rico's governor to restore $350 million in federal funding for rooftop solar and battery systems, warning that low-income families dependent on medical equipment face potentially fatal consequences from chronic power outages as Atlantic hurricane season approaches. The letter, addressed to Puerto Rico Gov. Jenniffer González and U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, was released as a May 9 deadline nears — the date at which a solar installation program that has left 12,000 low-income families in limbo will formally expire.

Pope Leo XIV doubles down on peace message as Trump criticism intensifies

2026-04-15

Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday reinforced his call for peace and dialogue as U.S. President Donald Trump continued a week of public attacks on history's first American-born pope, accusing him of weakness on crime, claiming him as a political captive, and asserting that Leo owed his election to Trump. Speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane en route to Cameroon, Leo said the message "the world needs to hear today" is one of peace and dialogue. Leo made no mention of Trump's latest social media posts or the suggestion by Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic convert, that the pope should "be careful" when speaking about theology.

Camp Mystic official says flood deaths not reported to state agency

2026-04-15

A medical officer for Camp Mystic in Texas testified in court that she still has not officially reported deaths from a July 4 predawn flood to the state health agency that regulates camps. The testimony came during a legal fight between families of victims and the camp’s operators over whether parts of the property should be preserved as evidence before the camp seeks to reopen.

Trump again denies Colorado disaster-aid request after FEMA appeal

2026-04-15

President Donald Trump again denied a request from Colorado Gov. Jared Polis for major disaster declarations after wildfires and flooding, denying FEMA public assistance and hazard-mitigation funding. FEMA acting administrator Karen S. Evans upheld the decision on appeal in letters to Polis. Polis said the outcome was “incredibly disappointing.”

Massachusetts income tax cut ballot question divides business groups and lawmakers

2026-04-15

A ballot proposal that would reduce Massachusetts' state income tax rate from 5% to 4% has pitted business coalitions against union leaders and Democratic lawmakers, with both sides projecting sharply different consequences for the state's roughly $61 billion budget. The measure remains before the Joint Committee on Initiative Petitions and has not been certified for the November ballot. House Speaker Ron Mariano said raising other taxes is a possibility if voters approve the question, but recently indicated he is open to negotiating a compromise with the committee that organized it. The committee said it is open to that idea.

Illinois lawmakers refuse to accept corrections audit findings, demand agency return

2026-04-15

Illinois's Legislative Audit Commission refused Tuesday to accept a state Department of Corrections audit that found 40 failures — including a decade-old overtime scheme that cost the state $150 million in fiscal year 2024 — and ordered the agency to return with answers on its remediation progress. The bipartisan commission, which reviews audits of state agencies, questioned Corrections Director LaToya Hughes over findings that auditors said had persisted in some cases since 2014 despite repeated departmental commitments to address them. "There is literally nothing that you guys can say that I would believe," commission co-chair Sen. Chapin Rose, R-Mahomet, said. "And honestly, it's about the safety of people in the state and the safety of the men and women that work there."

Atlanta-area attacks leave 2 dead, DHS worker among victims; suspect charged

2026-04-15

Authorities say Olaolukitan Adon Abel has been charged in a series of attacks in the Atlanta suburbs that killed two women and critically injured a man, according to court and police accounts. The attacks occurred Monday in Decatur-area, Brookhaven, and Panthersville neighborhoods in the early morning hours, officials said. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin called the shootings “acts of pure evil.”

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette finds nonprofit buyer, avoids shutdown on May 3

2026-04-15

Barely two weeks after announcing a plan to shut down, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette said it has found a buyer that will keep the newspaper operating under a nonprofit journalism model. The newspaper had been scheduled to close on May 3, but Block Communications announced the sale to the Venetoulis Institute for Local Journalism, which publishes the digital Baltimore Banner.

Rights groups urge Kazakhstan’s President Tokayev to ensure press freedom

2026-04-15

A coalition of international press freedom and human rights groups urged Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to drop criminal charges against journalists placed under house arrest and to revise laws they say restrict media freedom. In a letter sent Monday, the groups said arrests and harassment of independent outlets have escalated and warned the pressure could fuel “a climate of fear and self-censorship.”

Trump Justice Department fires four FACE Act prosecutors amid bias probe

2026-04-15

The Trump administration fired four U.S. Justice Department prosecutors involved in cases targeting anti-abortion activists, the Justice Department said on Tuesday. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said the dismissals were meant to stop what he described as selective prosecution under the Biden administration’s Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances, or FACE, Act cases.

Irish government survives confidence vote over fuel protests

2026-04-15

Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin’s coalition government survived a Tuesday confidence vote tied to how it handled a week of disruptive fuel protests that blocked access to oil supplies, left some gas pumps dry and snarled traffic in Dublin. The vote was 92-78 in favor of the government, with Martin defending the response as efforts to end a “destructive blockade which threatened to cause much deeper damage.”

Young Hungarians use music to celebrate Orbán’s election defeat

2026-04-15

Hungarian youth who came of age under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s 16-year rule helped fuel the momentum leading up to Sunday’s vote, Associated Press reported. As hundreds of thousands celebrated the victory of pro-European candidate Péter Magyar, young people used concerts, tram rides and online sounds to amplify anti-Orbán chants.

California woman says Rep. Eric Swalwell raped her in 2018

2026-04-15

A California woman said Tuesday that Rep. Eric Swalwell raped her in 2018 and plans to report the allegation to law enforcement. The woman, Lonna Drewes, said she believes Swalwell drugged her and sexually assaulted her at a hotel in Southern California.

Asian surnames fastest-growing in U.S., Census data show

2026-04-15

The U.S. Census Bureau said Tuesday that while the most popular last names remain the same over the decade, Asian surnames were the fastest-growing early in this decade. The agency said the top five last names in the United States in 2020—Smith, Johnson, Williams, Brown and Jones—matched the top five in 2010, but that many of the fastest-growing surnames were Asian.

Bodycam video contradicts St. Louis police account in teen shooting

2026-04-15

Body-camera video released Monday shows a St. Louis police officer fatally shooting a 17-year-old in the back of the head as he fled, contradicting an earlier police account that said the teen pointed a gun at officers. The family’s attorney, Al Watkins, said he obtained the video through discovery in a federal lawsuit after a records request attempt failed.

America at 250: visitors reflect as Declaration stirs hope and doubt

2026-04-15

WASHINGTON (AP) — On America’s 250th anniversary, visitors to the National Archives’ Rotunda reflected on whether the country is living up to the ideals of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights amid political division and anxiety over representative government. Many said they still hope the nation can repair itself, while others pointed to concerns about constitutional rights and recent immigration enforcement actions.

Colombia authorizes euthanasia protocol for about 80 hippos descended from Escobar

2026-04-15

El gobierno colombiano autorizó el lunes un protocolo para practicar la eutanasia a unos 80 hipopótamos descendientes de los ejemplares introducidos de forma ilegal por Pablo Escobar en la década de 1980. La ministra de Ambiente, Irene Vélez, firmó la directiva y dijo que las medidas se aplicarían en el segundo semestre del año, ya con un nuevo presidente en funciones desde el 7 de agosto.

Energy Secretary Wright says U.S. ‘wrong direction’ during pipeline remarks

2026-04-15

Energy Secretary Chris Wright raised eyebrows Tuesday after remarks at a groundbreaking for a natural gas pipeline project included a line suggesting the United States was going “in the wrong direction.” In what Energy Department officials later said was an editing issue, the department posted excerpts that did not include the comment.

Prosecutors charge man shot by ICE in California with assaulting officer

2026-04-15

A man who was shot multiple times during an April 7 arrest by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers in central California was charged Tuesday with assaulting a federal officer, prosecutors said. The case is in federal court in Sacramento, where a magistrate judge set a $50,000 bond after ordering him released pending further review.

US families challenge Italy’s citizenship-by-descent law at Cassation

2026-04-15

Two U.S. families went before Italy’s highest court Tuesday to challenge a year-old law that limits Italian citizenship-by-descent to people whose Italian ancestors qualify under the rules set by Giorgia Meloni’s government. Attorneys argued the Cassation Court should narrow the law so it applies only to people born after it took effect, potentially affecting descendants in the United States and parts of Latin America.

Guards accused of beating detainees at Florida's 'Alligator Alcatraz'

2026-04-15

Guards at Florida's "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration detention facility severely beat and pepper-sprayed detainees on April 2 after they complained about non-functioning phones, according to a court declaration filed by attorney Katherine Blankenship on behalf of two detainees held at the remote Everglades site. Blankenship said guards began taunting detainees who had raised concerns about inoperable phones — their primary means of reaching family and attorneys — before the confrontation turned physical. One of her clients was punched in the right eye, thrown to the floor, beaten by several guards, kicked in the head, and had a guard's knee pressed to his neck while being restrained, she wrote.

EPA proposes reclassifying plastic pyrolysis, potentially gutting air pollution controls

2026-04-15

The Environmental Protection Agency is considering reclassifying chemical plastic recycling facilities as manufacturers rather than incinerators under the Clean Air Act, a move environmental advocates say would immediately eliminate federal air pollution controls at those sites and expose surrounding communities to toxic emissions. The agency has solicited public comment on a potential rule that would shift pyrolysis plants — which use heat to break down plastics — out of Clean Air Act Section 129, which limits emissions of nine air pollutants including toxic particulates, heavy metals, and dioxins, the Associated Press reported April 15.

FDA to weigh easing limits on unproven peptides favored by RFK Jr.

2026-04-15

The Food and Drug Administration announced Wednesday it will convene an outside advisory panel in July to consider whether seven unapproved peptide injections should be cleared for production by compounding pharmacies, and said it will soon remove the substances from its restricted list of high-risk, unapproved drugs. The announcement follows repeated pledges by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to loosen regulations on peptides, a class of compounds popular among wellness influencers that have not been reviewed for safety by the FDA.

Hochul proposes pied-à-terre tax on NYC second homes over $5 million

2026-04-15

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul proposed Wednesday allowing New York City to impose a tax surcharge on second homes worth more than $5 million, a measure her office projected could raise at least $500 million annually as Mayor Zohran Mamdani works to close a multibillion-dollar budget gap. Hochul, a moderate Democrat who has repeatedly resisted calls for broad tax increases on the wealthy, framed the proposal as a targeted compromise — hitting absentee luxury property owners rather than raising personal income or corporate rates.

Judge extends pause on Maryland warehouse immigrant detention conversion

2026-04-15

A federal judge on Wednesday extended a halt on work to convert an 825,000-square-foot Maryland warehouse into an immigrant detention facility, issuing a preliminary injunction that will remain in place until the state's lawsuit is resolved. The Department of Homeland Security purchased the building near Hagerstown for $102.4 million in January and had planned to house between 500 and 1,500 detainees there. The ruling limits contractors to only minor work — fence installation and heating and cooling upgrades — while the case proceeds.

France presses DHS to free 85-year-old widow of U.S. Army veteran from ICE custody

2026-04-15

The French government is pressing the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to release an 85-year-old French national from immigration custody after she was detained in Alabama for overstaying her visa. Marie-Therese Ross, the widow of a former U.S. Army captain, has been held at a federal immigration detention facility in Louisiana since U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested her on April 1. France's consul general in New Orleans said the government has "fully mobilized" to secure her release.

Tax Day 2026: IRS filing deadline is today with extension option until Oct. 15

2026-04-15

Wednesday, April 15, is the federal tax filing deadline for 2025 returns in the United States, and taxpayers who cannot finish in time have until midnight to request a six-month extension that pushes the filing due date to Oct. 15, the Internal Revenue Service said. The extension grants extra time to file — not extra time to pay. Filers who owe taxes must still submit an estimated payment by Wednesday to avoid penalties and interest, the IRS said.

Millennials, Gen Z push back against smartphones in growing 'attention liberation' movement

2026-04-15

Dozens of millennials and members of Generation Z gathered in Brooklyn apartments and converted office spaces this spring to set their phones aside for evenings of reading, drawing, and face-to-face conversation — part of a small but growing rebellion against what participants call the corporate harvesting of human attention. The gatherings are the American face of an international "attention liberation" movement whose advocates say Big Tech has made its products too addictive for the industry's own corrective tools to fix.

Champlain Valley of Vermont proposed as federally recognized wine region

2026-04-15

Federal regulators have proposed designating Vermont's Champlain Valley as an American viticultural area, a move that would allow local winemakers to mark their bottles with a federally recognized regional label and require that nearly all grapes used in such wines be grown within specified boundaries. The U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau published the proposed rule, which covers land between Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains, stretching from Rutland County to the Canadian border. A public comment period is open until May 26 before federal officials make a final determination.

53 million filers claimed Trump tax breaks; average refund rose 11%, Treasury says

2026-04-15

WASHINGTON — More than 53 million Americans filed returns claiming at least one new provision from Republicans' tax and spending law by Wednesday's Tax Day deadline, according to a Treasury Department official who spoke on condition of anonymity to preview the figures, as IRS data showed the average refund reached $3,462 — up 11%, or about $346, from the prior year's $3,116 average but below the $1,000 increase the White House projected at the start of the filing season.

EU threatens to force Meta to restore WhatsApp access for rival AI chatbots

2026-04-15

The European Commission on Wednesday threatened to order Meta Platforms to restore free access to WhatsApp for competing artificial intelligence chatbot providers, saying Meta's decision to charge rivals for the access amounted to the same anticompetitive barrier regulators had set out to remove. The commission, the 27-nation bloc's executive arm and top antitrust enforcer, opened its investigation in December over concerns that WhatsApp was blocking competing AI companies from offering their assistants on the platform.

Sweden blames pro-Russian group for failed cyberattack on heating plant

2026-04-15

Sweden said Wednesday that a pro-Russian group with links to Russia's security and intelligence services was behind a cyberattack on a heating plant in western Sweden — the government's first public disclosure of the incident. The attack failed, Sweden's minister for civil defense, Carl-Oskar Bohlin, said, offering no further details about its timing.

Trump refuses to apologize to Pope Leo after Iran-war criticism

2026-04-14

President Donald Trump on Monday refused to apologize to Pope Leo XIV, saying the pope opposed Trump’s approach toward Iran and warning against the prospect of a nuclear Iran. Trump also sought to explain away a now-deleted post that depicted him in a Jesus-like role, saying he thought it showed him “as a doctor.”

Trump administration agrees to resume Pride flag at Stonewall

2026-04-14

The Trump administration said it will resume flying a rainbow Pride flag on a federal flagpole at New York’s Stonewall National Monument, reversing its February decision to remove the banner. The government agreed to the change in court papers as it settled a lawsuit that had sought to block the Feb. 9 removal, and a judge approved the deal.

White House economists estimate 10 million-home US housing shortage

2026-04-14

The White House’s Economic Report of the President says the United States faces a shortage of about 10 million houses, and it argues regulatory changes could spur construction to help stabilize home prices and support faster economic growth. The analysis, which is part of the report released Monday, also describes housing as a potential political message ahead of an expected midterm season for Republicans.

House approves aviation safety bill tied to 2025 Washington midair collision

2026-04-14

The House on Tuesday approved the Alert Act, a bill aimed at strengthening aviation safety requirements after a deadly midair collision near Washington last year involving an American Airlines jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter. The measure, backed by industry groups and pushed by Rep. Sam Graves and Rep. Rick Larsen, now heads to the Senate as key senators and families of the 67 victims say it still needs changes.

New Jersey voters head to polls in 11th District special election

2026-04-14

Residents of New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District will vote Thursday in a special election to fill the House seat vacated by Democratic Gov. Mikie Sherrill, with Democrat Analilia Mejia and Republican Joe Hathaway on the ballot. Polls close at 8 p.m. ET, and the Associated Press said it will not call the race until it determines there is no scenario in which trailing candidates can close the gap.

Melania Trump seeks faster support for youth aging out of foster care

2026-04-14

First lady Melania Trump met with House Ways and Means Committee members on Wednesday to urge Congress to pass bills updating foster care support for young people aging out of the system. Speaking to lawmakers at Capitol Hill, she called expanded services and resources “a moral imperative.”

Democrats seek to overturn Trump rule changing Public Service Loan Forgiveness

2026-04-14

Democrats in Congress on Tuesday introduced measures to overturn changes the Trump administration made to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, saying the new policy is political and could cut off some borrowers from promised relief. The rule is set to take effect in July, according to the Associated Press.

Trump urges extending foreign surveillance program as Congress weighs changes

2026-04-14

Congress is set to consider renewing Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, a program that allows U.S. spy agencies to collect and analyze communications of foreigners overseas and that can also incidentally capture Americans’ communications. President Donald Trump said the program is “extremely important” and urged lawmakers to extend it. Critics want changes such as warrants before authorities can access Americans’ data and limits on how the government uses internet data brokers as the current authorization expires Monday.

Many US Catholics dismayed by Trump’s verbal attack on Pope Leo

2026-04-14

U.S. Catholic voters backed Donald Trump in 2024, but many across the Catholic political spectrum reacted with dismay after Trump launched a broad verbal assault on Pope Leo XIV, the first pope leading the U.S. Catholic Church. Critics included leaders of the U.S. bishops’ conference and prominent conservative Catholics, while Trump defended himself and said no apology was needed.

Trump refuses to apologize to Pope Leon XIV amid Iran war tensions

2026-04-14

In a rushed White House Q&A on April 13, President Donald Trump said he would not apologize to Pope Leon XIV after criticizing the pope for speaking out against the U.S. war with Iran. Trump also addressed a now-deleted social media post that showed him in a religious-style scene, saying he thought the image was him as a doctor.

Orbán election defeat sparks scrutiny of Trump allies and policy

2026-04-14

Hungary’s ruling party election loss for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán reverberated in the United States, where President Donald Trump and many conservatives had backed the Hungarian leader’s long rule. Republicans and Democrats alike used the result to argue about how democratic systems respond when incumbents tilt institutions.

Rep. Eric Swalwell to resign after sexual misconduct allegations

2026-04-14

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell of California said Monday that he will resign from Congress after sexual assault and misconduct allegations that prompted calls from lawmakers across the political spectrum for him to step down. The House Ethics Committee said it has begun investigating whether Swalwell engaged in sexual misconduct toward an employee working under his supervision. Swalwell, who has denied the allegations, said he will resign to avoid distracting his constituents from his work.

Dozens arrested in NYC protest urging Schumer and Gillibrand to block bombs

2026-04-14

Nearly 100 protesters were arrested Monday in New York calling on Senate Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand to block the sale of thousands of U.S. bombs to Israel, according to the antiwar group Jewish Voice for Peace. Demonstrators briefly tried to stage a sit-in at the Manhattan offices of the two lawmakers before being kept out, then stopped traffic outside and were loaded onto three buses.

Brazil ex-intelligence chief Alexandre Ramagem arrested by ICE, senator says

2026-04-14

SAO PAULO — A Brazilian senator said on Monday that former intelligence agency chief Alexandre Ramagem was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Sen. Jorge Seif said he had told the U.S. embassy in Brasilia that Ramagem should not remain in custody because he is being persecuted in Brazil.

Rep. Tony Gonzales says he will retire after bipartisan expulsion calls

2026-04-14

Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas said Monday that he will retire from Congress after bipartisan calls to expel him. Gonzales’ retirement announcement came days after revelations that he admitted to an affair with a staff member who later died by suicide, and shortly after Democrats renewed attention amid allegations involving Rep. Eric Swalwell.

Postal workers union to promote mail voting in national TV ads

2026-04-14

The American Postal Workers Union plans to launch a national TV ad campaign promoting voting by mail, stepping into a debate that has been fueled by President Donald Trump’s attacks on mail ballots. The 30-second spot, sponsored by the 200,000-member union, begins airing this week in Ohio and then expands to other states. The campaign comes as Trump signed an executive order aimed at creating a nationwide list of verified eligible voters and restricting postal workers from sending absentee ballots to those not on each state’s approved list.

Trump tips DoorDash driver $100 for Oval Office McDonald’s delivery

2026-04-14

President Donald Trump said he tipped a DoorDash driver $100 after the driver delivered McDonald’s to the Oval Office on Monday, part of an effort by the White House to highlight a federal tax break for tips ahead of Tax Day. Trump made the moment public as media cameras rolled and invited the driver, Sharon Simmons, to stand beside him for questions.

White House economists estimate U.S. housing shortage of 10 million homes

2026-04-14

The White House’s Council of Economic Advisers estimates the United States has a shortage of 10 million homes, according to a report in the Economic Report of the President released Monday. The analysis says regulatory cuts could help boost construction, stabilize home prices and expand home ownership. It also lays out a political messaging challenge for President Donald Trump as Republicans prepare for a difficult midterm season.

Swalwell exit leaves California governor’s race in disarray

2026-04-14

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell abruptly suspended his campaign for California governor and said he planned to resign from Congress, throwing rival Democrats and Republicans into a scramble over who can consolidate his supporters. His withdrawal followed sexual-assault allegations reported by the San Francisco Chronicle and later by CNN.

Judge bars Arizona from enforcing gambling laws against Kalshi

2026-04-14

A federal judge temporarily barred Arizona from enforcing its gambling laws against prediction market operator Kalshi and paused an Arizona criminal wagering case against the company. The order calls off a Monday arraignment and comes in a lawsuit filed by the Trump administration.

Lululemon probed by Texas AG over PFAS in athletic wear

2026-04-14

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced a probe into Lululemon over whether the company’s athletic clothing contains PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals.” Paxton said the inquiry will examine Lululemon’s “restricted substances” list, testing protocols and supply-network practices. Lululemon said it stopped using PFAS in early 2024 and is cooperating with the investigation.

Texas Tech orders phaseout of courses centered on sexual orientation

2026-04-14

Texas Tech University System chancellor Brandon Creighton ordered campuses to phase out academic programs “centered on” sexual orientation and gender identity, and to freeze admissions and bar students from declaring majors in the affected programs. The memo also directs that graduate theses and dissertations may center on those topics only as a temporary exception for currently enrolled students.

Some residents work to reverse local solar project restrictions

2026-04-14

A federal policy shift is pushing utility-scale solar deadlines forward, but some counties still restrict projects on farmland. In Canfield, Ohio, Wayne Greier said local officials blocked a proposal for a solar farm on his acreage in 2023, costing him a projected $540,000 in annual lease payments.

Wyoming’s Rocky Mountain Power says no new wind or solar planned through 2045

2026-04-14

Rocky Mountain Power, the state’s largest utility, has updated its long-range planning to flatline future wind and solar additions across multiple states, including Wyoming, from 2027 through 2045. The company said the shift is driven by a July 4, 2025 repeal of major parts of the Inflation Reduction Act, which it said phases out tax benefits for renewables. A Sierra Club organizer criticized the plan, saying it creates uncertainty for developers even as utilities can revise their forecasts.

How influencers’ prep work and planning make Coachella content look easy

2026-04-14

Coachella is now a content machine as creators map outfits, partnerships and filming schedules weeks ahead, turning the festival into streams of short-form and shopping-linked videos. For content creators like Sam Mintesnot, getting a ticket—often with help from brands—can hinge on rapid outreach just before the two-weekend festival in Indio, California. YouTube’s relationship with Coachella also highlights how creator audiences and brand partners intersect during the sprawling event.

Man shot by ICE in California arrested by FBI, attorney says

2026-04-14

A man shot by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents during an enforcement stop in central California last week has been arrested by the FBI after being discharged from a hospital, his attorney said Monday. Attorney Patrick Kolasinski said federal officials have not told him what charges Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez might face.

Paul Dans ends GOP primary challenge to Lindsey Graham in South Carolina

2026-04-14

Paul Dans, a chief architect of Project 2025, ended his Republican primary challenge to Sen. Lindsey Graham in South Carolina, withdrawing on the last day to remove his name from the June 9 ballot. The decision sets up a GOP contest that tests support for President Donald Trump and his MAGA movement in a state where Graham has long been a fixture.

Trump family business deals raise fresh conflict-of-interest questions

2026-04-14

The Associated Press reports that Donald Trump’s family business has expanded abroad and into cryptocurrency ventures during his second term, raising conflict-of-interest questions about whether policy decisions could benefit the Trump Organization and its investors. The AP describes deals involving government-linked entities in Qatar, Vietnam and Saudi Arabia, as well as sales and investments tied to World Liberty Financial, Binance and other crypto projects.

Senegal court issues first conviction under new anti-homosexuality law

2026-04-14

A Senegal court in Pikine-Guédiawaye on Friday sentenced a 24-year-old laborer to six years in prison and fined him 2 million CFA ($3,300) under a new law that increases penalties for homosexual acts. The court convicted him of “acts against nature and public indecency,” after he was arrested earlier this month.

Trump’s “never loses” message and Iran war win framing, AP analysis

2026-04-13

In the Iran war, Donald Trump has repeatedly declared victory and rejected the idea that the conflict’s outcome has gone against the United States, an approach also described in interviews and commentary by former aides, advisers and authors. With a ceasefire in place, the president says U.S. goals were accomplished while describing changing conditions around Iran’s leadership and the Strait of Hormuz, according to AP. The analysis also traces the “win” framing to Trump’s earlier political and business years, including references to his advisers and to lawyer Roy Cohn’s influence.

China says it will resume some ties with Taiwan after KMT leader visit

2026-04-13

China said Sunday it would resume some ties it had suspended with Taiwan, including direct flights and imports of Taiwanese aquaculture products, following a visit by Cheng Li-wun, the Beijing-friendly opposition leader of the self-ruled island. China’s Taiwan Work Office said it would explore a long-term communication mechanism with Taiwan’s Kuomingtang Party and facilitate previously banned aquaculture imports. Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council said the announced steps were “political transactions” that circumvented Taiwan’s government.

House approves aviation safety bill after deadly 2025 DC midair crash

2026-04-13

The U.S. House on April 14 approved the Alert Act, a bill aimed at reducing the risk of midair collisions after a jet and an Army helicopter crashed near Washington, leaving 67 people dead. The measure would require aircraft flying around busy airports to have locator and next-generation collision-avoidance systems, and it drew immediate calls from families and some lawmakers for stronger safeguards as it moves to the Senate.

Irish government to offer new fuel tax cuts to help quell protests

2026-04-13

Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin said Sunday that Ireland will offer new fuel tax cuts in a bid to end blockades and protests over soaring pump prices that have roiled supply of fuel to stations across the country. Martin said the package, which totals 505 million euros ($592 million) and requires parliamentary approval, would build on a 250 million euro tax break approved nearly three weeks earlier.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani marks 100 days with grocery, trash and bus plans

2026-04-13

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani marked 100 days in office with a rally that highlighted early accomplishments and outlined new goals focused on affordability for working people. Mamdani said he wants city-run grocery stores to open starting next year and expand a program to replace plastic trash bags with covered bins.

South Africa’s Democratic Alliance elects Geordin Hill-Lewis as leader

2026-04-13

Johannesburg Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis was elected leader of South Africa’s Democratic Alliance on Sunday, the party said. He defended the party’s coalition with the African National Congress and said the goal is to win the next election outright. His election comes as local polls are expected later this year.

Orbán ousted after 16 years as Hungary elects pro-European Magyar

2026-04-13

Hungarian voters ousted Prime Minister Viktor Orbán after 16 years in power in a bombshell election, according to AP reporting. Péter Magyar, a former Orbán loyalist turned challenger, pledged to rebuild ties with the European Union and NATO. Orbán conceded defeat and said he would serve in opposition, while European leaders quickly congratulated Magyar.

California Governor Race Shifts After Swalwell's Exit

2026-04-13

Prominent candidates for California governor gathered in Sacramento Tuesday, addressing the changed landscape after U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell suspended his campaign amid sexual assault allegations. The candidates, five Democrats and one Republican, focused on affordability and business friendliness, with only a few directly commenting on Swalwell's departure.

Florida governor candidate Kevin Cichowski arrested on domestic altercation charges

2026-04-13

A man running for Florida governor has been arrested after charges connected to a domestic altercation involving two older people in a Palm Coast home, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office said. Kevin Cichowski, 46, faces multiple counts of aggravated battery as well as charges including tampering with a witness and robbery, according to the sheriff’s office.

Swalwell suspends California governor campaign after sexual assault claims

2026-04-13

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell suspended his campaign for California governor on Sunday after sexual assault allegations published this week by the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN. Swalwell, who has denied the allegations, said the fight over them “is my fight, not a campaign’s.”

Peru votes for ninth president in 10 years amid crime surge

2026-04-13

Peru voted Sunday in a presidential election that will choose the country’s ninth president in a decade, with mandatory voting for Peruvians ages 18 to 70 drawing more than 27 million registered voters, according to election coverage. The contest features 35 candidates amid public anger over violent crime and corruption, and many contenders are proposing tougher security policies as protests over crime continue.

Orbán deja el poder en Hungría tras 16 años en una derrota electoral

2026-04-13

Los húngaros votaron el domingo para sacar del poder al primer ministro Viktor Orbán después de 16 años, en una elección que dio la victoria a Péter Magyar, antiguo aliado de Orbán, con repercusiones potenciales para Europa. Magyar prometió reconstruir las relaciones de Hungría con la Unión Europea y la OTAN, mientras Orbán reconoció la derrota y dijo que la oposición servirá a la nación húngara.

A look at Péter Magyar: former Orbán insider who toppled him

2026-04-13

Hungarian opposition leader Péter Magyar spent years moving comfortably inside the political system built by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, before breaking with that world and emerging as his successor. After Orbán’s 16-year grip ended in Hungary’s election Sunday, Magyar told supporters late Sunday in Budapest that “we liberated Hungary” and “took back our country.”

Few states have copied Trump’s tax breaks for tips and overtime

2026-04-13

The federal tax-filing deadline is Wednesday, when millions of Americans are expected to claim new federal income tax breaks for tips and overtime wages available under a wide-ranging tax law enacted by President Donald Trump. But workers in many states may not get the same deductions on their state returns because states decide whether to match federal changes.

Polls close in Benin as voters choose successor to President Talon

2026-04-13

Polls closed in Benin on Sunday as voters selected a successor to President Patrice Talon, who is stepping down after a decade in power. Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, backed by the ruling coalition, faces Paul Hounkpè, the sole opposition candidate, with results expected within 48 hours, according to election officials.

China’s state media turns to AI animation to mock US over Iran war

2026-04-12

China Central Television released an AI-generated animated short that draws an allegory for the war in Iran and depicts the United States as an attacker in a martial-arts style fight. The clip has spread widely online after the state broadcaster posted it on social media and an X user subtitled and shared it.

Iraq elects Kurdish politician Nizar Amidi as president amid war fallout

2026-04-12

Iraq’s parliament voted Saturday to elect Kurdish politician Nizar Amidi as president, more than two months after the constitutional deadline. The vote comes as the country faces fallout from the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran and wider regional disruption, including attacks affecting U.S. bases and Iraq’s energy infrastructure.

Trump administration admits error in New York health care fraud probe

2026-04-12

The Trump administration acknowledged to the Associated Press that it used incorrect figures in trying to justify a Medicaid fraud probe in New York, a miscalculation that Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services spokesman Chris Krepich said stemmed from a billing-code methodology issue. The error involved claims about how many New Yorkers received personal care services, which Dr. Mehmet Oz cited in a social media video and a letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul announcing the investigation. The CMS investigation remains ongoing, Krepich said, as the agency reviews New York’s response.

Appeals court orders judge to revisit security impacts of Trump ballroom halt

2026-04-12

A federal appeals court ruled Saturday that a judge overseeing a lawsuit challenging President Donald Trump’s planned $400 million White House ballroom must reconsider how halting construction could affect national security. The D.C. Circuit panel said it lacked enough information to determine what parts of the project could be suspended without jeopardizing the safety of the president, his family, or White House staff.

Florida governor candidate Kevin Cichowski arrested on battery charges

2026-04-12

A man running for Florida governor, Kevin Cichowski, was arrested and charged after deputies in Palm Coast responded to reports of a domestic altercation involving two older people, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office said the charges include aggravated battery, tampering with a witness and robbery.

Swalwell’s California governor bid loses key Democratic endorsements over assault claims

2026-04-12

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell denied allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman twice, including when she worked for him, as prominent supporters withdrew their backing and called on him to leave California’s governor race. The accusations were reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, and the Manhattan district attorney’s office said it is investigating an alleged 2024 assault in New York.

Republican fears grow as Democrats win special elections ahead of 2026 midterms

2026-04-12

Republicans are reassessing their standing after Democratic wins in elections in Wisconsin and Georgia this week, with GOP officials and strategists saying the results point to a tougher road ahead for November midterms. In Wisconsin, Democrats expanded their majority in a statewide Supreme Court contest and won a race for mayor’s office in Waukesha, a conservative suburb outside Milwaukee. In Georgia, Republican candidate Clay Fuller won a congressional special election to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene, but by a much smaller margin than Republicans enjoyed in the past.

Peru election offers few plans to tackle illegal mining in Amazon

2026-04-12

Peruvians are set to vote Sunday for a new president and Congress, but illegal mining—driven by high gold prices and linked to deforestation and mercury pollution—has received limited attention in campaign platforms, according to environmental and anti-corruption groups. Experts say the narrow focus reflects a broader failure to confront what they describe as the country’s largest illicit economy, with consequences for Indigenous communities and public health.

More than 200 arrested in London protest backing Palestine Action group

2026-04-12

London police arrested 212 people during a Saturday protest against a ban on Palestine Action, which Britain’s government has labeled a terrorist organization. Metropolitan Police said officers detained protesters aged 27 to 82 after the demonstration in Trafalgar Square organized by Defend Our Juries.

Democrats frame DEI as “American values” at National Action Network gathering

2026-04-12

Democratic politicians and potential presidential candidates at the National Action Network conference in New York argued that diversity, equity and inclusion are “American values,” positioning the policies against President Donald Trump’s administration and Republicans’ anti-DEI agenda. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats “have the high ground” on the issue, while other governors highlighted state-level efforts that they say preserve or expand DEI programs.

British authorities charge alleged boat pilot in deaths of 4 migrants

2026-04-12

LONDON (AP) — British authorities have charged a Sudanese man they allege piloted a boat linked to the deaths of four migrants as they tried to cross the English Channel, the National Crime Agency said. The man, 27-year-old Alnour Mohamed Ali, was charged under a new British immigration law, prosecutors said.

Kim Jong Un backs China’s “multipolar world” in meeting with Wang Yi

2026-04-12

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un voiced support for China’s push for a “multipolar world” and said Pyongyang will fully support Beijing’s efforts tied to its “one-China principle” during talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, state media said. The meeting came as Wang visited North Korea on a two-day trip ahead of broader regional diplomacy involving the United States and China.

Orbán and Magyar make final push for votes ahead of Hungary election

2026-04-12

Hungary’s election rivals Viktor Orbán and Péter Magyar held final campaign rallies on Saturday, setting up a Sunday vote after a turbulent race. Orbán, leader of the Fidesz party, sought to mobilize supporters by warning of “an age of danger” and focusing on external threats, while Magyar, leader of the Tisza party, pitched the election as a break with the “real change of regime.”

Presidente de Yibuti, Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, reelegido para un sexto mandato

2026-04-12

El presidente de Yibuti, Ismaïl Omar Guelleh, fue reelegido el 10 de abril para un sexto mandato después de que los resultados oficiales indicaran que obtuvo el 97,81% de los votos en las elecciones del viernes, informó Associated Press el sábado. Guelleh, de 78 años, gobierna desde 1999 y la votación, según funcionarios electorales, transcurrió de manera pacífica.

Trump’s endorsements and trips test his influence ahead of Hungary vote

2026-04-12

President Donald Trump and top U.S. officials have used social media posts and an election-eve visit to Budapest to back Hungary Prime Minister Viktor Orbán ahead of Hungary’s April 12 election, an effort meant to bolster a far-right ally seeking a fifth term. Vice President JD Vance told reporters that Orbán “is going to win,” as Hungarian voters prepare to choose Orbán and his next parliament. A former U.S. ambassador to Hungary said Trump’s approach has “cheapen[ed] a relationship” by infusing Hungarian policy with what he called a political U.S. rubric.

Trump’s tenuous Iran exit plan is doing little to heal GOP rifts

2026-04-11

President Donald Trump’s search for an off-ramp from the war with Iran is reopening fissures among Republicans, even as a ceasefire that was announced earlier this week faces uncertainty. An internal push for talks and approval mechanisms is colliding with public threats and division over whether to negotiate with Tehran.

Trump’s temporary global tariffs face fresh legal fight in New York trade court

2026-04-11

U.S. Court of International Trade judges heard oral arguments Friday on an effort to overturn temporary global tariffs President Donald Trump imposed after the Supreme Court rejected his earlier emergency-powers approach. The tariffs, set to expire July 24, are being challenged by two dozen states and some businesses, who argue the government is relying on an authority Congress never intended to cover trade deficits.

Argentina Congress approves Milei bill easing glacier protections for mining

2026-04-11

Argentina’s Senate on Thursday approved a bill promoted by libertarian President Javier Milei that eases protections for glaciers, a move environmental groups say they will challenge in court. The legislation passed with 137 votes in favor, 111 against and three abstentions, and is expected to be signed by Milei in the coming days, according to the AP.

Republican fears grow as Democrats win special elections ahead of midterms

2026-04-11

Republicans acknowledged Democratic wins in special elections in Wisconsin and Georgia on Tuesday, with some warning that the results could foreshadow tighter midterm races. Democrats pointed to the victories as evidence of momentum going into November, when control of Congress and state governments is at stake.

Lawmakers seek investigations into well-timed Polymarket bets on Iran ceasefire

2026-04-11

Calls are growing in Congress for investigations into Polymarket after the platform’s users placed large, highly timed bets on a U.S.-Iran ceasefire shortly before President Donald Trump announced it late Tuesday. The Associated Press reported that newly created accounts placed the trades in the minutes before the ceasefire announcement.

USPS to suspend pension contributions and seek stamp price hike

2026-04-11

The U.S. Postal Service said it has told federal budget officials it will temporarily suspend employer contributions to Federal Employees Retirement System annuities to preserve cash amid an “ongoing, severe financial crisis,” while asking regulators to approve higher postage rates. USPS also seeks to raise the price of a First-Class Mail “Forever” stamp from 78 cents to 82 cents.

Eliot Engel, former Foreign Affairs chair, dies at 79

2026-04-11

Former U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel, a New York Democrat who chaired the House Foreign Affairs Committee and helped lead high-profile foreign policy work including Trump’s first impeachment inquiry, has died. He was 79. Engel died Friday at a Bronx hospital of complications from Parkinson’s disease, his family said.

Democrats push Congress to rein in Trump after Iran threat

2026-04-11

The threats from President Donald Trump to “wipe” Iran from the map and warnings that “a whole civilization” could die prompted Democrats to demand stronger limits on his ability to conduct further attacks, according to Associated Press reporting. After Trump later accepted a two-week ceasefire, Democrats pressed Republicans to join them on a proposal requiring congressional approval before additional Iran actions. Senior Democrats also said their offices were flooded with calls and messages from constituents urging Trump be removed.

FAA and Pentagon approve counter-drone lasers for southern border

2026-04-11

The Federal Aviation Administration said Friday that anti-drone lasers used for counter–UAS operations along the U.S. southern border are safe for commercial flights, after a review prompted airport airspace closures in Texas earlier this year. The FAA said it and the Defense Department signed an agreement outlining safety precautions for travelers, following a demonstration at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. Lawmakers who questioned the Feb. uses said they still need detailed answers and a congressional briefing.

Colorado appeals court rules Boulder can’t charge bodycam fees in misconduct cases

2026-04-11

The Colorado Court of Appeals ruled that the city of Boulder cannot charge journalists fees for body camera footage tied to a complaint of officer misconduct. The decision came in a lawsuit from Yellow Scene Magazine after Boulder sought more than $8,000 for footage connected to a December 2023 shooting in which officers killed Jeanette Alatorre.

Pro-Iran memes use AI to troll Trump and shape Iran-war narrative

2026-04-11

Pro-Iran groups have used artificial intelligence to create English-language internet memes aimed at influencing how the Iran war is discussed, according to analysts. The content has portrayed U.S. President Donald Trump in derisive ways and has spread across social platforms, with some analysts saying the sophistication points to connections to Iranian government offices.

Trump administration admits error in New York Medicaid fraud probe

2026-04-11

President Donald Trump’s administration acknowledged this week that it used incorrect figures when it helped justify a fraud probe into New York’s Medicaid program, the Associated Press reported. The dispute centered on claims by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz that the state last year provided personal care services to about 5 million people. CMS later said the correct figure was about 450,000.

EPA proposes weakening rules for toxic coal ash groundwater protections

2026-04-11

The Trump administration has proposed weakening federal rules for handling coal-plant ash that can contain hazardous heavy metals and contaminate groundwater, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The proposal would ease monitoring near some ash sites and roll back requirements aimed at cleaning up entire coal properties, while also making it easier to reuse coal ash. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the changes reflect the agency’s commitment to “restoring American energy dominance” and “accommodating unique circumstances” at some facilities, while environmental and other groups warned the rule could increase the risk to water and human health.

Trump administration resets review clock, delaying Minnesota nursing-home wage floor

2026-04-11

The Trump administration temporarily blocked Minnesota’s wage floor for nursing home workers, delaying minimum pay requirements that were set to take effect Jan. 1. At a board meeting Thursday, Nursing Home Workforce Standards Board executive director Leah Solo said U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services restarted a 90-day review after requesting additional information.

Plaintiffs settle with Trump administration over library funding cuts

2026-04-11

Plaintiffs who sued to stop the Trump administration from cutting funding for an agency that supports U.S. libraries said Thursday they reached a settlement with the Justice Department. The American Library Association and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees said the deal would allow the Institute of Museum and Library Services to keep awarding grants and operating programs.

White House updates vaccine panel rules to reflect Kennedy skepticism

2026-04-11

The Trump administration updated the charter for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s vaccine advisory committee, a move critics said could expand the influence of anti-vaccine activists. The changes, published Thursday, followed a legal setback that halted meetings of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, or ACIP, at least temporarily.

US communities push back on plans to convert warehouses into detention centers

2026-04-11

Communities across the United States have pushed back against plans to convert warehouses into immigration detention centers, as the Department of Homeland Security reviews contracts signed under the agency’s predecessor. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin is reviewing a plan to transform warehouses across the country to house tens of thousands of immigrants, the Associated Press reported. In several states, local officials said they were not notified in advance, and in others state or local authorities moved to block or challenge deals.

DOJ loses Massachusetts bid for detailed voter roll data in dismissal

2026-04-11

A federal judge in Massachusetts dismissed a Justice Department lawsuit seeking the state’s detailed voter registration records, a new setback for the Trump administration’s efforts to obtain sensitive data on voters. U.S. District Judge Leo Sorokin said the government failed to make the factual showing required by federal law for such demands.

As Trump boosts coal, opponents warn of higher costs and more pollution

2026-04-11

Before and during his second term, President Donald Trump has pushed to keep coal plants operating, using emergency authorities and other government powers to delay retirements that utilities had planned under Biden-era climate rules, according to an Associated Press review of government data and interviews with experts. Opponents say the approach could raise electricity prices, worsen air pollution and slow progress on cutting greenhouse-gas emissions.

Trump unveils plans for 250-foot winged arch in Washington

2026-04-11

President Donald Trump unveiled plans for a new triumphal arch in Washington that would rise 250 feet and feature a winged figure holding a torch, along with golden eagles and four lions. The design, released by the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, would place the arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery, with the Latin mottos “One Nation Under God” and “Liberty and Justice for All” inscribed in gold.

Pope Leo XIV’s Africa trip to emphasize peace, migration and reform

2026-04-11

Pope Leo XIV will begin a first papal visit to Algeria on Monday as part of a two-day stop before traveling to Angola, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. The Vatican said the trip will focus on migration, the exploitation of natural and human resources, corruption, and the role of leaders in countries where some presidents have remained in power for decades.

Immigration board denies Mahmoud Khalil’s appeal as federal case continues

2026-04-11

An immigration appeals board has denied Mahmoud Khalil’s bid to dismiss his deportation case, a ruling his lawyers said brings him closer to re-arrest and possible expulsion. The Board of Immigration Appeals issued the final order of removal on Thursday, according to Khalil’s attorneys, in a case that began after a federal crackdown on noncitizens who criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza.

Parents sue U.S. after 8-year-old dies in CBP custody in Texas

2026-04-11

A Honduran family sued the U.S. government after an 8-year-old girl with serious medical conditions died while in Customs and Border Protection custody in Texas in 2023, according to court filings filed Friday. The suit says federal officials failed to provide proper medical care during her eight days in custody, including at a CBP facility in Donna before she was later held in Harlingen.

Trump shares video of Florida killing, pointing to deportation agenda

2026-04-11

President Donald Trump shared on Truth Social a video portraying a deadly attack in Florida that authorities allege involved a Haitian immigrant, using it to support his administration’s deportation agenda, the Associated Press reported. Rolbert Joachin, 40, was arrested and charged after a woman was killed at a gas station in Fort Myers on April 2, according to court and law-enforcement records. Critics said Trump’s post demonizes Haitian immigrants and broader immigration protections.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser unveils last $21.2B budget with cuts

2026-04-11

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser on Friday unveiled what she called her last budget, proposing $21.2 billion in gross operating spending for the District of Columbia as she prepares to step down later this year. The plan prioritizes education and health care spending, including Medicaid, while proposing cuts to several areas such as funding set aside for future collective bargaining agreements and non-union pay increases.

Trinidad prime minister demands CARICOM secretary-general exit after Aug term

2026-04-11

Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has escalated a feud with Caribbean neighbors over U.S. policy toward drug trafficking and Venezuela, demanding CARICOM Secretary-General Carla Barnett leave after her term ends in August. The dispute, tied to the bloc’s responses to U.S. military action in the South Caribbean, boiled over into a verbal conflict late Friday, prompting an emergency meeting.

Swalwell denies sexual assault allegations as allies pull support

2026-04-11

Prominent Democrats and labor unions withdrew endorsements for Rep. Eric Swalwell’s California governor bid after he denied multiple sexual-assault allegations, according to statements issued over the weekend. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other party figures urged that the matter be investigated and handled outside the gubernatorial campaign, as the race heads toward mail ballots for the June 2 election.

Belarus detains 52 at ZROBIM Architects in biggest raid this year

2026-04-11

Belarusian authorities detained 52 people at the Minsk offices of ZROBIM Architects in the country’s largest single raid this year, according to human rights monitors. The arrests followed the firm’s founder, Andrei Makouski, posting online that authorities demanded the private company hire a full-time “ideologist” to monitor staff. The Associated Press reported the case as part of what activists described as a new escalation of repression under President Alexander Lukashenko.

Democrats fight back as outside spending scrambles their primaries

2026-04-11

Democrats are struggling as outside groups flooded the party’s first round of midterm primaries with campaign cash, AP reported April 10. Democratic officials and lawmakers said the surge has left some candidates marginalized and has inflamed intraparty disputes over how Democrats should respond.

Kamala Harris says she’s “thinking about” a 2028 presidential run

2026-04-11

In an interview with Rev. Al Sharpton at the National Action Network’s annual convention, former Vice President Kamala Harris said she was “actively considering” another bid for president in 2028. Harris told Sharpton, “I might. I am thinking about it,” and later said, “I’m thinking about it” three times as she explained her deliberations.

Longtime AP reporter and editor Bill Mann dies at 83

2026-04-11

Bill Mann, a reporter and editor who spent nearly 50 years at The Associated Press, died Thursday in Reston, Va., his family said. He was 83. Mann covered assignments including the Philippines, Cairo, India, Scandinavia and Washington, D.C.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s celebrity approach marks 100 days in office

2026-04-11

Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Friday marked his first 100 days in office in New York City, blending day-to-day governance with celebrity-style attention that has drawn both supporters and critics. The Associated Press reports that crowds have shown up to his news conferences, he has used viral content and high-profile guests to promote city programs, and he has begun new public-health moves tied to jail detainees.

Nevada police contract could track phone locations without warrants

2026-04-11

Nevada has signed a deal with a company called Fog Data Science that may let investigators track cellphone location data without obtaining a warrant, according to privacy experts and legal advocates. The Nevada Department of Public Safety adopted the system in January through a state contract, and the agreement allows more than 250 queries per month. Civil liberties advocates say the arrangement could circumvent the warrant process required for detailed location information under the U.S. Constitution.

Democrats weigh removing Trump after Iran threat and seize war-power push

2026-04-10

Democrats in Congress have escalated their calls to remove President Donald Trump from office after he threatened to wipe out Iran, with lawmakers saying they want tighter legal limits on any further attacks even as a near-term impeachment effort remains difficult. The episode followed Trump’s later agreement to a two-week ceasefire with Iran, but Democrats said his rhetoric and the risk it posed should be met with stronger accountability.

Trump’s temporary global tariffs face fresh legal fight in New York

2026-04-10

President Donald Trump’s temporary global tariffs are back in court after the Supreme Court struck down his earlier attempt to impose broader tariffs using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, and the Court of International Trade heard oral arguments on Friday. The dispute centers on whether the Trade Act of 1974 allows the president to use temporary, nationwide tariffs to address “trade deficits” through a provision aimed at “fundamental international payments problems.” The tariffs are set to expire July 24.

Republican fears grow as Democrats notch special election wins

2026-04-10

Republicans assessed Tuesday’s special-election results in Georgia and Wisconsin with a mix of concern and insistence that the contests offer limited guidance for November midterms. U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, a Republican gubernatorial candidate in Wisconsin, said, “We got our butts kicked,” after Democratic wins that expanded its advantage on the state Supreme Court and won the mayor’s office in Waukesha. In Georgia, the Republican party praised a victory that was narrower than the margin Marjorie Taylor Greene previously won, with some Democrats calling it a warning sign ahead of more competitive races.

Trump’s Iran war widens rift with Europeans once seen as MAGA allies

2026-04-10

President Donald Trump’s Iran war policy has triggered backlash among some European far-right and conservative leaders who had previously cultivated ties with his administration, an Associated Press report said. The rift intensified as Vice President JD Vance visited Hungary for Prime Minister Viktor Orbán ahead of a vote this weekend, while European nationalists criticized the war’s goals and rhetoric.

Trump budget targets federal funding for tribal colleges for 2nd year

2026-04-10

President Donald Trump’s fiscal 2027 budget proposal calls for cutting billions from programs tied to federal trust and treaty responsibilities to tribal nations, including eliminating federal support for the Institute for American Indian Arts. The proposal also would cut funding for tribal colleges and two schools operated by the Bureau of Indian Education, positions that tribal leaders and lawmakers say could threaten closures.

NATO’s Mark Rutte dodges question on Trump leaving over Iran war

2026-04-10

BRUSSELS — NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte on Thursday declined to say whether President Donald Trump has repeated a threat to quit the military alliance, after discussions in Brussels amid Trump criticism over U.S. support for the war on Iran. Rutte said Trump was disappointed some allies moved too slowly to help with the conflict, and he pointed to the importance of keeping U.S. engagement in NATO.

Massachusetts judge blocks Trump move to end TPS for Ethiopians

2026-04-10

A federal judge in Massachusetts blocked the Trump administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status for more than 5,000 Ethiopians, saying it was done “without regard for the process delineated by Congress.” The decision, issued Wednesday by U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy, keeps the protected status in place while legal challenges to the administration’s TPS terminations continue.

Brazil’s Supreme Court delays ruling on who leads Rio de Janeiro

2026-04-10

Brazil’s Supreme Court on Thursday postponed a decision on how Rio de Janeiro state chooses a new governor, extending a three-week political standstill after Cláudio Castro resigned March 23. The case hinges on whether Castro’s successor until January is selected in an early election or by lawmakers in Rio’s state legislature, a question Justice Flávio Dino asked the court to revisit.

Pope Leo holds U.S. citizenship; legal experts say it is hard to strip

2026-04-10

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost in Chicago, is an American citizen who also leads the Catholic Church and Vatican City as a foreign head of state. Legal experts said the U.S. government could “actively review” the citizenship status of Americans who serve in those roles, but federal law and the practical facts of renunciation make termination unlikely.

Sotomayor says emergency docket relief for Trump hinges on irreparable harm

2026-04-10

Justice Sonia Sotomayor said the Supreme Court has granted the Trump administration an increasing number of emergency docket appeals in part because the conservative justices view blocking executive actions as legally unfixable harm. Speaking Thursday at the University of Alabama School of Law, Sotomayor said the court’s emergency docket approach has shifted the “paradigm” for whether justices grant quick relief.

Tax refunds rise 24% as Trump administration cites new deductions

2026-04-10

Tax refunds this season are up 24% compared with the four-year average of refunds before President Donald Trump took office, the Trump administration said Thursday, citing tax legislation signed into law last year. The Internal Revenue Service reported that the current average refund is $3,521, an 11% increase from last tax year’s $3,170.

Judge says Pentagon violated order restoring reporters’ access

2026-04-10

A federal judge ruled Thursday that the Pentagon is violating an order meant to restore access for reporters, siding again with The New York Times. U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s team tried to evade his March 20 ruling by adopting new credential rules that require reporters to be escorted and could bar them from the building. The Defense Department said it complied with court orders and plans to appeal.

UW system regents cite AI disputes and governance issues in firing President Jay Rothman

2026-04-10

The University of Wisconsin System’s Board of Regents voted unanimously on April 9, 2026 to dismiss President Jay Rothman, saying his slow response to artificial‑intelligence challenges and reluctance to engage legislators had eroded confidence. Regents testified that Rothman also limited board members’ public interactions and used confidentiality protections to shape a one‑sided narrative. Rothman told the Associated Press he was “blindsided” by the decision, while two regents said he was aware of the concerns.

Louisiana Republicans race to scrap exonerated Calvin Duncan’s clerk job

2026-04-10

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry and Republicans in the state Legislature are moving to eliminate the elected job of Orleans Parish clerk of criminal court held by exonerated man Calvin Duncan, whose swearing-in was scheduled for May 4. Duncan won the clerk’s office last November after pledging to reform the justice system. Duncan told The Associated Press he believes officials are retaliating against him, while Republicans say the changes are aimed at streamlining the courts.

New deal brings journalists and their followers closer together

2026-04-10

Noosphere has signed a multiyear licensing agreement with Sky News to use its app technology that lets reporters interact directly with the people who follow their stories. The move, announced Friday, is designed to shift journalism from one-way consumption to more two-way conversations, with Sky News planning to start experimenting with it for its defense and security experts.

US communities push back on plans for immigration detention centers

2026-04-10

Communities across the U.S. are pushing back against plans to convert warehouses into immigration detention centers, a move the Department of Homeland Security says it is reviewing. The backlash follows reports that the government spent $1.074 billion on 11 warehouses, most of them after ICE bought the properties without local input. In recent days, DHS paused additional purchases and began scrutiny of contracts signed under former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Dingell watches El-Sayed rally, seeing frustration and hope among young voters

2026-04-10

Democratic Rep. Debbie Dingell visited Abdul El-Sayed’s campaign event in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to gauge how young voters are showing up ahead of the midterm elections. In a packed University of Michigan lecture hall, many attendees described political frustration with both major parties but said they still want candidates who can generate new energy. Several pointed to a generational mood shaped by Donald Trump’s time in office and by a desire to stop “scraping by” and get “tangible change.”

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers signs online sports betting bill run by tribes

2026-04-10

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers signed a bill Thursday that legalizes online sports betting in the state, making Wisconsin the 33rd U.S. state to allow the practice, the Associated Press reported. Evers said the law’s implementation would require negotiations with the state’s 11 federally recognized tribes that would operate the bets.

Campaigns spend more on security as threats of political violence grow

2026-04-10

Campaigns for congressional and presidential races have increased their spending on candidate security sharply over the past decade as threats against public officials have escalated, according to a report released Thursday. The report estimates that federal political committees spent more than $40 million on expenses labeled as security during the 2023-24 election cycle.

Cuba’s Díaz-Canel tells NBC News he will not step down

2026-04-10

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel told NBC News that he will not step down, rejecting a question from journalist Kristen Welker on whether he would leave office if it meant “saving Cuba.” The comments were made in an interview with NBC News’ “Meet the Press,” a portion of which aired Thursday and is scheduled to run in full on Sunday.

Conservative activists sue to challenge Native Hawaiian health scholarship

2026-04-10

A Utah-based advocacy group, Do No Harm, filed a federal lawsuit challenging a Native Hawaiian Health Scholarship Program administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The group argues the program is unconstitutional because it discriminates based on an applicant’s race and ethnicity, according to the complaint filed last week.

Greece to ban social media for kids 15 and under, Mitsotakis says

2026-04-10

Greece plans a ban on social media for children age 15 and under, the government said, as Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis urged European Union leaders to adopt an EU-wide framework. The proposal would require platforms to reverify users’ ages and exclude those who are 15 or younger, with penalties for noncompliance.

Iranian American soccer fans weigh World Cup pride against protest

2026-04-10

Iranian American soccer fans are torn between pride and protest as Iran’s national team prepares for the World Cup, with its campaign opening June 15 near Los Angeles against New Zealand. Some fans say Iran’s government repression and athletes’ silence make it difficult to watch, while others plan to attend to show support for Iran and the sport—sometimes with signs criticizing the regime.

NYC council member and Hochul aide rally against federal bribery probe

2026-04-10

Weeks after federal agents searched their homes, New York City Council member Farah Louis and her sister Debbie Louis, an aide to Gov. Kathy Hochul, appeared Thursday at a rally organized by supporters who said the probe is baseless. The sisters have declined to publicly respond to a federal investigation that is examining whether they accepted bribes to steer city funds to a Brooklyn shelter provider.

Protesters derail Maryland plans for ICE warehouse detention facility

2026-04-10

Horns blared and protesters shouted “Stop ICE!” outside a Washington County, Maryland meeting where county officials discussed a paused plan to convert a large warehouse into an immigration detention facility. The Department of Homeland Security has paused the effort and is reviewing contracts signed by its predecessor, according to a recent court filing in the state’s lawsuit.

UW regents defend unanimous firing of President Jay Rothman

2026-04-09

Leaders on the University of Wisconsin board of regents said Thursday they rejected fired system president Jay Rothman’s claim that he was “blindsided” by their decision to oust him, describing disputes over artificial intelligence and other issues as key factors. The regents voted unanimously with no public discussion after a closed-door meeting that followed Rothman’s Tuesday dismissal. Rothman, meanwhile, told The Associated Press that he was kept in the dark about the reasons for his firing.

Trump renews NATO criticism after meeting with Mark Rutte

2026-04-09

President Donald Trump renewed his criticism of NATO after a closed-door meeting with the alliance’s secretary-general, Mark Rutte, in Washington. Trump said NATO “WASN’T THERE WHEN WE NEEDED THEM” and linked his complaint to the Iran war and efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

California Supreme Court halts sheriff’s election fraud probe and ballot review

2026-04-09

The California Supreme Court has ordered Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco to pause his investigation into election fraud allegations involving ballots from a November 2025 special election while the court reviews the legal challenge to the probe. The order came after state Attorney General Rob Bonta asked the justices to intervene, saying the sheriff lacked authority over election materials.

Acting Venezuela President Delcy Rodríguez promises May wage increase

2026-04-09

Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodríguez asked public and private sector workers in a televised address for patience as her government works to improve the economy. She promised a wage increase on May 1, while warning it would be designed to avoid an inflation surge like the one after the last minimum wage increase.

White House clarifies Cuba comment after Díaz-Canel rejects any U.S. aggression

2026-04-09

The White House on Wednesday played down remarks that Cuba could be “the next” target of U.S. attack, saying the island is not facing a justification for a military aggression. At the same time, President Miguel Díaz-Canel said in an interview published by Cuba’s state-linked outlet Granma that Cuba poses no threat to the United States and that any defense doctrine is defensive.

Mother hopes freed U.S. reporter Shelly Kittleson will return home

2026-04-09

U.S. State Department and officials said freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson, kidnapped in Baghdad in late March, has been released, and her mother in Wisconsin said she hopes her daughter will return home. Barb Kittleson said she emailed her daughter from a Mount Horeb library and that she has not seen Shelly since 2002.

UN says over 1,000 humanitarian workers killed worldwide in past 3 years

2026-04-09

More than 1,000 humanitarian workers have been killed globally in the past three years, nearly tripling the death toll from the previous three-year period, the United Nations said April 8. UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher told the UN Security Council that the surge reflects the “collapse of protection” amid ongoing wars and restrictions on aid.

Indigenous leader Raoni backs Lula despite opposing Amazon railway

2026-04-09

Raoni Metuktire, the Amazon’s internationally known indigenous leader, said on Wednesday he still supports President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and plans to campaign for Lula’s reelection in October, despite protesting government-backed projects. He spoke at the Free Land encampment in Brasilia, Brazil’s largest indigenous mobilization, where about 7,000 people from 200 groups have camped for a week.

Bondi will not testify at House deposition in Epstein files probe

2026-04-09

The U.S. Department of Justice indicated that former Attorney General Pam Bondi will not appear for a House deposition scheduled next week as part of a congressional investigation into how the government handled the Jeffrey Epstein case files. A House Oversight Committee spokeswoman said the panel will contact Bondi’s personal counsel about scheduling a next step after Bondi was ousted from the Justice Department leadership role.

Trump administration admits error in New York Medicaid fraud probe

2026-04-09

President Donald Trump’s administration acknowledged this week that it used incorrect figures in support of a fraud probe into New York’s Medicaid program. The error centered on how many Medicaid enrollees received personal care services, a figure that had been cited by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz in a social media video and in a letter to Gov. Kathy Hochul.

Fight over pills pits abortion opponents against Trump administration

2026-04-09

U.S. abortion opponents are pressing President Donald Trump’s Food and Drug Administration to move faster on restrictions for mifepristone, a drug they say is undermining state abortion bans. A judge in a lawsuit brought by Louisiana’s attorney general opened the door to limiting telehealth prescriptions while declining to block them immediately. The dispute has also highlighted tensions within the broader strategy to counter the availability of medication abortion through online providers.

Minnesota school districts, teachers union seek injunction on school enforcement

2026-04-09

Two Minnesota school districts and the state’s main teachers union asked a federal judge Wednesday to block a Trump administration policy change that gave immigration authorities more flexibility to conduct enforcement actions in and near schools. Attorneys for the Fridley and Duluth districts and the Education Minnesota union said the Department of Homeland Security rescinded nationwide “sensitive locations” limits last year, prompting disruptions during a period that included “Operation Metro Surge.” The request asks U.S. District Judge Laura Provinzino for a stay or preliminary injunction while the case proceeds.

Michigan SOAR incentive reports show new hiring, but critics press accountability

2026-04-09

Michigan’s Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve (SOAR) business incentive program has generated “new” hiring, with state reports showing 1,846 jobs created in 2025 among 10 companies receiving about $1.74 billion in large taxpayer subsidies. The figures come as lawmakers, including Republicans and some Democrats, voted to remove SOAR funding from the 2026-27 budget and continued to question whether billions in incentives deliver enough return.

Republican fears grow as Democrats notch special election wins

2026-04-09

Republicans in Wisconsin and Georgia sought to interpret election results this week as Democrats widened their gains ahead of the November midterms, with some party figures conceding the party’s setbacks. In Wisconsin, Democrats scored a 20-percentage-point blowout in a Supreme Court race and won a Waukesha mayoral contest. In Georgia, a Republican candidate to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene in Congress won, but by a smaller margin than past GOP strength in the district.

Democrats at Al Sharpton conference warn of Trump voting-rights threat

2026-04-09

New York hosted Democratic presidential hopefuls at the National Action Network’s annual convention, where speakers warned that President Donald Trump is undermining Americans’ right to vote in the 2026 midterms. During the Thursday gathering led by Rev. Al Sharpton, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and others argued that Trump’s election-related executive actions could affect who can vote and how. Several candidates framed the fight over voting rights as already shaping the early 2028 presidential contest.

Exonerated Calvin Duncan fights GOP bid to scrap his Orleans clerk role

2026-04-09

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry and state Senate Republicans are moving to eliminate an elected Orleans Parish clerk of criminal court post that Calvin Duncan, an exonerated man, won in November. Duncan’s swearing-in was scheduled for May 4 after he won 68% of the vote, but lawmakers voted to scrap the job. He says officials are retaliating against him for seeking to clear his name and for accurately describing his exoneration.

New deal brings journalists and their followers closer together

2026-04-09

A new multiyear licensing agreement will let Sky News make use of technology from Noosphere, a company that connects reporters with the audiences who follow their work. The AP reports the deal was announced Friday after Noosphere founder Jane Ferguson said the “talk back” approach turns news consumption into a two-way conversation through a dedicated app experience.

Pope Leo XIV wraps up Africa trip, urging peace and denouncing corruption

2026-04-09

Pope Leo XIV returned to Rome after an 11-day tour of Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea, his last stop in Equatorial Guinea’s western coast after visits to four countries meant to spotlight war, migration, corruption and the legacy of colonialism. In meetings with leaders and young people, the pope emphasized Christian-Muslim coexistence, called for an end to exploitation, and urged integrity in public life, according to coverage of the trip by The Associated Press.

Texas hemp industry sues to block smokeable hemp ban and higher fees

2026-04-09

Texas cannabis businesses and hemp-industry groups sued Texas state agencies in Travis County to block new rules that they say effectively eliminate smokeable hemp products and raise licensing fees. The lawsuit, filed Tuesday, seeks a temporary restraining order against the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.

US communities push back on plans to convert warehouses into detention centers

2026-04-09

The Department of Homeland Security is reviewing a plan to transform warehouses across the U.S. into immigration detention facilities for tens of thousands of immigrants, an Associated Press review of documents and local responses shows. Since Markwayne Mullin was sworn in, the department has paused purchases of additional warehouses and is scrutinizing contracts signed by his predecessor, Kristi Noem.

Poland’s Clean Air program shows smog gains stall amid energy worries

2026-04-09

Activists say Poland’s flagship “Clean Air” program to curb household smog-linked heating demand has lost momentum, threatening both public health progress and the country’s energy security. The government points to a mid-program reform and says it needs tighter screening to prevent misuse of public funds.

Wisconsin mayor who removed 2024 election drop box won’t face charges

2026-04-09

A special prosecutor said a Wisconsin mayor who removed an absentee ballot drop box before the 2024 election will not face charges. Wausau Mayor Doug Diny had moved the box from outside City Hall in September 2024, before voters began receiving absentee ballots, according to the city’s elections clerk. Fond du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney, acting as special prosecutor, said the evidence would not support a case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Newcomers arrive and Amazon forests are cleared as Brazil explores for oil

2026-04-09

Brazil’s Petrobras has begun exploratory offshore drilling near the mouth of the Amazon after securing environmental licensing, triggering migration to a remote riverside city as residents weigh promised jobs against infrastructure strains and environmental risks. In Oiapoque, Brazil, new neighborhoods are expanding amid limited sewage and street access, while environmental and Indigenous groups have sued to halt the drilling. City council members and Indigenous leaders described the changes unfolding as operations begin offshore and political debates intensify.

Army veteran charged with leaking classified information to journalist

2026-04-09

RALEIGH, N.C., (AP) — An Army veteran has been charged with sharing classified information about an elite commando unit with a journalist, according to the U.S. Justice Department. Courtney Williams, 40, of Wagram, North Carolina, is accused of violating federal law and nondisclosure agreements tied to her work at Fort Bragg.

Attorney disputes claims against man shot by ICE in central California

2026-04-09

A lawyer for Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez said Mendoza did not try to drive into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents during an arrest Tuesday in Patterson, California. The Department of Homeland Security said ICE agents fired defensive shots after Mendoza attempted to drive into them. The attorney also disputed federal claims that Mendoza has an arrest warrant in El Salvador.

Brazil’s Lula backs ban on online betting platforms

2026-04-09

In an interview published Wednesday, Brazil President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said he favors a national ban on online betting platforms, which he said have caused “a massive tragedy” for families by driving household debt higher. Lula, who is running for reelection in October, said any such move would require lawmakers’ approval.

Jeff Shell exits Paramount amid lawsuit; board cites no securities-rule breach

2026-04-09

Paramount confirmed Wednesday that longtime media executive Jeff Shell has “elected to transition” out of his roles as president and board member, while the company faces ongoing litigation related to Shell. The exit comes as Paramount continues efforts to take over Hollywood rival Warner Bros. Discovery, after Skydance’s acquisition closed last August.

Zeldin tells climate skeptics to "celebrate" endangerment finding repeal

2026-04-09

EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin told a conference of climate skeptics to “celebrate vindication” after the agency repealed a 2009 legal determination used as the basis for federal rules to slow climate change. The remarks came as environmental groups and others criticized his appearance at an event hosted by the conservative Heartland Institute.

Trump complains about NATO after meeting with Rutte over Iran war

2026-04-08

President Donald Trump renewed complaints about NATO after a closed-door meeting with the alliance’s secretary-general, Mark Rutte, in Washington on Wednesday. The meeting came amid a two-week U.S.-Iran ceasefire that includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, after Trump had raised threats against Iran and suggested NATO may not help if the conflict returns.

U.S. Army staff sergeant seeks help after wife detained for deportation

2026-04-08

A U.S. Army staff sergeant is trying to halt his wife’s deportation after federal immigration agents detained her inside a Louisiana military base, according to a report this week by The Associated Press. The case has drawn concern from military family advocates who say the detention is demoralizing and could disrupt troops’ readiness during wartime.

Vance in Hungary to back Orbán ahead of tough poll

2026-04-08

U.S. Vice President JD Vance urged Hungarians on Tuesday to back Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in the country’s upcoming election, speaking at a campaign rally in Budapest that drew Orbán supporters. Vance said Trump’s administration wants Orbán to win and praised the Hungarian leader’s approach to issues including immigration and his stance toward the European Union.

Rep. Eric Swalwell vows to constrain ICE if elected California governor

2026-04-08

California Rep. Eric Swalwell said he would aggressively push back against federal immigration officers if elected governor, promising to make them ineligible for state jobs and to take away their driver’s licenses if they refuse to unmask while on duty. Speaking at a town hall in Sacramento, he said, “They think they’re invincible. They’re not,” and called himself “battle-tested” in Congress.

Trump’s Iran war widens rift with European far right, deepening Hungary strain

2026-04-08

President Donald Trump’s widened Iran conflict is drawing open revulsion from European nationalist leaders and fracturing alliances that had helped unify parts of the U.S. far-right and Hungary’s ruling Fidesz party, an Associated Press report said. The rift comes as Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban faces an election this weekend and U.S. Vice President JD Vance stumps in support.

Democratic-backed Chris Taylor wins Wisconsin Supreme Court race, expanding majority

2026-04-08

Democratic-backed Chris Taylor won Wisconsin Supreme Court election Tuesday, defeating Republican-backed Maria Lazar and widening the liberal majority on the state’s top court. Taylor, a judge on the state appeals court, focused her campaign on abortion rights as the race unfolded in a battleground state ahead of November elections.

Route 66 celebrates 100 years, mixing kitsch, migration and preservation

2026-04-08

Route 66 marked its 100th anniversary this year, drawing travelers to the “Mother Road” for its neon towns, roadside diners and storied past. Despite losing federal status as a main highway decades ago, the 2,400-mile route from Chicago to Santa Monica still pulls people in—and remembers those who were helped and harmed along the way.

UW board votes unanimously to fire system president Rothman

2026-04-08

The Universities of Wisconsin board of regents voted unanimously to fire system president Jay Rothman on Tuesday, effective immediately, after he declined an offer to resign quietly. Republican lawmakers criticized the decision as a “partisan hatchet job” and said they threatened to pursue action against regents not yet confirmed by the state Senate.

Trump warns “a whole civilization will die” if Iran won’t reopen Strait

2026-04-08

President Donald Trump used language of “annihilation” to warn Iran against failing to make a deal that would include reopening the Strait of Hormuz, saying, “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again.” The remarks drew condemnation from Democrats, some Republicans and Pope Leo XIV, and renewed questions about whether threats to strike civilian infrastructure could amount to war crimes.

Hawaiʻi weighs shorter probation and lighter drug punishment

2026-04-08

Hawaiʻi lawmakers are considering changes to the state’s criminal code that would shorten probation for some non-violent felonies and reduce penalties for possession of small amounts of drugs. The proposals are part of Senate Bill 2721 and come after research and a penal-code review process raised concerns that long probation terms can lead to unnecessary incarceration for minor violations.

Trump delays Iran deadline but warns Tuesday is “final”

2026-04-08

President Donald Trump has postponed a deadline for Iran to reach a deal or reopen the Strait of Hormuz, setting a new deadline for Tuesday evening, while saying earlier extensions were enough. In the days leading up to the latest push, Trump threatened strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure and said “hell will fall” on Iran if there is no agreement, as Iran rejected a proposed cease-fire, according to Iran’s state news agency IRNA.

Timeline of Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s fight over deportation

2026-04-08

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran man deported to El Salvador despite a court ruling, has spent much of the past year in and out of detention as courts and the Trump administration fight over where he can be removed. The Associated Press compiled a timeline of key events in his legal battle, including a U.S. Supreme Court order in April 2025 and later challenges to planned “third country” removals to multiple African nations.

Judge refuses to block sending abortion pills by mail

2026-04-08

A federal judge in Louisiana declined on Tuesday to halt the ability to fill prescriptions for the abortion pill mifepristone through the mail across the U.S. for now, setting aside Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill’s bid to pause FDA rules while the state challenges them in court.

Michigan Senate primary tests limits of Democrats’ big tent

2026-04-08

By the time streaming personality Hasan Piker appeared with Abdul El-Sayed at two Michigan campaign events on Tuesday, the Democrat had already sparked internal party debate over how far the party should go to court young voters. The visits—at Michigan State University and the University of Michigan—came as El-Sayed seeks the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate, in a primary also featuring U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow.

Republican Clay Fuller wins Georgia seat formerly held by Marjorie Taylor Greene

2026-04-08

Republican Clay Fuller won Tuesday Georgia’s 14th Congressional District, taking Marjorie Taylor Greene’s former House seat and turning back Democrat Shawn Harris. The race in the deep-red district, where Republicans gained ground nationally in recent special elections, also unfolded amid concern among some Republicans about President Donald Trump’s escalating rhetoric toward Iran.

Shelly Kittleson, American journalist kidnapped in Baghdad, is freed

2026-04-08

American freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson was released Tuesday after being kidnapped from a Baghdad street corner last week, U.S. and Iraqi officials said. The release followed a statement by Kataib Hezbollah, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed early Wednesday that she was freed and that the United States was working on her safe departure.

Trump Jr. criticizes EU during Bosnia trip amid Serb separatist boost

2026-04-08

Donald Trump Jr. criticized the European Union during a visit to Bosnia on Tuesday, saying its liberal policies discourage investment and predicting a “major fracture” between the bloc’s eastern and western member states. Speaking in the northwestern Bosnian city of Banja Luka, he urged Europe to “get out of” its own way. The U.S. Embassy press office in Sarajevo said the visit was in a “private capacity,” but local leaders and officials tied it to support for Bosnia’s Serb separatist political leadership.

Arizona lawmakers consider bills to curb mobile-home utility markups

2026-04-08

Arizona lawmakers are considering a new package of bills aimed at mobile home residents, including measures that would limit what park owners can pass through for utility costs and add training requirements for park managers, according to stakeholders and bill summaries provided by the Associated Press. The proposals also include changes to rules on abandoned mobile homes, rental terms and administrative fees as the legislative session proceeds.

Fight over pills pits abortion opponents against Trump administration

2026-04-08

Anti-abortion groups are pressing the Trump administration’s FDA to move faster on restricting mifepristone, arguing that online telehealth prescribing undermines state abortion bans. A mixed ruling in a lawsuit brought by Louisiana’s attorney general drew attention to the dispute as the FDA reviews the drug’s safety and the timeline for possible rule changes.

Turkish lawmakers begin debate on bill to limit social media for children

2026-04-08

Turkish lawmakers on Tuesday kicked off debate on a draft law package that would restrict children under 15 from accessing social media platforms, with requirements for age verification and parental control tools. The bill would also require platforms to rapidly respond to content deemed harmful, and it faces criticism from Turkey’s main opposition party, which argues children should be protected through rights-based policies.

California election watchdog to investigate Santa Clara County Measure A mailers

2026-04-08

Santa Clara County is facing an investigation by California’s election watchdog after complaints alleging the county spent public money on Measure A campaign mailers. The Fair Political Practices Commission said in a Tuesday letter that it will probe the county over allegations connected to the voter-approved sales tax increase aimed at protecting hospitals. County officials deny wrongdoing and say the mailers were informational about budget impacts from federal spending cuts.

AP to Offer Buyouts, Accelerating Pivot from Newspapers to AI, Visuals

2026-04-08

The Associated Press is offering buyouts to U.S.-based journalists as it accelerates its transition away from a newspaper-centric model and focuses on visual journalism and new revenue streams, particularly in artificial intelligence. The move comes as traditional newspaper revenue declines and the AP seeks to adapt to a changing media landscape.

US communities push back on plans to convert warehouses into detention centers

2026-04-08

Communities across the United States are pushing back on federal plans to convert warehouses into immigration detention centers for tens of thousands of immigrants, as the new Homeland Security secretary reviews contracts signed by his predecessor. The Department of Homeland Security has also paused new warehouse purchases while it scrutinizes those agreements, according to the Associated Press.

California considers green jet fuel tax credit that critics say drains road funds

2026-04-08

California Gov. Gavin Newsom is advancing a proposal that would give tax credits aimed at boosting production of sustainable aviation fuel, with credits funded through a mechanism tied to diesel excise taxes. Supporters say the plan protects jobs and helps meet climate goals, while critics including UC Berkeley economists and the state’s nonpartisan legislative analyst warn it could raise gas prices and divert money from highway and local road maintenance. The proposal is expected to receive a final legislative hearing on Thursday.

Study finds Black-led nonprofits’ post-2020 funding gains didn’t last

2026-04-08

New research released Tuesday says many Black-led nonprofits saw only short-lived increases in funding after 2020’s racial reckoning, while smaller organizations showed little or no change. The study by nonprofit research service Candid and the racial justice philanthropy group ABFE found some large Black-led groups experienced temporary gains between 2020 and 2022 but that those increases faded for many.

Democrats court Black activists at Al Sharpton event, warn of 2026 vote crackdown

2026-04-08

New York-based Democrats running for the 2028 presidential nomination used Al Sharpton’s National Action Network convention to warn Black voters that the Trump administration is undermining voting rights ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said the administration would send ICE and CBP officers to “scare people away from the polls,” and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore called the effort “voter suppression.” Other prospective contenders including Gov. Josh Shapiro and Rep. Ro Khanna framed the contest as a moral test and urged attention to Black history and civil-rights priorities.

Acting AG Todd Blanche says only Trump knows why Pam Bondi was replaced

2026-04-08

WASHINGTON — Todd Blanche, the deputy attorney general elevated to acting attorney general after Pam Bondi was replaced last week, told reporters Tuesday that “nobody” except President Donald Trump knows why she left the post. Asked whether Bondi was removed because prosecutors failed to bring cases against the president’s perceived adversaries, Blanche said he did not know and pointed to Trump’s role in the change.

Michigan youth sent out of state for mental health care as beds close

2026-04-08

Michigan is sending some youth in severe mental health crises to out-of-state facilities as local treatment options shrink, according to reporting that cites state data. The placements involve children in direct-placement and court-supervised programs, and families say the travel and limited contact complicate visits and care.

Shots fired at Indianapolis councilman’s home; ‘No Data Centers’ note left

2026-04-08

Ron Gibson, an Indianapolis councilman, said someone fired 13 shots at his home and left a note reading “No Data Centers” on his doorstep. Gibson said he and his 8-year-old son were awakened early Monday but were not injured. Indianapolis Metropolitan Police said officers found evidence of gunshots at a home on East 41st Street after 9 a.m. and that no injuries were reported.

Immigration officers say they shot suspected gang member in California

2026-04-08

A man was shot and wounded during an ICE immigration arrest in central California on Tuesday, federal authorities said. The Department of Homeland Security said agents fired defensive shots after the suspect tried to run over an officer with his car, and he was later taken to a hospital.

Sen. Elissa Slotkin gauges Trump voters in Iowa as Democrats eye midterms

2026-04-08

Slotkin, a Michigan Democrat and U.S. senator, met Tuesday with Trump voters in Iowa ahead of this fall’s midterm elections and also plans a health-care town hall with state Sen. Sarah Trone Garriott. During the focus-group lunch, Slotkin said she is “interested in being a part of the next generation” that can “rehab the Democratic brand,” while pressing voters on what would lead them to consider a Democrat.

Detained aid worker Joseph Figueira Martin freed in Central African Republic

2026-04-08

Detained aid worker Joseph Figueira Martin, held in the Central African Republic for nearly two years, was freed Tuesday, his family told The Associated Press. His brother said he could be in Lisbon within hours. The Central African Republic prosecutor’s office had said Martin was arrested in May 2024 on allegations including spying and contact with armed groups to plot a coup.

Wife of U.S. soldier released from federal immigration detention

2026-04-08

A federal immigration judge in 2005 ordered a Honduran-born woman released, and she was later released Tuesday from detention where she had been held nearly a week after being taken into custody on a Louisiana military base, the woman and officials said. Annie Ramos, the wife of a U.S. Army staff sergeant preparing to deploy, was released with a GPS monitor while she faces further removal proceedings, the Department of Homeland Security said.

CIA ends public access to World Factbook, prompting educator and fan backlash

2026-04-08

The Central Intelligence Agency has shut down public access to its World Factbook, a free, long-running reference database that includes maps and country-by-country information, according to the CIA and a report by Laurie Kellman. The change, announced during the Trump administration, has sparked grief and concern among educators and others who used the resource in classrooms and research.

Minneapolis’ Hennepin County Medical Center survival threatened by finances

2026-04-08

Hennepin County Medical Center, Minnesota’s busiest Level 1 trauma hospital and safety-net provider, is facing the prospect of closure without state action, according to health care workers and county officials. Hospital leaders and union representatives said they expect a bill to be introduced at the Minnesota Legislature’s Capitol as soon as Tuesday.

North Carolina visit: DHS chief Mullin promises FEMA disaster relief progress

2026-04-08

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin toured parts of North Carolina devastated by Hurricane Helene, pledging faster progress on federal disaster assistance during his first official trip in the role. Mullin said the Trump administration would help move forward on pending disaster declaration requests and clear a backlog of FEMA needs ahead of the June 1 start of the Atlantic hurricane season.

U.S. seeks to deport Abrego Garcia to Liberia despite Costa Rica deal

2026-04-08

The U.S. government told a federal judge it still intends to deport Salvadoran citizen Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Liberia, despite a new agreement with Costa Rica to accept some deportees who cannot legally be returned to their home countries. In court in Maryland, Judge Paula Xinis scheduled further briefing and a new hearing for April 28.

Swalwell says he would restrict ICE via California governor powers

2026-04-07

Rep. Eric Swalwell on Tuesday promised that, if elected California governor, he would aggressively push back on federal immigration officers, including making them ineligible for state jobs and seeking to remove their driver’s licenses if they would not “unmask” while on duty. The town hall in Sacramento came with less than a month until California’s June 2 primary, in a crowded race shaped by the state’s top-two election system.

Court asked to lift halt on closing Everglades immigration detention center

2026-04-07

Environmental groups asked a federal appeals court panel Tuesday to lift a temporary halt on an order requiring Florida officials to close the state’s Everglades detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz.” The request comes as judges at the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals questioned when federal law applies to the state-run facility, which opened last summer to support President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.

Trump orders UFO files released, reigniting debate on whether aliens exist

2026-04-07

The Associated Press reports that President Donald Trump has directed the release of government UFO and UAP files, reviving public debate about whether extraterrestrial life exists and what it might mean. The conversation has also gained momentum as the United States heads back toward the moon with NASA’s Artemis II mission, which launches Wednesday with four astronauts for a fly-around of the lunar orbiter.

Democratic-backed Chris Taylor wins Wisconsin Supreme Court race

2026-04-07

Chris Taylor, a Democratic-backed candidate and Wisconsin Appeals Court judge, won election to the state Supreme Court on Tuesday, defeating Republican-backed Maria Lazar. The win expands the court’s liberal majority as Wisconsin braces for future fights over congressional redistricting, union rights and abortion policy, with a November election and other high-stakes contests looming.

What to expect in Wisconsin’s spring election for Supreme Court, Waukesha mayor

2026-04-07

Wisconsin voters will vote Tuesday in a spring election that includes a contest for a new justice on the state Supreme Court and Waukesha’s first open-seat mayoral race in 20 years. The races will be decided in addition to other nonpartisan offices, outside the November elections. Polls close at 8 p.m. local time, and the AP will declare results only when there is no scenario that could allow a trailing candidate to close the gap.

Hungary election spotlights Orbán’s friction with European Union

2026-04-07

BUDAPEST, Hungary — Hungary will vote on April 12, a contest that could determine whether Viktor Orban, the European Union’s longest-serving leader, faces defeat after a long record of blocking decisions in the bloc, lawmakers and analysts said. The election is being watched across Europe as the EU tries to respond to wars, Russian sabotage efforts and other strains, with Orban’s vetoes limiting options and fueling calls for treaty and policy changes.

Georgia voters choose runoff replacement for Marjorie Taylor Greene

2026-04-07

Voters in Georgia’s 14th Congressional District will hold a special runoff Tuesday to choose a replacement for Marjorie Taylor Greene, after she resigned in early 2026 following a public rift with President Donald Trump. The contest follows a March 10 special election in which none of the 17 candidates won a majority, setting up a matchup between Democrat Shawn Harris and Republican Clay Fuller.

Trump administration agencies post Easter messages hailing Christ’s resurrection

2026-04-07

The Trump administration has posted Easter messages on official social media accounts that celebrate Jesus Christ’s resurrection, drawing both praise from some Christians and criticism from others who say government agencies should not endorse a specific faith. On April 5, the Department of Homeland Security and the State Department posted “He is risen,” while the Defense Department shared a message from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The Justice Department also posted an Easter remark, while President Donald Trump referenced Christ in a Good Friday statement and took a harsher tone on Easter Sunday in a Truth Social post tied to the Iran war.

Trump administration ends agreements protecting transgender students

2026-04-07

The U.S. Education Department said it has terminated federal civil-rights agreements with five school districts and Taft College that were designed to protect transgender students. The department said the move removes obligations negotiated under prior administrations, including requirements for staff training and bathroom access aligned with students’ gender identity.

President Trump endorses Republican Steve Hilton in California governor race

2026-04-07

President Donald Trump endorsed Republican Steve Hilton for California governor, a move his supporters said could consolidate conservative backing in a wide-open, crowded primary. Trump made the endorsement Sunday on his Truth Social account, about a month before mail ballots go out ahead of the June 2 top-two primary.

Seoul says it’s fair to view Kim Jong Un’s teen daughter as heir

2026-04-07

Seoul’s spy agency said in a closed-door briefing that it is now fair to view Kim Jong Un’s teenage daughter as his heir, a stronger assessment than it made earlier in 2024 and this year. South Korea’s lawmakers pressed the National Intelligence Service for details about the girl’s political standing and her relationship to Kim’s long regarded No. 2, Kim Yo Jong.

AP offers buyouts as it pivots away from newspaper-focused history

2026-04-07

The Associated Press said it will offer buyouts to an unspecified number of its U.S.-based journalists as it accelerates a shift away from a newspaper-first legacy and toward more video and new revenue sources. Julie Pace, AP executive editor and senior vice president, said Monday the work is intended to cut global staffing by less than 5% while keeping the AP in all 50 states.

Black-led nonprofits saw post-2020 funding boosts fade quickly, study says

2026-04-07

The racial reckoning after George Floyd’s killing in 2020 sparked promises of longer-term support for underfunded, Black-led nonprofits. But new research released Tuesday found that many of the funding increases those groups experienced were short-lived, and smaller nonprofits saw no significant change, according to Candid and ABFE. The report also links the pattern of disinvestment to a wider climate of funding uncertainty under President Donald Trump.

UW Board of Regents to vote on firing system president Jay Rothman

2026-04-07

The Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents scheduled a Tuesday vote to consider firing system president Jay Rothman after he refused an offer to quietly resign, according to letters he sent to regents. Board of Regents President Amy Bogost said Rothman was not given notice and the process was not sudden, and Rothman has said he was not told the reason for the proposed ouster.

San Marcos, California, is on track to meet housing goals in most categories

2026-04-07

San Marcos, California, is on track to meet state-mandated housing targets in three of four income categories, an outcome city leaders attribute to planning and negotiating with developers, according to an Associated Press report. The city is on pace in moderate and above-moderate categories, but has not matched targets for “very low” income housing, the report said.

Iowa appeals court lets state enforce K-6 LGBTQ book ban, curbs instruction

2026-04-07

Iowa’s Republican-backed law restricting discussion of LGBTQ+ topics in kindergarten through sixth grade and banning some books in schools will be enforced for now after an appeals court decision on Monday. The ruling from a three-judge panel vacated a lower court’s temporary blocks on portions of the law, according to the Associated Press. Iowa’s attorneys had asked the U.S. Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn earlier decisions by a federal judge, which had partially limited the state’s enforcement.

Exiled Iranian activists say authorities detain family members back home

2026-04-07

Iran’s government is detaining family members of Iranian opposition figures in exile and threatening to seize their property, activists overseas told The Associated Press. The threats come as war with the United States and Israel intensifies and as Iran’s crackdown expands to intimidate people who speak to outside media.

Once-sleepy utility elections intensify as electricity bills rise

2026-04-07

Rising household electricity prices and debates over the role of data centers are reshaping low-profile races for utility regulators, with Arizona’s Salt River Project election and Alabama’s push to reshape the state Public Service Commission drawing national attention. The contests reflect broader questions about how to meet power demand for artificial intelligence and other uses without driving up bills for households.

Connecticut churches seek faster approvals to build affordable housing

2026-04-07

Connecticut churches are pushing a bill that would speed up local approvals for affordable housing on land owned by religious organizations. The “Yes in God’s backyard,” or YIGBY, proposal would allow eligible projects to receive a 90-day “summary review” if they meet local zoning rules and keep at least 30% of units affordable.

Centerville, South Dakota, uses vacant building ordinance to revitalize downtown

2026-04-07

Centerville, a town of about 900 people in eastern South Dakota, has become known as a statewide leader in downtown redevelopment, fueled in part by a vacant building ordinance implemented in 2017. Town economic development coordinator Jared Hybertson said the policy uses a registration system, inspections, warning letters, threats of fines and eventual fines to prompt property owners to improve or sell. Local officials and business owners have used the ordinance’s leverage to buy, rehabilitate or tear down nearly a dozen deteriorated downtown buildings and bring in new shops and services.

CIA ends World Factbook access; educators and researchers mourn loss

2026-04-07

The CIA stopped making the CIA World Factbook available to the public on Feb. 4, ending a decades-long reference resource used by students, educators and researchers. In a report published April 5, Associated Press said the agency framed the shutdown as part of a change in its mission and urged users to “remain curious.”

Hollywood crafts narrative on visitors from space

2026-04-07

Hollywood’s long-running depictions of extraterrestrials and UFOs are poised to blend again with government disclosure, as President Donald Trump has called for agencies to release secret files related to extraterrestrials and UFOs. A Duke University professor says decades of science-fiction storytelling have helped shape how Americans imagine contact—whether as rescue and warning or as invasion.

Pennsylvania counties billed ICE more than $21 million for immigrant jails

2026-04-07

A Spotlight PA review found that five Pennsylvania counties earned more than $21 million in recent years by billing the federal government for detaining immigrants for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in local jails. The agreements predate the second Trump administration but are drawing new attention as the administration’s mass deportation effort relies on local partners. The payments and cooperation arrangements have sparked pushback at the local level, including changes to one county’s contract with the U.S. Marshals Service.

European ministers urge EU profit caps as Iran war pushes energy inflation

2026-04-06

Europe’s finance ministers from five countries are urging the European Union to impose an EU-wide windfall tax or “profit caps” on energy companies, warning that surging oil and gas prices tied to the Iran conflict will fuel inflation and strain households, according to a letter made public by Spain’s economy minister. Spanish Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said Saturday that his counterparts from Germany, Italy, Portugal and Austria had signed the letter to the European Commission.

Wisconsin spring election pits Supreme Court contenders and Waukesha mayor race

2026-04-06

Wisconsin voters head to the polls Tuesday to choose a new Wisconsin Supreme Court justice in a race that could keep or shift the court’s liberal majority, and they will also elect Waukesha’s next mayor. The contest includes state Appeals Court judges Chris Taylor and Maria Lazar vying to replace retiring Justice Rebecca Bradley, and a Waukesha mayoral open-seat race after Mayor Shawn Reilly announced he will not seek a fourth term.

Rubio revokes green cards and visas tied to Iran government, ICE arrests

2026-04-06

The Trump administration has revoked the green cards or U.S. visas of at least four Iranian nationals connected to the current or former Iranian government, the State Department said. Among those affected are relatives of Qassem Soleimani that the government said were arrested by immigration agents and placed in ICE custody.

Trivia games and happy hours help power Platner's Senate campaign

2026-04-06

KITTERY, Maine (AP) — Graham Platner, a first-time Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Maine, is using events like trivia nights and brewery happy hours to keep his campaign visible ahead of the June 9 Democratic primary against Gov. Janet Mills. Organizers say the informal gatherings help supporters meet neighbors face-to-face while the campaign also tries to counter questions about Platner’s past statements and tattoos.

Democratic-backed Chris Taylor wins Wisconsin Supreme Court race

2026-04-06

Democratic-backed Chris Taylor won election to Wisconsin’s Supreme Court on Tuesday, expanding the liberal majority on the court as the battleground state faces future legal fights over issues including congressional redistricting and union rights. Taylor defeated Republican-backed Maria Lazar after focusing her campaign heavily on abortion rights, while Lazar warned she would bring a right-wing agenda to the bench.

Trump administration asks appeals court to pause White House ballroom halt

2026-04-06

The Trump administration urged a federal appeals court to pause a judge’s order that temporarily halted White House ballroom construction, arguing the shutdown poses national-security risks for President Donald Trump and his family. In a filing, National Park Service lawyers said materials planned for the project would create a “heavily fortified” facility that is safer than current conditions at the open construction site.

AP to offer buyouts to US journalists as it accelerates pivot away from print

2026-04-06

The Associated Press said Monday it is offering buyouts to an unspecified number of its U.S.-based journalists as it accelerates a shift away from its newspaper-focused history. The AP said it is becoming more focused on visual journalism and is developing new revenue sources, including deals and investments tied to artificial intelligence.

Jack Schlossberg, Kennedy heir, enters crowded New York City race

2026-04-06

New York voters will choose in a June Democratic primary for a Manhattan congressional seat that Democratic Rep. Jerry Nadler is retiring from, and Jack Schlossberg, a grandson of John F. Kennedy, is trying to turn Kennedy name recognition and a hit TV drama about the family into votes. The 33-year-old, a social media star, faces an experienced field that includes former Nadler aide Micah Lasher and state Assemblymember Alex Bores.

Nearly a century of wondering: How U.S. UFO claims evolved in reality and fiction

2026-04-06

Nearly a century after the first widely reported U.S. UFO sighting, the American story of “UFOs” has continued to evolve through government investigations, military radar and pilot reports, and waves of popular movies and TV. The saga includes a 2019 Pentagon acknowledgment of declassified footage as unidentified aerial phenomena and a 2024 Defense Department study finding no evidence of aliens or extraterrestrial intelligence.

Rural Virginia voters weigh Democrats’ redistricting referendum and its consequences

2026-04-06

Virginia voters are set to decide April 21 on a constitutional amendment tied to a mid-decade redistricting plan promoted by Democrats. In rural counties, supporters said the new district lines are necessary to compete, while others expressed worry that the change could further entrench Republicans. Early voting began, setting up a potential legal fight if the referendum is approved.

Toddler allegedly abused while in federal immigration custody, family says

2026-04-06

The family of a 3-year-old immigrant girl says she suffered alleged sexual abuse while she was in federal custody after U.S. officials separated her from her mother following their border crossing. Her father, a legal permanent resident, said he waited months for release and only learned of the alleged abuse when attorneys began court action.

European ministers seek EU profit caps as Iran war pushes energy prices

2026-04-05

European finance ministers led by Spain urged the European Union to impose a bloc-wide windfall tax on energy companies, warning that oil and gas price surges tied to Iran war could stoke inflation. Spain’s Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said the ministers had signed a letter to the European Commission dated Friday and made public Saturday, arguing the burden should be shared fairly. The ministers cited earlier EU “solidarity” measures and warned that households could face renewed strain as disruption threatens fuel markets.

Rubio revokes Soleimani relatives’ U.S. green cards and visas

2026-04-05

The Trump administration has revoked green cards or U.S. visas for at least four Iranian nationals connected to Iran’s current or former government, Secretary of State Marco Rubio decided this week, the State Department said. The latest actions include the arrest of Qassem Soleimani’s niece and her daughter, who are now in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody, according to the department.

Trump asks appeals court to pause order halting $400M White House ballroom

2026-04-05

The Trump administration urged a federal appeals court to pause a judge’s order that temporarily halted construction of a new $400 million White House ballroom, arguing the stoppage creates national-security risks. In a motion filed Friday, National Park Service lawyers said the project—including provisions described as bomb shelters and other security and medical facilities—must continue without interruption as the administration appeals.

Trivia games and happy hours help power Platner’s Senate campaign

2026-04-05

Graham Platner is using trivia nights, “happy hours” and other social events to build visibility for his bid to win the June 9 Democratic Senate primary in Maine, a contest that will determine who challenges Sen. Susan Collins. The Associated Press reported on how campaign gatherings in towns such as Kittery have turned questions about Platner’s past into a promotional format for supporters.

Rural Virginia voters weigh Democrats’ referendum redistricting plan

2026-04-05

Rural Virginians are debating a proposed mid-decade redistricting referendum backed by Democrats, with voting set for April 21 and early balloting already underway. Supporters and opponents say the change could redraw the state’s 7th and 9th U.S. House districts in ways that shift political power before November’s midterm elections.

Wisconsin voters weigh Supreme Court seat and Waukesha mayor’s race

2026-04-05

Wisconsin voters will choose a new state Supreme Court justice and cast ballots in Waukesha’s first open-seat mayoral race in 20 years on Tuesday. State Appeals Court judges Chris Taylor and Maria Lazar are running to replace retiring Justice Rebecca Bradley, while Waukesha Common Council President Alicia Halvensleben and state Rep. Scott Allen seek to succeed Mayor Shawn Reilly.

Moms for Liberty finds a receptive ally in the Trump administration

2026-04-05

President Donald Trump’s administration has elevated Moms for Liberty, a group that built its influence by challenging school content and pushing a parental-rights agenda, into a role where its co-founder, Tina Descovich, meets with White House officials and policy leaders. In interviews, Descovich said the group has a seat at the table on issues including transgender sports bans, artificial intelligence in education, and changes to federal education priorities.

Trump’s go-it-alone certainty faces wartime limits amid ally pressure

2026-04-05

President Donald Trump told Americans during a White House address Wednesday that “We’ve beaten and completely decimated Iran,” describing the country as “decimated both militarily and economically and in every other way.” His certainty is being tested by developments including the loss of a U.S. fighter jet shot down in Iran on Friday and reports that Iranian air defenses hit another U.S. aircraft. As the war enters its sixth week, European leaders and some U.S. Republicans are also pushing for a broader coalition as Trump’s approach keeps allies at arm’s length.

AP to offer buyouts as it accelerates shift toward video and AI

2026-04-05

The Associated Press said it will offer buyouts to an unspecified number of its U.S. journalists as it accelerates a shift away from a newspaper-centered business model. Julie Pace, AP’s executive editor and senior vice president, said the organization needs to be “bolder in this transformation” as it invests in visual journalism and builds new revenue streams.

Jack Schlossberg, Kennedy heir, enters crowded New York City race

2026-04-05

NEW YORK (AP) — Jack Schlossberg, the 33-year-old grandson of former President John F. Kennedy, is seeking a Democratic nomination in a crowded June primary for a Manhattan U.S. House seat. The race has drawn attention to his Kennedy lineage and the buzz around “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette,” a TV series about his family. Schlossberg says voters are drawn to his experience and policies, not just his name.

European ministers seek EU profit caps for energy firms amid Iran war

2026-04-04

European finance ministers from five countries are urging the European Union to impose an EU-wide windfall tax or profit cap on energy companies, warning that surging oil and gas prices tied to the Iran war could fuel inflation and strain households. Spain’s Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo said the group has asked the European Commission to create a “similar EU-wide contribution instrument” like one used during the 2022 energy-market turmoil after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Midterm elections loom as GOP grapples with Trump's wartime presidency

2026-04-04

In a prime-time address from the White House, President Donald Trump said the United States was on track to complete “all of America’s military objectives” against Iran “shortly,” while also forecasting a new push “over the next two to three weeks.” As the midterms approach, Republicans are bracing for political blowback over the Iran war and its economic fallout, including higher gasoline prices and a closed Strait of Hormuz.

Trump proposes 2027 budget boosts Pentagon spending to $1.5T

2026-04-04

President Donald Trump has proposed $1.5 trillion for defense in his 2027 budget, released Friday, setting up a potential clash with Congress as he pairs the increase with cuts to domestic programs. The White House says the request would raise Pentagon funding by about 44% and reduce non-defense spending by 10%.

China proposes five-point Iran-war plan with Pakistan, seeks U.N. opposition

2026-04-04

China is stepping up diplomacy on the Iran war with a five-point proposal advanced with Pakistan, Gulf backing, and opposition to a United Nations move that would authorize force to open the Strait of Hormuz, the Associated Press reported April 4. AP said the effort is also aimed at positioning Beijing to play a more prominent diplomatic role while U.S. officials expressed limited interest in Chinese mediation.

Judge halts Trump effort to collect colleges’ race admissions data

2026-04-04

A federal judge in Boston halted a Trump administration effort that would have required many colleges and universities to provide detailed data meant to show they were not considering race in admissions. In granting a preliminary injunction, U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV said the data request was rolled out in a “rushed and chaotic” manner after a 120-day deadline. The order applies to public universities in a lawsuit brought by 17 Democratic state attorneys general.

How the Epstein files dogged Pam Bondi's time as attorney general

2026-04-04

President Donald Trump on Thursday removed Pam Bondi as U.S. attorney general, a move that capped a contentious run over the Justice Department’s handling of the “Epstein files,” the records sought by victims and political allies alike. The files controversy, with its shifting promises and document releases, became a recurring flashpoint during Bondi’s tenure.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani hears Bronx “rental rip-off” complaints

2026-04-04

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani held a series of “rental rip-off hearings” for tenants to air complaints directly to housing officials — including, at times, the mayor himself — AP reported April 3. At the Bronx event, residents described problems ranging from mold and rat infestations to long elevator outages and said they struggle to identify who owns their building.

Trump asks appeals court to pause order halting White House ballroom

2026-04-04

The Trump administration has asked a federal appeals court to pause a judge’s order that halted construction of a new White House ballroom valued at $400 million, arguing the stop would create national-security risks. The request asks the appeals court to act by Friday and to extend a temporary 14-day pause while the case moves through higher courts.

Georgia lawmakers advance bill allowing lawsuits over homelessness enforcement

2026-04-04

Georgia lawmakers passed a bill that would let property owners sue local governments if they believe policies banning people from sleeping outside and limiting “sanctuary” cooperation with federal immigration authorities were not enforced. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Houston Gaines, would allow claimants to seek compensation tied to alleged lost property value or costs, if Gov. Brian Kemp signs it.

Trivia nights and happy hours shape Platner’s push in Maine Senate primary

2026-04-04

Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner is leaning on trivia games and community gatherings to build support ahead of the June 9 Democratic primary against Gov. Janet Mills. The campaign is also using the events to frame Platner’s past controversies as part of a redemption story, supporters say, as Mills and Susan Collins’s campaign teams argue the approach is too risky for an electorate that prefers the known.

In rural Virginia, Democrats seek redistricting referendum as vote nears

2026-04-04

Louisa and Goochland County voters are weighing a Democratic-backed referendum on changing Virginia’s congressional districts, with the ballot set for April 21. Supporters in rural communities say it is needed to compete against Republicans, while critics warn the plan will entrench GOP dominance in more conservative areas.

Trump’s go-it-alone certainty collides with Iran war uncertainties

2026-04-04

President Donald Trump, in a prime-time White House address, told Americans that Iran had been “decimated” and that U.S. forces were “unstoppable,” as the conflict’s early results have exposed how little control the president has once war begins. Days after his remarks, an American fighter jet was shot down in Iran, and Iranian state media reported another U.S. aircraft was hit by air defenses.

Hungarian opposition leader Péter Magyar calls election a referendum on world place

2026-04-04

Péter Magyar, the Hungarian opposition leader and founder of the Tisza party, said the election next week against Prime Minister Viktor Orbán will be a “referendum” on whether Hungary can return to democratic Europe or continues drifting toward Eastern autocracies. In an interview with The Associated Press on Thursday in Kiskunhalas, Magyar also accused Orbán of steering the country toward Russia and driving widespread corruption.

Nevada judge blocks ICE from detaining nearly all deportation cases

2026-04-04

A federal judge in Nevada ruled this week that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement cannot detain everyone facing deportation under the Trump administration’s “mandatory detention” policy. The decision, issued by U.S. District Judge Richard Boulware II, applies to a class of people held by ICE in Nevada and could allow dozens each week to seek release while their cases proceed.

Shiite displaced in Lebanon face hostility amid Israel-Hezbollah war

2026-04-04

Displaced Shiite families in Lebanon are struggling to find housing as Israel’s airstrikes and evacuation orders stoke suspicion in areas where Hezbollah is not present. In interviews in Beirut and surrounding regions, displaced residents and local officials described landlords refusing rentals, demanding large upfront payments, and in some cases requiring security checks tied to Hezbollah. Police and the army have increased their presence as communal frictions rise.

Bahrain cracks down on dissent as Iran war reignites protests

2026-04-04

Bahrain’s crackdown on dissent has intensified as the war between the United States and Iran has reignited unrest in the Gulf kingdom, where critics say authorities are reviving tactics used against Arab Spring protests in 2011. The death of Mohamed al-Mousawi, a Shiite Muslim who had previously been imprisoned, has become a flashpoint amid renewed detentions tied to the conflict, according to reports this week.

Trump administration revokes some Iranian visas and green cards

2026-04-04

The Trump administration has revoked the green cards or U.S. visas of at least four Iranian nationals linked to Iran’s current or former government, including two people detained by U.S. immigration authorities and set to be deported, the State Department said on April 4. The latest actions followed a determination by Secretary of State Marco Rubio that the individuals were no longer eligible for lawful permanent resident status or to enter the United States.

Trump’s $50B rural health fund offers ailing hospitals few solutions

2026-04-04

Rural hospitals across the U.S. are warning that a new $50 billion federal program meant to transform rural health care will not prevent closures as Medicaid cuts squeeze their budgets, the Associated Press reported. In Nebraska, patients and state officials say the program’s innovation focus may not address immediate operating shortfalls tied to Medicaid funding reductions.

Moms for Liberty finds a receptive ally in the Trump administration

2026-04-04

Moms for Liberty co-founder and CEO Tina Descovich has become a frequent presence at the White House since President Donald Trump returned to office, moving from local school-board activism to federal policy influence. In an interview, Descovich said the group has a “voice” in discussions over transgender sports bans, AI in education, dismantling the Education Department and ending diversity, equity and inclusion. Critics say the group is advancing an agenda they view as extreme through the administration.

Georgia lawmakers end session without voting-machine plan for 2026

2026-04-04

Georgia lawmakers ended their annual session early Friday without settling a conflict over voting machines ahead of a July 1 deadline, leaving the state’s election process in November unclear. The dispute centers on Dominion Voting machines that print QR-coded ballots and on a 2024 law that bans using barcodes to count votes.

Outrage over AI data centers could aid Georgia Democrats in 2026

2026-04-04

Georgia lawmakers spent months considering ways to curb the impact of data centers on electricity rates and local taxes but largely left the status quo in place as the 2026 session ended Thursday, according to the Associated Press. With elections approaching, activists and Democrats say the resulting anger could influence races for the Georgia Public Service Commission and the governor’s office, and help Democrats gain ground in the state House.

Pam Bondi is out as U.S. attorney general; new pick faces skepticism

2026-04-04

Pam Bondi has been removed as U.S. attorney general after prosecutors failed to secure criminal cases against President Donald Trump’s political enemies. The Justice Department has run into obstacles from judges, grand jurors, and even within its own workforce, and the next attorney general will likely confront the same evidentiary and legal hurdles.

Jack Schlossberg, Kennedy heir, enters crowded New York City race

2026-04-04

Jack Schlossberg, the 33-year-old grandson of President John F. Kennedy, is trying to turn his Kennedy lineage and a renewed wave of attention from a hit TV series into momentum in a crowded Democratic primary for a Manhattan House seat. The race, centered on whether voters will see family name and pop-culture hype as a substitute for political experience, is set against the retirement of longtime Rep. Jerry Nadler.

Tribes in Montana lose millions after USDA terminates farm grants

2026-04-04

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has terminated nearly $9 million in farm-grant contracts awarded through a Biden-era program, affecting projects on the Blackfeet and Rocky Boy’s reservations in Montana and leaving tribes and nonprofits scrambling to restructure plans. Officials at the Piikani Lodge Health Institute and the Chippewa Cree Tribe said the cancellations threaten agricultural training and land-acquisition efforts.

Republican leader criticizes efforts to fire UW system president Rothman

2026-04-04

A Republican legislative leader criticized efforts by the University of Wisconsin system’s board of regents to remove President Jay Rothman, saying the board is threatening to fire him without explaining why. In letters to regents obtained by The Associated Press, Rothman said the board was trying to force him to resign or face dismissal. Regents declined to comment.

Tennessee eases child support rule for voting rights after felony

2026-04-04

A new Tennessee law signed by Gov. Bill Lee eases two financial hurdles for people with felony sentences seeking to restore their voting rights, including a requirement that child support be fully paid. The Republican-supermajority Legislature approved the Democratic-sponsored changes last week, with supporters saying the update removes barriers while still requiring compliance with child-support orders.

Why Mormon influencers dominate social media feeds and TV screens

2026-04-04

LOS ANGELES—“The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” and a wider wave of Latter-day Saint social media creators have helped turn Mormonism into a recurring topic across U.S. pop culture, while also drawing criticism from church leaders and from some members who say portrayals can feel misleading.

Mississippi home mitigation bill heads to Gov. Tate Reeves after approvals

2026-04-04

Mississippi lawmakers on Wednesday sent a bill to Gov. Tate Reeves that would create a state grant program to help homeowners retrofit properties to withstand hurricanes, tornadoes and other windstorm damage. The Strengthen Mississippi Homes Program, approved by both the House and Senate, would offer grants of up to $10,000, administered through the state Department of Insurance.

Las Vegas Review-Journal stops printing rival Las Vegas Sun

2026-04-04

The Las Vegas Review-Journal said it will no longer print the Las Vegas Sun as an insert for the first time in more than 75 years, escalating a dispute over Nevada’s last joint operating agreement under a 1970 federal law. The Sun’s attorney said the change would “irreparable harm” and the two papers are set to appear in court Friday seeking a judge-ordered restart of daily printing.

3 Greek ministers quit during EU investigation into alleged farm subsidy fraud

2026-04-04

Three Greek ministers resigned on Friday as a European investigation seeks to pursue alleged European Union farm subsidy fraud, according to an Associated Press report. The resignations included Agriculture Minister Kostas Tsiaras, Civil Protection Minister Yiannis Kefalogiannis and Deputy Health Minister Dimitris Vartzopoulos, who all denied wrongdoing and said the move was intended to facilitate the inquiry.

China investigates former Xinjiang party chief Ma Xingrui

2026-04-04

China’s Communist Party disciplinary body said Friday it has placed former Xinjiang party chief Ma Xingrui under investigation over suspected violations of discipline and law, according to a statement. Ma served as party secretary of Xinjiang from 2021 to 2025 and previously held senior posts in national and provincial governments.

Federal judge says Border Patrol California sweeps violated court order

2026-04-04

A federal judge in California ruled that Border Patrol agents continued making illegal stops and arrests after she ordered them to stop. In a decision unsealed April 3, Judge Jennifer Thurston said agents “again detained people without reasonable suspicion” in the Central Valley after she issued a preliminary injunction barring them from detaining people without documenting specific facts for the stops.

Freed prisoners celebrate in Cuba as rights groups demand release of protesters

2026-04-04

The Cuban government freed prisoners on Friday, a move it described as “humanitarian gestures” ahead of Holy Week. Families gathered outside a prison on the outskirts of Havana as detainees were released in one of the biggest prisoner releases in years, but human rights groups said they had not seen evidence that political detainees or protesters were among those freed.

Regulators seek public input for massive Montana-Wyoming oil pipeline proposal

2026-04-04

Regulators in the U.S. and the states of Montana and Wyoming are seeking public comment on the proposed Bridger Pipeline Expansion, a project intended to move Canadian crude from the border in Phillips County, Montana, to a terminal near Guernsey. The 30-day public scoping period began this week, with officials planning multiple public meetings as the federal review evaluates environmental and community impacts.

Interior Department to rejoin offshore drilling agencies in new structure

2026-04-04

The Trump administration said it is combining two offshore drilling agencies created after the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill into a single unit under the Department of the Interior. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said the change would streamline offshore oil and gas permitting while keeping existing regulatory protections and safety standards.

Trump signs 100% tariff order targeting some patented drugs

2026-04-03

President Donald Trump signed an executive order that could impose up to 100% tariffs on some patented pharmaceuticals from companies that do not reach “most favored nation” pricing deals with his administration. The order also sets a schedule under which companies that start onshoring patented drug production and ingredients in the U.S. may face lower initial duties that rise over time, the Associated Press reported.

Trump says he’ll sign order to resume pay for Homeland Security workers

2026-04-03

President Donald Trump said Thursday he will soon sign an order to pay all Department of Homeland Security employees who have gone without paychecks during the record-long partial government shutdown that has reached 48 days. His move bypasses Congress, but funding gaps for some DHS work likely remain into next week as House leaders consider a Senate-backed plan they had rejected.

Trump tells Americans to be patient after Iran war address

2026-04-03

President Donald Trump used his first major address since launching his war in Iran to urge Americans to stay patient and said U.S. military objectives will be completed “shortly.” In the Wednesday evening speech, Trump offered no details on negotiations with Iran, and Democrats criticized his remarks as lacking a clear plan for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Hegseth ousts Army chief, names acting successor amid Iran war

2026-04-03

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has removed the Army’s top uniformed officer and two other generals, the Pentagon said Thursday, as the United States wages war against Iran. Gen. Randy George will retire effective immediately, and Gen. Christopher LaNeve will step in as acting chief of staff. The Pentagon did not give a reason for the departures.

Trump removes Pam Bondi as attorney general, names Todd Blanche acting

2026-04-03

President Donald Trump said Thursday that Pam Bondi is out as attorney general, ending a yearlong tenure marked by sharp infighting over Justice Department independence. Trump named Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche as acting attorney general while three people familiar with the matter told The Associated Press they have discussed Lee Zeldin as a permanent replacement.

UW system president Rothman says regents gave no reasons to quit

2026-04-03

The president of the University of Wisconsin system, Jay Rothman, said regents have told him to resign or be fired, but he has been given no reasons and will not step aside. Rothman told the Associated Press that he has refused to resign in letters to regents, including one to board president Amy Bogost dated March 26.

Fact check: Trump mischaracterizes economy and Iran in prime-time address

2026-04-03

President Donald Trump, addressing the nation Wednesday night, said he had ended Iran’s government and denied that the U.S. was facing inflation, while also discussing energy prices and investments. A review by the Associated Press identified multiple statements Trump made that overstated or misrepresented economic conditions, Iran’s leadership, and the scale of protest deaths in Iran. The fact check comes as U.S. gas prices remain elevated and inflation persists.

North Carolina Supreme Court tosses education funding remedial order

2026-04-03

The North Carolina Supreme Court on Thursday threw out longstanding litigation over education funding, siding with Republicans who argued judges overstepped. In a 4-3 decision, the justices set aside a 2022 ruling that had let a lower court order taxpayer money to address education inequities.

Hegseth says troops could carry personal guns on U.S. military bases

2026-04-03

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Thursday he will allow service members to bring privately owned firearms onto military installations. He said he is signing a memo directing base commanders to allow requests “with the presumption that it is necessary for personal protection,” and that any denial must be explained in detail and in writing.

Honolulu council grills emergency managers over slow North Shore evacuation

2026-04-03

Honolulu City Council members questioned the city’s emergency management response to North Shore flooding, saying evacuation orders came late and updates were unclear. During a Wednesday council meeting, officials defended their decision-making as complicated by monitoring limits and a focus on whether flooding threatened a key dam area. State agriculture leaders, meanwhile, urged lawmakers to pursue quick federal aid for storm-damaged farms, while Gov. Josh Green said he has sought a presidential disaster declaration.

Trump White House ballroom gets final OK after judge's halt order

2026-04-03

President Donald Trump’s White House ballroom won final approval Thursday from the National Capital Planning Commission, days after a federal judge ordered a halt to construction unless Congress allowed what would be the biggest structural change to the White House in more than 70 years, according to the Associated Press. The commission voted 8-1, with two commissioners voting present and one absent, and said the judge’s ruling affected construction activities but not the planning process.

Trump administration appeals ruling blocking Pentagon action vs Anthropic

2026-04-03

The Trump administration is appealing a judge’s order that blocked the Pentagon from taking punitive measures against artificial intelligence company Anthropic over a dispute about military use of AI. Department of Justice attorneys filed a notice of appeal in San Francisco federal court, and the Ninth Circuit set an April 30 deadline for the government to file its arguments.

White House scales back plan to cut CFPB staff, not fully dismantle it

2026-04-03

The Trump administration has scaled back plans to dismantle the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, proposing an agency that would be smaller than under President Joe Biden but also larger than a version Trump initially envisioned. The plan would reduce authorized staff from 1,700 to about 550, and would likely require a federal judge to approve changes amid a lawsuit by the bureau’s employee union.

Asylum seekers face “third-country” deportation orders to unknown nations

2026-04-03

Immigrants seeking asylum in the United States have been ordered deported to so-called “safe third countries” such as Uganda, Honduras and Ecuador, even when they have never lived there, the Associated Press reported. The orders have left some people unable to argue their asylum claims in court, with many also losing permission to work legally while they remain in immigration limbo.

Mississippi lawmakers send bill criminalizing abortion-inducing meds to Gov. Reeves

2026-04-03

Mississippi lawmakers have sent a bill to Republican Gov. Tate Reeves that would criminalize the distribution of abortion-inducing medication in the state, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The legislation adds restrictions on abortion-inducing drugs to a broader drug trafficking bill after lawmakers approved the changes in House and Senate votes Tuesday.

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey released from hospital after lung fluid procedure

2026-04-03

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey was released from a hospital in Montgomery on Thursday after undergoing a procedure to remove fluid pressing against her lung, according to her office. The 81-year-old governor is recovering at the Governor’s Mansion and expects to return to the Capitol office next week.

Belarus lawmakers approve punishments for promoting LGBTQ+ causes

2026-04-03

Belarus’s parliament passed a bill on April 2 that would introduce penalties for people who promote LGBTQ+ causes, echoing Russia’s restrictions. The bill, approved by the upper house after passage in the lower house, will go to President Alexander Lukashenko for his expected signature. The legislation would punish what it describes as “propaganda of homosexual relations, gender charge, refusal to have children and pedophilia” with fines, community labor and up to 15 days in arrest.

Protests target university buildings named for people in Epstein files

2026-04-03

Protests at Ohio State University and Harvard are pressing universities to remove or rename buildings named for people whose names appear in the Epstein files, according to an Associated Press report. The requests cite donors’ relationships with Jeffrey Epstein and say universities cannot separate themselves from those ties, even as they acknowledge no charges have been filed against Les Wexner.

Federal officials arrest 8 in Los Angeles-area Medicare health care fraud

2026-04-03

Federal officials arrested eight people they said were involved in health care fraud schemes totaling $50 million in and around Los Angeles, including alleged hospice-center billings to Medicare for patients who were not terminally ill. Prosecutors said some cases involved alleged referrals and payment arrangements tied to hospice enrollment, as well as at least one case involving forged immigration medical documents.

Leaders call for release of Wisconsin mosque president detained by ICE

2026-04-03

Leaders in Milwaukee on Thursday called for the release of the president of Wisconsin’s largest mosque, saying federal immigration agents detained him because of his criticism of Israel. Salah Sarsour, a Palestinian-born legal permanent resident, was taken into custody Monday by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents after leaving his home, according to the Islamic Society of Milwaukee.

Inspection finds dozens of violations at major ICE camp in Texas

2026-04-03

Federal inspectors found dozens of violations of national detention standards at Camp East Montana, ICE’s largest immigration detention facility in Texas, according to a report released after a three-day inspection in February. The report by ICE’s Office of Detention Oversight, mandated by Congress, documented 49 deficiencies involving issues including the use of force and restraints, security, and medical care.

EPA proposes listing microplastics, pharmaceuticals as drinking-water contaminants

2026-04-03

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed for the first time to include microplastics and pharmaceuticals on a federal list of contaminants in drinking water, a step that could lead to new limits for water utilities. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said the proposal is meant to respond to Americans concerned about plastics and medicines in tap water and is tied to the MAHA agenda promoted by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Newsom orders AI safeguards in California state contracts

2026-04-03

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order requiring California agencies to build AI-related contract standards, guidance, and services, including steps to address risks such as the generation of child sexual abuse material and violations of civil liberties and civil rights laws.

Mahmoud Khalil’s lawyers seek recusal of 3rd Circuit Judge Emil Bove

2026-04-03

Lawyers for deportation defendant Mahmoud Khalil asked Judge Emil Bove to step aside from a U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit panel reviewing an earlier decision that moved the Trump administration closer to detaining and potentially deporting the pro-Palestinian activist.

New laws in Florida and Mississippi require voter citizenship checks

2026-04-03

Governors in Florida and Mississippi signed laws requiring officials to verify voters’ citizenship, drawing immediate court challenges in Florida. The Florida measure requires proof such as a birth certificate, passport or naturalization certificate if a voter’s eligibility is challenged. The Mississippi law takes effect July 1 and adds citizenship checks tied to driver’s license information and annual comparisons with an ICE database, as civil rights advocates warn it could burden eligible voters.

Prediction markets threaten tribal gambling, industry group says

2026-04-03

Tribal leaders meeting at the Indian Gaming Association’s annual convention in San Diego this week criticized prediction markets such as Kalshi and Polymarket, arguing they could undermine the federally regulated space tribal casinos have built in the U.S. David Bean, chairman of the Indian Gaming Association, said the platforms amount to “unlawful gambling dressed up as finance.”

U.S. sues states over efforts to regulate prediction markets

2026-04-03

The federal government sued Connecticut, Arizona and Illinois, challenging those states’ efforts to rein in prediction market operators such as Kalshi and Polymarket, the Associated Press reported Thursday. State regulators have issued cease-and-desist orders and, in Arizona, prosecutors filed criminal charges, while federal regulators argue the Commodity Futures Trading Commission has exclusive oversight.

Supreme Court casts doubt on Trump bid to limit birthright citizenship

2026-04-02

The Supreme Court on Wednesday appeared poised to reject President Donald Trump’s restrictions on birthright citizenship, as justices questioned whether his order violates the Constitution and federal law. The dispute centers on whether children born in the United States to parents who are in the country illegally or temporarily are “subject to the jurisdiction” of the United States. A decision is expected by early summer.

Takeaways from Trump’s Iran-war address: no end date, few new details

2026-04-02

President Donald Trump on Wednesday sought to explain his rationale for the U.S. war against Iran, but his primetime address offered few new specifics at a pivotal moment at home and abroad. The speech did not include his earlier claim that negotiations with Iran were underway, and Trump did not give a definitive end date for the conflict, even as he defended the operation as necessary for American safety and the security of the “free world.”

Trump says U.S. forces will “finish the job” in Iran soon

2026-04-02

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that U.S. forces would “finish the job” in Iran soon, describing the campaign as nearing “core strategic objectives” and promising a new round of attacks over the next two to three weeks. In a prime-time national address that lasted just under 20 minutes, he also repeated that he did not plan to send U.S. ground troops into Iran, while his comments contributed to a jump in oil prices.

DHS head rescinds $100,000 approval rule to ease FEMA spending bottleneck

2026-04-02

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin rescinded a rule requiring Department of Homeland Security expenditures over $100,000 to receive his office’s personal approval, a change that DHS said is aimed at streamlining contracting. The move follows a policy put in place by Mullin’s predecessor, Kristi Noem, that critics said delayed FEMA disaster response and recovery work. DHS said the agency remains constrained by a government shutdown that had reached 47 days by April 1.

GOP leaders announce plan to fully fund Homeland Security shutdown

2026-04-02

House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Wednesday they have a two-track approach to end the Department of Homeland Security shutdown, including a push to fund most of the agency first and later consider separate action for immigration-related units.

Judge rules Trump not immune from civil claims tied to Jan. 6 speech

2026-04-02

A federal judge ruled that President Donald Trump is not immune from civil claims alleging his Jan. 6, 2021, “Stop the Steal” remarks incited the Capitol attack. U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta said the Ellipse rally speech “plausibly” falls outside presidential immunity protection under the First Amendment.

Trump floats NATO exit amid Iran war tensions with Europe over Strait

2026-04-02

U.S. President Donald Trump signaled openness to leaving NATO as he criticized European allies over the Iran war and the Strait of Hormuz, a trade route through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil passes, the Associated Press reported. Trump also warned that countries reliant on the strait “must grab it and cherish it” because the United States would not, while members of Congress and European leaders worked to manage alliance fallout.

King Charles III to deliver address to U.S. Congress in late April

2026-04-02

King Charles III will deliver an address to a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress during a Washington visit in late April, becoming the first British monarch to speak to lawmakers in more than three decades, congressional leaders said. The joint address will mark the 250th anniversary of the United States’ declaring independence from Britain and comes as friction persists over U.S. policy toward European allies and the war in Iran.

Beirut reels from a growing displacement crisis as war rages

2026-04-02

More than 1 million people have fled Israeli strikes and evacuation orders in Lebanon for Beirut, where the influx is overwhelming shelters and pushing families into tent encampments and other makeshift housing as fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues. The United Nations refugee agency in Lebanon said the figure is likely an undercount and warned of an “imminent humanitarian catastrophe.”

Freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson kidnapped in Baghdad, AP reports

2026-04-02

BAGHDAD — American freelance journalist Shelly Kittleson, 49, was kidnapped in Baghdad after being forced into a car by two men, according to AP. Friends and colleagues said she had received a warning about a militia threat and was seeking routes to reach assignments despite having no work at the time. Her mother said Kittleson had sent photos by email as recently as Monday.

Pennsylvania begins indigent defense upgrades with new funding, standards

2026-04-02

Pennsylvania’s first two years of state investment in indigent defense have led county offices to hire new attorneys and support staff and adopt case management systems, according to reports released earlier this year. The funding also supported statewide standards through a new Indigent Defense Advisory Committee, which has submitted those standards to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court for approval. Still, the reports found staffing gaps, turnover and workload pressures that have left the system short of what is needed for adult criminal cases.

Trump sits front row as Supreme Court hears birthright citizenship dispute

2026-04-02

President Donald Trump took a front-row seat in the public seating area at the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday to watch oral arguments over an executive order challenging birthright citizenship, according to the Associated Press. He sat silently with hands in his lap as the justices questioned his administration’s lawyer, and he left during the opposing party’s arguments.

Democrats sue to block Trump executive order restricting mail ballots

2026-04-02

Democrats sued President Donald Trump to block his latest executive order restricting who can vote by mail, arguing the Constitution gives that power to states and Congress. The lawsuit, filed Wednesday, is led by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Democratic National Committee.

Texas judge rejects churches’ bid to endorse political candidates

2026-04-02

A federal judge in Tyler dismissed a lawsuit brought by Texas churches and national Christian groups that sought to allow churches to endorse political candidates without losing their tax-exempt status. The plaintiffs argued the limits of the Johnson Amendment violated their First Amendment rights, but District Judge Cam Barker said he lacked authority to approve a proposed settlement that would halt the law’s enforcement before taxes were at issue.

Maine lawmakers weigh how to use growing home-sale tax for housing

2026-04-02

Maine’s real estate transfer tax, which funds affordable housing initiatives, is projected to rise in the coming years, and lawmakers are now debating whether to steer more of the money toward homeless shelters. The tax rate changed for properties sold after Nov. 1, 2025, expanding revenues as Maine’s home prices climbed, state forecasts show.

Chile’s new President Kast brings openly religious views to changing country

2026-04-02

Chile’s new President José Antonio Kast, who took office March 11, brings openly religious views shaped by his Catholic faith and his membership in the Schoenstatt movement. As he prepares to govern after pledging to crack down on crime and deport immigrants without legal status, advocates for abortion rights and LGBTQ rights say his background could make progress on those issues harder. Supporters say his faith-inspired values give them confidence that the country needs a plan.

Protests target university buildings named for people in Epstein files

2026-04-02

University students and faculty are pressing Ohio State University and Harvard to remove the names of donors who appear in the late financier Jeffrey Epstein’s files, as protests and renaming requests spread to other campuses. At Ohio State, former athletes and union nurses tied to the Wexner Medical Center are seeking removal of Les Wexner’s name from athletic and arts facilities, while Harvard students and faculty are targeting the Leslie H. Wexner Building and the Wexner-Sunshine Lobby. The pressure is part of a broader backlash in higher education over donors and academics scrutinized in recent Epstein-file releases.

Trial reveals secret Venezuela lobbying tied to Trump associates

2026-04-02

In federal court in Miami, lobbyist Brian Ballard testified about what he says were his decisions to cut ties with former Rep. David Rivera after learning in 2020 that Venezuela’s government awarded Rivera a $50 million contract. Ballard, described by prosecutors as a key witness, is testifying in a trial over allegations that Rivera secretly lobbied for Maduro’s government without registering as a foreign agent.

Putin tells Armenia it can’t join EU and the Eurasian Economic Union

2026-04-02

MOSCOW (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin warned Armenia’s government on Wednesday that it cannot simultaneously pursue European Union membership and remain in Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union customs arrangements. In talks with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Moscow, Putin said Russia is “absolutely calm” about Armenia’s efforts to deepen ties with the EU, but argued that it is “impossible” to be in both a customs union with the EU and the Eurasian Economic Union.

US carrier USS Nimitz and destroyer USS Gridley arrive in Panama for exercises

2026-04-02

The U.S. Navy’s aircraft carrier USS Nimitz and the destroyer USS Gridley arrived in Panamanian waters for “Mares del Sur 2026,” a multinational maritime cooperation exercise in the region, the Associated Press reported. The USS Nimitz docked in the Gulf of Panama on Monday, while the USS Gridley anchored the day before in Panama City, according to the report. The ships are scheduled to remain in Panamanian waters through April 2.

Rural Black voters could tip North Carolina races for Democrats

2026-04-02

North Carolina Democrats are zeroing in on rural Black voters in the state’s battleground politics, after Democrats have struggled to mobilize that bloc outside major urban areas. As former Gov. Roy Cooper seeks a U.S. Senate seat in 2026, party leaders and local advocates say turnout in the east—far beyond the Research Triangle—could help determine the outcome.

Claudia Sheinbaum appoints Roberto Velasco as Mexico’s foreign minister

2026-04-02

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum designated Roberto Velasco, a former North America subsecretary and U.S. relations specialist, as the country’s new foreign minister on April 2, replacing Juan Ramón de la Fuente, who requested to step down for health reasons. Velasco’s appointment must be ratified by Mexico’s Senate.

Man sentenced to nearly 4 years in cross burning hoax involving Mobolade

2026-04-02

A man who helped stage a cross burning that prosecutors said was meant to discourage Colorado Springs’ first Black mayor from running was sentenced in federal court to nearly four years in prison. U.S. District Judge Regina Rodriguez said the cross burning and racial slur on a campaign sign harmed Mayor Yemi Mobolade and his family and affected the city’s election.

Advocacy groups push YouTube to crack down on “AI slop” for kids

2026-04-02

Advocacy groups and experts are urging YouTube and its parent companies to better protect children from low-quality artificial-intelligence-generated videos, including on YouTube Kids, in a letter delivered to executives Neal Mohan and Sundar Pichai. The group Fairplay says the current approach fails to label enough AI content and asks for tighter restrictions on what gets recommended to users under 18.

Buffalo refugee death ruled a homicide after Border Patrol drop-off

2026-04-02

Authorities in Erie County, New York, ruled that the death of a nearly blind refugee from Myanmar is a homicide, saying it was caused by complications from a perforated duodenal ulcer precipitated by hypothermia and dehydration. The decision comes nearly a week after Border Patrol agents left him at a doughnut shop in February, according to records and advocates.

California DACA mother reunites with daughter after judge orders return

2026-04-02

A California woman who had lived in the U.S. for 27 years was reunited with her daughter this week after a judge ordered her return following deportation to Mexico in February. Maria de Jesús Estrada Juárez, a 42-year-old DACA recipient, was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after appearing for an immigration hearing and deported the next day.

Italian coast guard finds 19 migrants dead and rescues 58 near Lampedusa

2026-04-02

The Italian coast guard said it found 19 bodies and rescued 58 people after intercepting a dinghy carrying migrants that was in distress about 80 nautical miles from Lampedusa, the Italian island that serves as a major entry point to Europe. The rescue took place Tuesday night in the Libyan search and rescue zone during rough weather, a coast guard spokesperson said.

Judge dismisses lawsuit filed by parents of ‘Cop City’ activist

2026-04-02

A federal judge dismissed a civil rights lawsuit filed by the parents of Manuel Paez Terán, known as “Tortuguita,” who was killed in January 2023 during a raid of a tent camp near an Atlanta police training center site. U.S. District Judge Steven Grimberg said the officers’ use of force was “objectively reasonable” after Paez Terán fired at troopers and ignored orders.

Rubio and Vance differ on Iran war as 2028 GOP jockeying begins

2026-04-01

As President Donald Trump assembled his Cabinet last week, he asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance for an update on the Iran war. The two top officials offered markedly different public postures, with Rubio defending the operation and Vance emphasizing restraint and stressing that Iran should not get a nuclear weapon.

Democrats clash internally over strategy to win back the Senate

2026-04-01

Democrats’ effort to reclaim the U.S. Senate is colliding with disputes inside their own party, as senators split over whether to back establishment candidates or insurgents in several battleground races. In Maine, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has backed Gov. Janet Mills, while some Democrats have endorsed insurgent candidate Graham Platner. Similar tensions are playing out in primaries in Michigan and Minnesota as progressives push for non-establishment choices.

Trump signs order creating national voter list, restricting mail ballots

2026-04-01

President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the creation of a nationwide list of verified eligible voters and seeking to restrict mail-in voting, actions that drew immediate legal threats from state election officials. The White House said the order aims to curb fraud allegations, while Democratic officials and voting-law experts argued it illegally encroaches on states’ constitutional role in running elections.

Doulas’ Medicaid expansion and insurer benefits bring doula care mainstream

2026-04-01

Doulas — non-medical providers who offer physical and emotional support before, during and after birth — are moving from being a luxury to being covered by more insurers and states. A recent Associated Press report describes how more than 30 states now reimburse doulas through Medicaid or are implementing such coverage, and how some private insurers are beginning to do the same.

TMZ and Trump press Congress to return early from DHS shutdown recess

2026-04-01

Congress is facing renewed pressure to cut short its regularly scheduled recess during a partial government shutdown, with the tabloid outlet TMZ posting viral images of lawmakers traveling and President Donald Trump urging leadership to bring lawmakers back. On Wednesday, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Republicans would work to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security. The renewed push comes as lawmakers and their offices weigh whether a Senate-passed funding approach can move quickly through the House.

Judge blocks Trump order to end federal funding for NPR and PBS

2026-04-01

A federal judge has permanently blocked the Trump administration from implementing a directive to end federal funding for National Public Radio and the Public Broadcasting Service, citing First Amendment protections. U.S. District Judge Randolph Moss ruled that the order is unlawful and unenforceable and said the government cannot target speech it disfavors.

Democrats sue to block Trump executive order restricting mail ballots

2026-04-01

Democrats sued President Donald Trump to block his latest executive order restricting who can vote by mail, arguing that the Constitution gives that authority to states and Congress, not the president. The lawsuit was filed by Sen. Chuck Schumer, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, the Democratic National Committee and other Democratic organizations, with Trump and senior administration officials named as defendants.

Bipartisan INSULIN Act would cap insulin at $35 a month for private plans

2026-04-01

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators introduced the INSULIN Act, aiming to cap monthly insulin costs at $35 for Americans with private insurance and to expand more affordable insulin access for uninsured people in 10 states. Advocates and people living with diabetes say out-of-pocket costs can still be hundreds of dollars a month despite insurance. The bill faces congressional hurdles, but its prospects are drawing attention as lawmakers look for health-affordability wins.

Trump plans to attend Supreme Court hearing on birthright citizenship

2026-04-01

President Donald Trump said he plans to attend Wednesday’s U.S. Supreme Court hearing on his bid to limit birthright citizenship. The White House schedule sent to reporters included a stop at the court, where justices will hear Trump’s appeal of a lower-court ruling that struck down an executive order restricting citizenship for some children born in the U.S.

Wisconsin panel dismisses Democratic bid to redraw congressional map

2026-04-01

A three-judge panel in Wisconsin dismissed a lawsuit filed by Democratic voters seeking to redraw the state’s congressional district lines ahead of the November midterm election. The panel said it had “no basis” to find the current congressional map invalid and ruled that only the Wisconsin Supreme Court can decide whether redistricting should be ordered.

Supreme Court rejects Colorado’s ban on “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ kids

2026-04-01

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Tuesday against a Colorado law that banned “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ minors, saying the measure violates free-speech protections. Writing for the court, Justice Neil Gorsuch said the law “censors speech based on viewpoint” and sent the case back to determine whether the statute meets a legal standard that few laws pass.

Judge rules Trump administration's homeless funding changes unlawful

2026-04-01

A federal judge in Rhode Island ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration’s effort to dramatically change the criteria for federal homeless funding is unlawful. Judge Mary McElroy said the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s new Notice of Funding Opportunity violated the Administrative Procedure Act. The ruling orders HUD to scrap the new policy.

Europe faces prolonged high oil and gas prices even if Iran war ends

2026-04-01

The European Union warned Tuesday that oil and gas prices in Europe may stay elevated even if the Iran war ends, with pressure building on fuel supplies and global gas markets. EU energy commissioner Dan Jørgensen said there are no immediate supply shortages across the bloc but that “increasing constraints” are pushing electricity prices higher.

Russian tanker docks in Cuba after U.S. allows passage amid oil blockade

2026-04-01

Cuba’s energy ministry and other officials on Tuesday hailed the arrival of a sanctioned Russian oil tanker in Matanzas as the island battles rolling blackouts and shortages. The Trump administration allowed the shipment to proceed despite an ongoing U.S. energy blockade, AP reported.

Haiti announces austerity steps as Iran war disrupts oil supplies

2026-04-01

Haiti’s government announced new austerity measures on Tuesday, citing disruptions to critical oil supplies and higher global prices linked to the war in Iran. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé said the steps are meant to help the government “anticipate serious repercussions on the already fragile macroeconomic balance and public finances.”

Trump to move Forest Service headquarters from DC to Salt Lake City

2026-04-01

President Donald Trump’s administration plans to move the U.S. Forest Service headquarters out of Washington and into Salt Lake City, the agency announced Tuesday. The overhaul, expected to be completed by summer 2027, also includes shuttering research facilities in 31 states and concentrating research in the West.

Appeals court pauses order to bring Voice of America staff back

2026-04-01

A federal appeals court panel on Tuesday suspended a judge’s order directing the Trump administration to return Voice of America employees from paid leave, court records and filings show. The stay was granted while the government appeals a March 17 ruling, leaving more than 1,000 employees on administrative leave as the case proceeds.

What to expect in Arkansas’ primary runoff elections for secretary of state

2026-04-01

Arkansas Republicans Bryan Norris and Kim Hammer will compete in a primary runoff on Tuesday for the GOP nomination for secretary of state, after neither candidate won a majority in the March 3 primary. The winner will face Democrat Kelly Grappe, who ran unopposed for her party’s nomination.

DHS pauses new immigrant warehouse purchases while reviewing Noem contracts

2026-04-01

The Department of Homeland Security is pausing plans to buy new warehouses to detain immigrants as it scrutinizes contracts signed under former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, a senior DHS official told The Associated Press. The pause comes days after Markwayne Mullin was sworn in as the new secretary, inheriting a detention-expansion plan aimed at increasing bed capacity.

Chile shifts right as President Kast’s religious views draw attention

2026-04-01

Chile’s new President José Antonio Kast has taken office with openly religious views rooted in Catholic groups and a record of opposing abortion and same-sex marriage. Supporters say his faith and values provide confidence, while LGBTQ+ and abortion-rights advocates warn his agenda could make progress harder. The focus on Kast’s religious background comes as Chile remains in a broader regional shift away from Catholic affiliation.

Jurors deadlock in trial of FirstEnergy executives in $60M bribery case

2026-04-01

Jurors in Akron, Ohio, failed to reach a verdict Tuesday in the corruption trial of two fired FirstEnergy Corp. executives charged in connection with an alleged $60 million bribery scheme. The deadlock came after more than eight days of deliberations in the six-week trial of former CEO Chuck Jones and former senior vice president Michael Dowling.

Hearing on extending Zimbabwe president’s term erupts in chaos

2026-04-01

HARARE, Zimbabwe — A parliamentary public hearing on proposed constitutional amendments that could extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s time in office descended into chaos on Tuesday at a sports complex in Harare, the Associated Press reported. Human rights lawyer Doug Coltart was attacked, with his cellphone taken and his glasses broken, as supporters and critics clashed amid broader tensions around the changes.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani ends TikTok ban for NYC government agencies

2026-04-01

Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the city will allow agencies to post on TikTok again after ending a ban that he said was imposed over security concerns. In a Tuesday memo, NYC Cyber Command laid out rules for using the app on separate devices that cannot hold sensitive information or connect to internal email systems. The change follows TikTok’s move to spin off its U.S. operation as part of efforts to address concerns about the app’s parent company, ByteDance.

Tennessee librarian fired for refusing to move LGBTQ books to adult section

2026-04-01

The Rutherford County Library Board in Tennessee fired the county’s library system director, Luanne James, after she refused to comply with the board’s vote to move more than 100 LGBTQ books from children’s shelves to the adult section. The board voted 8-3 on Monday, according to a decision announced after a meeting that included cheers and boos, and James’ attorney read a statement saying the firing was unlawful viewpoint discrimination.

Nevada housing bill money starts flowing to middle-income homebuyers

2026-04-01

Nevada officials say a $133 million state housing bill created an affordable-housing pipeline that is beginning to deliver new homes for middle-income buyers, including some who previously struggled to cover down payments and closing costs. The first projects include Paradise Trails in southeast Las Vegas, whose homes are partly supported through Gov. Joe Lombardo’s 2025 AB540 law.

Sheinbaum dice que fondos venezolanos pueden pagar abogados de Maduro

2026-04-01

La presidenta mexicana Claudia Sheinbaum dijo el lunes que el gobierno venezolano debería poder usar fondos para pagar los honorarios de los abogados del ex presidente Nicolás Maduro en un juicio por narcotráfico en Estados Unidos. Sus comentarios surgen después de que autoridades estadounidenses se negaran a permitir ese pago con recursos del gobierno venezolano.

Iran imprisoned Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi may have had heart attack

2026-04-01

Iran’s imprisoned Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi may have suffered a heart attack, one of her lawyers said Tuesday, after visiting her in Zanjan Prison. Two of Mohammadi’s lawyers and her sister visited her on Sunday and reported that she looked very pale and had lost a lot of weight, according to her French lawyer, Chirinne Ardakani.

Corn tortillas in California must now contain folic acid

2026-04-01

California’s new requirement for folic acid in corn masa flour for tortillas and other products takes effect as state regulators seek to reduce neural tube defects. The measure follows advocacy after a rare birth defect claimed the life of Andrea Lopez’s son, Gabriel Cude, when he was 10 days old. Similar efforts are under way in other states, while critics including Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have challenged fortification in social media posts.

3 fired FBI agents sue to regain jobs after Trump investigation work

2026-04-01

Three FBI agents fired after participating in an investigation related to President Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn his 2020 election defeat have sued to try to get their jobs back, according to a class action filed in federal court in Washington. The agents, Michelle Ball, Jamie Garman and Blaire Toleman, said they were illegally punished for their work and were removed without due process, adding to a broader personnel purge they say has followed the same pattern. The lawsuit names FBI Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi as defendants.

NYC Council member and Hochul aide probed over migrant shelter bribes

2026-04-01

Federal prosecutors are investigating whether New York City Council member Farah Louis and her sister Debbie Louis, an aide to Gov. Kathy Hochul, accepted bribes tied to city funds for a migrant shelter provider, according to a search-warrant copy obtained by The Associated Press. The warrant, signed March 19, also names Edu Hermelyn, the husband of state Assembly member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, who chairs the Brooklyn Democratic Party.

Judge orders Penn to provide records in EEOC antisemitism probe

2026-04-01

A federal judge ordered the University of Pennsylvania to turn over records about Jewish employees to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in an investigation into antisemitic discrimination. The ruling allows employees to refuse participation but says the agency needs the chance to talk directly to potential witnesses. The judge set a May 1 deadline for compliance and limited what Penn must disclose, including not requiring specific employees’ affiliation with a particular Jewish-related organization.

California weighs state-backed insurance for factory-built housing

2026-04-01

California lawmakers are considering a package of bills aimed at speeding up factory-built housing, including a proposal by Assembly members Buffy Wicks and Juan Carrillo to create a state backstop for construction-insurance payouts. The bill would have California take on a role that is unusual for the state, effectively helping sureties and developers manage the financial risk of projects that fail. The legislation is scheduled for its first legislative committee hearing in late April.

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey hospitalized after minor procedure to remove lung fluid

2026-04-01

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey was hospitalized Tuesday in Montgomery, Alabama, after undergoing what her office described as a minor procedure to remove fluid that was pressing on her lung. Her office said she is expected to be monitored at Baptist Medical Center South “in the coming days” out of an abundance of caution.

California moves to fortify corn masa flour with folic acid

2026-04-01

California has become the first U.S. state to require corn masa flour manufacturers to add folic acid, a vitamin linked to preventing neural tube defects, state law says. The measure is aimed at reducing rates that data show are disproportionately high among Hispanic mothers, where some neural-tube defects can be diagnosed only weeks after conception.

FAA cuts SFO arrivals from 54 to 36 an hour as delays loom

2026-04-01

Travelers flying through San Francisco International Airport should expect delays after the Federal Aviation Administration this week cut a third of its arrival rate because of safety concerns and runway construction. The agency said it is also implementing a change to its rule for how aircraft are handled on closely spaced parallel runways.

Florida airport cleared to rename after Trump as library design unveiled

2026-04-01

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill clearing Palm Beach International Airport to be renamed the President Donald J. Trump International Airport, with the rebranding planned for July. The move came days of attention on Trump’s effort to attach his name to institutions, as Trump also posted a video showing digital renderings for a Miami presidential library skyscraper.

Nonpartisan Nevada Forum backed by Andrew Shue aims for bipartisan laws

2026-04-01

The Nevada Forum, a new civic infrastructure nonprofit, is launching with an effort to bring Republicans and Democrats together to identify statewide problems and develop bipartisan legislation, organizers said. Actor and entrepreneur Andrew Shue is behind the effort, which will start by collecting ideas from residents and culminate in a citizen group that could propose legislation for Nevada’s 2027 legislative session.

Swalwell’s lawyers demand FBI halt plan to release old Patel file

2026-04-01

Eric Swalwell’s lawyers sent a cease-and-desist letter to FBI Director Kash Patel demanding he immediately stop any plan to release records from a decade-old FBI investigation involving the California congressman and a suspected Chinese intelligence operative. The attorneys warned Patel that proceeding would violate federal law and Justice Department policy, and asked for a response within three days.

Rubio and Vance differ on Iran war as 2028 GOP jockeying begins

2026-03-31

President Donald Trump asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance for updates on the Iran war as he assembled his Cabinet, and the pair presented markedly different approaches. Rubio defended the war, while Vance said the United States has “options” and emphasized preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. The exchange is occurring as Republicans begin early maneuvering for the next presidential nomination, including in New Hampshire.

Supreme Court hears Trump bid to end birthright citizenship

2026-03-31

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday is hearing arguments over whether President Donald Trump’s executive order can restrict birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to people the order says are in the country illegally or temporarily. The case, which comes from New Hampshire, asks the justices to interpret the 14th Amendment’s Citizenship Clause and an 86-year-old federal law that has long been read to grant citizenship to most U.S.-born children. For an Argentine immigrant mother in Florida, the dispute is personal: she obtained a passport for her son after his birth, but her lawyers helped her speak anonymously about what the order could mean for his status.

Trump says he has ‘no problem’ with Russian tanker aiding Cuba

2026-03-31

President Donald Trump said Sunday night that he has “no problem” with a Russian oil tanker delivering about 730,000 barrels of oil to Cuba, despite U.S. sanctions and a U.S.-led blockade on fuel shipments. Trump made the remarks aboard Air Force One as he flew back to Washington, after a report that the tanker would be allowed to reach the island. Russia’s Transport Ministry said the tanker Anatoly Kolodkin arrived at the Cuban port of Matanzas on Monday.

Israel blocks Catholic leaders’ Palm Sunday Mass at Jerusalem’s Holy Sepulchre

2026-03-31

Israel’s police blocked Catholic Church leaders from entering Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate a private Palm Sunday Mass, prompting criticism from the United States and European leaders. The police said they approved a “limited prayer framework” and cited security concerns tied to the ongoing war with Iran, while church officials called the restriction unreasonable. The incident occurred on Monday as Christians marked Palm Sunday, which begins Holy Week ahead of Easter.

Israel’s Knesset passes death penalty bill for Palestinian attackers

2026-03-31

Israel’s parliament passed a law Monday approving the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of murdering Israelis, a measure condemned by international officials and rights groups as discriminatory and inhumane. The Knesset vote capped a far-right push to escalate punishment for nationalistic offenses, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu came to the chamber to cast the measure’s most visible support.

Airports security lines lengthen in shutdown, travelers turn to Amtrak

2026-03-31

The Associated Press reported that during a federal shutdown, unpaid Transportation Security Administration employees in Atlanta left fewer staff screening travelers and contributed to long waits at the airport. With flights still affected, some travelers looked to alternatives such as Amtrak for longer but more predictable journeys.

TSA says airport bottlenecks ease after officers received backpay

2026-03-31

Airport security lines at U.S. airports eased Monday as Transportation Security Administration officers began receiving backpay for work during the federal government shutdown, a development TSA union officials said is reducing wait times. Checkpoint lines that at times stretched to four hours at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport shrank to waits of 10 minutes or less, the Associated Press reported.

TMZ and Trump urge Congress to end recess amid DHS shutdown pressure

2026-03-31

The celebrity outlet TMZ and President Donald Trump are adding pressure on Congress to return from its regularly scheduled recess during a partial government shutdown. TMZ has posted videos and photos of lawmakers traveling, while Trump and White House officials have pressed congressional leaders to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security.

U.S. senators visit Taiwan, back stalled $40 billion defense budget

2026-03-31

Four U.S. senators visiting Taipei said Monday the United States supports efforts by Taiwan’s government to pass a $40 billion special defense budget that is stalled in the opposition-controlled parliament. The group met with President Lai Ching-te as they began a two-day trip focused on strengthening informal ties ahead of a May summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Gianforte signs Montana bill defining sex as binary for state law

2026-03-31

Gov. Greg Gianforte on Tuesday signed Senate Bill 437, a Montana measure that defines sex as male or female based on a person’s reproductive system and updates the state’s legal definitions of “male,” “female,” “sex” and “gender.” The bill, signed nearly a year after it passed the Legislature, follows earlier versions that were struck down in court.

Israeli military suspends battalion after CNN crew assaulted in West Bank

2026-03-31

The Israeli military suspended the Netzah Yehuda battalion after soldiers assaulted a CNN crew in the Israeli-occupied West Bank last week, the army announced March 30. The move came after footage of the incident went viral, including a chokehold of CNN correspondent Jeremy Diamond’s team. In a statement, the military said the battalion would resume service after a process aimed at reinforcing its professional and ethical foundations.

Cuba to receive sanctioned Russian oil tanker, first delivery this year

2026-03-31

Cuba prepared Monday to receive a sanctioned Russian oil tanker carrying about 730,000 barrels of oil, its first such delivery this year as it struggles under U.S. sanctions. The tanker’s reported position shifted between Russian transport officials and Cuban television before officials said it was approaching the port of Matanzas.

Observers call for violence-free polling after Serbia municipal vote clashes

2026-03-31

International observers at a local election in Serbia said they witnessed violence and irregularities during the vote on Sunday, as President Aleksandar Vucic’s ruling party declared victory in all 10 municipalities. The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe said its observers saw acts of violence outside polling places and “a number of irregularities” including breaches of voting secrecy. Serbian independent monitors also reported clashes and voting irregularities.

Democrat Shawn Harris tries to replace Marjorie Taylor Greene in Georgia

2026-03-31

As early voting begins in Georgia’s 14th District, Democrat Shawn Harris is trying to win a runoff against Republican Clay Fuller for the seat vacated by Marjorie Taylor Greene. The retired Army general and farmer is banking on voter interest that has emerged after Democrats performed better than expected in other special elections.

Supreme Court hears challenge to Trump order limiting birthright citizenship

2026-03-31

The Supreme Court on Wednesday heard arguments in the Trump administration’s appeal of a ruling blocking an executive order that sought to end birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to someone in the country illegally or temporarily. Federal courts have repeatedly blocked the order, and the hearing centers on how to read the Citizenship Clause in the 14th Amendment.

Trump to attend Supreme Court hearing on birthright citizenship

2026-03-31

President Donald Trump plans to attend Wednesday’s U.S. Supreme Court hearing on his bid to limit birthright citizenship, the White House schedule shows. The case asks the court to revive an executive order that said children born to parents in the U.S. illegally or temporarily are not citizens.

US formally reopens embassy in Caracas after relations restored

2026-03-31

The U.S. has formally reopened its embassy in Caracas, Venezuela, resuming full diplomatic operations after the Trump administration removed former President Nicolas Maduro. The State Department said the move began Monday, following more than a month of U.S. diplomats working in Caracas from Colombia.

New York Times says Pentagon flouted judge’s order on reporter access

2026-03-31

WASHINGTON — The New York Times urged a federal judge on Monday to compel the Pentagon to follow an order that blocked a policy limiting reporters’ access to the Defense Department’s headquarters. The Times said the Pentagon implemented a revised “interim” press policy that works around U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman’s March 20 ruling, which the judge said applies to “all regulated parties.” The Pentagon and Justice Department attorneys told the judge that the Defense Department has complied “in good faith” with the order.

Arizona governor vetoes bid to name highway for Charlie Kirk

2026-03-31

Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs vetoed a bill Friday that would have added Charlie Kirk’s name to Loop 202, a highway encircling the Phoenix area. Hobbs said the proposal injected politics into a function she said should stay nonpartisan. State Senate President Warren Petersen, a Republican, argued Hobbs broke with an Arizona tradition of recognizing people who made an impact.

DHS pauses new immigrant warehouse buys as it reviews Noem contracts

2026-03-31

The Department of Homeland Security has paused plans to purchase new warehouses intended to hold immigrants while it reviews contracts signed under former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, a senior DHS official said. The pause comes as Markwayne Mullin was sworn in last week to lead a department that had pushed a major expansion of detention capacity under Noem.

Trial begins over whether Texas prisons need air conditioning to save lives

2026-03-31

Federal court opened a two-week bench trial in Austin on whether Texas prison officials provided insufficient air conditioning, with plaintiffs alleging heat contributed to five inmate deaths. The case follows a March 2025 ruling by U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman calling the lack of air conditioning “plainly unconstitutional” in sweltering conditions, according to court filings.

César Chavez Day rethought as supporters confront abuse allegations

2026-03-31

Supporters of César Chavez on Tuesday wrestled with how to honor his legacy after allegations that he groomed and sexually abused women and young girls surfaced in reporting this month. As states and local governments marked what had long been “César Chavez Day,” some officials moved to rename the holiday or cancel celebrations, while others grappled with whether monuments and public recognition can coexist with the claims.

Filipino and Mexican American farmworkers revisit 1965 strike after abuse claims

2026-03-31

Filipino Americans are rethinking how to mark César Chavez Day and similar events after allegations of sexual abuse by the labor leader, with some states and localities renaming the holiday to Farmworkers Day. The 1965 Delano grape strike — led by Filipino labor leader Larry Itliong and Mexican American organizer organizers — is central to the push to broaden the story beyond Chavez, advocates and historians said.

Georgia bill would allow DNA swabs from immigrants detained on minor charges

2026-03-31

Georgia lawmakers are considering a bill that would require DNA swabs from some immigrants in custody for misdemeanor and felony charges if U.S. immigration authorities issue a detainer. The proposal would apply when Immigration and Customs Enforcement does not pick up the person within 48 hours.

Jurors deadlocked in trial of ex-FirstEnergy officials over $60M bribery

2026-03-31

A jury in Ohio failed to reach a verdict Tuesday in the corruption trial of two fired FirstEnergy Corp. executives charged in a $60 million bribery scheme tied to a proposed $1 billion nuclear bailout, court officials said. The judge declared an impasse after more than eight days of deliberations in the Akron case. Prosecutors have said the bribery included payments connected to the state Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, including the chair-to-be, Sam Randazzo.

Republican Sheriff Chad Bianco pauses 2025 election fraud probe in court fight

2026-03-31

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco said his office has paused the probe into election fraud allegations after legal challenges from California Attorney General Rob Bonta and the UCLA Voting Rights Project. Bianco previously said a Riverside County judge approved the seizure of more than 650,000 ballots from the Nov. 2025 election.

Utah Democrats shift left after redistricting makes House seat winnable

2026-03-31

Utah Democrats seeking a June 23 open primary for a new House district are leaning farther left after redistricting made the seat more competitive. Former Rep. Ben McAdams is campaigning on abortion rights and support for raising the federal minimum wage, while state Sen. Nate Blouin is positioning himself as a more progressive alternative for young voters. The outcome of the primary in the district anchored by Salt Lake City is likely to shape the party’s efforts to regain control of the U.S. House.

Trump Justice Department sues Minnesota over transgender athletes in girls sports

2026-03-31

The Justice Department sued Minnesota and the Minnesota State High School League on Monday, arguing the state violates Title IX by allowing transgender girls to compete in girls’ sports and by requiring girls to face biological males. Attorney General Pam Bondi said the administration is challenging “flawed state policies” that undermine girls, and Minnesota’s Democratic attorney general said the case is a bid for attention.

Suriname’s ex-president Chandrikapersad Santokhi dies at 67

2026-03-31

Suriname’s former President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, who led an investigation into the 1982 “December killings,” has died at 67, according to AP. Suriname President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons confirmed his death in a social media statement, while international leaders and regional partners including the Caribbean Community and Guyana’s president also mourned him.

Spain signs deal on church clergy sex-abuse victim compensation

2026-03-31

Spain’s Catholic bishops and the Spanish government signed paperwork Monday for a new state-involved system to compensate victims of clergy sexual abuse, including cases where offenders have died or crimes are too old to be prosecuted. The deal, effective April 15, creates a one-year window for claims and puts the ombudsman in a final decision role. Archbishop Luis Argüello said the text will not set out compensation amounts in advance, while Justice Minister Félix Bolaños said the process would evaluate cases individually.

OneTaste co-founder sentenced to 9 years in forced labor case

2026-03-31

OneTaste Inc. co-founder Nicole Daedone was sentenced to nine years in federal prison in Brooklyn on Monday in a forced-labor conspiracy case, prosecutors said. A judge said the sex-focused “orgasmic meditation” program exploited vulnerable women. Daedone was also ordered to forfeit $12 million, and seven victims were awarded about $890,000 in restitution, federal prosecutors said.

Mississippi state uncovers KKK artifacts, transfers them to archives

2026-03-31

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety said it discovered rare Ku Klux Klan-related artifacts during an office move, then transferred them to the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. The materials include a handbook, charters, meeting minutes and ledgers, and KKK recruitment propaganda. Officials said processing the collection will take months, while civil rights advocates said the find underscores how recently the Klan operated.

German leader says many Syrians could return home over next three years

2026-03-31

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met Syria’s interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa in Berlin on Monday and raised the prospect that many Syrians living in Germany could return to Syria over the next few years, saying some are needed to help rebuild the country. In remarks to reporters, Merz also said Germany is prioritizing the repatriation of Syrians who have committed crimes.

Chile vows tighter school security after weapons incidents

2026-03-31

President José Antonio Kast said his administration will tighten security at schools after a stabbing left one dead and four wounded, and after a student was detained trying to enter a school with a loaded firearm. Education Minister María Paz Arzola said her office is drafting a bill that would allow teachers to inspect students’ backpacks and that the government will work to expedite metal detectors at schools.

Central African Republic president Touadéra sworn in for third term

2026-03-31

Faustin-Archange Touadéra was sworn in on Monday for a third term as president of the Central African Republic, about three months after a disputed general election. The vote was boycotted by the coalition opposition after a 2023 constitutional referendum removed term limits and extended the presidential term from five to seven years.

Big change for California: No more SBA loans for non-citizens

2026-03-31

California’s small business owners who hold green cards are facing a federal rule change that ends their eligibility for U.S. Small Business Administration loans, and for SBA-backed lending beginning in April. The SBA said the limits are meant to expand access for U.S. citizens, while advocates warn the shift could discourage immigrant entrepreneurs and undercut job creation. The changes apply to green-card holders and to businesses with partial ownership by a lawful permanent resident.

Judge clears way for Interior meeting on Endangered Species Act Gulf exemption

2026-03-31

A federal judge in Washington ruled Friday that the Trump administration can hold a meeting next week to seek a national-security exemption from the Endangered Species Act for expanded Gulf of Mexico oil and gas drilling. District of Columbia Judge Rudolph Contreras rejected a request by the Center for Biological Diversity to pause the Interior Department’s meeting, which the administration says is authorized under a provision tied to national security.

Judge hears challenges to Vermont's climate superfund law

2026-03-31

Vermont defended its 2024 climate superfund law in federal court on Monday, as the Trump administration and industry-backed groups urged a judge to throw out lawsuits challenging the measure. The case centers on whether Vermont can require fossil fuel companies to pay for harms tied to global greenhouse gas emissions and climate impacts in the state.

Mark Sanford files to run again in South Carolina’s 1st District GOP primary

2026-03-31

Mark Sanford filed candidacy paperwork to run in South Carolina’s June 9 Republican primary for the U.S. House seat he has held twice before, the Associated Press reported Monday. Sanford, 65, is a former congressman and governor who served previously in the district and has also made earlier bids for higher office.

Nationwide efforts underway to rebrand César Chavez Day after abuse allegations

2026-03-30

Efforts to rebrand César Chavez Day are unfolding across the United States ahead of March 31 as local leaders and civil rights groups respond to allegations that Chavez sexually abused women and girls in the 1960s. California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a bill Thursday to rename the holiday “Farmworkers Day,” and lawmakers in Minnesota voted to end the state’s Chavez holiday. Communities in places such as Arizona, Colorado and Texas are also changing how they commemorate the labor and civil-rights figure.

Utah Democrats shift left in new House district after redistricting

2026-03-30

Democrats in Utah are competing in a newly drawn House district in which a primary focused on progressive policy contrasts with a former congressman’s past positioning. The race centers on Ben McAdams’ effort to portray himself as moderate in tone while he pledges support for abortion rights and a higher minimum wage. The Democratic National Committee chair, Ken Martin, said the campaign is meant to build support among young voters, as the June open primary approaches.

Chavez supporters wrestle with legacy amid abuse allegations

2026-03-30

Supporters of labor leader César Chavez are grappling this week with how to honor his legacy after allegations of sexual abuse emerged, and with how quickly officials and communities are changing longstanding tributes. The Associated Press reported that states, cities and counties marked what had long been considered César Chavez Day on Tuesday as Farmworkers Day, with some offices closed and many celebrations canceled or renamed. The unease is spreading beyond politics and into personal relationships, as advocates and attorneys weigh what to keep, what to remove, and what to learn.

Georgia bill would allow DNA swabs from immigrants charged with misdemeanors

2026-03-30

A Georgia bill awaiting a final vote would require DNA collection from some immigrants held after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement requests detention for minor offenses. Supporters say the measure would help solve crimes, while critics warn it could expand genetic surveillance tied to immigration status.

Republican sheriff Chad Bianco pauses Riverside 2025 ballot probe amid lawsuits

2026-03-30

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, a Republican and gubernatorial candidate, said his office has paused its probe into election fraud allegations tied to the 2025 election, citing legal challenges. The California Attorney General and a voting rights group have argued Bianco lacks authority over election materials seized in the investigation.

Mongolia’s ruling party nominates Uchral Nyam-Osor as PM candidate

2026-03-30

Mongolia’s ruling Mongolian People’s Party selected a new candidate for prime minister on Sunday after Zandanshatar Gombojav resigned as prime minister after nine months in office. The party chairman, Uchral Nyam-Osor—who also serves as speaker of parliament—was nominated, according to state news agency Montsame.

Arab foreign ministers appoint Nabil Fahmy as Arab League chief

2026-03-30

Arab foreign ministers appointed veteran Egyptian diplomat Nabil Fahmy as the head of the Arab League in a virtual meeting on Sunday, according to the Egyptian Foreign Ministry. Fahmy, a former Egyptian foreign minister, will begin a five-year term in July as Ahmed Aboul Gheit’s term ends. The appointment comes as the Middle East reels from escalating attacks tied to the Iran war.

Europe tightens migration powers, including “return hubs” like Trump-style deals

2026-03-30

The European Union is expanding its ability to track migrants, conduct raids and deport people to “return hubs” in third countries in Africa and elsewhere, a plan that critics say mirrors tactics used by the Trump administration. The EU’s “Pact on Migration and Asylum” is set to go into effect June 12, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

Trump’s conflicting messages sow confusion over Iran war

2026-03-29

President Donald Trump said the United States is winning the war with Iran even as thousands of additional American troops were deployed to the Middle East, the Associated Press reported. In recent weeks, Trump has also criticized other countries for not helping the U.S. and later said he does not need their assistance, according to the report.

Minnesota leads wave of ‘No Kings’ anti-Trump protests across U.S., Europe

2026-03-29

Thousands protested Saturday against the war in Iran and President Donald Trump’s actions, as rallies branded “No Kings” drew crowds across the United States and in Europe. In St. Paul, Minnesota, organizers made the Capitol lawn event their national flagship and featured Bruce Springsteen as headliner.

GOP leaders split as Homeland Security funding deal collapses before shutdown break

2026-03-29

After weeks of negotiations, Senate Republican leaders reached a deal on Homeland Security funding that they expected would reopen the department after a partial shutdown that began in mid-February, but the plan unraveled Friday and exposed a rare rupture between House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune. Johnson called the proposal a “joke,” Republican lawmakers said their chambers would not follow the Senate approach, and Congress was left with no quick path out of the impasse, now scheduled to continue through a two-week spring break.

TSA to get emergency pay, but long lines and ICE presence may persist

2026-03-29

President Donald Trump’s order directing the Department of Homeland Security to pay TSA officers is intended to ease long airport security lines, but major U.S. airports continued urging travelers to arrive hours early on Sunday as immigration officers brought in to help may remain longer. White House border czar Tom Homan said ICE would stay at airports “as long as they need us” until TSA returns to normal operations, while the TSA union leader warned a payment backlogs could still leave officers missing some pay.

President Denis Sassou-N’Guesso wins fifth term with 94.90% vote

2026-03-29

The Republic of Congo’s constitutional court has confirmed President Denis Sassou-N’Guesso’s victory in the March election, granting the 82-year-old leader a fifth term. The court said Sassou-N’Guesso was elected with 94.90% of the vote, after a hearing in Brazzaville.

Trump signs order to pay TSA employees after DHS shutdown fight

2026-03-29

President Donald Trump signed an executive action on Friday to authorize payments to Transportation Security Administration employees after Congress failed to reach a deal to end the Department of Homeland Security shutdown. Trump said the payments were intended to ease long security lines at major airports, while DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin said TSA workers could begin receiving paychecks as early as Monday.

Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon kills three journalists

2026-03-29

Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Saturday killed three journalists covering the Israel-Hezbollah war, TV stations said. Hezbollah said its longtime correspondent Ali Shoeib was killed in the strike, while Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen said reporter Fatima Ftouni and her brother, video journalist Mohammed, were killed in Jezzine.

TSA workers seek permanent fix after shutdown pay uncertainty

2026-03-29

WASHINGTON — TSA agents and other aviation workers are pushing Congress for legislation that would guarantee pay during future government shutdowns, saying repeated funding lapses have left them financially unstable. The call comes as President Donald Trump signed an emergency order instructing the Department of Homeland Security to pay TSA agents immediately, after House Republicans defeated a Senate deal that would have funded parts of DHS. Lawmakers have repeatedly introduced bipartisan bills to protect aviation payroll during shutdowns, but the measures have stalled.

Georgia GOP pushes nonpartisan elections for key Atlanta county offices

2026-03-29

Georgia Republicans advanced a measure to require nonpartisan elections for several local county offices in the state’s five most populous metro Atlanta counties, including the county district attorney in Fulton County. The Republican-majority Georgia House gave final passage on Friday, following Senate approval, with the bill set to take effect in 2028.

Trump interrupts Cabinet meeting on Iran, prices to show off Sharpie pens

2026-03-29

President Donald Trump interrupted a Cabinet meeting discussing the Iran war and concerns tied to prices and markets to tell a story about a custom Sharpie marker, according to a report by the Associated Press. The episode occurred during a Thursday meeting in Washington after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, special envoy Steve Witkoff, Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio gave the President an overview of missile attacks, Iran’s uranium enrichment efforts and risks facing U.S. troops.

Vermont teen Dean Roy seeks first general election governor ballot under 18

2026-03-29

Dean Roy, a 14-year-old from Stowe, Vermont, has qualified as a gubernatorial candidate for the November general election ballot, becoming the first teen to do so under age 18. Roy, who says his campaign aims to spur more young people to join, secured a spot by creating a new political party, the Freedom and Unity party.

Moroccan court jails rapper for criticizing ties with Israel and corruption

2026-03-29

A Moroccan court sentenced rapper Souhaib Qabli, known as L7assal, to eight months in prison for insulting what a judge described as a constitutional body, his attorney said. The case stems from songs critical of Morocco’s 2020 normalization of ties with Israel and of corruption and limits on speech, according to the court ruling and reporting.

Judge orders better attorney access at Florida’s ‘Alligator Alcatraz’

2026-03-29

A federal judge ruled Friday that Florida’s state-run immigration detention facility known as “Alligator Alcatraz” must provide detainees better access to their attorneys. U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell issued a preliminary injunction requiring officials to allow timely, free, confidential, unmonitored, and unrecorded outgoing calls, among other requirements.

Dietary supplement makers press FDA to broaden ingredients to peptides

2026-03-29

Makers of dietary supplements are urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to expand what qualifies as a dietary ingredient, potentially opening the door to more peptide, probiotic and other “trendy wellness” products. The FDA held a public meeting Friday on whether its longstanding dietary-supplement criteria could be broadened to include substances that do not come from food, vitamins, herbs or other traditional ingredients.

2025 Virginias Associated Press Broadcasters Awards winners announced

2026-03-29

The 2025 Virginias Associated Press Broadcasters Awards were announced March 28 at an Awards Luncheon and Annual Membership Meeting in Harrisonburg, Virginia. The contest drew 598 entries from 37 news organizations across Virginia and West Virginia, covering news and sports stories from 2025.

Idaho Legislature passes transgender bathroom ban with jail penalties

2026-03-29

Idaho lawmakers passed a sweeping bill barring transgender people from using bathrooms that match their gender identity, including in privately owned businesses, the Associated Press reported. The bill makes violations a crime punishable by a misdemeanor with up to a year in jail for a first offense and a felony with up to five years for a second offense, AP said. Republican Gov. Brad Little’s signature would determine when the new penalties take effect.

Indonesia begins restricting social media access for children under 16

2026-03-29

Indonesia began implementing a government regulation on Saturday that bans children younger than 16 from accessing major digital platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. The rule targets exposure to pornography, cyberbullying, online scams and addiction, with the government saying compliance will be rolled out gradually. Indonesia’s Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid said there will be “no compromise on compliance,” and described the measure as a step to “save our children.”

Ethics panel finds Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick committed 25 violations

2026-03-28

The House Ethics Committee has found Florida Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick committed 25 ethics violations, a ruling that could add momentum to Republican efforts to expel her from Congress. The panel said it would recommend a punishment in coming weeks after a hearing that stretched into early Friday morning.

Bonta, UCLA group sue to halt Riverside sheriff’s ballot seizure

2026-03-28

California Attorney General Rob Bonta and the UCLA Voting Rights Project filed legal challenges this week seeking to stop a Republican sheriff’s seizure and recount of more than half a million 2025 election ballots in Riverside County. The dispute escalated as Bonta urged the court to act quickly, while Sheriff Chad Bianco said his office’s probe was approved by a judge and said it seized additional boxes of election materials.

GOP Rep. Sam Graves announces retirement, setting up record House turnover

2026-03-28

Republican Rep. Sam Graves of Missouri, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said Friday that he will not seek reelection, joining a widening wave of retirements ahead of November’s midterm elections. Graves, 62, cited making room for the next generation as he filed plans as the candidate filing deadline in Missouri approached.

Missouri judge rules Trump-backed House districts take effect

2026-03-28

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — A Missouri judge ruled Friday that new U.S. House districts backed by President Donald Trump can be used ahead of the November midterm elections, rejecting a challenge brought by referendum petition opponents.

US lawmakers push to suspend federal gas tax as fuel prices rise

2026-03-28

Gas prices in the U.S. have been climbing as the war in Iran affects oil markets, and some lawmakers are pushing to suspend the federal gasoline tax as a way to lower costs for drivers. President Donald Trump said he has “thought about” suspending the federal gas tax, and suggested states consider suspending their own fuel taxes. Sen. Richard Blumenthal and Sen. Mark Kelly have co-sponsored legislation that would suspend the tax through Oct. 1.

Made in America law is causing problems for affordable housing developers

2026-03-28

Affordable housing developers say a federal “Build America, Buy America” rule is slowing construction and raising costs, as U.S. agencies review waivers needed when some building materials aren’t made in the United States. The rule requires many items in federally funded affordable housing projects to be produced domestically, and developers say HUD has approved only a handful of waivers. The delays come as housing remains a key affordability challenge for many renters and nonprofit builders.

Montana to expand eligibility for American Indian college tuition waivers

2026-03-28

Starting July 1, Montana will expand eligibility for an American Indian tuition waiver administered through the Montana University System, dropping a blood-quantum requirement and adding unenrolled “descendants.” The changes could make higher education more affordable for thousands, but some tribal leaders and lawmakers have raised concerns about consultation and the policy’s federal-law backdrop.

California lawmakers vote to audit fusion centers used in immigration policing

2026-03-28

California lawmakers voted to audit the operation of joint intelligence centers known as fusion centers, a move lawmakers and advocates say is aimed at limiting how state and local police share information with federal immigration authorities. The audit was approved Tuesday by the Joint Committee on Legislative Audit, with State Auditor Grant Parks selected to conduct the review.

Helena city commission rescinds immigration limits after Montana AG legal threat

2026-03-28

The Helena city commission voted Thursday to scrap an immigration enforcement resolution that had restricted local police from cooperating with federal immigration authorities, citing legal risk raised by Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen. Commissioners rescinded the January measure in a 4-1 vote, then directed attorneys to redraft the policy and invite the attorney general’s office after public comments and deliberations that lasted more than five hours.

A year after Trump’s DOGE cuts, federal workers question what was saved

2026-03-28

A year after President Donald Trump’s “Department of Government Efficiency,” or DOGE, began cutting federal jobs, employees fired and rehired through a churn of layoffs say they still don’t know whether the effort was worth the disruption. The upheaval included changes at the U.S. Institute of Peace, where about 300 workers were fired, rehired and fired again after a judge and an appeals court took opposing actions.

Vance holds first anti-fraud task force meeting as administration targets benefits

2026-03-28

Vice President JD Vance met Friday with a new anti-fraud task force he is leading, as the Trump administration seeks to show it is cracking down on misuse of federal benefit programs. Speaking ahead of a closed-door meeting in Washington, Vance said the federal government had not taken fraud seriously enough for decades and called for a “whole-government approach.”

Student loan borrowers in SAVE plan told to prepare for repayment

2026-03-28

More than 7 million borrowers enrolled in the Biden-era SAVE repayment plan will begin receiving notices starting Friday instructing them to seek a new plan, the U.S. Department of Education said. Borrowers who had been in forbearance since July 2024 will get 90 days to choose a replacement repayment option after a federal court struck down the SAVE plan earlier this month.

Mexico says government data show signs of life for some missing people

2026-03-28

Mexico’s government said it has identified signs of life for about a third of the country’s roughly 130,000 registered missing people, a report issued as families and search groups renew demands for clearer records. Officials said they found activity in government databases for 40,367 people reported missing, and they said 5,269 have been marked as “found.” The announcement drew swift criticism from search collectives and a human rights group.

Online Tennessee dashboard aims to pinpoint rural counties’ livability needs

2026-03-28

Tennessee launched a new online Livability Indicators Dashboard designed to help policymakers examine county-level factors that affect quality of life in rural areas, researchers at East Tennessee State University said. The dashboard includes data on more than 60 topics, ranging from economic development and housing to health care access and aging-related community support.

What other countries are doing to keep children safe online

2026-03-28

In the wake of U.S. jury verdicts finding social media companies liable for harms to children, AP takes a look at how other countries are limiting young people’s online activities. The U.S. has no federal regulation that, critics say, meaningfully addresses those harms.

Older and younger conservatives at CPAC split over Trump Iran war

2026-03-27

The Conservative Political Action Conference outside Dallas has exposed a generational split among conservatives over President Donald Trump’s strikes against Iran, with younger attendees describing the move as a “betrayal” and older participants saying Trump responded to a long-running threat. The disagreement emerged as CPAC leaders urged unity during a difficult midterm election year for Republicans.

Federal judge blocks Pentagon from labeling Anthropic a supply-chain risk

2026-03-27

A federal judge in San Francisco temporarily blocked the Pentagon from labeling Anthropic as a supply chain risk, siding with the AI company in an emergency dispute with the Trump administration. U.S. District Judge Rita Lin also blocked enforcement of a directive ordering federal agencies to stop using Anthropic and its chatbot Claude.

Lebanon fears another occupation as Israel threatens Gaza-style tactics in south

2026-03-27

BEIRUT, Lebanon — As Israel trades fire with Hezbollah, sends ground troops deeper into Lebanon and calls for mass evacuations in the south, Lebanese officials and residents fear a long-term occupation modeled on Israel’s operations in Gaza. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has hinted at creating a “security zone” reaching as far as the Litani River, while Katz said troops would destroy homes in villages in contact with militants.

Trump to sign order to pay TSA agents as DHS shutdown drags

2026-03-27

President Donald Trump said Thursday he would sign an order directing the Homeland Security secretary to immediately pay Transportation Security Administration agents as Senate negotiations drag on over a Homeland Security funding impasse. The move, announced in a social media post about “Chaos at the Airports,” comes as TSA employees miss paychecks and airport lines lengthen.

Prolonged Iran war could test GOP loyalty to Trump, AP-NORC poll

2026-03-27

A new AP-NORC poll finds that while many Republicans approve of President Donald Trump’s handling of the war in Iran, a prolonged conflict could strain that support in a midterm election year—especially if it turns into a broader U.S. ground involvement or keeps raising gas prices. The survey, conducted March 19-23, also shows Republicans remain highly focused on preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

Treasury plans to put Trump’s signature on new U.S. paper currency

2026-03-27

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Treasury Department said Thursday it plans to put President Donald Trump’s signature on all new U.S. paper currency, a first for a sitting president. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the move is intended to honor the nation’s 250th birthday.

Houston’s Bush Intercontinental Airport hit hard by government shutdown

2026-03-27

Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport has become a symbol of how a partial government shutdown has disrupted U.S. air travel, with TSA security screening causing long delays. The congestion has been most severe at the airport’s main checkpoints, where travelers reported waiting up to four hours while some TSA employees did not report to work.

A year after Trump’s DOGE cuts, workers ask what was saved

2026-03-27

A year after President Donald Trump’s “Department of Government Efficiency,” or DOGE, set off broad federal layoffs and reshaped agencies, many workers who lost jobs and saw their offices disrupted say they still do not know what was saved. In interviews reported by The Associated Press, former staff at the U.S. Institute of Peace described being fired, rehired and fired again, as litigation and court orders left their futures unsettled.

Man arrested in plot to firebomb Palestinian activist's NYC home

2026-03-27

A man accused of planning to firebomb the home of Palestinian activist Nerdeen Kiswani was arrested after a weekslong undercover operation led by the New York City Police Department, authorities said. The alleged plot targeted Kiswani, a longtime pro-Palestinian organizer in Brooklyn who leads protests against Israel and the war in Gaza through Within Our Lifetime.

Springsteen to headline Minnesota “No Kings” protest amid anti-ICE tensions

2026-03-27

Minnesota will host the “No Kings” protest movement’s flagship rally on Saturday, with Bruce Springsteen scheduled to perform “Streets of Minneapolis” at the state Capitol in St. Paul. Organizers said they expect up to 100,000 people at the Capitol complex, amid ongoing anger over President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown and deaths of two residents shot by federal officers. The rally is also expected to draw support from Joan Baez and Jane Fonda, as well as Sen. Bernie Sanders.

Hegseth holds Pentagon Christian worship service amid Iran war

2026-03-27

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth hosted his first monthly Christian worship service at the Pentagon on Wednesday since the Iran war began, staging the event for civilian employees and uniformed personnel in a livestreamed setting. During the service, Hegseth read a prayer asking for “every round” to find its mark and to deliver “overwhelming violence of action against those who deserve no mercy.”

Pennsylvania high court requires individualized sentencing for second-degree murder

2026-03-27

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court on Thursday overturned a rule that automatically sent people convicted of second-degree murder to life without parole. The court said the mandatory penalty violates the state constitution’s ban on cruel punishment when it is imposed without closely examining a defendant’s specific role and culpability. In Derek Lee’s case, the decision orders resentencing and pauses the ruling for four months while the Legislature considers possible remedies.

North Carolina voter ID law upheld by federal judge in bias challenge

2026-03-27

A federal judge in North Carolina upheld the state’s photo voter identification requirement on Thursday, rejecting arguments from civil rights groups that Republicans enacted it with discriminatory intent. U.S. District Judge Loretta Biggs set aside the groups’ claims and ruled the law may continue to be enforced in upcoming elections.

Suburban anti-Trump resistance grows ahead of No Kings protests

2026-03-27

Suburban residents across the United States are increasingly joining No Kings demonstrations planned for this weekend, organizers and participants said, positioning themselves as a front line of anti-Trump political resistance. In northern New Jersey’s affluent communities, activists are also mobilizing ahead of a special election in the state’s 11th District on April 16, where Democrats and Republicans are framing the race as a test of how far politics has shifted. The protests, leaders said, are expected to draw millions nationwide.

Cuba’s Díaz-Canel says Raúl Castro is in early-stage U.S. talks

2026-03-27

Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz-Canel said Wednesday that former President Raúl Castro is involved in talks between the island and the United States, which Díaz-Canel said are in their early stages. The comments came in a videotaped interview with Spanish leftist leader Pablo Iglesias shared by state media.

Ethics panel weighs allegations against Florida congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick

2026-03-27

The House Ethics Committee held a rare public hearing on Thursday into alleged ethics violations by Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick of Florida, as expulsion threats loomed ahead of November elections, the Associated Press reported. The panel planned to issue its judgment after the nearly seven-hour hearing, which followed a yearslong investigation that committee investigators said included “a mountain of evidence.”

GOP bid to repeal Utah’s anti-gerrymandering law fails to reach November ballot

2026-03-27

Utah’s new congressional map will likely stay in place beyond this election cycle after a Republican-led initiative to repeal the state’s anti-gerrymandering law failed to qualify for the November ballot, the Associated Press reported. The state’s congressional districts were reshaped by a judge after a lawsuit found the Legislature violated anti-gerrymandering standards when drawing boundaries after the 2020 census.

Honolulu officials delayed evacuation orders as Oahu’s North Shore flooded

2026-03-27

Honolulu officials did not issue evacuation orders as Oahu’s North Shore flooded in the overnight hours of March 19, according to reporting that reviewed the timeline, weather information and communications used that night. The delays left residents describing sudden, fast-rising water and, in some cases, difficulty reaching help. The city’s emergency management director said he accepts responsibility for how the city managed the flood.

Census data show slower U.S. metro population gains as immigration declines

2026-03-27

The U.S. Census Bureau said population growth slowed in many metro areas in 2025, with the steepest drops in communities along the southern border as immigration declined. In Florida, counties along the Gulf Coast also lost residents after hurricanes in 2024, the agency said in estimates released Thursday.

Appeals court pauses tear gas limits at Portland ICE building

2026-03-27

An appeals court has paused lower-court orders that restricted federal officers’ use of tear gas during protests at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in Portland, Oregon, the Associated Press reported. A three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals granted the Trump administration’s request for temporary administrative stays in two related cases.

Appeals court sides with Trump administration on detaining immigrants without bond

2026-03-27

The U.S. 8th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that immigrants can be detained without bond while their deportation cases proceed, siding with the Trump administration’s position on bond hearings. The decision overturned a Minnesota ruling that had required a bond hearing for Joaquin Herrera Avila, a Mexican national arrested in Minneapolis for lacking documents.

Trump administration investigates race in admissions at 3 medical schools

2026-03-27

The Justice Department opened investigations into how race is considered in admissions at Stanford University’s medical school, Ohio State University and the University of California, San Diego, according to Harmeet Dhillon. The probes seek documents and applicant-level data going back to the incoming class that started in 2019, as the Trump administration expands pressure on universities amid a Supreme Court decision barring affirmative action in admissions.

Spanberger orders Virginia back into ERIC as voting-roll changes tighten

2026-03-27

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger has issued an executive order reversing her predecessor’s decision to leave ERIC, the multistate program that helps states share voter-registration and identification data. Voting-rights advocates said the move and an added 90-day restriction on removing ineligible voters ahead of federal elections are meant to reduce the risk of wrongful disenfranchisement.

Colorado mother celebrates Meta, YouTube verdicts over harms to children

2026-03-27

A Colorado woman whose son died after buying drugs through social media said two verdicts against Meta and YouTube this week show a path to holding companies responsible for harms to children. Kimberly Osterman, speaking Thursday in her home in Colorado, said the rulings validate her push for stronger guardrails as Congress considers the Kids Online Safety Act.

Judge hears Georgia county’s demand for return of seized 2020 ballots

2026-03-27

Attorneys for Fulton County and the Trump administration argued in U.S. District Court in Atlanta on Friday over Fulton County’s demand that the FBI return seized 2020 election ballots and related materials. Fulton County’s lawyer, Abbe Lowell, described the January seizure as “unusual” and said the search-warrant affidavit did not allege a specific crime. Federal prosecutors, including Justice Department criminal division assistant attorney general A. Tysen Duva, said the investigation has a basis and that the government already provided the county with digital copies.

Texas reviewed child-care scholarship spending after Minnesota fraud claims

2026-03-27

Texas reviewed its child-care scholarship spending after allegations of a $110 million fraud scheme in Minnesota, and state agencies found little fraud in Texas, according to a report released in February. Gov. Greg Abbott ordered the review after the Minnesota allegations prompted a broader federal funding freeze in five states. Advocates said they fear tighter oversight could add burdens and squeeze underfunded child-care providers already struggling to serve families.

Trump interrupts Cabinet on Iran, prices to talk Sharpie pens

2026-03-27

President Donald Trump interrupted a Thursday Cabinet meeting focused on the Iran war and financial pressures to tell a long story about custom Sharpie markers used at the White House. The episode included comments about security-line delays at major airports, rising oil prices, and concerns raised by senior officials, before Trump returned the floor to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

Jury finds Instagram and YouTube liable in landmark social media addiction trial

2026-03-27

A jury in Los Angeles found Meta’s Instagram and Google’s YouTube liable in a landmark social media addiction lawsuit, ordering a $375 million penalty. The verdict, delivered after more than 40 hours of deliberations, awarded $3 million in damages to a 20-year-old plaintiff and also included recommendations for punitive damages.

Slovenia says it has confirmed foreign influence on last weekend's election

2026-03-27

Slovenia’s government said its intelligence agency has “unequivocally confirmed foreign influences” related to last weekend’s parliamentary election. The government said evidence gathered in Slovenia and abroad has been handed to prosecutors and police, without naming the alleged foreign entity.

Judge extends order for immigrant attorney access in Minnesota

2026-03-27

A federal judge in Minnesota extended a preliminary injunction requiring U.S. immigration authorities to ensure detained immigrants can contact lawyers quickly after arrest and before being transferred out of state. U.S. District Judge Nancy Brasel said the government had put “obstacle after obstacle” in the way of attorney access and private communication.

Migrants march in southern Mexico to protest processing delays for jobs

2026-03-27

About 500 migrants marched through southern Mexico toward better employment prospects on Wednesday, protesting long waits for paperwork and seeking authorization to move to areas with more jobs while their immigration status is processed, according to the Associated Press.

Video shows Minnesota dad and boy were moved to ICE detention by Delta

2026-03-27

A video obtained by The Associated Press shows 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father being escorted through Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and flown on a Delta Air Lines commercial flight to Texas for Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention. The father, Adrian Conejo Arias, is seeking asylum from Ecuador, and the family’s lawyer said they plan to appeal after an immigration judge denied the asylum request.

Witness describes trauma after federal officers shot Alex Pretti in Minnesota

2026-03-27

A Minneapolis woman who confronted federal immigration officers alongside Alex Pretti in January told a news conference Thursday that she watched agents shoot and kill him and described her own alleged mistreatment afterward. Georgia Savageford, who introduced herself as Wynnie, said she was shoved, tackled, handcuffed, and held at an ICE facility for about 12 hours without being charged. Lawyers also said they have filed complaints seeking potential class-action litigation over allegations of excessive force during protests and monitoring of immigration enforcement in Minnesota.

Michigan officials face questions over secret $261M megasite plan

2026-03-27

Michigan’s Mundy Township spent years amid nondisclosure agreements on a $261 million speculative “megasite” plan aimed at landing a semiconductor factory, an effort residents say left them uninformed while hundreds of homes were acquired and demolished. An AP report, drawing on a Bridge Michigan investigation, describes how lawmakers were told in public meetings the project would involve “some demolition,” while state and local officials say confidentiality was needed to negotiate. The semiconductor deal unraveled after Western Digital spun off Sandisk, leaving the community with cleared land but no factory.

Equal Pay Day highlights gap between men and women’s pay equity views

2026-03-27

Most working women in the United States say they are disadvantaged when it comes to earning competitive wages, while many men disagree, according to a new AP-NORC poll released ahead of Equal Pay Day. The survey also finds employed women are more likely than employed men to describe their pay as a “major” source of stress.

Education Department to relocate to another Washington building

2026-03-27

The U.S. Department of Education will relocate from its headquarters to a smaller Washington office in August as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the agency, officials said Thursday. The Education Department said its headquarters building is about 70% vacant and that the Energy Department will assume the lease. Education Secretary Linda McMahon said the move reduces the federal education footprint, while the union representing department workers criticized it.

César Chavez Day events canceled or renamed amid sexual abuse allegations

2026-03-27

Many events and holidays honoring César Chavez are being canceled or renamed after farmworker labor leader César Chavez faced allegations of sexual abuse of women and girls while he led the United Farm Workers. States and cities are changing how they mark March 31, with officials also shifting to honoring Dolores Huerta, his longtime labor partner. The developments follow revelations that Huerta was among people who said they were abused by Chavez.

Justice Department probes California, Maine over housing transgender women

2026-03-27

The U.S. Justice Department said it is investigating whether California and Maine violate the rights of female inmates by housing transgender women with women in prison. The investigation targets the California Institution for Women in San Bernardino County and the Central California Women’s Facility in Madera County, and the Maine Correctional Center in Windham.

DOJ sues SeaWorld parent over ban on wheeled walkers with seats

2026-03-27

The U.S. Department of Justice sued the parent company of SeaWorld and Busch Gardens theme parks on Thursday, alleging the company’s ban on wheeled walkers with seats violates federal disability civil-rights law. The department asked a federal judge in Orlando to set a jury trial to determine whether United Parks & Resorts must change its policy and pay damages for visitors allegedly blocked since the ban began last November.

EPA temporarily allows wider E15 sales in bid to lower gas prices

2026-03-27

U.S. regulators have approved a temporary expansion of E15—a gasoline blend with higher ethanol content—in warm months, with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency saying the move is intended to help tamp down consumer prices that have risen since the Iran war began. The agency’s action follows years of summer-only waivers for the blend, which has been linked to concerns about worsening smog.

Honolulu man institutionalized after mistaken identity to get $975K

2026-03-27

A Honolulu man who was wrongfully arrested and detained at a Hawai‘i state psychiatric hospital for years due to mistaken identity is set to receive a $975,000 settlement from the City and County of Honolulu, according to a lawsuit described by the Associated Press. Joshua Spriestersbach, who was arrested in 2017 for an outstanding warrant tied to another man named Thomas Castleberry, was later released on Jan. 17, 2020.

Jury finds Meta and YouTube liable in landmark child-safety cases

2026-03-27

A jury in Los Angeles found Meta and YouTube liable for harms to children who used their services, and a jury in New Mexico found Meta knowingly harmed children’s mental health and concealed what it knew about child sexual exploitation. The verdicts, reported by the Associated Press, add to a growing body of court battles over whether social media platforms can be held responsible for features plaintiffs say were designed to be addictive and harmful to young users.

Only some driver’s licenses could be used under SAVE America Act

2026-03-27

The Associated Press fact check says misleading claims about how the SAVE America Act would let voters register using driver’s licenses are spreading as the Senate debates the bill. The AP report says that driver’s-license use would depend on whether a license includes documentary proof of U.S. citizenship, such as enhanced driver’s licenses in certain states.

Private contractor investigates rape allegations at Otay Mesa immigration center

2026-03-27

San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez said her office lacks staff to investigate every allegation at detention facilities, after officials questioned a 2020 memorandum of understanding that appears to delegate sexual-assault investigations at the privately run Otay Mesa facility to CoreCivic. The questions follow a CalMatters and Associated Press investigation that reported at least seven reported sexual assaults at the center in 2025 were not investigated by the sheriff’s office.

Sheinbaum says Mexico will keep Cuban doctors despite U.S. pressure

2026-03-27

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Mexico will continue a bilateral agreement that allows Cuban doctors to work in the country, even as other governments in the Americas have ended similar arrangements amid U.S. pressure. She made the comments on Wednesday in response to questions about whether Mexico would yield to efforts by the Trump administration.

Shot-up windows still in place at CDC headquarters more than 7 months after attack

2026-03-27

More than seven months after an Aug. attack on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters left windows riddled with bullets, the federal government has not yet replaced the damaged “blast-resistant” windows, the agency’s acting chief said March 25. Dr. Jay Bhattacharya told employees that replacement work is under way, with officials saying each window must be custom-made and installation depends on weather.

Spanish woman dies by legal euthanasia in case that drew national attention

2026-03-27

Noelia Castillo, a 25-year-old Spanish woman who sought euthanasia and pursued a prolonged court fight with her family, received life-ending medicine in Barcelona on Thursday, according to the Associated Press. Her case drew national attention in Spain, where the law on euthanasia and medically assisted suicide took effect in 2021. An appeal by her father and a subsequent bid to take the case to the European Court of Human Rights were unsuccessful.

Verdicts against Meta and YouTube raise questions about child safety online

2026-03-27

Two landmark jury verdicts in New Mexico and California have found Meta and YouTube liable in lawsuits brought by officials and individuals who say popular social media and video platforms harm children’s mental health. The awards total $381 million, but both Meta and Google say they plan to appeal, and legal experts say it is unclear how much the rulings will change platform design.

Jury finds Meta and YouTube liable; pediatricians urge parent “talk first”

2026-03-27

A California jury found both Meta and YouTube liable for mental health harms tied to children using their platforms, in what the Associated Press described as the first-of-its-kind lawsuit centered on social media addiction. Pediatric and child mental health experts told AP that the verdict should prompt families to talk with children about what they see online and to tailor phone and app boundaries to each child’s needs.

Generational divide at CPAC underscores fractures over Trump Iran strikes

2026-03-26

Conservatives at the Conservative Political Action Conference near Dallas are split over President Donald Trump’s Iran war, with younger attendees expressing disappointment and older attendees arguing the conflict reflects a long-running threat. At least one participant said the situation feels like “betrayal,” while others said Trump is responding pragmatically to what they described as Iran’s decades-long actions. CPAC leaders acknowledged the disagreement and said the annual straw poll will include a question about it.

Casey Means’ surgeon general nomination stalled as senators question her

2026-03-26

Wellness influencer Dr. Casey Means’ nomination to be U.S. surgeon general is stalled about a month after senators questioned her vaccines and health views during a tense confirmation hearing, deepening uncertainty about her path to a full Senate vote. Senators said they still had questions for Means, while White House and Kennedy-aligned supporters said she has the credentials and message to advance President Donald Trump’s health agenda.

Trump to visit Beijing May 14-15 after delaying trip for Iran war

2026-03-26

President Donald Trump will travel to Beijing on May 14 and 15 for a rescheduled summit with China’s President Xi Jinping, the White House announced. The earlier trip window was pushed back so Trump could remain in Washington as the U.S. and Israel continue the war against Iran, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday.

Poll finds most Americans think US military action against Iran has gone too far

2026-03-26

Most Americans believe recent U.S. military action against Iran has gone too far, according to an AP-NORC poll, and many are worried about affording gasoline. The survey finds President Donald Trump’s approval is largely steady, but opposition to deeper U.S. involvement, including sending ground troops, is widespread.

Lawmaker Asks Judge to Block Trump Name on Kennedy Center

2026-03-26

Rep. Joyce Beatty is asking a federal judge to block efforts to attach President Donald Trump's name to the Kennedy Center. In a motion filed Wednesday, Beatty argues that Congress intended the Kennedy Center to be named solely for President John F. Kennedy.

U.S. eases Belarus sanctions as Trump links move to help for farmers

2026-03-26

The Trump administration on Thursday announced it is easing sanctions on a group of Belarus-linked financial and fertilizer companies, citing improved conditions and closer ties with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko. Treasury said it and the State Department determined that circumstances no longer warrant the prohibitions, while warning the action does not free frozen assets.

Idaho Senate debates bill criminalizing transgender bathroom use in private businesses

2026-03-26

Idaho’s Republican‑controlled Senate is set to vote this week on a sweeping bill that would criminalize transgender people using bathrooms that match their gender identity in any public accommodation, including privately owned businesses. Senate Republican Ben Toews framed the measure as a matter of safety and decency, proposing up to a year in jail for a misdemeanor first offense or up to five years for a felony second offense. Law‑enforcement groups warn the proposal would force officers to visually determine a person’s biological sex, while transgender advocates argue it would bar trans residents from everyday places.

House aviation safety bill gains NTSB support, families urge tougher rules

2026-03-26

A revised House aviation safety bill has received the backing of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), though families of victims from last year's midair collision near Washington, D.C., continue to push for stricter requirements. The bill aims to implement locator systems on aircraft to improve pilot awareness of surrounding air traffic.

Progressives introduce AI data center moratorium bill ahead of safeguards

2026-03-26

Two progressive lawmakers, Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and independent Sen. Bernie Sanders, introduced legislation Wednesday to pause new data centers nationwide until federal safeguards are in place for workers, consumers and the environment, according to the Associated Press. The proposal is unlikely to advance in Congress, but it reflects mounting concern among progressives about data-center growth and artificial intelligence’s energy demands.

Trump envoy John Coale used vulgarity, vodka shots in Belarus talks

2026-03-26

President Donald Trump’s special envoy to Belarus, John Coale, said he used vulgar language and drank vodka during his first meeting with President Alexander Lukashenko while trying to build rapport ahead of efforts to secure the release of political prisoners. Coale, speaking at an event hosted by the McCain Institute, defended what he called “very direct” diplomacy and linked it to hundreds of releases since Trump returned to the White House.

TSA acting head warns some airports may shut as DHS funding fight continues

2026-03-26

The acting head of the Transportation Security Administration warned Congress on Wednesday that the agency may have to shut down operations at some airports if a Homeland Security budget impasse continues. Lisa Mascaro reports that TSA acting head Ha Nguyen McNeill described escalating hardships for unpaid TSA workers, record-length passenger lines, and concerns about security lapses as the dispute entered its 40th day.

Sherrill signs NJ law restricting face coverings for law enforcement

2026-03-26

Democratic Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed legislation in New Jersey on Wednesday limiting face coverings worn by law enforcement, including federal ICE agents, making the state the second this year to enact such a restriction. Sherrill said the measure is part of a package aimed at protecting privacy, rights, and trust between officers and communities, and it also requires officers to present identification before arresting or detaining someone.

Connecticut lawmakers consider legality of plug-in “balcony” solar panels

2026-03-26

Connecticut lawmakers are weighing whether to lift restrictions on installing plug-in, balcony-style solar panels that customers can use without utility approval. The proposal would require the devices meet Connecticut building code and undergo testing and certification before customers connect them. The bill aims to help residents facing high electric bills, while utilities and regulators raise concerns about meter tampering and how excess power would be handled.

Judge questions Pentagon motives for labeling Anthropic a security risk

2026-03-26

A federal judge in San Francisco pressed the Trump administration to explain why it labeled Anthropic, a leading Silicon Valley AI company, a supply-chain security threat after the sides fought over how the technology could be used in war. During a 90-minute hearing Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Rita Lin questioned whether the administration’s actions were tailored to national security concerns, with the judge saying she would seek more evidence before ruling. Anthropic has asked the court for emergency relief to lift what it says is an unjustified stigma and retaliation.

Trump showed classified map on 2022 plane trip, lawmaker says

2026-03-26

Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland released a letter Wednesday that quotes a newly disclosed Justice Department memo describing what federal prosecutors said they found after a June 2022 flight from Washington to Trump’s Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club. Raskin, the top House Judiciary Committee Democrat, said the memo described a classified map prosecutors believed Trump may have shown passengers aboard. The White House disputed the letter’s claims, and Raskin said he is seeking additional information from Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Trump vows bigger GOP majorities for November amid warning signs

2026-03-26

President Donald Trump told Republicans that the GOP will win “bigger majorities” in the House and Senate after the November midterm elections, even as warning signs worry some within his party. The remarks came at the National Republican Congressional Committee’s annual fundraising dinner in Washington, where House Speaker Mike Johnson presented Trump with an “America First” award.

Texas requires proof of legal immigration status for professional licenses

2026-03-26

Texas regulators voted to adopt a rule requiring people applying for professional licenses to provide proof of legal immigration status, with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation set to begin implementing it May 1. Commissioners approved the change unanimously after public comments raised concerns about economic impact and added burdens for immigrants. The rule is tied to federal law, but attorneys and state officials said noncitizens may still qualify for licensure if they meet eligibility criteria under longstanding federal provisions.

Colorado mother celebrates juries’ verdicts against Meta and YouTube

2026-03-26

A Colorado mother whose son died after buying fentanyl-laced pills through social media said this week’s jury verdicts against Meta and YouTube open the door for companies to be held responsible for harms to children. Kimberly Osterman said the verdicts support holding platforms accountable for how they are designed and marketed to young users.

Social media firms await more legal decisions after Meta child-safety verdict

2026-03-26

A New Mexico jury found Meta platforms harmful to children’s mental health and imposed a $375 million penalty, while other social media child-safety cases move through trial and pretrial phases. The New Mexico Attorney General said the case followed investigations that posed as children and documented sexual solicitations and Meta’s responses, and Meta said it will appeal.

Democrat Emily Gregory wins Florida special election in Mar-a-Lago district

2026-03-26

Democrat Emily Gregory won a Florida special election Tuesday, flipping a state legislative seat in a district that includes President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, according to results reported by The Associated Press. Gregory led by 2.4 percentage points, or 797 votes, with almost all ballots counted.

Amid border changes, priest keeps ministering to migrants and deportees

2026-03-26

Texas-based Jesuit Rev. Brian Strassburger says his ministry at the U.S.-Mexico border has shifted as crossings fell under President Donald Trump, but he remains focused on accompanying migrants and people who have been detained or deported. He leads the Del Camino Jesuit Border Ministries, providing Mass and other sacraments in shelters and detention centers on both sides of the border, including in Texas and Mexico.

Bruce Springsteen to lead ‘No Kings’ flagship protest in Minnesota

2026-03-26

Minnesota will host the “No Kings” movement’s flagship rally on Saturday at the state Capitol in St. Paul, headlined by Bruce Springsteen. Organizers said more than 100,000 people could converge on the Capitol complex, where they are protesting President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown and the broader pushback they associate with his consolidation of power.

Democrat Emily Gregory wins Florida special election, Trump-backed opponent loses

2026-03-26

Emily Gregory, a Democrat backed by voters in Palm Beach County, won a Florida special election and will represent District 87 in the state House. Gregory told The Associated Press she would welcome President Donald Trump to contact her in her new role, saying she is focused on local issues including insurance costs, groceries and gas.

Feds press California for records on jet-fuel tax airport spending

2026-03-26

The federal Federal Aviation Administration has asked California’s finance department for detailed records tied to how the state spends jet-fuel taxes intended for airports, escalating scrutiny in a long-running dispute. In a March 5 letter, the FAA said it would take compliance and enforcement actions if California could not demonstrate spending under federal rules.

FEMA to resume $1 billion BRIC resilience grants after court order

2026-03-26

FEMA is reopening applications for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities, or BRIC, grant program after a yearlong hiatus, following a federal court order that required the agency to reverse its cancellation. The Federal Emergency Management Agency said it will make $1 billion available for the program, which funds preparedness projects to help states, local governments, territories and tribes harden infrastructure against disasters.

Judge hears Georgia county demand for return of seized 2020 ballots

2026-03-26

A judge heard arguments Friday in a legal fight over whether the FBI should return seized 2020 election ballots and related materials to Georgia’s Fulton County. Fulton County lawyers argued the January seizure was “unusual” and not supported by probable cause, while federal prosecutors said the Justice Department still needs the physical records for its investigation.

Mexico euthanasia debate grows as activist Samara Martínez seeks decriminalization

2026-03-26

Samara Martínez, a Mexican kidney failure activist, is pushing lawmakers to decriminalize euthanasia as Mexico considers potential changes to federal health law and criminal penalties. The proposal, known as the Transcendence Law, would redefine euthanasia as a legal, voluntary medical procedure for adults, while allowing conscientious objection for health workers.

Montana threatens Helena with lawsuit over immigration “sanctuary” resolution

2026-03-26

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen has threatened to sue Helena after accusing the city of violating a state law that bars municipalities from giving refuge to undocumented immigrants. At a Feb. 11 press conference, Knudsen said Helena’s city council was “thumbing its nose” at the legislature for a January resolution that directs the city police not to assist federal immigration agents. A special meeting is scheduled for March 26 at 5:30 p.m. at the Helena Civic Center, where Helena officials are set to discuss possible changes.

Teens get probation after creating AI-generated fake nude images of classmates

2026-03-26

Two teenage boys who used artificial intelligence to create fake nude images of classmates in Pennsylvania received probation on Wednesday after dozens of victims described the images’ impact on them. Authorities said the boys used school and social media photos from 2023 and 2024 and morphed them with images depicting nudity or sexual activity.

Wisconsin man convicted of fraud for ordering others’ ballots without consent

2026-03-26

A jury in Racine County convicted Wisconsin resident Harry Wait of election fraud and identity theft after prosecutors said he requested ballots for state House Speaker Robin Vos and Racine Mayor Cory Mason without their consent. Wait was found guilty of two misdemeanor election-fraud counts and one felony identity-theft count, and he was acquitted of a second identity-theft count.

Georgia Senate approves bill requiring daily weapons checks in public schools

2026-03-25

Georgia could become the first state to require daily weapons‑detection checks for every student entering a public school. The Senate voted to approve an amended version of a bill sponsored by Republican House Majority Leader Chuck Efstration on March 25, sending the measure to the House and then to Governor Brian Kemp for signature or veto.

Casey Means’ surgeon general nomination stalled as senators question her

2026-03-25

Wellness influencer Dr. Casey Means’ nomination to be U.S. surgeon general has stalled a month after senators from both major parties grilled her on vaccines and other health issues during a confirmation hearing. Senators questioned her experience and her stance on vaccines, and two Republicans on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee said they still had hesitations. The White House and supporters said the process is moving through “productive conversations” with the Senate.

Trump to visit Beijing May 14-15 for Xi summit after Iran-war delay

2026-03-25

President Donald Trump will travel to Beijing for a rescheduled summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping on May 14 and 15, the White House announced Wednesday. The trip was delayed from later this month as the U.S. and Israel continue their war against Iran, and as Washington presses Tehran to accept a ceasefire proposal.

Supreme Court mail-ballot case puts states on edge for November voting

2026-03-25

U.S. Supreme Court justices heard arguments on Monday over whether states can count mail ballots that arrive after Election Day, and election officials said a decision could force last-minute changes to November midterm plans. Nevada’s top elections officer described the need to educate voters well before the vote, while election administrators and advocates warned that tighter deadlines could disrupt already-prepared outreach.

New Mexico jury finds Meta liable for harming children’s mental health

2026-03-25

A New Mexico jury on Tuesday found Meta knowingly harmed children’s mental health and safety through its social media platforms, and concluded the company violated state law. The nearly seven-week trial ended with jurors awarding penalties that prosecutors said were far less than the amount they sought.

Law enforcement to monitor threats to Jewish and Muslim communities

2026-03-25

Law enforcement officials said they are taking steps to monitor and counter threats to Jewish and Muslim communities nationwide, citing a rise in hateful incidents and an attempted terror attack tied to the Israel-Hamas war. The efforts include security changes at places of worship and investigations into extremist activity after incidents involving a Michigan synagogue and violence elsewhere in the U.S.

US prepares to deploy at least 1,000 82nd Airborne troops to Mideast

2026-03-25

The U.S. military is preparing to deploy at least 1,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East in the coming days, according to three people familiar with the plans. The deployment is expected to include a battalion from the division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team and the division commander, Maj. Gen. Brandon Tegtmeier, the people said.

Missouri Supreme Court upholds Trump-backed mid-decade congressional map

2026-03-25

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri Supreme Court upheld a mid-decade congressional redistricting plan backed by President Donald Trump, a ruling that gives Republicans a better path to winning an additional U.S. House seat in the November midterms, according to the Associated Press. Opponents filed a referendum effort after the decision, and other lawsuits are still pending, leaving uncertainty about whether the new map will ultimately take effect.

Senate confirms Colin McDonald to lead DOJ fraud division nationwide

2026-03-25

The Senate confirmed Colin McDonald, a veteran federal prosecutor, to lead a new Justice Department division focused on prosecuting fraud nationwide. The vote was 52-47 on Tuesday, despite critics raising concerns about the White House’s influence over investigations and prosecutions.

Phil Berger concedes North Carolina legislative primary to Sam Page

2026-03-25

North Carolina Senate leader Phil Berger conceded his Republican primary to Sheriff Sam Page on Tuesday, following a hand recount that showed no change in Page’s narrow lead. Berger, the state’s top conservative architect for more than a decade, will now be replaced on the ticket for the Nov. general election in the 26th Senate District.

Senators consider deal to fund Homeland Security but not ICE enforcement

2026-03-25

Travel disruptions at major U.S. airports deepened Tuesday as senators raced to salvage a proposal to end the Homeland Security shutdown by funding much of the department, while excluding key immigration enforcement and removal functions at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Supreme Court hears bid to revive border asylum “metering” policy

2026-03-25

The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday weighed whether the Trump administration can revive an immigration policy known as “metering,” which limits asylum access at the U.S.-Mexico border. The dispute centers on whether the Immigration and Nationality Act’s requirement that asylum applicants “arrive in” the United States applies to migrants stopped on the Mexico side of the border. The court heard arguments from the Justice Department and from advocates including the American Immigration Council.

Trump lists five Iran war objectives, but some remain unfulfilled as he hints at winding down

2026-03-25

President Donald Trump outlined five objectives for the U.S. to achieve as it winds down its war with Iran, but some remain undefined or appear unfulfilled, an Associated Press analysis says. The list, which expanded from earlier goal sets, includes degrading Iran’s missile capability, dismantling its defense industry, eliminating its navy and air force, preventing nuclear capability, and protecting Middle Eastern allies.

Trump promises bigger GOP majorities as warning signs flash for party

2026-03-25

President Donald Trump predicted Wednesday that Republicans would win larger congressional majorities after November’s midterm elections, even as some party figures voiced concerns about the war in Iran and affordability pressures. Speaking at the National Republican Congressional Committee’s annual fundraising dinner in Washington, Trump faced fresh political headwinds after a Democrat won a Florida special election that includes his Mar-a-Lago estate. The remarks came amid a partial federal government shutdown that has disrupted airport operations for weeks.

Trump showed classified map on 2022 plane trip, Raskin letter says

2026-03-25

President Donald Trump showed a classified map to people aboard a 2022 flight to his New Jersey golf club, according to a letter from Rep. Jamie Raskin to Attorney General Pam Bondi released Wednesday. Raskin said the allegations come from a January 2023 Department of Justice memo prosecutors wrote as they pursued a felony indictment in the special counsel’s classified documents investigation. The White House denied the claims, saying Raskin lacks credibility.

TSA acting head warns of possible airport shutdowns as DHS fight drags

2026-03-25

TSA acting head Ha Nguyen McNeill warned lawmakers Wednesday that the Transportation Security Administration may have to shut down airport operations if a Homeland Security budget impasse continues. She testified that unpaid TSA workers are facing bills, eviction notices and even selling plasma, as wait times and staffing shortfalls grow amid Congress’s standoff over DHS funding and immigration enforcement.

Consumers Energy asks FERC to delay Hardy Dam spillway work amid sale

2026-03-25

Consumers Energy has asked federal regulators to delay a planned $350 million spillway replacement at Hardy Dam in Michigan while the company pursues the sale of the dam and 12 others to a private equity-backed operator. In a filing dated March 16, the utility requested a delay of about two years, pushing construction start to Dec. 31, 2028.

California sues Trump to keep shut oil pipeline on Santa Barbara coast

2026-03-25

California sued the Trump administration Monday in federal court to block what state officials call an emergency order that would restart a long-shut offshore oil pipeline on the Santa Barbara coast. The state says the March 13 order by U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright overreaches under the Defense Production Act, while the Trump administration has sought to force the restart of the system owned by Sable Offshore Corp.

Minnesota officials sue Trump administration over federal shooting deaths

2026-03-25

Minnesota officials sued the Trump administration on Tuesday, seeking court-ordered access to evidence they say they need to independently investigate three shootings by federal officers, including the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, and a separate shooting that left Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis wounded.

Trump administration pays TotalEnergies to exit U.S. offshore wind leases

2026-03-25

The U.S. Interior Department said TotalEnergies will receive about $1 billion to walk away from offshore wind leases off the coasts of North Carolina and New York, with the company saying the refunded money will instead fund liquefied natural gas and other fossil fuel projects. Democrats and environmental groups criticized the payment as a misuse of taxpayer dollars amid recent court rulings blocking the administration’s broader efforts to halt offshore wind.

Connecticut lawmakers consider lifting limits on plug-in solar panels

2026-03-25

Connecticut lawmakers are weighing whether to allow customers to install portable, plug-in solar panels without getting approval from their local electric utility, as interest grows amid high electric bills. The proposal, contained in House Bill 5340, would permit devices up to 1,200 watts if they meet safety and consumer-protection requirements.

Judge questions Pentagon’s motives in spat over Anthropic security-risk label

2026-03-25

Federal judge Rita Lin questioned the Pentagon’s reasons for labeling Anthropic a security threat during a 90-minute hearing in San Francisco on Tuesday, as the company seeks emergency court relief to remove what it says is an unjustified stigma. Lin said she was troubled the government’s actions did not appear tailored to national security concerns, according to the Associated Press.

Montana administration reverses weekend rally permit guidelines for Capitol

2026-03-25

The Montana Department of Administration has reversed its guidelines that had prohibited permits for weekend rallies at the state Capitol, according to the General Services Division website. The change follows public pushback and a commitment by Department of Administration Director Misty Ann Giles to revisit the rule after initially dismissing the dispute as “no big deal.”

USC cancels California governor debate after candidates cite bias concerns

2026-03-25

USC canceled a gubernatorial debate planned for Tuesday after candidates of color who said they were excluded accused the university of discrimination. The planned debate would have included Republicans Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco and Democrats Tom Steyer, Katie Porter, Eric Swalwell and Matt Mahan, but excluded Antonio Villara-gosa, Xavier Becerra, Betty Yee and Tony Thurmond.

Social media firms await more legal decisions after New Mexico Meta verdict

2026-03-25

A jury in New Mexico found Meta platforms harmful to children’s mental health and imposed a $375 million penalty, the first verdict in this year’s wave of child safety lawsuits targeting social media companies. The decision came after a nearly seven-week trial over allegations that Meta violated state consumer protection law and engaged in misleading and “unconscionable” practices related to child sexual exploitation and mental health harms.

NAACP names Kristen Clarke as new legal advocacy leader

2026-03-25

The NAACP has hired ex-Justice Department civil rights chief Kristen Clarke to lead its legal advocacy as general counsel, the organization announced March 25. Clarke will oversee the NAACP’s legal strategy and operations and lead litigation efforts on voter access, gerrymandering and the First Amendment, among other civil-rights and social-justice issues.

Jesuit priest continues to minister to migrants and deportees as border crossings plunge

2026-03-25

Rev. Brian Strassburger, the head of Del Camino Jesuit Border Ministries, has kept celebrating Mass and offering sacraments to migrants in Texas shelters and to detainees and deportees on both sides of the U.S.–Mexico border. His work has spanned the era of record‑breaking crossings under the Biden administration and the sharp decline that followed President Donald Trump’s 2025 immigration emergency declaration. Strassburger says his ministry embodies the Christian promise that “God is accompanying you on your journey,” even as asylum‑seeker numbers shrank dramatically.

Democrat Emily Gregory wins Florida special election tied to Mar-a-Lago

2026-03-25

Democrat Emily Gregory won a Florida special election Tuesday, flipping a state legislative seat in a district that includes President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. Republicans had previously held the seat until Mike Caruso resigned to become Palm Beach County clerk, setting up the vacancy.

FAA scrutinizes California jet-fuel tax use for airport funding

2026-03-25

The Federal Aviation Administration is seeking detailed records from California on how the state spends jet-fuel tax revenue for airports, according to a letter sent March 5. The dispute, which has stretched for more than a decade, centers on whether California is using the money in line with federal rules that require states to maintain airport infrastructure.

FDA warns ImmunityBio over Anktiva cancer claims made by Soon-Shiong

2026-03-25

Federal health officials on Tuesday issued a warning letter to ImmunityBio after challenging what they said were misleading marketing claims about Anktiva, including comments by biotech billionaire Patrick Soon-Shiong on a podcast. The FDA said the statements promoted uses beyond the bladder-cancer indication and portrayed the drug as a “cancer vaccine” without required risk and side-effect information.

Georgia judge sets $1 murder bond for woman accused in abortion pills

2026-03-25

A Georgia judge on Monday set a $1 bond for a murder charge faced by Alexia Moore, who is accused by police of taking pills to induce an illegal abortion. Superior Court Judge Steven Blackerby said during the bond hearing the charge was “extremely problematic” and would be “a hard charge to convict upon.” Police arrested Moore earlier this month after an arrest warrant described a second-trimester pregnancy and a fetus that survived about an hour after delivery.

Texas commission adopts rule requiring proof of legal immigration status for licenses

2026-03-25

Texas will require many people seeking professional licenses to prove they are in the country legally, after the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation approved a rule change on Tuesday. The move, set for implementation May 1, would affect licensing across multiple industries that require state authorization, while officials said noncitizens may still qualify under federal exceptions.

Wisconsin man convicted for requesting officials’ ballots without consent

2026-03-25

A jury in Racine County, Wisconsin, convicted Harry Wait of election fraud and identity theft for requesting absentee ballots from Republican state Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Democratic Mayor Cory Mason without their consent. Jurors found Wait guilty of two misdemeanor election fraud charges and a felony identity theft charge after a two-day trial. A sentencing date has not been set, and his attorney did not respond to an inquiry about whether he plans to appeal.

Supreme Court mail ballot case could force states to redo election plans

2026-03-24

As the U.S. Supreme Court considers whether states can count mail ballots that arrive after Election Day, several election officials and voting-rights advocates say shifting mail ballot deadlines could disrupt how November midterm elections are run. Nevada Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar said his office is preparing for a potential change this June, including figuring out how to inform voters on short notice.

Conservatives gather for CPAC with right divided over Iran war

2026-03-24

Conservatives are gathering this week near Dallas for CPAC, where division on the right over the U.S. military action in Iran is expected to surface amid pressure for President Donald Trump and Republicans heading toward midterm elections. The conference opens Wednesday at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center with more than 80 speakers scheduled, including figures such as Steve Bannon and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, who have taken differing views on the war.

Pentagon to remove media offices after judge reinstates Times credentials

2026-03-24

The Pentagon will close the “Correspondents’ Corridor,” a long-used media area in the building, after a federal judge ordered it to reinstate press credentials for New York Times reporters, a department official said Monday. The changes will also remove Pentagon media offices, U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman said last week he found the credentialing policy sought to limit access to “disfavored journalists,” a ruling the department said it plans to appeal.

New Mexico jury finds Meta knowingly harmed children, to face May phase

2026-03-24

A New Mexico jury found Tuesday that Meta knowingly harmed children’s mental health and safety and violated state law, issuing a verdict that signals a widening willingness to pursue tech companies for harms to minors. The decision caps nearly seven weeks of trial, though a May phase will determine whether Meta’s platforms created a public nuisance and what programs the company would fund.

Mullin Confirmed as Homeland Security Secretary Amid TSA Funding Impasse

2026-03-24

The Senate confirmed Markwayne Mullin as the new Homeland Security Secretary on Monday, as a funding standoff continues to cause airport security delays. Mullin, a Republican senator from Oklahoma, takes over the department after Kristi Noem's departure following a backlash over immigration enforcement policies.

ICE officers appear at TSA checkpoints during partial DHS shutdown

2026-03-24

Armed Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers in tactical gear were seen Monday at TSA security checkpoints at multiple major U.S. airports, after President Donald Trump ordered their deployment during a partial government shutdown that has disrupted air travel. The AP reported observations at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International, John F. Kennedy International, Newark Liberty International, George Bush Intercontinental and Louis Armstrong International, while other airports confirmed ICE would be on-site.

Judge says DOJ had “essentially zero evidence” against Fed chair Powell

2026-03-24

A federal judge quashed subpoenas tied to a Justice Department investigation of a $2.5 billion Federal Reserve renovation, after a prosecutor privately conceded in a sealed hearing that he lacked evidence of a crime involving Chair Jerome Powell. Chief Judge James Boasberg said prosecutors had produced “essentially zero evidence” and their justification for the subpoenas was “thin and unsubstantiated.”

EU and Australia finalize free trade pact, add defense and Horizon talks

2026-03-24

The European Union and Australia agreed on the final text of a free trade agreement and signed it at Australia’s Parliament House on Tuesday, nearly two years after negotiations resumed. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the deal removes tariffs on key Australian exports including wine, seafood and horticulture, and opens quotas for Australian red meat.

Senators near deal to fund Homeland Security but leave ICE enforcement unfunded

2026-03-24

Travel disruptions worsened Tuesday as senators raced to salvage a proposal to end the Homeland Security shutdown by funding much of the department, including airport workers who have been going without pay. Under the emerging plan discussed with the White House, lawmakers would fund most of the department but not the immigration enforcement and removal operations that have been central to the dispute. The talks intensified as long airport security lines stretched in cities including Houston, Atlanta and the Baltimore/Washington area, and the Transportation Security Administration faced large call-out rates.

Phil Berger concedes North Carolina legislative primary to Sam Page

2026-03-24

North Carolina Senate leader Phil Berger conceded the Republican primary for his seat Tuesday, losing to Sam Page in the 26th Senate District. Berger, a conservative architect who has led the chamber since 2011, said in a release that “the voters have spoken,” and Page will face Democrat Steve Luking in November.

Missouri Supreme Court upholds mid-decade congressional redistricting urged by Trump

2026-03-24

The Missouri Supreme Court upheld a mid-decade congressional redistricting plan on March 24, a decision that gives Republicans a better chance of winning an additional U.S. House seat in this year’s midterm elections. Opponents have filed more than 300,000 petition signatures seeking a statewide vote on the map, and the new districts could still face further court challenges.

Rubio to pitch Iran-war strategy to skeptical G7 allies near Versailles

2026-03-24

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to France this week to brief G7 foreign ministers on the U.S. strategy for the Iran war, the State Department said. Rubio will attend a G7 meeting near Versailles outside Paris on Friday, where officials are expected to discuss broader security concerns including the Russia-Ukraine war and threats in the Middle East.

Senate confirms Colin McDonald to lead DOJ’s new fraud enforcement division

2026-03-24

The Senate confirmed Colin McDonald, a veteran federal prosecutor, to lead a new Justice Department division focused on prosecuting fraud nationwide, according to an Associated Press report. The vote was 52-47, with critics raising concerns about how the effort could be influenced by politics as the White House seeks a larger role in shaping the unit’s priorities.

Supreme Court weighs Trump administration’s bid to revive asylum metering

2026-03-24

The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday on whether the Trump administration can revive a restrictive asylum policy known as “metering,” which has been used to turn back migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border. Conservative justices appeared receptive to the Justice Department’s request to overturn a lower-court ruling against the practice, while others questioned how it would affect people who enter illegally versus those seeking legal entry.

Trump voted by mail in Florida special election as he pushes Congress to curb it

2026-03-24

President Donald Trump voted by mail in Florida’s March 24 special election for state legislative seats, according to Palm Beach County voter records cited by the Associated Press. While continuing to criticize mail ballots as fraud-prone, Trump has urged Congress to pass the SAVE America Act, which would bar universal mail voting and limit mail ballots to certain voters.

US prepares to send at least 1,000 82nd Airborne troops to Middle East

2026-03-24

The U.S. military is preparing to deploy at least 1,000 troops from the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East in the coming days, according to three people familiar with the plans. The deployment would include a battalion from the 1st Brigade Combat Team and the division commander, Maj. Gen. Brandon Tegtmeier, the people said.

Trump says U.S. and Iran are in talks; Iran denies White House talks

2026-03-24

President Donald Trump said in a social media post that the United States could soon wind down operations with Iran, citing “very good” talks over the weekend. Iranian officials quickly rejected the idea of any high-level communications with the White House, saying the message was aimed at manipulating energy and financial markets.

Trump’s Ormuz Strait shift sparks scrutiny of U.S. war planning

2026-03-24

President Donald Trump has issued a new ultimatum to Iran over the Strait of Hormuz, warning the United States would “annihilate” Iran’s power facilities if the strait is not reopened within 48 hours, a move critics say signals inadequate planning for a crisis that has already escalated. The Associated Press reports that Trump’s approach has shifted repeatedly over about a week, moving from calls for diplomatic security of the sea route to sanctions and then threats aimed at civilian energy infrastructure. A U.S. legal expert and Democratic senators said the language and target set raise serious war-law concerns.

Kim Jong Un vows to cement North Korea’s nuclear status, warns Seoul

2026-03-24

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vowed to “irreversibly” cement his country’s status as a nuclear power and to maintain a hard line toward South Korea, which he called the “most hostile” state, according to North Korean state media on March 24. Speaking to Pyongyang’s rubber-stamp parliament on Monday, Kim accused the United States of global “state terrorism and aggression” and described a more forceful posture in a united front against Washington.

Kim Yo Jong says summit with Japan is off unless Tokyo changes stance

2026-03-24

North Korea’s Kim Yo Jong said Monday that a summit between her brother, Kim Jong Un, and Japan’s prime minister will not happen unless Tokyo breaks from what she called “anachronistic” ways. The remarks came after Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told reporters last week that she had pressed U.S. President Donald Trump for support for a meeting in Washington.

US deploys Reaper drones to Nigeria after troops sent for intelligence

2026-03-24

The United States has deployed MQ-9 “Reaper” drones to Nigeria to support the country’s military with intelligence and training, a U.S. defense official said. The drones are being based at Bauchi Airfield in the northeast, after 200 U.S. troops arrived last month to provide training and intelligence support, according to AFRICOM.

Trump says Iran is eager for a deal, extends deadline for Hormuz

2026-03-24

President Donald Trump said the U.S. is talking with an Iranian leader and that Iran is eager to reach a deal to end the war, as he extended a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He told reporters the U.S. has not talked with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, and said the envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held talks Sunday. Iran’s parliament speaker denied talks had taken place.

Can ICE ease long lines at airports as DHS funding impasse drags on?

2026-03-24

ICE officers have been deployed to select U.S. airports to help mitigate long security lines fueled by staffing shortfalls tied to a partial government shutdown, according to a report released by the Associated Press. The move comes as President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda places ICE at the center of enforcement, raising questions about how effectively ICE can assist with aviation-related screening and crowd control.

Supreme Court questions counting late mail ballots in election dispute

2026-03-24

The Supreme Court sounded skeptical Monday of state laws that allow election officials to count some mail ballots arriving after Election Day, a target of President Donald Trump. The justices heard arguments in a case from Mississippi that asks whether federal law sets a single Election Day deadline that requires ballots to be both cast and received.

Supreme Court rejects appeal by Texas citizen journalist Priscilla Villarreal

2026-03-24

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to revive a lawsuit by Texas-based citizen journalist Priscilla Villarreal, known online as “La Gordiloca,” over her arrest in a case that drew national attention. The justices left in place a divided ruling from the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals holding that Villarreal could not sue police officers and other officials over her arrest for seeking and obtaining nonpublic police information.

Trump detours to Graceland in Memphis amid Iran war and airport turmoil

2026-03-24

President Donald Trump visited Elvis Presley’s Graceland in Memphis during a Monday stop tied to U.S. efforts on Iran and to long lines at airports, the Associated Press reported. While at a local roundtable on crime, Trump said, “I love Elvis,” and later toured the home, where he examined items tied to Presley and asked whether he could have beaten Elvis in a fight.

Consumers seeks to delay flood control upgrades as it pursues dam sales

2026-03-24

Consumers Energy is asking federal regulators to delay a $350 million spillway replacement at Hardy Dam in Michigan to Dec. 31, 2028, as the utility pursues selling the dam and 12 others to a private equity-backed operator. In a filing with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the company said the work is “neither feasible nor prudent” until regulatory approvals for the sale are complete. Critics and some advocates said the delay could increase flood risk for downstream communities.

Trump administration pays TotalEnergies to exit offshore wind, boosting LNG

2026-03-24

The Interior Department said TotalEnergies agreed to refund leases for offshore wind projects off North Carolina and New York, and will invest the money in liquefied natural gas exports in Texas instead. Supporters called the plan a novel way to halt offshore wind after court setbacks, while Democrats and environmental groups criticized it as a misuse of taxpayer dollars.

Trump administration bans import of new foreign-made routers over security risks

2026-03-24

The Trump administration has banned imports of new foreign-made routers, the Federal Communications Commission said, citing supply-chain vulnerabilities and cybersecurity risks. The updated restrictions target consumer-grade routers that connect home computers and smart devices to the internet, the FCC said.

California sues Trump to keep shut Santa Barbara oil pipeline

2026-03-24

California sued the Trump administration in federal court to block what it calls an emergency order to restart a long-shut offshore oil pipeline on the Santa Barbara coast. The state argues the order oversteps U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright’s authority under the Defense Production Act and conflicts with state law and a federal consent decree requiring state fire-marshall approval.

Trump administration places Columbus statue replica near White House

2026-03-24

A statue of Christopher Columbus has been placed on the grounds of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building adjacent to the White House, the Associated Press reported on March 23, as President Donald Trump’s administration renews its effort to recognize the explorer. The administration and its allies have promoted Columbus as a hero, while critics point to his role in European conquest of the Americas and exploitation of Native peoples.

USC cancels California governor debate after candidates of color allege bias

2026-03-24

USC canceled a gubernatorial debate planned for Tuesday in California after candidates of color said the university’s selection criteria discriminated against them, according to The Associated Press. The debate was to include several mostly white candidates who met the standards, but excluded Antonio Villaraigosa, Xavier Becerra, Betty Yee and Tony Thurmond, the AP reported. USC later reversed course Monday night, saying debate co-hosts could not agree on a solution, AP said.

Judge questions Pentagon’s motives for labeling Anthropic a security threat

2026-03-24

U.S. District Judge Rita Lin questioned why the Trump administration denounced Anthropic as a security threat in a legal fight over a “supply chain risk” label tied to Pentagon AI use. During a hearing Tuesday in San Francisco, Lin pressed both sides on whether the government’s actions matched its stated national-security concerns. She did not issue an emergency ruling, instead asking attorneys to file additional evidence by Wednesday and indicating she would decide before the end of the week.

Montana reverses ban on most weekend Capitol rallies after review

2026-03-24

Montana’s Department of Administration reversed guidelines that had restricted permits for most weekend rallies at the state Capitol, allowing organizers to seek approval for Saturday events. The change followed public pushback and after the department director said she would revisit the permit rule.

Social media firms await more legal decisions as Meta faces penalties

2026-03-24

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A New Mexico jury on Tuesday found Meta’s social media platforms violate state consumer protection law and imposed a $375 million penalty tied to harms alleged to children’s mental health. The decision is the first jury verdict in a set of U.S. child-safety lawsuits targeting social media companies, and it could shape how other trials argue issues such as accountability under consumer protection laws. Meta said it disagrees and plans to appeal.

Robert Frazer named U.S. attorney for New Jersey after disqualifications

2026-03-24

A federal judge on Monday named Robert Frazer as U.S. attorney for New Jersey, ending a court fight over the Trump administration’s control of the post after previous appointees were disqualified. The appointment followed disqualifications of three Department of Justice officials who were sharing authority over the office, a move that fed a broader dispute between judges and the administration over whether judicially appointed prosecutors could be replaced.

US to pay TotalEnergies to drop offshore wind leases

2026-03-24

The Trump administration will pay TotalEnergies about $1 billion to terminate two U.S. offshore wind leases off the coasts of North Carolina and New York, the Department of the Interior said Monday. TotalEnergies will receive the refund and pledge not to develop new U.S. offshore wind projects, according to Interior.

South Africa reburies Khoi and San remains sent to Europe for research

2026-03-24

South Africa reburied the remains of at least 63 Khoi and San people on Monday after they were repatriated from a European museum, the Associated Press reported. President Cyril Ramaphosa attended the ceremony and said the practice of selling and studying Indigenous remains in Europe was rooted in racism.

Rahm Emanuel proposes banning federal employees from betting on prediction markets

2026-03-24

Rahm Emanuel, a potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidate, proposed a ban on federal employees and their families from betting on prediction markets, saying he wants to shine a light on what he describes as corruption in national politics. Emanuel told The Associated Press the proposal would cover leaders and employees across the executive, legislative and judicial branches and that, if elected, he would seek to create a Justice Department division to investigate such betting.

Orbán opponent demands investigation into Hungary’s alleged Moscow backchannel

2026-03-24

Hungarian opposition leader Péter Magyar, the front-runner ahead of an April parliamentary election, called for an investigation into an alleged backchannel between Budapest and Moscow that he described as “treason.” The accusations follow a Washington Post report alleging that Hungary’s government has shared detailed information from European Council meetings with Russia for years.

Meloni’s judicial reform rejected as Italian voters back “No”

2026-03-24

Italian voters on Monday rejected a judicial reform backed by conservative Premier Giorgia Meloni, delivering a setback to the right-wing government about one year before national elections. Final results released by Italy’s Interior Ministry showed the “No” campaign won with almost 54% of the vote against about 46% for “Yes.” Meloni said in an Instagram video that Italians had “decided” and she would respect the outcome, while acknowledging “regret for a missed opportunity to modernize Italy.”

Meloni enfrenta prueba crucial con referendo sobre reforma judicial en Italia

2026-03-24

Giorgia Meloni, primera ministra conservadora de Italia, se enfrenta a un referendo de dos días sobre su reforma judicial, que inició el domingo y se prolonga hasta el lunes, y que se ha convertido en un pulso político sobre su liderazgo. Con 12 horas de votación del primer día, el Ministerio del Interior informó que la participación superó el 38% de los votantes habilitados.

Video of ICE arrest at San Francisco airport draws Democrats' anger

2026-03-24

Democrats criticized the federal arrest of a Guatemalan-bound family at San Francisco International Airport after video showed officers detaining a crying woman while her child watched. State Sen. Scott Wiener and other California Democrats said the incident fueled fear as ICE officers were being deployed to airports during a partial shutdown and funding impasse.

Democrats pitch simpler tax cuts as voters press for affordability

2026-03-24

Voters’ concerns about affordability are pushing some Democrats to embrace tax-cut proposals, including Sen. Chris Van Hollen’s plan to end the federal income tax for individuals making $46,000 or less and Sen. Cory Booker’s idea to exempt income taxes on the first $75,000 of earnings. The shift echoes tactics long used by Republicans under President Donald Trump, even as analysts warn that the proposals could complicate Democrats’ efforts to fund programs such as Medicaid.

European far right rallies behind Orbán ahead of Hungary election

2026-03-24

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is drawing fresh support from leading European far-right figures as voters prepare to choose a new government on April 12, with his allies pitching the contest as a referendum on the direction of Europe and the movement’s future. The leaders gathered Monday in Budapest for an assembly of Patriots for Europe, a parliamentary group set up in 2024 by Orbán and other far-right partners.

Mexican authorities find 229 migrants trapped in truck in Veracruz

2026-03-24

Mexican authorities found 229 migrants packed in the back of a truck traveling through the eastern state of Veracruz, marking the first such encounter in months, officials said. The migrants were discovered after they began calling for help from inside a vehicle that had been taken to a police impound lot, according to the state official and a witness who spoke anonymously.

Nebraska seeks to end retroactive Medicaid coverage

2026-03-24

Nebraska officials are seeking to eliminate retroactive Medicaid coverage statewide, a proposal that opponents say would leave Medicaid patients paying out of pocket for early or emergency care while paperwork is processed. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is accepting public comment on the plan, which would make Nebraska the only state to end retroactive coverage entirely if implemented.

Nevada lacks rules for license plate reader cameras used by police

2026-03-24

Nevada does not have state laws regulating license plate reader cameras, even as multiple counties and cities have placed large networks of automated cameras in recent years. The AP reports that at least five local governments in Nevada have agreements with Flock Safety, which collects vehicle data and connects it to a national database police can use to search for vehicles across jurisdictions. Lawmakers and residents interviewed by The Nevada Independent said the technology is outpacing governance and raising privacy concerns.

Students sue University of Alabama over suspension of campus magazines

2026-03-24

Students at the University of Alabama filed a federal lawsuit Monday challenging the suspension of two student-run magazines, alleging censorship and viewpoint-based discrimination by university officials. The lawsuit says the magazines—Nineteen Fifty-Six and Alice—were stopped in December after administrators determined they had a “perceived target audience,” citing guidance related to diversity, equity and inclusion programs. University of Alabama spokesman Alex House said the school has no plans to comment on the pending litigation.

US Census plans postal-carrier pilot for 2030 head count tests

2026-03-24

The U.S. Census Bureau said dozens of postal carriers in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and Huntsville, Alabama, will help administer in-person questions in a spring test for the 2030 head count. Starting in June, the carriers will ask residents who do not respond online about race, ethnicity and household relationships, according to new details released March 23.

Mail ballot case before Supreme Court could upend voting in Alaska

2026-03-23

The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear arguments on whether ballots in federal elections must be received by Election Day, a dispute that Alaska officials and voting-rights lawyers say could affect thousands of rural voters in the state. Alaska counts ballots that are postmarked by Election Day and received within 10 days, or 15 days for overseas voters. If the court limits the practice nationwide, Alaska’s geography and reliance on air service could make deadlines harder to meet.

California GOP sheriff seizes ballots as he campaigns for governor

2026-03-23

Chad Bianco, the Riverside County sheriff running for California governor, seized more than half a million ballots from county election officials as his office investigated a ballot count discrepancy, the Associated Press reported. California Attorney General Rob Bonta said the move was unprecedented and aimed to sow distrust in elections. Bianco said the investigation would include a physical count and operate under a special master appointed by a judge.

Socialist Emmanuel Grégoire becomes new mayor of Paris

2026-03-23

Socialist candidate Emmanuel Grégoire won the Paris mayoral race Sunday, succeeding Anne Hidalgo as results from the second round of France’s municipal elections showed gains for both the traditional left and right. Far-right-aligned forces won Nice, while left-wing mayors held Marseille and other watched cities remained with mainstream incumbents.

ICE officers to help TSA at airports during DHS funding impasse

2026-03-23

President Donald Trump ordered U.S. immigration enforcement officers to assist the Transportation Security Administration at airports as a partial Homeland Security shutdown drags on, a plan that has drawn concern from senators and TSA employees about added friction for travelers and screening operations. The White House border czar, Tom Homan, said the priority is large airports where waits can last “three hours,” while DHS spokeswoman Lauren Bis said “hundreds” of ICE officers would be deployed but would not name locations. Federal workers, including TSA, have gone without pay since Congress failed to renew DHS funding last month.

Nonprofits, unions and airports feed TSA officers as shutdown drags

2026-03-23

Nonprofits, unions and airports across the U.S. have begun delivering food to Transportation Security Administration officers affected by a partial government shutdown that left them without full pay for more than a month, the Associated Press reported. The effort reflects constraints on how federal employees can receive gifts during the workday, and how local groups are coordinating with airports and TSA offices to help workers cover immediate needs.

Syrians protest alcohol restrictions in Damascus over civil liberties

2026-03-23

Syrians protested Sunday in Bab Touma, a Christian neighborhood in Damascus, against new government limits on alcohol sales and consumption under Syria’s Islamist-led interim authorities. Demonstrators chanted for personal freedom and urged the government to protect religious minorities, as heavily armed security surrounded the rally without incident, the Associated Press reported.

Trump threatens ICE role at airports starting Monday amid DHS funding fight

2026-03-23

Trump said Saturday he would order ICE agents to intervene in airport security starting Monday unless Democrats agree to a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security. His threat came as a partial government shutdown has lengthened airport lines and some TSA workers have continued working without pay.

Democrats sharpen criticism of Vance before the 2028 White House campaign

2026-03-23

Democrats are increasingly turning their attention from President Donald Trump to Vice President JD Vance as they plan for the 2028 presidential campaign, according to an Associated Press report from Ohio and interviews with party strategists and political figures. In Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear’s stop in Vance’s home county, Beshear criticized Vance’s 2016 memoir “Hillbilly Elegy” and drew boos from the audience as Democrats tried to define Vance before Trump leaves office.

Poland responds after Hungary accused of sharing EU details with Russia

2026-03-23

Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk, said Sunday that Poland “had our suspicions” about Hungary sharing detailed information from EU Council meetings with Russia, after a Washington Post report cited current and former European security officials alleging the practice has continued for years. Tusk’s remarks came a day after Poland’s government responded publicly to Hungary’s denials and criticism of its position amid tense relations over EU support for Ukraine.

Italy’s judicial reform referendum tests Meloni as vote nears end

2026-03-23

Italy’s two-day referendum on judicial reform is drawing a close, high-stakes political fight for Premier Giorgia Meloni, with the “No” camp gaining late momentum. The ballot, which began Sunday, has become a broader judgment on her leadership at home and abroad. After 12 hours of voting on the first day, Italy’s Interior Ministry said turnout topped 38%—the highest such level recorded at the same point in any two-day referendum.

Slovenia liberals and populists neck and neck as vote count nears 99%

2026-03-23

Slovenia’s governing liberals and opposition right-wing populists were neck and neck after nearly complete preliminary results from a tightly contested parliamentary election, with no bloc winning a majority in the 90-seat legislature. The Freedom Movement led by Prime Minister Robert Golob had 28.5% of the vote, compared with 28.1% for the Slovenian Democratic Party led by ex-premier Janez Jansa, according to the State Election Commission. The near-tie sets up uncertainty over coalition talks and a possible role for smaller parties as kingmakers, the AP reported.

Trump's EPA moves to weaken regional haze rule for national parks

2026-03-23

Federal environmental regulators told West Virginia last year its plan to reduce sulfur and smog over national wilderness areas was insufficient. Six months later, the Environmental Protection Agency under President Donald Trump approved a revised approach that conservationists say would allow states to roll back pollution limits that have improved visibility in parks nationwide.

Netanyahu weighs election timing as Iran and Hezbollah wars intensify

2026-03-22

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu must decide whether to hold the next election on schedule by the end of October or call early elections ahead of that deadline. With fighting ongoing involving Iran and Hezbollah on multiple fronts, his opponents in Iran and Lebanon could influence public pressure on the timetable, Associated Press reported.

Congress presses Trump to spell out exit strategy for Iran war

2026-03-22

President Donald Trump took the United States to war with Iran without a congressional vote, and lawmakers are increasingly pressing for a clearer endgame as the conflict drags on. With the War Powers Act allowing 60 days of military action without congressional approval, lawmakers in both parties say the administration faces mounting questions about when, how and at what cost the operation will end.

Judge orders Voice of America restored as Trump administration prepares appeal

2026-03-22

A federal judge ordered the Voice of America to resume operations after the Trump administration last year largely shut it down, directing hundreds of VOA employees placed on paid leave to return to work. The government filed notice Thursday to appeal the March 7 order by U.S. District Court Judge Royce C. Lamberth, who ruled that Kari Lake lacked authority to reduce VOA to a “skeleton.”

Frustration grows as Russia restricts Telegram

2026-03-22

Russia has blocked or curtailed protests in multiple regions tied to internet censorship and the messaging app Telegram, often citing local pretexts or procedural rationales, the Associated Press reported. The restrictions have frustrated demonstrators and prompted some activists to scale back to smaller gatherings or challenge refusals in court.

Ex-FBI chief Robert Mueller, who probed Russia-Trump campaign ties, dies

2026-03-22

Robert S. Mueller III, the former FBI director who led the agency after the Sept. 11 attacks and later served as special counsel investigating ties between Russia and Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign, has died. He was 81. His family said he died Friday night, adding that they asked that their privacy be respected.

Lawyers say children detained past court limits still face conditions at Dilley

2026-03-22

Lawyers for detained immigrant children say a Texas family detention facility still has concerning conditions as children’s stays stretch beyond a court-ordered 20-day custody limit, according to new court filings. The filings describe hundreds of children held at the Dilley facility in recent months without enough food, medical care or mental health services, and include accounts of staff withholding prescribed medication from at least one child.

Campaign support money grows along with profile of state attorneys general

2026-03-22

In state attorney general races that could help determine U.S. policy in years to come, both parties are seeing record fundraising as legal battles against the federal government shape the political landscape for 2026. The Associated Press reports that Republican-aligned groups raised $29 million for the 2026 midterms and Democratic groups reported $28 million, twice as much as usual at this stage. Across states including Arizona and Texas, candidates are framing the AG job as a political lever as well as a legal one.

Trump says ICE will work airport security unless Democrats fund DHS

2026-03-22

President Donald Trump said he will order federal immigration officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to take a role in airport security starting Monday unless Democrats agree to a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security. Trump made the announcement in social media posts on Saturday while a partial government shutdown has contributed to long lines at some major airports.

Airline passengers press for restored TSA pay during DHS shutdown

2026-03-22

Airline passengers reported long TSA security lines Saturday and said Transportation Security Administration paychecks should be restored as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s partial shutdown continues. Several travelers tied the delays and staffing disruptions to TSA officers missing pay during the lapse that began Feb. 14.

Senate blocks transgender athletes amendment during voting bill debate

2026-03-22

The U.S. Senate on Saturday blocked an amendment that would bar transgender athletes from playing in women’s sports while lawmakers debated a broad voting bill, Reuters reported. The amendment lost 49-41 during a rare weekend session as Republican President Donald Trump pressed Congress to act.

Cuba rejects request to import diesel for U.S. embassy generators

2026-03-22

Cuba’s government rejected a request from the U.S. Embassy in Havana to import diesel for its generators, according to two U.S. officials, as the Trump administration maintains pressure on the island over energy and politics. The refusal came as the U.S. State Department weighs reducing embassy staffing because of diesel shortages.

Iran execution of 3 protesters feared to signal wider wave of killings

2026-03-22

Iran hanged three young men in Qom this week, the Associated Press reported, prompting rights groups to fear a broader wave of executions after mass arrests during nationwide protests in January. The men were convicted on charges related to “moharabeh,” or “waging war against God,” after authorities accused them of killing two police officers during unrest.

Japan reacts with unease after Trump cites Pearl Harbor to justify Iran war

2026-03-22

The reaction in Japan was marked by embarrassment and unease after President Donald Trump cited Pearl Harbor during questions about why he did not warn allies before the U.S. attack on Iran. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi was seated beside him when he made the remark, and some Japanese officials and commentators said it was awkward for a wartime-history reference to surface at a summit.

Republican Tom Kean Jr. faces headwinds as he seeks re-election in NJ

2026-03-22

Tom Kean Jr., a Republican congressman from New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, is trying to retain his House seat in this year’s midterm elections as Democrats target competitive races tied to President Donald Trump’s agenda and unpopularity. Kean’s district has shifted slightly more Republican since being redrawn nearly five years ago, but his reelection pitch hinges on tax cuts and local issues while Democrats challenge him on tariffs, a rail tunnel project and a proposed immigration detention facility.

Russia blocks Telegram-related protests, citing shifting local excuses

2026-03-22

Russian authorities blocked or disrupted protests against the online censorship and the blocking of Telegram, a popular messaging app, citing changing local reasons ranging from “tree inspections” to weather and pandemic-era rules. In the Russian Far East, a regional lawmaker said the bans have not stopped the discontent, despite rising pressure on unauthorized demonstrations. The Associated Press reported the incidents across multiple regions and noted that some people who tried to challenge denials in court also lost.

Hundreds of migrants vanish in the Mediterranean as authorities withhold data

2026-03-22

Bodies wash ashore and families wait without answers as migrants trying to reach Europe disappear along a Mediterranean route often described as “invisible shipwrecks.” The Associated Press reported that Italy, Tunisia and Malta have restricted or withheld information on migrant rescues and shipwrecks, leaving even the United Nations migration agency unable to verify many cases.

Anti-government rally in Prague draws tens of thousands against Babis

2026-03-22

Tens of thousands of protesters rallied in Prague on Saturday against the policies and plans of the Czech government led by Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, organizers said. The demonstration at Letná park focused on concerns that Babiš and his coalition cabinet pose a threat to democracy and to the country’s stance toward Ukraine, organizers and speakers said.

Lula condemns “colonial” interference at CELAC summit in Colombia

2026-03-22

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized what he called a “colonial approach” toward developing nations during a summit in Colombia on Saturday, without naming U.S. President Donald Trump. Speaking at the Brazil-CELAC forum, Lula linked the criticism to actions including the handling of Venezuela’s former leader Nicolás Maduro, a U.S. fuel blockade on Cuba, and the U.S.-Israel war against Iran. Colombian President Gustavo Petro also denounced what he said was the United Nations’ inability to stop conflicts, citing the Security Council’s veto structure.

Enfrentamiento en EE.UU. por el cierre: Trump impulsa pagar a la TSA

2026-03-22

En medio del cierre parcial del gobierno federal, el presidente Donald Trump amenazó con usar agentes del ICE en la seguridad aeroportuaria si los demócratas en el Congreso no financian a la TSA. Mientras tanto, en el aeropuerto de Atlanta, pasajeros dijeron el sábado que el principal problema es la falta de pago a los inspectores. La financiación de la agencia no avanzó el viernes en el Senado, donde el líder demócrata Chuck Schumer prometió una medida para financiar solo a la TSA.

Secretive US deal with Equatorial Guinea strands deported migrants

2026-03-22

A U.S. immigration judge ruled that a refugee could not be deported to his home country because of danger but he was later handcuffed and sent to Equatorial Guinea, where he remains detained, according to The Associated Press and interviews with a lawyer and the refugee. The AP described a broader pattern in which dozens of migrants deported to Equatorial Guinea under U.S.-Africa deals remain stuck without an asylum policy, even after U.S. judges provide protections against return to their home countries.

Democrats use Trump tariff fight as governor race focus

2026-03-21

Less than a week after the Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump’s global tariffs, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has made the tariff fallout a central theme of her reelection campaign, pressing for a $13.5 billion refund and criticizing her Republican opponent for supporting the levies. Democrats across the country are also elevating tariffs and broader affordability pressures in governor races as voting concerns expand beyond immigration and the war in Iran.

Connecticut homeschool reporting requirements bill advances despite opposition

2026-03-21

Connecticut lawmakers advanced a bill that would create new reporting requirements for families removing children from public school to homeschool or enroll in private schools. The measure, House Bill 5468, cleared the Education Committee on Wednesday despite broad opposition from Republicans and four Democrats. Proponents said the bill targets a blind spot in child-welfare oversight; opponents said it would intrude on homeschool rights and divert attention from safety problems in public schools.

Supreme Court revives evangelical Christian’s free-speech lawsuit

2026-03-21

The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday revived a lawsuit by evangelical Christian Gabriel Olivier, who says Mississippi authorities violated his First Amendment rights when he was arrested for refusing to move his preaching. The unanimous ruling clears the way for Olivier to seek a future court order stopping enforcement of a Brandon, Mississippi, ordinance restricting him to a designated “protest zone,” even though he was convicted of violating the law.

Supreme Court weighs whether to allow grace periods for mail ballots

2026-03-21

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments Monday in a dispute over whether states can count mail ballots that arrive after Election Day. A case challenging Mississippi’s five-day grace period has raised questions for 14 states that allow some post–Election Day deliveries to be received and counted. Election officials and voting-rights groups warn a ruling against the grace periods could force rapid changes ahead of the November midterm elections.

Democrats call SAVE voter-ID bill too strict as Senate debates

2026-03-21

Republicans are holding the Senate floor to debate a federal voting bill they say is needed to prevent illegal voting, President Donald Trump included in support for the measure. Democrats say they do not oppose voter identification in principle, but they argue the GOP bill is too strict and will suppress lawful voters. The bill, known as the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act or SAVE Act, would require specified proof of identity and would expand Homeland Security access to state voter rolls.

Missouri judge orders new ballot summary for Trump-backed redistricting plan

2026-03-21

A Missouri state judge on Friday ordered a new description for a ballot proposal that would let voters consider a Trump-backed congressional redistricting plan. The judge acted after Missouri’s Republican secretary of state acknowledged that he crafted an “unfair summary” by describing the existing districts as “gerrymandered.”

Judge blocks Pentagon policy limiting reporters’ access to news briefings

2026-03-21

A federal judge in Washington, D.C., blocked the Trump administration from enforcing a Pentagon policy that would limit news reporters’ access to the Pentagon, ruling that parts of the rules are unlawful. U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman sided with The New York Times, which sued over the Pentagon credentialing policy and argued it violates journalists’ constitutional rights.

Iran war underscores risks of Trump’s focus on oil and fossil fuels

2026-03-21

The war in Iran is complicating U.S. efforts to keep energy affordable, with experts pointing to rising crude prices and gasoline costs as the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively blocked. They say President Donald Trump’s push for fossil fuels—paired with rollbacks of renewable-energy policies—has left consumers with fewer alternatives when supply shocks hit.

War and displacement mar Lebanon’s run-up to Eid al-Fitr

2026-03-21

Lebanon’s Eid al-Fitr preparations have been upended by renewed war and displacement, with more than 1 million people forced from their homes, the Associated Press reported. Muslims in parts of the country, including Sidon and Beirut, are spending the holiday in shelters or makeshift arrangements rather than gathering at home.

Departed counterterrorism official denies leaking classified documents

2026-03-21

Joe Kent, a former counterterrorism director who resigned this week in protest of the Iran war, denied allegations that he improperly shared classified information. The FBI is investigating whether Kent leaked classified material, and the investigation preceded his resignation, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Georgia suspends fuel taxes as Middle East conflict drives gas prices

2026-03-21

Georgia became the first U.S. state to suspend its gas and diesel fuel taxes for 60 days after the war in the Middle East sent pump prices higher, Gov. Brian Kemp signed the measure on Friday. The tax break cuts Georgia’s 33-cents-per-gallon gas levy and 37-cents-per-gallon diesel tax for two months, with motorists expected to see relief as wholesalers pass along the savings. While Georgia uses state savings to cover a projected $360 million to $400 million revenue gap, other states are weighing whether to follow.

DHS funding talks fail again as TSA line concerns prompt new pitch

2026-03-21

A bill to fund the U.S. Department of Homeland Security failed to advance in the Senate on Friday, as lawmakers weighed mounting complaints about long lines at airport security checkpoints. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said he would offer an alternative measure Saturday to fund only the Transportation Security Administration, which screens passengers and luggage for hazardous items.

France says sailor’s Strava use prompted “appropriate measures”

2026-03-21

France said it is taking “appropriate measures” after a French naval officer’s reported use of the Strava exercise app allowed journalists to pinpoint the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle’s location in the Mediterranean. The discovery, reported by Le Monde, involved a jog on March 13 that journalists then matched to satellite imagery to find the carrier as France and allies protect assets during the Iran war.

Georgia appeals court rules Fulton County can reject GOP election board picks

2026-03-21

ATLANTA (AP) — A Georgia appeals court ruled Friday that Fulton County commissioners can reject Republican nominees for the county election board and request other choices. The ruling overturned a contempt finding tied to the county’s prior refusal to seat GOP picks Julie Adams and Jason Frazier.

Hegseth’s Christian rhetoric draws renewed scrutiny during Iran war

2026-03-21

The U.S. defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, has faced renewed scrutiny over his Christian rhetoric as the U.S. and Israel go to war with Iran, after he compared Iran’s Shiite clerics to “mullahs” and recited Bible verses during Pentagon remarks, the Associated Press reported. The criticism comes as a Democratic lawmaker letter to the Pentagon inspector general raises unverified allegations that some military commanders told troops the Iran war would fulfill biblical prophecies.

Judge rules U.S. overreached with transgender health care declaration

2026-03-21

A federal judge in Oregon ruled the federal government overreached when it issued a declaration warning that treatments such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy and surgeries are unsafe and ineffective for young people with gender dysphoria. The ruling said the Health secretary did not follow proper administrative procedures in issuing the declaration in December. The judge granted preliminary relief for health professionals who provide the treatments and denied the government’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit.

States and cities sue EPA over repeal of endangerment climate finding

2026-03-21

Two dozen states, along with more than a dozen cities and counties, sued the Environmental Protection Agency on Thursday, challenging the Trump administration’s repeal of a 2009 scientific finding that greenhouse gases threaten public health and welfare. The states filed the case in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit after the EPA finalized the rescission last month, which plaintiffs said could roll back greenhouse gas emissions rules for cars, trucks and power plants.

Trump administration sues Harvard, seeking to recover grants

2026-03-21

The Justice Department filed a new lawsuit against Harvard University in federal court in Massachusetts, alleging the school failed to address antisemitism and seeking to recover federal research funds and block future grant money. The suit also asks a judge to require Harvard to call police to arrest protesters who block campus areas and to appoint a government-approved independent monitor. Harvard said it has taken “substantive, proactive steps” to address antisemitism and emphasized protections for Jewish and Israeli community members.

US to set up 12 regional disaster response hubs under new State Dept office

2026-03-21

The U.S. State Department said it is creating a new Bureau of Disaster and Humanitarian Response based in Washington that will coordinate disaster and emergency humanitarian aid through 12 regional hubs. The hubs will be located in Miami; Bogota, Colombia; Guatemala City; Santo Domingo; Kyiv; Amman; Addis Ababa; Nairobi; Dakar; Bangkok; Dhaka; and Manila, the department said.

Brazil finance minister Fernando Haddad resigns to run for São Paulo governor

2026-03-21

Brazilian Finance Minister Fernando Haddad resigned to run for governor of São Paulo state, according to a decision published in Brazil’s official gazette Friday, the Associated Press reported. Haddad said Thursday that he would seek the job and that he runs “to win,” while current Gov. Tarcísio de Freitas, an ally of former President Jair Bolsonaro, has said he plans to seek reelection.

Vermont police defend officers’ conduct during federal immigration operation

2026-03-21

State and local law enforcement officials in Vermont defended officers’ conduct during clashes with protesters during a federal immigration operation last week in South Burlington, as lawmakers questioned whether the violence violated state police policy. At a Statehouse hearing Thursday, Col. Matthew Birmingham of the Vermont State Police and others said local officers acted professionally and were present to help keep everyone safe. Activists and lawmakers described competing accounts of how the operation escalated and who should be held responsible.

DEA names Colombian president 'priority target' as U.S. probes drug ties

2026-03-21

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has been designated a “priority target” by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, according to records and people familiar with the matter. The designation comes as federal prosecutors in New York probe alleged ties between Petro’s representatives and drug traffickers, including allegations about bribery to block extraditions, the Associated Press reported.

US Mint can begin producing Trump commemorative gold coin

2026-03-21

A federal arts commission approved the final design for a 24-karat gold commemorative coin bearing President Donald Trump’s image as part of the U.S. 250th birthday celebrations on July 4. The approval, issued by the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, clears the way for the U.S. Mint to begin production, though the coin’s size, denomination, and production quantity were still under discussion.

Treasury to manage federal student-loan defaults under new agreement

2026-03-21

The Treasury Department will take over management of certain federal student loans whose borrowers are in default under a new agreement announced Thursday, according to the Treasury Department and the U.S. Education Department. The Education Department will hand off defaulted loan management as part of President Donald Trump’s broader plans to dismantle the education agency, the agreement said.

Cadre of US clergy vie for political office as Democrats

2026-03-21

In Iowa, three Democrats running for the U.S. House include pastors who say their faith shapes their campaigns and their messaging to religious voters. The Rev. Sarah Trone Garriott, a Lutheran pastor and state senator, has pushed for Medicaid protections while encouraging congregants to welcome strangers, while other clergy candidates tie their political bids to how voters interpret religion in public life.

Minnesota judge grants clergy access to ICE holding facility

2026-03-21

A federal judge in Minnesota granted an injunction allowing clergy to conduct in-person pastoral visits to detainees at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement holding facility in Minneapolis. The ruling came after clergy groups including the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the United Church of Christ and a Catholic priest sued the Department of Homeland Security.

A look at who holds the reins of power in Iran

2026-03-21

One after another, Israel has taken out top Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and, more recently, Ali Larijani, according to reporting. With Iran facing continued strikes and uncertainty over succession, analysts say the answer to who is running Iran depends on how its layered command structure operates during wartime.

Pennsylvania juvenile court faces cases after scuffle with police chief

2026-03-21

Four to eight days after five high school protesters were detained following a Feb. 20 scuffle in Quakertown, Pennsylvania, three of the teens’ juvenile court hearings were delayed Friday while a fourth entered a six-month probation program aimed at expunging the arrest if he completes it. A fifth teen’s lawyer asked a judge to drop assault charges tied to the incident involving police chief Scott McElree, according to court proceedings and attorneys.

Chicago Transit Authority sues to restore $2B federal rail funding

2026-03-21

The Chicago Transit Authority has filed a federal lawsuit seeking restoration of $2 billion in commuter rail expansion funding that President Donald Trump’s administration halted last fall. The agency says the pause was imposed arbitrarily to restrict race- and gender-based contracting, which it argues is unconstitutional.

CBS News shutters radio news service after nearly a century

2026-03-21

CBS News said Friday it will shut down its radio news service after nearly 100 years, ending a long-running lineup that served hundreds of local stations with top-of-the-hour newscasts. The network said the service will end May 22 and blamed challenging economic times and listener migration to digital sources and podcasts.

Cuba gifts an AKM rifle to Silvio Rodríguez after he vows to fight

2026-03-21

Cuba’s Revolutionary Armed Forces presented Cuban singer Silvio Rodríguez with an AKM rifle and a replica of one, according to a video posted by President Miguel Díaz-Canel’s office on Friday. The gift ceremony came after Rodríguez said in a March 18 comment that he demanded his “AKM” if Cuba faced an attack.

DOE unveils 10-gigawatt Ohio data center, natural gas power plan

2026-03-21

The U.S. Department of Energy announced a public-private partnership to develop a major data center in southern Ohio on the site of a decommissioned uranium enrichment plant, with power generation integrated into the project. The Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Pike County—now branded as the “PORTS Technology Campus”—is expected to include a 10-gigawatt data center and up to 10 gigawatts of new generation, including 9.2 gigawatts of natural gas, DOE said.

Hundreds of TSA officers quit rather than work without pay during DHS shutdown

2026-03-21

TSA officers are quitting as a government funding standoff forces them to staff U.S. airports without pay, compounding staffing shortages that have left some travelers facing multi-hour security-line waits. Homeland Security says at least 376 TSA employees have resigned since the shutdown began on Valentine’s Day, with absenteeism climbing nationwide as officers try to earn money on the side.

Vance visit to Hungary comes days before Orbán faces election challenge

2026-03-21

U.S. Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to visit Hungary days before Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government faces a pivotal election challenge, Hungary’s foreign minister said. The foreign ministry said the trip grows out of the “very intensive Hungarian–American intergovernmental relationship,” but Vance’s office has not confirmed when he would arrive.

Jurors in New Mexico weigh Meta’s role in child harms from social media

2026-03-21

Jurors in Santa Fe, New Mexico are weighing allegations that Meta Platforms Inc. violated the state’s consumer protection laws by allegedly failing to disclose risks its platforms pose for children, including mental health harms and sexual exploitation. The New Mexico case, filed by Attorney General Raúl Torrez, reached the sixth week and is set for closing arguments next week.

Mullin DHS nomination advances to full Senate after narrow panel vote

2026-03-20

Markwayne Mullin moved closer to becoming President Donald Trump’s next homeland security secretary after a Senate committee narrowly advanced his nomination in a 8-7 vote Thursday. The decision sent the Cabinet pick to the full Senate, which could consider confirmation as soon as next week.

Japan’s Takaichi seeks reaffirmed Trump alliance amid Strait of Hormuz push

2026-03-20

Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s prime minister, met President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday as Trump faced questions about U.S. strikes on Iran and allies’ support for protecting the Strait of Hormuz. Takaichi told Trump Japan opposes Iran’s nuclear development and described the Middle East as a “very severe security environment,” urging him to be seen as a peacemaker while Japan weighs what it can do under its constitutional constraints. The leaders also signed a White House-described $40 billion nuclear reactor deal, even as tensions surfaced during a public appearance.

TSA wait times a wild card during DHS shutdown as staffing varies

2026-03-20

Travelers faced widely shifting TSA security checkpoint wait times on March 19 during the partial shutdown of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, with the length of lines depending on how many Transportation Security Administration officers showed up for shifts. At Houston’s largest airport, some passengers reported hourslong waits before conditions eased, while officials at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport said waits ranged from moderate to low even as one checkpoint closed amid low staffing.

FCC approves Nexstar-Tegna merger as states, DirecTV sue to block deal

2026-03-20

The Federal Communications Commission on Thursday approved Nexstar Media Group’s acquisition of Tegna, allowing the local broadcast-industry deal to proceed as two lawsuits seek to block it. The agency said it agreed to divest six stations and that the transaction will give broadcasters resources to keep investing in local news.

Powell says he will remain Federal Reserve chair if Warsh isn’t confirmed

2026-03-20

Jerome Powell said on Wednesday that he would stay as chair of the Federal Reserve’s interest-rate setting committee if Kevin Warsh is not confirmed, as a Justice Department investigation into brief remarks by Powell continues. Powell told reporters he would remain in place until the investigation is “well and truly over,” even as his term as chair ends May 15. The comments underscored how a dispute over the investigation and Warsh’s delayed nomination could shape the Fed’s leadership transition.

Second top Republican in Wisconsin Legislature retires, boosting Democrats

2026-03-20

Wisconsin Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu announced he will not seek reelection this fall, following Assembly Speaker Robin Vos’ retirement announcement last month. The retirements, coming after new legislative maps Democrats say favor them, add to Democratic optimism about flipping the state Senate.

US Jews weigh threats and internal rifts over Israel’s Gaza war

2026-03-20

For many U.S. Jews, the upsurge of attacks targeting Jewish communities has coincided with deep divisions over whether to support or oppose Israeli policies in the war in Gaza. The Associated Press spoke with rabbis, Jewish community leaders and writers about heightened security concerns and the blurred line that some critics say is forming between anti-Zionism and antisemitism.

Bipartisan senators meet White House on DHS shutdown, talks show “small sign”

2026-03-20

A bipartisan group of senators met behind closed doors Thursday with White House border czar Tom Homan as lawmakers seek to end a Department of Homeland Security shutdown that began more than a month ago, according to the Associated Press. The meeting came as Transportation Security Administration officers working without pay were reportedly calling out sick, contributing to longer airport screening lines.

Pentagon seeks $200B in extra funds for Iran war as Congress weighs

2026-03-20

The Pentagon has asked the White House for $200 billion in additional funding for the Iran war, an Associated Press report said Sunday, setting up a new fight in Congress over whether to approve more money. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said at a news conference that the figure could change as Republicans and Democrats demand details on costs and strategy.

As Iran war expands, thinned State Department struggles to keep up

2026-03-20

In the escalating war involving Iran, the U.S. State Department’s Near Eastern Affairs bureau is operating with fewer senior diplomats and staff than it would have in a prior conflict, according to current and former U.S. officials. The officials described evacuations and other crisis planning as disrupted by management decisions and a reduction in workforce. The State Department disputed the account, saying staffing changes have not harmed its ability to respond to operations and to plan for Americans in the region.

Ex-FBI agents sue Patel over firings tied to Arctic Frost probe

2026-03-20

The two former FBI agents fired last year said in a federal lawsuit filed in Washington that they were terminated “solely” for doing work connected to the FBI’s “Arctic Frost” investigation into President Donald Trump’s effort to overturn the 2020 election results. The lawsuit also alleges the firings followed political disclosures about the probe and sought reinstatement and a court declaration that the terminations were unlawful.

Trump administration investigates states over abortion coverage requirement

2026-03-20

The Trump administration said it has launched investigations into 13 states that require state-regulated health insurance plans to cover abortion. The probes focus on compliance with a federal spending-law provision known as the Weldon Amendment, which bars states from discriminating against health entities that do not provide, cover or refer for abortion.

West Virginia campaign finance law will redact donor employer data

2026-03-20

West Virginia lawmakers on Friday passed a campaign finance bill that will, starting next year, remove donor employer information from public contribution reports. The measure will also redact donors’ residential street addresses, while keeping a street number and street address in the Secretary of State’s records. Supporters said the changes are meant to reduce online harassment and doxxing, while Democrats argued they will make it harder for voters to see who is funding campaigns and whether donors may benefit from government contracts.

California lawmakers seek rename of César Chavez Day after abuse allegations

2026-03-20

California lawmakers said Thursday they plan to move forward with legislation that would rename César Chavez Day as Farmworkers Day, following allegations of sexual abuse involving the late labor leader. Gov. Gavin Newsom said he supports the proposal, and lawmakers said the bill would go to his desk for approval.

Mullin’s son’s injury story shapes Trump bond as DHS pick readies Cabinet

2026-03-20

Sen. Markwayne Mullin, Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Homeland Security, traced his close bond with the president to a severe brain injury his son suffered in a 2020 high school wrestling match. Mullin told the Senate during a confirmation hearing that Trump later asked his then-15-year-old son to sit on his lap and talk about rehabilitation, and that Trump continued checking in. Mullin, a Republican from Oklahoma, is set to replace Kristi Noem, who was fired earlier this month.

Treasury to take over some student loan management as Education dismantles

2026-03-20

The U.S. Education Department will hand off management of about $180 billion in defaulted federal student loans to the Treasury Department, under an agreement announced Thursday. The change is the latest step in President Donald Trump’s effort to dismantle the education agency, with Treasury officials saying it will eventually assume operational responsibility for the rest of the portfolio.

ICE releases Tennessee Spanish-language reporter on bond

2026-03-20

A Spanish-language reporter in Tennessee who said she was wrongly held in U.S. immigration detention for more than two weeks was released Thursday after posting a bond recently allowed by a judge, her attorneys said. Estefany Rodríguez Flórez, who was arrested March 4 during a traffic stop and held in Alabama and Louisiana, will continue fighting what her lawyers describe as a wrongful detention case.

Georgia woman charged with murder in medication abortion case

2026-03-20

SAVANNAH, Ga. (AP) — Police in Georgia have charged Alexia Moore, 31, with murder after she allegedly took pills to induce an illegal abortion, according to an arrest warrant. Prosecutors have not yet decided whether to pursue the murder charge, but Moore remains jailed in coastal Camden County. Her case arrives amid Georgia’s 2019 law banning most abortions after embryonic cardiac activity can be detected.

Decades-long resilience of Cuba’s government in jeopardy over Trump “siege”

2026-03-20

In March, supplies of oil and other goods to Cuba collapsed, according to shipping data reviewed by the maritime intelligence firm Windward, prompting blackouts and disruptions to medical care on the island. The Associated Press reported that no foreign tankers arrived in March, and that only a handful of container ships listed Cuba as a destination. U.S. officials have linked steps toward private-sector activity and humanitarian shipments, but critics say the approach is starving the country.

Asylum claim denied for family of bunny-hat boy detained in Minneapolis

2026-03-20

An immigration judge denied the asylum claim for the family of Liam Conejo Ramos, a 5-year-old photographed in a bunny hat and Spider-Man backpack when he was detained with his father in a Minneapolis-area crackdown earlier this year, a family lawyer said. The judge ordered the family deported to Ecuador, and the family is appealing the ruling. The arrests and national coverage unfolded as federal immigration officers carried out a surge of raids that prompted protests and two federal shootings of American citizens.

Brazilian law takes effect to limit addictive and harmful content for minors

2026-03-20

A Brazilian law designed to protect minors from addictive, violent and pornographic online content took effect this week, requiring children under 16 to link social media accounts to a legal guardian and placing limits on platform “addictive features.” The law, signed into law by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva last month, also requires digital services to use age-verification measures beyond users’ self-declarations.

Afroman wins defamation lawsuit over Ohio deputies’ raid parody videos

2026-03-20

Rapper Afroman won a defamation lawsuit against seven Ohio sheriff’s deputies over viral music videos that mocked a 2022 raid of his home using home security footage. Afroman, whose real name is Joseph Foreman, shouted a victory message outside the courthouse after the verdict and later posted the clip to social media.

NYC Mayor Mamdani unveils community safety office, first step on crisis response pledge

2026-03-20

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani unveiled a new Office of Community Safety on Thursday, framing it as an initial step toward reducing police involvement in mental-health emergencies. The office will launch with two staff members and rely, at first, on expanding an existing program called B-HEARD that dispatches mental health workers to 911 calls for people in emotional distress.

States move to limit masked federal immigration agents and other police

2026-03-20

Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson signed a Washington state law restricting law enforcement officers from wearing face coverings that obscure their identities during public interactions, following a court fight over a California ban for federal immigration agents. The move is part of a broader wave of state legislation that seeks to counter complaints that masked agents can operate with less accountability during immigration enforcement.

Teen daughter of North Korea’s Kim drives a tank during drill

2026-03-20

The teenage daughter of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un drove a tank during army training supervised by her father, South Korea and outside observers said Friday, citing state media footage and photos. The appearance, during a period of U.S.-South Korea exercises, has prompted speculation about whether she is being groomed as an heir.

Joe Kent resignation over Iran war reignites antisemitism fears

2026-03-19

A U.S. counterterrorism official, Joe Kent, resigned over President Donald Trump’s war with Iran and later appeared on Tucker Carlson’s podcast, a move that revived worries among Jewish leaders and sparked debate inside conservative circles about Israel’s influence. In comments on the show, Kent raised concerns about Israel’s role in decisions leading to conflict and discussed what he called unanswered questions.

Mullin faces Senate pushback over his DHS nomination

2026-03-19

Markwayne Mullin, President Donald Trump’s pick for homeland security secretary, sought Senate support Wednesday while telling lawmakers he would act as “a steady hand” for a department he said should have its routine funding restored. During his confirmation hearing, senators pressed Mullin on whether he could carry out Trump’s hard-line immigration agenda and on concerns about his temperament after past comments.

Pritzker condemns AIPAC after pro-Israel group spent heavily in Illinois

2026-03-19

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker condemned special-interest money flowing into the state ahead of the Democratic primary, singling out the pro-Israel group AIPAC after it spent heavily in contested races. Pritzker, a former AIPAC donor who left more than a decade ago, told The Associated Press that the group he once supported has “lost its way” and is now backing candidates aligned with former President Donald Trump.

New Trump trade deal tightens US and Indonesia ties

2026-03-19

Indonesia and the United States agreed to a new trade pact that expands access to Indonesia’s critical minerals and energy markets while cutting a threatened U.S. tariff on Indonesian goods. The agreement includes a plan for Indonesia to buy about $15 billion in American energy commodities and calls for cooperation on small modular nuclear reactors, even as its implementation is clouded by a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on Trump’s tariffs.

Republicans face hurdles replacing Georgia touch-screen voting machines

2026-03-19

ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia Republicans have struggled to replace the state’s touch-screen voting machines before the November election, even as they have long argued for changes to the system used to count ballots. A deadline to remove barcode-style elements from ballots is looming, but a bill advanced this week would push a full switch to later years, potentially keeping some voters on Dominion equipment.

Fed holds key rate as Powell says he’ll stay through DOJ probe

2026-03-19

The Federal Reserve kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged for a second straight meeting on Wednesday, and Chair Jerome Powell said he plans to remain in the role until a Justice Department investigation tied to his congressional testimony is concluded. Policymakers maintained their forecast for one additional rate cut this year but signaled they could wait longer as they weigh inflation’s outlook against uncertainty from the Iran war.

How Trump’s tariffs have hurt U.S. manufacturers instead of helping them

2026-03-19

In Arkansas and other parts of the U.S., manufacturers say Trump’s tariff agenda is raising costs and disrupting plans instead of spurring new production. A company that makes equipment used for concrete work said it ran at a loss in 2025 after import taxes increased the price of engines, steel and parts it needs.

FBI investigates whether Joe Kent leaked classified information after Iran protest

2026-03-19

The FBI is investigating whether former National Counterterrorism Center director Joe Kent, who resigned this week in protest of the Iran war, improperly shared classified information, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press. The inquiry comes after Kent resigned Tuesday from his role as director of the U.S. government’s National Counterterrorism Center, the person said. Kent later said in a post on X that he could not “in good conscience” support the war against Iran.

Iranian Americans hold somber Nowruz after January crackdown

2026-03-19

Iranian Americans across the United States are marking Nowruz, the Persian new year, with a mix of sadness and tradition this week, after a January crackdown that killed thousands of demonstrators in Iran. In Los Angeles, Shima Razavi Gacek organized a candlelight vigil and a smaller Chaharshanbe Suri fire-jumping gathering. Other communities canceled parties, while some held quieter events or modified celebrations to reflect the war and grief.

As Zambia nears election season, women report ‘sextortion’ demands

2026-03-19

Lusaka, Zambia — As Zambia approaches its Aug. 13 national elections, politicians and women’s rights groups warned that some female candidates are being asked for sexual favors by senior male party officials in exchange for endorsements. The warning followed comments by the permanent secretary of Zambia’s Gender Division, Mainga Kabika, who said she received 10 complaints alleging sexual harassment from women seeking party backing.

US allows Venezuela to sell more oil as Iran war boosts prices

2026-03-19

The U.S. eased sanctions on Venezuela’s state oil company, allowing U.S. companies to buy Venezuelan oil more directly, as the Trump administration seeks to increase global supplies during the Iran war. The administration also said it will waive for 60 days key shipping requirements under the Jones Act to help reduce disruptions and pressure on energy markets.

Rand Paul confronts DHS nominee Mullin in bitter Senate hearing exchange

2026-03-19

Sen. Rand Paul clashed with Sen. Markwayne Mullin during a Senate Homeland Security confirmation hearing on March 18, with both men trading barbs over past personal and political disputes. Paul said he would vote against President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Homeland Security, while Mullin used direct, combative language and faced questioning over a “super secret” trip he described making to a foreign country.

How $125 million was spent in key Illinois primary races

2026-03-19

Illinois Democrats picked new nominees for five open House and Senate seats in the state’s March primary after a cascade of retirements reshaped the ballot, an Associated Press analysis found. Outside groups poured roughly $70 million into the races and candidates spent about $54 million, totaling about $125 million, AP reported. The spending—much of it independent—tilted especially in the Democratic Senate primary and several open House contests.

Hawaii lawmakers consider ban while managers seek limited aquarium fish permits

2026-03-19

Hawaii’s Legislature is weighing a proposed ban on aquarium fish harvesting on the Big Island as state aquatic managers advance separate rules that would allow limited, permitted collections after years of court blocks. The measures collide as residents and conservationists argue reefs have declined, while pet-trade advocates and industry participants push for a controlled reopening.

Gabbard deflects when asked what Iran-war intel was given Trump

2026-03-19

Tulsi Gabbard, the U.S. director of national intelligence, told senators the intelligence community “appears to be” that Iran’s government is intact but degraded, while repeatedly declining to answer questions about what President Donald Trump was briefed on before the weeks-old war. In prepared remarks to the Senate Intelligence Committee, she also said U.S. strikes last year “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear program and that there has been no effort to rebuild it since.

Cuba’s Díaz-Canel slams Trump “imminent action” threat amid crisis

2026-03-19

Havana’s government accused Washington of threatening “almost daily” overthrow as U.S. President Donald Trump said the U.S. could take “imminent action” against Cuba’s leadership. Cubans interviewed by The Associated Press described blackouts, shortages and uncertainty after the comments, while some questioned whether the U.S. would seek Díaz-Canel’s removal.

Bondi keeps interim U.S. attorney Brad Schimel in Wisconsin under new title

2026-03-19

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi is letting ousted interim federal prosecutor Brad Schimel continue overseeing cases in the Eastern District of Wisconsin under a new title, after federal judges declined to extend his 120-day interim term. The move comes as Democrats in the U.S. Senate delay confirmation votes on President Donald Trump’s appointees.

Lawmakers struggle to end Homeland Security funding lapse

2026-03-19

Lawmakers remain far from ending a funding lapse at the Department of Homeland Security even as President Donald Trump’s nominee to run the agency, Sen. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma, urged colleagues to resolve the impasse. The DHS shutdown entered Day 33 on Wednesday, as House Democrats signed up for a discharge petition aimed at forcing a vote on a bill from Rep. Rosa DeLauro to fund the Transportation Security Administration and other DHS agencies while excluding some immigration enforcement priorities.

Trump Iran strike: ex-counterterrorism chief Joe Kent says doubts were blocked

2026-03-19

Former counterterrorism official Joe Kent, who resigned this week over concerns about the Iran war and U.S. airstrikes, said he and other senior officials were “not allowed” to share doubts with President Donald Trump. Speaking Wednesday on Tucker Carlson’s show, Kent said Trump relied on a small circle of advisers and that the decision-making process lacked a “robust debate,” as the White House did not respond immediately to questions.

Greece launches animal airlift to evacuate pets and their owners

2026-03-19

On Wednesday, dozens of dogs and cats arrived in Athens with their owners on a government-organized evacuation flight from Abu Dhabi, Greece said. The special Aegean flight carried 45 pets and 101 people amid disruptions to airline travel from the war in the Middle East.

U.S. adds 12 countries to visa bond list, with bonds up to $15,000

2026-03-19

The U.S. Department of State said it is adding 12 countries whose citizens must post refundable bonds of up to $15,000 to apply for U.S. visas. The requirement takes effect April 2 for passport holders from Cambodia, Ethiopia, Georgia, Grenada, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mongolia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles and Tunisia.

Trump administration expands Medicaid fraud scrutiny in Florida

2026-03-19

The Trump administration widened its Medicaid fraud crackdown to Florida, urging state officials to share information on how they identify, prevent and address bad actors in the state’s program. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz said Florida has been a “hotspot” for health care fraud and gave officials 30 days to answer detailed questions. The move follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump creating an anti-fraud task force across federal benefit programs led by Vice President JD Vance.

Idaho lawmakers order independent review of sexual assault in women’s prisons

2026-03-19

Idaho lawmakers have ordered an independent review of how the state handles allegations of staff sexual misconduct in women’s prisons after an InvestigateWest investigation, the Associated Press reported. In a meeting March 13, bipartisan members of the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee directed the Idaho Office of Performance Evaluation to assess prevention, reporting, investigations and response—and to recommend improvements.

Maine lawmakers consider state grants to bolster worship-site security

2026-03-19

Synagogues and other houses of worship in Maine are pressing for state funding to help pay for security upgrades as federal nonprofit grants and a growing climate of religious tensions leave some organizations waiting longer than they can plan. The proposal, backed by a multifaith coalition including Jewish and Muslim groups, would create a $1.5 million state nonprofit security grant program.

DHS nominee Markwayne Mullin says FEMA should not be eliminated

2026-03-19

Markwayne Mullin, President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Homeland Security, told a Senate panel on Wednesday that FEMA has a “great mission” and rejected eliminating the agency. In his hearing, Mullin said he supports changes aimed at speeding disaster assistance payments and improving federal support for rural communities.

Kenya’s Nairobi rolls out paid menstrual leave for period pain

2026-03-19

Nairobi’s county government has begun offering female workers two paid days off each month for period pain, a policy that started after a governor raised the issue within his cabinet, according to the Associated Press. The county said the leave took effect in December 2025 for employees in the capital and is intended to support well-being and productivity.

Florida hospital sues to evict patient who won’t leave after discharge

2026-03-19

A Florida hospital has sued to evict a patient who it says has refused to leave a room more than five months after she was discharged. Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare filed the lawsuit in Tallahassee seeking an injunction requiring the patient to vacate the hospital room and asking the county sheriff’s office to help if needed.

Asesor antiterrorismo de Trump renuncia por dudas sobre guerra con Irán

2026-03-19

El director del Centro Nacional de Contraterrorismo de Estados Unidos anunció el martes su renuncia, citando preocupaciones sobre la justificación de los ataques militares contra Irán bajo el presidente Donald Trump. En redes sociales, Joe Kent dijo que Irán “no presentaba una amenaza inminente” y que “no puedo en buena conciencia” respaldar la guerra.

States rethink César Chavez Day amid allegations of abuse

2026-03-19

Events and observances honoring César Chávez, including César Chávez Day, are being renamed, postponed or canceled after allegations that he sexually abused women and girls while leading the United Farm Workers. The fallout has included decisions by state governments and local cities, as well as announcements that labor groups will not participate in events named after the former union leader.

Crypto and AI firms spend big in Illinois primaries and lose often

2026-03-19

The artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency industries spent millions of dollars through super PACs in Illinois Democratic primaries this week, seeking influence over how the technologies are regulated. According to campaign finance filings reviewed by The Associated Press, the groups poured money into multiple races but lost more often than they won, an early setback for tech firms trying to reshape midterm elections and establish political power.

FAA to use radar for helicopter-plane separation at busiest airports

2026-03-19

The Federal Aviation Administration said air traffic controllers will use radar to keep helicopters separated from airplanes by specific lateral or vertical distances at more than 150 of the nation’s busiest airports. The agency acted after a deadly Jan. 2025 midair collision near Washington, D.C., in which federal investigators said controllers relied too heavily on visual separation. Officials also cited recent near-misses in Texas and California.

Florida activists press to reunite rivers after abandoned canal plan

2026-03-19

Florida environmental advocates are renewing a push to open a dam linked to the long-abandoned Cross Florida Barge Canal, aiming to restore connections between the St. Johns and Ocklawaha rivers and improve conditions for fish and manatees. Their latest effort failed last week in the Legislature, when lawmakers did not pass a bill supporting a $70 million, multi-year restoration project.

Florida Air Force base on alert after suspicious package contained possible energetic materials

2026-03-19

Federal investigators said a suspicious package found outside a gate at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa contained “possible energetic materials,” prompting an initial shelter-in-place order and heightened security. The FBI said Wednesday that an analysis of the material had not been completed and that the investigation was continuing. MacDill officials said the order was lifted about two hours later but the base remained on high alert.

How to check airport security wait times as TSA goes unpaid

2026-03-19

Travelers facing long and unpredictable airport security lines amid a partial federal shutdown can check TSA wait times by using airport websites, terminals-by-terminal guidance, and timely social media updates. A former TSA wait-time app listing may not reflect current conditions, and third-party estimates can also lag during staffing strain and heavy spring break crowds.

Man sentenced to 4 years in Michigan petition-signature scandal

2026-03-19

A judge in suburban Detroit sentenced Shawn Wilmoth to at least four years in prison for an election petition scandal that blocked five Republican candidates from qualifying for Michigan’s 2022 gubernatorial primary ballot, according to the attorney general’s office. Wilmoth will be allowed to stay out of prison while he appeals his convictions for forgery and other crimes, the judge said. Perry Johnson, one of the candidates affected, said he is running again and plans to ask petition signers to confirm by text message.

Michigan group urges higher primary-care pay to shrink physician shortage

2026-03-19

Michigan State Medical Society leaders say the state can ease a severe shortage of primary-care doctors by expanding pay and reimbursements, which they say has contributed to long wait times, higher costs and missed care. In a 14-point plan released Tuesday, the group argues primary care takes too small a share of total medical spending and says Michigan is short at least 464 primary-care providers.

Paraguay ratifies Mercosur-EU free trade deal after long negotiations

2026-03-19

Paraguay’s lower house ratified the Mercosur-European Union free trade agreement on Tuesday, making it the final South American country to approve the pact. The European Commission said it will provisionally ratify the deal, which could take effect while European lawmakers’ legal challenge works its way through the European Court of Justice.

World Happiness Report ranks Finland happiest again as social media hurts youth

2026-03-19

The World Happiness Report 2026, released Thursday, says heavy social media use is linked to lower well-being among young people, with the biggest concerns in teenage girls in English-speaking countries and Western Europe. The report also ranks Finland the happiest country in the world for the ninth straight year.

Pam Bondi subpoenaed by Congress over Epstein files

2026-03-18

Attorney General Pam Bondi was subpoenaed Tuesday to testify before a Republican-led House committee about the Justice Department’s sex trafficking investigation of Jeffrey Epstein and the agency’s handling of millions of documents tied to Epstein files. The Committee on Oversight and Government Reform ordered Bondi to appear for a deposition April 14 after voting earlier this month, with five Republicans supporting the move.

Juliana Stratton wins Illinois Democratic Senate primary; faces Don Tracy

2026-03-18

Juliana Stratton, Illinois’ lieutenant governor, won Tuesday’s Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, edging two sitting House members to secure the nomination and a November general-election matchup against Republican Don Tracy, the former state party chair. The Illinois race became a test of the Democratic coalition as Gov. J.B. Pritzker backed Stratton and super PAC money poured into a crowded field.

Wisconsin lawmakers approve bill to let tribes offer online sports betting

2026-03-18

Wisconsin lawmakers gave final approval Tuesday to a bill that would allow the state’s tribal gambling sites to offer online sports betting to people anywhere in Wisconsin, if Gov. Tony Evers signs it. The measure would be contingent on new negotiations with the state’s American Indian tribes, and it would not take effect until those deals are completed.

Top U.S. counterterrorism official Joe Kent resigns over Iran war

2026-03-18

U.S. counterterrorism official Joe Kent resigned as director of the National Counterterrorism Center, saying he could not “in good conscience” support President Donald Trump’s war in Iran. Kent said Iran posed no imminent threat and that the war began under pressure from Israel, claims Trump has denied.

Republicans launch SAVE voting bill debate on Senate floor

2026-03-18

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans began a debate in the Senate on a bill that would require stricter voter registration rules, including proof of U.S. citizenship for new voters and identification at the polls, a move they are using to spotlight the legislation ahead of November’s midterms. The effort is expected to end in a failed vote despite President Donald Trump’s pressure on Republicans to act.

Democratic U.S. Senate race heats up as Mills targets Platner’s posts

2026-03-18

Mills campaign released a Tuesday video criticizing rival Graham Platner’s deleted online comments, which discussed sex and rape in the military. The attack comes as the Maine Democratic primary intensifies ahead of the race to challenge Republican Sen. Susan Collins.

Joe Kent resigns as Trump counterterrorism chief amid Iran dispute

2026-03-18

Joe Kent, director of the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center, resigned Tuesday, according to a resignation letter and reporting by The Associated Press. Kent’s departure comes amid a clash with President Donald Trump over Iran, where Kent said Iran “posed no imminent threat to our nation” and argued the war was driven by Israel and its U.S. supporters. Trump’s administration has said Trump reached a different conclusion about the threat posed by Iran.

Cuba blackout deepens crisis as Trump, Rubio urge political change

2026-03-18

Cuba plunged into darkness this week after a blackout that marked the third major power-grid failure since December, while U.S.-Cuba tensions intensified under President Donald Trump. The Associated Press reported that U.S. officials described the outages as a result of Cuban government failure, and Trump suggested on Monday he could “do anything I want” after Cuba’s current leaders. In Cuba, the outages and transportation shutdowns have disrupted food supplies and medical care, according to the report.

Trump, Rubio call for new Cuban leaders as blackouts worsen crisis

2026-03-18

Trump on Tuesday pledged “imminent” action against Cuba’s government as a new nationwide blackout underlines what he and Secretary of State Marco Rubio described as a deepening economic crisis. Speaking a day after U.S. sanctions on Venezuela included a halt to vital oil exports to Cuba, Trump said Cuba is “in very bad shape” and that “we’ll be doing something with Cuba very soon.”

Jurors to decide whether ex-FirstEnergy leaders paid $4.3M bribe

2026-03-18

Jurors in Akron, Ohio, began deliberating Tuesday in the corruption trial of two fired FirstEnergy Corp. executives accused of paying $4.3 million in alleged bribes tied to a bailout of two nuclear plants. The prosecution says the former leaders helped corrupt Ohio’s Public Utilities Commission chair-to-be, Sam Randazzo, ahead of legislation known as House Bill 6.

Alabama Supreme Court rules police can demand ID after unsatisfactory answers

2026-03-18

A Black pastor arrested in 2022 while watering a neighbor’s flowers had a charge dismissed, but a lawsuit over the stop-and-identify law continued. On March 17, 2026, the Alabama Supreme Court ruled police can demand to see identification during a stop if officers are dissatisfied with a person’s verbal answers. The ruling came in the case of Michael Jennings, whose police encounter began after a neighbor called 911.

El Salvador’s Bukele backs life sentences in constitutional change

2026-03-18

El Salvador’s Congress approved a constitutional amendment pushed by President Nayib Bukele on Tuesday that would allow life sentences for crimes including murder and rape, according to the Associated Press. The measure won support from 59 of 60 lawmakers and is set to be ratified next week.

Republicans press Senate on SAVE citizenship proof for new voters

2026-03-18

A Senate bill pushed by Senate Republicans would require new voters to prove U.S. citizenship when registering and to show approved identification at the polls, as part of an effort to increase federal oversight of elections. Democrats are expected to block the measure, known as the SAVE America Act, with critics warning it could disenfranchise voters who lack documents such as birth certificates.

Trump delays China trip to focus on war in Iran

2026-03-18

President Donald Trump said he is delaying a diplomatic trip to China planned for the end of the month, linking the decision to the war in Iran. Speaking with reporters and in the Oval Office with Ireland’s prime minister, Trump said he would “reset” the visit with Chinese President Xi Jinping and go “in five or six weeks’ time” rather than later this month.

Trump team pressures media to cover Iran war the administration’s way

2026-03-18

President Donald Trump and his aides have stepped up criticism of news coverage of the Middle East war, including public disputes over reporting and warnings from the Federal Communications Commission that broadcasters could lose licenses. The episode follows a contentious exchange on Air Force One and a warning from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr about broadcasters airing “fake news.”

Wisconsin Senate sends $133M PFAS package to Gov. Tony Evers

2026-03-18

Wisconsin lawmakers sent a $133 million package to tackle PFAS contamination, often called “forever chemicals,” to Gov. Tony Evers for his approval Tuesday. The Wisconsin Senate approved the bills as a rare bipartisan compromise after years of Democratic-Republican disputes over how to spend a PFAS trust fund.

Cornyn and Paxton remain in Texas GOP Senate runoff, Trump noncommittal

2026-03-18

The Republican Senate runoff in Texas will proceed after neither Sen. John Cornyn nor Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton met a Tuesday deadline to withdraw from the ballot. President Donald Trump has said he plans to endorse one of the two candidates this week, but he has not yet backed either entrant.

Last immigrant detained in Trump campus crackdown is freed on bond

2026-03-18

Just over a year after the Trump administration began an immigration enforcement campaign tied to pro-Palestinian activism on U.S. college campuses, Leqaa Kordia was released on Monday after a judge’s repeated orders were not resisted further. Kordia, a 33-year-old Palestinian woman and daughter of a U.S. citizen, had been held in detention since her arrest on March 13, 2025, in New Jersey.

Mamdani wants to stop city legal support for ex-Mayor Adams in sex suit

2026-03-18

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration wants to withdraw from representing former Mayor Eric Adams in a civil lawsuit accusing Adams of sexually assaulting a woman more than three decades ago, according to a court filing filed Tuesday. The city argues Adams was not acting within the scope of his employment when the alleged assault occurred in 1993, while Adams denies the allegations.

MTA sues Trump administration over withheld Second Avenue subway funds

2026-03-18

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority sued the Trump administration in federal court to restore nearly $60 million in withheld federal funding for extending the Second Avenue subway line in Manhattan, according to the complaint. The MTA said the U.S. Department of Transportation has withheld more than $58.6 million for the project and warned work could come to “a screeching halt” if the suspension continues.

West Virginia lawmakers pass bills to close foster care support gaps

2026-03-18

West Virginia lawmakers approved two bills aimed at closing gaps in foster care support after Mountain State Spotlight reported that the state was failing some older foster youth and kinship caregivers. The bills now await Gov. Patrick Morrisey’s signature, with lawmakers saying the changes are meant to expand access to independent living resources and tighten support for kinship parents.

Maine lawmakers consider fund to turn closed schools into housing

2026-03-18

Maine is evaluating legislation that would create a $5 million fund to help towns convert vacant, closed school buildings into housing, with benefits for some communities but complicated costs and financing questions for others. The proposal, which would be paired with work by the Maine Redevelopment Land Bank Authority, is expected to face further debate after committee action. In one example, Brooks voters on March 21 will decide whether to take over ownership of the former Morse Memorial Elementary School building and determine its next use.

Arizona files criminal charges against prediction market Kalshi

2026-03-18

Arizona became the first state to file criminal charges against prediction market company Kalshi, accusing it of operating an illegal gambling business within the state. The 20-count charging document alleges Kalshi accepted bets on political outcomes and college sporting and player performance, which Arizona says violates its gambling laws and election-betting ban.

Federal judge halts RFK Jr. vaccine agenda momentum as administration vows appeal

2026-03-18

A federal judge in Boston temporarily halted key steps in Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s vaccine agenda, issuing an order that said Kennedy disregarded long-standing government procedures for reconstituting a scientific committee that advises the CDC. The Trump administration said it will appeal, with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche calling the decisions “lawless” and writing on social media that the rulings have been reversed in the courts. The decision comes as Kennedy’s allies in the “medical freedom” movement celebrated earlier moves that Kennedy made soon after taking office.

Chief Justice Roberts urges halt to personal criticism of judges

2026-03-18

Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts warned Tuesday that personal criticism of federal judges is dangerous and “it’s got to stop,” two days after President Donald Trump attacked a federal judge who ruled against the administration. Speaking at Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy in Houston, Roberts said criticism tied to legal rulings “comes with the territory” but hostility directed at judges personally is “dangerous.”

Child care costs set to feature in midterm election ads

2026-03-18

Democrats will place new emphasis on child and elder care in some midterm advertising, as an advocacy group plans to spend $50 million on campaigns in multiple states, tying caregiving costs to broader affordability worries. The Campaign for a Family Friendly Economy said the push aims to make caregiver issues more central to voting decisions as families face rising child care expenses and growing waiting lists for federal child care subsidies.

Duval school board urged to stop prayer at meetings, legal groups say

2026-03-18

Two national church-state advocacy groups are urging the Duval County School Board in Florida to stop opening board meetings with prayer, citing a First Amendment violation. One group sent a letter after receiving a citizen complaint, while the other said it had also received a complaint about invited clergy leading prayers. The board chair, Charlotte Joyce, has opened meetings with evangelical Christian prayers since becoming chair in December 2024, according to the groups.

Gregory Bovino to retire soon as Border Patrol’s El Centro chief

2026-03-18

Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol commander who became a visible face of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement, told The Associated Press on March 17 that he plans to retire in the coming weeks. Bovino, 55, has led operations across multiple cities and later headed the agency’s El Centro, California, sector.

Trump says ex-president regretted not attacking Iran; exes deny contact

2026-03-18

President Donald Trump said Monday that a former U.S. president told him in a private Oval Office conversation that he wished he had attacked Iran in the manner Trump has pursued for about two weeks. Trump refused to name the former president, saying he did not want to embarrass him, but representatives for four living former presidents—Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Joe Biden—said none had been in contact with Trump recently.

Trump says predecessor regretted not attacking Iran; former presidents deny contact

2026-03-18

President Donald Trump said Tuesday that he had a private conversation in which a former Oval Office predecessor expressed regret about not attacking Iran the way Trump has done in recent weeks. Representatives for the four living former presidents—Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Joe Biden—said none has been in touch with Trump recently, the Associated Press reported.

Judge orders Texas to extend private-school voucher deadline to March 31

2026-03-18

A federal judge ordered Texas to extend the application deadline for private school vouchers to March 31 after the state excluded Islamic schools from the program. The deadline extension came Tuesday in response to a lawsuit filed earlier this month by Muslim parents and Islamic private schools challenging the exclusion as discriminatory. The state’s voucher program is administered by Comptroller Kelly Hancock, who said Islamic schools were blocked over alleged ties to foreign terrorist organizations.

Scottish Parliament rejects assisted dying bill for terminally ill adults

2026-03-16

Scottish lawmakers on Tuesday rejected legislation that would have allowed terminally ill adults in Scotland to seek help ending their lives. The vote in the Edinburgh-based Scottish Parliament was 69-57 against the bill, with one abstention, after a debate that lasted about three hours and included emotional exchanges among members.

UN rights report warns of displacement and settlement expansion in West Bank

2026-03-16

The U.N. human rights office warned that Israel’s actions in the occupied West Bank could amount to “ethnic cleansing,” citing accelerating settlement activity and forced displacement of Palestinians. In a report covering a yearlong period through the end of October, the office said more than 36,000 Palestinians were forcibly displaced. Israel’s diplomatic mission in Geneva rejected the findings as biased.

Trump’s DHS pick Mullin poised to inherit a department beset by challenges

2026-03-16

Markwayne Mullin, President Donald Trump’s pick to lead the Department of Homeland Security, would face immediate pressure on immigration enforcement and a congressional funding lapse if confirmed, Associated Press reported. The nomination comes as lawmakers argue over changes to Immigration and Customs Enforcement and as airports confront long security lines tied to a monthslong fight over DHS funding.

Iranian American social media creators explain the war for a U.S. audience

2026-03-16

Iranian American social media creators say Iran’s government-imposed internet blackout has curtailed reliable reporting from inside the country, shifting how the war is understood by many Americans. The Associated Press spoke with creators and academics who described how diaspora audiences fill the information vacuum, while censorship and fear of retaliation limit what people inside Iran can share.

Republicans resist Iran war hearings in Congress, sparking Democrat push

2026-03-16

The U.S. war with Iran has entered its third week, but Republicans in Congress have largely avoided public debates or hearings over the Trump administration’s case for the conflict, while Senate Democrats move to force lawmakers to take action. Democrats said they plan this week to push for votes tied to war powers, seeking to disrupt the Senate’s calendar and compel public testimony. “We haven’t had any oversight of what the Executive is doing while we’re spending $1,000 million a day, and we haven’t been able to have any debate or discussion that’s really substantive,” Sen. Cory Booker said.

France’s far right gains in first-round municipal elections ahead of runoff

2026-03-16

France’s far-right National Rally made gains in the first round of municipal elections in parts of southeastern France, while control of major cities including Paris remained undecided ahead of a runoff next Sunday. Voters cast ballots in about 35,000 villages, towns and cities, with turnout just over 57% and with final mayor selections largely settled in the first round where only one or two candidates competed.

College Republicans sue UF president, alleging antisemitism-related free speech violation

2026-03-16

College Republicans sued the University of Florida’s president in federal court, saying the university unlawfully deactivated its campus chapter after being notified that at least one member engaged in an antisemitic act. In the lawsuit filed Monday, the group asked a judge to halt the enforcement of the decision and to restore access to campus facilities. A university spokeswoman said the school does not comment on pending litigation.

Cuban activist Yoani Sánchez says police block her from leaving home

2026-03-16

Cuban activist Yoani Sánchez said an officer in civilian clothes was stopping her from leaving her Havana home, citing a rights violation. The accusation came after a protest in the city of Morón partially destroyed the local headquarters of Cuba’s ruling Communist Party.

Relatively few have fled Iran so far, but experts warn that could change

2026-03-15

KAPIKOY BORDER CROSSING, Turkey — After bombs hit her home in Iran’s eastern city of Golestan, hairdresser Merve Pourkaz said she traveled nearly 1,500 kilometers to reach the Turkish border in hopes of staying in the nearby city of Van until the war ends. While the U.N. refugee agency estimates 3.2 million people have been displaced within Iran since the U.S.-Israel war with Iran began, AP reported relatively few have fled Iran through Turkey so far, and experts warn that may change if fighting intensifies.

Aid groups warn of humanitarian crisis in Lebanon as war displaces 800,000

2026-03-15

War has already displaced nearly a million Lebanese, with aid groups warning of a humanitarian crisis as Israel’s strikes and evacuation orders force families into overcrowded shelters, tents and stadium corridors. In just 10 days after mass evacuations began, more than 800,000 people fled within Lebanon, aid organizations said.

GOP SAVE Act documents requirement could burden voters, advocate warns

2026-03-15

The Associated Press reports a New Hampshire voter struggled when poll workers required “proof of citizenship” documents under a new state law, highlighting potential complications if the Republican-backed SAVE America Act passes Congress. The bill cleared the U.S. House last month and is scheduled for Senate debate next week, with opponents arguing the documentary requirements could delay or prevent eligible Americans from registering and voting in federal elections.

How mixed messaging on Iran may have Trump reeling politically

2026-03-15

President Donald Trump has faced mounting political backlash two weeks into the U.S. and Israel strikes on Iran, as public anxiety over American deaths, surging oil prices and market turbulence has complicated his messaging about how the conflict began and how it will end, Associated Press reported on March 15. The AP also described Democrats rallying to argue that higher costs undermine Republican promises and that Moscow gained early leverage after Trump eased some sanctions.

Judge blocks US changes to vaccine recommendations for children

2026-03-15

Federal judge Brian E. Murphy on March 16 temporarily blocked U.S. health officials from cutting the number of vaccines recommended for every child and said Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. likely violated federal procedures in reshaping the vaccine advisory panel. The order halted decisions by the reconstituted Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and postponed a meeting of the panel in Atlanta this week.

Republicans resist public hearings on Iran war, prompting Democratic standoff

2026-03-15

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. war with Iran is entering its third week without Congress holding public hearings to test President Donald Trump’s case for the conflict, according to Senate and committee leaders. Democrats say they will use procedural tools to force floor votes on war-powers resolutions unless Trump administration officials agree to public testimony.

Aid groups warn of looming humanitarian crisis as Lebanon war displaces 800,000+

2026-03-15

War has displaced more than 800,000 people in Lebanon in a little over a week, according to the Norwegian Refugee Council, and aid groups warn the country is sliding toward a humanitarian crisis. The displacement is driven by Israeli airstrikes and evacuation orders that have forced families out of homes in Beirut’s southern suburbs and across parts of the country.

Judge temporarily blocks changes to U.S. childhood vaccine recommendations

2026-03-15

A federal judge on Monday temporarily blocked the U.S. health department from cutting the number of vaccines recommended for most children, pausing parts of a policy overhaul led by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The ruling also put on hold a Kennedy-appointed advisory committee’s work, including a meeting in Atlanta that was scheduled for this week.

Republicans resist public hearings on Iran war, Democrats threaten floor votes

2026-03-15

Congress has yet to hold public hearings to test the Trump administration’s case for the U.S. war with Iran, as the conflict enters its third week. Republicans in Congress have largely sidestepped calls for public testimony, while Senate Democrats threaten to force votes this week on war powers measures.

Wealthy Georgian could challenge Trump-backed Burt Jones for Georgia GOP nod

2026-03-15

Burt Jones, the current Georgia lieutenant governor and a Republican governor nominee backed by President Donald Trump, is facing a serious challenge from health care entrepreneur Rick Jackson ahead of the May 19 Republican primary election. The Associated Press reported that Jackson entered the race in February and began flooding Georgia with political ads funded by more than $30 million of his own money.

Wealthy Georgian could wrest GOP governor nomination from Trump's pick

2026-03-15

ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia’s Republican governor race is upended by a late entry from health care executive Rick Jackson, who says he will make himself a direct mirror of President Donald Trump. Jackson’s spending blitz, his use of Trump-linked messaging, and ensuing lawsuits have left incumbent lieutenant governor Burt Jones leaning heavily on Trump’s endorsement heading into the May 19 election.

GOP leaders give tepid pushback as anti-Muslim rhetoric in party rises

2026-03-15

WASHINGTON — Anti-Muslim rhetoric from some Republicans in Congress intensified this week against the backdrop of the Iran war, with Democrats condemning remarks that targeted Muslims and called for stronger responses from Republican leaders. The surge followed attacks including a vehicle attack at Temple Israel in Michigan and a shooting at Old Dominion University in Virginia, Reuters said, and it sharpened after comments by Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville and Tennessee Rep. Andy Ogles.

Doctors warn against taping mouth shut for better sleep

2026-03-15

Social media has promoted a “mouth tape” trend in which people tape their mouths shut at night to sleep better, reduce snoring and improve breathing, but doctors say the idea is not supported by strong evidence. Experts warn that taping could cause harm, including worsening sleep apnea or creating a suffocation risk, and they advise addressing the reason someone is mouth-breathing.

Doctors warn against mouth taping promoted online for better sleep

2026-03-15

Some people are taping their mouths shut at night, hoping to sleep better or reduce snoring, but doctors say the practice is risky and not supported by strong evidence. In an interview, a neurologist and sleep medicine expert said the studies behind mouth taping are small and the benefits modest, while potential harms include worsening sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or causing suffocation. The safest approach, doctors said, is to find out why someone is breathing through the mouth at night and get appropriate treatment.

Fewer Iranians have fled so far, but Turkey and Europe brace for more

2026-03-15

Relatively few Iranians have fled the war in the country so far, but the United Nations and migration experts warn that displacement could accelerate if fighting drags on. At Turkey’s Kapikoy border crossing, displaced Iranians have described weighing whether to leave and what it would mean to return.

GOP SAVE Act would require proof of citizenship documents, raising hurdles

2026-03-15

The House has cleared a Republican voting bill that would require voters to provide documentary proof of U.S. citizenship to register for federal elections, a change that could affect millions of Americans, according to advocates. The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility, or SAVE America Act, now heads to the Senate for voting and debate next week, after clearing the House last month.

White House proposes underground screening center for visitor checks

2026-03-15

The White House wants to build an underground visitor screening center on the grounds, a step in President Donald Trump’s plan to overhaul parts of the area around the White House. Plans for a 33,000-square-foot facility were included in a preliminary agenda for an April meeting of a federal commission that approves construction on federal land in Washington.

Judge rules Joyce Beatty can attend Kennedy Center board meeting, not vote

2026-03-15

A federal judge ruled that Rep. Joyce Beatty is entitled to participate in a Kennedy Center board meeting to discuss President Donald Trump’s plan to close the performing arts center for two years of renovations. The judge ordered the board to provide her with documents about the closure and renovation plans ahead of Monday’s session but stopped short of requiring that she be allowed to vote.

Airline CEOs urge Congress to fund DHS amid shutdown and pay TSA staff

2026-03-15

The CEOs of major U.S. airlines urged Congress to restore funding to the Department of Homeland Security and find a bipartisan solution to pay federal aviation workers during a partial government shutdown. In an open letter, the executives also asked lawmakers to advance legislation they say would protect air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration officers from future funding lapses.

Lindsey Graham’s Iran push tests the GOP ahead of Congress vote

2026-03-15

More than a decade after first pressing for a confrontation with Iran, Sen. Lindsey Graham filed Monday for a fifth term, with President Donald Trump’s support and a prolonged U.S. war in the Middle East now shaping his campaign. Graham told supporters he spoke to Trump Sunday night and Monday morning and said, “We haven’t underestimated Iran at all. We’re crushing them.”

US, Mexico and Canada kick off talks to renew USMCA trade pact

2026-03-15

Negotiations to renew the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) begin Monday between U.S. and Mexican trade officials, with Canada expected to join later, as Washington presses for changes and the three countries weigh whether the pact can survive a fast-moving political climate. The USMCA took effect July 1, 2020, and under the agreement’s renewal process, the pact must be renewed by 2036 or it expires.

Trump mass deportations at crossroads with DHS shake-up

2026-03-15

The Trump administration’s incoming leadership at the Department of Homeland Security is becoming a focus for lawmakers as Republicans weigh how to carry out the president’s mass-deportation agenda. A Senate confirmation process for President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the department—Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma—adds urgency to questions about whether immigration enforcement will change or expand. The debate is unfolding as the administration aims to remove about 1 million immigrants from the United States this year while Democrats seek limits on routine funding.

Supreme Court to hear case on ending TPS protections for Haiti, Syria

2026-03-15

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments in April over a Trump administration push to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) protections for people from Haiti and Syria, the Supreme Court said. On Monday, the court declined to immediately lift the protections for hundreds of thousands of people, allowing them to live and work in the U.S. legally while the case proceeds.

Trump extends Jones Act waiver for 90 days as Iran war disrupts energy

2026-03-15

The Trump administration said it will extend a waiver on the Jones Act for another 90 days, citing fallout from the war in Iran that has roiled energy markets and supply chains. The Jones Act, a law passed in 1920, generally requires cargo shipped between U.S. ports to move on U.S.-flagged vessels.

National security firings and resignations strain counterterrorism system

2026-03-15

Federal authorities are investigating multiple recent attacks they say reflect an elevated terrorism threat as the U.S. deals with the backdrop of the Iran war and a reshaped counterterrorism workforce at the FBI and Justice Department. In the past week, incidents in New York, Michigan and Virginia have raised concerns about the government’s ability to identify and disrupt threats early, even as officials said there is no indication the attackers were motivated explicitly by the Iran war. The AP’s report traces those concerns to departures of experienced national security personnel and shifting resources inside the FBI and DOJ.

Ecuador deploys 75,000 troops under nighttime curfew in crime provinces

2026-03-15

Ecuadorian officials said they deployed 75,000 soldiers and police to four crime-ridden provinces to enforce a nightly curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. The curfew began Sunday night in Guayas, El Oro, Los Ríos and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas and is expected to last two weeks, officials said.

Bolsonaro’s kidney function worsens in ICU; pneumonia stabilized, hospital says

2026-03-15

Jair Bolsonaro, a former Brazilian president, has had his kidney function worsen after he was transferred to an intensive care unit in Brasilia, according to a hospital statement. The hospital said his pneumonia was stabilized, and it described his condition as serious but stable while he receives treatment following symptoms that included high fever and low oxygen.

Ex-wife told police man who attacked synagogue was suicidal

2026-03-15

A 911 call to Dearborn Heights, Michigan, included a former wife telling police that Ayman Ghazali was “suicidal,” a TV station reported March 16. Federal authorities have said Ghazali drove a pickup truck into Temple Israel and exchanged gunfire with a guard, killing himself inside the vehicle.

HRW says Salvador deportees detained in El Salvador and disappeared

2026-03-15

El Salvador has arbitrarily detained people it received after deporting them from the United States, and some have disappeared into the prison system, according to a Human Rights Watch report released Monday. The report says Salvadorans deported since January 2025 have been held without family contact or access to lawyers, including at the Central American country’s CECOT prison.

Prominent Belarus opposition figure Maria Kolesnikova belatedly receives Charlemagne prize

2026-03-15

Maria Kolesnikova received the International Charlemagne Prize in Aachen, Germany, on Saturday, an award she had won in 2022 but could not collect while imprisoned in Belarus, the Associated Press reported. Kolesnikova was released in December with dozens of other political prisoners as part of a U.S. deal that lifted sanctions on Belarusian fertilizer exports, AP said.

Thousands protest in Italy and Spain over Middle East wars and judicial reforms

2026-03-15

Thousands of people protested Saturday in Rome and across Spain against wars in the Middle East and against judicial reforms proposed by Italy’s conservative government, as a national referendum on the changes approaches. Protesters also linked international tensions to a growing domestic political battle ahead of Italy’s next election year, according to the Associated Press.

Trinidad and Tobago extends state of emergency for three months

2026-03-15

Trinidad and Tobago’s government has received House of Representatives approval to extend a state of emergency for three months over crime, according to an Associated Press report. The measure, approved late Friday in a 26-12 vote, allows additional powers including arrests and searches without warrants.

White House war promo blends pop culture imagery with combat footage

2026-03-15

The White House has released social media videos promoting its newly launched war with Iran that blend real combat footage with clips and imagery from movies, video games and sports, drawing criticism from artists and religious leaders. The Associated Press reported on the backlash after two performers said their work was used without permission and after Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago said the posts treat deadly conflict like entertainment.

Anti-war protests draw link to Italy judges referendum and wider Middle East conflict

2026-03-15

Thousands of protesters staged anti-war demonstrations in Italy and Spain on Saturday, linking tensions in the Middle East with a looming referendum on changes to Italy’s judicial system. In central Rome, marchers held trade union banners and displayed Palestinian and Cuban flags as they protested Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government.

Ex-wife told police attacker sounded suicidal in 911 call

2026-03-15

A 911 call to Dearborn Heights police described the man who drove a pickup truck into a Detroit-area synagogue as suicidal, according to a TV station report. The attack happened around the same time the call was placed on Thursday, when Ayman Ghazali attacked Temple Israel and its early childhood learning center in West Bloomfield Township.

Firings strain FBI, DOJ as terrorism threats loom amid Iran war

2026-03-15

The FBI and Justice Department face increased strain as recent violence in the United States has underscored heightened terrorism threats amid the U.S. war with Iran, according to an Associated Press report. The past week included attacks in New York City, Michigan and Virginia, which federal authorities tied to threats driven by violent extremist ideology or lone-actor dynamics.

Illinois primary Tuesday features Durbin seat race, crowded House bids

2026-03-15

Illinois voters vote Tuesday in a state primary that includes the race to succeed retiring Democratic U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and contests for governor, the U.S. House and the state Legislature. The primaries come as candidates seek comebacks, longtime incumbents retire, and the 2028 presidential campaign looms. Polls close at 7 p.m. local time, or 8 p.m. ET.

Judge orders Beatty to get Kennedy Center renovation details before board meeting

2026-03-15

A federal judge ruled Saturday that Ohio Rep. Joyce Beatty is entitled to participate in a Kennedy Center board meeting to discuss President Donald Trump’s plan to close the performing arts center for two years of renovations. U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper said Beatty should receive documents about the closure and renovation plans before Monday’s session so she can perform her role as a trustee.

Justice Dept. moves to dismiss flag-burning charges against veteran

2026-03-15

The Justice Department has moved to dismiss charges against an Army veteran accused of burning an American flag near the White House in August 2025, according to a court filing. Jay Carey, 55, of Arden, North Carolina, was arrested after setting fire to a flag in Lafayette Park, an area overseen by the National Park Service.

Lindsey Graham files for reelection as Iran war debate reshapes GOP

2026-03-15

Senator Lindsey Graham filed Monday to run for a fifth term in South Carolina, as the U.S. conflict with Iran remains deeply unpopular and fighting spreads across the Middle East. Graham told supporters he spoke with President Donald Trump on Sunday night and Monday morning while defending his push for the U.S. to take on Iran directly.

Supreme Court to hear challenge to migrant protections for Haitians, Syrians

2026-03-15

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments in April on the Trump administration’s effort to end temporary legal protections for migrants from Haiti and Syria, a case that could affect hundreds of thousands of people. The court also declined to immediately lift the protections on Monday, allowing recipients to continue living and working in the United States legally while the litigation proceeds.

Trump administration extends Jones Act waiver for 90 days amid Iran war

2026-03-15

The Trump administration said it is extending a waiver of the Jones Act for another 90 days, citing the continuing war in Iran and its impact on energy markets and supply chains. The waiver applies to the century-old shipping law that generally requires cargo between U.S. ports to be moved on U.S.-flagged vessels.

Trump faces pressure on mass deportations as DHS nominee heads to hearings

2026-03-15

President Donald Trump is facing new pressure over his mass-deportation agenda as Republicans consider a nominee to take over the Department of Homeland Security after Kristi Noem leaves, the Associated Press reported. The issue is set to become a focus this week when Sen. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma appears for Senate confirmation hearings.

White House war promo videos mix pop culture and combat footage

2026-03-15

The Trump administration has released a series of war-themed promo videos on the White House’s social media feed that mix pop culture clips, video game imagery and sports highlights with declassified combat footage related to the Iran war, according to Associated Press reporting. The videos, posted after the war’s launch, have drawn criticism from artists whose likenesses appear in the posts and from U.S. Catholic leaders.

U.S. seeks to dismiss charges against veteran who burned flag outside White House

2026-03-15

The Justice Department moved to dismiss charges against Army veteran Jay Carey, who set fire to an American flag near the White House last year as a protest of President Donald Trump’s executive order on flag burning, according to a court filing. Federal prosecutors had charged Carey with two misdemeanor offenses not directly focused on flag burning, after he was arrested Aug. 25 in Lafayette Park, where the National Park Service has jurisdiction.

US judge pauses end of TPS protections for some Somali immigrants

2026-03-15

A U.S. judge in Massachusetts temporarily paused the termination of Temporary Protected Status for immigrants from Somalia, averting a planned end of the designation on Tuesday. The judge said letting the TPS status expire would have “weighty” consequences, after advocates sought an emergency order. The ruling keeps TPS recipients and people with pending TPS applications eligible for work authorization and protection against deportation and detention while the court reviews the emergency motion.

White House proposes underground screening center for visitor security

2026-03-15

The White House wants to build an underground visitor security screening center beneath Sherman Park, the Associated Press reported. Plans for a 33,000-square-foot facility would be considered at an April meeting of a federal commission that approves construction on federal land in Washington.

California election officials probe San Francisco signature collectors

2026-03-15

California election officials said they are investigating whether signature collectors in San Francisco illegally offered money to people to sign ballot petitions using false names. The probe follows a video posted on X that shows a sign offering “$5” for signatures and a worker instructing what name and address to use. The California secretary of state’s office said it was “aware of, and investigating, the matter.”

Minnesota bill would ban most reverse location warrants for police

2026-03-15

Minnesota lawmakers are considering bills that would largely outlaw reverse location warrants—sometimes called geofence warrants—that let law enforcement obtain data about devices present near a crime scene. The proposals come as the U.S. Supreme Court weighs the constitutionality of similar warrants, which critics say can capture information about thousands of people beyond any suspect.

State Department cuts fee for renouncing U.S. citizenship by 80% to $450

2026-03-15

The U.S. State Department has reduced by about 80% the fee Americans pay to formally renounce their U.S. citizenship, cutting it from $2,350 to $450. The change, set by a final rule published in the Federal Register, takes effect April 13, after a period when the lower fee was previously promised in 2023 but not implemented.

Minnesota lawmakers propose ban on reverse-location warrants

2026-03-15

Minnesota lawmakers are considering legislation to prohibit “reverse location warrants,” also known as “geofence” or “dragnet” warrants, after a judge’s order lets police collect location and device data near a crime scene and then work backward to identify suspects. The proposal comes as the U.S. Supreme Court weighs the constitutionality of similar warrants. During a Senate hearing on March 9, Sen. Erin Maye Quade said the bills aim to balance public safety with constitutional rights.

California Probes Illegal Payments in San Francisco Ballot Petitions

2026-03-15

California election officials are investigating video evidence showing petition gatherers offering money for signatures in San Francisco. The video appears to show collectors paying people to sign petitions with false names, a practice illegal under state law.

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine says he left the country

2026-03-15

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine said he fled the country to avoid a military search after a disputed presidential election. In a video posted on X on Saturday, Wine said he would leave Uganda for “critical engagements outside Uganda” and would return when the time is right, without disclosing where he is.

Hawaii bill would ease charging of weekend school trespassers

2026-03-15

Lawmakers in Hawaii are weighing a bill that would make it easier to charge people who enter school grounds on weekends or holidays without a prior warning, potentially affecting parents seeking after-hours access to playgrounds and fields. The measure, Senate Bill 2611, is awaiting a House hearing after passing the Senate, and supporters say it would improve safety and reduce harassment of school staff.

‘Unbelievably cruel’: Advocates decry Lamont bid to end Connecticut home care

2026-03-15

Connecticuts Gov. Ned Lamont has proposed ending the Community First Choice home care program, which allows eligible Medicaid recipients to choose and manage their in-home attendants. Advocates and families argued Monday that the plan would increase wait times for waiver services and force some people into institutional care. The proposal, they said, threatens autonomy gained through a program they described as working and saving money.

Palestinian protester Leqaa Kordia released from U.S. immigration detention

2026-03-15

Leqaa Kordia, a 33-year-old Palestinian woman who had been held in U.S. immigration detention in Texas since last March, was released Monday after about a year in custody following immigration judge rulings that ordered her release on bond. Her case became part of a broader crackdown tied to pro-Palestinian activism on U.S. college campuses after the Trump administration’s 2025 actions, the Associated Press reported.

Families of two kidnapped Haitian journalists plead for information

2026-03-15

Families of two Haitian journalists kidnapped last week in Port-au-Prince asked Monday for information about their whereabouts, with some relatives fearing gangs had killed them. The two reporters, Junior Célestin of Radio Télévision Megastar and Osnel Espérance of Radio Uni FM, were taken while working in an area controlled by the Viv Ansanm gang coalition, according to Radio Uni FM.

Kast begins work on “Border Shield” barrier to curb illegal immigration

2026-03-15

Chile’s newly inaugurated President José Antonio Kast has begun preparations for a border barrier in the country’s north, part of his “Border Shield” plan to stop illegal immigration. Less than a week after taking office, he said the effort is meant to close Chile’s border to illegal immigration, drug trafficking and organized crime.

Energy secretary orders Sable Offshore to restore California operations

2026-03-15

WASHINGTON — U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright directed Texas-based Sable Offshore Corp. to restore oil and gas operations in waters off southern California damaged by a 2015 spill, invoking the Defense Production Act, according to a department release. The order targets Sable Offshore’s Santa Ynez unit and pipeline system off Santa Barbara.

3 more members of Iran women soccer team leave Australia

2026-03-15

Three more members of Iran’s women’s soccer team who accepted refugee visas to stay in Australia have decided to return to Iran, an Australian minister said Sunday. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said the departures leave three of an initial seven squad members in Australia.

AP photographer’s long-exposure image imagines blind people ‘seeing’ art

2026-03-15

Alessandra Tarantino, an Associated Press photographer in Rome, described how she created an “extraordinary photo” inspired by Picasso to depict the idea of “tactile image” through touch. The image was made in a darkened museum room after the Museo Tattile Omero in Italy’s Omero museum closed for the night, using a small LED light and a long exposure as a blind visitor explored the face of Michelangelo’s David. Tarantino explained that she developed the concept through inclusive tours in Rome organized by Radici and in consultation with a blind woman she followed during the museum’s tactile experience.

5 arrested in central Cuba after protest targets communist party HQ

2026-03-15

A protest in central Cuba that partially destroyed a local communist party headquarters ended with five arrests, authorities said. The Cuban government linked the demonstration to the country’s severe energy crisis, including fuel shortages that have led to blackouts and reduced power generation.

Afghan immigrant dies in Texas hospital after ICE detention

2026-03-15

An Afghan man who had worked with the U.S. military died at a Texas hospital after immigration authorities detained him, according to federal officials and a family statement. Dallas County Medical Examiner staff said the cause of death was still pending as investigators reviewed the case after the detention began last week.

Fake farms get tax breaks, but Hawaii can’t stop them yet

2026-03-15

Hawaiʻi lawmakers are considering a bill to define what qualifies as a “farm,” aiming to separate bona fide agricultural operations from landowners seeking tax benefits. The proposal would direct major state agriculture agencies to use a tiered system based on output, size, function and other factors. Advocates say clearer rules could help legitimate farmers, but they warn the approach could add burdens for small operators.

Federal authorities arrest lobbyist on extortion charge in New York

2026-03-15

Federal authorities in New York arrested and charged lobbyist Joshua Nass with attempted extortion, federal prosecutors said. Prosecutors allege Nass sought $500,000 from a former client and tried to intimidate the client’s son using a confidential witness. Nass appeared Saturday before a magistrate judge in Brooklyn and was released on $5 million bond.

Group chats come with their own, often unspoken, etiquette

2026-03-15

Group chats have become part of everyday communication, but etiquette experts say the rules are often implicit and easy to miss. Rupert Wesson, a director at Debrett’s, said people should think about how messages affect recipients, keep chats aligned with their purpose, and use caution in workplace groups where messages can be forwarded.

Iranian women’s soccer team leaves Malaysia for Oman after asylum reversal

2026-03-15

Iranian women’s soccer players who had sought asylum in Australia reversed course and left Malaysia for Oman on Monday night, ending days of uncertainty in Kuala Lumpur, the Associated Press reported. The team’s departure followed a period in which five of seven squad members who had sparked a diplomatic dispute in Australia rejoined the rest of the team, while two players remained in Australia with government support.

Kennedy Center to shut down for two years, installs Matt Floca

2026-03-15

The Kennedy Center’s board voted Monday to shut down operations for two years, saying it will do so following this summer’s July 4 celebrations. The decision also includes installing Matt Floca as the center’s chief executive and executive director, replacing Richard Grenell.

Laurel residents organize to block Montana’s proposed 32-bed forensic facility

2026-03-15

Residents in Laurel, Montana, have organized to oppose a proposed state psychiatric forensic facility that would hold 32 patients and is intended to treat people in the criminal justice system. The facility’s planned location near the town’s west side has prompted residents to file petitions, draft emergency ordinances, and seek records from city and state officials, amid a city council meeting where organizers asked lawmakers to intervene.

Lyft settlement in Minnesota requires service-animal accommodations nationwide

2026-03-15

Lyft will ensure that blind and other disabled passengers can ride with service animals under a settlement announced in Minnesota, the Associated Press reported. The agreement was reached after a state investigation found that Lyft drivers refused a college student’s service dog. The settlement also includes driver training and updates to the Lyft app so the terms apply nationwide, not only in Minnesota.

New era dawns for towns once run by imprisoned Warren Jeffs’ FLDS

2026-03-15

Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah—two towns long controlled by the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—have entered a period of largely normal civic life after years of court supervision ended last summer. The towns were reorganized after federal authorities argued that they were run as an arm of the sect and that non-followers were denied basic services.

Richard Grenell to step down as Kennedy Center president

2026-03-15

Richard Grenell, an ally of President Donald Trump who oversaw sweeping changes at the Kennedy Center, will step down as the performing arts center’s president. Trump announced the move Friday, saying Matt Floca will succeed Grenell and that the change is expected to be finalized at a board meeting Monday at the White House.

University of Florida deactivates College Republicans over antisemitism

2026-03-15

The University of Florida said it is deactivating the campus College Republicans as a registered student group after being notified that some members engaged in antisemitism. The school said the Florida Federation of College Republicans disbanded the local chapter after determining members violated the federation’s rules and values.

US judge pauses end of protected status for Somali immigrants

2026-03-15

A U.S. district judge in Massachusetts temporarily paused the termination of Temporary Protected Status for some Somali immigrants, setting an administrative stay as both sides prepare for further court briefing. The decision means people with TPS status or pending TPS applications retain protections, including eligibility for work authorization and protection against deportation and detention, while the case proceeds.

What to expect in the Illinois state primary as Durbin retires

2026-03-15

Illinois will hold primaries Tuesday that set up nomination contests across a full slate of state and federal races, including Democratic U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin’s open seat. The Associated Press voting guidance highlights key dates, poll-closing time and rules for winner declarations as Democrats and Republicans pick nominees for governor, Senate and U.S. House races.

Bolsonaro's kidney function worsens, pneumonia stabilizes in ICU

2026-03-15

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, serving a 27‑year prison sentence for a 2023 coup attempt, was moved to the intensive‑care unit of Brasília’s DF Star Hospital on Saturday, where doctors said his kidney function had deteriorated but his pneumonia remained serious yet stable. The hospital noted rising inflammatory markers since treatment began and confirmed bronchopneumonia likely caused by aspiration. Bolsonaro’s son Flávio Bolsonaro told reporters the former president was “stable,” though not improving.

Belarus opposition leader Maria Kolesnikova receives Charlemagne Prize in Germany

2026-03-15

Prominent Belarus opposition figure Maria Kolesnikova traveled to Aachen, Germany, on Saturday to collect the International Charlemagne Prize she was awarded in 2022 while behind bars. The flautist‑turned‑activist, a leading face of the 2020 mass protests against President Alexander Lukashenko, received the award for “extraordinary courage” in defending democratic rights and free elections. She was released from prison in December 2025 after a U.S.–brokered deal lifted sanctions on Belarusian fertilizer exports.

Chile's President Kast Starts Work on Border Shield Barrier Within Days of Inauguration

2026-03-15

Chilean President José Antonio Kast moved quickly after taking office, overseeing the first ground‑breakings for a new “Border Shield” barrier on March 16, 2026. The project, aimed at stopping illegal immigration, drug trafficking and organized crime, was announced from the desert frontier of Chacalluta in the country’s far north. Kast told reporters the construction marked “a milestone for all of Chile.”

Bolsonaro moved to semi‑intensive care as health improves, wife says

2026-03-15

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was transferred from an intensive‑care unit to a semi‑intensive ward on Monday after his condition improved, his wife Michelle announced on Instagram. The 70‑year‑old ex‑leader, who is serving a 27‑year prison term for a 2023 coup attempt, had been hospitalized for pneumonia since Friday, the hospital said.

Five arrested after residents protest at Cuba's central communist headquarters

2026-03-15

Residents of a city in central Cuba took to the streets early Saturday, partially destroying the local headquarters of the ruling Communist Party. Authorities said five people were arrested in the demonstration, which they linked to the island’s ongoing energy shortages and food‑access problems.

Afghan veteran who aided U.S. dies in Texas ICE custody within 24 hours of detention

2026-03-15

Mohommad Nazeer Paktyawal, a 41‑year‑old Afghan who served alongside U.S. special forces, died at Parkland Hospital in Dallas on March 16, 2026 less than 24 hours after being taken into ICE custody. Federal officials said Paktyawal was arrested on fraud and theft charges, but his family and a local resettlement group disputed the government’s characterization and said the former baker was healthy when he arrived at the detention center. U.S. Rep. Julie Johnson, who visited the Dallas ICE field office, called the death “unanswered” and questioned why Paktyawal was targeted.

Hawaii moves to define farms amid concerns over tax‑break “gentleman farmers”

2026-03-15

Hawaii legislators are drafting a bill that would create a tiered classification system for farms, aiming to curb tax breaks enjoyed by “gentleman farmers” who own land zoned for agriculture but produce little or nothing. Senate Bill 2153, introduced by Sen. Tim Richards, would require the state’s agriculture agencies to assess farms based on output, size, community value and environmental stewardship, officials said. Critics worry the new rules could burden small‑scale growers while larger operations continue to dominate the islands’ agricultural landscape.

Connecticut advocates decry Lamont proposal to end home care program

2026-03-15

Advocates in Connecticut criticized a proposal by Gov. Ned Lamont to end the Community First Choice home care program, saying the change would mean longer waits and less choice for people who rely on home-based services. The program, which is funded through Medicaid, provides funds so eligible families can hire attendants to help with daily activities. Lamont’s plan would transition people to Medicaid “waiver” programs, which the governor’s budget office says have waitlists.

Departamento de Estado baja 80% la tarifa para renunciar a la ciudadanía

2026-03-15

El Departamento de Estado de Estados Unidos recortó aproximadamente 80% la tarifa que cobra a quienes desean renunciar formalmente a su ciudadanía, tras una batalla legal sobre el costo del proceso. La norma final publicada en el Federal Register reduce el precio de 2.350 a 450 dólares. El nuevo arancel entra en vigor el 13 de abril.

Ecuador deploys 75,000 soldiers for nightly curfew in four provinces

2026-03-15

Ecuadorian officials said the government is deploying 75,000 soldiers and police to four crime-ridden provinces and imposing a nightly curfew intended to reduce drug-violence-related crime. The curfew, banning people from leaving home from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., began Sunday night in Guayas, El Oro, Los Rios and Santo Domingo de los Tsachilas.

Energy Secretary Orders Texas Oil Firm to Restart California Operations

2026-03-15

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright on Friday directed Texas‑based Sable Offshore Corp. to resume operations of its Santa Ynez oil unit and pipeline network off southern California, invoking the Defense Production Act. The order aims to mitigate supply‑disruption risks and bolster West‑coast energy security, officials said.

Haiti journalists’ families plead for information on abducted reporters

2026-03-15

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti, March 16 (AP) — The families of two Haitian journalists who were reported kidnapped last week pleaded Monday for information about them, with many fearing gangs had killed them. The journalists, Junior Célestin of Radio Télévision Megastar and Osnel Espérance of Radio Uni FM, were taken in downtown Port-au-Prince on Friday, Radio Uni FM said.

Human rights report says US-deported Salvadorans are arbitrarily detained

2026-03-15

Human Rights Watch said Salvadorans deported from the United States have been arbitrarily detained in El Salvador and have disappeared into the prison system, according to a report released Monday. The group said it interviewed relatives and lawyers of people deported between March and October 2025 who were immediately detained after arriving in El Salvador.

Iranian women’s team leaves Malaysia for Oman after asylum reversal

2026-03-15

Iranian women’s soccer players left Malaysia on Monday night for Oman, ending days of uncertainty after five of seven squad members who sought asylum in Australia reversed course and rejoined the team in Kuala Lumpur, an Associated Press report said. The players boarded a flight arranged by the Iranian embassy after spending several hours at Kuala Lumpur’s airport, according to the report.

Laurel residents rally to block state psychiatric facility on town’s edge

2026-03-15

Residents of Laurel, Montana, gathered in early March to demand that the state halt plans for a 32‑bed forensic psychiatric facility on a 114‑acre parcel west of town. The proposal, backed by Gov. Greg Gianforte’s administration to ease a jail backlog, has ignited “rage, suspicion and fear” among locals who worry about safety, property values and a loss of tax revenue. Community organizer Shawna Hopper has filed a recall petition against Mayor Dave Waggoner, while city officials and state health officials trade accusations over site selection and public outreach.

Lyft settlement in Minnesota requires service-animal access nationwide

2026-03-15

Lyft will ensure blind and other disabled passengers can ride with their service animals under a settlement announced in Minnesota, the Associated Press reported. The agreement follows complaints that some Lyft drivers refused to allow a service dog to accompany a rider, state Human Rights Commissioner Rebecca Lucero said.

Palestinian protester Leqaa Kordia freed on $100,000 bond in Texas

2026-03-15

A Palestinian woman held in U.S. immigration detention in Texas for about a year was released Monday after an immigration judge granted bond, according to the Department of Homeland Security and the judge’s ruling. Leqaa Kordia, 33, had been detained since last March after the Trump administration’s 2025 crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses.

U.S. flag raised at Venezuela embassy for first time since 2019

2026-03-15

The American flag was raised Saturday over the U.S. Embassy in Venezuela for the first time since 2019, the U.S. Embassy team said, as relations between Washington and Caracas have shifted under President Nicolás Maduro’s successor. The flag was raised “exactly seven years after it was taken down,” according to a statement shared through the embassy’s social media channels.

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine says he has left the country

2026-03-15

Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine said Saturday that he fled the country to avoid a military search after a disputed presidential election in January. In a video message posted on X, Wine said he had gone into hiding weeks earlier and that his location had been protected by Ugandans.

University of Florida to deactivate College Republicans after antisemitism report

2026-03-15

The University of Florida will deactivate its campus College Republicans as a registered student group after being notified that some members engaged in antisemitism, the university said on Monday. The move follows an investigation earlier this month involving a Florida International University student group and a Republican Party-linked group chat.

California officials investigate video of paid ballot‑signature collectors in San Francisco

2026-03-15

California election officials opened an investigation on March 13 after a video posted on X showed signature collectors in San Francisco offering $5 to anyone who would sign ballot petitions using false names. The footage, which captured a folding‑table setup with a sign that read “Sign petition for $5,” prompted the secretary of state’s office to confirm it was “aware of, and investigating, the matter.” The probe focuses on whether the collectors violated state law that bans payment for ballot‑measure signatures.

Chile's President Kast Launches Border Barrier Construction

2026-03-15

Chilean President José Antonio Kast began overseeing preparations for a border barrier in Chacalluta on March 16, less than a week after his inauguration, vowing to block illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and organized crime. From Chile's northern frontier, where many immigrants have crossed from Peru, Kast called the move a milestone for national security.

Bolsonaro Hospitalized: Kidney Function Worsens in Brasilia

2026-03-15

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was transferred to intensive care in Brasilia on Friday after his kidney function deteriorated, though doctors say his pneumonia has stabilized. The 70-year-old ex-leader is serving a 27-year sentence for leading a coup attempt in 2023.

3 more Iran soccer players leave Australia after visa reversal

2026-03-15

MELBOURNE, Australia — Three additional members of Iran's women's soccer team who had accepted Australian refugee visas have decided to return to Iran, an Australian government minister said Sunday. The departure leaves three of the initial seven squad members who stayed in Australia now planning to return home.

Wright Orders Sable to Restart California Offshore Oil Operations

2026-03-15

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright directed Texas-based Sable Offshore Corp. on Friday to resume oil production in waters off Southern California using the Defense Production Act, citing national security concerns. The move targets the Santa Ynez unit and pipeline near Santa Barbara, which have been inactive since a 2015 oil spill.

Israeli group discreetly organized mystery flights evacuating Palestinians

2026-03-14

An Israeli organization discreetly organized mystery flights that evacuated Palestinians from Gaza, Associated Press reported, citing contracts, passenger lists, text messages and interviews. The investigation found that the flights, including a flight carrying about 150 people that landed in South Africa in November, were arranged through a separate company and raised new questions about motives behind the departures.

Israeli group linked to mystery flights evacuating Gaza Palestinians

2026-03-14

Israeli investigators have found that Ad Kan, an Israeli organization, helped discreetly organize surprise flights that evacuated Palestinians from Gaza to South Africa and other countries, raising questions about the trips’ purpose, The Associated Press reported. The AP said the flights continued after May, with arrivals in Indonesia and South Africa in addition to a November landing in South Africa. AP investigators reported that some passengers said they did not know who was behind the flights, though they boarded after signing up to leave amid the war.

Trump administration stops releasing key immigration numbers, AP finds

2026-03-14

The Trump administration has stopped updating or removed key datasets used to track immigration enforcement, leaving researchers, lawyers and journalists without figures they previously relied on, according to an Associated Press review. The Office of Homeland Security Statistics, which has tracked immigration data dating to 1872, has not updated key enforcement metrics on its website since early last year, and monthly reports were described as “delayed while it is under review.” The gaps come as the administration promotes a deportation agenda that includes goals to deport 1 million people and to report zero releases at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Trump administration stops releasing key immigration data, researchers say

2026-03-14

The Trump administration has stopped updating or fully publishing key immigration-enforcement data, leaving researchers, lawyers and journalists struggling to find reliable metrics, according to a U.S. assessment of immigration statistics and interviews. The U.S. Office of Homeland Security Statistics, which has tracked enforcement trends since 1872, has key enforcement numbers on its website delayed or not updated for months, and experts say published figures have become harder to verify.

Caribbean legacy newspapers fold as owners cite social media shift

2026-03-14

Legacy newspapers in Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago have closed, with Stabroek News printing its final edition Sunday and halting its online publication and Newsday stopping in January, pressuring an already strained media ecosystem as readers turn to social media for news in real time.

Caribbean legacy newspapers Stabroek News and Newsday close, raising alarm for democracy

2026-03-14

Two of the Caribbean’s most storied independent papers — Guyana’s Stabroek News and Trinidad and Tobago’s Newsday — have shut their doors, officials and media veterans said, dealing a blow to democratic accountability in the region. Stabroek News printed its final edition on Sunday and stopped updating its website, while Newsday ceased both its print run and its online publication in January, citing a dramatic shift to social‑media news consumption and a steep decline in advertising revenue.

Caribbean Newspaper Closures Threaten Democracy, Journalists Warn

2026-03-14

Two legacy newspapers in the Caribbean—Guyana’s Stabroek News and Trinidad and Tobago’s Newsday—have ceased operations this year, a development journalists and media advocates describe as a blow to democracy and accountability in the region. The closures, effective Sunday for Stabroek News and January for Newsday, come as readers increasingly turn to social media for news, eroding traditional print revenue.

Democrats warn Trump tariffs could raise 2026 costs by $2,512 per household

2026-03-14

President Donald Trump is working to replace revenue lost after the Supreme Court struck down his largest tariffs last month, setting up additional import taxes that Democrats say will raise household costs. In a study released Friday, lawmakers on the Joint Economic Committee said Trump’s new tariffs would average $2,512 per household in 2026. The White House disputed the estimate, saying the administration will keep using tariffs to renegotiate trade deals and support investment.

Vietnam election selects new National Assembly as To Lam touts stability

2026-03-14

Voters in Vietnam went to the polls Sunday to choose members of a new National Assembly, an election held two months after the ruling Communist Party reelected To Lam as the country’s top leader. Nearly 79 million eligible voters across the country are set to pick 500 representatives from 864 vetted candidates.

Democrats warn Trump tariff plan could cost households $2,512 in 2026

2026-03-14

President Donald Trump is seeking ways to replace revenue lost after the Supreme Court struck down major tariffs, and Democrats warn new import taxes will raise the cost of living for American households. In a study released Friday, Democrats said the administration’s import taxes will average $2,512 per household in 2026, up from $1,745 in tariff costs last year.

Moscow businesses struggle as Russia restricts cellphone internet

2026-03-14

Moscow businesses in central areas of the capital have been hit by disruptions to cellphone internet, as foreign websites were blocked and even some government and bank services stopped working during outages, the Associated Press reported. Russian officials said the restrictions are security measures linked to Ukrainian drone threats, while the outages have coincided with broader restrictions on internet access and messaging platforms.

Iranians cross into northern Iraq as border reopens for groceries and internet

2026-03-14

Dozens of Iranians crossed into northern Iraq on Sunday, the first day the Haji Omeran crossing reopened after war-related disruptions, seeking cheaper groceries, internet access, and a way to contact relatives. Travelers said bombardments and soaring food prices have made life in Iran increasingly desperate, while Iraqi Kurdistan’s relative stability has turned the border route into a lifeline.

California’s gas-price law sits unused as Iran shock lifts prices

2026-03-14

California lawmakers passed a law meant to curb extreme spikes in gas prices, giving regulators authority to cap certain refinery profits and penalize price gouging. But the rules tied to that authority have never been used, and regulators voted last year to delay them for five years. With gasoline topping $5.30 a gallon statewide amid the Iran war’s effect on global oil markets, the dormant policy has come under renewed scrutiny.

Brazil hospital says ex-President Bolsonaro remains in intensive care

2026-03-14

Jair Bolsonaro’s kidney function has improved, but doctors say the former Brazilian president will remain in intensive care because of pneumonia. The hospital in Brasilia said it has given him more antibiotics and that he remains hospitalized while serving a 27-year prison sentence.

California’s unused gas‑price law faces criticism as pump prices hit $5.30 per gallon

2026-03-14

Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2023 law that lets California cap refinery profits and penalize price‑gouging has never been invoked, even as gasoline prices surged to $5.30 a gallon across the state in early 2026. The delay was cemented when the California Energy Commission voted in August 2025 to postpone the rules for five years, a move now under fresh scrutiny amid a global oil shock tied to the war with Iran. Consumer‑advocacy groups and environmental watchdogs say the state is “lying in wait for a hammer” that could protect drivers, while the oil industry argues the caps would push refiners out of California altogether.

Iranians cross into northern Iraq as border reopens for groceries, internet

2026-03-14

Dozens of Iranians crossed into northern Iraq on Sunday, the first day a border crossing reopened since fighting struck Iran, seeking cheaper groceries, internet access, and a way to contact relatives, according to interviews with people at the Haji Omeran crossing. For many travelers, the trip also represented an opportunity to find work in Iraq’s Kurdish region as food prices and insecurity rose inside Iran.

Orbán and Magyar draw rival crowds ahead of Hungary’s April election

2026-03-14

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and his main challenger, Peter Magyar, held rival rallies in Budapest on Sunday, each seeking to show strength with the election just weeks away. Orban addressed supporters after a march through the capital, while Magyar drew a crowd to Heroes’ Square and accused Orban of divisive propaganda and policies. The two men are expected to face off in Hungary’s April election on April 12.

Connecticut lawmakers question Gov. Lamont’s DCF nominee Susan Hamilton

2026-03-14

Connecticut lawmakers on Thursday questioned Gov. Ned Lamont’s nominee to lead the Department of Children and Families about whether the state is doing enough to protect children and provide care when they enter the foster system. The hearing focused on caseworker turnover, mental health support, homeschooling, and two high-profile cases tied to the agency’s involvement.

Connecticut lawmakers consider bill to study UAPs with UConn and agencies

2026-03-14

Lawmakers in Connecticut’s Appropriations Committee heard testimony on a bill that would require the University of Connecticut to partner with state agencies to study unidentified aerial phenomena, known as UAPs. The measure, filed by Republican Rep. Joe Hoxha of Bristol, would also explore creating a “state center” for further research into reports of UAPs in Connecticut skies.

Connecticut lawmaker proposes state UFO research program, cites New Jersey model

2026-03-14

State Rep. Joe Hoxha, R‑Bristol, introduced H.B. 5422 on Thursday, calling on the University of Connecticut to team with state agencies to study unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs). The bill, co‑sponsored by Democrat Rep. Aundre Bumgardner of Groton, aims to create a state‑run center to record, analyze and collect data on UAP sightings in Connecticut skies. Lawmakers on the Appropriations Committee heard testimony from residents and experts, including Yale PhD student Sri Tata, while Rep. Martin Foncello referenced a Department of Defense colleague working on UAP investigations. Connecticut joins New Jersey, which enacted a similar UAP research law last year that took effect in January.

Connecticut lawmakers question Lamont’s DCF nominee Susan Hamilton

2026-03-14

Connecticut lawmakers on Thursday questioned Gov. Ned Lamont’s nominee, interim Department of Children and Families Commissioner Susan Hamilton, about whether the state is doing enough to protect children from harm. Hamilton testified at a public hearing before the Executive and Legislative Nominations Committee as part of the process to become the agency’s official commissioner.

Trump signs executive orders to ease home affordability burdens

2026-03-14

President Donald Trump signed two executive orders aimed at improving home affordability ahead of November midterm elections, the White House said and an Associated Press report detailed. One order targets federal rules tied to housing permitting and construction, while the other would streamline mortgage-related regulations to expand lending by smaller community banks.

Peruvian presidential candidate dies in traffic accident in the Andes

2026-03-14

Peruvian presidential candidate Napoleón Becerra, 61, died Sunday in a car accident on a remote Andean highway while traveling to a political rally, according to local police. His Workers and Entrepreneurs Party said his body was taken to Huamanga in the Ayacucho region, where the accident occurred. The April 12 election is set against a backdrop of political instability following a corruption-driven ouster of a prior interim president in February.

ICE replaces prime contractor at largest detention facility

2026-03-14

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is terminating the contractor running its largest detention facility in El Paso, Texas, and replacing it with Amentum Services, the agency said. The contractor switch at Camp East Montana comes amid scrutiny of detainees’ living conditions and allegations of overcrowding, medical neglect and other problems.

Georgia senators question ex-special prosecutor Nathan Wade over Trump case

2026-03-14

State senators in Atlanta grilled former special prosecutor Nathan Wade on March 13 about his work on Georgia’s racketeering case against President Donald Trump, focusing on communications his team had with federal investigators. The Republican-led inquiry into Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her prosecution largely ran into Wade’s repeated claims that he could not recall details.

EPA proposes weakening air limits on ethylene oxide used to sterilize devices

2026-03-14

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed to weaken air pollution limits on ethylene oxide, a chemical used to sterilize medical equipment, reversing a Biden-era finding that tied manufacturing exposure to increased cancer risks. The EPA said the current standards “actively threaten” manufacturers’ ability to sterilize devices and jeopardize the domestic supply chain for essential medical equipment.

Chinese intelligence agency backs “Scare Out,” thriller set for Feb. 17 release

2026-03-14

A Chinese counterespionage thriller called “Scare Out” has received backing from the Ministry of State Security, marking the first time the agency has endorsed a motion picture, Associated Press reported. Directed by Zhang Yimou, the film opened in Chinese theaters on Feb. 17, Chinese New Year’s Day, and depicts a mole inside China’s intelligence service leaking secrets about a new fighter jet.

Brazil revokes US diplomat Darren Beattie’s visa after prison visit bid

2026-03-14

Brazil revoked the visa of U.S. diplomat Darren Beattie after he sought to visit jailed former President Jair Bolsonaro, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said on Friday. Lula tied the move to a reciprocal measure after U.S. officials revoked visas of Brazilian officials last year, and he said Beattie would be blocked until visas for Brazil’s health minister and his family are reinstated.

Colombia cancels Petro-Delcy meeting at border after Venezuela cites force majeure

2026-03-14

The Colombian government said a planned Friday meeting between Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro and Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodríguez at the international Atanasio Girardot bridge was canceled. Venezuela’s government later said the meeting would not take place Friday due to “force majeure” and that the two sides would postpone it to a later date.

Denis Sassou-N’Guesso reelected president of Congo to fifth term

2026-03-14

Denis Sassou-N’Guesso was reelected president of the Republic of Congo to a fifth consecutive term, according to provisional results announced Tuesday by authorities, extending a 42-year hold on power. The incumbent received 94.82% of the vote, Interior Minister Raymond Zephirin Mboulou said on state television.

Families of Colombians detained in Venezuela wait as meeting is canceled

2026-03-14

Javier Giraldo arrived Friday at the Atanasio Girardot Binational Bridge between Colombia and Venezuela hoping to display a sign asking for his father’s release from a Venezuelan prison. Instead, Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodríguez canceled a scheduled meeting late Thursday, dashing hopes for a handover at the border.

Federal order seeks major capacity increase at proposed Arizona ICE center

2026-03-14

The Biden administration has released a federal procurement order seeking to increase the number of people held at a proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Marana, Arizona, according to documents described by Arizona Luminaria and immigration advocates. A former state prison in Marana would be run by private operator Management and Training Corporation, the order says.

Gay Muslim influencer hosts inclusive Ramadan meal in Berlin, urges acceptance

2026-03-14

Ali Darwich, a 33-year-old gay Muslim influencer in Berlin, used an inclusive Ramadan Iftar hosted with friends to call for acceptance across identities and faiths, including gay Muslims. In remarks to The Associated Press, Darwich said he wants a message that no one is “too queer” to break the fast, and he described the isolation he faced after coming out to his mother.

Kazakhstan votes in referendum on Tokayev-backed constitution overhaul

2026-03-14

Kazakhstanis voted Sunday in a referendum on a new constitution that would strengthen President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s grip on power, according to the referendum plan reported by The Associated Press. The proposed changes would merge the country’s parliament into a single chamber and expand presidential influence over key officials. Analysts also said the vote could help Tokayev reshape presidential term limits after his current term ends in 2029.

NewsGuard sues FTC over investigation into news rating service

2026-03-14

A media-rating company, NewsGuard Technologies, sued the Federal Trade Commission and its chairman, Andrew Ferguson, in U.S. District Court in Washington, arguing the agency is using its power to censor speech. The FTC says the company’s accusations are “untethered from both law and fact,” according to court filings.

Newsom mental health bond projects delayed from planned 2025 openings

2026-03-14

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s mental health bond promised that 10 early projects would open by the end of 2025. A CalMatters investigation found none met that goal, with nine delayed and one cancelled, underscoring hurdles in building new treatment capacity in California. Newsom said the bond is exceeding its goals as the state awarded additional funding this week.

Political parties tested as French voters elect municipal leaders

2026-03-14

French voters went to the polls Sunday in municipal elections to choose mayors and their teams, an early stress test for parties ahead of the 2027 presidential election. The far-right National Rally is drawing scrutiny for signs it continues to gain ground, with a second-round runoff in undecided races next Sunday. In key cities such as Paris and Marseille, projections pointed to potentially tight second-round contests.

Wisconsin legislator pleads no contest to disorderly conduct charge

2026-03-14

A Wisconsin lawmaker pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge tied to a dispute within her Assembly Democratic caucus over resolutions honoring Hispanics. The plea was entered during a Friday hearing in Milwaukee County, according to court records cited by The Associated Press.

French Municipal Elections Test Parties Ahead of 2027 Vote

2026-03-14

French voters cast ballots in municipal elections Sunday, providing an early stress test for political parties ahead of the 2027 presidential race to succeed President Emmanuel Macron. The voting across more than 35,000 towns and cities, from small villages to major cities like Paris and Marseille, is being closely watched for signs of momentum, particularly for Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally.

EPA proposes to roll back limits on cancer‑causing sterilization gas

2026-03-14

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced on Friday it would relax air‑pollution standards for ethylene oxide, a chemical used to sterilize medical devices. The move would undo a 2024 rule that cut emissions by about 90% at nearly 90 facilities and contradict a 2016 classification of the gas as a human carcinogen. Environmental‑health groups say the change threatens communities near sterilization plants, especially those of color.

Iranians cross into northern Iraq as border opens for cheaper groceries and internet

2026-03-14

Dozens of Iranians crossed into Iraq’s Kurdish region on Sunday, the first day the Haji Omeran border reopened after weeks of closure, seeking lower‑priced food, internet access and work. Travelers said relentless airstrikes and soaring prices have made life in Iran increasingly desperate, prompting many to turn to the nearby Iraqi market for relief.

China’s MSS backs spy thriller “Scare Out,” the first state‑endorsed film

2026-03-14

Beijing’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) has officially endorsed the Chinese counter‑espionage thriller “Scare Out,” making it the first motion picture to receive backing from the secretive agency. Directed by Oscar‑nominated Zhang Yimou and starring Jackson Yee and Zhu Yilong, the film opened on Feb. 17 in Shenzhen and has already grossed 1.1 billion yuan (about $160 million) in its first two weeks, drawing audiences in China, the United States, Canada and Australia. The MSS says the movie is meant to “strengthen the people’s defense line” and promote national‑security education.

Families of Colombian detainees lose hope after Petro‑Rodríguez meeting is canceled

2026-03-14

Javier Giraldo travelled to the Atanasio Girardot Binational Bridge on Friday hoping to display a sign pleading for his father’s release from a Venezuelan prison, only to learn that the scheduled meeting between Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Venezuelan Acting President Delcy Rodríguez had been abruptly called off. The cancellation shattered the expectations of dozens of families whose relatives remain detained in Venezuela, renewing worries that diplomatic progress on the issue is stalled.

China’s spy thriller “Scare Out” backed by state security agency

2026-03-14

China’s Ministry of State Security (MSS) has officially endorsed the newly released counter‑espionage film “Scare Out,” marking the first time the secretive intelligence agency has backed a motion picture. Directed by Oscar‑nominated Zhang Yimou and starring Jackson Yee and Zhu Yilong, the thriller opened on Feb. 17, Chinese New Year’s Day, and has already grossed about 1.1 billion yuan ($160 million) in two weeks. The MSS says the movie is meant to “strengthen the people’s defense line” and promote national‑security awareness among ordinary citizens.

Federal order targets higher capacity at proposed Marana ICE detention site

2026-03-14

A federal procurement order would expand the planned capacity of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Marana, Arizona, from a state-documented 513 beds to a requested 775, according to the order and state records. Immigration attorney Daniela Ugaz said the increase would raise risks for people held there, including abuse and medical neglect.

French municipal elections test parties ahead of 2027 presidential race

2026-03-14

French voters elected mayors and local leaders Sunday in municipal elections that served as an early stress test for political parties before the 2027 presidential election. The voting covered roughly 35,000 towns, villages and cities, with a second round scheduled next Sunday in places where no clear winner emerges in the first ballot.

Gay Muslim influencer in Berlin hosts inclusive Ramadan Iftar

2026-03-14

Ali Darwich, a gay Muslim influencer in Berlin, hosted an inclusive Ramadan iftar aimed at showing acceptance across faiths and sexual orientations, the Associated Press reported. Darwich, who goes by @alifragt on Instagram, spoke to friends around a table as the sun set over Berlin while breaking the fast together. The gathering came as Germany sees rising violence targeting LGBTQ+ people.

ICE replaces contractor at largest detention camp, citing conditions

2026-03-14

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said Friday it is replacing the contractor that has run its largest detention facility at Camp East Montana in El Paso, Texas, with a new prime contractor. The move comes after scrutiny of living conditions detainees described as inhumane since the camp’s hasty construction and opening last year.

Kazakhs vote in referendum on constitution that would strengthen president

2026-03-14

Kazakhs voted Sunday in a referendum on a proposed new constitution that would consolidate President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s control of government. The changes would merge the two chambers of Kazakhstan’s parliament into a single body and restore the office of vice president, with key officials appointed by the president subject to parliamentary approval.

Kazakhstan holds referendum on new constitution amid term-limit questions

2026-03-14

Kazakhstan voters are casting ballots Sunday in a referendum on a new constitution that would strengthen President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s grip on power, according to analysts cited by The Associated Press. The proposal would merge the country’s parliament’s two chambers into one and expand presidential authority over appointments, while creating a president-appointed People’s Council with powers to initiate legislation and referendums.

NewsGuard sues FTC, alleging investigation aims to censor its ratings

2026-03-14

A media-rating company says the Trump administration’s Federal Trade Commission is threatening its livelihood by investigating the company’s news-credibility ratings. NewsGuard Technologies filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Washington, arguing the FTC is using its power to censor speech rather than address trade or commerce.

Millions vote in Vietnam election for new National Assembly

2026-03-14

Voters in Vietnam cast ballots on Sunday to elect a new National Assembly, AP reported, two months after the ruling Communist Party reelected To Lam as the country’s top leader. Nearly 79 million voters are eligible to choose 500 representatives from a slate of 864 candidates, AP said.

Newsom’s mental health bond delays push some projects past 2025

2026-03-14

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s administration said it was speeding up delivery of projects funded by a $6.4 billion mental health bond approved by voters in 2024, but nine of 10 initial projects expected to open in 2025 were delayed, according to a report released this week. The delays, first-round delays and at least one cancellation affect plans for new inpatient treatment beds, outpatient slots and related housing programs.

Orbán and Magyar hold rival rallies in Budapest ahead of April election

2026-03-14

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and his main challenger, Péter Magyar, drew large crowds in Budapest on Sunday for rival rallies ahead of the country’s April election. Orbán, leader of the nationalist Fidesz party, spoke at Heroes’ Square, while Magyar rallied supporters with a message focused on Western integration and domestic conditions.

Peruvian candidate Napoleón Becerra dies in car crash in the Andes

2026-03-14

Peruvian presidential candidate Napoleón Becerra died Sunday in a traffic accident on a remote Andean highway while traveling to a political rally, according to local police and a party statement. He was 61. The crash occurred in the rural district of the city of Pilpichaca, about 430 kilometers (267 miles) southeast of Lima.

Republic of Congo president reelected to fifth term, provisional results show

2026-03-14

Denis Sassou N’Guesso was reelected president of the Republic of the Congo for a fifth consecutive term, according to provisional results announced Tuesday by Interior Minister Raymond Zephirin Mboulou. The authorities reported Sassou N’Guesso won about 94.82% of the vote, with turnout reported at 84.65%, the interior minister said on state television.

Trump signs executive orders aimed at improving home affordability

2026-03-14

President Donald Trump signed two executive orders on Friday aimed at addressing home affordability, a key issue for voters ahead of November’s midterm elections, according to The Associated Press. The orders would change federal housing and mortgage regulations and would aim to accelerate permitting and ease mortgage rules for smaller lenders.

Wisconsin legislator Ortiz-Velez pleads no contest in disorderly case

2026-03-14

A Wisconsin state lawmaker, Sylvia Ortiz-Velez, pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor disorderly conduct charge tied to a dispute with fellow Democrats over resolutions honoring Hispanics. Prosecutors charged her in February, and the plea was entered during a hearing in Milwaukee County on Friday, according to the Associated Press. Judge Paul Malloy ordered Ortiz-Velez to pay a $300 fine and submit a DNA sample.

Meeting between Colombia’s Petro and Venezuela’s Delcy Rodríguez canceled

2026-03-14

The scheduled summit between Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Venezuelan interim President Delcy Rodríguez was called off on Friday, March 12, 2026, the Colombian foreign ministry confirmed to the Associated Press. The leaders were to meet at the Atanasio Girardot International Bridge linking Colombia’s Norte de Santander department with Venezuela’s Táchira state, a gathering that had generated high expectations for bilateral cooperation after the United States ousted Nicolás Maduro. Neither side disclosed a specific reason for the cancellation; the Venezuelan government cited “motivos de fuerza mayor” and said the meeting would be rescheduled.

Bolsonaro's Kidney Function Improves, Remains in ICU

2026-03-14

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's kidney function has improved but he will remain in an intensive care unit due to pneumonia, his doctors said Sunday. The 70-year-old right-wing leader has been hospitalized multiple times since a 2018 stabbing and is serving a 27-year sentence for a coup attempt.

Brazil's ex-President Bolsonaro in ICU with pneumonia

2026-03-14

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, 70, is in intensive care with pneumonia, his doctors said Friday. The hospitalization comes as Bolsonaro serves a 27-year sentence for attempting a coup and as his son Flávio mounts a presidential bid.

Brazil Revokes US Diplomat's Visa After Bolsonaro Prison Visit Bid

2026-03-14

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva revoked the visa of U.S. diplomat Darren Beattie on Friday, reciprocating for last year's visa revocations of Brazilian officials by the United States. The move came after Beattie was denied permission to visit former President Jair Bolsonaro in prison.

Connecticut Weighs Bill to Study UFOs via UConn Partnership

2026-03-14

Connecticut state lawmakers are considering legislation that would direct the University of Connecticut to partner with state agencies to study unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs). The bill, H.B. 5422, was the subject of a public hearing this week and has drawn bipartisan support, including from a representative whose district hosts a major Navy submarine base.

EPA Proposes Weakening Ethylene Oxide Pollution Limits

2026-03-14

The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday proposed weakening air pollution limits on ethylene oxide, a chemical used to sterilize medical equipment, reversing a Biden-era rule aimed at sharply cutting emissions of the cancer-causing gas.

Newsom's Mental Health Bond Projects Delayed; None Opened in 2025

2026-03-14

None of the 10 mental health treatment projects promised to open last year under Gov. Gavin Newsom’s $6.4 billion Proposition 1 bond have launched, CalMatters has found. The delays, attributed to supply chain issues, permitting hurdles, and administrative challenges, push back critical care for Californians experiencing homelessness and mental illness.

Unused California Gas Price Law Draws New Scrutiny

2026-03-14

California's 2023 law granting regulators power to cap refinery profits during price spikes remains dormant despite record-high gas prices, raising questions about the state's energy policy amid refinery closures and global oil shocks.

Families of Colombian Prisoners in Venezuela Lose Hope After Canceled Meeting

2026-03-14

Javier Giraldo arrived at the international bridge between Colombia and Venezuela on Friday hoping to display a sign requesting his father’s release during a meeting between the two countries’ presidents. But the meeting between Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodríguez was abruptly canceled, dashing the families’ hopes once again.

Trump administration kicks off new tariff strategy for foreign manufacturing

2026-03-13

The Trump administration on Wednesday opened a new trade investigation into manufacturing in foreign countries as a way to replace tariffs that were struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court. The investigation will proceed under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, with the U.S. Trade Representative saying the goal is to protect American jobs while officials avoid prejudging outcomes.

Trump administration opens new Section 301 probe to replace tariffs

2026-03-13

The Trump administration opened a new trade investigation aimed at manufacturing in foreign countries as it seeks to replace tariffs that the U.S. Supreme Court struck down, an effort the administration said is intended to protect American jobs. The investigation begins under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said.

Israel drops charges against soldiers accused in Palestinian detainee abuse

2026-03-13

Israel’s military said it has dropped charges against five soldiers accused of beating and sexually abusing a Palestinian detainee in an alleged assault at a wartime prison in 2024. The case, involving allegations that were partially captured on video and later leaked, prompted anger among far-right figures in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government. Human rights advocates criticized the decision as dismissing one of the gravest episodes of abuse in Israel’s network of detention facilities.

Israel drops charges against soldiers accused of abuse at Sde Teiman

2026-03-13

Israel’s military said it is dropping charges against five soldiers accused of beating and sexually abusing a Palestinian detainee at the Sde Teiman military prison, a case that has drawn intense scrutiny. The military said the decision came because a leaked video did not show abuse severe enough to support a criminal conviction and because the video had been improperly released to the media.

White House criticizes CNN for airing Iranian supreme leader message

2026-03-13

The Trump administration denounced CNN on Thursday for airing part of a public statement by Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, the network’s latest target in a dispute over wartime coverage. White House communications director Steven Cheung had criticized CNN earlier for an interview with a former Iranian nuclear negotiator, and CNN and other outlets said they also aired portions of the new statement. The episode underscored how officials can challenge how American media depict adversaries during conflict.

White House criticizes CNN for airing Iranian leader’s remarks

2026-03-13

The Trump administration denounced CNN on Thursday for airing a portion of a public statement by Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, calling the broadcast propaganda. The administration’s criticism came as multiple news outlets issued alerts about what Khamenei said after he succeeded his father, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike.

White House Criticizes CNN for Airing Iranian Leader's Message

2026-03-13

The Trump administration denounced CNN on Thursday for broadcasting portions of Iran's new supreme leader's first public statement since his father's death, marking the second time in three days that President Trump has targeted the network for its war reporting. The attack highlights the delicate balance news outlets must strike in covering enemy states during wartime.

Senate passes bipartisan housing bill to improve access and affordability

2026-03-13

The U.S. Senate on Thursday passed a broad, bipartisan housing bill aimed at improving access to homeownership and affordability nationwide, with the measure clearing the chamber 89-10. The bill would reduce some regulations, curb certain corporate investment in single-family homes, and expand how housing dollars can be used to build affordable homes and rentals. It now heads back to the House, where leaders have signaled they may pursue a conference process rather than simply accept the Senate version.

Senate passes bipartisan housing bill to boost affordability

2026-03-13

The U.S. Senate approved a sweeping bipartisan housing bill on Thursday, voting 89‑10 to advance legislation aimed at widening access to affordable homes. The measure, championed by Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Republican Senate Banking Committee chair Tim Scott, would loosen certain regulations, curb corporate investors in single‑family housing and give local officials more tools to address regional housing shortages. The bill now heads back to the House, which passed a similar version earlier this year.

Judge Denies Restraining Order in Washington Press Pass Lawsuit

2026-03-13

A federal judge in Washington state rejected an emergency request that would have forced the state House to issue press credentials to three conservative media figures. The judge said the plaintiffs did not show they were likely to win on claims of denied free press rights or violations of due process. The dispute centers on whether the House should grant floor access to participants in political advocacy rather than independent journalists.

Senators vent frustration over DHS shutdown as airport lines grow

2026-03-13

Senators vented frustration Wednesday over a lack of progress on funding the Department of Homeland Security, as long airport security lines persist and lawmakers warn they could worsen. The standoff, which began Feb. 14, is now entering its fourth week, with the remaining Homeland Security appropriations bill the only one not completed for the year.

Republicans plan talkathon on voting bill as they face Trump pressure

2026-03-13

Senate Republicans plan a long debate next week on a House-passed voting bill to impose stricter proof-of-citizenship requirements, a move Senate Majority Leader John Thune says is aimed at putting Democrats “on the record.” The effort is driven in part by pressure from President Donald Trump, who has made the bill a condition for signing other legislation.

Sheinbaum signals “Plan B” after electoral reform defeat in Mexico Congress

2026-03-13

Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum said Thursday there would be a “Plan B” after Congress defeated a constitutional reform proposal that would have changed Mexico’s electoral system. The proposal failed in the Chamber of Deputies on Wednesday evening after Sheinbaum’s Morena party lacked the supermajority, with defections from some allies, including members of the Green and Workers parties. Sheinbaum warned that voters would judge whether lawmakers from those parties had supported her administration’s agenda as promised.

Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei sets out retaliation and Hormuz stance

2026-03-13

Iran’s new supreme leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei issued his first public statement on the war on Thursday, in a speech read aloud by a news anchor rather than delivered on camera, the Associated Press reported. In the statement, he urged neighboring countries to shut down bases he linked to attacks on Iran and said Iran would keep retaliating over the killing of his predecessor’s father, former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

California governor says no imminent threat from possible Iranian drones

2026-03-13

In Sacramento, California Gov. Gavin Newsom said the state faces no imminent threat despite an FBI warning about a possible Iranian drone strike on the West Coast in retaliation for war. Newsom said officials are treating the information with preparedness for “worst-case scenarios.”

Guatemala’s new Constitutional Court faces test to win back trust

2026-03-13

Guatemala’s newly selected Constitutional Court will need to regain public confidence in a justice system that many Guatemalans see as serving the interests of a few, experts said March 12. The court, whose decisions cannot be appealed, will be seated in April after President Bernardo Arévalo announced two of its magistrates on Wednesday.

Microsoft asks court to block Trump Pentagon ban on Anthropic AI

2026-03-13

Microsoft and a group of retired military leaders urged a federal judge in San Francisco to halt a Trump administration decision to exclude Anthropic from military work. The government said last week that Anthropic poses a risk to the military supply chain, and Microsoft challenged the move in a filing tied to a lawsuit Anthropic brought on Monday.

Carney pledges $32B for northern forward bases to bolster Canada’s Arctic sovereignty

2026-03-13

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Thursday his government will invest an additional C$32 billion (US$24 billion) in northern forward operating locations and infrastructure to assert sovereignty in the Arctic. Speaking in Yellowknife, in Canada’s Northwest Territories, Carney also announced funding for remote operating hubs and road and port projects.

Federal judge backs Washington lawmakers in press credentials dispute

2026-03-13

A federal judge on Tuesday rejected a bid for a temporary restraining order that would have forced Washington House lawmakers to grant press passes to three conservative media figures. The case stemmed from the House declining earlier this year to issue legislative press credentials to Ari Hoffman, Brandi Kruse and Jonathan Choe over a dispute about who qualifies as a journalist and whether the credentialing process was arbitrary.

Illinois Democratic Senate primary pits candidates, highlights Pritzker’s clout

2026-03-13

Illinois Democrats are holding a competitive primary to replace retiring U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, setting up an open U.S. Senate seat and turning the race into a test of Gov. JB Pritzker’s political influence. The contest between candidates Raja Krishnamoorthi and Robin Kelly has also put Pritzker’s role—backing Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton—at the center of intraparty criticism as voters weigh how money and power shape outcomes.

Iran war disrupts energy supplies as Trump threatens new action

2026-03-13

Iran’s new supreme leader said Thursday the war will continue, warning Gulf Arab states of “other fronts” as prices and markets reacted to escalating attacks. In the same period, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his strikes are creating conditions for the Iranian public to topple the government, while U.S. President Donald Trump posted threats to Iran online.

Missouri judge rejects lawsuit against Trump-backed congressional map

2026-03-13

A Jackson County Circuit Court judge on Thursday rejected a lawsuit challenging Missouri’s new U.S. House district map, a plan backed by former President Donald Trump that seeks to give Republicans an extra seat in the 2026 midterm elections. The ruling, issued by Judge Adam Caine, upheld the redistricting plan that reshapes Kansas City’s 5th District and stretches it into heavily Republican rural areas.

Illinois Senate Primary Tests Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s Influence and Money

2026-03-13

A rare open U.S. Senate seat in Illinois has turned the 2026 Democratic primary into a litmus test for Governor J.B. Pritzker’s political sway ahead of a possible 2028 presidential run. Pritzker is pouring millions into Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton’s campaign, pitting her against two longtime House members—Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi and Rep. Robin Kelly—while drawing sharp criticism from Black Democratic leaders and voters uneasy about the billionaire’s role. The battle, featuring more than a dozen candidates, will likely decide which Democrat captures the seat permanently, as Illinois has not elected a Republican senator since 2016.

California governor says no imminent drone threat from Iran

2026-03-13

California Governor Gavin Newsom told a press briefing on March 12 that there is no imminent threat to the state despite an FBI bulletin warning of a possible Iranian drone strike on the West Coast. The warning, posted on the agency’s official X account, described the intelligence as “unverified,” and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed the governor’s assessment, saying no such threat exists.

Iran’s new supreme leader issues first statement, warns of retaliation

2026-03-13

Iran’s new supreme leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei issued his first public statement on the war on Thursday, but did not appear on camera and the speech was read by a news anchor. In the statement, he called for neighboring countries to shut down bases linked to attacks on Iran and said Iran would continue using a “lever of closing the Strait of Hormuz.”

Iran war disrupts energy supplies as Trump issues new threats

2026-03-13

Iran’s new supreme leader made his first public remarks, pledging to keep fighting as the war entered its 13th day and oil prices surged and stocks fell. In separate remarks, U.S. President Donald Trump posted a new threat to Iran, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel’s strikes were aimed at creating conditions for the Iranian population to topple the government.

Sheinbaum vows “Plan B” after congressional defeat of electoral reform

2026-03-13

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum on Thursday downplayed her party’s loss of a constitutional reform proposal in the Chamber of Deputies, saying she has a “Plan B” to alter the electoral system. The Morena‑led initiative, framed by the president as a budget‑austerity measure, failed because the governing party did not secure the super‑majority needed to enact it.

Illinois Senate Primary Tests Gov. Pritzker's Clout

2026-03-13

Illinois Democrats vote Tuesday in a high-stakes Senate primary where Gov. JB Pritzker's multimillion-dollar backing of Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton is dividing voters and testing his influence ahead of a possible 2028 presidential bid. The contest to replace retiring Sen. Dick Durbin has become a referendum on Pritzker's political power and wealth.

Iran's Supreme Leader Vows Retaliation, Threatens Hormuz Closure

2026-03-13

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Iran's new Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, in his first public statement since taking power, vowed to continue and escalate the war against Israel and the United States, and threatened to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed as a strategic lever. The speech, read by a news anchor Thursday without showing Khamenei on camera, did not specify his location but an Israeli assessment indicates he was wounded in the war's opening salvo.

17 state attorneys general sue Trump administration over race data rule

2026-03-13

BOSTON — Seventeen Democratic state attorneys general filed a federal lawsuit Wednesday challenging a Trump administration policy requiring higher education institutions to collect data on whether they consider race in admissions. The plaintiffs argued the data-collection effort is rushed, could produce unreliable results, and jeopardizes student privacy, while the Education Department defended the requirement as an expansion of a transparency tool.

Mississippi to join Trump administration foster parent recruitment initiative

2026-03-13

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves said the state will join the Trump administration’s “A Home for Every Child Initiative” to increase the number of licensed foster homes for children in state custody. Reeves said Mississippi has 52 foster homes for every 100 foster children, and officials expect to use federal support to target recruitment and reduce administrative “red tape.”

Trump administration sues California over vehicle-emission rules

2026-03-13

President Donald Trump’s administration sued California on Thursday over state rules aimed at curbing air pollution from cars, a dispute that could reshape the timeline for electric-vehicle adoption. The lawsuit challenges California’s authority to enforce vehicle-emissions standards, even those that California says were already approved under less strict federal requirements.

Eswatini receives fourth group of migrants deported by U.S. under Trump administration

2026-03-13

Four African migrants arrived in the landlocked kingdom of Eswatini on Thursday, the third batch the United States has sent under the Trump administration’s secret third‑country deportation agreements. The group — a Tanzanian, a Sudanese and two Somali nationals — joins more than 40 people the U.S. has transferred to African states since July 2025 as part of a hard‑line immigration policy.

Trump administration sues California over vehicle‑emission standards

2026-03-13

The federal government filed a lawsuit on March 12 against California’s vehicle‑emission program, accusing the state of overstepping its authority to set stricter rules for cars. The suit targets standards that the California Air Resources Board says will stay in force despite the litigation. Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom’s office blasted the action as an attack on the state’s efforts to lower gasoline prices and expand electric‑vehicle options.

Eswatini Receives Third US Deportation Flight with African Migrants

2026-03-13

Four African migrants, including a Tanzanian and two Somalis, arrived in Eswatini on Thursday as part of the Trump administration's third deportation flight to the kingdom. The deportation is part of a broader, largely secretive US agreement with at least seven African nations to accept third-country nationals.

As West Virginia schools face financial crisis, lawmakers offer no help

2026-03-13

As public schools in West Virginia face financial crisis, lawmakers have done little in the current 60-day legislative session to relieve funding pressures on students living in poverty, a report distributed by The Associated Press says. The House of Delegates has kept school funding relatively flat at about $2.01 billion, while fully funding the Hope Scholarship for students attending private schools. Advocates and state education officials warn that more districts could face insolvency, and some systems have already cut staff or weigh layoffs.

Minnesota lawmakers hear water system funding needs as bonding bill debate grows

2026-03-13

Minnesota local governments are pressing state lawmakers for bonding bill funding to expand and repair drinking, wastewater and stormwater systems, citing aging infrastructure, updated requirements and rising construction costs. In testimony and interviews during the 2026 legislative session, officials and lawmakers said water projects account for a large share of requests and could be harder to fit into budgets without borrowing authority. The debate over a bonding bill has included concerns from some lawmakers about using it for political leverage and about the lack of dedicated recurring funding.

Montana bars permits for most weekend Capitol rallies, complicating “No Kings”

2026-03-13

Montana’s General Services Division has revised permitting rules that bar public events requiring permits on weekends at the Capitol Complex in Helena, according to the Montana.gov update. Organizers of an upcoming March 28 “No Kings” rally say the change would violate their First Amendment rights, and say they will move the planned stage setup off the Capitol plaza if they cannot obtain a permit.

Microsoft and retired generals back Anthropic in lawsuit against Pentagon

2026-03-13

Microsoft and a coalition of 22 retired senior U.S. military officers filed a brief on March 11 in federal court in San Francisco asking a judge to block the Pentagon’s supply‑chain‑risk designation of artificial‑intelligence firm Anthropic. The designation, issued by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth under the Trump administration, would bar Anthropic’s Claude model from military contracts and force contractors to follow vague supply‑chain guidelines that have never been applied to a U.S. company before. The brief argues the move threatens the rule of law, endangers service members and could have serious economic effects.

West Virginia schools face funding shortfall as lawmakers take no action for students in poverty

2026-03-13

West Virginia’s public schools are teetering on the brink of financial collapse, yet the Republican‑controlled legislature kept the state education budget flat at $2.01 billion for the 2026‑27 school year—about $8 million less than the prior year. Lawmakers declined to act on a RAND Corporation study that urged higher funding for students living in poverty and for special‑education programs, leaving more than 200,000 children without the resources they need.

Montana bars weekend Capitol rally permits, affecting 'No Kings' event

2026-03-13

Montana has revised its permitting rules for public events at the Capitol Complex to limit permits for weekend rallies, records published online show. Organizers of an upcoming “No Kings” rally in Helena say the change threatens their ability to hold the Saturday, March 28 event as planned.

Oregon lawmakers approve $2.1 million to buy Abiqua Falls from sale listing

2026-03-13

Oregon lawmakers approved $2.1 million to buy Abiqua Falls after the nonprofit that owns the site put the waterfall up for sale through Redfin, according to the Associated Press. The falls, about 30 miles east of Salem, have drawn public interest and hiking access for decades, and the listing raised concerns among conservation supporters.

West Virginia schools face crisis as lawmakers reject funding reforms

2026-03-13

HANCOCK COUNTY, W.Va. — Fifty-seven days into the 60-day legislative session, West Virginia public schools are nearing financial collapse with no relief from lawmakers. Seven county school systems have been taken over by the state, and more districts warn of payroll risks, while education funding remains flat at $2.01 billion. The legislature instead fully funded the Hope Scholarship for private education, adding students without guardrails, as a RAND Corporation study recommending increased support for students in poverty and special education was ignored. Bills to reform the school aid formula stalled in committees despite warnings from state education leaders. “If we had the money, I’d love to do it,” said House Finance Chair Vernon Criss, R-Taylor, of a per-pupil spending increase that was slashed in committee. State Board of Education President Paul Hardesty warned more districts will face insolvency without action. Senate Education Chair Amy Grady, R-Mason, who is also a public school teacher, said she has pushed funding increases for special education, rural schools, and lower student-teacher ratios for two years. “It’s always money,” Grady said. “We always say this is a major issue, and this should be a priority, but we don’t have anything that’s really structured that gets us from here to finding a solution.” The legislature’s own RAND study concluded the state should increase funding for students living in poverty and those in special education. Lawmakers moved no bills this session to address those recommendations. Dale Lee, co-president of Education West Virginia, said additional funding for special education is critical. “They can find the money for it,” Lee said. “But they need to do it now, not in two years.” The House passed a bill to raise per-pupil spending from $5,700 to $6,500 and increase funding for students with severe disabilities, but the Senate Finance Committee has not acted. The bill, now pending in Senate Finance, would not take effect until the 2027-2028 school year if passed. More than 200,000 West Virginia children attend public schools. The legislature’s decision to keep funding flat while expanding private-school vouchers has left districts scrambling to avoid layoffs and maintain basic operations. Hardesty told lawmakers in January that without significant changes to the school aid formula, more county systems will face insolvency in the coming years. The warning came as Hancock County announced its payroll was at risk, joining six other counties already under state control. The session ends in three days. No comprehensive funding reform appears likely.

2 Ohio pastors emerge as allies for Haitian migrants during Trump crackdown

2026-03-13

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio, March 13, 2026 — Two Ohio pastors, Reginald Silencieux and Carl Ruby, have emerged as outspoken allies for Haitian migrants in Springfield who fear deportation amid President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. Both pastors say they have offered shelter in their churches, legal and community support, and religious services in Creole and English as the Haitian community faces threats tied to recent misinformation.

Pope accepts resignation of Chaldean Catholic bishop charged with embezzlement

2026-03-13

Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Bishop Emanuel Shaleta, a Chaldean Catholic leader in the San Diego area, who faces criminal charges accusing him of embezzling $270,000 from his parish. The Vatican said it accepted Shaleta’s resignation under canon law for Eastern Rite churches, and named a temporary administrator for the El Cajon congregation.

Celebrity chef René Redzepi resigns from Noma after abuse claims

2026-03-13

René Redzepi, the founder and chef behind Denmark’s famed Noma, stepped down after abuse and assault allegations drew new attention online. In a Thursday Instagram post, he said Noma had taken steps to change its culture and that his resignation acknowledged that “an apology is not enough.”

Closing arguments begin in landmark social media trial set in Los Angeles

2026-03-13

Closing arguments began Thursday in a landmark Los Angeles trial over whether Meta and YouTube should be liable for harms that a plaintiff says were caused by early social media use. After a month of testimony from addiction experts, therapists, engineers and executives including Mark Zuckerberg, a 12-person jury heard closing statements and is expected to begin deliberations Friday morning.

Machado calls Trump a “fundamental ally” despite U.S. backing Delcy Rodríguez

2026-03-13

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said the Trump administration remains a “fundamental ally” for Venezuela’s democratic transition, even as Washington has endorsed acting President Delcy Rodríguez. Speaking in Santiago, Chile, Machado laid out a U.S.-linked roadmap that she said includes “three phases” and also addressed the displacement of Venezuelans in the region.

Live Nation employee mocks customers in internal messages in antitrust trial

2026-03-13

Incendiary internal messages in which a Live Nation employee mocked customers as “so stupid” and said the company was “robbing them blind, baby” were made public as 24-plus states and the U.S. government weigh whether to keep litigating their antitrust case against Live Nation and Ticketmaster. The messages, shared in a filing released in Manhattan federal court, were highlighted after a week of testimony and after federal authorities announced a settlement that could alter the trial’s future.

Nevada warns data center boom may derail 2030 clean energy goal

2026-03-13

Nevada’s NV Energy says the state is on track to miss clean energy standards it is required to meet by 2030 for the first time, blaming rapidly rising electricity demand from data centers serving artificial intelligence. Utility regulators in April will review a draft plan addressing shortages, with potential fines if the renewable portfolio standard isn’t met. Sierra Club officials and an industry group said the scale of new load is pressuring the state’s ability to build enough renewable power.

Biased kidney test fix credits Black candidates with waiting time

2026-03-13

A policy ordering hospitals to re-check past results from a race-based kidney function test appears to be improving access for some Black patients on transplant waiting lists, new research reports. The study found thousands of Black transplant candidates received credit for time they had lost under the now-ended test, potentially raising priority for those who might have qualified sooner. The findings were published in JAMA Internal Medicine.

Cuba to release 51 prisoners in rare move tied to Vatican talks

2026-03-13

Cuba’s government said it will release 51 people from prisons in the “upcoming days,” framing the decision as an act of goodwill and close relations with the Vatican. The announcement came Thursday night, hours before President Miguel Díaz-Canel is scheduled to speak to the press.

Eswatini receives third batch of U.S. deportees under Trump deals

2026-03-13

Four more African migrants deported from the United States arrived in Eswatini, authorities said Thursday. The government said the latest group includes a Tanzanian, a Sudanese and two Somali nationals who are to be repatriated to their home countries, while talks continue for other people sent under U.S. third-country agreements.

Immigration lawyers accuse Vermont prisons of impeding legal access

2026-03-13

Lawyers and advocates say Vermont’s Department of Corrections has made it harder for immigration detainees to meet with attorneys and receive interpretation help inside state prisons. They point to changes they say began after Jon Murad took over as interim commissioner, including limits on device access and reduced meeting access. Murad denied the characterization and said the department is enforcing policies and improving interpretation services.

Jim Clyburn will seek 18th House term, positioning him as Democratic elder

2026-03-13

U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina said Thursday he will run for an 18th term in the House, a decision that could keep him at the center of House Democratic leadership if Democrats regain the majority. Speaking at state party headquarters in Columbia, Clyburn, 85, said he is “very well equipped and healthy enough” for another term and plans a “very vigorous campaign.”

Canada to invest $32 billion in northern military bases to bolster Arctic sovereignty

2026-03-13

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Thursday that Ottawa will allocate an additional **$32 billion Canadian** to build and upgrade forward‑operating locations in Yellowknife, Inuvik, Iqaluit and Goose Bay. The spending, part of a broader northern‑infrastructure push, is intended to cement Canada’s claim over the increasingly contested Arctic region. Carney made the declaration in Yellowknife before departing for a NATO‑exercise visit to Norway.

280 Parties Register for Haiti's First Election in a Decade

2026-03-13

By March 12, a record 280 political parties had filed paperwork to run in Haiti’s first general election in ten years, meeting the deadline set by the Provisional Electoral Council. The surge of new parties—from the year‑old Collective of Haitian Actors for Development and Alternative Organization (CAHDOA) to former prime minister Claude Joseph’s EDE party—reflects a broad desire to address the nation’s chronic gang violence and corruption. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils‑Aimé, the country’s sole ruler under a transitional council, has pledged to hold the first round of voting by the end of the year, despite widespread doubts about security.

Nevada utility may miss renewable goal as data centers spike power demand

2026-03-13

Nevada’s largest utility, NV Energy, warned on Saturday that a surge in data‑center projects could push the state past its 2030 renewable‑energy target. The utility says demand from prospective data centers may require 47 percent more power than it projected two years ago, forcing it to consider greater reliance on natural gas to meet immediate needs. State officials and environmental groups say the shortfall threatens the clean‑energy standards approved by voters in 2020.

Live Nation employee mocks fans in Slack messages as antitrust trial nears

2026-03-13

U.S. government and state prosecutors on Thursday urged a federal judge to allow Slack messages from a Live Nation employee to be used in an ongoing antitrust trial over the company’s relationship with Ticketmaster. The messages, released in the public court record, include language prosecutors say mocks customers and brags about Live Nation profiting from fans. The judge, Arun Subramanian, encouraged negotiations among parties after the federal government announced a settlement this week.

Machado calls Trump a "fundamental ally" as U.S. backs Delcy Rodríguez

2026-03-13

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said Thursday that the Trump administration remains a “fundamental ally” for Venezuela’s democratic transition, even as the United States has supported acting President Delcy Rodríguez as the country’s legitimate president. Speaking in Santiago, Chile, Machado also said the U.S. is a partner and described a U.S.-backed road map that, she said, includes “three phases.”

Minnesota cities push for billions in water infrastructure funding in state bonding bill

2026-03-13

State officials say water projects dominate Minnesota’s $1 billion bonding bill requests, as rapidly growing communities such as Big Lake, Henderson and Becker scramble for state aid to upgrade aging wastewater and drinking‑water systems. Lawmakers are debating whether to approve the funding, with some Republicans warning that the bill could be used as political leverage, while local leaders stress the urgency of securing clean water for expanding populations.

Pope accepts Chaldean bishop’s resignation in embezzlement case

2026-03-13

Pope Leo XIV accepted the resignation of Chaldean Catholic bishop Emanuel Shaleta, who faces criminal charges accusing him of embezzling $270,000 from a parish in El Cajon, California, the Vatican announced Tuesday. The announcement came after Shaleta pleaded not guilty to 16 felony counts earlier this week.

Rep. Jim Clyburn Announces Run for 18th House Term at Age 85

2026-03-13

**Columbia, S.C. (AP)** — Long‑time South Carolina Democrat **Jim Clyburn** said Thursday he will seek an 18th term in the U.S. House of Representatives. The 85‑year‑old lawmaker, the dean of the state’s Democratic delegation, told party officials he is “healthy enough” to mount “a very vigorous campaign.” Clyburn’s decision comes as the Democratic Party eyes a possible return to the House majority in November.

Sheinbaum’s electoral reform bid fails; she says “Plan B” remains

2026-03-13

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum said Thursday that a “Plan B” would follow the defeat in Congress of a constitutional reform proposal on Mexico’s electoral system. She made the comments after her Morena party failed to secure the supermajority needed to pass the measure in the Chamber of Deputies on Wednesday evening.

Venezuela, Colombia cancel presidents’ meeting citing “force majeure”

2026-03-13

Venezuela and Colombia abruptly canceled a planned meeting between their presidents, with the governments citing “force majeure,” according to a joint statement released by Venezuela’s Foreign Affairs Ministry on Thursday. The meeting had been scheduled for the following day at their shared border, and would have been Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodríguez’s first official meeting with a Latin American leader since she was sworn in in January.

Closing arguments begin in landmark social media addiction trial

2026-03-13

Lawyers for a 20-year-old woman and social media giants Meta and YouTube made final appeals to a Los Angeles jury Thursday, arguing over whether platforms should be liable for harms to children. The bellwether trial could impact thousands of similar lawsuits.

Guatemala's New Constitutional Court Faces Trust Test

2026-03-13

GUATEMALA CITY — Guatemala's newly seated Constitutional Court must work to regain public trust after years of decisions that appeared to protect alleged criminals, experts said Thursday. The court, which returns four of its 10 magistrates, faces scrutiny over its independence and commitment to legal principles.

Cuba announces release of 51 prisoners, citing goodwill toward Vatican

2026-03-13

Havana’s government said Thursday night it would free 51 inmates in the coming days, describing the move as a gesture of goodwill tied to close relations with the Vatican. The announcement came hours before President Miguel Díaz‑Canel’s scheduled press briefing on national and international issues. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs added that all those slated for release have served a significant portion of their sentences and have maintained good conduct while incarcerated.

Black Kidney Patients Get Transplant Credit After Biased Test Remedy

2026-03-13

WASHINGTON (AP) — Thousands of Black kidney transplant candidates have received credit on the waiting list for time lost due to a discontinued race-based test, a policy change that increased their transplant rates without harming other groups, researchers report.

Canada boosts Arctic defense with $32B military investment

2026-03-13

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced $32 billion Canadian (US$24 billion) in new military infrastructure for the Arctic on Thursday, framing the investment as essential for sovereignty in an increasingly contested region.

Cuba to Release 51 Prisoners in Unexpected Move

2026-03-13

HAVANA — Cuba’s government announced Thursday night it will release 51 people from the island’s prisons in an unexpected move, citing goodwill and close Vatican ties. The decision comes hours before President Miguel Díaz-Canel addresses the nation and the world in a rare press conference.

Record 280 parties register for Haiti's first election in decade

2026-03-13

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — A record 280 political parties had registered by Thursday’s deadline for Haiti’s first general election in a decade, a showing activists called a step toward easing the country’s crises even as gang violence and insecurity cast doubt on whether the vote can proceed.

Trump presses SAVE America Act for midterms as House GOP highlights costs

2026-03-12

President Donald Trump told House Republicans he believes a voting bill combining tighter voter identification with bans on mail ballots and restrictions on transgender rights would “guarantee the midterms.” House Republican leaders, however, have emphasized tax cuts and energy independence as they close out their annual ideas conference this week, suggesting a disconnect between the White House’s message and congressional priorities.

US to permanently close consulate in Peshawar, shifting services to Islamabad

2026-03-12

The U.S. State Department will permanently close the U.S. consulate in Peshawar, Pakistan, and move consular services to the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, according to a notification Congress received. The department said the closure is intended to save $7.5 million per year and that it will not adversely affect core U.S. national interests in Pakistan.

South Africa deploys troops in Johannesburg to curb organized crime

2026-03-12

South Africa has deployed soldiers in Johannesburg to help police tackle gang violence and illegal mining, according to a notice from President Cyril Ramaphosa to Parliament. The initial deployment involves 550 troops in Gauteng province, which includes Johannesburg, and is scheduled to last until the end of April. The government said the army will operate under police command while police and the defense department provided limited details on the operation.

Pentagon blocks photographers from Hegseth briefings, Times seeks access

2026-03-12

Pentagon officials have blocked photographers from covering Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s last two briefings on the war in Iran, AP reported. AP said the Pentagon has not explained the change in longtime policy and that a spokesman declined to comment. The move comes as The New York Times pursues legal action against restrictions it says limit media coverage at the Pentagon.

Trump sons partly own drone maker seeking Pentagon contracts

2026-03-12

Powerus, a new drone maker partly owned by President Donald Trump’s sons, is seeking Pentagon contracts after the Trump administration banned importing armed drones from China, the Associated Press reported. The company said it has no conflict in bidding for federal money while the family benefits from its ownership, while a government ethics expert said the arrangement could create pressure on contract awards.

China adopts ethnic unity law, critics warn it accelerates assimilation

2026-03-12

China adopted a sweeping law on Thursday aimed at strengthening “ethnic unity,” according to officials who presented it to China’s legislature. Critics say it will further erode minority groups’ rights by accelerating assimilation efforts, including by requiring Mandarin Chinese to be taught in compulsory education nationwide.

California lawmakers grill DMV director Steve Gordon on deadly road failures

2026-03-12

California state lawmakers grilled Department of Motor Vehicles Director Steve Gordon at a Senate informational hearing Tuesday on road safety and DUI enforcement after an increase in road deaths. Lawmakers pressed Gordon on why the DMV has limited data on actions against dangerous drivers, and on how the agency investigates major crashes and repeat reckless driving offenders.

Czech lawmakers approve defense budget that falls short of NATO target

2026-03-12

Czech lawmakers on Wednesday approved a 2026 defense budget that falls short of NATO’s 2% of GDP spending target, despite pressure from the United States and President Petr Pavel. The vote in Parliament’s lower house allocated nearly 155 billion koruna ($7.4 billion) to the Defense Ministry, putting the figure at just over 1.7% of gross domestic product.

Trump’s shifting Iran war stance raises doubts about exit plan

2026-03-12

President Donald Trump has repeatedly adjusted his stated goal for the war launched against Iran, moving from talk of “unconditional surrender” to signals of a negotiated end state while refusing to rule out U.S. ground troops, an Associated Press report said. The changing messaging has unfolded during a conflict now entering its second week, with the Strait of Hormuz still crucially affected and Americans asking for a clearer timeline.

Trump administration misrepresents Carter’s view on mail-in voting

2026-03-12

The Trump administration has falsely claimed former President Jimmy Carter opposed mail-in and absentee voting, Associated Press reported in a fact check. The dispute hinges on how White House officials and President Donald Trump characterized a 2005 report while pushing federal legislation that would impose stricter voter proof-of-citizenship and photo ID requirements ahead of midterm elections.

Microsoft backs Anthropic in lawsuit challenging Pentagon AI ban

2026-03-12

Microsoft and a group of retired U.S. military leaders have filed in federal court to block the Trump administration’s designation of Anthropic as a supply-chain risk and a related Pentagon order that would bar the company from military work. The filings argue Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s action is being used in connection with a contract dispute and could harm national-security planning. A hearing is set for March 24 in the case before U.S. District Judge Rita Lin in San Francisco.

Blue states consider tax on millionaires to help fund vital services

2026-03-12

In several Democratic-led states, lawmakers are weighing new taxes on high-income households and investment earnings as budget needs grow. In Washington state, where lawmakers are debating a proposal that would create a nearly 10% annual tax on personal earnings over $1 million, supporters say the money would help fund free K-12 school meals, childcare and a family tax credit.

Your Hawaii lei’s orchids are from Thailand, lawmakers weigh labeling push

2026-03-12

Honolulu lawmakers and lei-industry figures are debating whether Hawaii should require clearer labeling for leis made with imported flowers, after a report that many of the purple orchid garlands tourists receive are grown in Thailand. The proposals include a state purchasing rule to favor in-state flowers and a potential work group in the Senate bill to study how to protect local growers.

Trump slams fellow Republican Massie during Kentucky rally

2026-03-12

President Donald Trump on Wednesday campaigned in Rep. Thomas Massie’s Kentucky district and attacked the lawmaker as a “nutjob,” while also touting efforts to lower prescription drug prices in Ohio. The stops came as war in Iran has scrambled financial markets and rattled Trump’s economic message.

South Africa summons US ambassador after criticism of affirmative action

2026-03-12

South Africa’s foreign minister said Wednesday the country summoned the new U.S. ambassador to explain his criticism of South Africa’s policies, as a diplomatic rift deepens. The ambassador, Leo Brent Bozell III, has taken aim at South Africa’s ties with Iran, parts of its affirmative action laws, and a land law allowing expropriation without compensation in some circumstances.

SSA watchdog investigates whistleblower complaint about restricted data misuse

2026-03-12

The Social Security Administration’s internal watchdog is investigating a whistleblower complaint alleging misuse of tightly restricted Social Security Administration data by a former Department of Government Efficiency worker, according to a document reviewed by The Associated Press. The inspector general said it opened the probe after receiving an anonymous complaint, and Sen. Ron Wyden called the allegations, if true, “one of the largest known data breaches in American history.”

San Jose tightens rules on license plate readers amid privacy lawsuit

2026-03-12

The San Jose City Council voted unanimously to adopt new safeguards for the city’s automated license plate reader network, including limits on camera placement and shorter data retention, as residents and an advocacy coalition press privacy concerns and a lawsuit. The changes reduce default storage of license plate reader data from one year to 30 days and add requirements governing how law enforcement can access the database, while the city continues to say the cameras help officers solve crimes.

St. Clair County public health board fights fluoride, vaccines amid leadership shakeup

2026-03-12

St. Clair County, Michigan, has become the center of a public fight over fluoride and childhood immunizations as county officials consider changes that critics say would expand the influence of county medical director Dr. Remington Nevin. Nevin and supporters argue the county’s public health choices should reflect local values and democratic control. Opponents, including health professionals and a NAACP leader, say the moves could undermine science-backed prevention.

Civil rights lawyer Michele Jawando to lead Omidyar Network’s AI push

2026-03-12

NEW YORK — Michele Jawando, a civil rights lawyer and former Google executive, will become CEO next month of Omidyar Network, the philanthropy started by eBay founder Pierre Omidyar. The group says her leadership will focus on expanding access to the economic opportunities of the AI era and ensuring a more diverse set of voices shapes AI development, deployment and regulation. Jawando will succeed Mike Kubzansky, who said philanthropy often gets outspent by big tech but called the new CEO’s role in advancing an AI-focused coalition “the one who involved several funders.”

Kim Jong Un tests pistols with teenage daughter at light munitions plant

2026-03-12

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un tested new pistols and other light weapons during an inspection of a light munitions factory, state media photos showed Thursday. The photos showed his teenage daughter firing alongside him and senior military officials, as KCNA said Kim rated a newly produced pistol “excellent.”

Vermont board presses Medicare fix after rural patients face higher bills

2026-03-12

Vermont’s Green Mountain Care Board is pushing for changes to Medicare payment rules after a “bizarre” disparity left some rural “critical access hospitals” charging Medicare patients more for outpatient services than they would pay at larger hospitals, even for the same procedures. The board discussed the issue at a Feb. 11 hearing and is asking for additional information by March 16 as budgets for next fiscal year are set.

Los Angeles schools superintendent denies wrongdoing, seeks reinstatement

2026-03-12

Federal agents searched the home of Los Angeles Unified’s superintendent, Alberto Carvalho, and the district’s headquarters as he remained on paid leave during a federal investigation. On Wednesday, Carvalho denied wrongdoing and asked the school board to reinstate him as head of the district. Authorities have not publicly detailed the investigation or any alleged crimes.

Democratic-led states seek to block federal agents from polling places

2026-03-12

Democratic-led states are taking steps to bar armed federal immigration officers from polling places ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, citing concerns about voter intimidation. New Mexico this week became the first state to limit armed federal personnel at polling sites, with other states considering similar measures.

Leavenworth approves CoreCivic permit to reopen prison for immigrants

2026-03-12

Leavenworth, Kansas, approved a permit allowing CoreCivic to reopen a shuttered private prison to house immigrants detained after crossing into the U.S. without authorization. The City Commission voted 4-1 on Tuesday, approving a three-year permit with conditions including minimum staffing, a ban on housing minors and a city oversight committee.

José Antonio Kast sworn in as Chile president in sharp rightward shift

2026-03-12

José Antonio Kast was sworn in as Chile’s president Wednesday in a ceremony at the National Congress in Valparaíso, with dozens of heads of state attending. In his first speech as president, Kast pledged an “emergency government” focused on combating crime and irregular migration.

UK publishes files on Peter Mandelson's US ambassador appointment

2026-03-12

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was warned that Peter Mandelson’s friendship with Jeffrey Epstein posed “reputational risk” if he appointed Mandelson as ambassador to the United States, documents published Wednesday show. Starmer appointed Mandelson anyway, then fired him nine months into the job after more details about the relationship emerged. The newly released files come after U.S. Justice Department materials on Epstein and pressure on Britain to disclose records about the appointment.

Harvard transfers early photos of enslaved people to South Carolina museum

2026-03-12

Descendants of people depicted in early photographs of enslaved residents from 1850 said they are relieved after Harvard University turned the images over to a museum in Charleston, South Carolina, following a seven-year legal fight. The International African American Museum announced the transfer on Wednesday.

New Iowa law bars local gender identity protections after civil rights rollback

2026-03-12

Iowa’s new state law bars cities and counties from adopting nondiscrimination protections based on gender identity that go beyond what Iowa code allows. The measure took effect Tuesday after Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds signed it, making Iowa the first state to rollback its civil rights code last year. Supporters said the preemption law will prevent conflicting local ordinances; opponents called it an “extreme overreach.”

UK ends hereditary peers in House of Lords after centuries-long practice

2026-03-12

Britain’s Parliament voted to remove hereditary aristocrats from the unelected House of Lords, a step that lawmakers say will end an “archaic and undemocratic” principle. Lords members dropped objections to legislation passed by the elected House of Commons, clearing the way for royal assent and for most hereditary peers to leave at the end of the current session.

UN panel condemns Trump over racist hate speech and immigration crackdown

2026-03-12

A U.N.-backed panel of independent experts said racist hate speech by U.S. President Donald Trump and other U.S. political leaders, alongside a crackdown on immigration, has led to “grave human rights violations,” according to a decision issued Wednesday. The Geneva-based Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination said it is urging the U.S. to suspend immigration enforcement operations at and near schools, hospitals and faith-based institutions while it evaluates whether immigration policies comply with international obligations.

South Korea lawmakers pass law to manage $350 billion US investment pledge

2026-03-11

South Korean lawmakers on Thursday passed a law to implement Seoul’s pledge of $350 billion in U.S. investments aimed at avoiding the Trump administration’s highest tariffs. The vote came as the Trump administration opened a new investigation into manufacturing abroad, including in U.S. allies, that could lead to additional import taxes.

Senegal parliament approves bill to toughen punishments for homosexual acts

2026-03-11

Senegal’s parliament has approved a bill that toughens punishments for homosexual acts, doubling prison terms from 1 to 5 years to 5 to 10 years. Introduced by Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, the bill also raises fines and targets what it calls the “promotion” or “financing” of homosexuality. The changes still require presidential assent before becoming law.

Rep. Bennie Thompson defeats Evan Turnage in Mississippi Democratic primary

2026-03-11

Rep. Bennie Thompson won the Democratic nomination for Mississippi’s 2nd Congressional District on Tuesday, beating challenger Evan Turnage in a contest that drew attention to the age gap and priorities inside the party. Thompson, a longtime civil rights leader who chairs the House Jan. 6 Committee, said he was looking to return to Washington as Democrats work to retake the House in November.

Virginia lawmakers vote to end tax breaks for data center industry

2026-03-11

Virginia senators have voted to end a projected $1.6 billion annual tax break for data centers, requiring the industry to resume paying a minimum 5.3% sales tax, AP reported. Officials said the proposal has already triggered infighting ahead of a budget deadline and may face opposition in the House.

Adirondacks residents clamor over proposed artillery testing

2026-03-11

Lews, N.Y., residents and environmentalists are pressing back against a proposal to conduct howitzer testing in the Adirondacks, saying it could disrupt private land and wildlife and trigger a rare public hearing. The Adirondack Park Agency scheduled the hearing for April 22 after the applicant sought approval for non-explosive barrel tests about 10 miles west of Lake Champlain.

Dorothy McAuliffe launches congressional bid in newly drawn Virginia district

2026-03-11

Virginia’s former first lady Dorothy McAuliffe said Wednesday she will run for Congress in a newly drawn district, putting her name in a crowded Democratic primary. McAuliffe said the district would be the sprawling 7th District, if a redistricting measure voters consider April 21 is approved.

US Sen. Jon Husted testifies remotely in ex-FirstEnergy corruption trial

2026-03-11

Republican U.S. Sen. Jon Husted testified Wednesday that he was present at a 2018 dinner with then-Ohio Gov.-elect Mike DeWine and two former FirstEnergy executives who are accused of bribing a top utility regulator. Husted, who testified remotely, said he recalled little about what was discussed and said he was not aware the executives planned to meet DeWine’s eventual pick to lead the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, Sam Randazzo.

Hungary to declassify security report tied to Ukraine funding claims

2026-03-11

Hungary will declassify a national security report that Prime Minister Viktor Orbán says will show Ukraine illegally financed the opposition Tisza party, a minister said March 12. Orbán has been running a campaign ahead of the April 12 election accusing Kyiv of backing Péter Magyar and Tisza, allegations Magyar denies.

China presents five-year plan as force for stability amid global turmoil

2026-03-11

China’s leadership used the National People’s Congress to endorse a five-year plan focused on advanced technology and a “force for stability” message, even as the world’s attention centers on the Iran war. At the closing session, lawmakers also approved three laws, including one governing ethnic minorities, and set an economic growth target for 2026 of 4.5% to 5%. (All figures and statements below are as described in the underlying reporting.)

Documents detail warnings before Starmer appointed Mandelson as U.S. envoy

2026-03-11

Prime Minister Keir Starmer released nearly 150 pages of documents detailing vetting warnings before he appointed Peter Mandelson, who had close ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as Britain’s ambassador to the United States. The release comes as Starmer faces continued political pressure after he later sacked Mandelson in September and after Mandelson was briefly arrested last month on allegations related to Epstein.

Ex-rapper Balendra Shah’s party wins big in Nepal parliamentary election

2026-03-11

Nepal’s electoral commission published results showing the Rastriya Swatantra Party, led by rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah, won the country’s first parliamentary election since last year’s youth-led revolt. The party secured 182 seats in the 275-member House of Representatives, giving it nearly a two-thirds share and setting up a multi-day process to form a new government.

Jill Biden details Joe Biden’s 2024 reelection exit in upcoming memoir

2026-03-11

Jill Biden is set to publish a memoir reflecting on her husband Joe Biden’s decision to end his 2024 presidential reelection bid and on her own years as first lady. In an interview with The Associated Press, she said the book, “View from the East Wing: A Memoir,” is scheduled for June 2 and was “somewhat healing” as she “wrote about” both difficult and beautiful moments.

Utah plans law to curb prediction markets Kalshi and Polymarket, set for court

2026-03-11

Utah is moving toward a law that would expand the state’s gambling prohibition to cover certain wagers in sports, aiming to limit prediction markets such as Kalshi and Polymarket. Gov. Spencer Cox said he will sign the legislation and warned it would place “a casino in the pocket of every single American,” a stance that has put Utah at odds with the federal Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Kalshi has already sued to block enforcement.

Visa changes squeeze rural schools relying on international teachers

2026-03-11

Rural districts that fill teacher vacancies with international educators face uncertainty as the Trump administration reshapes visa programs, school leaders and teachers said. In South Carolina’s Allendale County, Superintendent Vallerie Cave said some of the district’s best teachers are having to return home as visa sponsorship costs rise and contracts come due.

Trump tells GOP he will not sign bills without proof-of-citizenship vote plan

2026-03-10

President Donald Trump said Monday he will not sign any other legislation into law unless Congress sends him a “strict proof-of-citizenship” voting bill that would also curb Americans’ ability to vote by mail. Trump made the demand during a retreat for House Republicans at his golf club in Florida, as the SAVE America Act moves through Congress and Senate Republicans consider whether to bypass filibuster rules.

Gas prices reach $3.48 as Iran war sticker shock unites voters across party lines

2026-03-10

The national average price of gasoline reached $3.48 per gallon on Monday, up from $2.90 a month ago before U.S. military operations against Iran began, according to tracking by AAA — a surge that drew complaints from Trump voters, Democrats and independents at gas stations across Iowa, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Florida and North Carolina, even as those motorists remained divided over whether the war itself was justified.

Fuller, Harris advance to Georgia runoff to succeed Marjorie Taylor Greene

2026-03-10

Democrat Shawn Harris and Republican Clay Fuller advanced Tuesday to an April 7 runoff in the race to succeed Marjorie Taylor Greene in Georgia's 14th Congressional District, after no candidate secured a majority in a 14-person special election field. The contest fills the seat vacated by Greene, who resigned in January following a falling out with President Donald Trump.

Anthropic sues Trump administration to undo “supply chain risk” label

2026-03-10

Anthropic filed two lawsuits on Monday seeking to halt the Trump administration from enforcing a “supply chain risk” designation tied to the company’s refusal to allow unrestricted military use of its technology. The company also asked courts to unwind a federal directive ordering employees to stop using its Claude chatbot.

Alexander Butterfield, Nixon aide who disclosed Watergate tapes, dies at 99

2026-03-10

Alexander Butterfield, the White House aide who disclosed that President Richard Nixon’s Oval Office and Cabinet Room were bugged and that Nixon conversations were routinely recorded, has died. His death was confirmed to The Associated Press by his wife, Kim, and former White House counsel John Dean, who helped expose the Watergate scandal. Butterfield was 99.

Chaldean Catholic bishop in California resigns amid embezzlement charges

2026-03-10

Bishop Emanuel Shaleta of the Chaldean Catholic community in El Cajon, California, resigned from his post Tuesday after prosecutors charged him with allegedly taking more than $270,000 from his parish, and pleaded not guilty to 16 felony counts. Shaleta, 69, was arrested last week at San Diego International Airport while attempting to leave the country, the San Diego County Sheriff's Office said. Pope Leo XIV announced acceptance of the resignation Tuesday.

Smartmatic seeks to dismiss money laundering indictment, blames Trump retribution

2026-03-10

Voting technology firm Smartmatic filed a motion in Miami federal court Tuesday seeking to dismiss a criminal money laundering indictment, with attorneys arguing that President Donald Trump and his allies drove the prosecution as retaliation for the company's role in a $2.7 billion defamation lawsuit against Trump's media supporters.

Long airport security lines highlight problems during DHS shutdown

2026-03-10

Hourslong security lines at a handful of U.S. airports this week are drawing attention to potential disruptions when a government shutdown overlaps with spring break travel. Passengers at Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport reported wait times running more than three hours on Sunday and Monday, while other airports saw waits of more than an hour.

Nevada to use Google AI for unemployment appeals, lawmakers skeptical

2026-03-10

Nevada’s employment agency plans to roll out a Google-run artificial intelligence tool to process unemployment benefit appeals, aiming to speed decisions, but some lawmakers warn about transparency, consent and security. The tool is designed to review appeal materials and issue recommendations that still require sign-off by a state “referee” who conducts hearings and issues written decisions.

Dorothy McAuliffe launches congressional campaign in Virginia

2026-03-10

Dorothy McAuliffe, Virginia’s former first lady and a former U.S. State Department official, said Wednesday that she will run for Congress in a newly drawn district. If a constitutional amendment to create a new congressional map is approved in April, McAuliffe would campaign for the 7th District, which stretches from Arlington to western Augusta County.

Rep. Bennie Thompson defeats Evan Turnage in Mississippi Democratic primary

2026-03-10

Bennie Thompson, the longtime U.S. representative from Mississippi’s 2nd Congressional District, won the Democratic nomination Tuesday, defeating a younger challenger, Evan Turnage. Thompson, who chairs the House Jan. 6 Committee and has held the seat for more than three decades, is positioned to seek an 18th term in the November general election.

Kevin Kiley leaves GOP and will serve as an independent

2026-03-10

Rep. Kevin Kiley, a California Republican, said Monday he is dropping his party affiliation and will serve as an independent. Kiley, who is facing a tough reelection fight after district boundaries were redrawn, said the change will take place immediately.

Trump says Iran war could be over soon, warns on Strait of Hormuz oil

2026-03-10

In remarks to Republican lawmakers at his golf club near Miami, President Donald Trump said Monday that the war against Iran could be “short-term.” He also left open the possibility of wider escalation if Iran disrupts global oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, posting a message threatening U.S. strikes “TWENTY TIMES HARDER.” Hours earlier, Iran had selected Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as the Islamic Republic’s new supreme leader as fighting continued.

US intelligence assessment says Iran strikes unlikely to trigger regime change

2026-03-10

The Trump administration and Israel launched a war in Iran after a U.S. intelligence assessment concluded that American military intervention was unlikely to lead to regime change in the Islamic Republic, according to two people familiar with the findings. The National Intelligence Council’s February assessment said neither limited airstrikes nor a broader, prolonged campaign would likely produce a new government, even if Iran’s top leader was killed. U.S. officials disputed the war’s end-state even as the strikes removed prominent figures in Iran’s leadership, and Iran’s senior clerics later selected Mojtaba Khamenei as supreme leader.

Trump says Iran war could end soon, then warns of tougher strikes

2026-03-10

A day after U.S. and Israeli forces started a war against Iran, President Donald Trump said the conflict could be short but later threatened to intensify the campaign if Iran attempts to disrupt global oil supplies. His remarks moved oil prices and U.S. stock markets while Iran named a new hard-line Supreme Leader to oversee the fight.

State Department orders drawdown at more Middle East diplomatic missions

2026-03-10

The State Department ordered nonessential personnel and families to leave additional U.S. diplomatic missions in and around the Middle East on Monday, as it faces renewed criticism over contingency planning for the current Iran-related conflict. Department officials said the latest moves include ordering departures from Saudi Arabia and the U.S. consulate in Adana, Turkey. The department has also advised Americans in multiple Middle East countries to leave, and it said it has assisted more than 23,000 people with information or seats on charter flights.

Colombia’s Petro wins congressional election but lacks majority to advance reforms

2026-03-10

Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro’s party won the most seats in the Senate in Sunday’s congressional election, but it fell short of a governing majority needed to advance the administration’s top reforms. Petro’s Historical Pact secured nearly a quarter of Senate seats, while staunch opposition gains came from the conservative Democratic Center, led by former President Álvaro Uribe.

FBI obtains Arizona 2020 election records after Senate president hands over

2026-03-10

PHOENIX — Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen said he complied “late last week” with a federal grand jury subpoena and that “The FBI has the records,” handing over materials tied to a contentious 2020 election audit in Maricopa County. The Arizona attorney general, Kris Mayes, criticized the move, saying prior reviews found no evidence of widespread fraud that could have affected the outcome.

Canadian PM Mark Carney to visit Norway to observe NATO Cold Response

2026-03-10

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney plans to visit Norway on Friday to observe a NATO exercise, his office said Monday. Carney is expected to meet with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Oslo and later travel to the United Kingdom for talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

US designates Afghanistan as sponsor of wrongful detention

2026-03-10

The U.S. State Department designated Afghanistan as a sponsor of wrongful detention, accusing the Taliban of using “hostage diplomacy” in a bid to extract policy concessions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the announcement as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, raised the issue at a U.N. Security Council meeting.

Venezuelan lawmakers begin debate on mining bill to attract investors

2026-03-10

Venezuelan lawmakers began debating a bill proposed by acting President Delcy Rodríguez to regulate the country’s mining industry and create conditions aimed at attracting foreign investment, including investors seeking safeguards after past expropriations. The debate started Monday in Caracas after Rodríguez announced the measure last week during a visit by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum.

Wyoming governor signs abortion ban after about six weeks

2026-03-10

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon signed a law Monday that bans most abortions after embryonic “cardiac activity” can be detected, generally at about six weeks’ gestation. In a letter to lawmakers, Gordon said he has misgivings about the measure because it does not include exceptions for pregnancies caused by rape or incest.

After Milan Games gold, Gu and Liu divide opinion from Beijing to Washington

2026-03-10

Eileen Gu, 22, a freestyle skier born in San Francisco, competed for China at last month's 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics and won gold. Alysa Liu, 20, a figure skater born in California, competed for the United States and became the first American woman to win Olympic figure skating gold in 24 years. Both were born to Chinese immigrants and raised in single-parent households. The countries they chose to represent have turned their parallel triumphs into a flashpoint for debate stretching from Washington to Beijing.

State Department taps $40M emergency fund for Iran war evacuation flights

2026-03-10

The State Department authorized up to $40 million in emergency funds Tuesday to pay for charter evacuation flights for Americans leaving the Middle East, where the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran has disrupted commercial air travel since hostilities began Feb. 28, according to two U.S. officials who spoke on condition of anonymity. Secretary of State Marco Rubio separately waived the federal requirement that private Americans repay the government for such transportation. The department confirmed it had tapped the emergency account in response to a query but declined to specify how much it had authorized.

Israel says Iran using cluster munitions daily, killing 3 as bomblets evade air defenses

2026-03-10

Iran has been firing cluster munitions toward Israel on a "nearly daily basis" throughout the ongoing war, Israeli military officials said Tuesday, deploying weapons that scatter dozens of bomblets across wide areas that Israel's air-defense networks are not built to stop. At least three people have been killed by the submunitions, including two workers at a construction site in central Israel.

Six Iranian women's soccer players granted asylum in Australia as teammates depart

2026-03-10

Six members of Iran's women's national soccer team have been granted humanitarian visas to remain permanently in Australia after most of their teammates declined last-minute asylum offers at Sydney Airport and boarded a flight home Tuesday night, Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said Wednesday. Seven players had accepted visas before the team reached the airport; one of the seven later changed her mind and returned to Iran — a reversal that inadvertently disclosed the remaining six women's safe-house location to the Iranian embassy, forcing Australian authorities to move them immediately to a new site.

US destroys 16 Iranian mine-laying vessels as Iran threatens Gulf oil cutoff

2026-03-10

The U.S. military said Tuesday it had destroyed 16 Iranian vessels used for mine-laying in Gulf waters, releasing declassified images as evidence, even as President Donald Trump claimed on social media that there were no reports of Iran placing explosives in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Revolutionary Guard simultaneously vowed it would not allow "a single liter" of oil to be exported from the region to hostile nations. The conflicting signals emerged on the 11th day of the U.S.-Iran war, as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth pledged the most intense U.S. strikes yet and the Pentagon disclosed that seven American service members have been killed and approximately 140 wounded since the conflict began.

State Dept. evacuation charters run below 40% capacity as Iran war criticism mounts

2026-03-10

The State Department has authorized up to $40 million in emergency funds to charter flights for Americans leaving the Middle East, officials said Tuesday, as those government-organized aircraft have flown at less than 40 percent of capacity on average and the department faces mounting criticism over its response to travel disruptions caused by the Iran war.

Iranians flee to countryside as US-Israeli strikes drive tens of thousands from cities

2026-03-10

Tens of thousands of Iranians have left Tehran and other cities under aerial bombardment, driving into the countryside to wait out the U.S.-Israeli campaign in small villages and remote towns, according to the United Nations refugee agency and accounts gathered by The Associated Press. The U.N. said roughly 100,000 people fled Tehran in the first two days of the conflict alone — a figure officials said likely understates the total displacement from a capital of about 9.7 million people.

State Farm settlement caps California homeowner hikes, offers condo and rental refunds

2026-03-10

A proposed settlement among California's Insurance Department, consumer advocacy group Consumer Watchdog, and State Farm would hold homeowner insurance rate increases to 17 percent — less than the 30 percent the company had sought — while condo and rental-unit policyholders would receive refunds with interest, the parties disclosed last week. State Farm, California's largest home insurer with roughly 20 percent of the state market, obtained approval for emergency rate increases last May after the Los Angeles-area wildfires placed the company under severe financial strain. The settlement would save the company's California policyholders a combined $530 million, according to Consumer Watchdog.

White House fires NTSB member Todd Inman; he denies misconduct

2026-03-10

The White House said it fired National Transportation Safety Board member Todd Inman after reports of misconduct, including alcohol use on the job and harassment of staff, but Inman denied the allegations. Inman said he had been fired on Friday without explanation, despite a term that was supposed to run through the end of 2027.

D.C. bar charges DOJ's Ed Martin with misconduct over Georgetown Law threat

2026-03-10

Washington's attorney-discipline office filed professional misconduct charges March 7 against Ed Martin, the Justice Department's pardon attorney, accusing him of violating the Constitution when, as interim U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., he threatened Georgetown Law School's dean with a student hiring freeze if the school did not eliminate its diversity, equity and inclusion programs. The charges were filed by Disciplinary Counsel Hamilton Fox with the Office of Disciplinary Counsel, which enforces ethics standards for D.C.-licensed attorneys. Fox is asking a D.C. Court of Appeals panel to determine whether discipline is warranted. Martin, who did not immediately respond to requests for comment, has 20 days to formally respond in writing.

Connecticut lawmakers weigh statewide bell-to-bell cellphone bans in schools

2026-03-10

Connecticut lawmakers are considering whether to make bell-to-bell cellphone bans in schools statewide policy, after districts including Meriden adopted tighter rules aimed at improving focus. At a Feb. 20 public hearing, Education Committee members and residents argued over local control, classroom technology access, and safety concerns if phones are restricted. Supporters cite concerns about social media’s effects on young people, while opponents say policies can be tailored without an all-day ban.

Alabama governor commutes death sentence of man who didn't fire fatal shot

2026-03-10

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey on Tuesday commuted the death sentence of Charles "Sonny" Burton, a 75-year-old inmate who was scheduled to be executed by nitrogen gas later that week, even though he had left the building before his accomplice fired the shot that killed a customer during a 1991 robbery. Ivey reduced Burton's sentence to life in prison without the possibility of parole, marking only the second time the Republican governor has granted clemency to a death row inmate since taking office in 2017.

Alabama governor commutes death row man's sentence, citing disparity with triggerman

2026-03-10

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey commuted the death sentence of Charles "Sonny" Burton, 75, to life in prison without the possibility of parole on Tuesday, two days before he was scheduled to be executed for a 1991 robbery murder in which he did not fire the fatal shot. Burton had been convicted of capital murder in the shooting death of Doug Battle at a Talladega auto parts store; a co-defendant, Derrick DeBruce, fired the weapon. DeBruce's death sentence was later reduced to life on appeal, and he died in prison.

Virginia senators vote to end $1.6B annual tax break for data centers

2026-03-10

Virginia senators have voted to end a projected $1.6 billion annual tax break for the data-center industry, requiring companies to resume paying a minimum 5.3% sales tax. The proposal is now headed for the House as the state faces a looming budget deadline, and supporters argue it could fund priorities while opponents warn it would chill new construction.

Adirondacks residents clamor over proposed howitzer artillery testing

2026-03-10

Lewis, N.Y., is holding a rare public hearing on a proposal to test a large howitzer in a rural Adirondack Park town, drawing sharp opposition from residents and environmentalists. Critics say the blasts could disturb nearby private property and wildlife, while the project backer says the tests would involve non-explosive rounds and support national security research.

Jill Biden opens up in memoir on decision to end 2024 reelection bid

2026-03-10

Jill Biden said in a telephone interview with The Associated Press that her upcoming memoir will reflect on her four years as first lady, including the period when President Joe Biden ended his 2024 reelection bid. Gallery Books announced the book, “View from the East Wing: A Memoir,” scheduled for June 2.

US Sen. Jon Husted testifies at Ohio corruption trial via remote call

2026-03-10

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Republican U.S. Sen. Jon Husted testified Wednesday, remotely, that he attended a 2018 dinner with then-Ohio Gov.-elect Mike DeWine and two former FirstEnergy executives now on trial for alleged bribery of a utility regulator. Husted said he recalled little about what was discussed and denied knowing that the executives planned to meet DeWine’s eventual pick to lead the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio right after the dinner.

GOP-led fight over “indoctrination” allegations strains University of Houston

2026-03-10

A GOP-led push in Texas to curb what Republican lawmakers call “liberal indoctrination” has reached the University of Houston, where some deans have asked faculty to certify that they “teach, not indoctrinate.” The university says the steps are tied to a new state law and that a draft checklist is optional, not required.

California has 40,000 affordable units ready, but funding delays remain

2026-03-10

California has about 40,000 affordable housing units “ready to break ground” but stuck because sponsors lack enough money to start construction, an industry report and developers said. Enterprise Community Partners estimates 39,880 projects are “shovel-ready” yet awaiting additional state and federal subsidies, creating what advocates call a “bottleneck.”

America's fight with high costs plays out in Nevada's housing market

2026-03-10

Democrats are trying to build midterm momentum around housing affordability as prices and mortgage payments strain renters and would-be buyers in Nevada, a key swing state for closely contested U.S. House races. A Las Vegas food runner, Brian Torres Suazo, said he expects to keep sharing an apartment as high housing costs keep homeownership out of reach. Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, have faced growing pressure to address affordability and have pushed policies aimed at housing demand and mortgage access.

ICE releases teen mariachi brothers after bipartisan criticism

2026-03-10

A family from South Texas said Monday that two teen brothers in a nationally recognized mariachi program were released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody after bipartisan criticism of how the family was detained. The brothers, Antonio Gámez-Cuéllar, 18, and Joshua Gámez-Cuéllar, 14, were detained Feb. 25 along with their parents and their 12-year-old brother, before Antonio was released separately Monday from a facility in Raymondville, Texas.

Ig Nobels shifts ceremony to Zurich due to US visa concerns

2026-03-10

The organizers of the annual Ig Nobels, a satirical prize for scientific work, said Monday the 36th ceremony will be held in Zurich, Switzerland, instead of the United States due to concerns that attendees may not be able to obtain U.S. visas. The move comes as the Trump administration focuses on deporting migrants in the country illegally and also on holders of student and visitor exchange visas, organizers said.

Judge limits tear gas use during protests at Portland ICE building

2026-03-10

A federal judge in Oregon on Monday restricted federal officers from using tear gas and other chemical or projectile munitions during protests at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in Portland. The order came after a lawsuit filed by the ACLU of Oregon on behalf of protesters and freelance journalists, who said they were sprayed with OC spray and hit with other munitions.

FAA briefly grounds all JetBlue flights after system outage, lifts stop in 40 minutes

2026-03-10

The Federal Aviation Administration imposed a brief ground stop on all JetBlue flights early Tuesday at the airline's request after a system outage disrupted operations. The FAA lifted the order approximately 40 minutes after it was issued, the agency said in a notice posted to its website. JetBlue said the outage had been resolved and that it had resumed operations.

Beta Technologies wins federal pilot slot for electric medical flights in Vermont

2026-03-10

Beta Technologies, the electric aircraft maker based in South Burlington, Vermont, said Monday it had been selected for a Trump administration federal pilot program that will allow the company to begin medical and cargo logistics flights between Vermont and New York this year. The company was approved for seven of the eight projects it applied for within the program, company leadership announced in an investor call.

Alameda County public defender refuses trial over absence of Black jurors

2026-03-10

Alameda County Chief Public Defender Brendon Woods refused to proceed with a misdemeanor trial Thursday after the jury pool in an Oakland courtroom contained no Black prospective jurors, triggering a confrontation with the presiding judge and a partial remedy that legal observers said still left the defendant with slim odds of a Black juror. The defendant, Eboni Route, is a Black Oakland woman facing misdemeanor charges of battery against a police officer and resisting arrest. Woods told Judge Pelayo Llamas that without any Black representation in the panel, Route could not receive a fair trial by her peers.

Meta to acquire Moltbook, the social network for AI agents

2026-03-10

Meta said Tuesday it will acquire Moltbook, a social network built exclusively for artificial intelligence agents to post messages and interact with each other. The deal, whose financial terms were not disclosed, will bring Moltbook co-founders Matt Schlicht and Ben Parr into the company behind Facebook and Instagram. Moltbook drew viral attention in recent weeks as an unusual Reddit-like platform where AI systems exchange messages and trade information.

Ethics office charges DOJ official Ed Martin over threatening letter to Georgetown Law dean

2026-03-10

Washington's attorney ethics office has filed professional misconduct charges against Ed Martin, the Justice Department's pardon attorney, for a letter he sent last year to Georgetown Law School's dean threatening to bar the school's students from federal prosecutor jobs unless the university eliminated its diversity, equity and inclusion programs. The Office of Disciplinary Counsel filed the charges on Friday, accusing Martin of violating his oath of office and the Constitution's protections for free speech and due process. Disciplinary Counsel Hamilton Fox is asking a panel of D.C. Court of Appeals officials to determine whether discipline is warranted.

Cuba to withdraw medical brigade from Guyana as US pressure unravels Caribbean missions

2026-03-10

Cuba is preparing to withdraw its medical brigade of more than 200 doctors from Guyana, ending a program that spanned nearly 50 years, after Guyana moved to pay Cuban physicians their full salaries directly rather than route most of the payments to the Cuban government. Guyana's Health Minister Frank Anthony confirmed Monday that Cuban authorities had asked their doctors to prepare to leave. Jamaica and Honduras ended their own Cuban medical missions last week in disputes over the same direct-payment question.

Americas press freedom suffered 'dramatic deterioration' in 2025, watchdog says

2026-03-10

A regional press freedom watchdog said Tuesday that journalists across the Americas faced homicides, arbitrary arrests, and widespread impunity in 2025, calling it one of the worst years on record for media freedoms in the hemisphere. The Miami-based Inter American Press Association released its annual Chapultepec Index evaluating 23 countries from Canada and the United States to Venezuela and Nicaragua, ranking Venezuela and Nicaragua as nations "without freedom of speech" and placing the United States in the "restrictions" category, noting 170 attacks against journalists there last year.

Global Entry resumes after DHS stopped program during shutdown

2026-03-10

The Department of Homeland Security restarted the Global Entry program on Wednesday, a little over two weeks after it halted the service during a partial government shutdown. Global Entry lets pre-approved, low-risk travelers use expedited kiosks for a fee when entering the United States from abroad.

Muslim inmates awarded $667K after pepper spray during prayer in Missouri

2026-03-10

A federal jury in Missouri awarded $667,000 in damages Monday to a group of Muslim men who alleged they were pepper-sprayed by correctional officers while praying. The verdict was reached in a lawsuit filed in eastern Missouri U.S. District Court that also alleged the men were denied religious rights, placed in solitary confinement after praying, and then denied access to basic hygiene while being sprayed.

Some Iranians leave Iran through Turkey border amid war shutdown

2026-03-09

A land crossing near Turkey’s Van province has offered some Iranians a temporary route to the rest of the world as Iran’s airspace shuts down following strikes on Tehran that triggered wider conflict in the Middle East, the Associated Press reported March 8. At the Kapıköy border crossing, many travelers said they planned to leave for a limited period, while only a small number told AP they intended to stay in Turkey indefinitely.

Trump's pick faces Democrat Roy Cooper in pivotal North Carolina Senate race

2026-03-09

Roy Cooper, a two-term Democrat governor, is trying to keep his political winning streak alive in North Carolina’s 2026 U.S. Senate race against Michael Whatley, a Republican backed by former President Donald Trump. Both won their party primaries this week, setting up a contest Democrats say could test GOP control in Washington and Republicans hope will flip the state’s Senate representation.

China's five-year plan targets AI, semiconductors, and tech self-sufficiency

2026-03-09

China's National People's Congress unveiled two major economic plans this week that outline Beijing's strategy for managing sluggish domestic demand and intensifying U.S. technological competition. The 2026 annual plan ranked "building a robust domestic market" as its top priority, while the accompanying five-year plan placed greater emphasis on achieving technological breakthroughs — targeting artificial intelligence, semiconductors, biotechnology, and 6G mobile networks among its core goals.

Thune says Senate will consider SAVE bill, but votes aren’t there

2026-03-09

The Senate will consider a bill known as the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility, or SAVE, America Act that would impose stricter proof-of-citizenship requirements for elections, Majority Leader John Thune said Tuesday. But Thune said Republicans lack the votes to pass it through a “marathon” talking filibuster demanded by President Donald Trump.

Polish President Nawrocki rejects EU €44 billion defense-loan bill

2026-03-09

Polish President Karol Nawrocki refused to sign a law that would allow Poland to tap almost €44 billion in preferential EU defense loans, warning that the move would increase dependence on Brussels. The president proposed an alternative bill that would rely on national resources instead. Nawrocki’s office said he has until March 20 to decide whether to veto the government’s law.

Judge rules Kari Lake lacked authority to dismantle Voice of America

2026-03-09

A federal judge ruled Saturday that Kari Lake, President Donald Trump’s choice to lead the U.S. Agency for Global Media, did not have legal authority to take actions that largely dismantled the Voice of America. U.S. District Court Judge Royce C. Lamberth said Lake could not serve as a principal officer because she did not meet the requirements in law or the Constitution, and he wrote that only the Appointments Clause or the Vacancies Act’s structure can authorize such service.

Judges in Milwaukee won't extend interim US attorney Brad Schimel

2026-03-09

Federal judges in Milwaukee decided Tuesday not to extend interim U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel’s appointment for Wisconsin beyond next week. The interim term runs for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, headquartered in Milwaukee, and is set to expire March 17.

Trump says Vance was “philosophically” different on Iran, but no split

2026-03-09

President Donald Trump said his vice president, JD Vance, was “philosophically a little bit different than me” at the outset of the war in Iran, while also dismissing the idea of a disagreement between them. Speaking to reporters Monday at his golf club in Doral, Florida, Trump said Vance was “maybe less enthusiastic about going” but that launching U.S. airstrikes in Iran alongside Israel was necessary.

Jackson and Kavanaugh spar over Supreme Court emergency orders for Trump

2026-03-09

In a federal courtroom lecture, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson and Justice Brett Kavanaugh sparred over the Supreme Court’s emergency orders that allow President Donald Trump to move forward with parts of his agenda while legal challenges proceed. Jackson criticized what she called a “real unfortunate problem” in the court’s approach to the emergency docket, while Kavanaugh said administrations often have to “push the envelope in regulations” as Congress becomes harder to navigate.

Early polls show Americans split over U.S. military action against Iran

2026-03-09

Americans are divided along party lines on U.S. military action against Iran, according to recent polls conducted since the war began, with most showing opposition higher than support. Many voters also say the strikes make the United States “less safe” and express concern that the conflict could raise oil and gasoline prices and last “months,” if not longer. The polls also suggest skepticism about President Donald Trump’s decisions as the conflict faces uncertainty over how far it could expand.

Judge disqualifies DOJ officials in New Jersey U.S. attorney case

2026-03-09

A federal judge on March 9 disqualified three Justice Department officials from overseeing federal prosecutions in New Jersey, saying they were appointed as part of an illegal power grab by the Trump administration. U.S. District Judge Matthew Brann ruled that the Trump administration’s structure violated the Constitution’s Appointments Clause, which requires Senate confirmation for U.S. attorneys.

Ex-rapper-led upstart party surges toward Nepal election landslide win

2026-03-09

Rastriya Swatantra (National Independent Party), led by rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah, was set for a landslide win in Nepal’s first parliamentary election since youth-led protests ousted the old leadership, according to preliminary results released Sunday by the Election Commission. The party won 117 of 165 directly elected seats and also led in eight other constituencies, with officials still counting votes and final results expected later this week.

Paraguay lawmakers approve SOFA deal expanding U.S. military presence

2026-03-09

Paraguay lawmakers on Tuesday approved a U.S.-Paraguay Status of Forces Agreement, allowing temporary U.S. military and civilian personnel to be present in Paraguay. The Chamber of Deputies vote passed the deal with 53 lawmakers in favor, eight against, four abstentions, and 15 absent, and it awaits President Santiago Peña’s signature to take effect. The agreement sets a legal framework for training, joint exercises and humanitarian assistance, and it would give the United States criminal jurisdiction over its personnel while in Paraguay.

Pentagon and FAA agree to test anti-drone lasers at White Sands

2026-03-09

The Pentagon and the Federal Aviation Administration have agreed to conduct anti-drone laser tests at New Mexico’s White Sands Missile Range on Saturday and Sunday, the Pentagon said. The agreement follows FAA airspace closures in Texas after the military’s earlier deployment of the lasers led the agency to quickly shut down parts of the airspace.

17 candidates contest Georgia's 14th District seat in Tuesday special election

2026-03-09

Voters in Georgia's 14th Congressional District will choose among 17 candidates Tuesday in a special election to fill the seat vacated by former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who resigned in January following a public rift with President Donald Trump. Twelve Republicans and three Democrats are competing for the northwest Georgia seat, which Trump carried with 68% of the vote in 2024. Polls close at 7 p.m. ET.

Former Missouri House speaker gets 21-month sentence for COVID relief fraud

2026-03-09

A federal court sentenced former Missouri Republican House Speaker John Diehl to 21 months in prison Monday after he admitted using federal COVID-19 relief loans for personal expenses, including country club dues, swimming pool maintenance, home mortgage payments, and vehicle costs. Diehl received approximately $380,000 in Small Business Administration loans for his law firm between 2020 and 2022 through a pandemic relief program designed to help businesses cover operating expenses.

Thousands flee Akobo in South Sudan after army issues evacuation order

2026-03-09

Thousands of civilians fled the opposition-held town of Akobo in eastern South Sudan after the army ordered the United Nations to close its nearby base, officials said March 8. The exodus began late Saturday night, as fighting was reported west of Akobo and local officials said women, children and elderly people crossed into Ethiopia.

Second NTSB member says he was fired by the Trump administration

2026-03-09

Todd Inman, a member of the National Transportation Safety Board, said he was fired by the Trump administration without explanation. In a statement Sunday, Inman said he received notice from the White House personnel office on Friday that his NTSB position was “terminated effective immediately.” The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Pope Leo XIV appoints Vatican diplomat as new US ambassador

2026-03-09

Pope Leo XIV named Italian Archbishop Gabriele Caccia as the Holy See’s new ambassador to the United States, a role that will put the Vatican at the center of U.S.-Holy See diplomacy during tensions over Iran and immigration. Caccia, 68, replaces retiring French-born Cardinal Christophe Pierre, who has been apostolic nuncio in Washington.

Judge to decide if Penn must produce records in antisemitism probe

2026-03-09

A federal judge in Pennsylvania will decide whether the University of Pennsylvania must produce records sought by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in an investigation into whether antisemitism created a hostile work environment for Jewish employees and faculty. The EEOC asked U.S. District Judge Gerald Pappert to enforce an administrative subpoena filed against Penn’s board of trustees, according to court filings described at a Tuesday hearing. Penn argues the dispute is limited to the EEOC’s request that it build lists that could reveal employees’ Jewish faith or ancestry and other personal details, including home addresses and contact information.

Trump orders release of 172 million barrels from Strategic Petroleum Reserve

2026-03-09

The price of oil has surged since the U.S. and Israel began their war against Iran, and President Donald Trump is now turning to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to help cool markets. The Trump administration confirmed it will release 172 million barrels starting next week, with deliveries spread over about 120 days, as part of a wider emergency-stockpile effort led by the International Energy Agency.

Uber expands women-only driver matching option nationwide in U.S.

2026-03-09

Uber launched Monday a feature that lets women riders and women drivers be matched with other women across the U.S., rolling out nationwide despite an ongoing California lawsuit challenging the policy. The company said the option is designed to address safety concerns tied to its ride-hailing platform.

Vermont audit says child care oversight gaps could cost federal funds

2026-03-09

Vermont State Auditor Doug Hoffer said a 39-page report found gaps in the state’s child care oversight that could pose safety risks and jeopardize federal funding. The audit pointed to inconsistent handling of providers’ violations, incomplete and lengthy background checks, and outdated technology used to track violations.

DHS shutdown stretches airport security lines to hours during spring break

2026-03-09

Travelers at William P. Hobby Airport in Houston and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport encountered security checkpoint waits of up to three hours Sunday, as a shortage of Transportation Security Administration agents — stemming from the ongoing Department of Homeland Security shutdown — disrupted spring break travel. Houston Airports at one point asked travelers to arrive four to five hours before their flights.

Iran names Mojtaba Khamenei as supreme leader amid widening Mideast war

2026-03-08

Iran's Assembly of Experts named Mojtaba Khamenei — the 56-year-old son of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei — as the Islamic Republic's next supreme leader on Monday, as Iranian forces widened missile and drone strikes against oil and water infrastructure across Gulf Arab states. The announcement came as the conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel entered its second week, with the war's toll surpassing 1,600 dead and global oil prices climbing above $100 a barrel.

China calls 2026 a 'landmark year' for US ties ahead of expected Trump-Xi summit

2026-03-08

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Sunday that Beijing hopes 2026 will be a "landmark year" for its relationship with the United States, striking a conciliatory tone at an annual press briefing on the sidelines of China's ceremonial legislature that customarily sets the country's diplomatic agenda for the year. Wang said President Donald Trump is expected to visit Beijing for a summit with China's President Xi Jinping at the end of March, and that the groundwork is already being laid, though he did not formally confirm the visit.

Counterprotester threw improvised explosive at anti-Islam rally outside NYC mayor's home

2026-03-08

A counterprotester hurled an improvised explosive device into a crowd at an anti-Islam rally outside New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's residence on Saturday, the city's police commissioner said. The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force joined the investigation on Sunday as police identified a second suspicious device in a parked vehicle, prompting street closures and limited building evacuations in Manhattan's Upper East Side.

Thousands mark Bloody Sunday's 61st anniversary as Voting Rights Act faces Supreme Court test

2026-03-08

Thousands gathered in Selma, Alabama, on Sunday to mark the 61st anniversary of Bloody Sunday, the March 7, 1965, attack on civil rights marchers that helped spur passage of the Voting Rights Act. The commemoration drew Democratic governors, civil rights leaders, and survivors of the original march to the Edmund Pettus Bridge as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to rule on a case that could limit a core provision of the landmark law.

Guinea dissolves 40 political parties; opposition warns of 'party-state'

2026-03-08

Guinea's government dissolved 40 political parties by decree on Friday, including the country's largest opposition groupings, prompting the exiled leader of the main opposition party to accuse President Mamadi Doumbouya of building a one-party state. The Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization cited "failure to meet their obligations" as the grounds for the dissolution, which strips the affected parties of their legal status and bans their political activity, including the use of their names, logos, emblems, and symbols.

Colombia votes for new Congress as fraud claims shadow presidential primaries

2026-03-08

BOGOTÁ — Colombians voted Sunday for a new Congress and selected presidential candidates from three major political coalitions, with the election shadowed by government allegations of fraud at the Venezuelan border and a security alert for political violence in rural regions dominated by illegal armed groups. Colombian Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez said authorities detected about 2,400 people allegedly attempting to enter Colombia through an unauthorized border crossing with Venezuela in Norte de Santander, despite announced border closures during the vote. President Gustavo Petro described the incident as "large-scale fraud" and an "avalanche of illegal voting." Hours later, Sánchez said authorities had responded and no people remained in the area, and that an investigation had been opened.

Fox News apologizes for airing archival Trump footage at dignified transfer ceremony

2026-03-08

Fox News apologized Sunday for broadcasting archival footage of President Donald Trump during its coverage of a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base, where the remains of six U.S. soldiers killed in the Middle East were returned Saturday. The network said a staff member inadvertently selected footage of Trump from an earlier ceremony, which aired on two Sunday morning telecasts in place of footage from the Saturday event. The archival footage showed Trump without the baseball cap he wore at Saturday's ceremony, drawing scrutiny from critics who questioned whether the substitution was intentional. Fox News maintained the substitution was an honest mistake.

Carney calls three by-elections as Liberals seek majority in Commons

2026-03-08

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Sunday called special elections in three parliamentary districts, a move that could deliver his Liberal government a majority in the House of Commons. Votes in the Toronto-area ridings of Scarborough Southwest and University-Rosedale and in the Montreal-area riding of Terrebonne are set for April 13, according to the Associated Press. The Liberals currently hold 169 of the 338 seats in the House of Commons and need 172 to govern without opposition support.

Women rally worldwide on 115th International Women's Day, demanding equal rights

2026-03-08

Tens of thousands of women marched across Europe, Latin America and Asia on Sunday to mark International Women's Day, calling for equal pay, an end to gender-based violence, and expanded rights for women around the world, the Associated Press reported. In Berlin, an estimated 20,000 people attended the march — double the number police had anticipated — while demonstrations drew large crowds in Santiago, São Paulo, Madrid and dozens of other cities. The 2026 commemorations carried particular urgency in Chile, where marchers rallied days before the scheduled inauguration of far-right president-elect José Antonio Kast, and in Brazil, where outrage over an alleged gang rape in Rio de Janeiro galvanized demonstrators.

Brazil Women's Day marches demand end to femicide amid Copacabana gang-rape case

2026-03-08

Brazilians marched in at least 15 cities on International Women's Day, Sunday, demanding an end to femicide and sexual violence as five suspects faced charges in the alleged gang rape of a 17-year-old girl in Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana neighborhood. The case, which occurred in January, gained national attention this week after four suspects surrendered to authorities; a fifth, a minor, turned himself in Friday to face an equivalent charge under juvenile law. Organizers called the demonstrations a direct response to surging violence against women across the country.

US weapons stockpiles under strain as Iran war enters second week, Democrats warn

2026-03-07

As U.S. and Israeli forces continue strikes on Iran now in their second week, Democratic lawmakers and defense experts are raising questions about the long-term adequacy of American weapons stockpiles — particularly the Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense interceptors central to the missile defense campaign. The Trump administration has insisted the military has what it needs, while announcing that major defense contractors have agreed to quadruple production of certain munitions.

Videos challenge DHS account of fatal shooting of US citizen by immigration agent in Texas

2026-03-07

Body camera footage released Friday calls into question the Department of Homeland Security's account that Ruben Ray Martinez intentionally rammed a federal agent with his car before he was shot and killed. The videos — made public following public records requests by The Associated Press and other news organizations — show Martinez's car moving slowly through a South Padre Island, Texas, intersection in the seconds before HSI Supervisory Special Agent Jack Stevens fired three shots through the driver's side window on March 15, 2025. Martinez, a 23-year-old U.S. citizen from San Antonio, died of his wounds.

States advance proof-of-citizenship voting laws as Senate filibuster stalls federal bill

2026-03-07

South Dakota and Utah gave final legislative approval this week to proof-of-citizenship requirements for voter registration, while Florida, Michigan, and Missouri advanced similar measures, as Republican-controlled states pressed ahead without waiting for a deadlocked U.S. Senate. The federal Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act — backed by President Donald Trump and passed by the Republican-led House on a mostly party-line vote last month — has stalled in the Senate under a Democratic filibuster threat. Federal law already bars noncitizens from voting in U.S. elections; current registration requires applicants to affirm citizenship under penalty of perjury.

Trump attends dignified transfer for six soldiers killed in Middle East war

2026-03-07

President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance joined the families of six fallen U.S. soldiers Saturday at Dover Air Force Base for the dignified transfer of service members killed by a drone strike at a command center in Kuwait. The soldiers — all Army Reserve members from the 103rd Sustainment Command based in Des Moines, Iowa — died one day after the United States and Israel launched their military campaign against Iran, according to the Associated Press.

Appeals court blocks Trump bid to end TPS for 350,000 Haitians

2026-03-07

A federal appeals court ruled Friday against the Trump administration's effort to revoke Temporary Protected Status for roughly 350,000 Haitians living in the United States, dealing a setback to the administration's mass deportation campaign. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit issued the decision 2-1, upholding a lower court's ruling that had blocked the revocation.

Rep. Darrell Issa retires, adding pressure on House Republicans' narrow majority

2026-03-07

California Republican Rep. Darrell Issa announced Friday he will retire from Congress rather than seek reelection in a redrawn Southern California district, reversing a public pledge made just three months earlier that he would not quit. The retirement adds uncertainty to the race for the 48th Congressional District and intensifies pressure on Republicans' already slim House majority.

Pentagon bars Anthropic from defense contracts after AI weapons talks collapse

2026-03-07

The Pentagon has designated AI company Anthropic a supply chain risk — effectively cutting it off from defense contracts — after months of negotiations over use of its Claude chatbot in autonomous weapons systems broke down, a top Defense Department official said Friday. Defense Undersecretary Emil Michael, the Pentagon's chief technology officer, said talks with Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei collapsed over the company's refusal to allow unrestricted military use of Claude, including in fully autonomous weapons and bulk surveillance operations. Anthropic said it would sue over the designation.

Jan. 6 police plaque installed at Capitol three years after Congress mandated it

2026-03-07

Workers installed a plaque at the U.S. Capitol overnight Saturday honoring police officers who defended the building on Jan. 6, 2021, completing an installation required by law more than two years after its legal deadline had passed. The plaque — the first official marker of the Jan. 6 attack at the Capitol — was placed on the Senate side after years of delay blocked by House Speaker Mike Johnson, with two injured officers saying their lawsuit over the installation's compliance with federal law will continue.

Xi demands military loyalty as China's anti-corruption purge claims 12 officers

2026-03-07

China's President Xi Jinping on Saturday demanded absolute political loyalty in the military and called for pressing forward the fight against corruption, as Beijing's annual legislative sessions were marked by the dismissal of a dozen senior officers from state bodies. Xi spoke at a plenary meeting of the People's Liberation Army and People's Armed Police Force delegation during the annual "two sessions" gatherings of China's top legislature and top political advisory body. His remarks came after the National People's Congress dismissed nine military officers last week and three generals were removed from the advisory body this week.

Tunisia detains flotilla activists in financial crimes probe targeting Gaza aid campaign

2026-03-07

Tunisian authorities detained three members of the Global Sumud Flotilla steering committee Friday as the country's National Guard financial crimes unit opened an inquiry into suspected money laundering, fraud, and the alleged misuse of donation funds, organizers said. The arrested activists — Wael Naouar, Jawaher Channa, and Nabil Channoufi — are members of both the flotilla's international steering committee and its Tunisian organizing body.

Georgia Senate expands prosecutor oversight in bills Republicans tie to Fani Willis

2026-03-07

Georgia's Republican-controlled Senate passed legislation Friday expanding the grounds for disciplining or removing local prosecutors, as Republican leaders pointed to the dismissed criminal case against Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis as evidence the oversight is needed. The lead measure extends the authority of the Prosecuting Attorneys Qualifications Commission, a body the Legislature created in 2024 to oversee elected district attorneys and solicitors general. Its fate in the Republican-controlled House, which is considered less partisan than the Senate, remains uncertain.

Herrera secures uncontested GOP nod in TX-23 after Gonzales withdraws amid scandal

2026-03-07

Brendan Herrera, a self-described "Second Amendment Absolutist" who built a following of millions through YouTube gun videos, emerged Friday as the uncontested Republican nominee for Texas' 23rd congressional district after Rep. Tony Gonzales announced Thursday night he would not seek reelection. Gonzales, who had admitted to an affair with a former staff member who later died by suicide, dropped out after House Republican leadership urged him to end his campaign. He said he would serve out his current term, helping his party maintain its slim majority in the House.

Minneapolis businesses still reeling from immigration surge as Noem's firing brings little relief

2026-03-07

MINNEAPOLIS — The firing of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has done little to ease the economic damage to immigrant-owned and immigrant-serving small businesses in Minneapolis, where business owners, activists, and educators said Friday the losses from the nation's largest immigration enforcement surge continue to mount. Daniel Hernandez, who runs Colonial Market in south Minneapolis, said 10 of the 12 Latino small businesses renting space from him remain shuttered, and only one — an Ecuadorian ice cream shop — has been able to reopen since the operation began in December. "I don't know if my business will survive, being honest," Hernandez said. "The amount of damage is so big that I am afraid."

Trump calls Iran conflict 'easy' compared to fixing college sports pay

2026-03-07

President Donald Trump said Friday that questions about the ongoing war in Iran were "easy" compared to his efforts to regulate college sports and rein in athlete salaries — an extraordinary remark he appeared to soften only moments later. Trump spent more than an hour at a White House roundtable with college sports figures, pressing Congress to overhaul NCAA rules even as U.S. and Israeli forces continued military operations against Iran that began a week earlier.

Bangladeshi man faces federal charges in Alaska over sextortion of hundreds of teens

2026-03-07

The FBI flew a Bangladeshi man to Anchorage on Thursday to face federal charges that he used social media to coerce hundreds of teenage girls into sending him sexually explicit images, threatening to distribute the material to their families and friends if they refused or tried to stop contact. Zobaidul Amin, 28, pleaded not guilty before a federal magistrate, who ordered him held in custody while the case proceeds.

Portland judge bars tear gas from reaching apartment complex near ICE facility

2026-03-07

U.S. District Judge Amy Baggio on Friday restricted federal agents from deploying chemical munitions in quantities likely to reach Gray's Landing, an affordable housing complex adjacent to Portland's U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, after the complex's property manager and tenants sued the federal government over months of involuntary tear-gas exposure during protests at the building. The ruling is the second time a federal judge in Oregon has imposed limits on tear-gas use at the Portland ICE facility; a separate court had previously issued a temporary restraining order in a lawsuit brought by the ACLU of Oregon on behalf of protesters and freelance journalists.

Faith leaders sue, press for ICE detention access during Lent and Ramadan

2026-03-07

Faith leaders from Catholic, Muslim, and Sikh communities are suing the federal government and pressing immigration authorities for greater access to detained migrants during the overlapping holy seasons of Lent and Ramadan. The number of people held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has grown to as many as 75,000 from about 40,000 since President Donald Trump began his second term, spread across more than 225 sites nationwide, according to the Associated Press. A federal judge's order allowed clergy to hold an Ash Wednesday service at an Illinois facility, and a Muslim chaplain gained entry to a Texas detention center at the start of Ramadan — but clergy from multiple faiths say access remains inconsistent and, in some cases, has been entirely cut off.

Jackson family holds intimate final farewell at Rainbow PUSH headquarters in Chicago

2026-03-07

CHICAGO — The family and closest allies of the late Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. gathered Saturday at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition's South Side headquarters for an intimate final memorial, the capstone to a week of public and private services for the civil rights leader. A few hundred attendees — most of them family members, longtime allies and confidants — heard eulogies from Jackson's children, civil rights leaders and the presidents of two African nations who traveled to Chicago to pay their respects.

South African women turn to guns and martial arts amid femicide crisis

2026-03-07

Women across South Africa are enrolling in firearms training and martial arts classes, seeking protection in a country where gender-based violence rates are so severe that the government declared them a national disaster in November. At a shooting range in Bronkhorstspruit, near Pretoria, girls and women ranging from 13 to 65 practice firing 9 mm pistols under a female instructor. In Johannesburg, women attend jiujitsu classes to learn how to escape chokeholds and evade attacks.

Panama Ports Company seeks $2 billion in arbitration over canal port seizure

2026-03-07

Panama Ports Company, a subsidiary of Hong Kong's CK Hutchison Holdings, said Friday it is demanding $2 billion in damages from Panama through international arbitration, calling the government's seizure of two key Panama Canal ports "illegal." Panama's government seized control of the Balboa and Cristobal ports — one at each end of the waterway — after the country's Supreme Court declared the firm's operating concession unconstitutional.

Ex-rapper's party leads Nepal's first election since 2025 youth revolt

2026-03-07

KATHMANDU — Preliminary results released Saturday showed the Rastriya Swatantra Party, led by rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah, in front in Nepal's parliamentary election, the country's first vote since last year's youth-led uprising toppled the government. The party had won 60 of 165 directly elected seats and was leading in 61 more, according to Nepal's Election Commission. Shah, 35, who won the 2022 Kathmandu mayoral race and became a central figure in the 2025 revolt, defeated former Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli in a head-to-head contest in a southeastern district, winning almost four times as many votes as the former leader.

Cuba shuts Quito embassy as Ecuador expels diplomats after 48-hour deadline

2026-03-07

Cuba's diplomatic mission in Ecuador departed Friday after Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa's government declared Ambassador Basilio Antonio Gutiérrez and his staff "persona non grata" and gave them 48 hours to leave. Staff removed the Cuban flag from the embassy in northern Quito before departing, and an Associated Press reporter witnessed a staff member burning papers in an oven on the embassy roof in the hours before the deadline expired. Cuba's Foreign Ministry confirmed in a statement Friday that the Quito embassy had ceased all functions, expressing regret over what it called "the unilateral and unfriendly action" of the Ecuadorian government.

Carney urges removal of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from royal line of succession

2026-03-07

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called Friday for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to be removed from the British royal line of succession, saying the former prince's conduct was "deplorable" and that the same actions that cost him his royal titles make his continued place in the succession order untenable. Carney made his remarks to reporters in Tokyo.

House narrowly rejects Iran war powers resolution in test of Trump’s strategy

2026-03-06

The House narrowly rejected a resolution Thursday that would curb President Donald Trump’s war powers in the Iran conflict, a vote that underscored early congressional unease as the dispute widens. The measure was defeated 212-219, the second such vote in as many days after the Senate voted down a similar effort. Republicans backed Trump while Democrats mostly opposed the resolution.

Republicans mine Talarico's social media history after Texas Senate primary win

2026-03-06

James Talarico won the Texas Democratic primary for U.S. Senate on Tuesday, defeating Rep. Jasmine Crockett. Within hours, conservatives began uploading clips drawn from years of his social media posts, podcast interviews, and legislative floor speeches, targeting his commentary on race, gender, religion, and immigration ahead of a November general election in a state that has trended heavily Republican. Talarico, a former state legislator, built a national profile by posting heavily on social media and sitting for lengthy podcast interviews. That visibility gave opponents hours of material to mine.

ICE arrests Nashville Spanish-language reporter; attorney says no warrant shown

2026-03-06

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Estefany Rodriguez Florez, a reporter for Nashville Noticias, a Spanish-language news outlet in Tennessee, during a traffic stop Wednesday, according to court documents filed in federal court in Nashville. Her attorney said she was not shown any arrest warrant at the time of her detention. ICE has asked a federal judge to deny her attorney's request for her immediate release.

911 calls document deaths and neglect at ICE's largest detention camp

2026-03-06

Emergency calls to 911 from Camp East Montana in El Paso, Texas documented repeated suicide attempts, two detainee deaths, seizures, and untreated injuries at the nation's largest U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility at a rate of nearly one call per day for five months, according to records obtained by the Associated Press. The AP reviewed 130 calls placed between mid-August 2025 and Jan. 20, 2026, along with interviews with former detainees and court filings. The records described a facility housing an average of approximately 3,000 people per day in tent quarters where diseases spread and medical care was difficult to obtain. ICE data showed 80 percent of detainees at the camp had no criminal record.

CBP says new tariff refund system will be ready in 45 days, covering $166 billion

2026-03-06

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said Friday it is developing a streamlined process to refund approximately $166 billion in tariffs paid by more than 330,000 importers, with the new system expected to be operational within 45 days. Brandon Lord, executive director of CBP's trade policy and programs directorate, described the plan in a filing with the U.S. Court of International Trade, where Judge Richard Eaton must approve the process before any refunds proceed.

U.S. licenses Venezuelan gold trade, barring Russia, Iran, North Korea and Cuba

2026-03-06

The U.S. issued a license Friday authorizing dealings with Minerven, Venezuela's state-owned gold mining company, as Interior Secretary Doug Burgum concluded a visit to Caracas where he met with acting President Delcy Rodríguez and representatives of more than two dozen American mining and minerals companies, the Associated Press reported.

US imposes visa restrictions on Rwandan officials over M23 rebel support

2026-03-06

The U.S. State Department imposed visa restrictions Friday on several senior Rwandan officials for what it described as "fueling instability" in eastern Congo, intensifying pressure on Rwanda days after Washington sanctioned the Rwandan military and four of its top officers for backing the M23 rebel group. The unnamed officials are targeted for continued support of M23, which the U.S. says has persisted despite the Washington Accords — a peace agreement signed in December between Rwanda and Congo with U.S. mediation.

Pakistani man convicted in Iran-backed plot to kill Trump, Biden and Haley

2026-03-06

A Brooklyn jury convicted Pakistani business owner Asif Merchant on Friday on terrorism and murder-for-hire charges, following a weeklong trial in which Merchant himself testified that Iran's Revolutionary Guard directed him to arrange the killings of American political figures during the 2024 presidential campaign. Merchant, 47, faces up to life in prison.

Texas Supreme Court weighs SpaceX beach closures against public access rights

2026-03-06

The Texas Supreme Court heard oral arguments Thursday in a lawsuit challenging the state's authority to close Boca Chica Beach for SpaceX rocket launches, with justices pressing both sides on where constitutional limits on public beach access begin and end. Environmental and indigenous groups sued the Texas General Land Office and Cameron County over a 2013 state law permitting some counties to temporarily bar the public from Gulf Coast beaches during space flight activities. The case tests the scope of the Texas Constitution's Open Beaches Amendment, which grants the public an "unrestricted right" to use public beaches.

Georgia governor and Senate fields set as May 19 primary looms

2026-03-06

Qualifying closed Friday for Georgia's governor and U.S. Senate races, setting both fields for May 19 primary elections in a closely contested swing state. Three Republicans have entered to challenge Democratic incumbent Sen. Jon Ossoff, while eight Republicans and eight Democrats are competing to succeed term-limited Republican Gov. Brian Kemp.

Miami federal prosecutor builds working group to pursue cases against Cuban officials

2026-03-06

The U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Florida has assembled a multiagency working group to build criminal cases against Cuban government officials, people familiar with the effort told the Associated Press. The move comes as President Donald Trump has publicly floated a "friendly takeover" of Cuba following the U.S. capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Hegseth accuses press of politicizing US casualties; journalists cite long history of war coverage

2026-03-06

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth accused the American press of reporting U.S. military deaths in the Iran war to damage President Donald Trump's standing, remarks that drew swift rebuttals from journalists who said casualty coverage has been standard practice under administrations of both parties. Hegseth made the comments at a Pentagon briefing while addressing the deaths of six U.S. Army reservists killed in an Iranian attack on an operations center in Kuwait.

Americans stranded in Middle East find little U.S. help as war disrupts regional flights

2026-03-06

Thousands of Americans stranded across the Middle East after Israeli-U.S. attacks on Iran began Feb. 28 largely navigated their own way home — relying on WhatsApp group chats, private drivers and alternative border crossings — as U.S. government repatriation efforts lagged behind those of allied nations, multiple travelers said Friday. The first U.S.-chartered repatriation flight did not arrive until Thursday, days after Poland, Australia, France and other countries had already dispatched military or chartered aircraft for their citizens. As of Friday, about 27,000 Americans had returned to the United States since the conflict began, the State Department said, with the vast majority traveling without government help. More than 29,000 of roughly 51,000 flights scheduled in or out of Middle East airports had been canceled, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium, as airspace over Iran, Iraq, Bahrain, Kuwait and Syria remained closed.

Georgia GOP fears Texas-style runoff as Trump withholds Senate endorsement

2026-03-06

Georgia Republicans are growing anxious as three candidates compete for their party's Senate nomination with no sign that President Donald Trump will weigh in before the May 19 primary. The concern sharpened after Trump's refusal to endorse in the Texas Senate race produced a costly runoff between Sen. John Cornyn and state Attorney General Ken Paxton — a scenario Georgia Republican strategists fear will repeat itself and drain resources ahead of a general election against well-funded Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff.

Federal judge weighs New York Times bid to block Pentagon press credential policy

2026-03-06

A federal judge heard arguments Friday in Washington on whether to block a Pentagon policy that stripped press credentials from journalists who refused to sign new access agreements last October. U.S. District Judge Paul Friedman expressed skepticism of the government's defense at the first hearing in the New York Times' lawsuit against the Defense Department and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and said he would issue a ruling "as prompt a decision as I can."

Trump seeks role in choosing Iran's next supreme leader as war enters sixth day

2026-03-06

President Donald Trump said Thursday he wants to be involved in choosing Iran's next supreme leader, calling front-runner Mojtaba Khamenei "a lightweight" in an interview with Axios, as the United States and Israel entered a sixth day of strikes targeting Iran's military, nuclear program and leadership. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that American firepower over Tehran was "about to surge dramatically," and Iran's ambassador to Egypt said his country had not requested talks and that there would be "no trust in Trump."

Texas Rep. Gonzales drops reelection bid after admitting affair with aide who died by suicide

2026-03-06

Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas announced late Thursday he would not seek reelection, one day after publicly admitting an extramarital affair with a former congressional aide who later died by suicide. House Speaker Mike Johnson and the top four members of House GOP leadership had called on Gonzales to exit his race earlier that day. The House Ethics Committee has opened an investigation into his conduct.

US imposes travel bans, port actions in push to counter China's reach in Latin America

2026-03-06

The Trump administration imposed travel restrictions on three Chilean officials over a proposed fiber optic submarine cable project with Chinese involvement and warned Peru against ceding control of a Chinese-built deepwater port, escalating a broad push to reduce Beijing's economic and strategic footprint across Latin America. Panama, under pressure from President Trump, seized two canal-adjacent ports that had been operated by a Hong Kong company. The moves came days before Trump planned to host Latin American leaders at his golf complex near Miami for a summit the administration called the "Shield of the Americas."

Hawaii's red flag law used 13 times in six years; lawmakers push awareness funding

2026-03-06

Hawaii's gun violence protective order law has been used only 13 times since taking effect in 2020, even as more than 430 people were killed by firearms in the state between 2018 and 2024, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Honolulu Police Department has never filed a red flag petition, and a state House bill would direct roughly $500,000 over two years to public awareness campaigns and court-processing support for the orders.

Savannah Guthrie visits “Today” studios off camera after mother’s disappearance

2026-03-06

Savannah Guthrie made an off-camera appearance Thursday at NBC’s “Today” show studios to thank colleagues for their support since her mother, Nancy Guthrie, went missing from an Arizona home a month ago. NBC said Guthrie will return to the air at some point but is focused on supporting her family and helping bring Nancy home.

Trump presses Latin America to curb China ties from Chile to Panama

2026-03-06

President Donald Trump’s administration has taken steps across Latin America meant to reduce China’s influence, including travel bans on three Chilean officials and pressure on Peru about a China-built port, according to the Associated Press. The actions come as Trump hosts Latin American leaders at a weekend summit dubbed the “Shield of Americas” near Miami, framed by the White House as a response to what it says is China’s growing foothold in the region.

Conscious Life Expo draws 5,000 as alien channeling overtakes New Age spirituality

2026-03-06

More than 5,000 spiritual seekers gathered at the LAX Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles from Feb. 20–23 for the 24th annual Conscious Life Expo, where speakers described city-sized spacecraft, channeled alien wisdom and claimed to be incarnate galactic souls — a pronounced evolution from the event's founding focus on astrology, health and sustainability when it launched in 2002. Researchers who study the convergence of alternative spirituality and political conspiracy theories say the shift accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, when anti-institutional sentiment pushed portions of the New Age community toward more conspiratorial frameworks.

Trump fires Noem as DHS chief after $220M ad blitz draws GOP ire

2026-03-06

President Donald Trump fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Thursday after two days of congressional hearings in which Republican lawmakers criticized a $220 million DHS advertising campaign that featured Noem prominently, including in a video filmed near Mount Rushmore. An administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the deliberations, cited the campaign and "many unfortunate leadership failures" — including fallout from a federal immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota and mismanagement of her staff — as reasons for her dismissal after 13 months in office.

Two men attack San Francisco Mayor Lurie's bodyguards in Tenderloin

2026-03-06

Two men attacked a pair of police officers serving as bodyguards for San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie on Thursday evening in the city's Tenderloin neighborhood, officials said Friday. Lurie was unharmed. Both officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated by paramedics at the scene.

Politicians push to ban investor homebuying; economists say it won't solve the housing crunch

2026-03-06

President Donald Trump called on Congress at his State of the Union address to permanently bar large institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes, and the U.S. Senate this week advanced a housing bill with a provision that would cap such ownership at 350 homes per firm. Trump signed an executive order in January aimed at discouraging federal agencies from facilitating sales of homes to large institutional investors, and lawmakers from both parties — including Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren — have separately pushed similar limits. Housing economists said the measures carry political appeal but would not substantially reduce home prices. Large institutional investors own an estimated 1% to 3% of the nation's single-family housing stock, and the country's affordability problem stems primarily from a shortage of millions of housing units — a gap that restricting purchases would not close, experts said.

Hawaii audit calls local school food push a 'structural disaster'

2026-03-06

Hawaii's Department of Education has failed to track which food purchases came from local sources, lacked functioning software to monitor spending, and fell back on handwritten ledgers — even as state lawmakers pressed the agency to dramatically expand the share of locally grown food in school meals, a state audit released Thursday found. The Hawaii Office of the Auditor called the department's approach "haphazard" and strongly questioned whether the agency can meet a Legislature-mandated goal to spend 30% of its food budget on locally sourced food by 2030.

California community colleges spend millions on AI chatbots students call outdated

2026-03-06

California community college districts have spent millions of dollars on artificial intelligence chatbots intended to help students navigate admissions, financial aid and campus services, but testing and student accounts show the systems frequently provide inaccurate or outdated answers, according to a CalMatters investigation distributed by the Associated Press. The Los Angeles Community College District, the state's largest community college system, has approved contracts and amendments totaling about $3.8 million for chatbot services through 2029, according to district board documents.

Minnesota's lead-pipe program faces 2027 funding cliff without new state investment

2026-03-06

Minnesota cities and advocacy groups are pressing the state Legislature for $250 million to keep the state's lead service line replacement program running beyond 2027, when both state and federal dollars supporting the effort are projected to run out. The state has allocated $243 million for lead pipe removal since 2023 and drawn roughly $350 million from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, but neither funding stream extends past 2027 without fresh appropriations.

SK Battery America lays off 958 workers at Georgia plant amid EV slowdown

2026-03-06

SK Battery America Inc. laid off 958 workers Friday at its Commerce, Georgia battery manufacturing plant, cutting about 37% of its workforce as automakers scaled back electric vehicle commitments and federal policy shifted away from electrification incentives. The layoffs, documented in a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification filing, take effect immediately; affected employees will receive pay through May 6. About 1,600 workers will remain at the Commerce facility.

Inter-American court orders Peru to pay reparations for 1997 forced sterilization death

2026-03-06

The Inter-American Court of Human Rights on Thursday ordered Peru to pay approximately $340,000 in reparations to the family of Celia Ramos, a 34-year-old mother of three who died in 1997 after being coerced into a sterilization procedure at a state health center. The ruling, issued in Lima, is the first by Latin America's highest human rights tribunal to address Peru's forced sterilization program, which the court found had systematically targeted impoverished and Indigenous women under the government of the late Alberto Fujimori.

House narrowly rejects Iran war powers resolution in test of Trump strategy

2026-03-05

The House voted Thursday to reject a resolution aimed at curbing President Donald Trump’s war powers in the conflict with Iran, a measure described as a test of Trump’s strategy as the war widens and congressional support splits. The vote was 212-219, after the Senate defeated a similar measure earlier this week.

States sue over Trump’s new global tariffs after Supreme Court loss

2026-03-05

More than two dozen U.S. states and Democratic governors sued Thursday to block President Donald Trump’s planned global tariffs, arguing he exceeded his authority with new 15% import taxes. The lawsuit targets tariffs imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, days after Trump lost a Supreme Court fight over earlier tariff powers.

Trump fires DHS Secretary Noem, nominates Sen. Mullin as replacement

2026-03-05

President Donald Trump fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Thursday, announcing via social media that Oklahoma Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin would be nominated to lead the department. Noem, the former South Dakota governor who oversaw Trump's immigration enforcement agenda, became the first Cabinet secretary to leave during the president's second term. Her departure followed a two-day congressional hearing in which Republican and Democratic lawmakers subjected her to sustained criticism over her department's spending, operations, and handling of immigration enforcement.

Hegseth: U.S. can’t stop every Iranian air attack in new war update

2026-03-05

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the United States cannot stop every Iranian air attack, even as he asserted U.S. superiority would allow control of Iran’s airspace. At a Pentagon news conference, he and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine described U.S. and allied air defenses as prepared while the conflict that began Saturday has widened across the region.

Can Congress limit Trump’s Iran war powers? It would be a rare step

2026-03-05

Congress is expected to take up a measure to restrict President Donald Trump’s war powers in the U.S.-Israeli conflict against Iran after the Senate rejected a Democratic effort to limit him. The House vote Thursday would test whether lawmakers can reclaim some control in an era in which, for decades, presidents have relied on commander-in-chief authority and Congress often authorized or funded force after it began.

Son of Iran’s late supreme leader rises as possible successor during war

2026-03-05

Mojtaba Khamenei, a son of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has emerged as a possible candidate to succeed his father as the war between Iran and Israel continues, according to reports. His name has circulated publicly as hard-line clerics weigh successors in the 88-seat Assembly of Experts.

US and Venezuela agree to restore diplomatic relations after Maduro's ouster

2026-03-05

The United States and Venezuela agreed on Thursday to reestablish diplomatic relations, the State Department announced, marking a major shift in the historically adversarial relationship between the two countries. The announcement came at the close of a two-day visit to Caracas by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, whose trip centered on Venezuela's mining sector. The accord follows a U.S. military operation that removed then-President Nicolás Maduro from power in January.

Pentagon designates Anthropic a supply chain risk, threatening Claude's military use

2026-03-05

The Pentagon on Thursday officially designated AI company Anthropic and its Claude chatbot as a supply chain risk, effective immediately — a move that could force defense contractors to cut ties with one of the country's fastest-growing AI companies and sets up an unprecedented legal clash between a U.S. tech firm and the Defense Department. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei said the company will challenge the designation in court, calling it legally unsound.

DOJ releases previously withheld Epstein files with uncorroborated Trump accusation

2026-03-05

The Justice Department on Thursday released additional Jeffrey Epstein files that had been inadvertently withheld, including records of FBI interviews with a woman who made uncorroborated accusations against President Donald Trump. The department said the files were incorrectly coded as duplicative during an earlier review, resulting in their omission from a larger tranche of Epstein-related documents made public earlier.

911 calls and interviews raise concerns about ICE camp conditions in El Paso

2026-03-05

The Associated Press reported that 911 calls, interviews and court filings point to repeated medical and mental-health emergencies at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s largest detention camp, Camp East Montana, in El Paso, Texas. The reporting describes overcrowding, medical neglect, malnutrition, and distress, including repeated suicide attempts. The Department of Homeland Security rejected the claims, saying detainees receive food, water and medical care at a routinely cleaned facility.

Nepal officials begin counting votes after historic parliamentary election

2026-03-05

Election officials began counting votes Friday, a day after parliamentary elections in Nepal that were the first nationwide poll since a violent, youth-led uprising forced the former government from power in September. The Election Commission said it had started in 53 of the 165 constituencies by Friday morning, with work expected to continue to the remaining areas by the end of the day.

Nashville council votes to pass resolution opposing Musk’s Tesla tunnel plan

2026-03-05

Nashville’s Metro Council on Tuesday passed a resolution opposing Elon Musk’s The Boring Company plan for a Tesla-powered tunnel loop, with council members citing safety, transparency and what they said was limited local input. The measure, approved 20-15 with two abstentions, cannot force the company to stop or change its Music City Loop plans, which officials have described as aiming for early 2027 operations.

Senate blocks DHS funding bill again as shutdown enters fourth week

2026-03-05

The Senate on Thursday failed to advance legislation funding the Department of Homeland Security, with a procedural vote of 51-45 falling well short of the 60 votes needed to proceed, as Republicans invoked the war in Iran and the risk of retaliatory terrorist attacks and Democrats held firm on demands for changes to immigration enforcement operations. The DHS shutdown, which began Feb. 14, has left thousands of federal workers beginning to miss portions of their paychecks and prompted cancellations of cybersecurity assessments and first-responder training.

Mexico and US set March 16 start date for USMCA review talks

2026-03-05

Mexico and the United States will hold their first bilateral trade talks on March 16, the two governments said Thursday, ahead of a formal review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Mexico's Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard announced the date on X after arranging the session with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

Texas Primary Ballots Face Uncertainty After Court Intervention

2026-03-05

Ballots cast during extended polling hours in two Texas counties, Dallas and Williamson, face an uncertain future after intervention by the Texas Supreme Court. The court's decision puts a stay on a lower court's ruling to extend polling hours due to voter confusion.

Sen. Steve Daines drops 2026 Senate bid, sparking Trump‑backed handoff in Montana

2026-03-05

Republican U.S. Sen. Steve Daines of Montana announced his withdrawal from the 2026 Senate race minutes before the filing deadline on March 4, 2026. Daines said he had wrestled with the decision for months and will now spend more time with his seven grandchildren in Montana. President Donald Trump quickly endorsed U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme as Daines’s handpicked successor, while an independent campaign was launched by former University of Montana president Seth Bodnar.

Utah GOP Rep. Burgess Owens says he will not seek reelection

2026-03-05

U.S. Rep. Burgess Owens, a Utah Republican and former professional football player, said Wednesday he will not seek reelection after a redistricting shakeup left Utah’s four GOP House lawmakers to vie for three seats this fall. Owens, 74, said he will finish his current term and then step away from elected office as Utah’s new congressional map was adopted by a state judge last year.

Obama backs Virginia Democrats’ mid-decade redistricting plan for April vote

2026-03-05

Former President Barack Obama is backing a Virginia Democratic effort to redraw congressional district lines, urging voters to approve the plan in an April 21 referendum. The proposal, signed into law by Democratic Gov. Abigail Spanberger, would go into effect only if approved by voters and survives ongoing court challenges.

Lamont vetoes speedily passed earmarks, citing objections to process

2026-03-05

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont on Tuesday used his line-item veto power to cut grants and earmarks totaling $4 million from six sections of a fast-tracked emergency bill. In his veto message, Lamont said his objection was to “the process” used to set aside funds for specific entities outside a competitive or formula-driven framework.

Texas and North Carolina primaries usher in runoffs and high spending

2026-03-05

Several key races in Texas and North Carolina moved toward runoffs after Tuesday’s first primaries of 2026, including the U.S. Senate contests in Texas and multiple House matchups. The Texas Republican Senate nomination went to a runoff after neither Sen. John Cornyn nor state Attorney General Ken Paxton cleared the 50% threshold.

Kosovo president urges quick snap vote after dissolving parliament

2026-03-05

Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani dissolved Parliament on Friday after lawmakers failed to elect her successor by a midnight Thursday deadline due to a lack of a quorum. In an interview with The Associated Press, Osmani urged a snap election held as soon as possible to avoid another prolonged political crisis.

Democrat James Talarico wins Texas Senate primary; faces Cornyn or Paxton

2026-03-05

James Talarico, a 36-year-old Austin state lawmaker, won the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat in Texas, defeating Rep. Jasmine Crockett. In his victory remarks Wednesday night, Talarico positioned himself as a unifying alternative to Trump-era politics, including through Christian language and promises of a “politics of love.” He is now set to face either Republican Sen. John Cornyn or Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who advanced to a GOP runoff.

Spain denies agreeing to help U.S. operations over Iran war

2026-03-05

Spain’s government denied on Wednesday that it has agreed to cooperate with U.S. military operations in the Middle East using Spanish bases, contradicting a White House claim during Donald Trump’s meetings with European leaders. The dispute intensified after Trump said he wanted to “cut off all trade with Spain” over NATO spending and the bases question, prompting backlash from Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sánchez.

Iran war shows cracks in Trump’s conservative media support

2026-03-05

President Donald Trump faces sharp criticism of his early Iran-war decision from some conservative media figures, including Tucker Carlson and Megyn Kelly, according to comments they made this week. The discontent has highlighted tensions within the MAGA-aligned media ecosystem and prompted White House pushback, as administration officials worked to defend the operation. The criticism has also spilled into public exchanges among conservatives, with figures trading barbs over what they say about U.S. casualties and Israel’s role.

Federal judge blocks DeSantis executive order labeling Muslim groups terrorist

2026-03-05

A federal judge on Wednesday temporarily blocked enforcement of a Florida executive order issued last year by Gov. Ron DeSantis that designated two Muslim groups as foreign terrorist organizations. The ruling halted the order’s application while a lawsuit brought by civil rights groups moves forward.

Lukashenko pardons 18 prisoners as Belarus seeks ties with the U.S.

2026-03-05

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko pardoned 18 prisoners in a decree announced Thursday, including 15 people convicted on extremism charges. The releases are the latest in a series that has accompanied steps by the Trump administration, including lifting sanctions on Belarus’ potash and airline sectors, according to officials.

Brazil ratifies EU-Mercosur trade deal, steps toward implementation

2026-03-05

Brazil’s Senate unanimously ratified on Wednesday the free-trade agreement between Mercosur and the European Union, after the lower house approved it earlier, bringing the pact closer to implementation. The deal, negotiated for more than 25 years, involves an integrated market of more than 700 million people, and Argentina and Uruguay already have ratified it.

For US Muslims, Ramadan unfolds amid immigration crackdown and Iran war

2026-03-05

Muslims across the United States are entering Ramadan with heightened worries about immigration enforcement, rising anti-Muslim rhetoric during election season, and the Iran war affecting families with loved ones in the Middle East, Associated Press reported. In cities including Paterson, New Jersey, and Minneapolis, community leaders said fear is limiting gatherings that are central to the holiday.

Hungary’s foreign minister accuses Ukraine of meddling in upcoming vote

2026-03-05

Budapest said on Friday that Ukraine is seeking to influence Hungary’s April 12 election, a claim made by Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó at a pro-government protest outside Ukraine’s embassy. Kyiv and Hungary’s Ukraine-related dispute over Russian oil shipments have fueled rising tensions between the neighbors ahead of the vote.

Illinois sees candidate frenzy in Democratic March congressional primary

2026-03-05

CHICAGO — Illinois’ Democratic congressional primaries are headed into the March 17 ballot with unusually crowded fields as incumbents retire, leaving open seats across the state. Political groups and debate organizers are struggling to manage the volume, and voters say they are finding it difficult to keep track of who is running and what each candidate stands for.

Kristi Noem defends DHS immigration actions and spending in Congress

2026-03-05

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement and how the department spends billions of dollars during two days of testimony before congressional committees that followed the Minneapolis deaths of two protesters. Lawmakers pressed her on whether officers used excessive force and on questions ranging from a departmental spending campaign to an inspector general letter alleging obstruction.

Son of Iran’s late leader rises as possible successor during war

2026-03-05

Mojtaba Khamenei, a son of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been mentioned by some in Iran as a possible candidate to replace him as the war with Israel and the United States rages. The Associated Press reported that Mojtaba Khamenei has not been seen publicly since the Israeli airstrike that killed Ali Khamenei and his wife, Zahra Haddad Adel, on Saturday, and that state-run Iranian media have not reported on his whereabouts.

States pursue an end to twice-a-year clock changes

2026-03-05

The U.S. will move clocks forward at 2 a.m. Sunday for daylight saving time in most states, creating a 23-hour day that supporters and critics say disrupts schedules and sleep. A debate over whether to make daylight saving time permanent or keep standard time year round is playing out in state legislatures and in Congress, where federal change requires action.

Anti-war protester arrested at Senate hearing after scuffle injures three Capitol Police

2026-03-05

A North Carolina man was arrested Wednesday at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on Capitol Hill after he stood up and shouted anti-war slogans, then violently resisted officers who tried to remove him from the room, Capitol Police said. Brian C. McGinnis faces three counts of assaulting a police officer, three counts of resisting arrest, and one count of unlawful demonstration. Three Capitol Police officers and McGinnis were all treated for injuries following the confrontation.

Trump nominates Sen. Markwayne Mullin to lead DHS after firing Kristi Noem

2026-03-05

President Donald Trump fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Thursday and announced plans to nominate Sen. Markwayne Mullin, Republican of Oklahoma, as her replacement, Trump said March 5, 2026. Noem had faced mounting criticism over her leadership of the department. Trump posted on Truth Social that "Markwayne will make a spectacular Secretary of Homeland Security."

USPS will run out of cash by February 2027, postmaster general warns

2026-03-05

The U.S. Postal Service will exhaust its cash reserves by February 2027 unless Congress lifts a $15 billion borrowing cap that has been in place since 1990, Postmaster General David Steiner warned in an interview with the Associated Press on Wednesday. Without relief, Steiner said, the agency may be unable to pay employees or vendors — a failure he said would have potentially dire consequences for mail delivery to every American address. Steiner is scheduled to testify before Congress later this month.

Spain's Sánchez defies Trump on Iran, refuses military base access

2026-03-05

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez this week refused to allow the United States military to use Spanish bases for operations against Iran, prompting President Donald Trump to threaten a total trade cutoff and opening a public rift between Madrid and Washington.

Cornyn releases attack video on Paxton as Trump withholds Texas runoff endorsement

2026-03-05

Sen. John Cornyn's campaign released a six-minute attack video Thursday targeting Attorney General Ken Paxton, opening a second round of campaigning in their Republican Senate runoff contest even as President Donald Trump has yet to announce whom he will back in the May 26 race. The video revisits Paxton's impeachment trial on corruption charges, which ended in an acquittal but exposed an extramarital affair, and a state securities fraud indictment that Paxton resolved through a plea deal without admitting guilt. Cornyn's team said it is spending tens of thousands of dollars to keep the ad in front of voters, a modest initial outlay in a race that had already exceeded $110 million in spending before Tuesday's primary.

Iowa governor backs Iran war as four state military members die since December

2026-03-05

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds on Thursday expressed support for the U.S. war with Iran even as she mourned the deaths of four Iowa residents in military service since December, including two soldiers killed last weekend in a retaliatory drone strike in Kuwait. "I believe in the mission right now," Reynolds, a Republican, said at a Des Moines news conference, her voice breaking at times. Reynolds said she had spoken with the father of one of the Iowa soldiers killed in Kuwait and the wife of the other.

Trump administration offers shifting rationales for Iran strikes as war expands

2026-03-05

President Donald Trump and his top officials have offered multiple, sometimes contradictory explanations for Operation Epic Fury, the joint U.S.-Israel military campaign that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and some 40 senior Iranian officials. Rationales offered in public statements range from neutralizing Iran's nuclear program to preempting its ballistic missiles to preventing a unilateral Israeli strike, with officials at times contradicting one another and the president contradicting himself.

Kim Jong Un vows nuclear-armed navy after inspecting new destroyer

2026-03-05

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un spent two consecutive days inspecting his country's newest destroyer and observed cruise missiles test-fired from the warship, vowing to accelerate the nuclear arming of his navy, state media said Thursday. Kim's visits to the western shipyard at Nampo on Tuesday and Wednesday also included an inspection of a third destroyer under construction of the same class, the official Korean Central News Agency reported.

Governments rush to return citizens from the Middle East

2026-03-05

Governments stepped up repatriation flights and other evacuation routes as an Iran war escalated and airspace restrictions disrupted travel, leaving hundreds of thousands stranded across the Middle East, according to the Associated Press. France said a flight carrying its citizens arrived in Paris early Wednesday, while countries including the United States, Britain, Ireland, Norway, Italy and Mexico reported additional departures and plans to bring people home.

States step up school civil rights enforcement as federal office stalls under Trump

2026-03-05

State legislators and civil rights advocates in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Massachusetts are moving to assume school discrimination enforcement duties that the Trump administration has largely abandoned, the Associated Press reported Thursday. Mass layoffs at the U.S. Education Department's Office for Civil Rights — which closed entire offices in Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, and elsewhere — have left thousands of complaints unresolved, with families saying they have nowhere else to turn.

Federal panel hears public opposition to Trump's White House ballroom plan

2026-03-05

WASHINGTON — Members of the public voiced opposition to President Donald Trump's proposed 90,000-square-foot White House addition Thursday, calling it "ugly," "grossly out of scale," and an "invitation for corruption" at a federal review hearing that drew more than two hours of testimony. Of 31 people who testified before the National Capital Planning Commission, virtually all urged the panel to reject or substantially revise the project, which carries an estimated $400 million price tag that Trump plans to cover with donations from wealthy individuals and corporations with active business dealings with the federal government. Despite the public pushback, the commission's approval process showed no sign of slowing. A final vote is scheduled for April 2.

Architect calls White House ballroom project oversized, warns of permanent historic harm

2026-03-05

An architect on the board of the National Trust for Historic Preservation said Wednesday that President Donald Trump's proposed White House ballroom is significantly oversized and should be scaled back, warning the project could permanently alter the nation's most recognizable historic landmark. David Scott Parker, a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects with more than 35 years of experience, shared his assessment with the Associated Press as the National Capital Planning Commission prepared to meet Thursday to vote on whether to approve the 90,000-square-foot project.

California Democrats’ plea to drop governor bids fizzles, risking GOP surge

2026-03-05

LOS ANGELES (AP) — California’s top Democratic official, party chair Rusty Hicks, urged some Democratic candidates to exit the crowded race for governor, arguing that too many contenders could split the party’s votes in the June 2 top-two primary and make room for Republicans to win statewide in November. But most candidates did not step aside, leaving the contest’s field largely unchanged as Hicks faces criticism from within the party.

Colorado governor signals openness to clemency for convicted election clerk

2026-03-05

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signaled Tuesday he is open to granting clemency to former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, who is serving a nine-year prison sentence for a scheme that copied election computer system data in search of evidence of fraud in the 2020 presidential election. The governor's remarks drew immediate backlash from the state's attorney general, secretary of state, and county election officials, who warned the move could signal tolerance for election interference ahead of the 2026 midterms.

Arkansas GOP sheriff nominee Aaron Spencer faces murder case and November vote

2026-03-05

Aaron Spencer, an Arkansas man accused of killing a man prosecutors say abused his then-13-year-old daughter, won the Republican nomination for Lonoke County sheriff in Tuesday’s primary, according to unofficial results. Spencer is out on bond and has pleaded not guilty as he awaits trial, which has been delayed after a judge was removed from the case.

North Dakota Highway Patrol adds bloodhound Beau to search-and-rescue work

2026-03-05

Beau, a 12-week-old bloodhound puppy, has joined the North Dakota Highway Patrol as a newest recruit for difficult searches across the upper Midwest, the agency said. The patrol’s troopers use bloodhounds to trail missing people, including those with dementia, and to help in locating criminal suspects, including cases that can span multiple states.

Florida Bar says it is not investigating former Trump aide Lindsey Halligan

2026-03-05

Florida Bar officials have walked back an earlier statement indicating they were investigating former Trump aide Lindsey Halligan, saying on Friday that there is no pending Florida Bar investigation into her. A bar representative previously told a watchdog group and The Associated Press that there was an “investigation pending” or an “open file” tied to the matter.

Japan and Canada sign deal to expand defense, energy cooperation

2026-03-05

Japan and Canada signed a strategic agreement in Tokyo to strengthen cooperation on defense, economic security and energy, as fighting involving Iran raises concerns about oil supplies. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Canadian counterpart Mark Carney agreed to diversify energy sources and expand trade and investment, according to Japan’s foreign ministry. Carney, in his first visit to Japan since taking office last year, said “geopolitical uncertainty” has become a key driver of their talks.

Indonesia will ban social media for children under 16

2026-03-05

Indonesia will ban children under 16 from having social media accounts, Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid said March 6. Hafid said the rule—applied to high-risk digital platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and Roblox—was set out in a government regulation she has signed and will be phased in beginning March 28.

Jimmy Lai will not appeal national security conviction, lawyers say

2026-03-05

Hong Kong pro-democracy ex-publisher Jimmy Lai will not appeal his national security conviction or his 20-year prison sentence, his legal team said on March 6. His lawyers said they have “clear and definitive instructions not to lodge an appeal against conviction or sentence.” The decision follows his December conviction for conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and for publishing seditious articles.

San Jose to clear its largest homeless camp again starting April 15

2026-03-05

San Jose plans to clear about 100 people living in a creek-side homeless camp known as “the Jungle” near Story Road across from Happy Hollow Park & Zoo, beginning April 15. City officials said outreach ahead of the sweep will prioritize people for housing at the Cerone tiny home site in North San Jose, which opened in early February.

Trump Medicaid work mandate could disrupt care for homeless Californians

2026-03-05

A Medicaid law tied to President Donald Trump’s proposal would require California to verify more eligibility details more often and require many able-bodied adults to meet work requirements, potentially pushing some homeless people off Medi-Cal. Health workers in Los Angeles say the changes could make it harder for unhoused patients to maintain coverage and access primary care and medications.

Out-of-state police access Silicon Valley license plate readers

2026-03-05

Out-of-state law enforcement agencies accessed data from Silicon Valley automated license plate reader cameras without local permission, according to records reviewed by San José Spotlight and distributed by The Associated Press. Santa Clara County supervisors voted Feb. 24 to end contracts with Flock Safety, joining Los Altos Hills and Mountain View, after concerns that the company enabled unlawful data-sharing between California agencies and out-of-state police.

Florida university investigates racist slurs in GOP group chat

2026-03-05

FIU launched an investigation into racist, antisemitic and misogynistic language in a group chat connected to a Miami-Dade Republican Party official. The university said campus police are investigating the students involved in coordination with local, state and federal law enforcement.

EU suspends visa-free travel for Georgian diplomats and officials

2026-03-05

The European Union suspended visa-free travel for diplomats and officials from Georgia for at least a year, the bloc said Friday, citing democratic backsliding and a crackdown on anti-government protesters. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s executive branch said the suspension will run until March 6, 2027, with a possible two-year extension. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said there are “consequences” when a government attacks its own people, silences journalists and curtails freedom.

Argentine officer Nahuel Gallo urges release of 24 foreign prisoners in Venezuela

2026-03-05

Argentine police officer Nahuel Gallo, freed from a Venezuelan prison after 448 days in detention, urged the international community on March 4 to seek the release of 24 foreign nationals still held at Rodeo I. Gallo said his “mind is still in prison” and called for patience as he prepares to testify in an Argentina investigation into alleged crimes against humanity attributed to the government of former President Nicolás Maduro.

'Christ is king' becomes a charged phrase in US political debates

2026-03-05

In the United States, the Christian phrase "Christ is king" has increasingly surfaced in political debates involving far-right figures and disputes over Israel and Zionism, drawing criticism that it has been used in ways hostile to Jews. An Associated Press report highlighted the controversy during a Feb. 9 hearing of a Religious Liberty Commission created by President Donald Trump, where witnesses and commissioners debated whether the slogan’s pairing with slurs makes it antisemitic.

Ecuador expels Cuba ambassador, calls him ‘persona non grata’

2026-03-05

Ecuador declared Cuba’s ambassador to the country and his staff “persona non grata” and ordered them to leave within 48 hours, escalating a diplomatic dispute between Quito and Havana. Ecuador’s foreign ministry said the action was taken under international diplomatic law but gave no reason for the expulsions.

Hegseth moves to end “wokeness” in military education, severing Ivy ties

2026-03-05

Pentagon plans to cut a prestigious military fellowship’s access to selected colleges, while officials say changes to other education benefits remain broader. The shake-up arrives as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth pushes a campaign aimed at removing “wokeness” from the military and reshaping how U.S. service members pursue advanced study.

Major blackout hits Cuba’s western region as oil crisis continues

2026-03-05

A blackout left millions of people without power in Havana and western Cuba on Wednesday, in the latest outage affecting an island struggling with dwindling oil reserves and an aging power grid. Cuban officials said the shutdown of the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant east of Havana triggered the outage and that restoring parts of the National Electric System could take at least 72 hours.

MrBeast fires editor after Kalshi insider-trading accusation

2026-03-05

NEW YORK (AP) — Beast Industries, the company behind YouTube star MrBeast, fired a video editor after prediction-market operator Kalshi accused the worker of insider trading. Kalshi said the editor, who traded about $4,000 on streaming markets tied to MrBeast videos, likely had access to material non-public information, and Kalshi suspended him for two years, fined him $20,000 and alerted federal regulators.

New Mexico trial weighs Meta’s internal research on kids’ safety

2026-03-05

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg faced questions in New Mexico’s civil trial about what the company learned from internal research and how it responded to concerns about young users’ experiences on Facebook and Instagram. Prosecutors played deposition material recorded last year as they alleged Meta violated state consumer protection laws by failing to disclose risks related to addiction and child sexual exploitation.

Sheinbaum visits Jalisco to address World Cup security worries

2026-03-05

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum visited the western state of Jalisco on Friday, a senior security briefing held after a wave of violence that authorities linked to the killing of a top cartel boss. The visit came with fewer than 100 days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Guadalajara among the host cities.

Democrats debate rebuilding Jesse Jackson's Rainbow Coalition ahead of 2028

2026-03-05

CHICAGO — Democratic Party figures gathered in Chicago this week for services honoring the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, who died in February, as the party confronted the question that defined his political career: how to assemble a broad, diverse coalition capable of winning national power. The services drew party veterans, activists, and likely 2028 presidential contenders, many of whom trace their political beginnings to Jackson's mentorship.

Vermont bill would bar landfill leachate from Lake Memphremagog over PFAS fears

2026-03-05

Vermont lawmakers are considering legislation that would ban disposal of leachate from the state's only operating landfill into the watershed feeding Lake Memphremagog, an international waterbody shared with Quebec, amid concerns about contamination from PFAS — synthetic compounds known as "forever chemicals." The bill, H.652, was heard by the House Environment Committee in February and is backed by residents of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, a rural region that hosts the Coventry landfill but generates less than one-tenth of the state's total waste.

CBP investigates Bovino for alleged anti-Jewish remarks about Minnesota prosecutor

2026-03-05

U.S. Customs and Border Protection opened an internal investigation Wednesday into Gregory Bovino, once the public face of the Trump administration's city-by-city immigration sweeps, after reports that he made disparaging comments about the Jewish faith of Daniel N. Rosen, the U.S. attorney for the District of Minnesota. The inquiry was opened following a congressional letter about anonymous allegations, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said. DHS said the probe "does NOT indicate any confirmation of wrongdoing."

Hawaiʻi school panic button program stalls as contractor faces federal bribery probe

2026-03-05

Two years after Hawaiʻi launched a $7 million effort to equip public school campuses with panic buttons, only one school in the state has the technology installed — and it is not using it. The company contracted to provide monitoring services for the program, SaferWatch, is under federal scrutiny after its former chief executive was charged with bribing a New York Police Department officer to pressure local officials to spend millions of dollars on school panic button systems.

Idaho bill would broaden prison sex abuse law after investigation found accountability gap

2026-03-05

The Idaho House Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee voted unanimously on Feb. 27 to advance legislation that would expand the state's "sexual contact with a prisoner" law, sending House Bill 696 to the full House for a vote expected this week. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Marco Erickson, R-Idaho Falls, would broaden the law's definition of prohibited contact beyond genital touching to cover any willful physical contact made with sexual intent — a change lawmakers said is needed to hold correctional officers accountable for a range of abusive conduct the current statute does not reach.

California bill would add lump-sum savings plan for cops, firefighters on top of pensions

2026-03-05

Unions representing California Highway Patrol officers and Cal Fire firefighters are backing legislation that would allow late-career public safety workers to accumulate a lump-sum payout on top of their existing pensions — a benefit proponents call a retention tool but critics warn could compound the costs of pension systems that already consume a substantial share of state payroll spending. The bill, carried by Assemblymember Mike Gipson, a Democrat from Gardena, would create a deferred retirement option plan, known as a DROP, administered by the California Public Employees' Retirement System. As of early March 2026, the measure was advancing through the California Assembly with bipartisan support; Assemblymember Carl DeMaio, a San Diego Republican, was the only lawmaker to vote against it.

California watchdog urges data center power rules to shield ratepayers

2026-03-05

California's independent bipartisan oversight commission released a report Tuesday urging state policymakers to act quickly on data center regulation before soaring electricity demand from artificial intelligence expansion raises utility bills for ordinary households. The Little Hoover Commission outlined more than a dozen recommendations for managing the fast-growing industry's impact on the power grid, electricity prices and the state's climate goals.

Venezuela pledges security for foreign mining investors, Burgum says

2026-03-05

U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said Thursday that Venezuela's government has pledged to protect foreign companies seeking to invest in the country's mineral sector, concluding a two-day visit to Caracas that advanced the Trump administration's effort to build alternative critical-mineral supplies as competition with China over key raw materials continues. Burgum said acting President Delcy Rodríguez acknowledged concerns about security risks in areas long controlled by guerrillas, criminal gangs and military officials who profit from illegal extraction.

Wisconsin man sentenced to 7 years in prison for arson at congressman's office over TikTok ban

2026-03-05

A 20-year-old Wisconsin man was sentenced Thursday to seven years in prison for setting fire to Republican U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman's district office in Fond du Lac, after telling police he acted because the federal government was shutting down TikTok in violation of his constitutional rights, according to court records. Fond du Lac County Circuit Judge Tricia Walker also sentenced Caiden Stachowicz, of Menasha, to seven years of extended supervision.

FBI investigates suspicious cyber activity on system holding surveillance data

2026-03-05

The FBI said it is investigating suspicious cyber activity on an internal, unclassified system that stores sensitive law enforcement information, including returns from court-authorized surveillance operations and personally identifiable information on subjects of FBI investigations, according to a congressional notification obtained by the Associated Press.

Burgum meets Venezuela's Rodríguez in Caracas to discuss mining investment

2026-03-05

U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum met Wednesday with Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodríguez in Caracas, leading representatives of more than two dozen American mining and energy companies in talks aimed at opening Venezuela's substantial mineral reserves to U.S. investment. Rodríguez announced she would introduce legislation to overhaul the country's mining law to attract foreign capital, calling the expected change "a win for the social well-being of our people."

Sober workers navigate corporate drinking culture as recovery advocates push workplace change

2026-03-05

Workers in recovery from alcohol addiction face persistent pressure in American workplaces where after-work happy hours, corporate parties, and client meetings at bars remain expected in many industries, treatment professionals and workers who have abstained from alcohol said. The anxiety employees in recovery feel about career advancement and social judgment at work is natural but manageable, those professionals said.

House narrowly rejects Iran war powers resolution in test of Trump strategy

2026-03-04

The House on Thursday narrowly rejected a resolution aimed at curbing President Donald Trump’s war powers in the Iran conflict, an early sign of unease in Congress as the fighting reshapes U.S. priorities. The vote was 212-219, after the Senate defeated a similar measure, and the measure would have halted the president’s ability to conduct the war unless Congress approved it.

Federal judge rules importers entitled to refunds for struck-down Trump tariffs

2026-03-04

A federal judge ruled Wednesday that companies that paid tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court last month are entitled to refunds, handing the Trump administration a legal defeat in the continuing fallout from a ruling that invalidated the president's sweeping import taxes. Judge Richard Eaton of the U.S. Court of International Trade wrote that "all importers of record" were "entitled to benefit" from the Supreme Court's Feb. 20 decision, which struck down double-digit import taxes President Donald Trump imposed under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The court found the president lacked authority to unilaterally set and change tariffs, ruling that taxation power belongs to Congress.

Can Congress limit Trump in Iran? It would be a rare step

2026-03-04

The fight over whether Congress can curb President Donald Trump’s military authority in the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran is headed to the House, after the Senate rejected a Democratic effort to place limits on him. The debate revives a recurring constitutional struggle over war powers as lawmakers spar with Trump’s claims of broad discretion as commander in chief.

Voters turned away in Dallas and Williamson after Texas GOP primary change

2026-03-04

Texas voters were turned away in Dallas and Williamson counties on Tuesday after local Republicans changed primary voting rules, prompting court fights and threats of more legal action. In Dallas, a judge ordered polling places to stay open past the 7 p.m. deadline, then the Texas Supreme Court stayed both decisions and directed that ballots tied to voters who missed the deadline be separated. The dispute raised concerns in a tight Democratic U.S. Senate race about whether some voters could be disenfranchised.

Supreme Court blocks California schools’ transgender notification policy

2026-03-04

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday temporarily cleared the way for California schools to notify parents if their children identify as transgender, without getting the student’s approval, in a dispute that has been tied to free-exercise claims. The court blocked for now a state law that would allow automatic parental notification requirements when students change their pronouns or gender expression at school.

Trump promises Texas Senate runoff endorsement as Cornyn-Paxton contest intensifies

2026-03-04

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he would soon endorse one of the two Republicans competing in the Texas Senate runoff, warning that the contest between Sen. John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton "cannot, for the good of the Party, and our Country, itself, be allowed to go on any longer." Trump wrote on social media that he would demand the candidate he does not back to immediately exit the race. Paxton said he would not drop out regardless of the president's choice.

Starmer-Trump relationship tested amid Iran strike disagreement

2026-03-04

LONDON (AP) — Keir Starmer and President Donald Trump are at odds over whether Britain should join U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, stressing a relationship Starmer had worked to strengthen. Trump criticized Starmer’s reluctance to let U.S. warplanes use British bases, while Starmer said the U.K. will not join “offensive action” and has offered only defensive measures as the attacks began Saturday. The disagreement is reverberating across Europe, where leaders have taken different positions on the war.

Judge blocks Trump administration’s bid to halt Manhattan congestion toll

2026-03-04

A federal judge blocked President Donald Trump’s administration from reversing New York’s congestion toll for most vehicles entering Manhattan south of Central Park. U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman ruled the U.S. Department of Transportation lacked authority to unilaterally rescind federal approval of the $9 toll that began Jan. 5, 2025, according to court documents and statements. Trump’s Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy had moved to end the program, calling it harmful to working-class residents and small businesses.

Trump formally nominates Warsh as Fed chair; GOP senator vows to block confirmation

2026-03-04

The Trump administration formally forwarded Kevin Warsh's nomination to be Federal Reserve chair to the Senate on Wednesday, setting up a confirmation fight that could stall before the full chamber ever votes. Warsh, a former Fed governor, must first clear the Senate Banking Committee — where at least one Republican member has said he will vote to block the nomination.

Montana Republican Sen. Steve Daines drops Senate bid, opens path for Trump‑backed successor

2026-03-04

Republican U.S. Sen. Steve Daines of Montana announced on March 4 that he is retiring from the Senate, withdrawing his bid for a third term just minutes before the filing deadline. Daines said he had wrestled with the decision for months and looked forward to spending more time with his seven grandchildren and in Montana. President Donald Trump quickly endorsed Montana U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme, who entered the race seconds after Daines’s withdrawal, describing the move as Daines “passing the torch.”

GOP Rep. Tony Gonzales heads to Texas primary runoff after affair allegations

2026-03-04

Republican U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas will face a primary runoff after Tuesday’s vote forced him into a matchup with Brandon Herrera over allegations Gonzales had an affair with a former aide, according to the Associated Press. Gonzales has said he will not step down, and he has denied wrongdoing, while other House Republicans called on him to resign.

Status of late primary ballots in two Texas counties remains uncertain

2026-03-04

The Texas Supreme Court stayed a ruling that would have counted late ballots in Dallas and Williamson counties, leaving county election officials uncertain whether to include them in vote totals. As of Wednesday afternoon, the AP reported, officials were still awaiting direction after the high court ordered that ballots cast after a 7 p.m. closing time be separated.

Trump pushes back on criticism of Iran war battle plan and endgame

2026-03-04

President Donald Trump pushed back on Monday against mounting criticism that he has not explained why the United States started a war with Iran now and what the administration expects as an endgame. The pushback comes as the conflict spreads, energy prices surge and the death toll in the Middle East rises, with Trump’s team suggesting the fighting may be only in its opening stages.

Texas and North Carolina primaries offer early clues for 2026 Senate race

2026-03-04

The 2026 midterm campaign kicked off Tuesday with high-profile state primaries in Texas and contests in Arkansas and North Carolina, where the outcome could shape control of the Senate in November. In Texas, state Rep. James Talarico defeated U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett for the Democratic nomination for the Senate seat held by Republican John Cornyn, while Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton advanced to a May runoff for the GOP nomination.

Ethics panel opens investigation of Rep. Nancy Mace over housing reimbursements

2026-03-04

The House Ethics Committee has opened an investigation into allegations that Rep. Nancy Mace overcharged a congressional program meant to help lawmakers defray housing costs in Washington, according to a report released Monday. Mace, a South Carolina Republican in her third House term, denied the allegations and said the process is “partisan,” AP reported.

Hawaii lawmakers seek tighter enforcement on “lightly infested” imports

2026-03-04

Lawmakers in Hawaiʻi are pressing the state Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity to stop allowing some pest-infested goods into the islands after testimony suggested inspectors have been exercising discretion to let “lightly infested” shipments pass. The dispute centers on Senate Bill 2760, which would expand the department’s authority to inspect additional non-agricultural items and allow fines for violations.

Lawmakers press for answers on Iran war plan, exit and costs

2026-03-04

Tensions flared at the U.S. Capitol Tuesday as lawmakers questioned the Trump administration’s rationale for launching a widening campaign against Iran and pressed for details on strategy, an exit plan and the costs to Americans in lives and dollars. During closed-door briefings, Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized a decision to avoid being hit first, while other lawmakers warned about “mission creep,” possible boots on the ground, and what they said was a lack of a clear congressional rationale for the fight.

Trump’s war communications draw criticism over limited public messaging

2026-03-04

President Donald Trump’s administration faced criticism for delaying more than 48 hours before making live, public remarks to explain why it decided to go to war with Iran, according to the Associated Press. In the first days of the conflict, Trump delivered pretaped statements released on Truth Social and spoke with reporters by phone, while the Pentagon briefing he oversaw drew questions from some outlets and not others.

Misrepresented images spread as Iran war continues, AP fact checks show

2026-03-04

Misrepresented photos and videos about the Iran war have circulated widely online as attacks continue, the Associated Press reported in a fact-check roundup published March 2. The AP said several posts falsely tied older or unrelated footage to current strikes and also flagged at least one image as AI-generated.

Judge suspends 7-day notice rule for lawmakers to visit ICE facilities

2026-03-04

A federal judge temporarily suspended a Trump administration policy requiring members of Congress to give seven days’ notice before visiting immigration detention facilities. U.S. District Judge Jia Cobb said Monday that Democratic lawmakers are likely to show the requirement is illegal and exceeds statutory authority.

Anthropic’s Pentagon standoff boosts reputation but raises AI-war readiness questions

2026-03-04

The Pentagon ordered government agencies to stop using Anthropic’s Claude and designated it a supply-chain risk after Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei refused to loosen the company’s ethical safeguards, an Associated Press report said. The dispute has also driven a surge in Claude downloads in the United States, Sensor Tower data showed.

Americans in limbo as US draws down diplomatic posts amid Iran strikes

2026-03-04

The U.S. State Department is closing embassies to the public, shutting at least one consulate, ordering staff and families to depart and advising Americans in multiple countries to leave the region immediately as the United States and Israel strike Iran and the conflict widens. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said more than 9,000 Americans have returned safely from the Middle East since the weekend.

Díaz-Canel urges Cuba to overhaul economic and business model amid fuel pinch

2026-03-04

Cuba’s President Miguel Díaz-Canel said his government should focus “de inmediato” on urgent changes to the island’s economic and social model amid a petroleum squeeze. Speaking during a meeting of the Council of Ministers, he linked the push to efforts to expand business autonomy and municipal authority as the country faces fuel shortages and rolling power outages.

Macron says France will align nuclear deterrence with European allies

2026-03-04

PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that France is taking a new step in deterrence by aligning aspects of its nuclear strategy with eight European partners, while maintaining full French control over any nuclear strike decision. Macron made the announcement from a submarine base in western France, describing the move as crucial to bolstering Europe’s strategic autonomy.

National People’s Congress to set China’s economic goals and priorities

2026-03-04

China's ceremonial legislature, the National People’s Congress, will meet in Beijing on Thursday as part of the annual “Two Sessions,” where it is set to unveil policy direction and economic goals for the coming years, state media and officials said. The meeting will also ratify laws and other measures determined by Communist Party leadership, though the vote is routinely almost unanimous.

Russia bans Coming Out LGBTQ group as extremist, deepening Putin crackdown

2026-03-04

A Russian court on Tuesday designated the Coming Out LGBTQ+ rights group as an extremist organization, according to the group and a court hearing in St. Petersburg. The ruling adds to legal and public pressure on Russia’s LGBTQ community that has intensified in recent years under President Vladimir Putin.

Ryan Zinke won’t seek reelection, leaving Montana House seat open in fall

2026-03-04

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Former Trump Cabinet official Ryan Zinke said Monday he will not seek reelection to a fifth term in Montana’s U.S. House seat, citing health concerns. The announcement opens the door for Democrats to compete in a state where Republicans have tightened their grip in recent years.

Talarico wins Texas Senate Democratic nomination; Cornyn, Paxton face off

2026-03-04

Dallas state Rep. James Talarico topped Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett in Texas’ Democratic Senate primary, setting up a May runoff for the Republican nomination between Sen. John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton. The Democratic win renews hopes for a major upset in November in a state that has kept statewide control in Republican hands for more than 30 years.

Trump reverses course on law firm executive orders after Justice Department shift

2026-03-04

The Trump administration reversed course on Tuesday after backing out of a court fight over executive orders targeting major law firms, according to filings in Washington. In a brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, the Justice Department said it withdrew an earlier motion to dismiss but then filed a new position after judges rejected challenges brought by firms including Perkins Coie, Jenner & Block, Susman Godfrey and WilmerHale.

Trump threatens to cut off trade with Spain over NATO, Iran base dispute

2026-03-04

President Donald Trump threatened on Tuesday to end trade with Spain, linking the move to Spain’s refusal to allow U.S. use of jointly operated bases in southern Spain for strikes tied to the Iran war. Trump made the comments during an Oval Office meeting with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz as European officials said the EU would expect the U.S. to honor prior trade commitments.

Virginia Supreme Court clears April redistricting referendum that could shift four House seats

2026-03-04

Virginia's Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that a statewide referendum on a Democratic-led congressional redistricting plan can proceed as scheduled on April 21, overturning a temporary restraining order issued by a Tazewell County judge and allowing early voting to begin as soon as Friday. The court said it has not yet ruled on whether the mid-decade redistricting effort is constitutional, meaning the April vote could be rendered moot if the justices ultimately uphold the lower court's decision blocking the effort.

Walz, Ellison tell House panel Trump immigration crackdown hampered Minnesota fraud fight

2026-03-04

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison defended their fraud-fighting record before the U.S. House Oversight Committee on Wednesday, arguing that the Trump administration's mass immigration enforcement operation in their state has drained the prosecutorial resources needed to pursue Medicaid and other government fraud cases. Republicans on the panel accused the pair of stalling investigations, shielding wrongdoers to avoid disrupting a politically favored community, and failing taxpayers.

IRS chief declines to answer questions on unlawful taxpayer data disclosures to ICE

2026-03-04

IRS CEO Frank Bisignano declined to answer lawmakers' questions Wednesday about the agency's unlawful sharing of confidential taxpayer data with immigration authorities, telling the House Ways and Means Committee the disclosures occurred before his tenure began. A federal judge found last month that the IRS illegally shared taxpayer information approximately 42,695 times with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Bisignano confirmed that no IRS employee has been fired or disciplined in connection with the disclosures.

Connecticut education chief says FERPA bars homeschool-withdrawal alerts to DCF

2026-03-04

Connecticut's education commissioner said Tuesday that a proposed state law requiring school districts to alert the child welfare agency when families withdraw children to homeschool them would violate federal privacy law and put millions of dollars in federal education funding at risk. Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker, in written testimony to a legislative committee, said the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act prevents her department from disclosing student information without parental consent except for narrow research purposes. The measure is part of Senate Bill 6, an omnibus child welfare package drafted in part after two Connecticut cases in which parents allegedly used homeschooling to conceal prolonged abuse.

Noem defends DHS immigration enforcement after Minneapolis deaths

2026-03-04

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended her department’s immigration enforcement tactics before a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Tuesday, pushing back on Democrats’ criticism that she wrongly disparaged two protesters killed by federal officers in Minneapolis earlier this year. She said her remarks were based on reports from agents at the scene and argued officers faced “a serious and escalating threat” from what she called mischaracterizations of their work.

Trinidad and Tobago declares new state of emergency as violence persists

2026-03-04

Trinidad and Tobago declared a new state of emergency Tuesday, about a month after the previous one ended, as authorities cited persistent violent crime. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said the National Security Council identified attacks planned against law enforcement, a move she said would allow additional powers including arrests and searches without warrants.

Sea-level studies underestimate coastal flood risk for up to 132 million more, study finds

2026-03-04

A study published Wednesday in the journal *Nature* found that roughly 90% of scientific studies and hazard assessments have underestimated baseline coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot (30 centimeters), raising the prospect that climate change's rising seas may threaten tens of millions more people than scientists and government planners previously calculated. The error stems from a mismatch between the ways sea and land altitudes are measured — a gap researchers called a "methodological blind spot" that is most pronounced in the Global South, the Pacific, and Southeast Asia.

Trump administration launches Medicaid fraud probe in New York

2026-03-04

The Trump administration launched a Medicaid fraud investigation in New York on Tuesday, directing state officials to provide details on fraud, waste and abuse within 30 days or face deferred payments — the latest in a series of actions targeting health programs in Democratic-led states.

Democratic Party chair urges some governor candidates to drop out

2026-03-04

In California’s governor’s race, Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks warned that a top-two primary “election quirk” could produce two Republicans on the November ballot. In response, trailing Democrats including Tony Thurmond and Matt Mahan pushed back, saying candidates should not be told to quit.

Gonzales Acknowledges Affair, House Ethics Committee Opens Inquiry

2026-03-04

U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas acknowledged for the first time that he had an affair with former aide Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who later died after setting herself on fire, as the House Ethics Committee announced it was initiating an investigation. Gonzales made the admission Wednesday on the “Joe Pags Show,” saying he “made a mistake” and would cooperate with the panel’s review.

Haitian man dies in ICE custody in Arizona after untreated toothache

2026-03-04

Emmanuel Damas, 56, died at a hospital Monday after a tooth infection was left untreated while he was held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Florence Correctional Center in Arizona, his brother said. The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to questions, and a Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office report listed his cause of death as “pending” as of Wednesday.

Arkansas sheriff nomination goes to Aaron Spencer, accused in murder case

2026-03-04

Aaron Spencer, an Arkansas man accused of killing his daughter’s alleged abuser, won the Republican nomination for sheriff in Lonoke County, according to unofficial results posted by the state. Spencer, who is out on bond while awaiting trial, will face Democrat Brian Mitchell Sr. in the November election.

Election-year property tax cuts face hurdles in Georgia and Florida

2026-03-04

More states are weighing property-tax cut plans during what’s an election year for governors and legislators, but efforts to reduce taxes can run into resistance over funding for local governments and public schools. An Associated Press analysis points to lawmakers in Georgia and Florida facing political and legal obstacles as they consider whether to scale back property taxes or shift revenues to other sources.

Bill to establish statewide jail oversight in Washington dies in legislature

2026-03-04

A Washington state Senate bill that would have created an independent statewide jail oversight body failed after a watered-down version stalled in the Ways and Means Committee, lawmakers and oversight experts said. The proposal, Senate Bill 5005, was scaled back from requiring regular jail inspections and broader “oversight” language to a plan centered on a “jail council” intended to study issues.

New York AG orders NYU Langone to resume gender-affirming care

2026-03-04

New York Attorney General Letitia James has ordered NYU Langone, one of Manhattan’s largest hospitals, to resume gender-affirming care for transgender youth after the hospital ended such treatment for patients under 19. In a letter dated Feb. 25 but released this week, James said NYU Langone’s decision violated New York anti-discrimination laws by jeopardizing access to medically necessary health care for transgender youth.

Experts urge limits on doomscrolling after distressing Iran news

2026-03-04

As headlines over the weekend about U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and fears of a wider conflict spread, psychiatrists and psychologists say many people experience heightened stress and anxiety. Experts speaking to The Associated Press said it is normal to feel fear, sadness and confusion, but they urged people to take steps to reduce the intensity of their news intake. They recommended cutting back on social media, avoiding graphic content and setting limits on scrolling.

Judge and Minnesota prosecutor clash during contempt hearing over immigrant property

2026-03-04

ST. PAUL, Minn., March 3, 2026—A federal judge clashed with the top U.S. prosecutor in Minnesota during a contempt hearing tied to immigration cases in which judges ordered the government to return personal property to people after they were detained and then freed. The judge said the case would be a “historic low point” for the U.S. attorney’s office if he held anyone in contempt and later acknowledged the two sides had become “a little testy and frosty.” The judge said he would decide whether U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen and others should be held in contempt for failing to follow orders, but he did not give a timeline for a ruling.

Noteworthy and influential people who died in 2026, including Jesse Jackson

2026-03-04

Rev. Jesse L. Jackson and Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei are among the notable figures who died in February, according to an Associated Press year-in-review list of people who have died in 2026. The roll call also includes actor Robert Duvall, Three Dog Night singer Chuck Negron and Hall of Fame second baseman Bill Mazeroski. In January, the AP list cited deaths including comic actor Catherine O’Hara and CIA turncoat Aldrich Ames.

St. Vincent leader says Caribbean will talk with U.S. about boat strikes

2026-03-04

Prime Minister Godwin Friday of St. Vincent and the Grenadines said his government did not authorize deadly U.S. strikes on an alleged drug boat in local waters that killed three people. Friday said his administration learned of the Feb. 13 strike through social media and online reports.

California fire marshal report weighs “single stair” apartments up to 4 stories

2026-03-04

Two months after a statutory deadline, California’s Office of the State Fire Marshal published a report on whether the state should allow mid-rise apartment buildings with a single stairway. The draft takes a “fairly dim” view of “single stair” reform but offers conditions for legislators to consider if they proceed.

Why and how AP calls elections

2026-03-04

The Associated Press has a standardized method for compiling vote counts and declaring winners well before all ballots are certified. In a Feb. 3 explainer, AP describes how it collects results from counties, updates its vote tally throughout Election Night, and calls races when analysts determine the trailing candidate cannot catch up.

Newsom threatens California counties over CARE Court rollout gaps

2026-03-04

Gov. Gavin Newsom on March 2 threatened to redirect state funding from California counties he said are not doing enough to implement CARE Court, a court-based program intended to connect people with severe mental illness to treatment. Speaking at a mental health campus in Alameda County, Newsom named 10 counties he said are underperforming, while highlighting 10 others he said are meeting targets.

Virginia bill sets path for self-driving cars and trucks by 2028

2026-03-04

Virginia's Senate passed legislation last week that would create a regulatory framework for autonomous trucking and ride-hailing services in the state, with the bill's sponsor saying self-driving vehicles could begin operating as early as 2028 if the measure clears the General Assembly and wins the governor's signature. The Senate approved the bill 35–4. It is currently in subcommittee in the House of Delegates.

Trump touts ratepayer pledge as tech giants vow to self-fund AI power needs

2026-03-04

President Donald Trump hosted executives from seven major technology companies at the White House on Wednesday, announcing a voluntary "ratepayer protection" pledge in which the companies commit to building or purchasing their own electricity sources for AI data centers rather than drawing from the shared grid in ways that might raise consumers' utility bills. Google, Microsoft, Meta, Oracle, xAI, OpenAI and Amazon all signed onto the agreement.

Hegseth says Iran conflict “not endless,” warns more U.S. casualties

2026-03-02

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Monday that the U.S. and Israel’s strikes on Iran are not “endless,” while warning that more American casualties are likely in the weeks ahead. Speaking at a separate news conference with Joint Chiefs chairman Gen. Dan Caine, Hegseth also described the operation as having “decisive mission” goals aimed at eliminating Iranian ballistic-missile threats and leaving “no nukes.”

How Iran chooses a new supreme leader after Ali Khamenei’s death

2026-03-02

Iran on Sunday began a constitutional succession process after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei died, and it will rely on an interim leadership council while clerics prepare to select his successor. The Supreme Leader holds final say on state matters and serves as commander in chief of Iran’s military and the Revolutionary Guard, making the choice central to Iran’s future political and security direction.

North Carolina primaries: Senate, House, and court races head to Tuesday vote

2026-03-02

North Carolina voters will narrow the field of candidates Tuesday in a competitive U.S. Senate race and multiple other party contests that will shape the fall general-election matchup. Polls close at 7:30 p.m. ET, and the Associated Press will not declare winners until it can rule out scenarios that would let a trailing candidate catch up.

Congress to vote on war powers as Trump’s Iran war rationale shifts

2026-03-02

House Speaker Mike Johnson said late Monday that a classified briefing left him believing Israel was ready to act against Iran “with or without American support,” as Congress moves toward a war powers resolution meant to limit President Donald Trump’s authority to keep waging the Iran war without approval.

Texas GOP Senate primary enters final pitches ahead of March 3 vote

2026-03-02

SAN ANTONIO — U.S. Senate candidates in Texas made final pitches to voters Sunday ahead of Tuesday’s primary, the nation’s first major contest of the 2026 midterm elections. Incumbent Republican Sen. John Cornyn is trying to hold on to avoid becoming the first Republican senator from Texas to lose a primary, facing challenges from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt.

War in Iran jolts final day of Texas Senate primary campaigning

2026-03-02

WACO, Texas — Candidates in Texas’ tightly competitive U.S. Senate primary were treading carefully in the final hours before Tuesday’s election as the United States and Israel carried out strikes against Iran. Some Republican candidates referenced the war only briefly, while Democrats spoke to it in different terms and some voters said they want clearer objectives and an exit strategy.

Texas primaries Tuesday decide Senate, governor races and more

2026-03-02

Texas voters head to the polls Tuesday for a slate of Republican and Democratic primaries that will determine nominees for the November general election. The races include two U.S. Senate contests, with Republican Sen. John Cornyn seeking renomination against a crowded field and Democrats competing to challenge in November. In addition, voters choose nominees for governor and a full range of state offices, alongside House races in newly drawn congressional districts.

Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley win North Carolina Senate nominations

2026-03-02

North Carolina Democrats and Republicans on Tuesday chose Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley as their nominees for the open U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Republican Sen. Thom Tillis. The victories set up a high-stakes fall race that could help determine which party controls the Senate.

Louisiana National Guard extends New Orleans troop deployment through August

2026-03-02

New Orleans will keep 120 Louisiana National Guard troops through August, the state Guard said on March 2, extending a deployment that began in late December. The Louisiana National Guard said the troops would serve as a visible presence to deter criminal activity as the city moves into the spring events season.

Maine Democrat Graham Platner gains key Senate endorsement from Ruben Gallego

2026-03-02

Democrats are split over how to unseat Republican Sen. Susan Collins in Maine, with Gov. Janet Mills backing an establishment path while Senate candidate Graham Platner receives a high-profile boost. On Monday, Arizona Sen. Ruben Gallego endorsed Platner, saying the race needs candidates who can draw disaffected voters into politics. Platner has drawn new scrutiny tied to old social media posts and a tattoo he later covered.

House Oversight releases videos showing Clintons answer Epstein questions

2026-03-02

The House Oversight Committee released videos Monday showing depositions of former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in its investigation of Jeffrey Epstein. In the closed-door sessions held last week, lawmakers also questioned the Clintons about the pizzagate conspiracy theory and about what the government has said regarding UFOs, while Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton disputed or described their knowledge of Epstein. The videos were released as the committee faces renewed scrutiny over Epstein, who died by suicide in 2019 while facing sex-trafficking charges involving underage girls.

Alabama death row inmate Michael Sockwell to get new trial after SCOTUS

2026-03-02

The U.S. Supreme Court on March 2 declined to review an appeals court ruling that Alabama prosecutors violated Michael Sockwell’s rights by intentionally rejecting potential Black jurors. The decision clears the way for the Alabama inmate, on death row since 1990, to seek a new trial.

Democrats’ newfound unity faces a test after U.S. and Israel strikes on Iran

2026-03-02

Democrats who have largely aligned against President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda and other policies are facing new internal pressure after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, with Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, reportedly killed. Congressional Democrats are debating how quickly to pass a war powers resolution that would limit Trump’s attack options, even as some members signal reservations and leaders warn the party could split.

Supreme Court preserves GOP NYC district map for 2026 elections

2026-03-02

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday blocked a New York judge’s order that the state redraw the boundaries of the only GOP-held congressional district in New York City for the 2026 elections, over a ruling that the district diluted Black and Hispanic voters’ influence. The decision preserved the district represented by Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, covering Staten Island and a small portion of Brooklyn.

Medicaid work mandates force states to spend millions on new technology

2026-03-02

Some states preparing to start Medicaid work requirements will have to spend millions of dollars upgrading eligibility computer systems and hiring staff before the Jan. 1 start date, an Associated Press analysis found. Federal funding will help cover some costs, but the technology tab and added administration are projected to exceed $1 billion across more than 25 states, according to the analysis.

How AP decided to call US-Israeli strikes on Iran ‘war’

2026-03-02

The Associated Press said it uses the word “war” to describe joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and Iran’s retaliatory attacks. AP said the decision is based on the scope and intensity of the fighting, even though the countries have not formally declared war.

World leaders urge peace as Iran, US and Israel trade strikes

2026-03-02

A widening Middle East conflict drew calls for de-escalation Sunday as Britain, France and Germany said they are prepared to work with the United States to help defend regional interests after the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Protesters around the world expressed anger or celebrated the death, while Pope Leo XIV urged both the U.S. and Israel to “stop the spiral of violence.”

Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dies at 86

2026-03-02

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader since 1989, died Sunday at age 86, Iran’s state media reported. The Associated Press reported that he was killed in U.S. and Israeli strikes hours after President Donald Trump said the U.S. had carried out an operation that killed him.

Bolsonaro supporters rally in Brazil as election fight turns to Flávio

2026-03-02

Thousands of supporters of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro demonstrated across cities in Brazil on Sunday, rallying against President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva ahead of October elections. The marches, organized around Bolsonaro family figures, included calls to “Free Bolsonaro” and criticism of Brazil’s Supreme Court.

Gaza crossings close again as Palestinians fear Iran war will eclipse ceasefire

2026-03-02

Gaza’s ceasefire has weakened as Israel has closed crossings and halted entry and exit for humanitarian workers, Palestinians and an Israeli military office said, amid U.S. and Israeli attacks against Iran. Residents said the closures during Ramadan have disrupted markets and left people rushing to stock up on food and supplies. The United Nations and aid groups have warned that hunger remains in the enclave and that limited access threatens supplies.

Trump to attend White House correspondents’ dinner for first time as president

2026-03-02

President Donald Trump said he will attend this year’s White House Correspondents’ Association dinner on April 25, marking the first time he has done so as commander in chief. In a post on Monday evening, Trump said the association asked him to be the Honoree and that it will be his “Honor to accept their invitation.”

Trump awards Medal of Honor to three U.S. Army soldiers at White House

2026-03-02

President Donald Trump awarded the Medal of Honor to three U.S. Army soldiers at the White House on Monday, recognizing combat service from wars spanning Vietnam, Afghanistan and World War II. The ceremony included the families of the honorees and remarks from Trump and Polish officials, and it began with Trump saying the event “There’s no ceremony that can be more important than this.”

Minnesota sues Trump administration over $243M Medicaid spending hold

2026-03-02

Minnesota sued the Trump administration to block federal officials from “immediately withholding” $243 million in Medicaid spending, a move the state said could force cuts to health care for low-income families. The lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis names the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and also names CMS administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in their official capacities.

Jesse Jackson lies in state at South Carolina Capitol after death

2026-03-02

Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson Sr.’s flag-draped casket was brought into the South Carolina Capitol in Columbia on Monday, where he became the second Black person to lie in state at the building. Thousands waited as the Capitol opened to the public for people to view him, after which Jackson’s family said he would continue memorial events in Chicago.

Tony Gonzales forced into Texas primary runoff after affair allegations

2026-03-02

Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas will face a primary runoff after not reaching a majority in Tuesday’s GOP vote amid allegations he had an affair with a former aide. The runoff pits Gonzales against GOP challenger Brandon Herrera, according to The Associated Press.

Democratic moderates warn party not to lean too far left in 2026

2026-03-02

Democratic moderates are pushing Democratic candidates to “win the middle” in the 2026 midterms and shape the party’s 2028 message, warning that leaning too far left could cost Democrats the White House, according to Third Way’s conference in Charleston, South Carolina.

California Republicans clash with rural backers over gas tax study

2026-03-02

California Republicans have blasted a bill to study road-user charges as Democrats’ “dishonest ploy” to raise taxes, but rural officials and conservative interest groups who face road-repair pressures say the study is needed as fuel-tax revenue falls.

NYC paid $117M in 2025 police misconduct settlements, analysis finds

2026-03-02

New York City paid more than $117 million last year to settle police misconduct lawsuits, covering cases that ranged from violent arrests of protesters in 2020 to allegations of wrongful convictions in the 1980s, according to an analysis of city data released this week. The payouts add to a total of nearly $800 million since 2019, The Legal Aid Society said.

U-M ends ties with PhD Project after U.S. civil rights office action

2026-03-02

The University of Michigan said it has ended its partnership with the nonprofit PhD Project after an agreement with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, according to federal officials. The federal office said the PhD Project “unlawfully limits eligibility based on race,” and that U-M and other universities violated Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act by partnering with a race-discriminating organization.

Venezuela opposition leader Machado says she will return in coming weeks

2026-03-02

CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said on Sunday she will return to Venezuela in the coming weeks, adding that elections will be held in the South American country. In a message shared on social media, Machado said one of her objectives would be to prepare for “a new and gigantic electoral victory” and called on supporters to strengthen unity begun with the 2023 primaries.

War powers debate intensifies in Congress after Trump orders Iran strikes

2026-03-01

WASHINGTON — Key members of Congress are pushing for a swift vote on a war powers resolution to restrain President Donald Trump’s military attack on Iran unless the administration seeks Congress’s approval, according to the Associated Press. The House and Senate are preparing a rare war powers debate next week that Democrats warn could be “illegal” without authorization.

Democrats bet Latin Grammy winner Bobby Pulido can flip Texas House seat

2026-03-01

In a closely watched South Texas congressional race, Democrats are turning to Latin Grammy winner Bobby Pulido, pitching the Tejano music star’s cultural ties as the best bet to win a district that Republicans say was drawn to protect U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz. Pulido spoke at a South Texas adult day care center as he campaigned for the Democratic nomination, where he faces Ada Cuellar, a doctor and law school graduate running to his left.

Trump’s Iran attack tests his past criticism of drawn-out foreign wars

2026-03-01

President Donald Trump’s decision to authorize U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran Saturday is intensifying scrutiny of a transformation he has described as necessary to deter future threats—at odds with how he once attacked the Iraq War and criticized drawn-out military campaigns. The action also comes amid political pressure for Republicans heading into an election year, with some allies urging support while others warn of “another preemptive war.”

North Korea’s Kim gifts rifles to top officials after party congress

2026-03-01

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un gifted sniper rifles to senior party and military officials after a weeklong ruling party congress, state media reported Saturday. The state-run Korean Central News Agency said Kim presented the weapons Friday and called them a sign of “absolute trust.” The coverage also highlighted Kim’s teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, taking aim at a shooting range, a detail that has fueled speculation about whether she is being groomed for future leadership.

Key political and religious figures in Iran as leadership roles face upheaval

2026-03-01

The U.S. and Israel launched a major attack on Iran on Saturday, and Iranian state media reported that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei died in the strikes. U.S. President Donald Trump called on the Iranian public to “seize control of your destiny” and said the attack created what he described as a historic chance for the country. Even with leadership deaths, the article says regime change is not guaranteed, and it lists key figures across Iran’s political and religious hierarchy.

Iran’s supreme leader Khamenei dead at 86 after crackdown and nuclear tensions

2026-03-01

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has died at 86, Iranian state media confirmed, hours after U.S. President Donald Trump said Khamenei was killed in an attack by U.S. and Israeli forces. The death came amid nationwide protests that human rights groups and activists said were met with the deadliest crackdown in decades, and as the U.S. and Iran tested nuclear negotiations alongside the threat of strikes.

Trump says U.S. has begun “major combat operations” in Iran

2026-03-01

President Donald Trump said in an eight-minute video posted on his Truth Social account that the U.S. has begun “major combat operations in Iran.” In the address, Trump said the U.S. military’s objective is to eliminate what he called imminent threats from Iran and appealed to Iranian people to “take over your government.”

Voters face new US House maps in Texas midterm elections

2026-03-01

Texas voters head to the polls Tuesday to cast ballots for Congress under newly drawn U.S. House maps, a shift that changes district lines for millions compared with the last election. The Associated Press spoke with residents across the state about what the redistricting has done to their representation, from Dallas neighborhoods to the Rio Grande Valley and Houston-area suburbs.

World leaders react to US and Israeli strikes on Iran

2026-03-01

BRUSSELS — World leaders reacted warily to U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran after reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei died, with some urging renewed diplomacy while others condemned Tehran’s retaliation. The U.N. Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting on the strikes.

Trump administration holds children in immigration detention for months

2026-03-01

A Texas detention center holding immigrant families has kept children detained for months, according to families, lawyers and child-rights advocates, as the Trump administration ramps up family detention again. The Associated Press described conditions at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center, where several children experienced long detention beyond a 20-day court limit and families alleged poor medical care and mental-health harm. The AP also reported that ICE booked more than 3,800 children into detention during the first nine months of the administration, with many sent to Dilley.

Defense Secretary halts Anthropic work amid Pentagon AI dispute

2026-03-01

President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said this week they are curbing Anthropic’s use of artificial intelligence in the U.S. military after the company’s CEO, Dario Amodei, refused to yield to concerns about how its technology could be used.

Arrests in South Sudan target former finance and petroleum officials

2026-03-01

South Sudan has detained a series of former government figures in a wave of arrests that analysts say reflects strains inside President Salva Kiir’s administration amid an armed rebellion. The latest detention involves Bak Barnaba Chol, a former finance minister, who was taken into custody while trying to cross into Uganda, the Associated Press reported.

Muere el líder supremo de Irán, Alí Jamenei, tras ataque de EEUU e Israel

2026-03-01

El líder supremo de Irán, el ayatolá Alí Jamenei, murió en un ataque de gran magnitud atribuido a Israel y Estados Unidos, informaron medios estatales iraníes el domingo. El presidente Donald Trump anunció la muerte horas antes, al tiempo que Irán advirtió represalias y elevó las alarmas por una escalada regional. El gabinete iraní dijo que “este gran crimen nunca quedará impune”.

Biden returns to South Carolina for Democrats’ ‘thank you’ event

2026-03-01

Joe Biden returned to South Carolina on Friday for a “thank you” event hosted by state Democrats, where supporters credited his 2020 primary win with rescuing his presidential campaign. At the gathering in Columbia, Biden said it was “good to be back home,” and he took aim at Donald Trump, alleging Trump was “trying to steal the election.”

EU prepares tougher migration measures, but Crete sees spike in arrivals

2026-03-01

Europe is preparing tougher migration measures as a Greek island sees illegal crossings rise, with Frontex deploying new surveillance efforts aimed at the sea route between Libya and Crete. Crete recorded about 20,000 arrivals of irregular migrants last year, following a threefold increase, even as irregular migration to Europe fell in 2025, Frontex data show. Officials say the longer Libyan route is becoming the deadliest pressure point as wars and instability across Africa fuel departures.

ICE’s reopened Dilley center holds more children as families allege poor care

2026-03-01

The Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement has increased the number of children and parents held at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in Texas, according to an Associated Press analysis of data. The AP report says many children are detained longer than a 20-day limit set by a longstanding court order, and some parents described difficulties obtaining medical care for their children while they were held. The Department of Homeland Security and ICE disputed allegations raised by the AP.

Nonprofit seeks Gen Z civic engagement through easy “civic actions”

2026-03-01

NEW YORK (AP) — A privately funded nonprofit is inviting schools, employers and other partners to help Gen Z young people take part in low-barrier civic “actions,” such as calling elected representatives, volunteering locally or hosting public conversations. The nonprofit says its goal is to empower 20 million people ages 14 to 24 over the next three years.

South Africa to deploy army to curb gang violence and illegal mining

2026-03-01

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa announced an army deployment to high-crime areas to fight gang violence and illegal mining. The first major deployment began in Johannesburg on Wednesday, after Ramaphosa said last month the move was aimed at organized crime and was “the most immediate threat” to the country’s democracy and economic development.

Judge extends order protecting Minnesota refugees from arrest and deportation

2026-02-28

A federal judge in Minnesota extended an order blocking the arrest and deportation of refugees in the state who are lawfully in the U.S., as the case challenges a Trump administration policy announced this month. U.S. District Judge John Tunheim granted advocates’ request to turn a temporary restraining order issued in January into a preliminary injunction while the legal fight continues.

Anthropic CEO says it cannot “accede” to Pentagon AI demands

2026-02-28

Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei said the company “cannot in good conscience accede” to Pentagon demands for unrestricted use of its AI technology. The comments deepen a public dispute after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth gave Anthropic an ultimatum, threatening to pull the contract and take other steps by Friday.

Pentagon says Scouting America will alter scouting policies for military ties

2026-02-28

Pentagon reached an agreement with Scouting America to keep their century-old partnership, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Feb. 27, after he criticized the group’s stance on diversity and transgender youth. The deal includes changes to merit badges and a pledge to require members to use sex assigned at birth rather than gender identity, Hegseth said. Scouting America said the agreement does not change its existing policy welcoming transgender youth and that the organization has already incorporated transgender participation into its program.

Connecticut passes emergency bill to curb bottle redemption fraud

2026-02-28

Connecticut lawmakers on Thursday passed an emergency bill aimed at curbing fraudulent bottle and can redemptions from out of state, escalating fines and tightening oversight of redemption centers. The measure, Senate Bill 299, increases the deposit value to 10 cents and is set to go to Gov. Ned Lamont after winning passage in both chambers.

Vermont school budgets face pressure as health costs rise

2026-02-28

Vermonters voting on Town Meeting Day will decide school district budgets and whether small elementary schools stay open, as property tax burdens, inflation, and federal funding uncertainties collide. The Associated Press reports that health care costs are rising sharply for districts, forcing budget increases and staff and program cuts in recent years.

Trump says U.S. could have “a friendly takeover of Cuba”

2026-02-28

President Donald Trump said Friday the United States is in talks with Havana and raised the possibility of “a friendly takeover of Cuba,” without laying out details of what the prospect would mean. Trump said Secretary of State Marco Rubio is discussing Cuba with Cuban leaders “at a very high level.”

U.S. military used a laser to down a drone near Fort Hancock

2026-02-28

The U.S. military used a laser to shoot down a drone over near Fort Hancock, Texas, late Thursday, after lawmakers said they were told the aircraft appeared to be a threat. The Border Patrol said it was the type of drone the CBP says it typically deals with, but officials said the laser was used under a coordinated effort among the military, the FAA and CBP.

Mary Mushinsky, Connecticut House dean, to retire after 46 years

2026-02-28

Mary Mushinsky, the longest-serving member of the Connecticut House of Representatives, said Thursday she will retire, ending a 46-year run in the state legislature. Mushinsky, 74 and known as the “dean” of the House, announced from the House floor that her final year will be her last, with a potential successor to be named Friday.

Iran denies IAEA access to nuclear sites; watchdog can’t confirm enrichment halt

2026-02-28

Iran has not allowed the U.N. nuclear agency access to nuclear facilities bombed by Israel and the United States during a 12-day war in June, according to a confidential report reviewed by The Associated Press. The International Atomic Energy Agency said it cannot verify whether Iran suspended all uranium enrichment-related activities or determine the current size and composition of enriched uranium stocks at the affected sites.

Protests persist at Iranian colleges as US military threat looms

2026-02-28

Iranian college students have staged anti-government protests on at least 10 campuses in the past week, as authorities warn them not to cross a “red line” and tighten restrictions amid threats of U.S. military action over Iran’s nuclear program. The Associated Press verified videos of clashes and demonstrations on multiple campuses, and students and witnesses described rising anger and confusion about the country’s direction.

Guinea releases 16 Sierra Leone security forces after border dispute

2026-02-28

Guinea released 16 soldiers and police officers it had arrested from neighboring Sierra Leone after a border dispute, Sierra Leonean authorities said. The detainees were handed over following a visit to Conakry by a delegation led by Sierra Leone’s foreign minister, Alhaji Timothy Kabba.

Bill Clinton tells lawmakers he “did nothing wrong” in Epstein ties

2026-02-28

In a congressional deposition held in Chappaqua, New York, former President Bill Clinton told lawmakers he “did nothing wrong” regarding his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. Clinton said he saw “nothing” indicating Epstein’s sexual abuse and said he had long stopped associating with the financier by the time Epstein pleaded guilty in 2008. The closed-door testimony followed a deposition of Clinton’s wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the day before.

Kamala Harris endorses Jasmine Crockett in Texas Democratic Senate primary

2026-02-28

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris endorsed U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett in Texas’s Democratic primary for Senate, a major establishment stamp as Crockett seeks the party nomination against state Rep. James Talarico. Harris recorded a robocall with her endorsement, according to a spokesperson for Crockett’s campaign.

Minnesota chief judge warns prosecutor and ICE: obey court orders or face contempt

2026-02-28

Federal Judge Patrick Schiltz warned Thursday that Minnesota’s top U.S. prosecutor and Immigration and Customs Enforcement must comply with court orders or face criminal contempt charges, after saying the government has repeatedly failed to follow directives. The warning followed a Feb. 9 email from U.S. Attorney Daniel Rosen disputing Schiltz’s account of ICE noncompliance.

Pentagon to bar troops from Columbia, Yale, Brown and more

2026-02-28

The Pentagon will forbid members of the U.S. military from attending Columbia, Yale, Brown and other universities starting next school year, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said. The ban is part of a campaign to cut ties with schools he described as “factories of anti-American resentment,” and it was announced in a video posted on social media.

Trump not happy with Iran nuclear talks, says negotiators get more time

2026-02-28

President Donald Trump said Friday he is “not happy” with the latest talks over Iran’s nuclear program but indicated negotiators would get more time. The remarks came a day after U.S. envoys held another inconclusive round of indirect talks with Iran in Geneva, amid heightened military activity in the region and warnings from both sides.

What to watch as midterms begin with Tuesday primaries in Texas, North Carolina

2026-02-28

Midterm election season begins Tuesday with primaries in Texas, North Carolina and Arkansas that will offer early signals about how voters view President Donald Trump’s second-term agenda. Republicans are leaning on Trump’s endorsement power, while Democrats are testing whether their candidates should fight harder or pivot toward new faces. The primaries run into September before the November general election that determines control of Congress and statehouses.

Trump administration orders new scrutiny of admitted refugees

2026-02-28

Their family spent years opposing Venezuela’s socialist system, then moved to the United States after obtaining refugee status. But in Minnesota, the Trump administration has detained and questioned refugees already admitted to the country, prompting lawsuits and a judge’s order extending protections for refugees in the state.

EEOC rejects transgender Army worker’s bid to use women’s bathroom

2026-02-28

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has ruled that federal agencies may bar transgender employees from using bathrooms aligned with their gender identity, rejecting an appeal by a transgender woman who worked for the U.S. Army. The 2-1 decision held that the Army’s choice did not violate Title VII’s ban on sex discrimination.

Hawaii lawmakers advance bills limiting cooperation with ICE in 2026 session

2026-02-28

Hawaii lawmakers are advancing multiple bills aimed at limiting state and local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities as the 2026 legislative session reaches midterm. Advocates and lawmakers said increased federal enforcement elsewhere—including Minnesota—has shifted lawmakers toward a more aggressive approach to protect immigrants and preserve civil liberties. Bills include proposals to restrict police involvement in immigration detention and to require agencies to advise people of their rights before interviews by federal immigration agents.

Freed Venezuelan politician Enrique Márquez urges unity after Maduro’s ouster

2026-02-28

Venezuelan politician Enrique Márquez, released from prison earlier this month after years of detention following his challenge to the 2024 election, urged political rivals on Friday to work together for the country’s recovery. Márquez called on the opposition and the ruling party to “lock up egos in a drawer” during a news conference, days after he appeared in the days after President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address. The former presidential hopeful was detained in January 2025 and later received amnesty after interim President Delcy Rodríguez signed an amnesty measure into law.

Partido Verde gana elección especial en Inglaterra y relega a Laboristas

2026-02-28

Hannah Spencer, del Partido Verde, ganó una elección parlamentaria especial en Gorton y Denton, Inglaterra, el viernes, con 14.980 votos, según el recuento publicado. El resultado marginó al Partido Laborista del primer ministro Keir Starmer, que quedó tercero, mientras Reform UK obtuvo 10.578 votos y la laborista Angeliki Stogia 9.364.

Paramount wins heated fight for Warner but regulators could still kill the deal

2026-02-28

Paramount’s planned buyout of Warner Bros. Discovery has cleared a major hurdle after it beat Netflix in a contested takeover effort, but the next test is regulatory. The U.S. Justice Department, the Federal Trade Commission and other oversight bodies must assess whether the deal would give Paramount too much power and potentially harm customers.

Melania Trump to preside over UN Security Council meeting for March

2026-02-28

Melania Trump will preside over a U.N. Security Council meeting next Monday during the United States’ rotating presidency for March, a first for a first lady, the United Nations said. Stephane Dujarric, a U.N. spokesman, said the meeting will be the first time a first lady—or a first gentleman—has presided over the council.

U.S. Forest Service proposes long-term logging in Michigan

2026-02-28

The U.S. Forest Service is proposing the Silver Branch Vegetation Management Project in Michigan’s Ottawa National Forest, a plan that would clear-cut about 25,000 acres over decades and also includes gravel mining expansion, road building and habitat work. Environmental groups and other opponents say the proposal could threaten endangered species habitat, increase runoff and spread invasive species. Forest Service officials say the project focuses on forest maintenance and health, including protecting habitat for species such as the northern long-eared bat and Kirtland’s warbler.

Los Angeles school chief Alberto Carvalho placed on paid leave in FBI probe

2026-02-28

Los Angeles school superintendent Alberto Carvalho was placed on paid leave after the FBI served search warrants at his home and at district headquarters, the Associated Press reported on Friday. The FBI has not said what the federal probe involves, and officials have not accused Carvalho of wrongdoing.

Judge says IRS broke law by disclosing taxpayer addresses to ICE

2026-02-28

A federal judge said the IRS broke the law by disclosing confidential taxpayer information “approximately 42,695 times” to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly is based on an IRS declaration filed earlier this month and concerns a data-sharing agreement between the IRS and DHS. The government is appealing, and the transfers have faced additional court blocks.

Bondi announces 30 more federal charges in Minnesota church protest

2026-02-28

The U.S. attorney general, Pam Bondi, announced federal charges against 30 additional people accused of civil rights violations linked to a protest inside Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, in January. Bondi said 25 of the defendants were taken into custody and that more arrests are expected.

Haiti police chief says draft plan aims to hold elections amid gang violence

2026-02-28

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti — Haiti’s National Police chief said authorities are working on a plan to safely hold general elections this year, despite continued gang violence. Interim police chief André Jonas Vladimir Paraison told The Associated Press that the election plan is still being prepared and that he could not provide more details. The government has said it aims to hold general elections in late August with a runoff in early December.

Border Patrol agents under scrutiny after Myanmar refugee found dead

2026-02-28

Border Patrol agents released a nearly blind refugee from Myanmar at a Buffalo fast-food restaurant days before he was later found dead, a case that has prompted scrutiny over what agents did after dropping him off and whether his family and lawyer were told his whereabouts, according to video and statements reported by AP.

Belarus court convicts independent journalists, sentences jail terms

2026-02-28

Two independent journalists in Belarus were convicted on high treason charges and sentenced to long prison terms as the government continues a crackdown on free speech, media groups said. The court in Brest convicted Uladzimir Yanukevich and Andrei Pakalenka, according to Belarusian media rights advocates. The proceedings were held behind closed doors, and state television reported alleged links to the German Embassy.

Trump orders all U.S. agencies to stop using Anthropic’s AI

2026-02-28

The Trump administration ordered all U.S. agencies to stop using Anthropic’s artificial intelligence technology and imposed other major penalties, escalating a public dispute between the government and the company over AI safety. President Donald Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and other officials criticized Anthropic after the company refused to meet a Pentagon deadline tied to how the military could use its AI systems, according to the Associated Press.

Familia de relatora de la ONU demanda a Trump por sanciones

2026-02-28

La familia de Francesca Albanese, relatora especial de la ONU para Cisjordania y Gaza, demandó al gobierno del presidente Donald Trump por las sanciones de Estados Unidos impuestas el año pasado, según su demanda presentada en un tribunal federal de Washington. En el escrito, el esposo y una hija menor de Albanese argumentan que las penalizaciones violan la Primera Enmienda al sancionar sus opiniones. La Casa Blanca no respondió a solicitudes de comentarios y un portavoz del Departamento de Estado declinó opinar sobre un litigio en curso.

Civil rights marker unveiled at historic Durkeeville church in Jacksonville

2026-02-28

Jacksonville on Feb. 27 unveiled a replica of a civil-rights marker to be installed outside Mount Ararat Missionary Baptist Church, part of the city’s inclusion on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail. The marker highlights Mount Ararat’s link to a March 1961 visit by Martin Luther King Jr., and the city plans to place more than three dozen markers across Jacksonville in the coming months.

Deadline looms for Babson student deported to Honduras as court order nears

2026-02-28

A federal deadline nears for the U.S. government to facilitate the return of a Babson College freshman mistakenly deported to Honduras, setting up renewed legal pressure on immigration officials. Her lawyers say federal agents wanted her to board a flight that could have led to detention in Texas, while the government said she failed to appear for a prearranged flight.

Exiled activist Kwok vows to keep fighting after Hong Kong jails her father

2026-02-28

Exiled Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Anna Kwok said a Hong Kong court ruling that jailed her father for eight months has strengthened her resolve. Kwok spoke to The Associated Press days after the sentence, describing it as a personal cost tied to her activism and saying she would not back down.

Faces of Mexico’s disappeared haunt Guadalajara as World Cup nears

2026-02-28

Families in Guadalajara, Jalisco, are hanging thousands of fliers with photos of people who were forcibly disappeared, saying authorities are trying to make it easier to remove the signs ahead of the FIFA World Cup. The conflict follows violence after the killing of the cartel leader known as “El Mencho,” and some search groups say they have had to suspend investigations.

FDA plans bonuses for staff who finish faster drug reviews

2026-02-28

The head of the Food and Drug Administration said the agency plans to offer bonus payments to drug reviewers who complete reviews ahead of schedule, in what he described as a pilot program. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary told staff during a Thursday presentation that the first quarterly bonuses would begin around August.

ICE operation at Columbia sparks questions after agents posed as police

2026-02-28

New York police responded to a 911 call at Columbia University about two “suspicious” men on Feb. 26, only to find U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents conducting an operation that Columbia said relied on posing as police. Immigration officials have said Ellie Aghayeva, a student from Azerbaijan, was arrested after her visa was overstayed.

Kansas faces lawsuit over law invalidating some trans residents’ IDs

2026-02-28

Two transgender men sued Kansas in federal district court after a new state law invalidated their driver’s licenses and thousands of others, arguing the measure violates rights under the Kansas Constitution. The lawsuit, filed Thursday in Douglas County, also challenges the law’s enforcement provisions tied to a 3-year-old policy restricting transgender people from using public restrooms and other single-sex facilities.

Shooting in boat off Cuba spotlights Florida political exile groups

2026-02-28

A shooting erupted after a stolen boat with 10 people and weapons left the Florida Keys heading to Cuba, leaving four dead, according to the Cuban and U.S. accounts. The episode has drawn attention in South Florida to long-running anti-Cuban exile political groups, some of which have backed paramilitary action in the past.

Treasury ends union contracts for IRS and Fiscal Service workers

2026-02-28

The Treasury Department terminated collective bargaining agreements for unionized workers at the Internal Revenue Service and the Bureau of the Fiscal Service, escalating President Donald Trump’s push to exert more control over the federal workforce. The agency cited an executive order Trump signed last March as authority for the terminations, according to a letter seen by The Associated Press.

US cardinals and pope’s ambassador decry mass deportations, urge reconciling

2026-02-28

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Two American cardinals and the Vatican’s ambassador to the U.S. denounced what they called mass deportations in Minnesota tied to the federal government’s immigration crackdown, calling instead for reconciliation and humane solutions. Cardinal Robert McElroy of Washington, Cardinal Joseph Tobin of Newark and Archbishop Bernard Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis spoke during a Mass for migrants on Friday. The prelates said Catholic teaching supports border control for people convicted of serious crimes, but they said seeking to deport millions—including families who have lived in the U.S. for decades—is contrary to Catholic faith and basic human dignity.

Judge rejects request to block Trump White House ballroom project

2026-02-27

A federal judge on Thursday rejected a request by a preservationist group to temporarily halt President Donald Trump’s White House ballroom project after demolition of the East Wing. U.S. District Judge Richard Leon said the group’s legal challenge was unlikely to succeed and urged the National Trust for Historic Preservation to amend its lawsuit.

Trump won’t name his Texas Senate primary pick yet, backs all three

2026-02-27

President Donald Trump says he has “pretty much” decided whom to endorse in Texas’ Senate Republican primary, but he declined to name a specific pick ahead of the March 3 contest. Speaking Friday in Corpus Christi, Trump praised each of the three Republicans seeking the nomination—Ken Paxton, John Cornyn and Rep. Wesley Hunt—while highlighting issues including energy and economic policy.

Trump agreed to release Columbia student detained by ICE, Mamdani says

2026-02-27

Federal immigration authorities arrested a Columbia University student early Thursday, triggering protests on campus, but she was later released the same day after President Donald Trump agreed to free her, Mayor Zohran Mamdani said. Mamdani said he raised concerns about Ellie Aghayeva’s arrest during a separate meeting with Trump, and DHS/ICE permitted her to walk free shortly afterward.

Maui Planning Commission rejects rezoning bid affecting thousands of rentals

2026-02-27

Maui’s Planning Commission voted to recommend the County Council oppose a bill that would create new hotel zoning districts, allowing thousands of vacation rentals to keep operating as short-term stays. After more than two hours of public testimony Tuesday, the panel backed the County Council’s existing approach to phase out exemptions tied to Bill 9.

Canada's Carney visits India to restore ties, diversify trade from U.S.

2026-02-27

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is traveling to India to restore diplomatic ties and diversify Canada’s trade away from the United States, according to a report by The Associated Press. His visit comes after years of strain between Ottawa and New Delhi tied to allegations involving a Sikh separatist leader, as well as fresh uncertainty around U.S. tariff threats.

Anchorage School Board approves severe budget with layoffs and 3 school closures

2026-02-27

Anchorage’s School Board voted Tuesday night to approve a “severe” budget that cuts more than 500 staff positions, including over 300 teachers, and closes three elementary schools. The district said the cuts follow a $90 million deficit attributed to years of flat state funding and that it faces additional multimillion-dollar shortfalls in the next two years.

Canada warns USMCA could face annual review, cites investment chill

2026-02-27

Canada’s minister for U.S. trade warned Thursday that the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement could face annual review, saying the uncertainty may be part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade strategy. Dominic LeBlanc told a business audience in Toronto that he will meet with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington next week ahead of the mandatory USMCA review in July.

Panama seizes ports after court ruling deepens US-China dispute

2026-02-27

Panama’s government has occupied two ports at either end of the Panama Canal, stepping in after the country’s Supreme Court ruled a concession for the Hong Kong-linked operator was unconstitutional, as the dispute draws in the United States and China. President José Raúl Mulino told China to “be careful” and said Panama “need[s] us more than we need them.” The U.S. and China have disputed the implications of the concessions and the court case, with Washington warning a Chinese operator was unacceptable and Beijing saying Panama was bowing to “hegemonic powers.”

SAVE Act stalls in Senate despite Trump demands

2026-02-27

Senate Republicans said election-year legislation to require proof of U.S. citizenship to register and vote appears stalled “for now,” even after President Donald Trump urged in his State of the Union speech that GOP lawmakers pass it “before anything else.” The bill, called the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, hinges on Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s efforts to navigate pressure from Trump allies and Democrats’ opposition.

Abrego Garcia seeks to have smuggling charges dismissed in court

2026-02-27

A federal judge heard testimony Thursday in a human smuggling case involving Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran man prosecutors say should have faced charges based on evidence from a 2022 traffic stop. Abrego Garcia, who has said a 2019 order blocks deportation to El Salvador, is asking the court to dismiss the prosecution as vindictive and tied to the Trump administration’s efforts after the Supreme Court ordered officials to bring him back.

Appeals court clears way for Texas drag ban to take effect in March

2026-02-27

Texas’ drag ban will take effect March 18 after a federal appeals court denied the plaintiffs’ request for rehearing and reissued its ruling, the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas said Wednesday. The court said most of the plaintiffs failed to show they intended to conduct a “sexually oriented performance” under Senate Bill 12, which would restrict certain public drag acts.

Judge lets Nevada trans athlete ballot initiative proceed, but orders wording changes

2026-02-27

Carson City District Judge Jason Woodbury dismissed a legal challenge to a proposed Nevada ballot initiative that would require school sports overseers to classify athletes by sex assigned at birth. The judge said supporters must change the ballot’s “description of effect” wording to say the measure would carve out an exception to Nevada’s equal-rights guarantee.

Trump’s State of the Union prompt leaves Democrats facing a dilemma

2026-02-27

President Donald Trump drew a sharp line for Democrats during his State of the Union address Tuesday, asking lawmakers to stand if they agreed that the government’s first duty is to protect U.S. citizens—not “illegal immigrants.” Democrats mostly remained seated in a moment that drew immediate reaction from political commentators and party leaders.

UN investigator Albanese’s family sues Trump administration over sanctions

2026-02-27

The family of UN human rights investigator Francesca Albanese has sued the Trump administration in U.S. federal court, arguing that U.S. sanctions imposed on her for criticizing Israel’s conduct during the Israel-Hamas war violate the First Amendment, according to a lawsuit filed Feb. 26. The U.N. special rapporteur for the West Bank and Gaza says the sanctions have harmed the family’s ability to live and work in the United States, while the State Department has dismissed the case as baseless “lawfare.”

Mamdani pitches Trump on NYC housing in latest White House visit

2026-02-27

Zohran Mamdani, the mayor of New York City, visited President Donald Trump at the White House and presented him with a mock newspaper front page to illustrate a proposed package of federal housing investments for the city, the Associated Press reported. The pitch included a plan to build 12,000 new affordable homes at Sunnyside Yard in Queens through more than $21 billion in federal grants, Mamdani’s communications director said. During the same meeting, Mamdani also raised the detention of Ellie Aghayeva, a Columbia University student from Azerbaijan, and pressed for her release.

WEF chief Børge Brende quits over Epstein links

2026-02-27

Børge Brende, president and chief executive of the World Economic Forum, said Thursday he is stepping down after pressure over his contacts with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Brende said in a statement that he decided “after careful consideration” to resign, and the forum said an independent review found no additional concerns beyond what had previously been disclosed.

Trump’s State of the Union draws 32.6 million viewers, down from 2025

2026-02-27

President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address was seen by an estimated 32.6 million people this week, down about 4 million from his 2025 speech to Congress, according to Nielsen ratings cited by the Associated Press. The broadcast reached viewers across 15 television networks and drew an older-skewing audience, with 23.6 million viewers age 55 and up.

Tampa airport says pajama “ban” post was a joke after backlash

2026-02-27

Tampa International Airport sparked debate online after it posted that it wanted to ban travelers from wearing pajamas at the airport in Florida. The airport later clarified the post was “another playful nod” to day-of-travel fashion debates and said it encourages passengers to travel comfortably.

Walz unveils anti-fraud plan after Medicaid funds freeze in dispute

2026-02-27

Gov. Tim Walz denounced the Trump administration’s threat to withhold Minnesota Medicaid funds as part of a “retribution” campaign and unveiled new legislation aimed at fighting fraud in public programs. Walz spoke a day after Vice President JD Vance said the administration would “temporarily halt” some Medicaid funding over fraud concerns.

Berkeley City Council approves housing projects that sidestep labor standards

2026-02-27

Berkeley’s City Council voted to approve two high-rise housing projects that use California’s density bonus law to seek exemptions from a 2023 city ordinance requiring healthcare coverage and apprenticeship training for workers on large projects. Councilmembers said the state law limits the city’s ability to force the developers to follow the requirements, and some cited concerns about costly court fights. The approvals allow the projects to move forward despite months of protests by construction unions.

Controversial Kōloa housing project wins unanimous approval with limits

2026-02-27

A controversial 148-unit housing project in Kōloa, Kaua‘i, was approved unanimously by the island’s Planning Commission, with conditions intended to prevent the units from becoming vacation rentals and to reserve at least 45% for existing county residents. The decision came after roughly eight and a half hours of testimony, and after community groups sought unsuccessfully to intervene in the case.

Corporate requests for public records weigh on Vermont town officials

2026-02-27

Vermont’s towns are asking state lawmakers to adjust how the state handles public-records requests, after officials say a growing share of requests come from out-of-state companies that sell public information. Colchester deputy town manager Renae Marshall said the volume is straining towns’ limited time to respond under the Vermont Public Records Act.

NTSB chair says House bill doesn’t address its recommendations

2026-02-27

House members are considering an aviation-safety bill after a deadly midair collision near Washington last year, but the head of the National Transportation Safety Board said Thursday the House package is “watered-down” and does not match the NTSB’s recommendations. Jennifer Homendy, whose agency investigated the Jan. 29, 2025, crash that killed 67 people, said the bill’s locator-system requirements fall short of what she said is needed to prevent another tragedy.

Tennessee felony for officials voting for “sanctuary” policies ruled unconstitutional

2026-02-27

Nashville officials and metro council members reached an agreed order in a lawsuit challenging a Tennessee law that threatened local elected officials with felony charges for supporting “sanctuary” immigration policies. Nashville Chancellor Russell Perkins signed the order on Wednesday after Tennessee’s attorney general declined to defend the provision.

Uruguay and Argentina ratify EU-Mercosur free trade agreement

2026-02-27

Uruguay and Argentina ratified a free-trade agreement with the European Union, becoming the first two founding members of Mercosur to do so. Uruguay approved the pact in its lower house by a 91-2 vote, and Argentina’s Senate followed with a 69-3 vote.

Trump sells booming economy in State of the Union as polls stay gloomy

2026-02-26

President Donald Trump used his first State of the Union address to argue the economy is expanding, inflation is falling and jobs are rising. But fresh consumer-confidence and survey data released ahead of the speech—and other recent economic indicators—point to weaker public sentiment and lingering sticker-price pressure. The contrast left many Americans with a more guarded view than Trump’s “roaring” framing.

Trump won’t name Texas Senate primary pick yet as rivals court him

2026-02-26

President Donald Trump visited Corpus Christi, Texas, on Friday and said he was “pretty much” decided whom to endorse in the state’s March 3 Senate Republican primary, but he did not name his pick. Speaking in the coastal city, Trump praised each of the three contenders—Ken Paxton, John Cornyn and Rep. Wesley Hunt—while Democrats seized on economic and affordability issues ahead of the primary.

Iran pushes back against Trump ahead of Geneva nuclear talks

2026-02-26

Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman and Iran’s parliament speaker pushed back on U.S. President Donald Trump ahead of a new round of nuclear talks in Geneva, with one official calling Trump’s statements “big lies” while another said Iran could still reach an agreement through “honorable diplomacy.” The remarks came a day before the third round of talks, as the United States assembled its biggest Middle East deployment of aircraft and warships in decades.

FBI fires more agents who worked on Trump classified documents probe

2026-02-26

The FBI has fired additional agents who worked on an investigation into President Donald Trump, including employees who participated in the probe into his retention of classified documents, people familiar with the matter said Feb. 25. The firings are described as part of personnel changes under FBI Director Kash Patel, a Trump appointee, and come amid similar DOJ-wide dismissals of prosecutors since Trump took office.

Trump starts midterm message push after State of the Union trip to Texas

2026-02-26

President Donald Trump delivered his State of the Union on Tuesday, and the White House is now aiming to carry the speech’s themes—economic prosperity and a more secure America—into a midterm-year campaign. Trump plans to travel first to Texas, where he is expected to highlight the economy and energy policies ahead of March 3 congressional primaries.

Justice Department to review whether Epstein files were mistakenly withheld

2026-02-26

The Justice Department said it is reviewing whether it improperly withheld documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein, after news reports and lawmakers said some FBI interview summaries involving an allegation against President Donald Trump were missing from released records. In a post on X, the department said it will publish any responsive documents found to be withheld, consistent with a law requiring release.

Surgeon general nominee grilled over vaccines and qualifications

2026-02-26

Dr. Casey Means, a wellness influencer and entrepreneur, faced sharp questions from senators on Wednesday during a Senate health committee hearing on her nomination to become the next U.S. surgeon general. Means, 38, said during the hearing in Washington that the country should address chronic disease by focusing on shared root causes rather than “reactive sick care.”

Kansas law invalidates transgender driver's licenses and birth certificates

2026-02-26

Kansas is poised to invalidate approximately 1,700 driver's licenses and roughly 1,800 birth certificates held by transgender residents under a new law taking effect Thursday. The measure makes Kansas the first state to reverse previously approved gender identity changes in official documents.

Escondido residents protest ICE training at local gun range

2026-02-26

Residents in Escondido, California, have packed City Council meetings for weeks to protest a contract that allows U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers to train at a city police gun range, which they say they only recently learned about.

Fact check: Trump’s false and misleading State of the Union claims

2026-02-26

President Donald Trump made a series of false or misleading claims in his State of the Union address on Tuesday, according to an Associated Press fact check. The claims AP scrutinized ranged from the economy and jobs to immigration, tariffs, drug pricing and violent crime.

Texas Senate primary sees record spending by outside groups ahead of vote

2026-02-26

Ahead of Tuesday’s Texas primary elections for U.S. Senate, candidates and outside political groups have spent more than $110 million on advertising, setting a record for a Senate primary, an AdImpact ad-tracking analysis showed. The spending spree includes a final television ad from Democratic challenger James Talarico attacking the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement.

Trump’s State of the Union takeaways: economy pitch, patriotism, and rival attacks

2026-02-26

President Donald Trump used his State of the Union address to project an upbeat message about the economy while honoring the U.S. Olympic men’s hockey team and other recipients of medals. He then shifted to a sharper tone toward Democrats, raised his election integrity claims and discussed tariff and foreign-policy issues, including a warning about Iran.

Supreme Court rejects GEO Group appeal in Colorado forced-work suit

2026-02-26

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled against GEO Group, a private prison company, in a lawsuit brought by immigration detainees who alleged forced labor in Colorado. The justices declined to let GEO Group pursue a quick appeal of a lower-court decision, which the company had sought on the grounds it is immune from such suits as a government contractor, according to the Associated Press.

Federal protections end for lesser prairie chicken after court ruling

2026-02-26

The Trump administration has ended federal protections for the lesser prairie chicken, a ground-dwelling bird known for elaborate mating dances on the southern Great Plains. Thursday’s delisting by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service formalized a court ruling that found the species was listed improperly. The move ends Endangered Species Act protections that required energy developers and ranchers to reduce disruptions to habitat and mating areas called leks.

Trump asks Supreme Court to allow ending Syria TPS legal protections

2026-02-26

The Trump administration asked the U.S. Supreme Court to let it end temporary legal protections for Syrian migrants, as lawsuits challenge the move. The government wants the court to lift a New York judge’s order pausing the Department of Homeland Security decision while the cases proceed, and also seek a broader ruling affecting similar immigration cases.

Trump’s sit-or-stand challenge to Democrats draws backlash and praise

2026-02-26

President Donald Trump used a moment during his State of the Union address to invite House Democrats to stand up if they agreed that the government’s first duty was to protect American citizens rather than “illegal aliens,” leaving Democrats facing a dilemma. Republicans behind him stood and applauded, while most Democrats remained seated as Trump mocked those who did not. The exchange has since been seized upon by Trump allies and criticized by some Democratic and cable news figures as a stunt.

Supreme Court rules Postal Service can’t be sued over missing mail

2026-02-26

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that Americans cannot sue the Postal Service over missing or undelivered mail, even if employees intentionally refuse to deliver it. The 5-4 decision upheld a federal shield for the agency from a lawsuit brought by a Texas landlord who alleged her mail was deliberately withheld for years.

Judge blocks Trump ‘third country’ deportations to South Sudan

2026-02-26

A federal judge in Massachusetts ruled the Trump administration’s policy of deporting migrants to “third countries” where they have no ties is unlawful and must be set aside. U.S. District Judge Brian E. Murphy suspended the ruling for 15 days so the government can appeal, and said migrants must receive “meaningful notice” and an opportunity to object before removal. The case had already reached the U.S. Supreme Court, which last year paused a prior order involving a flight of migrants to war-torn South Sudan.

Prince Harry and Meghan visit refugee camp and hospital in Jordan

2026-02-26

Prince Harry and Meghan visited a refugee camp and a hospital in Jordan on Wednesday to spotlight organizations that help civilians affected by war and displacement. In Amman, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex met hospitalized children from Gaza and joined World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus for a roundtable with WHO regional leaders and humanitarian partners.

Bill and Hillary Clinton gear up for a Washington fight over Epstein probe

2026-02-26

Bill and Hillary Clinton are scheduled to testify Thursday and Friday in a House investigation into Jeffrey Epstein, as a Republican-led panel seeks to avoid a contempt fight that could be triggered if they refuse to cooperate. The subpoenas came after the Oversight Committee issued them last summer, and the case gained traction in December when the first batch of Epstein files was made public.

Trump uses State of the Union to defend foreign policy, Iran plans

2026-02-26

En su discurso del Estado de la Unión, el presidente Donald Trump se enfocó principalmente en asuntos internos, pero también delineó ante el público estadounidense por qué respalda sus esfuerzos de política exterior, en un momento en que crece el escepticismo sobre su prioridad “Estados Unidos primero”. Trump dijo que hará la paz cuando pueda, pero que no dudará en enfrentar amenazas contra Estados Unidos “donde sea necesario”. Además, destacó mediaciones para un alto el fuego en Gaza, el regreso de rehenes y la captura del líder venezolano Nicolás Maduro.

US imposes new sanctions on Iran ahead of nuclear talks in Geneva

2026-02-26

President Donald Trump’s administration imposed a new tranche of U.S. sanctions targeting people and companies accused of enabling Iran’s ballistic missile program, drone production and illicit oil sales. The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control said the sanctions against 30 people, companies and ships were announced ahead of talks scheduled for Thursday in Geneva between U.S. officials and Iranian negotiators through Oman.

Trump administration pauses some Medicaid funding to Minnesota over fraud concerns

2026-02-26

Vice President JD Vance announced the Trump administration will “temporarily halt” some Medicaid funding to Minnesota over fraud concerns, and said the federal government will hold payment of $259.5 million. Vance said the action is intended to ensure Minnesota “takes its obligations seriously to be good stewards of the American people’s tax money,” and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will review potential fraud in Medicaid and also take steps to target Medicare fraud.

Pentagon appeals order blocking punishment of Sen. Mark Kelly over video

2026-02-26

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is appealing a judge’s order blocking the Pentagon from punishing Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly for participating in a video that urged troops to resist unlawful orders, according to a court filing. U.S. Justice Department officials asked the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to review the Feb. 12 ruling by U.S. District Judge Richard Leon.

NASA moves Artemis II moon rocket back to hangar for more repairs

2026-02-26

NASA moved its grounded Artemis II moon rocket off the launch pad back to its hangar at Kennedy Space Center for more repairs Wednesday, the agency said. The 322-foot Space Launch System rocket had been on the pad for a potential March liftoff before helium pressurization problems led to a rollback. The delay pushes the Artemis II lunar fly-around with a U.S.-Canadian crew to at least April, NASA said.

Police chief accused of choking student during Pennsylvania immigration protest

2026-02-26

Lawyers for Quakertown high‑school protesters say the 72‑year‑old police chief who joined a scuffle with students in Pennsylvania choked a 15‑year‑old girl, and that the teens acted in self‑defense. The attorneys contend the chief, Scott McElree, entered the confrontation without identifying himself, leading to aggravated‑assault charges that they plan to contest.

Police investigate death of nearly blind Myanmar refugee after Border Patrol drop-off

2026-02-26

A nearly blind refugee from Myanmar who disappeared after U.S. Border Patrol agents dropped him off at a Buffalo doughnut shop was found dead five days later, prompting a police investigation and renewed scrutiny of how federal agents handle vulnerable people, according to authorities and advocates. Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan said the incident showed a “dereliction of duty,” while U.S. Customs and Border Protection defended the actions. Police said the county medical examiner ruled the death “health related,” a characterization the Erie County Department of Health later disputed.

AIPAC tests power in Illinois primary amid Democrats’ Israel debate

2026-02-26

AIPAC has reserved at least $1.9 million for ads through its affiliated super PAC in Illinois’s March 17 Democratic primary to replace retiring Rep. Danny Davis, as Democrats debate the future of the U.S.-Israel relationship. The spending arrives alongside criticism of “dark money” routes through groups that critics say are linked to AIPAC but have not yet disclosed funding sources, and as Democrats weigh how to talk about Israel and Gaza inside their primaries.

ProPublica talks AI contract terms as journalists debate disclosure rules

2026-02-26

ProPublica journalists and their union are negotiating the first contract in part over how the outlet should use artificial intelligence and what role humans should have, with the union saying it could lead to a strike. The dispute reflects wider industry pressure over AI error reporting, reader disclosure, and protections for jobs as newsrooms adopt tools to draft, summarize, transcribe, and assist reporting.

DHS official tells states ICE will not be at polling places in November

2026-02-26

A Department of Homeland Security official told state election administrators that immigration agents will not be stationed at polling places during November’s midterm elections, according to statements relayed to the Associated Press. The pledge was delivered in a call organized for federal agencies’ coordination and aimed at addressing Democrats’ concerns about possible election interference.

Instagram to alert parents if teens repeatedly search suicide-related terms

2026-02-26

Instagram said Thursday it will begin notifying parents through its parental supervision program if teens “repeatedly” search for terms clearly associated with suicide or self-harm. The company said it already blocks that content from appearing in teens’ search results and will route the alerts only to parents who are enrolled.

Massive budget shortfall shakes Georgia child welfare system

2026-02-26

Georgia’s child welfare agency is facing a projected $85.7 million budget shortfall, threatening services that help children reunify with families, supporters and providers said. The state’s Department of Human Services director Candice Broce cited steps taken in November to curb spending after “magnitude” needs outpaced resources.

Prosecutors charge Wisconsin legislator Sylvia Ortiz-Velez with disorderly conduct

2026-02-26

Prosecutors have charged Wisconsin state Rep. Sylvia Ortiz-Velez with disorderly conduct in connection with a feud over who helped draft resolutions honoring Hispanics last year, according to court filings. The charge is a misdemeanor that could bring up to 90 days in jail if she is convicted in Milwaukee County Circuit Court.

What to know if you’re worried about having a social media addiction

2026-02-26

Many adults say social media can be hard to put down, and some researchers and clinicians are studying whether that pattern fits “addiction.” In testimony tied to a social media harms trial in Los Angeles, psychiatrist Dr. Anna Lembke described social platforms as offering “24/7, really limitless, frictionless access.” Experts say the key question for adults is whether the time spent online is affecting work, chores, relationships and mood.

NYC Mayor Mamdani splits with police after snowball fight pelted officers

2026-02-26

Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he does not believe criminal charges are warranted after New York Police Department officers were hit with snowballs during a post-blizzard snowball fight in Washington Square Park. Police department leadership, including Commissioner Jessica Tisch, denounced the incident as “disgraceful” and “criminal,” and the department has circulated images while searching for four people it says hurt officers. The dispute has widened as the mayor and the NYPD take opposing views on how the incident should be handled.

No-parking zone expands near Nancy Guthrie’s home amid complaints

2026-02-26

PHOENIX — Pima County officials expanded a no-parking zone around the home of Nancy Guthrie in the Catalina Foothills outside Tucson, citing complaints from neighbors about congested roads, trespassing and trash left by journalists and social media streamers. The restrictions take effect Thursday, with authorities saying news crews and streamers can still access the area but must park elsewhere and be dropped off in the neighborhood.

Russian NK scholar says Latvia expelled him after detention in Riga

2026-02-26

Prominent Russian scholar of North Korea Andrei Lankov said he was expelled from Latvia after being detained in Riga while giving a lecture, then turned over to immigration authorities and taken toward the Estonia border. Kookmin University in South Korea, where he teaches, said it confirmed he had been released and was headed to Estonia.

FDA proposes new approval pathway for rare-disease customized therapies

2026-02-26

Federal health officials laid out a proposal Monday to create a new regulatory pathway for customized treatments for patients with rare, hard-to-treat diseases, including certain gene-editing therapies. The FDA said it would take public comments for 60 days before finalizing draft guidance.

Kim Jong Un says North Korea could destroy South if security threatened

2026-02-26

North Korea leader Kim Jong Un said his country could “completely destroy” South Korea if its security were threatened, state media reported Thursday. Kim made the remarks while closing a ruling party congress that laid out policy goals for the next five years, and he reiterated North Korea’s refusal to engage Seoul. He left open the possibility of dialogue with Washington, tying any talks to the United States dropping what North Korea calls “hostile policy” toward the North.

Montana judge dismisses TikTok ban after ownership change makes law moot

2026-02-26

A Montana judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging the state’s TikTok ban, saying the case became moot after the law’s ownership trigger was met. The ban, which began as the first statewide attempt to bar TikTok in the U.S., was paused in 2023 and later blocked again by the same judge before it could take effect.

Appeals court grills EPA, nonprofits over fate of Trump “green bank” contracts

2026-02-26

A federal appeals court on Tuesday grilled the Trump administration and nonprofits chosen to run a $20 billion “green bank” program over the termination of their contracts, questioning whether officials invented reasons to block the program and whether the nonprofits were demanding control of money that was not theirs. The case is before the full U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit after a three-judge panel last September agreed the administration had broad power to cancel the contracts.

Feds announce $26.5B loan for Georgia and Alabama utilities

2026-02-26

Federal energy officials announced a record $26.5 billion loan to electric utilities in Georgia and Alabama, saying the financing will cut long-term costs as companies expand capacity for electricity demand from computer data centers. The U.S. Energy Department said $22.4 billion will go to Georgia Power and $4.1 billion to Alabama Power, subsidiaries of Southern Company.

Newsom book tour stirs criticism over comments on race, “culturally normal”

2026-02-26

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s national book tour for “Young Man in a Hurry” has drawn criticism from conservatives who said his remarks about dyslexia and academics were racist and from LGBTQ+ lawmakers who object to his calls for Democrats to be more “culturally normal.” The AP reported that the disputes followed Newsom’s Sunday comments during an Atlanta event with Mayor Andre Dickens and his interview with CNN earlier this week.

Discord delays global age verification rollout after criticism

2026-02-26

Discord is postponing its global rollout of age verification after backlash from users who raised concerns about privacy and how biometric and ID data would be handled. In a Tuesday blog post, Chief Technology Officer and co-founder Stanislav Vishnevskiy said the company “missed the mark” and pushed the global expansion to the second half of 2026.

Discord postpones global age verification rollout after privacy backlash

2026-02-26

Discord is delaying its global age-verification rollout to the second half of 2026 after criticism from users who said the policy could expose personal data, the company said. Chief Technology Officer and co-founder Stanislav Vishnevskiy said in a blog post on Feb. 25 that Discord “missed the mark” and will change the initial approach it announced in early February.

Lawyers say China helped get U.S. charges dropped against Michigan scientists

2026-02-26

Defense lawyers said China’s government intervened to help get charges dropped against three Chinese scientists at the University of Michigan who were accused of helping a colleague smuggle biological materials into the United States. A federal judge dismissed the case on Feb. 5 at the Justice Department’s request, lawyers said.

Abogados buscan bloquear política de CBP que empuja a menores a autodeportarse

2026-02-26

Defensores legales presentaron una moción para frenar una política de la Oficina de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza (CBP) que, según dicen, presiona a menores migrantes no acompañados a regresar voluntariamente a sus países. La solicitud fue presentada el martes en el sur de Texas, y busca impedir que la CBP aplique la práctica a niños guatemaltecos y ampliar la protección a otros países, con excepción de México y Canadá.

Battleground Arizona GOP primary tests Trump-aligned future

2026-02-26

Arizona Republicans are heading toward a July primary that pits U.S. Rep. Andy Biggs, backed by President Donald Trump and Turning Point USA, against U.S. Rep. David Schweikert, a budget hawk who argues seeking Trump’s endorsement isn’t necessary. The winner will face Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs in Arizona’s general election.

Larry Summers to resign from Harvard amid review of Epstein ties

2026-02-26

Harvard said Larry Summers will resign from teaching at the end of the academic year while the university reviews his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The announcement followed the release of millions of pages of U.S. Justice Department records reviewed by The Associated Press, which included references to Summers in Epstein-related files.

RFK Jr. backs U.S. pesticide production after years opposing glyphosate

2026-02-26

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., now a top U.S. health official, publicly endorsed a Trump executive order aimed at boosting glyphosate production, a herbicide ingredient he previously criticized for years as an environmental lawyer. In a statement posted Sunday evening, Kennedy called pesticides “toxic by design” but said the order would bring agricultural chemical production back to the United States and reduce reliance on adversarial nations.

Sri Lanka’s Buddhist monks protest in Colombo over state role in religion

2026-02-26

Hundreds of Buddhist monks rallied in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Friday to protest what they described as government disrespect toward their religion and disregard for a tradition that clergy be consulted in state affairs. The monks said they would deliver an appeal note to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, and the protest passed without reported violence.

Trump highlights border drop in State of the Union amid enforcement fallout

2026-02-26

President Donald Trump told Congress that the U.S. southern border is secure and said that “zero illegal aliens have been admitted to the United States” in the past nine months. The Associated Press reported that Trump’s return to office in January 2025 has coincided with declines in border arrests, a rise in ICE arrests, and changes that affect detention and asylum outcomes. The AP also said Trump mentioned little of enforcement fallout in places such as Minneapolis and Chicago, where residents have protested federal officer tactics.

Trump’s pick to lead new DOJ fraud unit faces scrutiny over oversight

2026-02-26

President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead a new Justice Department fraud division said he would pursue prosecutions “without fear or favor,” as questions surfaced about how the unit will operate amid a White House-declared “war on fraud.” The proposed National Fraud Enforcement Division would create another channel to investigate fraud, even though the department already handles fraud cases through its Criminal Division.

Appeals court lets Harris County keep immigrant legal aid program

2026-02-26

A Texas appeals court ruled on Feb. 25 that Harris County can continue funding legal aid for undocumented immigrants, rejecting Attorney General Ken Paxton’s effort to shut down the program. The 15th Court of Appeals said Paxton did not provide evidence that the county’s grants harmed residents and said the state failed to explain why providing counsel to indigent people facing deportation is unconstitutional.

House rejects ROTOR Act requiring ADS-B In locator systems after crash

2026-02-25

The U.S. House on Tuesday rejected the ROTOR Act, a bill designed to require aircraft operating around busy airports to use additional locator technology to prevent midair collisions, such as the January 2025 crash near Washington, D.C. House and Senate leaders said they will keep working on a broader aviation-safety package, but the House vote underscored a dispute over whether the final bill should mandate “ADS-B In” systems that can help provide pilots with detailed traffic information.

What to know about Defense Production Act and Pentagon’s Anthropic ultimatum

2026-02-25

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Anthropic this week that it must open its artificial intelligence technology for unrestricted military use or risk losing its U.S. government contract by Friday, according to the Associated Press. The Pentagon also warned it could designate Anthropic as a supply-chain risk and invoke a Cold War-era law, the Defense Production Act, to expand military authority over the company’s products.

FBI fires more agents who worked on Trump classified documents probes

2026-02-25

The FBI has fired additional agents who worked on investigations involving President Donald Trump, AP reported, including personnel who participated in the Mar-a-Lago classified documents probe. The firings come amid a wider personnel overhaul under FBI Director Kash Patel, and people familiar with the matter told AP that 10 or more employees were terminated. An agents’ association condemned the move as unlawful and said it would endanger national security.

Hawaii lawmakers advance bills that would shrink cruise green-fee funding

2026-02-25

Hawaii lawmakers have advanced bills that would remove cruise ships from a statewide green fee and replace the charges with an about $10-per-passenger fee, a change state projections show could reduce climate-related funding by millions. The move comes as the cruise industry challenges the green fee in federal appeals court, with oral arguments in a Cruise Lines International case scheduled for April.

Ontario’s Doug Ford says Supreme Court tariffs ruling tightens Trump

2026-02-25

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said Monday that “the walls are closing in” on President Donald Trump after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down much of Trump’s tariff program and said Trump is looking ahead to the November midterms. Ford warned Canada is in an “economic war” and said “no deal is better than a bad deal” with Trump, as he pointed to impacts on sectors including aluminum, steel, autos and lumber.

Trump’s record State of the Union leans on economy pitch ahead of midterms

2026-02-25

President Donald Trump delivered a record 108-minute State of the Union on Tuesday, telling lawmakers “we’re winning so much” and arguing the United States is surging at home while he is reshaping the world order abroad. The marathon address came as Trump’s political support has faced pressure heading into November’s midterm elections, and he used surprise guest moments—most notably the Olympic champion U.S. men’s hockey team—to punctuate his message.

Trump administration asks Supreme Court to end Syrian migrants' legal protections

2026-02-25

The Justice Department on Thursday asked the U.S. Supreme Court to lift a New York judge’s order and allow the Trump administration to end temporary protected status for about 6,100 Syrian migrants living in the United States. The request follows a decision by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to revoke the protections, arguing that the conflict in Syria no longer meets the criteria for TPS. A response to the administration’s emergency appeal is due March 4.

Supreme Court rejects GEO Group bid to hasten appeal in forced-work suit

2026-02-25

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled against private prison company GEO Group in a procedural dispute over a lawsuit alleging immigration detainees in Colorado were forced to work and paid about $1 a day. The ruling means the case can proceed only after other steps in the lower court process, not via the quick appeal GEO sought.

Federal protections end for lesser prairie chicken after court ruling

2026-02-25

The Trump administration ended federal protections for the lesser prairie chicken, a ground-dwelling bird known for elaborate mating dances on the southern Great Plains. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finalized the delisting Thursday, formalizing a federal court ruling that found the species was listed improperly. The decision strips away Endangered Species Act requirements aimed at avoiding harm to the bird’s habitat, including mating areas called leks.

Wesley Hunt faces attacks from Cornyn, Paxton in Texas GOP Senate primary

2026-02-25

Wesley Hunt, a U.S. representative from Texas, is facing increased attacks from Sen. John Cornyn and state Attorney General Ken Paxton ahead of Tuesday’s Republican primary for U.S. Senate. Hunt said the rising criticism is aimed at a threat he poses to their paths to the nomination.

Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales refuses to resign amid affair allegations

2026-02-25

U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales on Tuesday resisted growing calls from fellow congressional Republicans to resign over allegations of an affair with a former staffer who later died after setting herself on fire. Gonzales told reporters he would not step down, saying there will be “opportunities for all of the details and facts to come out,” as House Speaker Mike Johnson said he would speak with him.

CIA posts Farsi tips for Iran informants as Trump weighs strikes

2026-02-25

The CIA posted Farsi-language instructions on how to contact the agency securely, as President Donald Trump weighs possible military strikes against Iran. The recruitment pitch appeared on X, Instagram and YouTube and included guidance such as using a VPN and disposable devices.

State Department orders nonessential U.S. diplomats to leave Lebanon

2026-02-25

The State Department ordered nonessential U.S. diplomats and their family members at the U.S. Embassy in Beirut to depart Lebanon as security tensions tied to Iran increased, the department said. The department said personnel who remain will face restricted travel in-country. The move came as U.S. and Iranian officials prepare for another round of nuclear talks in Geneva and President Donald Trump weighed military options.

Trump makes the case for his foreign policy at State of the Union

2026-02-25

President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday tilted mainly toward domestic policy, while also laying out his foreign-policy priorities—ranging from a fragile Gaza ceasefire and hostage returns to a harder posture toward Iran and renewed pressure on NATO allies. Trump warned of confronting threats “wherever we must” as polls show Americans remain uneasy about his handling of foreign affairs.

Trump administration sues UCLA over antisemitism allegations

2026-02-25

The U.S. Justice Department sued the University of California, Los Angeles, alleging it failed to protect Jewish employees from antisemitic harassment during pro-Palestinian protests in 2023 and 2024. The federal complaint, filed in California, focuses on allegations that UCLA did not discipline people involved in protests that included an encampment and arrests in 2024.

Trump administration sues New Jersey over limits on ICE arrests

2026-02-25

The Trump administration sued New Jersey in federal court in Trenton on Monday, challenging a state order that bars federal immigration agents from making arrests in certain nonpublic areas of state property. The Justice Department lawsuit targets Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s Feb. 11 executive order, and New Jersey’s acting attorney general said the state will fight the case.

Court says IRS can share immigrants’ taxpayer data with ICE

2026-02-25

A federal appeals court in Washington, D.C., rejected a bid by an immigrant rights group to pause a tax-data sharing agreement between the IRS and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The court declined to block the IRS from sharing certain names and addresses that could help identify people in the country illegally.

Cross-country services for Rev. Jesse Jackson begin in Chicago

2026-02-25

Mourners streamed through a Chicago auditorium Thursday to pay final respects to the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. as cross-country memorial services began in the city the longtime civil rights leader called home. Jackson’s family said he will lie in repose for two days at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition headquarters in Chicago before services in Washington, D.C., and South Carolina.

Attorneys seek to halt CBP policy pressuring unaccompanied children to self-deport

2026-02-25

Legal advocates filed a motion on Tuesday seeking to stop U.S. Customs and Border Protection from urging some unaccompanied immigrant children—entering the country without parents—to voluntarily deport themselves under a policy introduced last year. The advocates said the approach, which they say began in September 2025, would undercut access to immigration procedures and expand detention threats, legal advocates wrote in court filings in McAllen, Texas.

DHS official says ICE agents will not be at polling places in midterms

2026-02-25

A Department of Homeland Security official told state election administrators that federal immigration agents will not be stationed at polling locations during the November midterm elections. Deputy assistant secretary Heather Honey made the pledge during a coordination call that included other federal agencies, according to statements shared by officials in Arizona, Oregon and Kentucky.

Instagram to notify parents when teens repeatedly search suicide-related terms

2026-02-25

Instagram said Thursday it will begin alerting parents in cases where teens “repeatedly” search for terms clearly associated with suicide or self-harm. The alerts will go only to parents enrolled in the company’s parental supervision program, and Instagram said it already blocks the content from showing up in teen accounts’ search results while directing people to helplines.

U.S. embassy to offer consular passport services in West Bank settlement

2026-02-25

The U.S. embassy in Jerusalem plans to offer consular services for the first time at an Israeli settlement in the occupied West Bank, starting with routine passport assistance in Efrat on Friday. The embassy said the outreach will expand to the Israeli settlement of Beitar Illit in coming months as part of efforts to reach Americans.

Venezuela says 3,200 released under amnesty law; rights group disputes

2026-02-25

Venezuela’s National Assembly-appointed commission said more than 3,200 people have been fully released since an amnesty law took effect four days ago, following the capture of then-President Nicolás Maduro on Jan. 3. Lawmaker Jorge Arreaza said the government has received 4,203 applications for the program and that 3,052 people previously under house arrest or other restrictive measures and 179 people in prison were granted full freedom.

Telegram founder Pavel Durov faces Russian inquiry after criticism

2026-02-25

Pavel Durov, the founder of the Telegram messaging app, said Russia opened a criminal investigation against him on charges of “aiding terrorism.” Durov said the case was fabricated to restrict access to Telegram and to limit “privacy and free speech.”

Quakertown residents demand police chief resignation after student scuffle

2026-02-25

PHILADELPHIA—Residents in the Philadelphia-area community of Quakertown are calling for the police chief’s resignation after a scuffle with high school students protesting immigration enforcement policies, including footage showing the police chief grabbing a teenage girl’s neck. Bucks County District Attorney Joe Khan said his office is investigating the incident.

Spanberger contrasts Trump’s “golden age” as Democrats sharpen affordability

2026-02-25

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger delivered the Democrats’ response to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union on Feb. 24, arguing that costs remain high for many Americans more than a year into his second term. Speaking from Colonial Williamsburg, she said Democrats are focusing on affordability and safety ahead of November’s midterm elections.

ICE officer training 'deficient,' former agency lawyer tells Congress

2026-02-24

A former U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement lawyer told congressional Democrats on Monday that the agency's training program for deportation officers is "deficient, defective and broken," directly contradicting the Department of Homeland Security's assertion that recruits receive full preparation. Ryan Schwank, who managed the agency's officer training until resigning on Feb. 13, testified that the training has been dismantled and compressed far below what DHS publicly claims.

Supreme Court tariff ruling leaves Trump trade policy uncertain

2026-02-24

The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling against President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs means the administration cannot impose new import taxes under the emergency law it relied on “on a whim,” attorneys and trade analysts said. But the decision is unlikely to end the uncertainty that has disrupted business planning, as Trump has already moved to other legal authorities and the refund process for duties collected remains unclear.

Canada approves Gulfstream jets after Trump tariff threat

2026-02-24

Canada's transport regulator approved Gulfstream's latest business jets on Monday, ending a trade dispute with President Donald Trump that threatened to ground all Canadian-made aircraft. Transport Canada certified the G700 and G800 models weeks after Trump threatened to decertify Canadian aircraft and impose a 50 percent tariff unless the country approved the planes made by Gulfstream Aerospace, a subsidiary of General Dynamics.

Carney tours India, Australia, Japan to diversify Canadian trade from U.S.

2026-02-24

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is embarking on a tour of India, Australia, and Japan to reduce Canada's economic reliance on the United States, his office announced. The three-country trip comes amid escalating tensions with President Donald Trump, who has threatened 100% tariffs against Canada and claimed the nation could become an American state.

Cabinet officer kept from State of the Union as designated survivor fail-safe

2026-02-24

Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins appeared to be President Donald Trump's pick as designated survivor for the State of the Union address Tuesday night, kept away from the Capitol to ensure government continuity if a catastrophic event killed federal leadership gathered for the event. The White House did not immediately confirm Collins's selection.

EU fails to pass Russian sanctions after Hungary blocks vote

2026-02-24

The European Union failed Monday to pass new sanctions targeting Russia after Hungary unexpectedly blocked the measure on the eve of the fourth anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine. The blockade threatens Ukraine's access to a 90 billion euro ($106 billion) loan intended to fund its military and economic needs for the next two years, as foreign ministers sought to finalize both packages ahead of the Feb. 24, 2022 invasion's anniversary on Tuesday.

Trump delivers State of the Union to Congress increasingly sidelined by his power

2026-02-24

President Donald Trump will deliver the 2026 State of the Union address to Congress on Tuesday, addressing a nation transformed by his expansive executive agenda. The moment comes as constitutional scholars warn that Trump's accumulation of power through hundreds of executive actions and administrative orders has effectively sidelined Congress, which has largely accommodated his priorities rather than asserting its legislative authority.

US ambassador defends visa bans on 3 Chilean officials over China cable

2026-02-24

The U.S. ambassador to Chile on Monday defended visa restrictions imposed on three high-ranking Chilean officials, characterizing them as a "sovereign decision" in response to activities the United States says threatened regional security. Ambassador Brandon Judd's defense came after the Trump administration announced the travel bans, citing the officials' alleged involvement in a proposed submarine fiber optic cable project linking Chile with China. The restrictions have sparked a sharp rebuke from Chile's left-wing government.

Patrick seeks to block Camp Mystic summer reopening pending flood inquiry

2026-02-24

Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick urged the state to block Camp Mystic's summer reopening Monday, saying it would be "naive" to allow the troubled youth camp to resume normal operations before a full investigation into last July's flood deaths. Twenty-eight people died in the disaster — 25 campers, two counselors, and the camp's executive director — according to lawsuits filed the same day. "It would be naive to allow Camp Mystic to return to normal operations before all of the facts are known," Patrick wrote in a letter to Department of State Health Services Commissioner Jennifer Shuford. "Camp Mystic should have decided on their own to suspend operations this coming summer, but it appears they are planning for camp in 2026."

States sue Trump administration over vaccine rollback

2026-02-24

More than a dozen states sued the Trump administration on Tuesday over its rollback of childhood vaccine recommendations, calling the move an illegal threat to public health. The states argued that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention put children's lives at risk when it announced in January that it would stop recommending all children be immunized against the flu, rotavirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, some forms of meningitis, and RSV. Under the new guidance, protections against those diseases are now recommended only for certain groups deemed high-risk or when doctors recommend them through what is called "shared decision-making."

Judge bars government from “wholesale” search of Post reporter’s seized devices

2026-02-24

Federal authorities are barred from conducting an “unsupervised, wholesale search” of devices seized from Washington Post reporter Hannah Natanson’s home in Virginia during a classified-leaks investigation, a U.S. magistrate judge ruled Tuesday. Magistrate Judge William Porter said he will personally review the contents of Natanson’s devices rather than allowing a Justice Department “filter team” search.

Caribbean leaders confront U.S. over military strikes and Cuba policy

2026-02-24

Caribbean leaders convened Tuesday in St. Kitts and Nevis for a four-day summit focused on the region's strained relationship with the United States. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet with the group Wednesday as the Caribbean Community — a 15-member trade bloc known as CARICOM — seeks to present a unified position on escalating tensions, including U.S. military operations that have killed at least 151 people since September.

Trump backs newcomer over former congresswoman in Texas primary

2026-02-24

Mayra Flores, a former Republican congresswoman from Texas' Rio Grande Valley, is fighting to reclaim a House seat in a March 3 primary, but she faces a well-funded Trump-backed rival who has emerged as the frontrunner. Eric Flores, a lawyer and former federal prosecutor, received President Donald Trump's endorsement in December—a move that shifted the race's dynamics and prompted a better-funded candidate to drop out and back him. Flores won a special election in 2022 to become the first Republican in more than 150 years to represent the Rio Grande Valley. Though she lost two subsequent races, her 2022 victory proved that Republicans could compete for working-class Hispanic voters in a region once considered safely Democratic.

Trump's hospital-ship claim for Greenland undermined by facts

2026-02-24

President Donald Trump announced Saturday he would send a hospital ship to Greenland, saying many residents are sick and not receiving adequate care. But the claim lacks factual foundation, according to an Associated Press fact-check: both U.S. Navy hospital ships were undergoing maintenance in Alabama at the time of his announcement, and there have been no reports of major illnesses in Greenland.

US ambassador to France defuses diplomatic spat with Paris

2026-02-24

The U.S. ambassador to France worked Tuesday to resolve a diplomatic row with Paris, telephoning Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot after missing a scheduled government meeting. Ambassador Charles Kushner and Barrot agreed to meet in coming days, according to Kushner's office.

'Abolish ICE' wins Chicago's snowplow-naming contest

2026-02-24

Chicago voters selected "Abolish ICE" as the winning name in the city's annual snowplow-naming contest, turning a municipal tradition into a political statement about the Trump administration's immigration enforcement. The name carries a double meaning: both a reference to removing snow and a protest slogan against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

FBI director joins hockey celebration amid scrutiny over government travel

2026-02-24

Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Kash Patel joined the U.S. men's hockey team in their locker room Sunday after they won the Olympic gold medal in Milan, videos of the moment show. In footage circulating online, Patel drank from a bottle of beer and sprayed beer around the locker room while the athletes celebrated. After one player draped his gold medal around Patel's neck, he jumped up and down with the team. The celebration drew swift criticism from those questioning whether Patel's use of a government plane to travel to Milan represents an appropriate use of federal resources.

Former Prince Andrew and UK ex-ambassador arrested in Epstein misconduct probe

2026-02-24

Prince Andrew and Peter Mandelson, the U.K.'s former ambassador to Washington, were arrested within days of each other for investigation into misconduct in public office related to their ties to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Neither has been charged. Documents released by the U.S. government suggest both had close connections to Epstein and may have shared sensitive information with him.

Peter Mandelson arrested in Epstein-linked misconduct inquiry

2026-02-24

Former British ambassador Peter Mandelson was arrested Monday at his London home on suspicion of misconduct in public office linked to his relationship with late financier Jeffrey Epstein. His arrest has intensified pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who appointed him to the diplomatic post despite warnings about his friendship with the convicted sex offender. The arrest came four days after former Prince Andrew was taken into custody on similar suspicions, among the most dramatic consequences of more than 3 million pages of Epstein-related documents released last month by the U.S. Justice Department.

Utah judge rejects bid to disqualify prosecutors in Kirk case

2026-02-24

A Utah judge on Tuesday rejected a defense motion to disqualify prosecutors in the case of Tyler Robinson, 22, accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The defense had argued that Deputy Utah County Attorney Chad Grunander posed a conflict of interest because his adult daughter was in the audience when Kirk was shot at an outdoor rally on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem on September 10.

Josh Shapiro says antisemitism is “a very real problem” in both parties

2026-02-23

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said antisemitism is “a very real problem” in both major U.S. parties, while urging leaders to call it out regardless of political affiliation. In an interview, Shapiro also discussed how he thinks about political violence and threats, tying his response to his Jewish faith.

Judge bars release of Jack Smith's classified documents report

2026-02-23

A federal judge on Monday permanently barred the release of special counsel Jack Smith's report on his investigation into President Donald Trump's handling of classified documents, blocking public scrutiny of a prosecution that once stood as the most perilous of four criminal cases against the Republican. Judge Aileen Cannon, who was nominated to the bench by Trump, granted the president's request to keep the report sealed. Smith's investigations produced indictments that were abandoned after Trump's 2024 election victory, citing Justice Department legal opinions prohibiting prosecution of sitting presidents.

Supreme Court tariff ruling leaves trade policy uncertainty for businesses

2026-02-23

The U.S. Supreme Court ruling against President Donald Trump’s most sweeping tariffs removes the administration’s ability to create new import taxes under the emergency-powers law at issue, but trade lawyers say uncertainty is likely to persist for importers and trade partners. Businesses face open questions about what legal authorities could replace the struck-down tariff regime, how refunds will work, and whether Trump’s leverage-based trade deals will survive the fallout.

What to watch for in Trump’s State of the Union address as midterms loom

2026-02-23

President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday will function as a test of the message Republicans hope to deliver to voters ahead of November elections for control of the House and Senate, the Associated Press reported. The address comes as Americans express low approval of Trump’s economic and immigration leadership and after the Supreme Court struck down parts of his tariff authority, AP said.

EU pauses trade-deal ratification as Trump imposes 15% global tariff

2026-02-23

The European Parliament's trade committee postponed a ratification vote on its trade deal with the United States on Monday, seeking clarification on how President Donald Trump's newly announced 15% global import tariff would affect the agreement. Trump declared the tariff after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down his use of emergency powers to set new import taxes, and the European Union said the new rate would break the deal's agreed ceiling of 15% on most European goods.

Supreme Court strikes down Trump tariffs; Trump plans 15% replacement

2026-02-23

The Supreme Court struck down President Trump's sweeping tariffs on Friday, but financial markets greeted the decision with restraint as the Trump administration moved swiftly to impose a new 15% global import tax under alternative legal authority. The ruling cast doubt on whether the administration's recently negotiated trade deals would survive the shift to new legal grounds, leaving trading partners including China and South Korea uncertain about the stability of commerce with the United States.

Woman adopted by U.S. war veteran faces deportation to Iran

2026-02-23

The Trump administration has ordered an American woman adopted from Iran as a toddler to appear for removal proceedings, according to a Department of Homeland Security letter described by the Associated Press. The woman says the government’s action could mean a death sentence because she is a Christian and Iran is dangerous for Christians.

Federal court rejects GOP bid to block Utah redistricting

2026-02-23

A federal court on Monday rejected a Republican effort to block a new congressional map that improves Democrats' chances of winning a U.S. House seat in Utah. The three-judge federal panel denied a preliminary injunction request and ruled the new districts can be used in this year's election, marking the second recent setback for Republicans who currently hold all four of Utah's House seats.

Police use Google searches to find suspects, courts weigh privacy costs

2026-02-23

Criminal investigators seeking suspects in difficult cases are asking Google to reveal who searched for specific information online, a practice known as reverse keyword warrants that Pennsylvania's highest court upheld in late 2025 in a rape investigation. The technique identifies internet addresses where searches were made for particular terms—such as a street address where a crime occurred or phrases like "pipe bomb"—in a specific time window, then works backward to find suspects. While law enforcement has used the method to investigate bombings in Texas, the assassination of a Brazilian politician, and a fatal arson in Colorado, privacy advocates warn it turns innocent people into suspects by exposing their personal search histories.

Gunmen kill at least 7 in rural Ecuador attack

2026-02-23

Armed men disguised as soldiers killed at least seven people when they stormed a rural property in Ecuador's Manabi province early Monday morning, police said. The attackers fired bullets at the victims, including three adult brothers, according to authorities. The assault marks the latest in a wave of drug-related violence that has pushed Ecuador's homicide rate to historic levels.

Mexican military kills Jalisco cartel leader El Mencho, sparks violence

2026-02-23

Mexican soldiers killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, in a shootout Sunday in the town of Tapalpa. His death triggered a surge in violence across Mexico, with cartel gunmen blocking more than 250 roads across 20 states and setting fire to vehicles. More than 70 people died in the operation and its aftermath, authorities said Monday.

Panama seizes key canal ports from Hong Kong operator following court ruling

2026-02-23

Panama's government seized two major ports at the Panama Canal on Monday following a Supreme Court ruling that declared a decades-old concession unconstitutional, the Hong Kong-based operator said. The Panama Maritime Authority occupied the Balboa and Cristóbal terminals, which control access to one of the world's most critical shipping routes, after government officials arrived and threatened criminal prosecution if the company did not comply. The move is the culmination of a broader dispute over control of the canal that has become entangled in U.S.-China rivalry. The operator, CK Hutchison, was in the process of selling the ports to a consortium including U.S. investment firm BlackRock when China intervened to block the deal.

Families sue Texas over Camp Mystic evacuation rule failure

2026-02-23

Families of nine Camp Mystic flood victims filed a federal lawsuit against six Texas Department of State Health Services officials Monday, seeking damages for what they allege was a failure to enforce state law requiring youth camps to have evacuation plans. The state licensed Camp Mystic knowing it lacked an adequate evacuation plan, the suit alleges. The camp's emergency instructions directed children to stay in their cabins during floods, contrary to Texas regulations requiring youth camps to develop disaster evacuation procedures. Twenty-seven Camp Mystic staff members and campers died when heavy rain sent the Guadalupe River flooding into the historic Hill Country camp on July 4, 2025.

Education Department transfers grant programs to HHS and State

2026-02-23

The Education Department announced new agreements transferring grant programs to the Health and Human Services Department and the State Department, the latest step in the Trump administration's strategy to reshape federal education policy through the redistribution of functions to other agencies. Education Secretary Linda McMahon framed the moves as progress toward the administration's stated goal of reducing the department's role.

Mexican army kills Jalisco cartel leader El Mencho

2026-02-23

The Mexican army killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and one of the world's most wanted drug traffickers, during an operation Sunday in Jalisco state. Defense Secretary Ricardo Trevilla said the killing marked the government's most significant victory against organized crime in more than a decade. Cartel gunmen responded with violence across Mexico, torching cars and blocking roads in 20 states.

Rubio to visit St. Kitts to reassert U.S. focus on Western Hemisphere

2026-02-23

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to St. Kitts and Nevis this week for a one-day trip aimed at keeping the Western Hemisphere at the center of U.S. policy, the State Department said. The visit comes about a month after a U.S. military operation removed then-Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power, as U.S. attention also sharpens on Iran.

As antisemitism rises, Josh Shapiro leans on Jewish faith

2026-02-23

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro told attendees of BBYO, the Jewish youth group conference, that he leans on his Jewish faith as antisemitism and conflict over Israel continue. In an interview with The Associated Press, Shapiro said antisemitism is “a very real problem” across political parties and that his family faces new incidents on a regular basis.

Bloomberg Philanthropies names 24 Mayors Challenge winners using AI, residents

2026-02-23

Bloomberg Philanthropies announced 24 winners of its 2026 Mayors Challenge on Tuesday, with mayors in cities including South Bend, Indiana, and Beira, Mozambique, pitching projects that use artificial intelligence and resident input to improve services. Each winner will receive $1 million to implement its initiative, along with support from Bloomberg Philanthropies experts, the organization said.

Proposed Kauai housing project divides historic Kōloa town

2026-02-23

A developer has proposed a 148-unit housing project for Kōloa, a historic rural town on Kauai's South Shore, sparking a community debate over local affordability and preservation. The Kauai Planning Commission is set to hear the proposal again on Tuesday after requesting more community outreach. Residents and community groups remain divided over whether the project will help locals struggling with housing costs or damage the town's character.

Vermont cuts moose hunting permits as winter ticks devastate herds

2026-02-23

Vermont's Fish and Wildlife Department is reducing moose hunting permits by more than half this year, from nearly 180 to 85, in response to a parasite outbreak that kills calves and weakens adults. The cuts are concentrated in the Northeast Kingdom, where winter ticks—which can infest a single moose by the tens of thousands—have become a serious threat. As climate change shortens Vermont's winters, ticks have gained a longer window to attach to moose in fall and survive through spring, intensifying their ecological impact.

Jackson's body to lie in state in South Carolina

2026-02-23

The body of Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., a civil rights leader who died last week, will lie in state Monday at the South Carolina Statehouse, Gov. Henry McMaster announced. Jackson, 84, died Feb. 17 after battling a rare neurological disorder that impaired his movement and speech.

Maine policymakers address electricity crisis as winter cold drives costs soaring

2026-02-23

Maine policymakers convened this month to address an electricity affordability crisis triggered by a record winter cold snap and historic natural gas prices. On Jan. 27, natural gas prices on the New England grid hit their highest level since tracking began in 2003, driving wholesale electricity prices to $441.8 per megawatt-hour—more than three times the January 2025 average of $135.08 per megawatt-hour. The surge prompted urgent discussions among state leaders about how to modernize Maine's aging electrical grid and reduce reliance on natural gas for peak demand. Philip Bartlett II, chairman of the Maine Public Utilities Commission, described the situation as a crisis of affordability. "The biggest challenge we're facing right now is affordability," Bartlett said at a Feb. 5 legislative forum hosted by the nonprofit E2Tech in Augusta.

California's heat pump push faces high electricity cost barrier

2026-02-23

California aims to install six million heat pumps by 2030 as part of an ambitious climate strategy, but the state's soaring residential electricity prices—among the nation's highest and rising faster than inflation—threaten to undermine that goal. A Harvard University study finds that while heat pumps would save typical households money in the southern United States and Pacific Northwest, California presents a mixed picture where many homeowners would face higher monthly bills by switching from gas furnaces.

California allocates $35 million to aid immigrants amid Trump deportations

2026-02-23

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Friday that California will allocate $35 million in state funding to help immigrant families facing the Trump administration's deportation efforts. The money, set aside by the state Legislature in the budget, will connect immigrant families with food assistance, legal services, and other basic needs, according to Kim Johnson, secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency.

Family suing Kamehameha Schools seeks anonymity over threats

2026-02-23

A white family suing Kamehameha Schools over its Native Hawaiian admissions policy is seeking to keep their identities hidden throughout the lawsuit, citing online death threats and fears that public identification could damage their careers and educational prospects. The request comes as the case has generated intense backlash, with threats of violence directed at the lead attorney and the nonprofit organization backing the suit.

Citizen journalists mine newly released Epstein documents

2026-02-23

Hundreds of citizen journalists are scouring the Justice Department's release of millions of pages related to Jeffrey Epstein's networks, working alongside professional newsrooms to identify connections the sheer volume has made difficult to process alone. The documents, released on January 30, have generated major news stories and prompted some resignations, but the magnitude of the cache has drawn amateur researchers seeking to spot patterns and details that larger institutions may miss.

Former UK ambassador released on bail in Epstein information probe

2026-02-23

Peter Mandelson, the former British ambassador to the United States, was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office and then released on bail, according to Metropolitan Police. The 72-year-old is suspected of passing sensitive government information to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein more than a decade ago. Mandelson does not face allegations of sexual misconduct.

Josh Shapiro says antisemitism is a problem on left and right

2026-02-22

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, in an interview published Monday, said antisemitism is “a very real problem” in both the Democratic and Republican parties and urged leaders to call it out regardless of political side. Speaking to Associated Press reporter Steve Peoples, Shapiro also described how the April 13, 2025, attack on his home left him with “emotional scars” and said he has faced rising threats tied to his faith.

Arab and Muslim nations condemn US ambassador's remarks on Israel

2026-02-22

U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee's remarks that Israel has a right to much of the Middle East sparked condemnation Sunday from 15 Arab and Muslim countries, which called his comments "dangerous and inflammatory." Huckabee said in a Friday interview with conservative commentator Tucker Carlson that "It would be fine if they took it all," in response to Carlson's reference to biblical passages suggesting descendants of Abraham would receive land including parts of modern-day Jordan, Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon. The U.S. Embassy said Sunday that Huckabee's comments were taken out of context and that there is no change to U.S. policies on Israel.

Never Trump Republicans convene with sparse turnout, no sitting GOP support

2026-02-22

Never Trump Republicans gathered outside Washington on Saturday and Sunday for their sixth annual summit, but the half-empty convention hall in National Harbor, Maryland and the absence of any sitting Republican officials signaled the movement's dwindling influence within the GOP. Attendees at the Principles First conference warned that President Trump and his allies are dismantling American democracy. Not a single current Republican elected official participated in the two-day event.

What to watch for in Trump's State of the Union address

2026-02-22

President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address Tuesday is set to test the messaging Republicans plan to use to win skeptical voters ahead of November’s midterm elections for control of the House and Senate. The address comes as public support lags on the economy and immigration and after the Supreme Court last week struck down key parts of Trump’s sweeping tariffs.

Trump dinner with governors ends after Supreme Court tariff ruling

2026-02-22

President Donald Trump’s annual dinner with governors at the White House ended shortly after he learned of the Supreme Court decision striking down his sweeping tariff policy, closing a week marked by disputes over which governors would attend. The dinner on Saturday in Washington featured Republican governors and top administration officials, while Democrats were not seen in the room.

Supreme Court ruling reshapes US-China trade talks ahead of Trump-Xi summit

2026-02-22

The Supreme Court's decision striking down President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs has created new uncertainty in U.S.-China trade relations. Both countries are navigating shifting ground ahead of Trump's scheduled March 31 through April 2 visit to Beijing, where he is set to meet with President Xi Jinping. Analysts say the ruling strengthens China's negotiating hand, but predict Beijing will be cautious in exploiting the advantage, knowing that Trump has other legal authorities for imposing tariffs. Both countries want to maintain a fragile trade truce and stabilize ties ahead of the summit.

EU demands US honor trade commitments after court strikes down Trump tariffs

2026-02-22

The European Union demanded the United States honor its trade commitments on Saturday after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down some of President Donald Trump's most sweeping tariffs. The European Commission said the current situation undermines fair and balanced commerce between the world's largest trading partners and creates uncertainty that weakens global stability. "A deal is a deal," the European Commission said in a statement. "As the United States' largest trading partner, the EU expects the U.S. to honor its commitments set out in the Joint Statement — just as the EU stands by its commitments."

Pentagon and Energy Dept. airlift microreactor to Utah as nuclear push speeds up

2026-02-22

In a demonstration flight, the Pentagon and the Department of Energy airlifted a nearly 700-mile microreactor from California to Utah, the first time the military has transported a small nuclear reactor for evaluation. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Undersecretary of Defense Michael Duffey traveled with the privately built reactor on a C-17 after a Feb. 15 trip aimed at accelerating licensing and deployment for military and civilian needs.

Armed man shot after breaching Mar-a-Lago secure perimeter

2026-02-22

An armed man breached the secure perimeter of Mar-a-Lago early Sunday morning and was shot and killed by Secret Service agents and a Palm Beach County sheriff's deputy, according to federal authorities. President Donald Trump was not at the resort when the incident occurred around 1:30 a.m.

Ukraine war marks 4 years with peace prospects bleak despite US push

2026-02-22

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine has now lasted 1,418 days—longer than the Soviet Union's military campaign against Nazi Germany in World War II. Despite the extended duration, Moscow's advance has slowed to what NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte called "the speed of a garden snail," with Russian troops moving only about 50 kilometers into the Donetsk region over the past two years. Mediation efforts led by the Trump administration face sharp disagreements over terms, with Russia demanding territorial gains and other concessions Ukraine has rejected.

Gay asylum-seeker deported to Cameroon despite U.S. judge's protection order

2026-02-22

A 21-year-old gay woman from Morocco was deported to Cameroon in February 2026 despite an explicit protection order from a U.S. immigration judge. Farah, identified by first name only for her safety, said she was handcuffed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents three days before a scheduled hearing on her release and flown to a country where homosexuality is illegal and punishable by up to three years in prison.

New Mexico lawmakers approve investigation into forced sterilization of Native women

2026-02-22

New Mexico lawmakers have approved an investigation into forced and coerced sterilizations of Native American women in the 1970s and how the practice has continued to affect families, according to a measure passed this week. The investigation will be carried out by the state Indian Affairs Department and the Commission on the Status of Women, with findings expected for the governor by the end of 2027.

Rubio to visit St. Kitts for CARICOM summit amid West Hemisphere focus

2026-02-22

Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans a one-day trip to St. Kitts and Nevis this week to take part in a Caribbean Community summit, a State Department statement said. The visit comes about a month after a U.S. operation removed then-Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power, as the administration shifts attention between the Middle East and the Western Hemisphere.

As antisemitism rises, Josh Shapiro turns toward his Jewish faith

2026-02-22

In a speech to Jewish teen leaders at BBYO in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said he leans on his faith as antisemitism rises and the Israel-Hamas war divides politics in the United States. Shapiro, who observes Shabbat and keeps kosher, also described dealing with new incidents of antisemitism and said he will not “live in fear” or “back down.”

Scott Wiener wins California Democratic endorsement for Pelosi House bid

2026-02-22

California state Senator Scott Wiener secured the California Democratic Party's endorsement Sunday for his campaign to succeed Nancy Pelosi in the U.S. House. The endorsement provides significant momentum in a competitive primary for a San Francisco seat that has been a Democratic stronghold for decades. Wiener, who has spent 15 years in city and state politics, is known for advancing contentious legislation on housing and LGBTQ+ protections. His candidacy has been shadowed by controversy over his recent shift on describing Israel's military operations in Gaza as genocide.

Homeland Security suspends Global Entry during shutdown

2026-02-22

The Department of Homeland Security suspended the Global Entry program on Sunday as a partial government shutdown that began Feb. 14 entered its second week. The agency initially announced suspension of both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck but reversed the PreCheck closure hours later, keeping the security-line program operational. Global Entry, which allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to use expedited kiosks when entering the United States from abroad, is used by millions of Americans.

Trump offers hospital ship to Greenland; leaders decline

2026-02-22

President Trump announced he would deploy a hospital ship to Greenland on Saturday, alleging that many people in the Arctic territory are sick and not receiving adequate care. But Greenland's prime minister and Denmark's government swiftly rejected the offer, saying the region already has a functioning public healthcare system that provides free treatment to all citizens.

Venezuela releases 16 prisoners as government claims hundreds more

2026-02-22

Venezuela released 16 political prisoners verified by a local rights group, but the government said it was processing 1,557 applications under a new amnesty law and that hundreds of people were already being freed. The releases announced Sunday represent the first confirmed group freed since acting President Delcy Rodríguez signed the amnesty measure Thursday, following the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro in a U.S. military operation last month.

Mexican army kills Jalisco cartel leader El Mencho in major operation

2026-02-22

The Mexican army killed the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel on Sunday after an operation to capture him in Jalisco state, the Defense Department said. Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," was wounded during the military operation in Tapalpa on February 22 and died while being transported to Mexico City, authorities said. The operation marked a major victory for the Trump administration's push to crack down on drug trafficking from Mexico to the United States. The White House said it provided intelligence support for the operation.

Businesses brace for uncertain trade policy after Supreme Court tariff ruling

2026-02-21

The Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump's tariffs Friday, ruling 6-3 that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act did not give the president authority to impose import taxes — a power that belongs to Congress. Within hours, Trump announced plans to impose a 10% tariff on all imports for 150 days and said he would explore other legal mechanisms to restore the duties. The ruling left businesses across industries facing what they described as a prolonged period of uncertainty.

Trump raises tariffs to 15% despite Supreme Court ruling

2026-02-21

President Donald Trump announced Saturday that he intends to raise global tariffs to 15%, escalating his trade policy following a Supreme Court decision Friday that struck down his emergency-powers tariff authority in a 6-3 ruling. Trump said he would implement the new tariffs using an alternative legal authority through an executive order that bypasses Congress. The Supreme Court ruled that the president lacked constitutional authority to unilaterally impose tariffs because the power to tax rests exclusively with Congress. Trump's original announcement of a 10% tariff rate is set to take effect Tuesday, the same day as his State of the Union address.

Trump administration staffed with election conspiracy promoters

2026-02-21

President Donald Trump has stocked his administration with people who promoted his false 2020 election conspiracy theories, according to the Associated Press. The appointments include lawyer Kurt Olsen, who pushed the Justice Department to back Trump's claims about the election and now leads a sweeping probe of the 2020 vote, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, who helped Trump attempt to overturn his loss to Democrat Joe Biden.

US commercial driver’s license tests must be taken in English

2026-02-21

US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced Friday that the Trump administration will require all truck and bus drivers to take commercial driver’s license tests in English as part of a safety crackdown. Duffy said the changes aim to ensure drivers can read road signs and communicate with law enforcement during traffic stops and inspections.

ICE quietly buys warehouses for detention center expansion

2026-02-21

The Department of Homeland Security has secretly purchased at least seven warehouses across Arizona, Georgia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Texas for immigration detention centers, spending $122.8 million on a single 826,000-square-foot facility in Socorro, Texas. Local officials say they learned about the purchases only after deed filings or news reports — with no federal notification before the deals closed.

After Supreme Court voids Trump tariffs, $133 billion refund puzzle looms

2026-02-21

The Supreme Court on Friday struck down President Donald Trump's emergency tariffs in a 6-3 decision that invalidated $133 billion in import taxes already collected. But the justices left the government and importers facing a far more complicated challenge: determining how to return the money now deemed unlawfully taken. The Court ruled that Trump's invocation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA) did not authorize the tariffs. The law grants no authority to tax imports, the justices said — that power belongs to Congress. Two justices appointed by Trump, including Justice Amy Coney Barrett, joined the majority.

Trump approves disaster aid for DC sewage spill into Potomac

2026-02-21

President Trump approved emergency federal assistance to Washington, D.C., on Saturday to help address a sewage leak that dumped 250 million gallons of raw sewage into the Potomac River. The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced Trump's approval after D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser requested federal help and declared an emergency following the Jan. 19 rupture of a 72-inch underground pipeline known as the Potomac Interceptor.

Supreme Court blocks Trump tariffs; Trump announces 15% import tax

2026-02-21

The Supreme Court ruled Friday that Congress, not the president, holds the power to levy taxes on imports, striking down a significant portion of President Donald Trump's global tariff regime. But by Saturday morning, Trump announced a new 15% global import tax under a law that has never been invoked in this manner before.

Trade officials scramble after Supreme Court strikes down Trump tariffs

2026-02-21

The U.S. Supreme Court struck down the Trump administration's sweeping global tariffs Saturday, prompting trade officials across the world to assess the fallout. President Donald Trump announced a new 10% executive tariff Friday and said Saturday morning he would raise it to 15%. The ruling marked the latest reversal in 13 months of tariff volatility since Trump returned to office.

Trump announces new tariffs after Supreme Court strikes down global rates

2026-02-21

Governments and companies worldwide scrambled Saturday to navigate a Supreme Court ruling that struck down some of President Trump's sweeping global tariffs — only to face an immediate complication: Trump announced he would reimpose them at higher rates. The ruling struck down tariffs Trump had imposed since taking office 13 months ago using emergency powers. Trump signed an executive order Friday imposing a 10% tariff on certain goods and announced Saturday morning he would raise that rate to 15%. The whiplash has sent officials and business leaders from Seoul to São Paulo into an urgent reassessment of their tariff exposure and trade strategy.

White House dinner ends governors’ dispute over attendance in DC

2026-02-21

President Donald Trump’s White House dinner with governors on Saturday ended a contentious week that included disputes over invitations and a surprise cancellation of earlier access for some Democrats. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey said the president had “made this whole thing a farce,” as no Democrats were spotted at the black-tie event, according to the Associated Press. Meanwhile, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore called the National Governors Association meeting a success despite attempts to distract governors.

Pentagon and Energy airlift microreactor to Utah as nuclear push accelerates

2026-02-21

The Pentagon and the Energy Department for the first time airlifted a small nuclear reactor from California to Utah, demonstrating what they say is the U.S. potential to quickly deploy nuclear power for military and civilian use. The nearly 700-mile flight last weekend carried a 5-megawatt microreactor without nuclear fuel from March Air Reserve Base to Hill Air Force Base, according to officials who traveled with the project.

Colbert controversy boosts money and attention in Texas Senate primary

2026-02-21

Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett on Thursday urged supporters to focus on experience in a heated March 3 U.S. Senate primary against state Rep. James Talarico, after a Stephen Colbert interview was pulled from CBS air. Colbert said CBS lawyers warned the show against broadcasting the interview amid concerns tied to Trump administration regulators, and the episode helped drive scrutiny and fundraising for Talarico.

JPMorgan Chase admits closing Trump's accounts after Capitol riot

2026-02-21

JPMorgan Chase acknowledged for the first time in writing that it closed President Donald Trump's bank accounts in February 2021, according to a court filing submitted this week in his ongoing lawsuit against the bank and its leader, Jamie Dimon. Trump is seeking $5 billion, alleging the closures were motivated by political retaliation for his role in the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack.

New Mexico to investigate forced sterilization of Native women

2026-02-21

New Mexico legislators have approved an investigation into forced and coerced sterilizations of Native American women tied to the U.S. Indian Health Service, with findings due to the governor by the end of 2027. The effort will be led by the state Indian Affairs Department and the Commission on the Status of Women, after a history that advocates say has left lasting harm for generations. The AP’s Savannah Peters reports.

FDA drug approvals: Makary and Prasad say one study will be enough

2026-02-21

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to drop its long-standing requirement that new drugs and other novel health products prove their benefits with two rigorous studies, opting instead for a “default position” of one study going forward. FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary and Dr. Vinay Prasad, a top deputy, laid out the change in a Wednesday New England Journal of Medicine piece aimed at speeding access to some medical products.

Audit finds flaws in FAA oversight of United Airlines maintenance

2026-02-21

The U.S. Transportation Department’s inspector general said the Federal Aviation Administration lacks sufficient staffing and workforce planning to oversee United Airlines maintenance, according to an audit released Friday. The review also faulted how the FAA conducted some inspections “virtually” when it lacked resources to review United aircraft on site. The FAA said it agreed with most recommendations and was taking steps to address them by the end of the year.

Justice Department fires lawyer named by judges as Virginia U.S. attorney

2026-02-21

The U.S. Justice Department fired James Hundley on Friday after judges had unanimously chosen him to replace Lindsey Halligan as interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, according to the Justice Department and the court-driven appointment process described in a report. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said Hundley was fired in a post on X shortly after the judge selection.

Police search Royal Lodge after Prince Andrew arrest; succession law eyed

2026-02-21

British police again searched the former home of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on Friday, a day after he was arrested and held in custody for nearly 11 hours on suspicion of misconduct involving confidential trade information. The investigation is separate from allegations related to Jeffrey Epstein’s sex abuse, and prosecutors will decide whether to bring charges.

Federal agent killed Texas man during 2025 traffic stop, records show

2026-02-21

A 23-year-old Texas man was fatally shot by a federal immigration agent during a traffic control operation on South Padre Island in March 2025, according to documents released Friday by the Department of Homeland Security. The shooting of Ruben Ray Martinez had been reported by local media at the time, but the involvement of a federal Homeland Security Investigations agent was not disclosed until The Associated Press reported on the newly released records.

ICE purchases warehouses nationwide for expanded detention capacity

2026-02-21

Immigration and Customs Enforcement has purchased warehouses in more than 20 towns across the United States as part of a $45 billion expansion of detention capacity. In many cases, local officials were not notified until after deals were completed. Some warehouse owners have refused to finalize sales after learning of ICE's intended use.

Venezuela begins releasing political prisoners under amnesty law

2026-02-21

Venezuelan authorities said Saturday that at least 1,557 people detained for political reasons have submitted applications under an amnesty law signed this week, with hundreds already being released. The amnesty marks a reversal for Venezuelan authorities, who have long denied holding any political prisoners. The measure follows the January capture of then-President Nicolás Maduro in a U.S. military raid.

Trump’s White House ballroom gets approval from fine arts commission

2026-02-20

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, whose seven members were appointed by President Donald Trump, on Thursday approved Trump’s proposal to build a ballroom on the site of the former White House East Wing, according to the commission’s meeting. The project still faces review by the National Capital Planning Commission and legal challenges, with a lawsuit by the National Trust for Historic Preservation seeking to halt construction.

Trump visits Georgia as Republicans seek midterm boost amid election claims

2026-02-20

President Donald Trump visited Georgia on Thursday, a state he has targeted with false claims that the 2020 election was stolen, as Republicans sought momentum ahead of the 2026 midterms. In opening comments at a local restaurant and later during remarks at a steel company, Trump raised debunked allegations of voter fraud, discussed requiring voter identification, and praised an FBI raid tied to Fulton County election offices.

Trump plans alternative tariffs after Supreme Court ruling

2026-02-20

The U.S. Supreme Court struck down President Trump's global tariff authority Friday in a 6-3 decision, marking a rare institutional check on a president who has wielded tariff power aggressively throughout his second term. Trump immediately vowed to impose new import taxes through alternative legal means, saying the ruling would bring "great certainty" to the economy even as it raised urgent questions about the future of his tariff strategy.

Trump eyes alternative tariff authorities after Supreme Court rejection

2026-02-20

President Donald Trump said Friday that the Supreme Court's rejection of his global tariff authority does not constrain his ability to impose import duties on foreign goods. Trump announced he will immediately pursue a 10% global tariff under a trade law allowing duties for 150 days and directed his administration to initiate investigations under other statutes that could permit substantial tariffs with fewer procedural constraints.

Saudi uranium enrichment possible in proposed US nuclear deal

2026-02-20

A proposed nuclear cooperation agreement between the United States and Saudi Arabia could allow the kingdom to develop uranium enrichment capabilities, congressional documents and arms control experts warn, raising proliferation concerns as tensions between the United States and Iran escalate over Tehran's nuclear program. The proposed agreement, potentially worth billions of dollars, would establish safeguard agreements with the International Atomic Energy Agency. But within those safeguards lies a potential path to uranium enrichment technology for Saudi Arabia.

NGA pulls out of White House meeting after Trump excludes two Democrats

2026-02-20

The National Governors Association said it is pulling out of an annual White House meeting after President Donald Trump declined to invite Democratic governors Jared Polis of Colorado and Wes Moore of Maryland. Trump still planned to meet with governors at the White House on Friday, but the meeting would not be facilitated by the NGA.

Trump EPA ends climate health “endangerment” finding; experts warn of uneven harms

2026-02-20

The Trump administration’s revocation of a scientific finding that climate change endangers public health is likely to hit communities of color and low-income areas hardest, public health experts said. In Louisiana’s “Cancer Alley,” where residents live near extensive fossil fuel and petrochemical facilities, residents and advocates said the change could mean more illness and higher death rates, with lawsuits challenging the rollback filed in federal court.

White House dinner ends turbulent week for governors despite no Democrats

2026-02-20

The White House governors dinner closed a turbulent week for state leaders in Washington, with President Donald Trump excluding Democrats from a Friday working event and later moving on after learning the Supreme Court struck down his tariff policy. No Democrats were spotted at the Saturday black-tie dinner, according to the Associated Press, even after Gov. Wes Moore of Maryland attended the earlier meeting.

Supreme Court voids Trump tariffs as Wall Street posts modest gains

2026-02-20

The Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs on Friday, removing a policy that had sent investors scrambling last year. The S&P 500 rose 0.7%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 230 points or 0.5%, and the Nasdaq composite rose 0.9%, closing at 22,886.07. Analysts said many investors had already anticipated the ruling, leading to a muted response across financial markets.

Trump attacks justices over Supreme Court tariff defeat

2026-02-20

President Donald Trump attacked six Supreme Court justices Friday after they struck down his global tariffs imposed under an emergency powers law. Trump directed particular criticism at Justices Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett, both appointed by him, saying their votes represented "an embarrassment to their families."

Supreme Court strikes down Trump's tariffs

2026-02-20

The Supreme Court struck down President Trump's sweeping tariffs Friday in a 6-3 ruling that dealt a significant defeat to a cornerstone of his economic agenda. The court found that Trump's attempt to invoke the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act to justify the levies exceeded his constitutional authority, with the justices noting that Congress, not the president, holds the power to impose tariffs.

Supreme Court strikes down Trump's global tariffs

2026-02-20

The Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump's sweeping global tariffs on Friday in a 6-3 decision, finding that the president violated the Constitution by unilaterally imposing duties without Congressional authority. The ruling prompted Trump to attack the justices he appointed as "disloyal" and to pledge new tariffs under a different law.

Florida Senate approves renaming airport after Trump

2026-02-20

Florida lawmakers this week approved renaming the international airport in West Palm Beach after President Donald Trump, just days after the Trump family company filed to trademark the use of the president's name on airports. The legislation, which passed the Florida Senate on Thursday, awaits the signature of Gov. Ron DeSantis. If signed and approved by the Federal Aviation Administration, the Palm Beach International Airport will become the President Donald J. Trump International Airport in July.

Fourth-quarter GDP growth slows to 1.4% as shutdown drags economy

2026-02-20

U.S. economic growth slowed sharply in the fourth quarter, expanding at a 1.4% annual rate according to the Commerce Department, down dramatically from the 4.4% pace in the third quarter. A six-week federal government shutdown shaved roughly one percentage point from growth, while consumers pulled back on spending after months of borrowing to maintain their purchasing power.

Republicans ask Supreme Court to stop new voting maps in NYC

2026-02-20

Republicans asked the U.S. Supreme Court on Feb. 19 to stop New York’s redistricting commission from redrawing the boundaries of the only U.S. House seat in New York City held by Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. The request follows a Thursday decision by a New York appeals court that cleared the way for new maps after a state judge tossed out the previous district boundaries. Malliotakis said the Supreme Court has been “unequivocal” that “race-based redistricting violates the U.S. Constitution.”

Democrats urge Census to drop citizenship question from 2026 practice

2026-02-20

Congressional Democrats urged the Census Bureau to remove a citizenship question from a 2026 practice test that would use the American Community Survey, warning it could deter immigrants from participating. The on-the-ground tests in Huntsville, Alabama, and Spartanburg, South Carolina, are scheduled to begin next month, congressional Democrats said.

Federal judge slams Trump immigration crackdown in scathing ruling

2026-02-20

A federal judge on Wednesday sharply criticized the Trump administration’s approach to immigrant detention and deportations, saying the government is violating the law and due process. In a ruling by Judge Sunshine Sykes in Riverside, California, the judge ordered the Homeland Security Department to notify many detained immigrants they may be eligible for bond and to give them access to a phone to call an attorney within an hour.

Pentagon airlifts microreactor as Trump pushes fast-track nuclear deployment

2026-02-20

HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah — The Pentagon and the Energy Department for the first time airlifted a small nuclear reactor from California to Utah, marking what they said is a test of the U.S. ability to quickly deploy nuclear power for military and civilian use. The nearly 700-mile flight on Feb. 15 carried a 5-megawatt microreactor without nuclear fuel, with Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Undersecretary of Defense Michael Duffey traveling with the privately built unit.

Spanberger to deliver Democratic response to Trump’s State of the Union next week

2026-02-20

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger will deliver the Democratic response to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address next week, the Associated Press reported Friday. Spanberger, who became Virginia’s first female governor earlier this year, will speak as Democrats try to sharpen their midterm message after winning her state office.

Trump orders Pentagon to identify and release UFO and alien files

2026-02-20

President Donald Trump said Thursday he is directing the Pentagon and other U.S. agencies to identify and release files related to extraterrestrials and UFOs, citing “tremendous interest.” Trump said on Air Force One that he does not know whether aliens are real, and added that he may “get [former President Barack Obama] out of trouble” by declassifying related material.

Midterm House campaigns proceed amid ongoing redistricting disputes

2026-02-20

Primary elections have already taken place in Texas and North Carolina for newly redrawn House districts, yet a nationwide redistricting battle continues to reshape congressional boundaries in multiple states even as full midterm campaigns are underway. Final district boundaries remain uncertain in Missouri and Virginia, where court decisions and legal challenges could alter voting districts before the November elections. The redistricting efforts were triggered last summer when President Donald Trump urged Texas Republicans to redraw House districts to give the Republican Party an advantage in the midterm elections. California's Democratic leaders responded with their own redistricting effort, setting off a tit-for-tat clash that has spread across the country. Republicans believe they could gain as many as nine additional House seats from their redistricting efforts, while Democrats anticipate they could gain six seats in other states. Democrats need to gain only a few seats to win control of the House, which currently has a Republican majority. However, partisan projections carry uncertainty. Trump faces negative approval ratings in polls, and the party in power historically loses seats in midterm elections—factors that could affect voting patterns in November.

Five European nations plan joint air defense using Ukrainian drone technology

2026-02-20

Five European nations announced Friday a joint program to develop low-cost air defense systems and autonomous drones using battle-tested technology from Ukraine's four-year war with Russia. The E5 group — France, Poland, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Italy — signed an agreement to jointly invest in what the group calls the Low-Cost Autonomous Effectors and Platforms (LEAP) program, aimed at strengthening Europe's defense against Russian drone incursions.

Colleges cut ties with PhD Project after Trump administration pressure

2026-02-20

Colleges and universities across the U.S. have cut ties with the nonprofit The PhD Project after the U.S. Department of Education opened a civil-rights investigation, the department’s Office for Civil Rights said Thursday. The department said the nonprofit “unlawfully limits eligibility based on the race of participants” and that institutions partnering with it violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

HUD proposes rule to require citizenship or eligible status in public housing

2026-02-20

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on Thursday proposed a rule that would limit HUD-funded public housing to citizens and eligible noncitizens, requiring residents to show proof of citizenship or eligibility. Housing advocates warned the proposal could lead to tens of thousands of evictions, including for mixed-status families where some household members are eligible.

EPA loosens mercury emission standards for coal-fired power plants

2026-02-20

The Environmental Protection Agency on Friday weakened limits on mercury and other toxic emissions from coal-fired power plants, continuing the Trump administration's effort to reduce environmental protections on fossil fuels. The agency announced the move at the Mill Creek Generating Station, a coal plant along the Ohio River in Louisville, Kentucky, saying it would save the industry hundreds of millions of dollars.

Trump backs 10-year deadline to replace lead pipes

2026-02-20

The Trump administration said Friday it backs a 10-year deadline for replacing lead pipes across the country, supporting one of the strongest drinking water standards in three decades. The Environmental Protection Agency told a federal appeals court it will defend the strict rule against a legal challenge by a utility industry association.

Appeals court pauses slavery exhibit work in Philadelphia

2026-02-20

A U.S. appeals court on Friday allowed the Trump administration to halt work on a slavery exhibit at Philadelphia's President's House on Independence Mall, blocking implementation of a lower court order to restore it. The decision pauses a disputed effort to display information about slavery during the founding era as the city prepares for the nation's 250th anniversary.

Speaker denies Capitol honor for Rev. Jesse Jackson

2026-02-20

Speaker Mike Johnson's office has denied a request from the family of the late Rev. Jesse Jackson to have his remains lie in honor in the United States Capitol Rotunda, citing precedent that the space is typically reserved for former presidents, military members and select officials. Jackson, the pioneering civil rights leader whose two presidential campaigns transformed American politics for generations, died this week at age 84.

Zambian court fight leaves Edgar Lungu’s body unburied for months

2026-02-20

The body of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has remained in a South African funeral home for more than eight months after his June 5, 2025, death, as a dispute over funeral plans pits his family against the longtime rival who succeeded him, President Hakainde Hichilema. Zambia’s authorities and courts have repeatedly sided with the government’s position in a case tied to Lungu’s reported last wishes, the Associated Press reported Feb. 20.

Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos announces retirement at end of year

2026-02-20

Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, a longtime Republican leader who has reshaped much of the state’s conservative agenda for more than a decade, said Thursday he will retire at the end of the year. Vos, 57, made the announcement from the Assembly floor, saying he expects Democrats to be “happy that I’m gone” and adding, “You’re going to miss me.”

Wisconsin expands postpartum Medicaid for up to a year, blocks Arkansas

2026-02-20

Madison, Wisconsin lawmakers on Thursday passed a bill expanding Medicaid coverage for new mothers for up to a year after giving birth, setting up Democratic Gov. Tony Evers to sign it next week. The bill would leave Arkansas as the only state not to offer expanded postpartum Medicaid benefits.

New Mexico enshrines universal child care program into law

2026-02-20

New Mexico lawmakers have approved a universal child care program that aims to fully cover the cost of child care for working families across income levels, Republican opponents and budget concerns notwithstanding. The plan, announced under Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, leaves lawmakers room to use copayments if finances deteriorate.

Women’s sports media grows at Milan Cortina, leaders say

2026-02-20

Women’s sports media outlets are expanding rapidly as the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics put more attention on athletes competing in sports long covered less heavily. Christine Brennan, Sarah Spain, and others described how newer outlets and women-led coverage are changing what gets reported and how audiences find it.

Federal judge dismisses ex-NYPD commissioner’s lawsuit targeting Eric Adams

2026-02-20

A federal judge dismissed a racketeering lawsuit filed by Thomas Donlon, the former interim NYPD commissioner, that accused Mayor Eric Adams and his top deputies of running the police department as a “criminal enterprise.” Judge Denise Cote said the complaint did not describe the defendants acting with “a common purpose.” City Law Department spokespersons said the dismissal left “no legal basis” for the case to continue.

New Mexico to investigate forced sterilization of Native women

2026-02-20

New Mexico lawmakers approved a measure this week to investigate forced and coerced sterilizations of Native American women by the Indian Health Service and other providers. The state Indian Affairs Department and the Commission on the Status of Women are expected to deliver findings to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham by the end of 2027.

EEOC sues Coca-Cola bottler over excluding men from women’s forum

2026-02-20

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has sued a Coca-Cola bottler in New Hampshire court, alleging sex discrimination after the company excluded men from a company-sponsored networking trip for women at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. The agency, which says it tried and failed to reach a conciliation agreement, filed the case on behalf of a male employee and seeks monetary compensation for a class of men. Coca-Cola Northeast disputes the EEOC’s account and says it looks forward to presenting its case in court.

Trump banner displayed on Justice Department headquarters

2026-02-20

Washington’s U.S. Department of Justice building displayed a large banner featuring President Donald Trump’s face on Thursday, an act prosecutors and critics said symbolizes political pressure on the law-enforcement agency. The banner’s slogan, “Make America Safe Again,” echoed the administration’s messaging on immigration enforcement and violent crime, while DOJ said it is celebrating the department’s 250-year history.

US judge sets Friday deadline for Trump to restore slavery exhibit

2026-02-20

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — A federal judge in Philadelphia set a Friday deadline for the Trump administration to restore an exhibit on the nine people enslaved by George Washington at his former home on Independence Mall. Senior U.S. District Judge Cynthia Rufe issued the deadline Wednesday while the Justice Department appealed her earlier order to reinstate the display.

Lead detected in 7 of 10 New Orleans homes; replacement delayed until 2027

2026-02-20

Lead was detected in seven of ten homes tested on a single block of New Orleans' Upper Ninth Ward, according to a water quality investigation by Verite News and the Associated Press. Testing data from the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans shows that 70 percent of more than 1,100 households tested between 2022 and 2025 contained lead in their drinking water. The water utility predicts that between 50 percent and 60 percent of its 150,000 service lines will eventually require replacement to address the contamination.

South Carolina officer acquitted in unarmed man's shooting death

2026-02-20

A South Carolina jury found police officer Cassandra Dollard not guilty Friday of voluntary manslaughter in the shooting death of Robert Junior Langley, an unarmed man who was attempting to exit his wrecked car after a high-speed chase in February 2022. Dollard faced two to 30 years in prison if convicted. Dashboard camera footage captured the moments before the shooting as Langley's head and chest emerged from the damaged vehicle.

Nevada prison overtime costs hit $18M in quarter as staffing crisis deepens

2026-02-20

Nevada's prison system paid more than $18 million in overtime from July through September 2025, the highest quarterly amount in at least two years, according to data presented to state lawmakers Thursday. The payout represented a $7 million increase from the prior three months and continued a spending pattern that created a $53 million agency deficit the previous year. Correctional officers union leaders attributed the surge to severe understaffing across state facilities.

Former New Haven police chief arrested for $85,000 theft

2026-02-20

Karl Jacobson, 56, the former police chief in New Haven, Connecticut, was arrested Friday on larceny charges following allegations he stole $85,000 from two department accounts. Jacobson, who abruptly retired in January, turned himself in on an arrest warrant and was later released on a court-set bond of $150,000, according to the state prosecutor's office. He faces two counts of larceny related to defrauding a public community.

Vermont students fall short on math, reading proficiency, state report shows

2026-02-20

A majority of Vermont's public school students are falling short of state proficiency goals in math and English language arts, according to the Vermont State Report Card released Thursday. The report, the state education agency's annual assessment of student and school performance, found fewer than 60% of students in every grade level meet proficiency standards in ELA, while fewer than 50% are proficient in math.

Virginia Democrats pass map aiming to flip 4 House seats

2026-02-20

Virginia Democrats on Friday passed a new congressional redistricting map designed to help their party win four additional U.S. House seats in the 2026 midterm elections. A judge's order has blocked the planned voter referendum, and Democrats are appealing to move forward with a timeline that requires a favorable court ruling within two weeks.

Venezuela signs amnesty law amid skepticism from opposition

2026-02-20

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez signed an amnesty law on Thursday, marking a major policy shift following last month's U.S. military raid that captured then-President Nicolás Maduro. The law is expected to free hundreds of political activists and human rights defenders detained during the government's 27-year tenure. But the measure drew a muted reception from opposition members, prisoners' rights groups, and families of those still detained, who said the amnesty falls short of demands and excludes some of those most in need of release. Military members are notably excluded from the measure.

Melania Trump donates 2025 inaugural gown to Smithsonian

2026-02-20

Melania Trump donated her white and black-trimmed inaugural ball gown to the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History on Friday, continuing a longstanding tradition of first ladies preserving their formal wear for the public record. The strapless sheath gown, designed by Herve Pierre and paired with a reproduction Harry Winston diamond brooch, joins the museum's First Ladies Collection.

Texas congressman denies blackmail claim over alleged affair with deceased staffer

2026-02-20

Texas congressman Tony Gonzales on Thursday denied being "blackmailed" following a report that he allegedly had an affair with a former staffer who died after setting herself on fire in 2025. The married Republican, running for reelection in the state's March 3 primary, claimed on social media that the deceased woman's husband was seeking money through a potential lawsuit.

Federal agent fatally shot Texas man during traffic stop, documents show

2026-02-20

A federal immigration agent fatally shot a U.S. citizen on South Padre Island, Texas on March 15, 2025, newly released documents show. The Department of Homeland Security did not publicly disclose the death of Ruben Ray Martinez, 23, until this week. DHS said the driver intentionally struck the agent, but a state investigator indicated video evidence contradicted that account.

Trials test whether social media companies deliberately harmed children

2026-02-20

Trials are now underway against Meta, YouTube and other social media platforms over allegations that they deliberately designed addictive features and failed to protect children from sexual predators and harmful content. The lawsuits, filed in Los Angeles, New Mexico and other jurisdictions, represent the largest legal reckoning yet with the tech industry over its effects on minors' mental health — a comparison plaintiffs draw to tobacco and opioid litigation. Meta Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg testified in the Los Angeles trial on Wednesday.

South Korean ex-president Yoon sentenced to life for rebellion

2026-02-20

A Seoul court sentenced former President Yoon Suk Yeol to life in prison on Feb. 20 after finding him guilty of orchestrating a rebellion through his declaration of martial law in December 2024. The verdict concluded a trial that exposed deep political divisions in South Korea and marked the end of Yoon's political career.

Syria's al-Hol camp nearly empty after repatriation of Islamic State families

2026-02-20

A camp in northeastern Syria that had housed families of suspected Islamic State members is now largely empty after hundreds of women and children were repatriated to their countries or transferred to other facilities in recent weeks, officials said Friday. The UN refugee agency assisted in returning 191 Iraqi citizens from Syria's al-Hol camp to Iraq on Thursday, according to Gonzalo Vargas Llosa, the agency's representative in Syria. About 600 Syrians were moved from al-Hol to Akhtarin camp in northwestern Aleppo province, with transfers ongoing, a Syrian government official said. "With this repatriation, and with today's return of several vulnerable Syrian families supported by UNHCR and partners, Al‑Hol camp will now be practically empty," Vargas Llosa said.

US pays about $160M toward UN dues; Trump pledges more funding

2026-02-20

The United States has paid about $160 million of the nearly $4 billion it owes to the United Nations, the U.N. said Thursday. U.N. spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said the Trump administration’s payment last week is earmarked for the U.N.’s regular operating budget.

Trump’s White House ballroom approved by fine arts panel

2026-02-19

The U.S. Commission of Fine Arts approved President Donald Trump’s plan for a new White House ballroom, choosing a final design on Thursday, according to an Associated Press report. The 90,000-square-foot ballroom would be built on the site of the former East Wing and would hold about 1,000 people, the report said.

Trump campaign visit to Georgia spotlights election-fraud claims amid economy pitch

2026-02-19

President Donald Trump visited Rome, Georgia, on Feb. 19, as Republicans sought momentum for the March 10 special election tied to a congressional district previously held by Marjorie Taylor Greene. At stops including a local restaurant and a steel company, Trump raised debunked voter-fraud claims, argued for voter identification before ballots are cast, and commented on an FBI raid involving election offices in Fulton County. He also promoted economic themes, including tariffs and assertions about inflation and affordability.

Governors group backs out of White House meeting after Trump excludes 2 Democrats

2026-02-19

The National Governors Association said it is pulling out of an annual meeting at the White House after President Donald Trump declined to invite two Democratic governors, Jared Polis of Colorado and Wes Moore of Maryland. Trump is still expected to meet with governors at the White House on Friday, but the meeting will not be facilitated by the bipartisan organization.

New Trump order could lead to arrest of tens of thousands of refugees

2026-02-19

The Trump administration has issued a sweeping order that could allow federal agents to arrest tens of thousands of refugees who are lawfully in the U.S. but do not yet have permanent residency, according to a memo filed by the Department of Homeland Security. The order applies to refugees in Minnesota ahead of a Thursday hearing before U.S. District Judge John Tunheim over whether to extend protections that stop the arrests and deportations. Advocates and lawmakers said the government failed to offer a coherent legal basis for the policy.

Paris prosecutors open Epstein-related probes into sex abuse, finances

2026-02-19

Paris prosecutors opened two new investigations into potential sex abuse crimes and financial wrongdoing linked to Jeffrey Epstein and urged possible victims to come forward, AP reported. Prosecutor Laurence Beccuau said investigators will rely on U.S. government files released about Epstein as well as media reporting and new complaints. The probes involve specialized magistrates and follow the U.S. Justice Department’s release of more than 3 million pages of documents, along with thousands of videos and photos tied to Epstein.

Many Democrats still down on their own party, AP-NORC poll finds

2026-02-19

Democrats have notched wins in recent special elections, but a new AP-NORC poll finds many rank-and-file Democrats still view their party negatively. About 7 in 10 Democrats said they have a positive view of the Democratic Party, a figure that has fallen sharply after President Donald Trump’s 2024 victory. The poll also finds Americans are generally negative about both parties, with a sizable share holding negative views of each.

Transportation Department orders closure of over 550 CDL driving schools

2026-02-19

The federal Transportation Department said more than 550 commercial driving schools must close after investigators found they hired unqualified instructors, failed to adequately test students and had other safety problems. The department said the decision follows 1,426 site visits completed in December and is intended to improve safety in the trucking industry.

Hassett urges discipline for Fed economists over tariff study

2026-02-19

President Donald Trump’s top economist, Kevin Hassett, said Wednesday that Federal Reserve economists should face “discipline” after a recent study concluded that nearly all new U.S. tariffs are being paid by American companies and consumers. Hassett called the paper “an embarrassment,” as the White House renewed criticism of the central bank’s work and its independence.

Democrats recruit influencers in Texas to reach Latino voters before March 3

2026-02-19

Democrats are rolling out a strategy in the Houston area to recruit popular social media influencers as intermediaries for messaging to Latino voters ahead of Texas’ statewide primary on March 3, according to an Associated Press report. The plan, developed by the Congressional Hispanic Caucus’ political arm, is built around stipends for participating creators and aims to expand the approach to other competitive races. Carlos Eduardo Espina, a progressive influencer with more than 14 million followers on TikTok, attended a Tuesday night rally where he promoted the effort.

Democrats urge removal of citizenship question from 2026 census test

2026-02-19

Democrats on the House Committee on Oversight urged the Census Bureau to remove a citizenship question from a 2026 practice test, warning it could deter immigrants from participating. The on-the-ground tests in Huntsville, Alabama, and Spartanburg, South Carolina, are scheduled to begin next month.

Federal judge slams Trump administration immigration crackdown in ruling

2026-02-19

A federal judge on Wednesday issued a scathing decision criticizing the Trump administration’s approach to immigration detention and deportations, saying it illegally denied detained people a path to bond and violated a prior order. U.S. District Judge Sunshine Sykes in Riverside, California ordered the Department of Homeland Security to notify certain immigrants about potential eligibility for bond and to provide them phone access to contact attorneys within an hour.

Republicans ask Supreme Court to stop new voting maps in NYC

2026-02-19

Republicans asked the U.S. Supreme Court to block changes to New York City’s only GOP U.S. House district after a state appeals court ordered a new map. The request came after a state judge tossed the district lines, and a court of appeals sided with Democrats in a Thursday decision. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis said in a statement that “race-based redistricting violates the U.S. Constitution.”

Rubio plans Israel visit to update Netanyahu on U.S.-Iran nuclear talks

2026-02-19

Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans to travel to Israel next week to update Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on U.S.-Iran nuclear talks, two Trump administration officials said. The officials spoke Wednesday on condition of anonymity and said Rubio is expected to meet Netanyahu on Feb. 28.

Trump orders agencies to release UFO and extraterrestrials files

2026-02-19

President Donald Trump said he is directing the Pentagon and other U.S. agencies to identify and release files related to extraterrestrials and unidentified aerial phenomena, citing “tremendous interest.” He said he does not know whether aliens are real and told reporters that he may “get” former President Barack Obama “out of trouble” by declassifying information.

New Mexico Senate backs pay for legislature that currently relies on volunteers

2026-02-19

Members of New Mexico’s Senate voted Tuesday to endorse a constitutional amendment that would let the state reconsider its ban on direct legislative compensation, a rule that has kept the legislature unsalaried since statehood. If voters approve the change in November, legislative salaries would be tied to a statewide benchmark based on median income.

Les Wexner tells Congress he was “duped” by Jeffrey Epstein

2026-02-19

In an interview with the House Oversight and Reform Committee, billionaire Les Wexner said he was “duped by a world-class con man” and described Jeffrey Epstein as a close adviser who conned him. Wexner, 88, denied knowing about Epstein’s crimes or participating in his abuse of girls and young women, and said he believed he did nothing wrong.

NIH chief Bhattacharya to temporarily run CDC while Trump seeks a director

2026-02-19

National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya will temporarily serve as acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an administration official said Wednesday. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the appointment had not been announced publicly.

Peru Congress elects José María Balcázar as interim president

2026-02-19

Peru’s Congress late Wednesday elected former judge José María Balcázar as the country’s interim president, replacing another interim leader ousted the day before over corruption allegations. Balcázar, 83 and affiliated with the leftist Perú Libre party, was sworn in after the vote and is set to govern for about five months ahead of elections on April 12.

Ukraine ex-army chief Zaluzhnyi tells AP of rift with Zelenskyy

2026-02-19

Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukraine’s former army chief and current ambassador to Britain, told The Associated Press that he and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have had a “deep rift” since Russia launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022. He described a tense relationship that, he said, reached a boiling point when agents from Ukraine’s domestic security service raided his office later in 2022. The SBU said it never carried out a search at Zaluzhnyi’s office and that the address was part of an investigation unrelated to him.

Paid leave for caregivers gains momentum as US population ages

2026-02-19

More than 63 million Americans provide care for an adult family member while holding paid jobs, and employers are increasingly responding with paid time off to help workers balance both responsibilities. As the U.S. population ages, companies and organizations are expanding benefits that once were rare, offering workers paid leave for caregiving alongside options like flexible scheduling and care-concierge services.

Virginia court temporarily blocks Democrats' redistricting referendum

2026-02-19

A Virginia court on Thursday issued a temporary restraining order blocking Democrats' planned April voter referendum to redraw the state's congressional maps, effectively halting a Democratic effort to gain four U.S. House seats in the national mid-decade redistricting battle. Tazewell Circuit Court Judge Jack Hurley Jr. granted the order at the request of the Republican National Committee, the National Republican Congressional Committee, and Republican U.S. Representatives Ben Cline and Morgan Griffith, who argued the referendum's timing and phrasing violate state law. Virginia's Democratic Attorney General Jay Jones vowed to appeal.

Colleges cut ties with PhD Project after Trump administration pressure

2026-02-19

The Trump administration said it pressured universities to end partnerships with The PhD Project, a nonprofit that helps racial minorities earn doctorate degrees. The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights said 31 universities agreed to end partnerships after an investigation opened in March 2025, with negotiations continuing with 14 more schools. The department said the group “unlawfully limits eligibility based on the race of participants,” citing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

Judge sets Friday deadline for Trump to restore slavery exhibit in Philadelphia

2026-02-19

A federal judge in Philadelphia set a Friday deadline for the Trump administration to restore an exhibit on nine people enslaved by George Washington at his former home on Independence Mall. Senior U.S. District Judge Cynthia Rufe issued the deadline Wednesday while the Justice Department appealed her order restoring the exhibit.

Trump hosts Black History Month reception after racist video backlash

2026-02-19

The White House on Wednesday hosted a Black History Month reception with President Donald Trump, speaking about honoring Black Americans and highlighting what he said were policy benefits. The event came less than two weeks after Trump posted a racist video depicting former President Barack Obama and his wife as primates in a jungle, a post he later deleted amid bipartisan backlash.

Wes Moore says he doesn’t know why Trump targets him ahead of NA Governors meet

2026-02-19

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore told The Associated Press on Wednesday that he does not know why President Donald Trump has stepped up criticism of him, adding, “I pray for him and I just feel bad for him.” Moore said the president’s remarks about a sewage spill tied to a Washington, D.C., pipe on federal land “literally has nothing to do with us.” He also said Moore’s meeting with Democratic House leader Hakeem Jeffries covered Maryland redistricting, and that his role in the party centers on checks and balances.

Hawaii bill would allow residents to kill feral chickens on public land

2026-02-19

Hawaii lawmakers are considering proposals that would let residents kill feral chickens and could classify the birds as a “controllable pest” on public land in Honolulu, according to AP. Supporters say wild chickens are harassing residents and students, while opponents cite cultural and animal-welfare concerns and urge alternatives first.

Air Force One will be painted red, white and blue

2026-02-19

U.S. military officials said the next Air Force One aircraft will be repainted with a red, white and blue color scheme, a look associated with President Donald Trump. The Air Force said the change will apply to updated Boeing 747 jets expected to serve as Air Force One and to other smaller jets used by top U.S. officials.

Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos announces retirement at year’s end

2026-02-19

Robin Vos, the Republican Assembly speaker who has led Wisconsin GOP legislative efforts for more than a decade, said Thursday he will retire at the end of the year. The announcement came from the floor of the Assembly, with Vos pointing to a health scare in November and saying it was “the tap on the shoulder that I needed to make sure that my decision is right.”

US Rep. Joaquin Castro says ICE deported a sick 2-month-old baby

2026-02-19

U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro said U.S. immigration authorities deported a 2-month-old baby with bronchitis to Mexico along with his family. Castro made the claim in an X post Tuesday, saying the child was unresponsive shortly before being discharged from a hospital. A Homeland Security spokesperson said the baby was in stable condition and medically cleared for removal.

Trump banner displayed on Justice Department headquarters

2026-02-19

A large banner featuring President Donald Trump’s face was hung Thursday on the exterior of U.S. Justice Department headquarters in Washington, where it drew criticism that it symbolized growing White House control over the agency. The banner, placed between columns on a corner of the building, displays the slogan “Make America Safe Again.”

EEOC sues Coca-Cola bottler, alleging men barred from women’s forum

2026-02-19

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission sued Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast on Tuesday, alleging the regional bottler excluded men from a company-sponsored networking trip for about 250 women at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in New Hampshire, says the bottler’s approach violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Alaska to replace Black Veterans Memorial Bridge, keep two spans as tribute

2026-02-19

Alaska plans to replace the Black Veterans Memorial Bridge over the Gerstle River near Delta Junction, and will keep two of its nine trestles in place as a refashioned memorial, the state transportation department said. The 1,885-foot bridge, renamed in 1993, will be replaced with a new span expected to open in 2031, while seven trestles will be offered for free to qualified applicants.

New Mexico enshrines universal child care program into law

2026-02-19

New Mexico lawmakers have enshrined a universal child care program into law, following through on promises by Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to offer free child care to families of all income levels. State officials said the program includes guardrails meant to protect public finances as legislators expand eligibility to thousands more children.

Zambia court dispute keeps ex-President Edgar Lungu’s body unburied for months

2026-02-19

Zambia’s former President Edgar Lungu died June 5, 2025, but his remains have remained unburied for more than eight months, according to the Associated Press. The dispute centers on competing wishes between Lungu’s family and his successor, President Hakainde Hichilema, over whether Hichilema should attend or be involved in the burial. Courts in Zambia have repeatedly sided with authorities seeking to carry out funeral plans.

Rev. Jesse Jackson’s children honor his civil rights legacy in Chicago

2026-02-19

In Chicago, adult children of the late Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. held an emotional tribute Wednesday, a day after his death. The family said Jackson, who was battling a rare neurological disorder, will be honored next week with services at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and at a South Side church.

Hawaii residents oppose plan to add more telescopes atop Haleakalā

2026-02-19

More than 100 people turned out for the first of two public hearings on a draft environmental impact statement for an Air Force plan to add telescopes atop Haleakalā, a Maui conservation district and home to threatened and endangered species. Opponents said the report does not sufficiently address potential harm to cultural resources and biodiversity, and they raised concerns that the expansion could increase military risk for the island.

Alabama GOP bill would bar stricter pollution rules without proven harm

2026-02-19

Some Republican lawmakers in Alabama have approved a bill that would limit the state’s ability to set environmental regulations stricter than federal standards, framing the change as preventing regulatory overreach. The legislation, approved by the Alabama House and Senate, goes to Republican Gov. Kay Ivey for a decision after critics said it would raise barriers to addressing health risks from pollution, including PFAS.

California high-speed rail chief Ian Choudri takes leave after arrest

2026-02-19

California High-Speed Rail Authority CEO Ian Choudri is taking a leave of absence after he was arrested earlier this month on allegations of domestic violence in the Sacramento area, the authority said Tuesday. Prosecutors said they are not pressing charges, citing a lack of evidence. The arrest adds to scrutiny of the state’s long-delayed, costlier high-speed rail project.

California proposal to tax billionaires pits Newsom against Sanders

2026-02-19

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders campaigned Wednesday in Los Angeles for a California ballot proposal to levy a one-time 5% tax on the assets of billionaires, aiming to backfill federal cuts to health services. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, a leading voice of the state party, has condemned the idea and warned it could harm California’s finances and competitiveness.

Canadian Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux joins Carney Liberals

2026-02-19

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Wednesday that Alberta Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux has crossed the floor to join the governing Liberals, the third such defection to the party in recent months. The move brings the Liberals closer to having a majority government and the ability to pass bills without support from the opposition.

Jesse Jackson’s 1988 presidential run inspired generations

2026-02-19

Rev. Jesse Jackson, whose 1988 presidential campaign energized generations of activists and political leaders, died Tuesday at 84, the Associated Press reported. The Rev. Jesse Jackson announced his second White House bid in 1988 in Pittsburgh, framing it as a chance for the country to realize its “highest ideals.” In tributes, current and former political figures recalled how Jackson’s message of equality and justice influenced their organizing and leadership.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani restarts homeless encampment sweeps

2026-02-19

Mayor Zohran Mamdani said New York City will resume clearing makeshift homeless encampments, days after he paused the prior administration’s sweeps. He said the new approach would be led by the city’s homeless services department, with sustained outreach before encampments are dismantled.

Panel of UN experts links Guatemala’s prosecutor Consuelo Porras to illegal adoptions

2026-02-19

Un panel de expertos de la ONU dijo el lunes que está alarmado por información que vincula a la fiscal general de Guatemala, María Consuelo Porras, con presuntas adopciones ilegales cuando ella era directora de una casa hogar durante el conflicto armado del país. Los expertos emitieron el comunicado cuando Porras se acerca al final de su gestión como fiscal general y postulaba para otro cargo público. En su comunicado, pidieron que no se preseleccione ni se nombre a personas con alegaciones “creíbles” de violaciones de derechos humanos hasta que haya una investigación independiente y exhaustiva.

Texas Tech cancels OB-GYN talk on late-pregnancy abortion ethics

2026-02-19

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center canceled a scheduled Jan. 26 talk by an OB-GYN author focused on medical and ethical considerations surrounding later-pregnancy abortions, university officials said. The cancellation followed public pressure from anti-abortion activists and Turning Point USA-linked students, while abortion-rights advocates disputed the claim that hosting the event would be illegal on a public campus.

Georgia prosecutors admit grave misconduct in Black activist's murder case

2026-02-19

The Fulton County District Attorney's office acknowledged "grave and clear" prosecutorial misconduct Wednesday in the 2002 murder conviction of Jamil Abdullah Al-Amin, a onetime Black Panther leader, while standing by the conviction based on DNA evidence and ballistic testing. The filing accuses the original lead prosecutor, now a superior court judge, of conduct that "crossed the line from aggressive advocacy into misconduct that undermined the core principles of justice." Al-Amin died in prison in November; his family is seeking a public hearing to clear his name.

FCC investigating ABC's 'The View' over equal time rule for political candidates

2026-02-19

The Federal Communications Commission is investigating ABC's "The View" over possible violations of the equal time rule that requires broadcast stations to give political candidates equivalent airtime, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said Wednesday. The inquiry centers on appearances by James Talarico, a Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Texas, who was on the show on February 2, and U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett, who is running against Talarico for the Democratic nomination. The investigation comes as the Trump administration has stepped up scrutiny of broadcast talk shows, with late-night host Stephen Colbert saying CBS executives blocked his scheduled interview with Talarico citing equal time concerns.

Iranians hold defiant 40-day memorial ceremonies for thousands killed in crackdown

2026-02-19

Across Iran this week, Iranians are gathering for 40-day memorial ceremonies known as "chehelom"—a traditional religious observance that has taken on political dimensions—to honor thousands killed in what Human Rights Activists News Agency says was the deadliest crackdown in the Islamic Republic's 47-year history. The ceremonies mark 40 days since January 8 and 9, the deadliest days of the government's response to nationwide protests. Iran's government said in January that 3,117 people were killed; Human Rights Activists News Agency has counted more than 7,000 dead and believes the toll is far higher.

Rare Gem school transforms learning for students with dyslexia

2026-02-19

At Rare Gem Talent School in Kitengela, Kenya, teachers use hands-on lessons focused on sights, sounds, and feelings designed specifically for students with dyslexia, rather than standing lectures. The school is one of a handful in Kenya tailored to children with dyslexia and other learning challenges, addressing a significant gap in an education system that has expanded access broadly but often left behind students with disabilities.

Peru’s Congress removes interim President José Jerí over corruption probe

2026-02-18

Peru’s Congress voted Tuesday to remove interim President José Jerí from office, a move that sets off fresh political instability ahead of April elections. Jerí is facing a preliminary investigation into corruption and influence peddling tied to undisclosed meetings with two Chinese executives, and he has denied wrongdoing.

Democrats seek limits on federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota

2026-02-18

Minnesota’s Legislature opened its session Tuesday with Democrats seeking new limits on federal immigration officers in the state while Republicans plan to focus on fraud in taxpayer-funded programs. The political fight comes as federal immigration enforcement winds down but its effects continue to reverberate at the Minnesota Capitol through the session that runs through May.

US plans more missile launchers for Philippines amid South China Sea tensions

2026-02-18

The United States plans to deploy additional high-tech missile systems in the Philippines to deter aggression in the South China Sea, where the treaty allies on Tuesday condemned what they called China’s “illegal, coercive, aggressive and deceptive activities.” U.S. and Philippine officials held annual talks in Manila and issued a joint statement outlining defense and security steps for this year, including efforts “to increase deployments of U.S. cutting-edge missile and unmanned systems to the Philippines.”

Peru Congress removes interim President José Jerí ahead of April election

2026-02-18

Peru’s Congress voted on Tuesday to remove interim President José Jerí from office, setting off another reshuffling of the country’s top leadership weeks before a presidential election. Lawmakers are expected to elect a new interim president Wednesday night to serve through the April 12 election and until the elected president is sworn in on July 28.

Michigan panel to hear why shelved tribal boarding school report wasn’t released

2026-02-18

Michigan lawmakers scheduled a Feb. 27 hearing on a $1.1 million, 300-page report about tribal boarding schools in the state that was completed in September but never released. The report, first reported by Bridge Michigan and distributed through The Associated Press, recommended an apology for Michigan’s role in deaths and abuse of Native American children. Rep. Tom Kuhn, R-Troy, said the state spent more than $1 million and then “threw the report in the garbage can,” while the Department of Civil Rights has declined to testify.

Michigan schools face cardiac emergency plan gap as state budget leaves funds out

2026-02-18

Michigan’s 2024 law requires schools to develop cardiac emergency response plans, but the current state education budget’s school safety fund includes no dedicated money for implementation. Officials and advocates say that leaves districts to rely on local capacity to train staff, buy equipment such as automated external defibrillators, and run drills—leaving uneven preparedness across the state.

Who is George Kelesis, Trump’s nominee for Nevada U.S. attorney?

2026-02-18

President Donald Trump’s administration has nominated George Kelesis, a longtime Nevada defense lawyer and chair of the Nevada Tax Commission, to serve as Nevada’s next U.S. attorney, a post that has been filled on an interim basis. Kelesis, 70, would oversee federal prosecutions in Nevada if confirmed by the U.S. Senate, according to the nomination. Nevada Democratic Sens. Jacky Rosen and Catherine Cortez Masto said they are reviewing the choice after a federal judge ruled last year that Trump’s administration had appointed former interim U.S. attorney Sigal Chattah to the acting role illegally.

Judge rules ICE cannot re-detaine Kilmar Abrego Garcia, ending detention

2026-02-18

Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran deportee and long-running legal fight involving U.S. immigration authorities, is no longer being held in immigration detention, a Maryland federal judge ruled Feb. 17, 2026. The decision blocks Immigration and Customs Enforcement from re-detaining him after an earlier Maryland order requiring his immediate release.

Australia refuses to repatriate 34 IS-linked women and children from Syria

2026-02-18

Australia’s prime minister said the government will not repatriate from Syria a group of 34 women and children with alleged links to the Islamic State, after Syrian authorities turned them back to the Roj detention camp. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government is providing “absolutely no support” and is not repatriating the group, while opposition leader Angus Taylor urged the use of temporary exclusion orders to prevent returns.

Colbert says CBS pulled Talarico interview as early voting begins in Texas

2026-02-18

Stephen Colbert said CBS pulled his interview with Democratic Texas Senate candidate James Talarico from Monday’s “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” as early voting began for the Texas primaries. Colbert said CBS attorneys feared broadcasting the interview could violate Federal Communications Commission guidance on giving political candidates equal time. CBS disputed Colbert’s account, saying its lawyers provided legal guidance about whether airing an interview could trigger the FCC’s equal-time rule.

Immigration judge halts deportation of Mohsen Mahdawi in procedural ruling

2026-02-18

A U.S. immigration judge blocked the Trump administration from deporting Mohsen Mahdawi, a Palestinian legal permanent resident who led protests at Columbia University against the war in Gaza. The judge, Nina Froes, said the case was terminated because government attorneys failed to properly certify an official document they planned to use as evidence.

White House picks Las Vegas lawyer to replace Sigal Chattah as U.S. attorney

2026-02-18

The Trump administration has selected Las Vegas attorney George Kelesis to replace Sigal Chattah as Nevada’s top federal prosecutor after an appeals court review raised questions about Chattah’s eligibility to serve. Chattah was appointed in March, and her continued role has been tied up in court as the Ninth Circuit heard arguments last week.

Lawsuit challenges Trump-era changes to exhibits at national parks

2026-02-18

In two lawsuits filed Tuesday, conservation and LGBTQ+ advocates sued the Trump administration over National Park Service policies they say remove or censor history and science from federal sites. One case in Boston targets changes to exhibits that discuss slavery and climate change, while another seeks to reverse the removal of a Pride flag at Stonewall National Monument in New York.

Sri Lanka lawmakers scrap pensions in sweeping vote

2026-02-18

Sri Lankan lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to scrap their pensions, fulfilling a campaign promise tied to public anger over the country’s economic crisis. On Tuesday, the bill passed in the 225-member House by 154 votes, with only two against, according to the Associated Press.

Jesse Jackson, Civil Rights leader and Rainbow/PUSH founder, dies at 84

2026-02-18

The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, a decadeslong civil rights leader and two-time Democratic presidential candidate, died Tuesday at age 84, his family said. Jackson had spent his life advocating for voting rights and economic opportunity through organizations including Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, and he continued public activism even as neurological illness affected his speech and movement.

Rev. Jesse Jackson helped popularize the term “African American”

2026-02-18

Rev. Jesse Jackson, who died Tuesday at 84, helped push widespread use of the term “African American” as a way to reclaim cultural identity. In the late 1980s, he and NAACP members and other movement leaders urged people to replace “colored” and “blacks” with wording they said better reflected the community’s ancestral roots.

Takaichi reelected as Japan prime minister; courts Trump ahead of Washington trip

2026-02-18

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said she hopes to deepen ties with U.S. President Donald Trump and strengthen cooperation on rare earths and other economic-security efforts during a visit to Washington next month. Takaichi, reelected earlier Wednesday and forming her second Cabinet, also outlined plans to raise Japan’s military capability and boost defense spending as tensions with China have increased.

Thomas Pritzker steps down as Hyatt executive chairman after Epstein links

2026-02-18

Hyatt executive chairman Thomas Pritzker said he will step down from the hotel company’s board, saying he “deeply regrets” his association with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. In a prepared statement, Pritzker said he condemned the actions and “harm caused” by Epstein and Maxwell and apologized for what he called “terrible judgment” in maintaining contact. The move follows revelations in documents tied to a U.S. Department of Justice investigation into Epstein’s links to powerful people.

Trump family seeks trademark rights for airports using the “Trump” name

2026-02-18

Donald Trump’s family business has filed applications to trademark the use of the president’s name for airports, according to a report by The Associated Press. The applications include airport naming proposals in Florida, where lawmakers are weighing a plan to rename the Palm Beach airport for Trump.

EPA ends credits for automatic start-stop ignition in new vehicles

2026-02-18

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said Thursday it is ending tax credits for automakers that install automatic start-stop ignition systems in vehicles, a move announced with President Donald Trump at the White House. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin described the technology as something “everyone hates” and said the credits are now “over, done, finished.”

Berkshire Hathaway buys $350 million stake in New York Times, Buffett’s old bet

2026-02-18

Berkshire Hathaway said it is investing $350 million in The New York Times, a move it made six years after Warren Buffett sold off Berkshire’s newspapers, the company disclosed in a quarterly filing. The Omaha, Nebraska-based firm also increased its Chevron stake and continued trimming holdings in Bank of America and Apple.

Authorities investigate alleged ICE beating that left man with skull fractures

2026-02-18

Minnesota and federal authorities are investigating an allegation that Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers beat a Mexican citizen during an arrest in St. Paul last month, leaving him with eight skull fractures and hospitalization in an intensive care unit. The case has prompted renewed scrutiny of whether surveillance footage from the arrest site captured what happened. ICE has said the man injured himself while handcuffed, but hospital staff told The Associated Press that the injuries were not consistent with a fall.

California regulators decline 30-day Tesla sales suspension over marketing

2026-02-18

California regulators said Tuesday they will not suspend Tesla’s license to sell vehicles in the state for 30 days, after determining the company stopped misleading drivers about the safety of its cars. The decision follows an administrative law judge’s finding that Tesla misled consumers through its use of the terms “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving.”

Inside Obama advisers’ blind spot on Trump

2026-02-18

In a new oral history of the Obama presidency, former and current aides say they underestimated Donald Trump’s staying power even as ridicule, dismissals and scandals failed to dent his campaign momentum. The interviews, released Tuesday, trace how Obama advisers wrestled with how an electorate increasingly shaped by social media could embrace conspiracy theories—and still vote for the person the White House called a “clown.”

New Maryland law halts some ICE cooperation by local sheriffs

2026-02-18

Maryland’s Democratic Gov. Wes Moore signed a law this week that bars state and local law enforcement agencies from entering cooperative agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as part of the federal 287(g) program, according to the Associated Press. The change is expected to affect multiple Maryland sheriffs and counties that have been turning detainees over to ICE under deputization-style arrangements.

Newsom’s expanded transitional kindergarten leaves some private preschools struggling

2026-02-18

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s expansion of California’s free transitional kindergarten grade has helped some families cut child care costs, supporters and parents say. But private preschool operators interviewed by CalMatters, distributed by The Associated Press, say the shift has strained thin margins and contributed to closures in some counties.

Rev. Jesse Jackson’s key quotes on race and politics

2026-02-18

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a civil-rights leader and longtime advocate for voting rights and economic justice, died Tuesday at age 84, the Associated Press reported. In recent decades, Jackson’s speeches spanning his Rainbow/PUSH Coalition leadership, two presidential runs, and support for Black Lives Matter helped define how he spoke about hope, change, and coalition-building.

Trump CFTC chair backs Kalshi and Polymarket as states sue

2026-02-18

The Trump administration is backing prediction market operator Kalshi and Polymarket in a federal case with Nevada over whether the platforms can operate under state gambling rules. The move comes from Michael Selig, newly appointed chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, who is weighing in with a “friend of the court” filing as the companies appeal an order that blocked Kalshi from operating in Nevada.

Zuckerberg testifies Instagram removed time-spent goals amid trial on children's safety

2026-02-18

Mark Zuckerberg testified Wednesday in a Los Angeles courtroom in an unprecedented social media trial questioning whether Meta's Instagram deliberately addicts and harms children. The Meta CEO said the company moved away from using time-spent metrics to measure platform success, but internal documents the plaintiff's attorney presented appeared to contradict his earlier congressional testimony that employees had not been given explicit goals to boost engagement.

Judge orders Trump administration to restore Washington slavery exhibit

2026-02-17

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore an exhibit about nine enslaved people at George and Martha Washington’s former home in Philadelphia after the National Park Service removed exhibit panels last month. U.S. District Judge Cynthia Rufe said the materials must be returned to their original condition while a legal challenge to the removal plays out.

AP Was There: Jesse Jackson pondering a bid for the presidency

2026-02-17

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a 41-year-old civil rights leader in 1983, was profiled by The Associated Press as he weighed a run in the Democratic primaries ahead of the 1984 presidential election. The profile, written by Sharon Cohen and republished by AP, depicts Jackson as a preacher-driven political force whose rhetoric centers on hope, voter registration and redirecting the political mainstream.

Ireland regulator opens EU privacy investigation into X’s Grok deepfakes

2026-02-17

The Irish data privacy regulator said it has opened an inquiry into Elon Musk’s X over Grok’s alleged creation and posting of nonconsensual intimate or sexualized deepfake images involving Europeans, including children. The investigation, notified to X on Monday, is the latest in a widening legal and regulatory push across Europe over Grok and the spread of harmful AI-generated content.

Paxton steps up campaign against Cornyn in Texas Senate primary

2026-02-17

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton stepped up his bid for the U.S. Senate on Monday, launching a new round of rallies ahead of early voting that begins Tuesday in the March 3 GOP primary against Sen. John Cornyn. Paxton, a three-term statewide officeholder, framed the race as a fight against a “D.C. establishment” and has begun airing ads tying himself to President Donald Trump.

Myanmar expels East Timor top diplomat over criminal complaint

2026-02-17

Myanmar’s military government ordered East Timor’s charge d’affaires to leave the country by Feb. 20 after judicial authorities in East Timor accepted a criminal complaint alleging abuses by Myanmar’s armed forces, state media said Feb. 16. The move escalates tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbors shortly after East Timor joined ASEAN last year.

Germany assures Lebanon it will back state authority after UNIFIL ends

2026-02-17

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier told Lebanon on Monday that Germany will keep supporting the Lebanese government after UN peacekeepers leave later this year. Speaking at a news conference near Beirut, Steinmeier said Germany’s navy is already training Lebanese troops as Beirut prepares for a post-UNIFIL security vacuum in the south.

Cuba gasoline rationing app forces drivers to wait months for fuel

2026-02-17

Drivers in Havana say Cuba’s government-run “Ticket” app is booking refueling appointments only weeks or months out, as fuel shortages worsen amid U.S. pressure on the island. The app requires drivers to book appointments at specific gas stations, where only limited numbers of slots are available each day.

How the Siege of Boston shaped George Washington’s legacy on 250th anniversary

2026-02-17

George Washington’s first major command came during the Siege of Boston, as militias pinned down British forces in 1775 and the Continental Congress tapped Washington to lead the newly formed Continental Army. The siege, which intensified into an almost yearlong standoff, helped drive the British to evacuate the city in March 1776 and strengthened Washington’s role in the Revolution, historians said. The 250th anniversary is being marked during Presidents Day events, including ceremonies at Washington’s tomb at Mount Vernon.

Iran meets UN nuclear watchdog in Geneva ahead of second US talks

2026-02-17

Iran’s top diplomat met the head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog agency in Geneva on Monday ahead of a second round of negotiations with the United States over Tehran’s nuclear program, the Associated Press reported. Abbas Araghchi met International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi as Oman, hosting U.S.-Iran talks on Tuesday, prepared for another diplomatic exchange.

Rubio endorses Orbán’s bid for a 5th term in Hungary ahead of April vote

2026-02-17

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Budapest on Monday to endorse Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s bid to serve a fifth straight term, calling the relationship between Orbán and President Donald Trump “very, very close.” Rubio also signed an agreement covering U.S.-Hungarian civilian nuclear cooperation, including possible purchase of compact nuclear reactors, known as small modular reactors, along with U.S. nuclear fuel and spent fuel storage technology.

US deports more third-country migrants to Cameroon, lawyers say

2026-02-17

Lawyers for some deported migrants told The Associated Press that a second deportation flight from the United States to Cameroon arrived in Yaounde on Monday, days after a report said nine people were sent secretly last month to a country where they have no ties.

Women's Sports Media Outlets Expand Coverage at Olympics and Beyond

2026-02-17

Women's sports media outlets are growing rapidly and expanding their coverage, including at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics, as they fill a void left by mainstream sports media. These outlets are focused on providing women's sports with the same intensity and seriousness as men's sports.

Jesse Jackson, civil rights leader and bridge to lasting change, dies at 84

2026-02-17

Rev. Jesse Jackson, a civil rights leader who helped connect the movement’s early Southern fight against Jim Crow to later battles over racial inequality, died Tuesday at 84, his family said. Jackson kept advocating for civil and human rights for more than five decades, including through economic and political efforts and public health drives during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also remained visible at major moments of racial justice, including during the protests after George Floyd’s killing in Minneapolis.

Anderson Cooper exits “60 Minutes,” will stay with CNN

2026-02-17

Anderson Cooper said Monday he is leaving CBS’s “60 Minutes” but will remain at CNN, citing his decision to spend more time with his family. Cooper has been a correspondent on the CBS broadcast for about two decades and appeared on the show Sunday night, introducing a brief segment by filmmaker Ken Burns.

EU investigates Shein over illegal items, addictive design and opaque recommendations

2026-02-17

The European Commission has opened a formal investigation into Shein under the EU’s Digital Services Act, focusing on concerns that the online retailer is not doing enough to limit illegal products and protect users. Regulators also are looking at whether Shein’s design is “addictive” and whether its recommendation system explains clearly why users see specific items.

Tributes pour in for civil rights leader Jesse Jackson after death at 84

2026-02-17

Civil rights leader Rev. Jesse L. Jackson died at 84, and tributes from political leaders, civil rights organizations and international figures poured in following his death. In statements and remarks, many credited Jackson with decades of organizing, bridge-building and advocacy that they said helped shape major movements for civil rights in the United States and beyond.

Australians turned back from Syria’s Roj camp as repatriation blocked

2026-02-17

Syrian authorities turned back a group of Australian women and children on Monday after they left the Roj camp in Syria for repatriation attempts, according to camp officials. The group of 34 people from 11 families had been planning to travel from Roj camp to Damascus before flying to Australia, but officials in Damascus told them departure procedures were not complete, the officials said.

Man in northern Sweden suspected of selling sex with wife to 120 men

2026-02-17

A prosecutor in northern Sweden told The Associated Press that a man in his 60s is suspected of exploiting his wife and selling sex with her to at least 120 men. Prosecutors said the man has been in custody since October after the woman reported the incidents to police, and they are preparing charges of aggravated procurement.

Dana Eden, producer of “Tehran,” found dead in Greece

2026-02-17

Dana Eden, an Israeli television producer known for co-creating the espionage thriller “Tehran,” was found dead in Athens, Greece, on Feb. 16, Israeli broadcaster KAN said. A Greek police official said initial indications suggested she took her own life, with no suspicion of foul play.

Imran Khan’s physician can’t verify report of eyesight improvement

2026-02-17

Pakistan’s Supreme Court ordered Imran Khan be examined in prison after supporters raised concerns about his eyesight, and a video message from his physician on Monday said a reported “improvement” cannot be verified without access to the imprisoned former prime minister. Dr. Aasim Yusuf said prison doctors told him by phone about what they said Khan received and about “improvement,” but he could neither confirm nor deny the assessment. The case has renewed pressure from Khan’s allies for him to be transferred to a hospital in Islamabad.

China grants visa-free entry for UK and Canada travelers in boost to tourism

2026-02-17

China will allow British and Canadian citizens to enter without a visa starting Tuesday, expanding a program that Beijing says is intended to boost tourism and business, the Associated Press reported. The change raises the number of countries with visa-free access to 79, and it follows recent visits by Britain’s and Canada’s prime ministers to Beijing.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino receives Lebanese passport in Beirut

2026-02-17

Gianni Infantino, president of soccer’s governing body FIFA, received a Lebanese passport from Lebanon’s Interior Ministry in Beirut on Monday, months after President Joseph Aoun granted him citizenship. Infantino said he was “very proud and very happy” to get the document and posted a video of the moment broadcast by local TV stations.

NAACP asks judge to curb federal use of seized Georgia voter data

2026-02-17

The NAACP and allied civil-rights groups asked a federal judge on Monday to limit the government’s use of personal voter information seized by FBI agents from an elections warehouse outside Atlanta. In a motion filed late Sunday, the groups said the seizure of ballots and other records from Fulton County’s elections hub “breached” privacy protections and interfered with the right to vote, and they urged the judge to restrict use of the data to the criminal investigation cited in a search warrant affidavit.

Navalny remembered two years after death in custody as opposition splinters

2026-02-17

Mourners marked two years since Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny died in custody on Feb. 16, 2024, with relatives and European officials laying flowers in Moscow while Russia rejected allegations that he was murdered. The anniversary came as a new European analysis reinforced suspicions that Navalny was killed by poisoning, deepening the case against the Kremlin at a time when the opposition struggles to unite.

Presidents Day 2026: Here’s what’s open and what’s closed

2026-02-17

Federal and state government offices, courts and most schools are closed Monday, Feb. 17, for Presidents Day, but many big retailers plan to operate. U.S. stock markets and banks also close Monday and reopen Tuesday. National parks remain open and free to U.S. residents on the holiday.

Texts banned in Assad’s Syria went on display at the Damascus book fair

2026-02-17

DAMASCUS, Syria — The first post-Assad edition of the International Damascus Book Fair drew crowds and included titles that had long been banned, publishers said after the event wrapped Monday. Kurdish books were offered in the Syrian capital for the first time in decades, while some religious minorities expressed concern after Islamist authors’ works returned to open sale.

China allows UK and Canada visa-free entry, expanding to 79 countries

2026-02-17

British and Canadian citizens will be able to enter China without a visa starting Tuesday, China said, in an expansion of a program that now covers 79 countries. The change is intended to boost tourism and business travel and follows visits to Beijing last month by Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Trump says Board of Peace has $5 billion in Gaza reconstruction pledges

2026-02-16

President Donald Trump said Sunday that members of his newly created Board of Peace have pledged $5 billion toward rebuilding war-ravaged Gaza. He said board members will formally announce the pledges at their first meeting in Washington on Thursday, and he said Indonesia has indicated it could ready troops for a potential stabilization mission.

Iran’s top diplomat heads to Geneva for US nuclear talks mediated by Oman

2026-02-16

Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, is traveling from Tehran to Geneva for a second round of indirect nuclear talks with the United States, Iranian state media reported Sunday. The talks follow an initial indirect round in Oman and will be mediated by Oman, with Araghchi’s delegation also set to meet regional and international counterparts in Geneva.

US and Iran to hold new nuclear talks in Geneva next week, Swiss say

2026-02-16

Iran and the United States will hold a second round of indirect talks over Tehran’s nuclear program next week in Geneva, Switzerland’s Foreign Ministry said Saturday. Oman hosted the first round of indirect talks Feb. 6, and it will be followed by a new Geneva round without days specified, the ministry said.

What to know about TSA screening and airport lines during DHS shutdown

2026-02-16

The Homeland Security shutdown that began early Saturday affects the Transportation Security Administration, which is expected to have many officers working without pay across U.S. airports, raising questions about how quickly travelers will get through screening. White House negotiations with Democratic lawmakers have not produced a deal by the end of the week, and aviation and travel industry officials warn that disruptions could build as the episode continues.

Homan says “small” security force will remain in Minnesota

2026-02-16

Tom Homan, the White House border czar, said more than 1,000 immigration agents have left the Twin Cities area and that additional agents will depart in the coming days as the Trump administration draws down its immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota. Homan told CBS’ “Face the Nation” that a “small” security force will remain for a short period to protect remaining agents, while officers will keep investigating fraud allegations and responding to protests.

No clear path to ending partial shutdown as DHS oversight talks stall

2026-02-16

Lawmakers and the White House offered no sign of compromise Sunday in a fight over oversight of federal immigration officers that has led to a pause in funding for the Department of Homeland Security, the Associated Press reported. A partial government shutdown began Saturday after congressional Democrats and President Donald Trump’s team failed to reach a deal to fund the department through September.

State Department orders nonprofit libraries to stop passport services

2026-02-16

The U.S. State Department has ordered some nonprofit public libraries nationwide to stop processing passport applications, disrupting a service that librarians say communities have relied on for years. The agency said the change took effect Friday for libraries no longer authorized under the Passport Acceptance Facility program, while it said the affected libraries are less than 1% of the overall network.

In Michigan, 3 Democrats test vision of affordability in Senate primary

2026-02-16

Battleground Michigan is seeing three Democrats—U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, state Sen. Mallory McMorrow and physician Abdul El-Sayed—try to define “affordability” ahead of the Aug. Senate primary. The candidates are testing different routes to voters as Democrats seek to win back the seat held by retiring Sen. Gary Peters in the November midterm election cycle.

Judge tentatively blocks Trump administration from accessing SNAP data

2026-02-16

A federal judge in San Francisco said Friday she will rule that the U.S. government cannot force states to provide detailed data on people who apply for or receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. U.S. District Judge Maxine Chesney’s tentative ruling follows last year’s lawsuit by states seeking to block the Department of Agriculture from requiring the records, including information tied to immigration status.

Derek Dooley says he didn’t vote for years as he seeks Georgia Senate seat

2026-02-16

Derek Dooley, a former University of Georgia football coach, is entering the Republican Senate primary in Georgia while saying he did not vote for nearly two decades. In interviews with The Associated Press, Dooley said he did not vote when Donald Trump won the presidency in 2016, did not vote in 2020, but resumed voting in 2022 and backed Trump in 2024.

Israel to resume contentious West Bank land registration process

2026-02-16

Israel will begin a new land registration process in a large part of the occupied West Bank, a government decision announced Sunday that Palestinians say could amount to “de facto annexation.” The plan would restart “settlement of land title” proceedings that have been frozen since the 1967 war, requiring people who claim land to submit ownership documents.

Petro agrees to ELN proposal for drug-ties probe commission

2026-02-16

Colombian President Gustavo Petro said Sunday he would accept a proposal from the ELN to allow an independent commission to investigate the rebels’ alleged links to drug trafficking. The proposal came from ELN leader Antonio Garcia in a video posted Jan. 20.

Trump moving second aircraft carrier to Mideast to pressure Iran

2026-02-16

President Donald Trump said Friday that a change in power in Iran would be “the best thing that could happen” as the U.S. weighs whether to take military action against Tehran. Speaking after visiting troops at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, Trump also confirmed plans to deploy a second carrier group to the Middle East.

US ocean agency plans changes to right whale ship speed rule

2026-02-16

The U.S. ocean regulator plans to propose “modernized” rules for protecting endangered North Atlantic right whales, shifting away from vessel-speed slowdowns that critics say are essential to preventing collisions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said it plans a “deregulatory-focused action” to reduce “unnecessary regulatory and economic burdens” while maintaining conservation for the whales.

US urges Vanuatu to withdraw UN climate reparations draft

2026-02-16

The Trump administration is urging other nations to press Vanuatu to withdraw a United Nations draft resolution supporting strong action on climate change, including provisions calling for reparations tied to international obligations, the State Department said in guidance sent to U.S. embassies and consulates.

Kenya launches a carbon registry to attract climate investment

2026-02-16

Kenya has launched a national carbon registry in Nairobi to track carbon credit projects and emissions reductions, aiming to improve integrity and attract climate finance as scrutiny of offset markets grows. The registry was unveiled by the Ministry of Environment and the National Environment Management Authority and is expected to become fully operational this year.

Anderson Cooper exits “60 Minutes,” will keep hosting on CNN

2026-02-16

Anderson Cooper said Monday he is exiting CBS News’ “60 Minutes” but plans to remain at CNN, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. Cooper, who has served as a correspondent for the Sunday broadcast for nearly two decades, was on the program Sunday night, introducing a brief segment by filmmaker Ken Burns.

Lawsuit seeks to block Trump overhaul of historic East Potomac golf course

2026-02-16

Two golfers in Washington, D.C., sued the federal government to stop the Trump administration from overhauling East Potomac Golf Course, a more-than-100-year-old public course in East Potomac Park that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The suit, filed against the Department of the Interior, alleges the administration would violate the 1897 law that created the park and the National Environmental Policy Act. It also comes amid a series of legal fights over Trump efforts to change prominent public spaces in Washington.

Tax season tips: IRS filing deadline April 15 and key 2025 changes

2026-02-16

Tax season is underway in the United States, and the IRS deadline to file a 2025 tax return is April 15. Tax professionals advise people to start organizing documents now, avoid rushing at the last minute, and keep copies of what they submit. This year’s filings also reflect new deductions created by a Republican tax and spending bill signed by President Donald Trump last summer.

Kurdish-majority Aleppo neighborhood sees swift return after clashes

2026-02-16

Nearly a month after clashes between government forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces in Aleppo, most displaced residents in the Sheikh Maqsoud area have returned, many saying the turnaround has been unusually quick. The Associated Press visited the neighborhood this week as Damascus seeks to assert control and integrate the last major armed Kurdish group into Syria’s national army.

UNHCR says al-Hol camp residents have declined as families relocate to Akhtarin

2026-02-16

The U.N. refugee agency said Sunday that a large number of residents have left Syria’s al-Hol camp, where relatives of suspected Islamic State militants had been housed. UNHCR’s Syria representative, Gonzalo Vargas Llosa, said Syrian authorities informed the agency of plans to relocate remaining families to Akhtarin camp in Aleppo Governorate.

RFK Jr. pledged transparency, but some federal health data still missing

2026-02-16

A year after U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pledged “radical transparency” for federal health agencies, the Associated Press found that multiple types of health information have been delayed, deleted or stopped. AP cited examples spanning abortion surveillance data, overdose tracking, smoking-related surveys, food-safety pathogen monitoring, and certain HIV and transgender-related information removed from government websites.

Larry the cat marks 15 years as Britain’s “first feline”

2026-02-16

LONDON — Larry the cat will mark 15 years on Sunday as the British government’s official rodent-catcher and its unofficial “first feline,” a fixture at 10 Downing St. described as a steady presence through multiple prime ministers. The gray-and-white tabby is credited with “photo-bombing” arrivals and has been photographed catching the occasional mouse, even as his age has slowed his patrols.

Homeland Security funding lapse begins amid ICE and TSA dispute

2026-02-16

Funding for the Department of Homeland Security expired Saturday, starting a new, narrowly confined government shutdown as White House and Democrats miss a deal. Democrats are linking future DHS money to limits on President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda after fatal shootings in Minneapolis last month.

Tarique Rahman vows democratic push after Bangladesh election win

2026-02-16

Tarique Rahman, poised to become Bangladesh’s next prime minister, told reporters in Dhaka that his priorities include improving public order and steering a fragile economy after his party won a parliamentary election this week. Rahman said his remarks come as the country confronts weakened rule-of-law institutions following the 2024 ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

AI video generator from TikTok creator sparks Hollywood backlash

2026-02-16

Hollywood organizations are condemning Seedance 2.0, an AI video generator from ByteDance, saying it infringes copyright and uses actors’ likenesses without permission. The Motion Picture Association said the service “has engaged in unauthorized use of U.S. copyrighted works on a massive scale,” while SAG-AFTRA said the tool enables “blatant infringement” that includes unauthorized use of members’ voices and likenesses.

Colorado River talks stall as Arizona, California, Nevada press US West

2026-02-16

The seven Western states that rely on the Colorado River missed another deadline to agree on a plan to address record drought and water shortages, according to a joint statement released Saturday by the governors of Arizona, California and Nevada. Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo called on Upper Basin states to offer more concessions as negotiations continue.

European labs say Navalny was poisoned with epibatidine, governments report Russia

2026-02-16

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned with epibatidine, a toxin found in poison dart frogs, European foreign ministries said Feb. 14. The U.K., France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said lab analysis “conclusively confirmed” the presence of the substance in samples taken from Navalny’s body and reported Russia to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.

EU foreign chief Kaja Kallas rejects “civilizational erasure” at Munich

2026-02-16

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas on Sunday rejected U.S. claims that Europe faces “civilizational erasure,” during remarks at the Munich Security Conference. Kallas pushed back against criticism of Europe’s immigration policies, declining birth rates and free-speech record cited in a U.S. national security strategy, while Marco Rubio sought to reassure European allies that an end to the trans-Atlantic era was not Washington’s goal.

Hungarian opposition leader Magyar vows to move country back toward West

2026-02-16

Magyar launched his election campaign in Budapest, saying he wants Hungary restored to a Western orientation ahead of an April 12 vote. The former Fidesz insider, now leading the center-right Tisza party, said he was speaking on “the threshold of victory with 56 days left to go.”

Indian Health Service to end mercury dental fillings by 2027

2026-02-16

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Indian Health Service said this month it will phase out the use of dental fillings containing mercury, known as dental amalgams, and fully switch to mercury-free alternatives by 2027. The change will affect millions of patients served by the federal agency for Native Americans and Alaska Natives, where the percentage receiving amalgams has already fallen in recent years.

Kaja Kallas rejects US talk of “civilizational wipe” in Munich

2026-02-16

Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s top foreign policy official, rejected Sunday claims from the Trump administration that Europe faces a “civilizational wipe,” telling allies at the Munich Security Conference that a “progressive and decadent” Europe is not facing such an erasure. She spoke the day after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered a more reassuring message than a sharper one the year before, while still signaling Washington’s intent to reshape the transatlantic relationship.

Rio Carnival dogs parade to protest alleged animal cruelty

2026-02-16

Hundreds of people and their dogs gathered at a Carnival street party in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday to protest violence against pets, organizers said. At the event, Marco Antonio Marinho, the Blocao’s chief organizer, urged people to keep pets comfortable and safe during festivities. The protest also drew attention to the January killing of a dog in southern Brazil that triggered national anger, the Associated Press reported.

Thousands rally in Czech Republic to support President Petr Pavel

2026-02-16

Thousands of demonstrators across the Czech Republic rallied Sunday in support of President Petr Pavel as he disputes his refusal to appoint a foreign minister’s preferred nominee to a government post, an Associated Press report said. The rallies followed tens of thousands who marched in Prague two weeks earlier, according to organizers.

Trust in U.S. health agencies appears to be eroding under RFK Jr.

2026-02-16

A year after Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was sworn in to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, surveys and medical groups say trust in federal health agencies such as the CDC is falling. Kennedy has said his changes are meant to “restore transparency” and empower families to make their own decisions, while doctors and public health organizations say the approach has promoted misinformation and confusion about vaccines.

Lula celebrated at Rio Carnival parade as critics seek legal action

2026-02-15

Rio de Janeiro’s Sambadrome hosted a parade Sunday honoring Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, but opposition figures and legal analysts said the tribute could create election-season legal exposure. Lula attended despite warnings that his appearance could be challenged in Brazil’s electoral court ahead of the October vote.

More law enforcement agencies will soon have counter-drone technology

2026-02-15

U.S. authorities abruptly shut down airspace over El Paso, Texas, this week after a laser counter-drone system was used to neutralize an incoming threat, according to two people familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press. The Federal Aviation Administration grounded aircraft in the area over concerns about the safety of the laser system being used near commercial planes, the people said. More law enforcement agencies have been granted authority to take down drones in recent legislation, a change officials and experts say could make similar incidents more common.

Zambia woman freed after denied abortion and prison sentence

2026-02-15

A Zambian woman, Violet Zulu, says she was turned away from legal abortion care and later sentenced to seven years in maximum-security prison after she admitted procuring her own abortion. Rights groups helped her file an appeal, and she was freed last month, according to The Associated Press. In an interview with AP, Zulu, 26, described delivering the pregnancy in a toilet and placing the fetus in a sack after what she said was desperation and barriers to legal services.

Montana schools struggle to pass funding levies as voter support drops

2026-02-14

Montana school districts are finding it harder to win voter approval for property-tax funding levies that help cover day-to-day K-12 costs not fully funded by the state, an analysis for a legislative study commission shows. The decline has accelerated since the Great Recession and during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Montana School Boards Association.

Virginia court allows April referendum on mid-decade congressional redistricting

2026-02-14

Virginia’s Supreme Court said Friday that a statewide referendum can be held April 21 on whether to authorize mid-decade congressional redistricting, even as it considers a lawsuit over the plan’s legality. The decision gives Democrats a path to voter approval before the state’s highest court rules later on whether lower-court findings should stand.

Justice Department sues Harvard for admissions data access over race

2026-02-14

The U.S. Justice Department has sued Harvard University in federal court, alleging Harvard refused to provide admissions records the department demanded as part of an investigation into whether the school stopped using affirmative action after the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision. In the lawsuit filed Friday in Massachusetts, the department asked a judge to order Harvard to turn over five years of undergraduate admissions data, including applicants’ grades, test scores, essays, extracurricular activities, race and ethnicity, and admissions outcomes.

Key Democrat accuses Justice Department of spying on Epstein-file oversight

2026-02-14

Key House Judiciary Committee Democrat Jamie Raskin asked the Justice Department inspector general to investigate what he called “spying” on lawmakers reviewing Epstein-related records that were released with fewer redactions, after photos during a hearing showed Attorney General Pam Bondi with a folder labeled with a lawmaker’s “search history.”

Trump administration spent $40M on third-country deportations, report says

2026-02-14

The Trump administration spent at least $40 million to deport roughly 300 migrants to countries other than their own, Democratic staff on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee found. The report says the practice was expanded over the past year to help carry out President Donald Trump’s goals of removing immigrants from the United States quickly.

Trump’s immigration surge ends in Twin Cities, but its effects linger

2026-02-14

Minneapolis and St. Paul officials said relief is tempered by lingering financial strain after the Trump administration ended its Operation Metro Surge in the Twin Cities. The Department of Homeland Security said it was the largest immigration enforcement operation ever, but the pushback intensified after the shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

U.S. lawmakers head to Munich amid homegrown political turmoil

2026-02-14

In a sign of how U.S. political fights are spilling into world affairs, dozens of lawmakers attending the Munich Security Conference said they arrived while contending with crises at home. House Speaker Mike Johnson canceled an official delegation of about two dozen House members, while the Senate’s trips continued amid disputes over immigration enforcement and a failed Justice Department effort to indict six Democratic lawmakers.

California lawmakers eye factory-built housing push for 2026

2026-02-14

California lawmakers are pursuing a new push to speed up factory-built housing, aiming to make 2026 “the Year of the Housing Factory,” according to state Assemblymember Buffy Wicks. The effort includes select committee hearings on “housing construction innovation” and a white paper from researchers at the UC Berkeley Terner Center for Housing Innovation, alongside plans for legislation in coming weeks.

ICE plans $38.3B detention expansion to reach about 92,000 beds by November

2026-02-14

Federal immigration officials plan to spend $38.3 billion to expand Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention capacity, according to a document released Friday that lays out a mix of new regional processing centers and existing “turnkey” sites. The plan calls for up to about 92,600 beds by November as ICE purchases warehouses to convert them into detention and processing facilities.

Italy pledges deeper cooperation with Africa at summit in Ethiopia

2026-02-14

Giorgia Meloni said Italy will deepen cooperation with African countries at the second Italy-Africa Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as leaders reviewed projects launched under the Mattei Plan for Africa. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the partnerships give Africa a gateway to Europe. The summit ends Friday, followed by the annual African Union summit beginning Saturday.

Trump pardons five former NFL players, including posthumous Billy Cannon

2026-02-14

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump pardoned five former professional football players, including one posthumously, in a round of clemency announced Thursday by White House pardon czar Alice Marie Johnson. The players’ crimes ranged from perjury to drug trafficking.

Trump’s Harvard move reflects a long pattern of lawsuits and threats

2026-02-14

Donald Trump’s Justice Department is suing Harvard University, days after Trump attacked a New York Times story about his fight with the school and threatened comedian Trevor Noah over comments tying Trump to Jeffrey Epstein. The move follows a long pattern of using lawsuits and public threats—against people and institutions, including media outlets—to challenge critics and try to shape outcomes, court and otherwise.

Ex-NYPD official charged with taking bribes from panic button vendor

2026-02-14

A former high-ranking New York Police Department official has been charged with accepting $35,000 in cash and other perks in a bribery scheme tied to a Florida company seeking to sell “panic button” devices to the city’s public schools and police, federal prosecutors said. Kevin Taylor, who commanded the NYPD’s School Safety Division, is accused of trying to steer an $11 million contract to the company, SaferWatch, prosecutors said.

Imprisoned Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi’s health worsening, husband says

2026-02-14

The health of imprisoned Iranian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi is worsening, her husband, Taghi Rahmani, told The Associated Press. Rahmani said she has been unable to communicate with him since her arrest on Dec. 12 during a visit to Mashhad and that his latest contact with her came the night before she left. He also said her condition has deteriorated after she was beaten during an assault by plainclothes security members at a memorial for a human rights lawyer.

Israel’s Barak regrets knowing Epstein as documents show long ties

2026-02-14

Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak said he regrets his yearslong friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and apologized to people “who feel deeply uncomfortable” after new documents released in the U.S. detailed their contact. In an interview on Israel’s Channel 12 on Thursday, Barak said he never observed or took part in inappropriate behavior and faces no accusations of wrongdoing related to Epstein’s sexual abuse of underage girls.

Many Republicans disapprove of Trump on Greenland, new poll finds

2026-02-14

WASHINGTON — A new AP-NORC poll finds that a large share of U.S. adults disapprove of how President Donald Trump is handling Greenland, a semiautonomous territory of NATO ally Denmark, with the disapproval rising even among Republicans. The survey, conducted Feb. 5-8, found about 7 in 10 adults disapprove of Trump’s Greenland approach, and about half of Republicans disapprove of his attempt to turn the island into American territory.

Judge blocks Trump administration’s $600M health grant cuts to 4 states

2026-02-13

A federal judge in Illinois temporarily blocked Trump administration officials from rescinding $600 million in public health grants allocated to four Democratic-led states, halting the cuts for 14 days. The states—California, Colorado, Illinois and Minnesota—argued the decision violates the Constitution by imposing retroactive conditions on funding Congress had already awarded, according to the lawsuit.

Trump’s fundraising war chest could reshape the 2026 midterms

2026-02-13

President Donald Trump has boasted he has more than $1.5 billion in political funds, and attention is now turning to how — and where — he may deploy the money ahead of the 2026 midterm elections and beyond. Political finance experts say the scale of the cash, collected through entities that do not always provide detailed disclosures, could translate into unusual influence over Republican campaigns.

Trump EPA revokes 2009 endangerment finding underpinning Clean Air Act rules

2026-02-13

The Trump administration on Thursday revoked a 2009 “endangerment finding” that determined carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases threaten public health and welfare, a legal basis for much of the federal government’s regulation of climate pollution under the Clean Air Act. The Environmental Protection Agency said the rule rescinds that Obama-era finding, setting up legal challenges and potentially rolling back greenhouse-gas standards for cars and trucks and affecting rules for power plants and other sources, experts said.

Rubio reassures allies at Munich Security Conference while sticking to Trump line

2026-02-13

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told allies at the Munich Security Conference on Saturday the United States would remain “forever tied” to Europe, while signaling the Trump administration intends to reshape the trans-Atlantic alliance. Rubio’s speech sought a less aggressive tone than recent U.S. rhetoric toward traditional partners, but he also denounced “a climate cult” and what he called “an unprecedented wave of mass migration” that threatens social cohesion.

Carney and Poilievre join hands at vigil for Tumbler Ridge victims

2026-02-13

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre held hands as they attended a vigil in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, for victims of the shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. At the event outside town hall, Indigenous leader sang a prayer and Carney and Poilievre spoke as hundreds gathered.

Homeland Security shutdown seems certain as DHS funding talks stall

2026-02-13

Homeland Security shutdown appears likely as negotiations between the White House and Senate and House Democrats stall over demands for limits on immigration enforcement. Lawmakers were preparing to leave Washington for a 10-day break, setting up a potential funding lapse, Democrats said. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said the latest White House offer did not include sufficient curbs on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after two protesters were fatally shot last month.

GOP Sen. Tillis weighs compromise to let Warsh face Fed chair hearings

2026-02-13

Republican Sen. Thom Tillis said he could support a compromise that would allow the Senate Banking Committee to begin hearings on President Donald Trump’s nominee, Kevin Warsh, to chair the Federal Reserve. Tillis said the move could serve as an “off-ramp” after the Justice Department investigation involving Fed Chair Jerome Powell was raised.

Mexican Navy ships bring humanitarian aid to Cuba as U.S. blockade deepens

2026-02-13

Two Mexican Navy ships carrying humanitarian aid docked in Cuba on Thursday as U.S. sanctions and a growing oil-supply squeeze deepen the island’s energy crisis. The ships arrived about two weeks after President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on countries providing oil to Cuba, leading Cuba to ration energy in recent days.

DOJ fires Donald Kinsella after judges appoint him to northern NY

2026-02-13

In a fresh dispute over how federal prosecutors are selected, the Justice Department dismissed Donald Kinsella less than a day after judges appointed him to serve as U.S. attorney for northern New York, the Associated Press reported Feb. 12. Todd Blanche, deputy attorney general, announced the firing, saying the president—not judges—picks U.S. attorneys. Judges said they acted within their legal authority in making the appointment.

Imran Khan to get medical treatment after reported partial vision loss

2026-02-13

Pakistan’s imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan will undergo treatment for an eye condition at a specialized medical facility, a Cabinet minister said, days after the Supreme Court ordered a medical evaluation amid concerns about his eyesight. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said leading eye specialists would examine Khan as part of his ongoing treatment that began in late January after Khan reported partial vision loss in his right eye.

Rubio faces new Greenland, Ukraine test as U.S.-Europe ties strain at Munich

2026-02-13

Secretary of State Marco Rubio leads a large U.S. delegation to the Munich Security Conference, where European leaders are seeking a break from President Donald Trump’s often unpredictable approach that has unsettled allies across the Atlantic. Rubio is scheduled to address the annual gathering Saturday, after European officials have spent months weighing how to respond to Washington’s signals, including Trump’s Greenland comments.

Fact Focus: False claims by Trump administration as it revokes endangerment finding

2026-02-13

President Donald Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin revoked the 2009 endangerment finding that has been central to U.S. greenhouse-gas regulation, and the announcement included multiple claims about climate and energy that the Associated Press challenged as false or misleading. In an AP fact check, experts and other records cited by the report disputed Trump’s assertions about the finding’s legal basis, the cost of wind power, and links between climate and public health.

House renames press gallery after Frederick Douglass during Black History Month

2026-02-13

The U.S. House’s press gallery overlooking the chamber was renamed after abolitionist, writer and presidential adviser Frederick Douglass in a bipartisan move announced during Black History Month. The renaming was brokered by Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., with House Speaker Mike Johnson and other lawmakers attending a ceremony inside the Capitol.

TSA agents work without pay as DHS shutdown delays airport security

2026-02-13

The TSA workforce is expected to work without pay after a U.S. Department of Homeland Security shutdown took effect early Saturday, potentially affecting airport security screening nationwide. The situation is unfolding as lawmakers continue to miss the deadline for DHS’s annual funding.

Cassidy downplays Trump’s backing of Letlow in Louisiana Senate fight

2026-02-13

Louisiana Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy said Friday that President Donald Trump’s backing of GOP Rep. Julia Letlow should not change how voters decide Cassidy’s reelection bid. Cassidy made the comments in Baton Rouge as he submitted paperwork for the state’s May primary, setting up a contest between two Republicans in a race Louisiana Democrats have shown little inclination to challenge.

Democrats accuse Justice Department of spying on lawmakers reviewing Epstein files

2026-02-13

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said the Justice Department should not be tracking the search histories of lawmakers reviewing Jeffrey Epstein investigation files. His comments came after Democrats accused Attorney General Pam Bondi and DOJ of coming to a House Judiciary hearing with information that appeared to show lawmakers’ searches. The Justice Department said it logs searches on its systems to protect against releasing victim information.

Judge blocks Pentagon from punishing Sen. Mark Kelly for resisting unlawful orders video

2026-02-13

A federal judge on Thursday blocked the Pentagon from punishing Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly for participating in a video urging troops to resist unlawful orders, ruling the action would violate Kelly’s First Amendment rights. U.S. District Judge Richard Leon said the Pentagon also “threatened the constitutional liberties of millions of military retirees,” while Kelly seeks to stop a Jan. 5 censure by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Judge orders Trump to let some Venezuelans return from El Salvador prison

2026-02-13

A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to make arrangements for some Venezuelans deported to a prison in El Salvador to return to the United States at the government’s expense, and to allow them to challenge their removals. In Thursday’s ruling, U.S. District Judge James Boasberg criticized the government’s responses to an earlier order that sought a process for the men to contest deportation decisions.

Ramaphosa says South Africa will deploy troops to fight illegal mining and gangs

2026-02-13

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa said his government will send troops into communities in two provinces to help police fight illegal mining and gang violence. Speaking in Parliament during his annual State of the Nation address, Ramaphosa said organized crime is the “most immediate threat” to the country’s democracy, citing risks to public safety and economic stability, especially in Gauteng and the Western Cape.

Senate hearing spotlights ADS-B reforms after DC midair crash

2026-02-13

Grieving families and lawmakers on Thursday urged Congress to move faster on aviation safety changes they say could have helped prevent last year’s midair collision near Washington, a crash that killed 67 people, including 28 members of the figure skating community. A Senate Commerce Committee hearing examined National Transportation Safety Board recommendations—dating to 2008—that would require aircraft around busy airports to use both parts of the ADS-B locator system.

Trump bill, SAVE pause leave borrowers weighing repayment options

2026-02-13

U.S. student loan borrowers face a shifting landscape as federal collections are paused and forgiveness rules change, according to the Education Department and advocates. The changes come as President Donald Trump’s proposal raises new graduate borrowing limits and would tighten eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Separate litigation has left borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan facing an uncertain transition after the 8th Circuit ordered the plan ended.

California launches civil rights probe of Eaton Fire delayed evacuations

2026-02-13

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a civil rights investigation into whether delayed evacuation notices during the Eaton Fire disproportionately harmed west Altadena, a historically Black community. Bonta said the investigation will focus on the Los Angeles County Fire Department and whether emergency response procedures contributed to delayed warnings and any race, disability or age disparities.

Timeline of Trump administration’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota

2026-02-13

The Trump administration has announced the end of a major immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota after about two and a half months, a reported 4,000 arrests and two fatal shootings by immigration officers in the Twin Cities, the Associated Press reported. The crackdown, dubbed Operation Metro Surge, drew daily protests and clashes in Minneapolis-St. Paul and included arrests tied to a separate, Minnesota housing services fraud case, according to the timeline.

South Korea says Kim Jong Un’s daughter could soon be designated heir

2026-02-13

South Korea’s spy agency told lawmakers that Kim Jong Un’s teenage daughter is close to being designated North Korea’s future leader, as the country prepares for a major political conference later this month. The National Intelligence Service said officials are monitoring whether Kim Ju Ae, believed to be about 13, appears with him at the Workers’ Party Congress, where Kim is expected to lay out major policy goals and strengthen his grip on power.

GOP candidate for Arizona governor exits primary, narrowing field to two

2026-02-13

PHOENIX (AP) — Housing developer Karrin Taylor Robson suspended her campaign for Arizona governor, saying she does not want what she called a divisive Republican primary that drains resources and deepens intraparty attacks. Her exit narrows the GOP field for the 2026 general election to two U.S. House members: Andy Biggs and David Schweikert.

Hawaii lawmakers debate letting unlicensed teachers work longer

2026-02-13

Hawaii’s Department of Education is seeking to keep unlicensed “emergency hire” teachers in classrooms for longer, after the state’s reliance on emergency hires surged. The proposal would extend emergency hire permits from three years to five, while some lawmakers and the teacher licensing board argue the approach has become too entrenched and could widen gaps for rural and neighbor island schools. The debate comes as Hawaiʻi education officials say they regularly check that emergency hires are making progress toward licensure.

Puerto Rico governor signs law recognizing fetus as human being

2026-02-13

Puerto Rico Gov. Jenniffer González signed a bill on Feb. 12 that amends the territory’s penal code to recognize a fetus as a human being, drawing warnings from doctors and civil-rights groups about criminal-law and health-care repercussions. The law, Senate Bill 923, was approved without public hearings, according to opponents who said it could affect how doctors treat pregnant and potentially pregnant patients.

Canadian, UK finance groups pause ventures with DP World over Epstein emails

2026-02-13

Canadian pension fund La Caisse and Britain’s development finance agency British International Investment said they have paused new investments with DP World after emails tied to Jeffrey Epstein resurfaced in recently released Justice Department documents. The emails include references in which DP World CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem and Epstein exchanged messages about sex and other topics.

Epstein files show academics sought funding amid fallout over ties

2026-02-13

Justice Department-released documents shed new light on how Jeffrey Epstein’s orbit extended into academia, with professors exchanging emails and seeking donations as his wealth grew more valuable amid research funding competition. The documents show that some academics said Epstein offered a shortcut to funding, while institutions reviewed or removed faculty after new scrutiny of their correspondence.

Federal judge orders DHS to give Minnesota detainees access to lawyers

2026-02-13

A federal judge has ordered the Department of Homeland Security to give immigrants detained in Minnesota prompt access to attorneys after they are taken into custody and before they are transferred out of state. The judge said detainees at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building faced barriers to contacting legal counsel, citing logistical problems and limits that she found interfered with constitutional rights.

Goldman Sachs’ top lawyer Kathy Ruemmler to resign over Epstein emails

2026-02-13

Goldman Sachs Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel Kathy Ruemmler said she will step down effective June 30, 2026, after emails released in the Jeffrey Epstein case showed close ties and downplayed his alleged sex crimes. Ruemmler, a former White House counsel to President Barack Obama, announced her resignation Thursday.

Palestinian woman held in Texas ICE jail says she suffered seizure after fainting

2026-02-13

Palestinian immigration detainee Leqaa Kordia said she suffered a seizure after fainting and hitting her head while being held for nearly a year in a privately run immigration detention facility in Texas. Kordia, 33, said she was hospitalized for three days after the episode and returned to the Prairieland Detention Facility. The Department of Homeland Security said she was not being mistreated and was receiving proper medical care.

Venezuelan prisoners’ relatives begin hunger strike demanding releases

2026-02-13

Relatives of Venezuelan prisoners began a hunger strike on Saturday demanding the quick release of dissidents held at a Caracas detention center known as Zona 7. The relatives’ Committee for the Freedom of Political Prisoners said the strike involves 10 people and would continue until the government frees all 33 political prisoners that the group estimates remain at the facility.

EU leaders agree on broad plan to restructure bloc economy amid Russia, China, Trump

2026-02-13

Leaders from all 27 European Union countries agreed in general terms Thursday on a plan to restructure the bloc’s economy to boost competitiveness as they face pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, China’s hard-line economic tactics and hybrid threats attributed to Russia, according to the European Commission. The agreement, reached at a Belgian castle, calls for a strict timetable for reforms that the Commission says will be formally presented in March.

AP-NORC poll finds independents increasingly disapprove of Trump immigration tactics

2026-02-13

In a new AP-NORC poll, about 6 in 10 U.S. adults say President Donald Trump has “gone too far” in sending federal immigration agents into American cities and using federal law enforcement at public protests. The survey, conducted Feb. 5-8, finds Trump’s approval on immigration remains steady overall, but his standing among independents has worsened since last spring.

EPA revokes 2009 endangerment finding, reshaping US climate rules

2026-02-13

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has revoked its 2009 “endangerment finding,” a scientific conclusion that greenhouse gases from fossil-fuel pollution endanger public health and welfare. The decision, made Thursday, had served for 16 years as a legal foundation for greenhouse-gas limits on power plants, vehicles and other sources under federal law, and it could leave future climate rules in limbo as courts and challenges come into play.

Democratic-led states sue Trump over $600M health grant cut plans

2026-02-13

Four Democratic-led states sued the Trump administration to block planned cuts to about $600 million in public health grants, according to a lawsuit filed in federal court. The Department of Health and Human Services told Congress it planned to withhold the funding allocated to California, Colorado, Illinois and Minnesota, starting as soon as Thursday in some cases, the suit and state officials said.

Trump nominates hospitality executive Scott Socha as National Park Service director

2026-02-13

President Donald Trump has nominated Scott Socha, an executive at Delaware North, to lead the National Park Service, according to the Associated Press. Trump’s administration has faced blowback over firings inside the park service and changes to exhibits, including those related to slavery and climate change. A Senate confirmation is required.

Border czar Tom Homan says Minnesota immigration crackdown is ending

2026-02-13

Minneapolis-area and other Minnesota communities will see the end of the Trump administration’s “Operation Metro Surge,” border czar Tom Homan said Thursday. The drawdown follows thousands of arrests, mass protests and the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens during the crackdown, which began in December, Homan said. Democratic Gov. Tim Walz urged continued vigilance as lawmakers debate whether to impose restraints on immigration officers tied to DHS funding.

FTC chair Andrew Ferguson tells Apple CEO Tim Cook to review Apple News content

2026-02-13

FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson has written to Apple CEO Tim Cook to complain that Apple “suppressed” content from conservative news outlets in the Apple News feed. Ferguson said the FTC is not the “speech police,” but has authority to protect consumers from misleading and omitted information. Apple had no immediate comment to an AP request on Thursday, the report said.

Supporters of exiled Iranian Crown Prince Pahlavi rally in Munich for change

2026-02-13

About 250,000 people demonstrated Saturday against Iran’s government on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, police said, answering a call from exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi for increased international pressure on Tehran. Pahlavi warned that Iran’s crackdown on protesters last month could lead to more deaths unless democracies respond. In Toronto, police estimated about 350,000 marched for what supporters called a Global Day of Action.

Federal law on impairment-detection devices in new cars faces delays

2026-02-13

A federal law requiring impairment-detection technology in new vehicles cleared a funding hurdle but remains stalled as regulators weigh how ready the devices are for deployment. Lawmakers last month defeated a Republican effort to strip funding from the law, known as the Halt Drunk Driving Act.

Epstein played up Nobel ties as Jagland faced corruption charges in Norway

2026-02-13

Jeffrey Epstein repeatedly highlighted personal ties to Thorbjørn Jagland, former head of the Nobel Peace Prize committee, in messages and emails to global elites, according to documents released by the U.S. Justice Department. The papers surfaced during Norway’s investigation that has led to Jagland being charged with “aggravated corruption,” after police said information prompted by the Epstein files fed the probe.

Africa AU summit opens as youth anger grows over bloc of old leaders

2026-02-13

The African Union opened its annual summit on Saturday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as youth across the continent expressed anger at what they see as a “bloc of old leaders.” The meeting comes amid military coups, disputed elections and protests linked to economic hardship worsened by foreign aid cuts.

Analilia Mejia wins New Jersey House special primary, setting up April general

2026-02-13

Analilia Mejia, a longtime progressive organizer allied with Sen. Bernie Sanders, won a crowded Democratic primary in New Jersey’s 11th District special election for the U.S. House seat formerly held by Gov. Mikie Sherrill, the Associated Press reported. The AP declared Mejia the winner Thursday, a week after the closely contested race ended Feb. 5, and she will face Republican Joe Hathaway in the April 16 special general election.

Bangladesh’s Tarique Rahman pledges democracy, law and order after election win

2026-02-13

Bangladesh’s incoming leader Tarique Rahman said Saturday he would work to build a more democratic country after his Bangladesh Nationalist Party won a majority in parliamentary elections. Speaking at a first press meeting in Dhaka, Rahman also said his priorities would include improving law and order and addressing what he described as a fragile economy left behind after years of rule by Sheikh Hasina.

Gail Slater to leave as DOJ antitrust chief after one year

2026-02-13

U.S. Justice Department antitrust chief Gail Slater is leaving her post after about a year, according to a post on social media Thursday. Slater’s departure follows disputes over whether to greenlight major mergers, including Hewlett Packard Enterprise’s deal to buy Juniper Networks.

Immigration judge dismisses deportation case for Mexican father of U.S. Marines

2026-02-13

An immigration judge dismissed a deportation case against Narciso Barranco, a Mexican landscaper arrested in Southern California, clearing the way for him to pursue legal status in the U.S. Judge Kristin S. Piepmeier ordered the case terminated in an order dated Jan. 28, saying Barranco had provided evidence he is the father of three U.S.-born sons serving in the military. The Department of Homeland Security said it would appeal.

Iran wide-ranging arrests roil families after crushed anti-theocracy protests

2026-02-13

Iranian security forces have carried out nationwide arrests following protests that peaked in early January, according to activists and a journalist’s reporting. The arrests, which include women detained after raids on their homes and others held without contact, have spread across urban and rural areas, activists say. The Associated Press reported that an apparent dragnet has touched thousands of people, with detainees held incommunicado for days or weeks as authorities also restrict communications.

Judge orders jailed Guatemalan journalist José Rubén Zamora returned to house arrest

2026-02-13

GUATEMALA CITY (AP) — A judge ordered Thursday that jailed Guatemalan journalist José Rubén Zamora be returned to house arrest while awaiting trial after nearly a year in jail in his latest incarceration, according to a court order described by The Associated Press. Zamora, the founder of El Periodico, had previously been granted house arrest in October 2024 before prosecutors appealed and won rulings that sent him back to jail in March 2025.

Legal hurdles persist for detainee access at Florida “Alligator Alcatraz”

2026-02-13

Attorneys for detainees at a state-run immigration facility in the Florida Everglades known as “Alligator Alcatraz” said Thursday they still face obstacles reaching clients as a federal judge weighs their request for broader lawyer access. The attorneys told a U.S. district court in Fort Myers that detainees could not call them using staff cellphones and that the attorneys could not make unannounced visits, despite state claims the barriers have been removed.

Nevada women’s rights group sues to block Lombardo sports ballot measure

2026-02-13

A women’s rights group is suing to keep a proposed Nevada ballot initiative off the 2026 ballot that would limit transgender female student athletes to sports teams based on sex assigned at birth. The suit, filed Jan. 29 by Sue Burtch, executive director of the Nevada chapter of the National Organization for Women, challenges the initiative’s description as allegedly noncompliant with Nevada statute. A hearing is scheduled Feb. 20 in Carson City.

New York politicians raise rainbow flag at Stonewall, rebuking Trump

2026-02-13

New York politicians raised a rainbow pride flag at the Stonewall National Monument on Thursday in a public display aimed at the Trump administration’s decision to remove the symbol from the LGBTQ landmark, according to the Associated Press. Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal helped raise the flag as a crowd chanted outside the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village.

Newsom takes anti-Trump message to Munich Security Conference

2026-02-13

Gavin Newsom, California’s governor, told an international audience at the Munich Security Conference that Donald Trump will be “gone in three years,” using the event’s climate-focused discussions to criticize Trump’s approach to regulating carbon pollution. The trip comes weeks after Newsom appeared at the World Economic Forum in Davos and ahead of a return visit to South Carolina, where Democrats will hold an early presidential primary in 2028.

Orbán ramps up anti-EU campaign in Hungary ahead of April election

2026-02-13

Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán told supporters that the European Union, not Russia, poses Hungary’s real threat ahead of an April 12 vote, as he steps up an anti-EU campaign and targets the main opposition’s credibility. With only eight weeks until the election, Orbán and his Fidesz party are trying to blunt polling that shows Fidesz trailing the center-right Tisza party led by Péter Magyar.

Trump’s EPA rejects climate as health threat, but studies find harms

2026-02-13

The Trump administration revoked an Environmental Protection Agency finding that climate change endangers public health, an idea President Donald Trump called “a scam.” Researchers say a large and growing body of peer-reviewed work links warming to increased illness and deaths, including heat-related fatalities and other health impacts.

U.S. shuts DEA office in Dominican Republic amid visa-probe arrest

2026-02-13

A U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration office in the Dominican Republic has been shuttered by the U.S. ambassador, after a DEA supervisor was arrested in an investigation tied to alleged abuse of a U.S. visa program for confidential informants, according to two U.S. officials. The case also prompted Homeland Security to lead an investigation in which the supervisor, identified as Melitón Cordero, was taken into custody, the officials said on Thursday.

House votes to reverse Trump tariffs on Canada in bipartisan rebuke

2026-02-12

WASHINGTON — The U.S. House voted Wednesday to terminate President Donald Trump’s national-emergency tariffs on Canada, in a rare rebuke that brought Republicans to back a Democratic-sponsored resolution. The measure passed 219-211 and now heads to the Senate, where supporters said they are seeking to curb what they call an abuse of emergency powers.

Bondi clashes with House Judiciary as Epstein files fight spills over

2026-02-12

Attorney General Pam Bondi faced Democratic lawmakers on Wednesday during a heated House Judiciary Committee hearing focused on the Justice Department’s handling of Jeffrey Epstein files, as she defended President Donald Trump and accused critics of distracting from the administration’s record.

Trump tells Netanyahu he wants U.S.-Iran nuclear talks to continue

2026-02-12

President Donald Trump met privately with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Wednesday and said he “insisted” that U.S. negotiations with Iran continue as Washington seeks a nuclear deal. Trump said no agreement was reached during the meeting and wrote that “there was nothing definitive reached,” other than his insistence that talks continue.

Instagram chief casts doubt on clinical addiction to social media

2026-02-12

Adam Mosseri, the head of Meta’s Instagram, testified Wednesday in Los Angeles that he does not believe people can be clinically addicted to social media platforms, and that his company instead distinguishes “problematic use.” Mosseri spoke during a landmark trial that plaintiffs say will determine how future cases alleging harm to children from social media proceed. Meta and YouTube are the two remaining defendants after TikTok and Snap settled, and Zuckerberg is expected to testify next week.

Court filing says IRS mistakenly shared taxpayer data with DHS

2026-02-12

The IRS erroneously shared taxpayer information of thousands of people with the Department of Homeland Security, according to a court filing made public Feb. 11. The filing says the disclosure happened under a data-sharing agreement aimed at helping Immigration and Customs Enforcement identify and deport people in the U.S. illegally.

CBO projects higher deficits and debt over next decade

2026-02-12

The Congressional Budget Office on Wednesday projected that federal deficits and debt will worsen over the next decade, driven largely by increased spending on Social Security, Medicare and debt service. The CBO also said higher tariffs would partially offset some deficit growth, while contributing to higher inflation from 2026 to 2029.

Argentine Senate gives initial approval to Milei’s divisive labor law

2026-02-12

Argentina’s Senate early Thursday gave its overall approval to President Javier Milei’s labor overhaul after hours of debate, according to the Associated Press. The vote came as thousands of workers backed by powerful trade unions protested outside Congress in downtown Buenos Aires.

House GOP advances SAVE America Act voter ID push ahead of midterms

2026-02-12

House Republicans approved legislation Wednesday that would require voters to prove they are U.S. citizens when they register, including through documents such as a passport or birth certificate, and would require photo identification before voting. The bill, called the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility, or SAVE America Act, passed on a mostly party-line vote of 218-213.

Italy’s Meloni government approves bill enabling naval blockades on migrant ships

2026-02-12

ROME (AP) — Italy’s conservative government led by Premier Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday approved a migration bill that would add new measures to fight illegal immigration, including a “naval blockade” against migrant ships trying to reach Italian shores. The cabinet gave the go-ahead late in the day, and the bill now must go to parliament for discussion and approval in both chambers.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright visits Venezuela to assess oil overhaul

2026-02-12

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright arrived in Venezuela on Wednesday to assess changes to the country’s oil sector, according to a report from Caracas. Wright met acting President Delcy Rodríguez at the Miraflores presidential palace and said he carried a message from President Donald Trump about transforming U.S.-Venezuela relations.

Judge blocks Trump plan to move commuted death-row inmates to ADX Florence

2026-02-12

A federal judge on Wednesday temporarily blocked the Trump administration from transferring 20 former death row inmates with commuted sentences to ADX Florence, the nation’s most secure federal prison. U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly said the government could not use a “sham” process to decide where the prisoners would be held for life. The ruling preserves life sentences for the plaintiffs while their lawsuit proceeds.

Nebraska to share voter data with US Justice Department after court loss

2026-02-12

Nebraska’s Republican secretary of state said the state will turn over sensitive information on every registered voter to the U.S. Justice Department on Thursday after the Nebraska Supreme Court rejected a bid to block the move. Secretary of State Bob Evnen said the court denied the injunction Wednesday, after Common Cause and a state judge had tried to stop the release, including dates of birth, addresses and partial Social Security numbers.

Democrats denounce DOJ effort to indict lawmakers over military-orders video

2026-02-12

Democrats took to the Senate floor Wednesday to denounce the Justice Department’s effort to indict lawmakers over a 90-second video in which they urged military members to resist “illegal orders.” The senators spoke after a Washington grand jury declined to indict six Democratic lawmakers, including Sens. Elissa Slotkin and Mark Kelly.

Black lawmakers, civil rights leaders relaunch plan against anti-DEI agenda

2026-02-12

Congressional Black Caucus leaders and civil rights groups marked Black History Month on Tuesday by relaunching a national plan to mobilize against what they said are efforts by the Trump administration to weaken legal protections for minority communities. The group’s leaders criticized what they described as a rollback of civil rights affecting voting access and discrimination protections, and said they have been coordinating strategies with lawmakers on education and health care, immigration enforcement and anti-discrimination policy.

Iran crackdown on protests kills more than 7,000, activists say

2026-02-12

Iran’s crackdown on nationwide protests last month has killed at least 7,005 people, activists said Thursday, with many more still feared dead. The death toll’s continued rise has heightened tensions as Iran negotiates with the United States over its nuclear program and the U.S. weighs potential military action.

Homeland Security shutdown looms as lawmakers weigh TSA pay, FEMA planning

2026-02-12

Officials at the Department of Homeland Security told a House panel on Wednesday that a shutdown could disrupt disaster reimbursement to states, delay cybersecurity response and training, and leave some Transportation Security Administration workers without pay. The department was funded only through Friday as Congress and the White House negotiated immigration enforcement changes tied to broader Homeland Security legislation.

FAA closes El Paso airspace after CBP uses anti-drone laser

2026-02-12

The FAA closed airspace over El Paso, Texas, on Wednesday for several hours after the Pentagon allowed U.S. Customs and Border Protection to use an anti-drone laser earlier this week, according to two people familiar with the situation. The Trump administration said the shutdown stemmed from efforts by the FAA and Pentagon to stop a possible incursion by Mexican cartel drones, and the restrictions were lifted after flights resumed.

Iran marks 47th anniversary of Islamic Revolution amid nuclear talks, protests

2026-02-12

Iran marked the 47th anniversary of its 1979 Islamic Revolution on Wednesday as President Masoud Pezeshkian called for negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program and acknowledged a crackdown on nationwide protests that began in earnest on Jan. 8. The anniversary drew pro-government rallies broadcast by state television, alongside denunciations of Tehran’s crackdown and tensions involving the United States, where President Donald Trump has suggested sending additional aircraft-carrier forces to the Middle East.

Melania Trump joins children’s patients at NIH for early Valentine’s Day

2026-02-12

Melania Trump visited the Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health on Wednesday, celebrating an early Valentine’s Day with children and young adults receiving treatment for rare and serious diseases. During the visit, she said, “I don’t eat much sweets,” adding that “Sugar is not that healthy for us.”

Pentagon allowed CBP to use anti-drone laser before FAA closed El Paso airspace

2026-02-12

WASHINGTON — The Pentagon allowed U.S. Customs and Border Protection to use an anti-drone laser this week near Fort Bliss, before the Federal Aviation Administration abruptly closed airspace over El Paso, Texas, for a short period, according to two people familiar with the matter who requested anonymity. The FAA later lifted the closure after canceling seven arrivals and seven departures, though medical evacuation flights were also diverted.

Trump administration, Congress move to delay US EV charging build-out

2026-02-12

The build-out of electric-vehicle charging in the United States has continued since Donald Trump returned to office, but the administration and Congress have introduced new steps that could delay it, according to reporting. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced new “fully American-made” requirements for chargers funded with federal money, while the administration and lawmakers have also moved to redirect or cut some EV-charging funds.

Camp Mystic parents urge Alabama changes after 2025 flood deaths

2026-02-12

Patrick Marsh returned to the Bubble Inn cabin at Camp Mystic and recalled how a 50-yard walk to higher ground could have saved his 8-year-old daughter, Sarah Marsh Heaven, during the July 4, 2025, Texas flood. Now, Marsh and his wife, Dr. Jill Marsh, are pressing Alabama lawmakers to tighten camp safety rules beyond Texas, including emergency planning and weather-warning requirements.

Public pushes back on Forest Service plan for controlled burns in Vermont

2026-02-12

The U.S. Forest Service is facing public opposition over a plan to conduct controlled burning over the next 15 years in parts of the Green Mountain National Forest near Lake Dunmore and Silver Lake. The project would cover four areas totaling 2,770 acres in Addison County and is scheduled to begin in spring 2027, with a public comment period that ends this week, according to the Forest Service and commenters.

Trump to host Latin American leaders in Florida before China trip

2026-02-12

President Donald Trump has invited Latin American leaders to a summit in Florida on March 7, a White House official confirmed Thursday, as the administration highlights what it calls Chinese influence in the region. The summit is planned ahead of Trump’s expected trip to Beijing to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the coming weeks.

Trump attacks NGA leader Kevin Stitt as governors’ White House invite dispute

2026-02-12

President Donald Trump attacked Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, the Republican who chairs the National Governors Association, as tensions rose between the White House and the bipartisan group ahead of next week’s annual meeting. Trump posted that Stitt had “incorrectly stated” his position on invitations to governors at a White House event, and called Stitt a “RINO.” The dispute centered on whether Democratic governors would be included in the full sequence of NGA events at the White House.

McMaster endorses Pamela Evette to succeed him as SC governor

2026-02-12

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster on Wednesday endorsed Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette’s bid to succeed him, in a move that his supporters said could put the Republican primary on a path to a potential endorsement from President Donald Trump. Evette is competing for the nomination against Rep. Nancy Mace, Rep. Ralph Norman and state Attorney General Alan Wilson, with the June 9 primary election scheduled ahead of a runoff two weeks later if needed.

Iowa voters settle lawsuit over citizenship challenges tied to 2024

2026-02-12

Iowa’s top election official and a group of naturalized citizens settled a federal lawsuit on Feb. 11 that would bar the state from relying exclusively on driver’s license records for citizenship data in the three months before an election. The case stemmed from election workers challenging ballots in 2024 after the state flagged about 2,000 registered voters as potential noncitizens.

Grand jury refuses to indict lawmakers over military orders video

2026-02-12

A Washington grand jury declined Tuesday to indict Democratic lawmakers tied to a video in which they urged U.S. service members to resist “illegal orders,” according to a person familiar with the matter. The Justice Department had opened an investigation into the lawmakers’ statements, including Sens. Mark Kelly and Elissa Slotkin.

Nevada unveils data-classification policy after cyberattack

2026-02-12

Nevada’s Governor’s Technology Office announced a new statewide policy for classifying and protecting state data, the agency said Wednesday, months after a cyberattack shut down some systems for weeks. The policy creates four categories—“public,” “sensitive,” “confidential” and “restricted”—and directs agencies to use the more restrictive category if classification is unclear. Officials said the plan is intended to standardize how information is handled, reduce uncertainty when agencies share data, and strengthen Nevada’s cybersecurity efforts.

Judge refuses to pause TPS rollback for Haitians, reads threats in court

2026-02-12

A federal judge in Washington on Thursday declined to pause her ruling blocking the Trump administration from ending temporary protected status for Haitians in the U.S. During the hearing, U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes read out death threats and profane messages she said she received after the decision. Reyes said she would not be intimidated as a lawsuit challenging the administration’s effort moves forward.

Seattle reaches $29M settlement in death of grad student Jaahnavi Kandula

2026-02-12

Seattle reached a $29 million settlement with the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old graduate student from India who was struck and killed by a speeding police officer in 2023. The agreement was filed in King County Superior Court, the city said, in a case that drew national attention after recordings surfaced of officers making disparaging remarks about Kandula’s death. City Attorney Erika Evans said the settlement was intended to bring “some sense of closure.”

Vermont to receive $93 million to expand broadband to remote areas

2026-02-12

Vermont will receive about $93 million in federal funding to keep expanding its broadband network into some of the state’s most remote rural areas, officials said Tuesday. The grant is expected to help reach more than 99% of Vermonters, with the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment program approved after new federal requirements were imposed last summer.

Religious Liberty Commission member ousted after antisemitism dispute

2026-02-12

Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, chair of the Trump administration’s Religious Liberty Commission, said a member was removed after a contentious hearing this week that turned on disagreements over how to define antisemitism. AP reported the ousted commissioner, Carrie Prejean Boller, challenged witnesses and argued that prominent commentator Candace Owens had never made antisemitic remarks.

Target faces pressure as anti-ICE store protests move beyond Minnesota

2026-02-12

Activists planned protests at more than two dozen Target stores across the United States on Wednesday to pressure the discount retailer to take a public stand against a recent immigration crackdown in Minnesota. The ICE Out Minnesota coalition called for sit-ins and other demonstrations at Target locations for a full week, including outside stores in Minneapolis and in St. Paul.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signs smartphone ban for Michigan school classrooms

2026-02-12

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signed a new Michigan law that bans smartphones during classroom instruction starting this fall, a step meant to keep the devices out of learning time. Speaking at Waverly High School before the bill signing on Tuesday, Whitmer said phones are a “disruptive distraction” in classrooms and that teachers struggle to compete with social media.

Attorneys say records contradict government account in Chicago Border Patrol shooting

2026-02-12

A Chicago woman shot by a Border Patrol agent during an immigration crackdown last year is suing the federal government after attorneys released records they say contradict the government’s account of the case and its investigation. Attorneys said videos showed an agent steering his vehicle into Marimar Martinez’s car, and they released emails and other materials they say show the Department of Homeland Security spread misinformation. U.S. Customs and Border Protection said use-of-force incidents are thoroughly investigated and the agent involved, Charles Exum, was placed on administrative leave.

Gabbard ends intelligence reform task force

2026-02-12

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard is ending a task force she created to examine changes to the U.S. intelligence community after a little less than a year, her office said. The panel, known as the Director’s Initiative Group, was formed in April and focused on what she described as rooting out politicization in intelligence gathering, potential budget reductions and declassification questions. Gabbard said the effort was always intended to be temporary as she continues overseeing coordination across the nation’s 18 intelligence agencies.

Fannie Lou Hamer Medal of Freedom unveiled at Mississippi Civil Rights Museum

2026-02-12

Civil rights icon Fannie Lou Hamer’s Presidential Medal of Freedom was unveiled Tuesday at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum’s “I Question America” gallery, her family said. The medal, posthumously awarded by President Joe Biden in 2025, was donated to the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, officials said.

Canada bans assault-style firearms and freezes most handgun sales

2026-02-12

Canada’s government has renewed restrictions on firearms that include a ban on assault-style weapons and a national freeze on the sale, purchase and transfer of most handguns, while requiring owners of prohibited guns to dispose of or permanently deactivate them by Oct. 30. The measures include a compensation program for businesses that turned in certain weapons between November 2024 and April 2025 and a parallel program for individuals, which opened last month, to compensate gun owners who voluntarily surrender banned firearms.

Bangladesh holds first election since Hasina’s ouster, projections point to BNP

2026-02-12

Bangladesh held its first parliamentary election since mass protests toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2024, with voting largely peaceful on Thursday and turnout reaching more than 47% by 2 p.m. the Election Commission said. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, was projected to lead initial results, while Hasina’s Awami League—barred from the vote—rejected the election as a farce.

Helena investigated for potential Montana sanctuary-city ban violation

2026-02-12

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen said he is investigating Helena for possible violations of the state’s sanctuary city ban after the city passed a resolution discouraging cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Knudsen said Helena could face a fine of up to $10,000 for every five days it is found to be in violation of a 2021 state law requiring local cooperation with federal immigration agents.

ICE agent arrests raise questions on misconduct risk and oversight

2026-02-12

Investigators and experts cited by The Associated Press said several Immigration and Customs Enforcement employees and contractors have been arrested on charges including physical and sexual abuse, corruption and other abuses of authority. The AP review found that at least two dozen ICE personnel and contractors have been charged with crimes since 2020. The report comes as Congress approved last year a $75 billion increase to expand ICE staffing and detention capacity.

Kennedy Center head warns of staff cuts and “skeletal” teams during closure

2026-02-12

Richard Grenell, the president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, warned staff in a memo that the Kennedy Center expects cuts and “skeletal” staffing as it prepares to close for a two-year renovation. In the message, Grenell said departments would operate on a smaller scale, with some units reduced or paused before preparations to reopen in 2028.

Thousands flee Cambodia scam compounds but few shelters can help

2026-02-12

BANGKOK — Thousands of people have poured out of scam compounds in Cambodia after a government crackdown and mass releases, but many say they are finding little help once they escape. The Caritas shelter that supports victims who leave the compounds has been overwhelmed and has had to turn away more than 300 people, according to Mark Taylor, who works on human trafficking issues in Cambodia.

Howard Lutnick says he met Epstein twice after his 2008 conviction

2026-02-11

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick acknowledged during a Senate hearing Tuesday that he met Jeffrey Epstein twice after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor, reversing Lutnick’s earlier statements that he had cut ties with Epstein after 2005. Lutnick also told lawmakers he and his family had lunch with Epstein on Epstein’s private island in 2012 and had another engagement at Epstein’s home in 2011, while responding to questions after “Epstein files” case material and Democrats’ scrutiny.

ICE acting chief Todd Lyons questioned in Congress on immigration policies

2026-02-11

Todd Lyons, the acting head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, faced sharp questions in a House Homeland Security Committee hearing Tuesday about the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement operations. Lyons and other agency leaders declined to answer some questions about two shooting deaths in Minneapolis, saying investigations were ongoing, and he also rejected calls to require officers to remove masks.

Walz says federal immigration crackdown in Minnesota could end soon

2026-02-11

Gov. Tim Walz said Tuesday that he expects the federal immigration crackdown in Minnesota will end in “days, not weeks and months,” based on recent conversations with top Trump administration officials. Walz said he spoke Monday with border czar Tom Homan and Tuesday morning with White House chief of staff Susie Wiles, and he urged the administration to conclude the operation quickly.

FBI affidavit says it seized Fulton County 2020 ballots tied to old fraud claims

2026-02-11

The FBI relied on years-old claims about the 2020 presidential election when it sought a warrant to seize ballots and election records from Fulton County, Georgia, an affidavit unsealed this week shows. The case began after a referral from Kurt Olsen, who the affidavit says advised President Donald Trump and now oversees his election “security and integrity” efforts. Fulton County officials said the accusations have been debunked and vowed to fight the matter in court.

Egypt parliament approves cabinet reshuffle, naming 13 new ministers

2026-02-11

Egypt’s parliament approved President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s cabinet reshuffle on Tuesday, approving new ministers for 13 portfolios as the country grapples with an ailing economy and pressure from regional conflicts. The reshuffle kept key posts, including foreign affairs and defense, unchanged, according to the president’s office.

Trump EPA set to rescind 2009 endangerment finding underpinning climate rules

2026-02-11

The Trump administration will revoke a 2009 government finding that concluded greenhouse gases endanger public health and welfare, the White House said. The Environmental Protection Agency plans to issue a final rule rescinding the finding on Thursday, with President Donald Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin set to formalize the change at a ceremony.

GOP lawmakers question telecoms on Jack Smith phone-record subpoenas

2026-02-11

Republican lawmakers questioned telecommunications officials at a Senate Judiciary subcommittee hearing about what they said were invasive tactics in Special Counsel Jack Smith’s investigation of President Donald Trump. Lawmakers pressed representatives from Verizon and other companies about how prosecutors obtained phone records for certain sitting members of Congress.

ICE acting chief defends officers before Congress after deaths of 2 protesters

2026-02-11

Todd Lyons, the acting head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, defended agency tactics before Congress Tuesday, saying officers conducting immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump’s agenda “will not be intimidated” even after the deaths of two Americans in shootings involving federal officers.

Judge blocks California mask ban for federal immigration agents

2026-02-11

A federal judge blocked a California law that would have barred federal immigration enforcement agents from wearing face masks while on duty, but ruled the agents must wear clear identification showing their agency and badge number. The ruling, issued by U.S. District Judge Christina A. Snyder, takes effect immediately and allows the state to require visible identification.

Navy Adm. Daryl Caudle urges force built for crises, not carriers

2026-02-11

U.S. Navy Adm. Daryl Caudle, the service’s top uniformed officer, is urging commanders to rely more on smaller, newer ships and tailored task packages for missions instead of defaulting to aircraft carriers in crises. Speaking to The Associated Press, he said his “Fighting Instructions” aim to make naval deployments more flexible as threats develop. The approach comes as the Trump administration has repositioned aircraft carriers and other ships to address emerging concerns, including in the Caribbean and the Middle East.

Vance deletes “Armenian genocide” post after Armenia memorial visit

2026-02-11

U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s team posted and then deleted a message on social media referring to the “Armenian genocide” during the vice president’s visit to an official memorial in Armenia, the Associated Press reported Feb. 10. The post was replaced with another message that, AP said, highlighted Vance and Usha Vance laying flowers and what he wrote in the guest book.

Colombia’s Petro asks top court to lift tax decree freeze amid floods

2026-02-11

Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro asked the country’s highest court to lift a suspension of an economic emergency decree that would let his government raise taxes without congressional approval, as floods in northern provinces killed at least 14 and displaced about 69,000 people.

Governors call off White House dinner after Trump excludes Democrats

2026-02-11

WASHINGTON (AP) — An annual gathering of U.S. governors is unraveling after President Donald Trump excluded Democratic governors from White House events, the National Governors Association said and Democratic governors announced a boycott. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, the NGA chair, wrote that the White House planned to invite only Republican governors to the association’s annual business meeting and associated White House event.

Trump administration plans to hold back $1.5B+ grants from 4 Democratic states

2026-02-11

President Donald Trump’s administration is planning to withhold some public health and transportation grant money from California, Colorado, Illinois and Minnesota, The Associated Press reported. An Office of Management and Budget official told AP that the federal government is asking the Transportation Department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to cancel grants totaling more than $1.5 billion.

Trump administration removes rainbow flag from Stonewall National Monument

2026-02-11

The Trump administration stopped flying a rainbow flag at the Stonewall National Monument in New York, according to the National Park Service. The removal angered LGBTQ+ activists who view it as a symbolic swipe at the nation’s first monument to LGBTQ+ history. The park service said it was complying with guidance that restricts which flags may be flown on the property.

Trump administration cuts CFPB enforcement, costing consumers $19B report says

2026-02-11

One year after the Trump administration took control of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, consumer advocates and Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s office say the agency has retreated from enforcement and regulatory work—costing Americans at least $19 billion in financial relief, according to a report provided to The Associated Press. The authors say the bureau harmed consumers by abandoning major protections, stalling investigations, and dismissing lawsuits.

TVA signals it prefers keeping Kingston and Cumberland coal plants open

2026-02-11

Tennessee Valley Authority said it now prefers to keep operating two coal-fired plants in Tennessee that it had planned to shut down, according to new filings ahead of a board meeting. The utility said regulatory changes and growing electricity demand are pushing it to rethink closure dates for Kingston Fossil Plant and Cumberland Fossil Plant, even as it plans to add more natural gas generation at the sites.

White House says Trump can amend permit for Gordie Howe bridge

2026-02-11

President Donald Trump has the right to amend a permit for the Gordie Howe International Bridge, the White House said Feb. 10, escalating a dispute with Canada even after Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was confident the matter would be resolved. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the U.S. president objects to the bridge’s ownership structure and wants more American-made materials.

Rare GOP win possible in California governor race as Democrats split votes

2026-02-11

Los Angeles—California Democrats face a possible vote-splitting scenario in the June primary for governor that could let Republicans finish in the top two spots and advance to November, a Democratic consultant said. The uncertainty comes from California’s “top two” primary system, in which only the two highest vote-getters—regardless of party—advance to the general election.

Colombian prosecutors move to charge Ecopetrol president Ricardo Roa

2026-02-11

The Colombian Attorney General’s Office said it will file corruption charges against Ricardo Roa, the president of state-run oil company Ecopetrol, over conduct prosecutors say dates to his role as campaign manager for President Gustavo Petro. Prosecutors also said Roa will face an influence-peddling case tied to Ecopetrol contracts.

Immigrant groups seek to dismiss Missouri bid to exclude noncitizens from census

2026-02-11

Immigrant rights groups asked a federal court to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway that seeks to prevent the U.S. Census Bureau from counting people in the country illegally during the 2030 census. The groups, represented by multiple ACLU Foundation chapters, said the bid would violate the law and force a costly recount using 2020 census figures.

Democrats accuse Trump of hijacking America’s 250th anniversary celebrations

2026-02-11

Congressional Democrats accused the Trump administration of trying to take control of plans for America’s 250th anniversary, including by using the National Park Foundation to solicit private donations for the president’s priorities, during a House hearing Tuesday. Rep. Jared Huffman said President Donald Trump and allies are trying to “promote an alternate reality,” while Republicans defended the effort as a patriotic reminder of progress.

Venezuelan opposition ally Guanipa returned to house arrest after release

2026-02-11

Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Pablo Guanipa, a close ally of opposition leader María Corina Machado, was placed under house arrest after his family said he was released from prison two days earlier. His son, Ramón Guanipa, said armed men intercepted him and other opposition figures hours after a Sunday release that came as Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez faced international and domestic pressure to free political detainees.

US to expand passport revocations for parents who owe child support

2026-02-11

The Trump administration plans to expand a federal program that revokes U.S. passports for parents who owe substantial child support, The Associated Press reported. U.S. officials told AP that the State Department will begin initiating revocations based on data shared by the Health and Human Services Department rather than waiting for people to request passport services.

Malinowski concedes to Mejia in New Jersey House special primary

2026-02-11

Tom Malinowski conceded Tuesday to Analilia Mejia in the Democratic primary for New Jersey’s U.S. House special election, according to the Associated Press. The primary is being held to replace Mikie Sherrill, who left the seat to become governor.

Biden pardoned Alex Saab again targeted by U.S. criminal probe

2026-02-11

Less than three years after President Joe Biden pardoned Alex Saab, a close ally of Venezuela’s former President Nicolás Maduro, the Justice Department is once again investigating the businessman, according to two former law enforcement officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. Federal prosecutors have been examining Saab’s alleged role in a bribery conspiracy involving Venezuelan government contracts tied to imports of food staples under Maduro’s CLAP program.

Federal judge dismisses DOJ bid to obtain Michigan voter rolls

2026-02-11

A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit brought by the U.S. Department of Justice seeking detailed access to Michigan’s voter rolls, an additional rejection in the administration’s efforts to obtain state voter data. In an opinion issued Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Hala Y. Jarbou said the federal laws cited by the Justice Department do not require Michigan to disclose the records sought.

Advocacy groups urge California to remove covert license plate readers

2026-02-11

More than two dozen privacy and advocacy organizations on Tuesday urged California Gov. Gavin Newsom to remove a network of covert license plate readers deployed across Southern California, saying the devices feed data into a U.S. Border Patrol predictive intelligence program. The groups said they have identified dozens of readers in San Diego and Imperial counties, including units hidden in construction barrels.

Anti-government protests in Albania’s capital turn violent

2026-02-11

Riots broke out Tuesday night in central Tirana during a demonstration by thousands of opposition supporters demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government resign, according to the Associated Press. Riot police fired tear gas and water cannon at protesters who threw Molotov cocktails and flares, and police said 16 protesters were treated at a hospital for burns and other injuries.

UN says it’s waiting on U.S. plan to pay nearly $4 billion in arrears

2026-02-11

The United Nations said Monday it is waiting to learn how much the United States plans to pay of nearly $4 billion in arrears and when the money will arrive. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned last week that the world body could face “imminent financial collapse” unless its financial rules are overhauled or member nations pay their dues.

US citizens detained in Idaho immigration raid claim unconstitutional tactics

2026-02-11

Three Idaho families who are U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents are suing over an aggressive immigration raid at a rural horse racing track in October, saying federal and state agencies used unconstitutional tactics and detained people for hours. They allege officers detained people based on whether they appeared Latino, kept adults and some children in zip ties for hours without access to food, water or bathrooms, and searched individuals without reasonable suspicion. The lawsuit seeks class-action status, a declaration of civil-rights violations and damages.

Masks in ICE operations become flashpoint as DHS shutdown deadline nears

2026-02-10

Federal immigration officers’ use of face masks has become a flashpoint in Congress as lawmakers weigh Homeland Security funding ahead of a partial shutdown deadline. Democrats are demanding “masks off” federal officers taking part in ICE operations, and are also pressing for body cameras, while ICE says officers wear masks to prevent doxing and that they identify themselves when required.

Officials deny seeking end to asylum claims for 5-year-old Liam Ramos

2026-02-10

Federal immigration authorities have denied they tried to expedite the end of asylum proceedings for a Minneapolis family that includes a 5-year-old boy, Liam Conejo Ramos. The denials came after images of the child in a bunny hat and Spider-Man backpack were shared during a detention that drew outrage in the area.

Prolonged ICE detention rises in Trump’s second term, advocates say

2026-02-10

Prolonged immigration detention has become more common during President Donald Trump’s second term, with detainees and lawyers describing extended waits for immigration judges and worsening conditions in facilities in Florida, Texas and California. In one case, Nicaraguan asylum-seeker Felipe Hernandez Espinosa spent more than six months in custody before receiving a hearing date of Feb. 26, according to the Associated Press.

Susan Collins announces bid for sixth term in pivotal Maine Senate race

2026-02-10

Republican Sen. Susan Collins announced her bid for reelection Tuesday in a Maine Senate race Democrats hope will help them win back control of the U.S. Senate. Collins, who has held the seat for five terms, faces a renewed Democratic challenge amid criticism tied to a recent immigration enforcement operation in Maine and her voting record on Homeland Security funding.

Congress seeks DHS funding deal as Democrats press ICE reform demands

2026-02-10

Congressional leaders said Tuesday a deal could still be reached with the White House on funding for the Department of Homeland Security before it expires this weekend, but Democrats and Republicans remained far apart. Democrats said they have rejected a White House counteroffer and are seeking new restrictions tied to how ICE and other federal officers conduct operations. With a shutdown threatening to start Saturday, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries laid out demands including judicial warrants, officer identification, and changes to use-of-force rules.

Takaichi seeks conservative overhaul after election delivers 2/3 majority

2026-02-10

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi moved Monday to convert election gains into a new conservative push after her Liberal Democratic Party won a two-thirds supermajority in parliamentary elections the day before. The LDP alone captured 316 seats in Japan’s lower house, giving the governing coalition 352 seats and setting up votes next week on her return as prime minister.

Hawaii DOE trip spending lacks details lawmakers said they need

2026-02-10

Hawaii lawmakers criticized the state Department of Education for providing incomplete records on nearly $4 million in employee travel during 2025, saying the reports omit required information about attendees, trip purposes, and funding sources. The department later submitted more than 200 pages of travel documents dated from January through November 2025, but lawmakers said the submission filled out only part of the categories they requested.

Gabbard’s office warns attorney against sharing classified complaint with Congress

2026-02-10

In a letter Monday, the general counsel for Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard warned an attorney for an anonymous government employee not to directly share a top-secret complaint about Gabbard’s handling of classified material with members of Congress. The dispute centers on allegations that Gabbard withheld top-secret information for political reasons, which two intelligence community inspectors general reviewed and said did not appear credible, according to a memo to lawmakers.

Ghislaine Maxwell invokes Fifth Amendment in House deposition

2026-02-10

Ghislaine Maxwell, the former girlfriend of Jeffrey Epstein, declined to answer questions from House lawmakers during a video deposition Monday, invoking her Fifth Amendment right to silence. She said that if President Donald Trump ended her prison sentence, she would be willing to testify about what she described as wrongdoing involving Trump and Bill Clinton in their connections to Epstein.

Democrats accuse Trump administration of hijacking America’s 250th celebrations

2026-02-10

Democrats on Tuesday accused the Trump administration of trying to hijack plans to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and of using the nonprofit National Park Foundation to solicit private donations for the president’s projects, including a planned national arch in Washington. The accusations came during a House hearing on the 250th anniversary commemoration before a subcommittee of the House Committee on Natural Resources.

Crowded Democrats in California governor race could open rare GOP path

2026-02-10

Democrats in California’s governor’s race face a rare ballot math problem under the state’s “top two” primary system, which allows only the top two finishers—regardless of party—to advance. An AP analysis says the party’s crowded field raises the possibility that two Republicans could reach the November general election, a scenario that would be a political shock for a state that has been reliably Democratic statewide for years.

Two men convicted in 2022 Michigan election petition scandal

2026-02-10

Two men were convicted Monday in a Michigan election petition scandal tied to bogus signatures that derailed Republican candidates’ bids for the 2022 governor’s race. The Michigan Attorney General’s office said the scheme used forged signatures to keep candidates off the GOP primary ballot, and it said the fraud denied voters a choice in that election.

GOP in Georgia still rocked by alleged $140M Ponzi scheme

2026-02-10

Seven months after the collapse of an alleged $140 million Ponzi scheme involving First Liberty Building & Loan, investors in Georgia say they are impatient to recover their money. On Monday, some told Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger that the losses have upended plans for retirement and religious missions, as state and federal officials pursue fraud-related actions.

Misconduct charges against ICE employees and contractors

2026-02-10

A review by The Associated Press found that at least two dozen Immigration and Customs Enforcement employees and contractors have been charged with crimes since 2020, including alleged physical and sexual abuse and misuse of authority. The AP said ICE’s rapid expansion after Congress last year approved $75 billion for the agency could increase the risk of further abuses as more officers join and carry out enforcement. Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said wrongdoing is not widespread and that ICE takes allegations seriously.

Hong Kong ex-media boss Jimmy Lai sentenced, prompting press-freedom grief

2026-02-10

Hong Kong’s former Apple Daily publisher Jimmy Lai was sentenced Monday to 20 years in prison under a Beijing-imposed national security law, a move former staff and readers described as a deep blow to the city’s press freedom. Lai, 78, and six other former Apple Daily journalists received prison terms ranging from six years and nine months to 10 years.

Video recovered from Nest camera in Nancy Guthrie case raises privacy questions

2026-02-10

In the kidnapping case of Nancy Guthrie, investigators released video surveillance footage showing an armed, masked person at Guthrie’s doorstep on the night she was abducted, but details about how the footage resurfaced have raised questions about privacy and technology. The FBI said investigators worked for days to pull the videos from “residual data located in backend systems,” after earlier accounts said the camera was disconnected and that Guthrie had no subscription to the camera company.

Recently released Machado ally faces arrest again in Venezuela

2026-02-10

Venezuela’s top prosecutor ordered the arrest of opposition leader María Corina Machado’s ally Juan Pablo Guanipa hours after he was released from detention, according to authorities and relatives. The attorney general’s office said it asked a court to revoke the precautionary measure that had governed Guanipa’s release and sought house arrest. Juan Pablo Guanipa’s son, Ramón Guanipa, said armed men intercepted his father after their release from a Caracas facility late Sunday.

US governors focus on affordability in state addresses as prices bite

2026-02-10

In speeches to legislatures this month, governors across the U.S. have put affordability at the center of their agendas, citing worries from voters about the cost of groceries, utilities, child care and housing. The approaches range from relief checks and tax changes to efforts to expand housing and reduce electricity and gas bills.

Efforts to add early voting sites at NC universities denied by judge

2026-02-10

A federal judge in North Carolina rejected requests to open early voting sites at three public universities ahead of the state’s March 3 primary, turning away a bid by Democratic Party-linked plaintiffs. U.S. District Judge William Osteen denied a request for a preliminary injunction or temporary restraining order sought by the College Democrats of North Carolina and students.

Mali junta arrests journalist for criticizing Niger leader, HRW says

2026-02-10

Malian authorities arrested Youssouf Sissoko, editor-in-chief of the weekly newspaper L’Alternance, after he questioned accusations by Niger’s military ruler, Human Rights Watch said. HRW said Sissoko was arrested at his home in Bamako on Feb. 5 and was charged and ordered held in pretrial custody, in a case that rights groups say reflects shrinking civic space amid the security crisis in West Africa.

Many dead or missing after migrant boat sinks off Libya

2026-02-10

Two babies were among at least 53 people dead or missing after an inflatable migrant boat sank off Libya, the U.N.’s migration agency said on Monday. The boat with 55 African migrants left the western town of Zawaiya shortly before midnight Thursday, then capsized north of Zuwara on Friday morning.

Trump Beijing trip seen as crucial for Jimmy Lai’s release, family says

2026-02-10

Jimmy Lai’s children said Monday that a possible April visit by President Donald Trump to Beijing could be “crucial” in securing the release of their 78-year-old father. Lai, a former Hong Kong media executive and China critic, was sentenced to 20 years in prison after convictions under a Beijing-imposed national security law.

Affordable Oahu rentals sit empty as debate grows over Bill 7

2026-02-10

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said last year that new city-subsidized affordable housing was “incredibly needed.” But nearly 10 months after an affordable Oahu apartment building opened for final steps, no residents have moved in, and city lawmakers are now weighing whether to scale back or extend the incentives program behind such projects.

Butler to launch deaf education master’s draws concerns from Deaf community

2026-02-10

Butler University plans to launch an online master’s program in deaf education this fall, funded through a $1.25-million U.S. Department of Education grant, but Deaf community members say the curriculum emphasizes spoken language over American Sign Language. In comments relayed through interpreters, educators and advocates said they want more ASL coursework required for future teachers. Program director Jenna Voss said the degree is designed to prepare teachers to support families with different communication options and that it does not bar ASL learning.

Fact check: ICE detainee was not child shown with Bad Bunny

2026-02-10

Social media posts falsely identified a boy in Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show as a 5-year-old detained by ICE in Minnesota. An AP fact check found the boy was instead Lincoln Fox Ramadan, a child actor from California, according to his Instagram.

In Connecticut, opposition to Iroquois gas expansion crosses party lines

2026-02-10

Brookfield, Connecticut, is seeing resistance to a proposed $272 million compression upgrade to the Iroquois Gas Transmission System that, residents and officials say, would increase noise, emissions and safety risks near a middle school. State Sen. Stephen Harding, a Republican who represents Brookfield, said he wants a full, transparent process that gives every constituent an ability to object, and he said the project should not be approved. Despite that pushback, Connecticut regulators have issued draft approvals while the state awaits final air-permit decisions, with litigation and calls for tighter scrutiny under way.

Minnesotans crowdsource rent aid for immigrant families amid ICE pressure

2026-02-10

Minnesotans have launched a rapid wave of rent-relief efforts aimed at immigrant families facing eviction, as ongoing enforcement by ICE and other federal law enforcement keeps some residents from working. The Associated Press reports that Minneapolis resident Ashley Fairbanks started a social-media campaign that helped pay 12 families’ rent within hours and grew to dozens more within a day.

Reports of immigration agents in disguise stoke fears in Minnesota

2026-02-10

Minnesota residents and local advocates say federal immigration officers have impersonated construction workers, delivery drivers and others amid an immigration crackdown, including an encounter in the suburbs where a restaurant worker confronted two men he believed were pretending to be utility workers. A Homeland Security and ICE spokesperson did not respond to questions about whether the men were federal agents. Legal observers say the reports—some not verified—are increasing distrust and confusion about law enforcement activity.

Super Bowl ads aim to ease stress with health messages, AI and nostalgia

2026-02-10

Super Bowl advertisers leaned into health, caring and familiar entertainment themes as Americans faced a tense start to the year, according to marketing experts cited by The Associated Press. The commercials also highlighted the rapid spread of artificial intelligence and continued the long-running tradition of celebrity and nostalgia-driven storytelling.

Trump’s immigration agenda sparks political storm at Winter Olympics

2026-02-10

At the Winter Olympics in Milan, U.S. athletes’ remarks about President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda have become a point of political contention as the games opened. Vice President JD Vance called the event “one of the few things that unites the entire country,” but that message was quickly challenged after American skier Hunter Hess spoke about “mixed emotions” over representing the U.S.

Lombardo’s 2025 fundraising leaned on bundling to exceed limits

2026-02-10

Gov. Joe Lombardo’s 2025 gubernatorial campaign raised $4.3 million, and analysis reviewed by The Nevada Independent and reported by The Associated Press says a large share relied on “bundling” arrangements that can skirt Nevada’s individual contribution limits by using multiple names and entities. The comparisons with Democratic rival Aaron Ford and Washoe County Commissioner Alexis Hill highlight how campaign finance structure, rather than direct checks, shaped who influenced the races.

California union seeks to make remote work permanent for state workers

2026-02-10

California’s Professional Engineers in California Government union is pushing legislation that would require state agencies to offer work-from-home options “to the fullest extent possible” for eligible employees as Gov. Gavin Newsom’s mandate requires most workers to be in the office four days a week starting July 1. The bill, authored by Assemblymember Alex Lee, would also require a dashboard tracking annual savings from remote work, the union said.

Children vote for fictional characters at Portugal presidential election

2026-02-09

Children accompanying parents to polling stations in Lisbon were allowed to cast votes in Portugal’s presidential election Sunday, but their ballots listed popular fictional characters rather than the official runoff candidates. Parents described the exercise as a way to teach their children about civic participation.

Trump faces rare GOP blowback over post depicting Obamas as primates

2026-02-08

President Donald Trump drew rare GOP blowback from Republican lawmakers over a video posted to social media that depicted former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, as primates. Multiple senators and House members urged Trump to remove the post after it spread among conservatives and included racist imagery alongside disputed claims about the 2020 election.

Fifth Circuit backs Trump administration on immigrant detention without bond

2026-02-08

A federal appeals court ruled Friday that the Trump administration can detain some immigrants without bond hearings, a decision that preserves a key element of the administration’s immigration enforcement agenda. In a 2-1 ruling, judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit said the Department of Homeland Security properly interpreted federal immigration law to bar bond for “unadmitted aliens” arrested anywhere in the United States.

Judge orders Trump administration to return 3 deported families

2026-02-08

A federal judge in San Diego ordered the Trump administration to return three families deported to Honduras after the government said they had left the United States voluntarily, according to a court order. The judge said the deportations were based on “lies, deception and coercion,” and required the government to pay for the families’ return travel costs.

Trump administration launches TrumpRx website for discounted prescription drugs

2026-02-08

The Trump administration launched the TrumpRx website on Thursday, presenting it as a way to help Americans buy prescription drugs at discounted rates amid rising health-care costs. President Donald Trump said at the site’s unveiling that Americans “’re going to save a fortune,” and the administration said the government-hosted site will point users to drugmakers’ direct-to-consumer purchasing pages and pharmacy coupons.

Italy makes art tours more accessible for blind and low-vision visitors

2026-02-08

Italy is expanding efforts to make art and tourist sites more accessible to people who are blind or have low vision, including using tactile models, braille signage and audio guides. The Associated Press reported examples from Rome, Pompeii, Florence and Ancona, highlighting how guides and museums are adapting museum visits and sightseeing experiences.

Health costs top Democrats’ midterm message as ACA subsidies expire

2026-02-08

Democrats are emphasizing health care ahead of the November midterm elections, portraying higher premiums and coverage losses as central to President Donald Trump’s agenda and to congressional Republicans’ record. At a rally in Georgia attended by more than 1,000 people, U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff said Trump’s policies helped push insurance premiums higher for millions and left hundreds of thousands in his state without coverage. Republicans argue they are addressing affordability by cutting health spending and targeting what they call waste, fraud and abuse, and they say Democratic proposals would amount to more money for a broken system.

Yemen ruling council names new cabinet after southern clashes

2026-02-08

Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council named a new cabinet, a step announced in a presidential decree published by state-run SABA late Friday, officials reported. The announcement came weeks after deadly clashes in Yemen’s south, the dissolution of the separatist Southern Transitional Council, and renewed tensions within the Saudi-led coalition fighting the Iranian-aligned Houthis.

Clarke says intent to harm in Trump’s Obama post after deletion

2026-02-08

Congressional Black Caucus chair Rep. Yvette Clarke said a video posted to President Donald Trump’s social media account showed “intent to harm people, to hurt people,” after the post was deleted Friday. In an interview with The Associated Press, Clarke said the White House’s shifting explanations—from dismissing “fake outrage” to deleting the post and blaming a staff member—did not match what she said the video conveyed.

Netanyahu-Trump meeting about Iran scheduled for Wednesday

2026-02-08

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday to discuss American talks with Iran, Netanyahu’s office said Saturday. In the meantime, Iran’s foreign minister warned that the country could retaliate by targeting U.S. bases in the region if the United States attacks.

Emails challenge RFK Jr. testimony on Samoa trip before measles outbreak

2026-02-08

Newly obtained emails have raised questions about what Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told U.S. senators about a 2019 trip to Samoa before a measles outbreak there, The Associated Press reported Tuesday. During Senate confirmation hearings for Kennedy’s role as President Donald Trump’s health secretary, Kennedy repeatedly said, “My purpose in going down there had nothing to do with vaccines,” and later replied, “Nothing to do with vaccines.” The newly disclosed messages include contemporaneous accounts suggesting vaccine-safety concerns motivated the visit, and they show U.S. Embassy staffers played a role in arranging the trip.

Social media floods posts in search for Savannah Guthrie’s mother

2026-02-08

Social media users are sharing timelines, photos, and theories as authorities continue searching for Nancy Guthrie, the mother of “Today” host Savannah Guthrie, who police believe was taken from her home outside Tucson, Arizona, about a week ago. As the search draws national attention, law enforcement officials and experts warn that online speculation can also spread misinformation and harm investigations.

A look at Sanae Takaichi after electoral landslide solidifies her power

2026-02-08

Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s prime minister, has consolidated power after her Liberal Democratic Party made big gains in a snap vote for the lower house, helped in large part by her. The Associated Press profile portrays her popularity with younger voters and her image as both tough and playful, alongside her hawkish and conservative political approach shaped by her mentor Shinzo Abe.

Los Angeles mayoral race opens for Karen Bass amid wildfire fallout

2026-02-08

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is heading into a challenging reelection bid as she seeks to lead the city through continuing backlash over last year’s deadly Palisades wildfire and persistent criticism of City Hall on homelessness and day-to-day services. The filing deadline for candidates to enter the contest is Saturday ahead of the June 2 primary election.

Judge orders Trump administration to restore $16B Gateway rail tunnel funding

2026-02-08

A federal judge in Manhattan ordered the Trump administration to restore $16 billion in funding for a new rail tunnel between New York and New Jersey, as construction was set to shut down. The ruling followed a funding freeze announced in the wake of a government shutdown and was sought by New York and New Jersey to keep money flowing while their lawsuit proceeds.

Trump deletes racist post depicting Obamas as primates after backlash

2026-02-08

President Donald Trump deleted a 62-second racist video post featuring former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama as primates in a jungle after backlash from Republicans and Democrats, the Associated Press reported. The White House later said the video was posted erroneously by a staffer, after press secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissed criticism as “fake outrage.” Trump said Friday aboard Air Force One that he would not apologize, telling reporters: “I didn’t make a mistake.”

Nevada lawmakers grill Musk’s Boring Company over Vegas Loop safety, environment

2026-02-08

Nevada lawmakers questioned state regulators on Tuesday about alleged workplace safety and environmental violations tied to Elon Musk’s Boring Company and its “Vegas Loop,” a tunnel network that ferries passengers around the Las Vegas Convention Center. The lawmakers spent hours grilling safety officials over violations the company has faced, while company representatives submitted written answers defending the project.

Washington Post publisher Will Lewis says he's stepping down

2026-02-08

Washington Post publisher Will Lewis said Saturday that he is stepping down, days after the newspaper laid off one-third of its staff. Lewis said his departure will follow a two-year transformation, and the paper’s chief financial officer, Jeff D’Onofrio, was appointed temporary publisher.

Washington Post cuts a third of staff, eliminating sports and other sections

2026-02-08

The Washington Post laid off one-third of its staff on Wednesday, including eliminating its sports section and cutting several foreign bureaus and its books coverage, the Associated Press reported. Executive editor Matt Murray said the changes were painful but necessary as the paper seeks to put itself on a stronger footing amid shifts in technology and audience habits.

Trump reopens Atlantic ocean monument to commercial fishing

2026-02-08

PORTLAND, Maine — President Donald Trump issued a proclamation Friday to reopen a protected area in the Atlantic Ocean off New England to commercial fishing, rolling back marine protections created under former President Barack Obama and restored under President Joe Biden. Trump said the change would allow appropriately managed fishing without threatening the monument’s historic and scientific objects.

EPA reapproves dicamba for genetically modified soybeans and cotton

2026-02-08

The Environmental Protection Agency reapproved the weed killer dicamba for use on genetically modified soybeans and cotton, approving over-the-top spraying for two major crops in the United States. The EPA said it imposed new protections, including limits tied to application conditions and buffer zones, to manage drift risk. Advocates criticized the decision, saying recent court setbacks in 2020 and 2024 prevented similar expansions and that tighter rules do not address environmental harm.

Meta accused in New Mexico trial of failing to protect children online

2026-02-08

Meta is on trial in New Mexico over allegations that it failed to protect children from sexual exploitation on social media, and that it prioritized growth and engagement over youth safety. Prosecutors said the company misrepresented what it knew about risks to children as the trial opened Monday in Santa Fe.

Cubans face deeper energy crisis after US moves to block oil supply

2026-02-08

Cuba’s energy crisis worsened after the United States moved to block oil deliveries, leaving Havana residents reporting that public buses stopped coming and gas lines and blackouts intensified. The change followed warnings from President Miguel Díaz-Canel that the U.S. effort would force further sacrifices, with Cuba saying the impact of sanctions has been severe since 2024.

DOJ Epstein records show inadequate privacy redactions, AP says

2026-02-08

Fotos de desnudos, nombres y otros datos personales de víctimas de abuso sexual relacionados con Jeffrey Epstein siguieron visibles en archivos del Departamento de Justicia de Estados Unidos publicados bajo una ley de divulgación, según una revisión realizada por The Associated Press y otras organizaciones periodísticas.

Haiti’s presidential council dissolves after stepping down on Feb. 7

2026-02-08

Haiti’s presidential council stepped down on Saturday after nearly two years overseeing a transition with a U.S.-backed prime minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, expected to remain in power. The move came days after the United States deployed a warship and Coast Guard boats near Port-au-Prince as gangs controlled much of the capital.

ICE beating allegation leads to calls for inquiry in Minnesota

2026-02-08

The case centers on Alberto Castañeda Mondragón, 31, who told the Associated Press he was badly beaten by U.S. immigration officers during an arrest in Minnesota on Jan. 8, suffering eight skull fractures and multiple life-threatening brain hemorrhages. ICE personnel told nurses he “purposefully ran headfirst into a brick wall,” but a CT scan showed injuries doctors said were inconsistent with a fall, according to court filings and medical records described by AP. The Department of Homeland Security has not responded to repeated requests for comment, and Minnesota elected officials and local prosecutors have urged further action.

Iranian beautician films violent crackdown on protests

2026-02-08

Iran’s security forces cracked down on nationwide anti-government protests in early January, and an Iranian beautician who filmed the violence is now hiding from fear, according to the Associated Press. The AP said it verified the location and authenticity of her videos in Karaj and received messages and footage she shared with a relative in Los Angeles during an internet shutdown.

Thailand’s Bhumjaithai leads election; coalition talks likely after vote

2026-02-08

Thailand’s conservative Bhumjaithai party led Sunday’s general election, with about 93% of polling stations reported in unofficial results from the state Election Commission, according to the commission’s running count. The party was projected to win about 194 seats in the 500-member House, short of the 251-seat majority needed for a one-party government.

Takaichi’s party wins Japan lower-house supermajority in snap election

2026-02-08

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s governing party won a two-thirds supermajority in elections for Japan’s lower house, Japanese media reported after preliminary results. The election gives Takaichi room to pursue conservative policy changes on security, defense, and immigration despite the lack of a majority in the upper house, the more powerful chamber for some oversight.

Trump endorses Nexstar’s $6.2 billion bid for Tegna after earlier criticism

2026-02-08

President Donald Trump on Saturday endorsed Nexstar Media Group’s $6.2 billion purchase of broadcast rival Tegna, signaling a shift from his earlier criticism of the deal. In a social media post, Trump argued the transaction would increase competition and help counter “Fake News” networks.

What to know about Moltbook, the AI agent “social network”

2026-02-08

Moltbook is a “social network” built for AI agents to post and interact, while humans observe, and its rapid growth has drawn attention from security researchers and AI experts. An AP report describes how the platform works and why researchers warn that data including API keys may be exposed. The report also highlights concerns about whether content can be reliably traced to genuine agents and not people posing as them.

Why Hispanic surnames from Spain and Latin America matter in the US

2026-02-08

U.S. documents often expect a single last name, but many people of Spanish and Latin American heritage use two surnames tied to both parents. An Associated Press explainer uses examples including Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny and Austin-based interpreter Susana Pimiento to show how that tradition can collide with U.S. forms and systems.

Kenyan e-bike riders call for battery network reforms

2026-02-08

Hundreds of electric motorcycle riders in Kenya are calling for more flexible battery-swap networks that they say would prevent riders from being stranded when they can’t access the right charging system. In posts and protests linked to the issue, rider advocates have also raised concerns that some motorcycles can be remotely disabled after inactivity, making standardized battery access more urgent.

Tourists, locals shut out of Milan’s Last Supper during Vance visit

2026-02-08

Tourists in Milan during the Winter Olympics who hoped to see Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” were unable to access the painting as the site closed to the public for 3 1/2 days, ending Feb. 8 morning. The restrictions came as U.S. Vice President JD Vance and other Olympic-era VIP groups were allowed in on Saturday, according to the vice president’s office and others.

Crockett and Talarico target voters with distinct digital strategies

2026-02-08

Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico are facing off in the Democratic U.S. Senate primary in Texas on March 3, with both campaigns leaning heavily on viral social media moments to win attention and fundraising. The Associated Press reports Crockett’s most-watched TikTok clip—an outside-the-Capitol exchange that includes a vulgar two-word reply—has been viewed 20.7 million times, while Talarico’s top video, from a speech-style clip about politics, has drawn 15.5 million views.

Why Trump wants home prices to stay high amid midterm housing fight

2026-02-07

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is arguing against policies that would increase housing supply to lower home prices, instead warning that making homes cheaper could reduce values for existing owners. His approach is becoming a central theme ahead of the November midterm elections, a period when voters across age groups have repeatedly cited housing affordability as a top concern.

Lawmakers to review unredacted Epstein files at DOJ starting Monday

2026-02-07

The U.S. Department of Justice will let members of Congress review unredacted versions of Jeffrey Epstein-related files it released under a transparency law, starting Monday, according to a letter to lawmakers. Access will require 24 hours’ notice and will be limited to reviewing the documents on Justice Department computers, with lawmakers allowed to take notes but not make electronic copies.

Trump administration can’t withhold social service funds from 5 states

2026-02-07

A federal judge ruled that President Donald Trump’s administration must keep flowing child care subsidies and other social service money to five Democratic-controlled states at least for now. U.S. District Judge Vernon Broderick in New York granted the states a preliminary injunction and a stay after the states sued over the administration’s decision to withhold funds tied to programs that support low-income families.

Arizona judge blocks old abortion limits conflicting with 2024 ballot amendment

2026-02-07

Phoenix-area Maricopa Superior Court Judge Greg Como ruled Friday that Arizona must stop enforcing older abortion restrictions that predate and conflict with a 2024 voter-approved constitutional amendment guaranteeing abortion rights. Como ordered the state to halt enforcement of provisions that he said create unnecessary obstacles for patients and restrict how medication abortions can be provided.

North Korea to hold key Workers' Party congress in late February

2026-02-07

North Korea will convene a major political conference later this month, state media said, as leader Kim Jong Un is expected to outline domestic and foreign policy goals for the next five years. The ruling Workers’ Party congress is scheduled for late February, South Korea and other regional governments and analysts said, amid years of accelerated nuclear and missile development and deeper ties with Russia over the war in Ukraine.

Federal government faces deadline in Minnesota ICE facility case

2026-02-07

Federal attorneys face a deadline next week to reach an agreement with human-rights lawyers over access to legal counsel for people detained at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Minnesota, a judge said. U.S. District Judge Nancy Brasel set the deadline after hearing arguments Friday from both sides, including conflicting claims about whether detainees can meet with lawyers and make calls without ICE monitoring.

Iran sentences Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi to more prison time

2026-02-07

Iran sentenced Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi to more than seven years in prison after she began a hunger strike, supporters said Sunday. Her lawyer, Mostafa Nili, said the sentence was handed down Saturday by a Revolutionary Court in Mashhad and includes additional prison time and internal exile.

Iran sentences Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi to more jail time

2026-02-07

Iran sentenced Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi to at least seven more years in prison after she went on a hunger strike, according to her supporters and her lawyer. Mohammadi’s case is unfolding as Iranian authorities crack down on dissent following nationwide protests and as Tehran and Washington trade hardline statements over uranium enrichment.

Israel security cabinet approves measures to tighten West Bank control

2026-02-07

Israel’s security cabinet approved measures aimed at strengthening Israeli control over the occupied West Bank and reducing the Palestinian Authority’s limited powers, the Associated Press reported. The decisions were announced Sunday by the office of Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called the steps dangerous, while Jordan’s foreign ministry condemned them as an attempt to impose illegal sovereignty.

Venezuela releases jailed opposition as acting President faces pressure

2026-02-07

Venezuela’s government on Sunday released several prominent opposition members from prison, including Juan Pablo Guanipa, a close ally of Nobel Peace Prize laureate María Corina Machado. The moves come as acting President Delcy Rodríguez faces growing pressure to free hundreds of people detained over their political activities and after a visit to Venezuela by U.N. human-rights officials.

Nigeria’s Tinubu to visit the U.K. in March for state visit

2026-02-07

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu will make a state visit to the United Kingdom on March 18 and 19, Buckingham Palace said. The trip will be the first state visit by a Nigerian leader to the U.K. in almost four decades, the palace said.

Moderate Seguro beats populist Ventura in Portugal runoff presidential vote

2026-02-07

António José Seguro, the center-left Socialist candidate, won emphatically in Portugal’s presidential runoff Sunday, according to official results with 99% of votes counted. Seguro received 66.7% of the vote, defeating hard-right populist André Ventura, who won 33.3%, as Portugal seeks stability after political turmoil earlier this year.

French cultural official Jack Lang resigns over Epstein-linked tax investigation

2026-02-07

France’s former culture minister Jack Lang resigned as head of a Paris cultural center after he was summoned by the French Foreign Ministry over an Epstein-linked tax fraud investigation. His lawyer said Lang denied the allegations. Financial prosecutors said they opened an investigation into Lang and his daughter over alleged “aggravated tax fraud laundering,” after U.S. Justice Department files about Jeffrey Epstein were released Jan. 30.

Starmer’s chief of staff quits over Mandelson–Epstein ambassador furor

2026-02-07

Keir Starmer’s chief of staff resigned Sunday over controversy surrounding Peter Mandelson’s appointment as Britain’s ambassador to the United States, after documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein raised questions about Mandelson’s conduct. Morgan McSweeney said in a statement that advising Starmer to make the appointment was wrong and that he takes full responsibility. The move comes as Starmer faces renewed scrutiny of his judgment and as Metropolitan Police investigated potential misconduct in public office.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog begins Australia visit amid Gaza-linked tensions

2026-02-07

Israeli President Isaac Herzog is set to begin a four-day state visit to Australia on Monday, as the government says he is traveling to meet Jewish communities grieving the December Bondi Beach attack. Critics say his presence will deepen divisions amid the war in Gaza, where they allege Australian police could seek an arrest. Protest rallies are expected in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra as Herzog’s trip unfolds.

Hong Kong ex-media tycoon Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years under security law

2026-02-07

Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy former Hong Kong media tycoon and founder of Apple Daily, was sentenced to 20 years in prison Monday in a China-imposed national security case, court proceedings showed. The 78-year-old was convicted of conspiring to collude with foreign forces and of publishing seditious articles. U.S., U.K. and rights advocates criticized the sentence as politically motivated or tantamount to a life term.

Japan’s Takaichi leverages popularity to seek LDP win in snap vote

2026-02-07

Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is campaigning to help her Liberal Democratic Party win a snap election on Sunday, betting on her popularity as she pushes a right-wing agenda for the economy, security and military capabilities. After taking office as Japan’s first female prime minister in October, Takaichi’s campaign pitch includes tougher immigration policies and moves to strengthen Japan’s defense in the face of tensions with China and an unpredictable Washington.

Jimmy Lai sentenced to 20 years; his path from Hong Kong mogul to convict

2026-02-07

Jimmy Lai, the founder of Apple Daily, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in Hong Kong on Monday after prosecutors convicted him of conspiring to commit sedition and colluding with foreign forces. Lai, a long outspoken critic of China’s ruling Communist Party, has been in custody since December 2020, following the government’s 2020 national security crackdown.

“This action will gut this agency”: ASDB board votes on Oro Valley move

2026-02-07

The Arizona Schools for the Deaf and the Blind board voted Thursday to move the Tucson campus to Oro Valley next school year, setting in motion changes that school families and staff say would disrupt education for students who are visually impaired. The board vote was 5-2, with two objections from Tucson resident William Koehler, while a separate vote to lay off about 70 people was 5-1 with Phoenix-based member Earl Terry abstaining.

New Jersey Democrats’ special primary between Mejia and Malinowski too close

2026-02-06

A special Democratic House primary in New Jersey between Tom Malinowski and Analilia Mejia was too close to call Thursday, with vote counting still continuing after election day. With more than 61,000 votes counted, Mejia led by 486 votes—less than 1 percentage point—while counties reported mail ballots that had not been processed. The Democratic nominee will face Randolph Mayor Joe Hathaway on April 16 after he ran unopposed in the Republican primary.

Treasury Secretary Bessent sparring with lawmakers as hearing turns heated

2026-02-06

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent faced repeated clashes with Democrats during a House Financial Services Committee hearing on oversight of the U.S. financial system Wednesday, with exchanges that included interruptions and insults. Lawmakers questioned issues ranging from housing and undocumented immigrants to cryptocurrency probes and the Trump family’s business links.

Minnesota immigration crackdown puts school attendance out of reach

2026-02-06

In Minnesota, immigrant families say federal immigration enforcement operations have turned day-to-day school attendance into a risk they manage through prayer, driving changes and sometimes keeping children home. The Associated Press reported that children have been detained after leaving school, including a 5-year-old who was sent to a detention facility in Texas and later released after a judge ordered it.

Venezuela advances amnesty bill that could expand political prisoner releases

2026-02-06

Venezuela’s legislature has advanced an amnesty bill proposed by acting President Delcy Rodríguez that, if approved and signed, could lead to the release of hundreds of people detained for political reasons, including opposition leaders, journalists and human rights activists. The bill must still undergo a second debate and the text has not been released publicly, prompting rights groups to call for more details before any final vote.

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green seeks lawmakers’ approval for $126M green fee projects

2026-02-06

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green has asked lawmakers to review a proposed list of $126 million in green fee-funded environmental projects, according to the administration. The projects include work on cesspools, beach restoration, invasive species, reforestation and mosquito control, with lawmakers set to debate which items receive funding as the Legislature negotiates the broader state budget.

Mississippi Senate advances measure to restore ballot initiative right

2026-02-06

The Mississippi Senate Elections Committee on Tuesday adopted a measure that would partially restore voters’ ability to bypass the Legislature and put statewide initiatives on the ballot. The proposal would require initiative organizers to collect signatures totaling at least 10% of registered voters—about 170,000 signatures—before a measure could advance to a statewide vote.

DeSantis faces lawsuit over special session to redraw Florida congressional map

2026-02-06

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is facing a lawsuit that challenges whether he has authority to call a special legislative session in April to redraw the state’s congressional map mid-decade, according to a complaint filed Thursday with the Florida Supreme Court. The plaintiffs, backed by the National Redistricting Foundation, argue the governor’s proclamation violates the Florida constitution’s separation of powers.

Alabama moves to allow death penalty for child rape convictions

2026-02-06

Alabama approved legislation Thursday adding rape and sexual torture of a child under 12 to the narrow list of crimes that could draw a death sentence, joining other Republican-led states seeking to revive capital punishment for child rape. The state’s lawmakers cited the need to protect children and set up a potential court challenge, even though the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2008 that such penalties would violate the Constitution.

New Jersey 11th District special primary results

2026-02-06

A special primary election in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District concluded Feb. 5, with results released for the contest in the district. The Associated Press reported the outcome as part of its ongoing election coverage.

Republicans reject anonymous complaint accusing Tulsi Gabbard of mishandling intel

2026-02-06

A top-secret complaint from an anonymous government insider alleging that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard withheld classified information for political reasons has been rejected by Republican leaders of the House and Senate intelligence committees, according to responses shared with lawmakers and lawmakers who reviewed the document. The rejection, issued this week by Sen. Tom Cotton and Rep. Rick Crawford, means the complaint is unlikely to move forward, while Democrats questioned why it took Gabbard’s office about eight months to refer it to Congress as required by law.

US cuts ties with Polish parliament speaker over insults to Trump

2026-02-06

The U.S. ambassador to Poland said Washington will have “no further dealings, contacts, or communications” with Włodzimierz Czarzasty, the speaker of Poland’s lower house, after what Ambassador Tom Rose called “outrageous and unprovoked insults directed against President Trump.” The dispute erupted after Czarzasty said on Monday that Trump “does not deserve the Nobel Peace Prize” and criticized him over how he pursues foreign policy.

NY attorney general to deploy legal observers overseeing federal immigration agents

2026-02-06

La fiscal general de Nueva York, Letitia James, anunció planes para desplegar observadores legales que supervisen las medidas federales de control migratorio en el estado, con el objetivo de reunir información que pueda servir de base para futuras acciones legales. Los observadores llevarán chalecos morados y se enviarán a zonas donde se reporte actividad migratoria, dijo James. La iniciativa llega en medio de una escalada de tensiones por la campaña migratoria del presidente Donald Trump, tras la muerte a tiros de dos ciudadanos estadounidenses en Minnesota.

Michigan lottery funds: how much supports K-12 classrooms, math says

2026-02-06

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the state lottery has contributed more than $1 billion to the School Aid Fund for a seventh straight year. But a Bridge Michigan analysis distributed by The Associated Press found that ticket sales take a large slice first, leaving about a quarter of each $1 purchase for the School Aid Fund. From there, only part of that pot supports preK-12 programs, and lottery proceeds account for less than 6% of the overall fund.

Man arrested over alleged cyberstalking in Minnesota ICE crackdown

2026-02-06

A Minneapolis man was arrested after federal prosecutors said he made online threats against Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers and against a person who supported ICE during a federal crackdown in Minnesota, according to a criminal complaint unsealed Thursday. Prosecutors said the man used an Instagram account to dox a “pro-ICE individual” by publishing personal details, and then posted messages urging followers to confront and assault federal officers, the complaint says.

Ugandan minister Steven Tendo detained by ICE in Vermont

2026-02-06

Steven Tendo, a Ugandan minister and nursing assistant who came to Vermont while seeking asylum, was detained Wednesday morning in Shelburne by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to a union representing his workplace and the advocacy group Migrant Justice. ICE transferred him to a facility in Manchester, New Hampshire, and as of Wednesday evening he was held at the Strafford County Jail in Dover, New Hampshire, the sources said.

Kansas jurors award $8.3 million to foster teen’s family after death

2026-02-06

Jurors in federal court in Wichita on Wednesday awarded $8.3 million to the family of a Kansas foster teen who died in 2021 after officers held him facedown for nearly 40 minutes during a mental-health crisis at a juvenile intake center. The teen, Cedric “C.J.” Lofton, died two days after staff placed him on his stomach on the floor after a WRAP restraint was removed, according to the lawsuit record described at trial.

Nike faces EEOC probe over alleged “DEI-related” bias against white workers

2026-02-06

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission said it is investigating Nike for allegedly discriminating against white employees through the company’s diversity policies. The EEOC disclosed the probe in a motion filed in Missouri federal court seeking full compliance with a subpoena, including information on layoffs, race and ethnicity tracking, and programs described in court documents as offering race-restricted mentoring or career development.

Cuban coastal town struggles in darkness as outages persist and US tensions escalate

2026-02-06

A coastal town in eastern Cuba has faced recurring power outages, leaving residents in Santa Cruz del Norte to rely on coal, firewood and makeshift cooking and lighting as U.S.-related oil and energy tensions worsen. The Associated Press reported that people in the area say the outages deepened again about a week ago, after months when the town had electricity.

California pushes colleges to give credit for prior work and training

2026-02-06

California has been expanding a policy that lets community college students earn academic credit for prior work experience, including military training and job-based learning. Gov. Gavin Newsom has backed the effort with millions in state funding, and the state aims to reach 250,000 students by 2030. But a statewide system that would show how many students have benefited is still incomplete, according to a senior adviser who oversees the public dashboard.

Texas judge declares anti-ESG state investment law unconstitutional

2026-02-06

A federal judge has ruled that a 2021 Texas law restricting state investment in some companies that the state says boycott fossil fuels is unconstitutional. In a summary judgment issued Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Alan Albright said the law’s definition of “boycotting” was “facially overbroad” and raised concerns under the First and Fourteenth Amendments.

At science fair, UC Berkeley researchers lobby for $23B state science bond

2026-02-06

In Sacramento, researchers from UC Berkeley and other California universities lobbied state lawmakers for a $23 billion science research fund backed by a bond measure aimed at shielding nonpartisan research from federal funding disruptions. The push centers on legislation authored by state Sen. Scott Wiener, which would put a proposed California Foundation for Science and Health Research on the ballot in November.

California county, ChildNet agree to $13.5M settlement for Turpin siblings

2026-02-06

Riverside County and ChildNet agreed to a $13.5 million settlement with six siblings who say they were placed in an abusive home after being rescued from their parents’ situation in 2018. The agreement has Riverside County pay $2.25 million to six of the Turpin children and ChildNet pay $11.25 million, according to a copy of the settlement. The county and the agency denied wrongdoing.

Census practice test for 2030 includes citizenship question, experts warn

2026-02-06

The U.S. Census Bureau plans to use a survey form that includes a citizenship question in a practice test for the 2030 census, a step that has drawn concern from census experts. The field test is being conducted in Huntsville, Alabama, and Spartanburg, South Carolina, using questions from the American Community Survey that ask whether a person is a U.S. citizen.

Connecticut Gov. Lamont proposes $200 rebate, trims hospital tax hike

2026-02-06

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont on Wednesday released a $28.7 billion budget plan that would use a fiscal-guardrails maneuver to send a $200 rebate to eligible individuals and $400 to eligible couples in an election-year bid to lower costs for working families. The proposal also expands some benefits, including universal free school breakfast, while asking lawmakers to roll back a previously ordered hospital tax hike.

UK’s Starmer apologizes to Epstein victims, backs Mandelson firing

2026-02-06

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer apologized to victims of Jeffrey Epstein, saying he regretted appointing Peter Mandelson as ambassador after revelations about Mandelson’s ties to Epstein. Starmer said Mandelson had “repeatedly lied” and portrayed Epstein as someone Mandelson barely knew.

Trump says he discussed Iran with Xi and plans April Beijing visit

2026-02-05

President Donald Trump said he and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed Iran in a wide-ranging call as the Trump administration presses Beijing to further isolate Tehran. Trump said he also raised trade and Taiwan and discussed his plans to visit Beijing in April.

Elissa Slotkin rejects Justice Department interview request

2026-02-05

Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan is refusing to voluntarily comply with a Justice Department investigation seeking an interview about a video she helped organize that urged U.S. service members to resist “illegal orders,” according to letters obtained by The Associated Press.

Noem says immigration officers in Minneapolis will wear body cameras

2026-02-05

WASHINGTON — U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said Monday that every Homeland Security officer on the ground in Minneapolis, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel, will be issued body-worn cameras. Noem said the program will expand nationwide as funding becomes available, citing a need for quicker acquisition and deployment after recent shootings of two U.S. citizens during immigration enforcement activity in the city.

Republican oversight chair Comer asks records tied to Omar’s husband

2026-02-05

House Oversight Committee Chairman Rep. James Comer, a Kentucky Republican, asked for records about two companies tied to Timothy Mynett, the husband of Rep. Ilhan Omar, in a request released Friday. Comer said the firms’ values rose sharply between 2023 and 2024, citing financial disclosures Omar filed.

Supreme Court allows California to use new Democratic congressional map

2026-02-05

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday allowed California to use a new, voter-approved congressional district map for this year’s elections, rejecting a last-ditch appeal by state Republicans and the Trump administration. The justices denied the request on the court’s emergency docket without explanation, leaving in place districts designed to flip seats currently held by Republicans.

New Epstein documents show Woody Allen visited White House in 2015

2026-02-05

The Justice Department’s release of records including emails linked Jeffrey Epstein to a White House visit in 2015 by filmmaker Woody Allen and his wife, Soon-Yi Previn. The documents show Epstein sought help from former White House counsel Kathy Ruemmler so Epstein’s friends could tour the White House while President Barack Obama was away in Hawaii.

Judge skeptical of legal basis for Pentagon censure of Sen. Mark Kelly

2026-02-05

A federal judge on Tuesday questioned the Pentagon’s legal justification for censuring Sen. Mark Kelly after he joined a video urging troops to resist unlawful orders from the Trump administration. During a hearing, U.S. District Judge Richard J. Leon said he was not aware of Supreme Court precedent that would support the Defense Department’s actions against a sitting senator.

FDA relaxes rules for food labels that claim 'no artificial colors'

2026-02-05

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Thursday it will allow food labels to say “no artificial colors” if products are free of petroleum-based dyes, even when they contain color additives derived from plants and other natural sources. The agency said the change replaces a previous standard that required products to have “no added color whatsoever.” FDA Commissioner Marty Makary and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the label shift is meant to encourage companies to use natural colors instead of synthetic dyes.

Legal fight escalates in Georgia over FBI-held 2020 election records

2026-02-05

Fulton County officials asked a federal court to order the FBI to return ballots and other 2020 Georgia election documents seized last week, escalating a dispute that comes as President Donald Trump talks about taking over elections. County Chairman Robb Pitts said the case is about election integrity statewide and cited the FBI search warrant’s list of sought items, including ballots, ballot images and tabulator tapes.

Prince Andrew moves from Royal Lodge to Charles III’s Sandringham estate

2026-02-05

LONDON — The former Prince Andrew, who was stripped of royal titles by King Charles III last year, has moved out of his longtime home on crown-owned land near Windsor Castle and into the king’s private Sandringham estate, earlier than expected. The move follows the latest release of U.S. Jeffrey Epstein investigation documents that renewed questions about Andrew’s friendship with the convicted sex offender, according to British media and Thames Valley Police.

Federal Reserve governor Miran resigns from White House post

2026-02-05

Federal Reserve governor Stephen Miran has stepped down as chair of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, ending an arrangement in which he held roles at both institutions. White House spokesman Kush Desai confirmed late Tuesday that Miran submitted his resignation from the CEA.

Trump credits tariffs for growth. Fact-check finds mixed results and inflation

2026-02-05

President Donald Trump, reviewing his first year of a second term, argued that tariffs on foreign products have produced an “American economic miracle” while inflation and trade outcomes improve. An AP fact check finds several of his figures are cherry-picked or based on data distorted by disruptions, and it says the tariff story does not match the broader picture for growth, inflation and the trade deficit.

Trump to cut tariffs on India to 18% after Modi agrees to stop Russian oil

2026-02-05

Donald Trump said Monday he plans to reduce tariffs on Indian products to 18% from 25% after India’s prime minister, Narendra Modi, agreed to stop buying Russian oil. Trump linked the move to ending Russia’s war in Ukraine and said India would also cut to zero import taxes on U.S. goods.

U.S. eyes critical-minerals trading bloc with allies to counter China

2026-02-05

The Trump administration said it wants to form a critical minerals trading bloc with allies and partners, using tariffs to help maintain minimum prices and secure access to materials that China controls. Vice President JD Vance made the case at a meeting hosted by Secretary of State Marco Rubio with officials from several dozen European, Asian and African nations on Feb. 4 in Washington.

States scramble to gerrymander US House districts before midterms

2026-02-05

As the 2026 midterm election approaches, states across the country are moving to redraw U.S. House district boundaries in ways lawmakers believe could improve their party’s chances. The push, which began after President Donald Trump urged Republicans in Texas to redraw districts for political gain, has since spread to other states and faces ongoing court challenges.

Vermont confirms Michael Drescher to Supreme Court after tie-break vote

2026-02-05

Vermont lawmakers confirmed Michael Drescher to the state Supreme Court after Republican Lt. Gov. John Rodgers cast a rare tie-breaking vote, following a heated debate over Drescher’s record as a top federal prosecutor. Lawmakers also confirmed Christina Nolan earlier Tuesday with little debate, voting 23-7.

Indiana lawmakers consider camping ban that could undermine Indianapolis housing

2026-02-05

Indiana lawmakers are debating a bill that would make it illegal to sleep or camp on public land in Indianapolis for certain residents experiencing homelessness, a proposal advocates say could disrupt a local housing program. The measure, considered in the Senate in January, would give people a warning and then 48 hours to move a specified distance or face a criminal penalty. Supporters say the change would help address homelessness, while opponents argue it could add legal and practical barriers to getting people into housing. The bill’s next step is assignment to the House Courts and Criminal Code Committee.

Iran and U.S. hold indirect talks in Oman over Tehran nuclear program

2026-02-05

Iran and the United States held indirect talks in Muscat, Oman, on Friday focused on Tehran’s nuclear program, with U.S. President Donald Trump saying the talks were “very good” and warning that consequences would be “very steep” if no deal is reached. For the first time, U.S. military’s top commander for the Middle East, Navy Adm. Brad Cooper, joined U.S. representatives at the talks, as the U.S. military continued a visible show of force in the region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said diplomats would return to their capitals after the session and urged that dialogue proceed without threats or pressure.

Minnesota immigration crackdown shifts under ICE as agencies clash

2026-02-05

White House border czar Tom Homan said the administration is unifying enforcement in Minnesota under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after months of internal grumbling between ICE and the Border Patrol over tactics. Homan said operations in the Twin Cities are being consolidated under ICE’s enforcement and removal unit to establish a “unified chain of command.”

Homeland Security shutdown more likely as GOP rebuffs Democratic demands

2026-02-05

Senate Majority Leader John Thune said Thursday that demands made by Democrats for new restrictions on federal immigration officers are “unrealistic,” warning the Department of Homeland Security will shut down next week if Democrats and Republicans do not negotiate a DHS spending bill with the White House. Democrats, led by Sen. Chuck Schumer and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, say they will not support the measure when funding runs out unless there are “dramatic changes” at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after fatal shootings of two protesters in Minneapolis last month.

Democrats threaten to block DHS funding unless ICE changes

2026-02-05

Democrats are threatening to block funding for the Department of Homeland Security when current authority expires in two weeks unless the government implements “dramatic changes” and “real accountability” for Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal law enforcement, Democratic leaders said. The negotiations come as Congress reviews potential new rules for ICE and U.S. Customs and Border Protection after officers shot and killed two Minneapolis protesters in January, and as talks unfold amid mixed bipartisan sentiment about de-escalating tensions.

Energy Star survives Trump budget cuts as other efficiency rules face rollback

2026-02-05

Energy Star, an Environmental Protection Agency-run program that helps consumers choose more efficient appliances, remains funded after President Donald Trump signed new budget legislation, an Associated Press report said. The program got $33 million in the legislation, slightly above 2024 levels, though environmental advocates said uncertainty about how it will be administered under a reduced EPA staff could affect its future.

Georgia GOP Rep. Barry Loudermilk won’t seek reelection this year

2026-02-05

Georgia Republican Rep. Barry Loudermilk announced Wednesday that he will not seek reelection to the U.S. House this year, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. The 62-year-old serves Georgia’s 11th Congressional District, northwest of Atlanta.

House lawmaker raises new concerns about FDA’s drug voucher program

2026-02-05

Rep. Jake Auchincloss, a Massachusetts Democrat, sent a letter to the Food and Drug Administration raising new concerns about the agency’s “National Priority Voucher” program, which is intended to shorten review times for certain drugs. Auchincloss questioned whether the FDA has legal authority to run the program without Congressional action, and he sought information about ethics disclosures for senior officials involved in voucher decisions.

Iran and US to hold nuclear talks Friday in Oman, Trump warns Khamenei

2026-02-05

Iran and the United States will hold nuclear talks on Friday in Oman, Iran’s foreign minister said Wednesday, as tensions remain high after Tehran’s crackdown on nationwide protests last month. U.S. President Donald Trump issued a warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ahead of the talks, according to an interview published Wednesday.

EPA chief outlines plan in Los Angeles to speed up wildfire rebuilding

2026-02-05

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin said Trump administration officials are seeking to speed up permitting for reconstruction of tens of thousands of homes destroyed by last year’s Los Angeles wildfires, after the president signed an executive order aimed at reducing “unnecessary, duplicative, or obstructive” requirements. The officials met residents in Pacific Palisades and said they will review why more than 1,000 permit applications were sent back, as local leaders and state officials questioned the legality and criticized a lack of disaster funding.

Trump to move Columbus statue replica near the White House

2026-02-05

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — President Donald Trump is taking steps to install near the White House a replica of a Christopher Columbus statue that was toppled and thrown into Baltimore’s harbor during his first term protests, the Associated Press reported Thursday. The Italian American Organizations United said it owns the statue and signed a loan agreement with the federal government for placement “at or near” the White House.

Trump administration says 15 Medicare drugs will cost less starting in 2027

2026-02-05

The Trump administration says pharmaceutical companies agreed to lower Medicare prices for 15 prescription drugs, a deal it estimates will save taxpayers and Medicare beneficiaries billions. The negotiated pricing takes effect in 2027, while a first round of 10 drugs negotiated under President Joe Biden’s administration takes effect in January.

Nevada falls short of 2030 greenhouse gas goals, report says

2026-02-05

Nevada missed its 2025 greenhouse gas-reduction targets and is projected to fall further behind when the state’s 2030 bar is raised, according to a report Nevada released before the new year, as officials and lawmakers dispute how much policy changes can reverse the trend.

Man pardoned in Capitol riot pleads guilty to threatening Hakeem Jeffries

2026-02-05

A New York man who was pardoned by President Donald Trump for storming the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, pleaded guilty Thursday to threatening Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, according to court records and a law enforcement report. Christopher P. Moynihan, 35, pleaded guilty in town court in Clinton, New York, to a misdemeanor harassment charge and agreed to three years of probation, with sentencing set for April 2.

Obsolete IT systems cost Vermont child welfare funding, lawmakers say

2026-02-05

Vermont lawmakers and advocates say the state’s decades-old child welfare information technology is preventing access to some federal grants and makes it impossible to quantify how much money is being lost. They cited a lack of capacity to calculate “inaccessible federal funds,” and faulted a federal eligibility system that relies on tracking children’s histories in care. The dispute is playing out as Gov. Phil Scott’s proposed 2027 budget cuts state support for some family services programs tied to federal reimbursement rules.

Texas A&M professor sues after firing over gender identity lesson controversy

2026-02-05

A Texas A&M University professor who was fired after a controversy involving a classroom video about a gender identity lesson sued the school on Wednesday in federal court in Houston. Melissa McCoul alleges the university violated her constitutional rights to free speech and due process by firing her after political pressure, according to her lawsuit. The Texas A&M University System said it is aware of the case but has not reviewed the complaint and plans to defend itself.

Jesse Jackson Jr. seeks comeback for old House seat in Illinois primary

2026-02-05

Jesse Jackson Jr., the son of civil rights leader the Rev. Jesse Jackson, is campaigning for his former U.S. House seat in Illinois, pitching a message of redemption amid a history of political fraud and prison time. The March 17 Democratic primary is set in the Chicago-area district that voters largely expect to keep Democratic, with early voting beginning Thursday.

Federal judge restricts warrantless immigration arrests in Oregon

2026-02-05

A federal judge in Oregon ruled U.S. immigration agents must not arrest people without warrants unless authorities can show a likelihood of escape, issuing a preliminary injunction on Wednesday. The order stems from a proposed class-action lawsuit challenging arrests during immigration enforcement operations. The judge said actions by agents in Oregon were “violent and brutal,” and he warned that the government has been undermining due process.

Vance meets Meloni in Milan, linking Olympic talks to strained U.S.-Europe ties

2026-02-05

U.S. Vice President JD Vance met Friday with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during a weeklong trip to Italy for the Olympic Games, a visit that paired sports with diplomacy amid strained relations between Washington and Europe under President Donald Trump. Vance spent the day watching the opening session of the three-day team figure skating competition and later attended the opening ceremony, where an image of him on screens drew boos.

Trump revives arch idea near Lincoln Memorial, citing history that doesn’t match

2026-02-05

President Donald Trump has said Washington has wanted a towering arch for nearly two centuries and that the city’s capital planning was repeatedly derailed. An Associated Press review found several of his historical references do not match the origins of similar landmarks in Washington, including an Arlington Memorial Bridge and a 1919 World War I “Victory Arch.”

EU preliminarily accuses TikTok of “addictive design” harming children

2026-02-05

The European Commission on Friday accused TikTok of breaching the bloc’s digital rules by using “addictive design” features that regulators say can lead to compulsive use by children. In preliminary charges linked to the EU’s Digital Services Act, the commission said a two-year investigation found TikTok has not done enough to assess how features such as autoplay and infinite scroll can harm minors and “vulnerable adults.”

California Speaker Robert Rivas launches review of law outcomes

2026-02-05

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas announced a new effort to assess whether California laws are working, saying lawmakers will hold hearings and community meetings to review selected statutes. The project, dubbed the Outcomes Review Oversight Project, will start under the current legislature and deliver “findings, actions and solutions” in the fall, with reforms likely to wait until the next session.

California revises CalEnviroScreen to steer cleanup funds to more areas

2026-02-05

California is rolling out an updated version of CalEnviroScreen, the pollution and health “tracker” used to choose which communities receive state cleanup funding. State officials said the fifth update adds two new indicators—diabetes prevalence and small air toxic sites—and improves data used in other health and pollution measures. The changes, developed with eight community organizations, are part of a debate over whether the system still leaves some burdened neighborhoods out of the funding pipeline.

Norway crown princess son on trial as Epstein file ties draw scrutiny

2026-02-05

Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit faced renewed scrutiny after a release of Jeffrey Epstein documents as her eldest son, Marius Borg Høiby, returned to court for a second day of a seven-week trial. Høiby, 29, pleaded not guilty to charges including rape, according to reporting. The trial and the new revelations have intensified focus on Norway’s royal family and its popularity with the public.

New Orleans police deny wrongdoing after recruit detained by ICE

2026-02-05

New Orleans police said they did not violate federal immigration law after a recruit, Larry Temah, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said ICE arrested Temah, who has a final removal order, while he was in the police academy.

Catholic Church, Italy investigate cherub resembling Giorgia Meloni

2026-02-05

The Catholic Church in Rome and Italy’s Culture Ministry are investigating a cherub in a historic basilica that critics say resembles Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, after photographs circulated in Italian newspapers. The diocese and the ministry launched inquiries into recent renovations at the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina, drawing sharp reactions from church and government officials.

Bondi says she isn’t worried about Gabbard tainting FBI Georgia probe

2026-02-05

Attorney General Pam Bondi said Friday she is not concerned that Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence, could taint an FBI investigation tied to a search of a Georgia elections office. Bondi’s comments came as Gabbard’s role in the FBI operation remained a point of scrutiny from congressional Democrats.

Czech government of PM Andrej Babiš survives no-confidence vote

2026-02-05

PRAGUE — The Czech government led by populist Prime Minister Andrej Babiš survived a parliamentary no-confidence vote on Wednesday after the opposition fell short of the 101 votes needed to dismiss the three-party coalition. The vote was sparked by a dispute between President Petr Pavel and Babiš over Pavel’s refusal to appoint an environment minister candidate from the right-wing Motorists for the ruling coalition.

Britain to release documents on Mandelson’s US ambassador appointment

2026-02-05

The U.K. government said it will release documents related to Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to the United States, despite anger over his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced calls for transparency after acknowledging he knew in 2024 about Mandelson’s ties to Epstein. Parliament also diverted control of the release decision to the Intelligence and Security Committee after lawmakers pushed back.

California to offer instant EV rebates, requiring automaker matching funds

2026-02-05

California Gov. Gavin Newsom unveiled a $200 million plan for instant electric-vehicle rebates that would reduce upfront costs for buyers at the point of sale. The proposal, set to be overseen by the California Air Resources Board, would require automakers to match state funds dollar-for-dollar if the Legislature approves it.

CIA shutters World Factbook reference tool after more than 60 years

2026-02-05

The CIA said it is ending publication of the CIA World Factbook after more than 60 years, closing a popular reference guide used by journalists and others for decades. The agency did not give a reason for the decision, which comes after Director John Ratcliffe vowed to end programs he said do not advance core missions.

Energy chief says coal plant orders helped during winter storm

2026-02-05

The Trump administration said it used emergency orders to keep aging coal-fired power plants running during a winter storm that brought “brutally frigid weather” to much of the United States. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the orders helped prevent a major blackout, even as ice accumulation caused scattered outages. Critics said the administration’s approach understated the role of wind and solar and could raise costs for consumers.

Ex-Canadian PM Harper urges unity to protect Canada from Trump threats

2026-02-05

Former Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Canada should make “any sacrifice necessary” to preserve its independence and unity as Donald Trump threatens tariffs and has spoken about acquiring Greenland. Harper made the remarks during the unveiling of his official portrait and urged Canada’s two major parties, the Liberals and Conservatives, to unify against external forces and against domestic policies he said could fracture the country.

FEMA staff reductions paused during winter storm will resume

2026-02-05

FEMA will resume staff reductions that were paused during January’s severe winter storm, according to two FEMA managers, renewing concerns inside the agency about being able to handle disasters with fewer workers. The planned cuts affect term-limited hires known as the “Cadre of On-Call Response/Recovery,” or CORE employees, FEMA managers said.

Great-granddaughter sues Piedmont over alleged race-driven forced eviction

2026-02-05

A great-granddaughter of Sidney Dearing, described as among Piedmont’s first Black residents, has filed a lawsuit against the city alleging the city used a condemnation action to force the family out because they were Black. Jordana Ackerman filed the case Feb. 2 in Alameda County Superior Court, and her complaint cites state equal-protection claims and alleges fraud in the city’s stated purpose for the taking.

Homan says 700 immigration officers to leave Minnesota immediately

2026-02-05

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Tom Homan, the Trump administration’s “border czar,” said Wednesday that about 700 federal immigration officers are being withdrawn immediately from Minnesota. Homan said the administration will keep carrying out an immigration enforcement operation in the state, which has drawn weeks of tensions and deadly confrontations, while citing new cooperation from state and local officials.

How Keir Starmer could be replaced amid Mandelson-Epstein fallout

2026-02-05

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces intensifying pressure to quit after newly released U.S. Justice Department documents renewed scrutiny of his decision in 2024 to appoint Peter Mandelson as ambassador to the United States. The documents include additional emails alleging Mandelson passed sensitive government information to Jeffrey Epstein in 2009, when Mandelson was a member of the Labour Cabinet.

Local leaders describe hostile relationship with Trump’s Washington

2026-02-05

Denver Mayor Mike Johnston said he has expanded local planning to consider the possibility of federal officials targeting Denver, after President Donald Trump deployed federal forces to some U.S. cities over objections from local leaders. Over the past week, mayors and governors from both parties described a more hostile dynamic with Washington, hardened in part after federal agents killed two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis last month.

Mississippi panel bills fail to advance public registry of domestic abusers

2026-02-05

Mississippi lawmakers killed five bills this week that would have created a public, searchable registry of people convicted of repeat domestic violence offenses, according to the Associated Press. The proposals died when they missed a Tuesday deadline to move out of committee, and advocates said the registry could help people assess risk and hold offenders accountable.

New York Gov. Hochul names Adrienne Adams as running mate

2026-02-05

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday that she will replace her lieutenant governor, Antonio Delgado, as her reelection running mate, naming former City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams instead. The move sets up a Democratic primary in which Delgado has been campaigning to unseat Hochul, according to the Associated Press.

New York to send legal observers to monitor federal immigration agents

2026-02-05

New York Attorney General Letitia James announced plans to deploy legal observers in areas where federal immigration agents carry out enforcement actions in the state. The observers would collect information that could inform future legal action, and would not interfere with enforcement. Gov. Kathy Hochul also said she will pursue legislation this year that would allow people to sue federal officers who act outside the scope of their duties and proposals to limit immigration agents’ presence at certain locations without warrants.

Norway crown princess apologizes again over Epstein ties

2026-02-05

Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway apologized again for her past links to Jeffrey Epstein, saying Friday that some messages between them do not reflect who she wants to be. The fresh regret came after a new release of Epstein-related files that Norwegian media said contained several hundred mentions of her, less than a week after her first apology.

Private donors help relaunch USAID innovation fund as nonprofit

2026-02-05

A division of the U.S. Agency for International Development that was eliminated after the Trump administration cut foreign aid was reborn Thursday as an independent nonprofit, with $48 million in philanthropic support. The new DIV Fund aims to keep funding for international development research and interventions moving in a different form after the government freeze. The nonprofit said it plans to grant out $25 million annually once fully established.

SBA to bar green card holders from its loan program starting March 1

2026-02-05

The U.S. Small Business Administration said it will bar green card holders from applying for SBA loans starting March 1, according to a policy note. The agency said the change is part of efforts to tighten loan restrictions and restructure the SBA. The SBA said it will no longer guarantee loans for small businesses owned by foreign nationals, and an advocacy group criticized the move.

Texas TEA warns districts that state takeovers could follow student walkouts

2026-02-05

Texas Education Agency guidance warns school districts they could face state oversight, funding losses and other penalties if students are allowed to walk out to attend protests. The warning follows Gov. Greg Abbott directing the education commissioner to investigate videos and posts involving Austin ISD students participating in national walkouts against killings by federal immigration officers.

Trump sues IRS for $10 billion over tax-leak, raising conflict concerns

2026-02-05

The lawsuit filed in federal court in Florida seeks $10 billion after what Trump describes as a leak of confidential tax information. Legal experts said the case raises questions about whether it is appropriate for Trump, who leads the executive branch, to sue the government he directs.

Americans report high anxiety about politics and economy, Gallup poll

2026-02-05

The United States stands out in a new Gallup world poll for how many Americans—especially older residents—say politics and government are the top issue they face. The survey, conducted from March to October 2025, also finds that younger Americans are more likely than young people in many other wealthy countries to prioritize affordability and other economic concerns.

Trump signs $1.2 trillion bill ending partial shutdown, sets DHS fight

2026-02-04

President Donald Trump on Tuesday signed a roughly $1.2 trillion government funding bill that ends a partial federal shutdown that began over the weekend. The bill passed the House on a 217-214 vote and includes provisions that fund the Department of Homeland Security for two weeks, through Feb. 13.

Trump demands $1 billion from Harvard as standoff deepens

2026-02-04

President Donald Trump on Feb. 3 demanded that Harvard University pay $1 billion to end a prolonged standoff with the Ivy League campus, doubling the amount he previously sought. In comments posted on Truth Social, Trump said the university must pay the government directly and that his administration wants “nothing further to do” with Harvard going forward.

Deal reached to protect identities of Epstein victims in document release

2026-02-04

A judge in Manhattan canceled a Wednesday hearing after lawyers for Jeffrey Epstein victims’ families and the Justice Department reached an agreement to protect the identities of nearly 100 women whose information was included in newly released court documents, according to a lawyer. The agreement came after attorneys complained that the government failed to redact names and other personal identifying information in thousands of instances when it released millions of records.

Allies seek deals to shield themselves from Trump tariffs

2026-02-04

The allies of the United States are increasingly trying to reduce their exposure to President Donald Trump’s tariffs by striking trade arrangements with one another, according to a report this week by the Associated Press. The article cites efforts by governments and institutions to accelerate trade diversification, including in Europe and Asia, while also pointing to market signals that reflect changing investor sentiment toward the U.S. dollar.

Utah lawmakers ask federal court to block new House districts boosting Democrats

2026-02-04

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah U.S. Reps. Celeste Maloy and Burgess Owens filed a federal lawsuit late Monday seeking to block a court-ordered congressional map that they say would shift new U.S. House districts toward Democrats. The complaint argues a state judge violated the U.S. Constitution by rejecting districts drawn by the Republican-led state Legislature and instead imposing an alternative map submitted by groups including the League of Women Voters of Utah.

Women returning to Gaza say Israeli troops bound and interrogated them

2026-02-04

KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israeli troops blindfolded, handcuffed and interrogated three women after they crossed the Rafah border crossing back into Gaza, according to accounts provided to The Associated Press. The women said the screening happened at an Israeli-controlled facility on the Gazan side, where they described humiliation, threats and pressure to become informants.

California lawmakers announce package to curb dangerous drivers

2026-02-04

California lawmakers from both parties announced a package of bills meant to curb dangerous driving, including proposals that would require ignition interlock devices for some offenders and tighten licensing consequences for repeat DUI cases. The Assembly Public Safety Committee chair, Democrat Nick Schultz of Burbank, said the effort aims to make communities safer after years of rising traffic deaths.

Historians criticize Trump for “inaccurate” Mexican-American War commemoration

2026-02-04

President Donald Trump’s White House posted a commemoration of the Mexican-American War that critics said rewrites history, sparking backlash in Mexico and online. The statement, issued Monday, described the 1846-1848 conflict as a “legendary victory” and drew parallels to the Trump administration’s policies toward Latin America, including border and security efforts.

Oceanfront Lahaina property owners may get buyouts under revised plan

2026-02-04

Maui County officials are planning a voluntary buyout program for certain oceanfront property owners in Lahaina as part of an updated wildfire disaster spending plan, Mayor Richard Bissen said. The proposal would shift $50 million from other hazard-mitigation projects to help fund buyouts, and county residents have until March 3 to comment on the revised action plan.

Wildfires in Argentina’s Patagonia rage, revive Milei austerity backlash

2026-02-04

Wildfires burning in Argentina’s Patagonia have devastated more than 45,000 hectares of native forests in the past month and a half, forcing evacuations of residents and tourists, the Associated Press reported. The fires have intensified criticism of President Javier Milei’s austerity policies, which critics say have cut funding for the country’s wildfire response institutions.

New York and New Jersey sue over Hudson tunnel $16B funding freeze

2026-02-04

New York and New Jersey sued the Trump administration on Tuesday, asking a federal judge to declare unlawful a freeze of $16 billion in federal funding for a Hudson River rail-tunnel project. The states said construction could be forced to stop as early as Friday, unless payments resume.

Business owner Rick Jackson enters Georgia GOP governor’s race

2026-02-04

Rick Jackson, a Georgia health care business owner, announced as a Republican candidate for governor on Feb. 3, entering a crowded GOP field that includes state officials and a Trump-endorsed lieutenant governor. Jackson, 71, said he will spend $50 million of his own money and cast his run as a contrast to what he called “career politicians.”

Immigration operation names draw praise and anger from U.S. lawmakers

2026-02-04

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration’s tongue-in-cheek names for immigration enforcement operations and detention facilities have drawn polarizing reactions, with some Democrats calling the branding racist and degrading while some Republicans say it shows seriousness about securing the border. In Florida, officials have used “Operation Dirtbag,” in Louisiana “Operation Catahoula Crunch,” and in Maine “Operation Catch of the Day,” according to the Associated Press.

Loophole leaves many California trucking schools unlicensed, report says

2026-02-04

California has failed to license most of the trucking schools that train commercial drivers, a CalMatters analysis reviewed by the Associated Press finds, largely because private schools that charge $2,500 or less can avoid state oversight. Regulators say their disciplinary tools narrow sharply once schools claim that exemption, and the state has told lawmakers it cannot reliably determine how many trucking schools exist.

DeSantis and Manfred back Tampa Rays’ proposal for new stadium

2026-02-04

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said they support a proposed new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays on Tuesday, as the team seeks a long-term home in the Tampa Bay area. The Rays are under lease at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg through at least the 2028 season, but hurricane damage in 2024 and a canceled redevelopment deal have renewed questions about the franchise’s future. A Hillsborough County Commission meeting on Wednesday is set to discuss the proposal.

Super Bowl heads into politics fight as Bad Bunny, ICE debate heat up

2026-02-04

In the run-up to Sunday’s Super Bowl between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots, the NFL faces mounting pressure to state whether it will keep Immigration and Customs Enforcement out of the game. Bad Bunny, who has criticized President Donald Trump and ICE, is set to headline the halftime show at Levi’s Stadium in the San Francisco Bay Area, drawing both backlash and praise as the event is watched as a proxy for broader national tensions.

ICE faces pushback as cities resist new detention facilities

2026-02-04

Federal immigration officials have begun scouting and purchasing warehouses to expand detention and processing space, prompting pushback from local leaders and property owners in multiple states. In several places, city and county officials said they were not told in advance, while others warned that federal acquisition could bypass local zoning or permitting rules.

Trump’s ICE detention plans face local resistance across U.S.

2026-02-04

Tens of thousands of immigrants are being detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as the Trump administration expands detention facilities with a reported $45 billion plan, prompting pushback from cities and states. Communities in multiple states have raised concerns as ICE looks to convert warehouses and use jail beds, with legal experts saying local governments have limited power to block federal use of private property.

Judge limits tear gas temporarily at protests outside Portland ICE building

2026-02-04

A federal judge in Oregon on Tuesday temporarily restricted federal officers from using tear gas at protests outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in Portland. The judge, Michael Simon, issued a 14-day order following a lawsuit by the ACLU of Oregon on behalf of protesters and freelance journalists.

At least 15 dead after migrant speedboat collision with Greek coast guard

2026-02-04

A migrant speedboat collided with a Greek coast guard patrol vessel off the eastern Aegean island of Chios, leaving at least 15 people dead, Greece’s coast guard said. The coast guard said 14 bodies were recovered, and it rescued 25 migrants, including about 11 children, transporting injured people and two injured coast guard officers to a hospital on Chios.

Republican bid for more US House seats in Florida hits legal roadblock

2026-02-04

TAMPA, Fla., Feb 3 (AP) — A three-judge federal panel in Tampa tossed out a lawsuit brought by Republican groups seeking to add U.S. House seats in Florida by challenging the 2020 census, ruling the case was filed too late. The judges said the plaintiffs should have brought the challenge within four years of the statistical methods used to calculate the census counts.

Don Lemon says agents arrested him despite offer to surrender

2026-02-04

Don Lemon told ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” that about a dozen federal agents came to his Los Angeles hotel to arrest him last week, even though his attorney had said he would surrender to face federal civil rights charges. Lemon said he asked to see a warrant during the arrest and was told agents did not have it.

Florida congresswoman pleads not guilty in $5M COVID-19 funds case

2026-02-04

MIAMI (AP) — Florida U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick pleaded not guilty Tuesday to federal charges accusing her of conspiring to steal $5 million in COVID-19 disaster relief funds, nearly three months after her indictment. Her attorney, William Barzee, entered the plea in federal court in Miami while she was in Washington, D.C.

Anchorage School District proposes budget with 500 staff cuts, larger class sizes

2026-02-04

The Anchorage School District has proposed a budget for the 2026-27 school year that would eliminate more than 500 staff positions, raise class sizes, and cut many sports programs to address a projected $90 million budget deficit. Superintendent Jharrett Bryant said the district is “laying off dozens of employees” and that the plan includes eliminating positions across teaching and student support, along with ending the IGNITE gifted program for elementary students.

France ditches Zoom and Teams as Europe pushes digital sovereignty

2026-02-04

Europe’s governments and institutions are cutting ties with U.S. Big Tech services such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and others as they pursue “digital sovereignty,” according to Associated Press reporting. France says civil servants will stop using those video-conferencing tools by 2027 and switch to Visio, and other European authorities are also turning to domestic or open-source software.

Lawsuit accuses BIA officers of unlawfully shooting Cody Whiterock in Idaho

2026-02-04

The family of Cody Whiterock, a Shoshone-Paiute man shot and killed by Bureau of Indian Affairs police in March 2024 after a prolonged chase in southwestern Idaho, has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit. The lawsuit accuses two unnamed BIA officers of chasing him outside their jurisdiction, shooting him multiple times, and “falsified or withheld evidence to escape accountability,” according to the filing. The Bureau of Indian Affairs has not identified the officers involved and declined to comment, the Associated Press reported.

Nevada fake elector case resumes as judge questions prosecutors’ fraud intent

2026-02-04

The criminal case against Nevada’s six so-called “fake electors” resumed Monday in Clark County after the Nevada Supreme Court ruled the venue was proper. At a hearing before Judge Mary Kay Holthus, defense lawyers challenged the legality of two charges by arguing prosecutors must prove an “intent to defraud,” which the judge suggested could be “impossible” for the state to establish. The next hearing is scheduled for April 10.

Video of Kirk shooting raises worries about biased jurors

2026-02-04

Graphic videos of Charlie Kirk’s killing on a Utah college campus have gone viral, prompting defense attorneys in the Tyler Robinson murder case to object to showing the footage in court and seek restrictions on cameras and stills. Legal experts say media exposure can “bias” potential jurors. A judge is set to rule on a defense request to disqualify prosecutors later this month.

Trump urges House to vote quickly to end partial shutdown

2026-02-03

President Donald Trump urged the House on Monday to end a partial government shutdown, but lawmakers said Democrats and Republicans remain divided over immigration enforcement changes tied to the federal funding package. The impasse has left several agencies without funding, with House action expected to begin Tuesday.

Trump praises Colombia’s Petro as “terrific” after White House meeting

2026-02-03

President Donald Trump met with Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro at the White House on Tuesday and praised Petro as “terrific,” describing a cordial shift after weeks of harsh exchanges. In post-meeting remarks, Trump downplayed his earlier criticisms and said Petro and he were not “exactly the best of friends,” while Petro said the talks centered on “freedom.”

Federal judge blocks Trump plan to end protections for Haitians

2026-02-03

A federal judge in Washington on Monday blocked the Trump administration from ending Temporary Protected Status protections for Haitians, granting a pause while a lawsuit challenging the termination proceeds. U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes said the plaintiffs were likely to prevail and that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem did not have the discretion to end Haitian TPS without consulting other agencies and considering conditions in Haiti.

DOJ takes down Epstein files after redaction failures may expose victims

2026-02-03

The Justice Department said it withdrew several thousand Epstein-related documents and “media” from public access after lawyers told a New York judge that sloppy redactions may have exposed information about nearly 100 victims, including nude photos and identifying details. In a letter to the judge, U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said the department revised protocols for handling “flagging documents” and aims to post revised redacted versions within 24 to 36 hours.

Gabbard says Trump requested her at FBI Georgia election search

2026-02-03

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard told lawmakers that President Donald Trump asked for her to be present during an FBI search of Georgia’s Fulton County election center last week, according to a letter sent to top House and Senate intelligence committee Democrats on Monday. In the letter, Gabbard said she “facilitated” a brief phone call between Trump and FBI agents who conducted the search, and she said neither she nor Trump issued directives to agents.

New Jersey voters pick Democratic nominee in special 11th district primary

2026-02-03

Voters in northern New Jersey will choose nominees in a special congressional primary Thursday to replace Democrat Mikie Sherrill in the U.S. House now that she is governor, the Associated Press reported. The only Republican on the ballot will be Joe Hathaway, setting up the Democratic winner to face him in the special general election on April 16, AP said.

Trump signs short extension of AGOA trade deal for African countries

2026-02-03

U.S. President Donald Trump has signed into law a short extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, according to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. The extension runs only until Dec. 31 and is intended to be modified to reflect tariffs imposed under Trump’s “America First” trade policy.

Labor Department delays January jobs report amid partial shutdown

2026-02-03

The U.S. Labor Department said it will not release the January jobs report on Friday as scheduled because of the partial federal government shutdown. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also postponed a separate jobs data release covering job openings that was due Tuesday.

Cuba says it has no dialogue table with U.S. after Trump oil tariff threat

2026-02-03

Cuba does not have a formal dialogue table with the United States amid heightened tensions after President Donald Trump threatened new sanctions tied to petroleum shipments, a senior Cuban official said Monday. The vice foreign minister, Carlos Fernández de Cossío, said Cuba instead communicates with Washington through informal channels focused on migration and drugs while insisting it wants relations like with other countries.

Maryland House approves new congressional map, but Senate likely stalls

2026-02-03

The Maryland House voted Monday to approve a new congressional map, a mid-decade redistricting that Democrats say could help them win the state’s only Republican-held U.S. House seat. Senate leadership has said since October that the measure lacks enough support to move forward in that chamber, citing concerns it could jeopardize seats Democrats currently hold.

Judge appears skeptical of Trump bid to nix hush money conviction

2026-02-03

A federal judge in Manhattan appeared skeptical during arguments on Wednesday about whether President Donald Trump can move and then overturn his New York hush-money conviction in federal court on presidential-immunity grounds. Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein said Trump’s team waited too long after a U.S. Supreme Court decision changed the legal landscape and called the effort “two bites at the apple.”

Young Democrats challenge longtime incumbents, seeking a new generation in Congress

2026-02-03

Democratic primary challengers across several states are taking aim at long-serving lawmakers, arguing their party’s “old guard” lacks the urgency to respond to President Donald Trump. The races highlighted Tuesday by the Associated Press include challenges to Rep. Doris Matsui in California, Rep. Bennie Thompson in Mississippi, and other incumbents and party fixtures in Connecticut and Tennessee.

Israeli police detain officials in suspected aid fraud after Oct. 7

2026-02-03

Israel’s police detained local officials and businesspeople suspected of siphoning off wartime aid donated after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack, Israeli authorities said Monday. Investigators said they tracked the suspects’ alleged diversion of millions of dollars and announced a fraud inquiry involving donations that poured in after the attack.

Attorney says Gabbard is holding up intelligence complaint from Congress

2026-02-03

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has withheld for eight months a complaint alleging misconduct by her from members of Congress, an attorney for the complainant said Monday. The attorney said the complaint—reviewed by the intelligence community inspector general—has not been referred to the House or Senate intelligence committees as allowed under federal law. Gabbard’s office disputed the allegations and said an inspector general determination that the complaint was not credible was made during the Biden administration.

Republicans outraise Democrats by nearly $100M ahead of midterms

2026-02-03

The Republican National Committee reported raising 172 million dollars in 2025, finishing the year with 95 million dollars in cash, while the Democratic National Committee reported 145 million dollars and ended with 14 million dollars in cash and 17 million in debt, according to year-end reports filed with the Federal Election Commission.

Clintons agree to testify in House Epstein probe after contempt threat

2026-02-03

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton agreed late Monday to testify in a House investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, though Rep. James Comer said the terms were not yet finalized. Comer, the Republican chair of the House Oversight Committee, continued pressing for criminal contempt of Congress charges as a negotiating window opened over how and when the depositions would occur.

Activists arrested in Minneapolis while trailing immigration agents

2026-02-03

Immigration officers with guns drawn arrested activists who were trailing their vehicles in Minneapolis on Tuesday, while school leaders described rising fear among students and families in Minnesota amid federal immigration sweeps, according to Associated Press reports.

Brothers of Renee Good urge Congress action after Minneapolis death

2026-02-03

Brothers of Renee Good, a Minneapolis woman who was killed in January by a federal immigration officer, asked Congress on Tuesday to rein in what they described as violence tied to immigration enforcement. Luke and Brett Ganger spoke during a congressional hearing convened by Senate Democrats to spotlight use-of-force complaints involving Homeland Security officers.

Cuban diplomat says no US dialogue yet, but Cuba is open if criteria met

2026-02-03

Havana’s deputy foreign minister Carlos Fernández de Cossío told The Associated Press that Cuba is not discussing a negotiation with the United States, but would be open to “informal dialogue” if certain conditions are met. The comments came days after President Donald Trump said his administration is starting to talk with Cuban leaders after threatening tariffs tied to oil shipments to the island.

Trump administration cuts 2030 census test sites to two cities

2026-02-03

The Trump administration is eliminating four of six planned locations for a practice test of the 2030 census, narrowing the work to Huntsville, Alabama, and Spartanburg, South Carolina. The test started Monday, and the Commerce Department plans to formally publish the change on Tuesday.

Trump administration announces new addiction initiatives including STREETS pilot

2026-02-03

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced Monday that the Department of Health and Human Services will devote $100 million toward a pilot program tackling homelessness and substance abuse in eight cities. The initiatives, unveiled at a SAMHSA “Prevention Day” event, build on a Trump executive order signed last week focused on addiction.

Alabama GOP dismisses challenge to Tuberville’s governor candidacy

2026-02-03

Alabama’s Republican Party dismissed a challenge questioning U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s eligibility to run for governor, the party candidate committee said. Ken McFeeters, who filed the challenge, said Monday he was considering litigation. The challenge centered on whether Tuberville met a seven-year residency requirement, with McFeeters asserting Tuberville lives in Florida.

Republican turned Democrat Geoff Duncan runs for Georgia governor

2026-02-03

Geoff Duncan, a former Republican who has become a Democrat, is running for governor of Georgia in the party’s crowded 2026 primary. In an event in Marietta, he apologized for what he said were his past positions as a Republican and argued Democrats need a candidate who can expand beyond the party base.

Trump launches “Project Vault” rare-earths reserve with $12B plan

2026-02-03

The Trump administration plans to deploy nearly $12 billion to create a strategic reserve of rare earth elements aimed at reducing U.S. vulnerability to China’s rare-earth leverage in trade talks. President Donald Trump announced the effort on Monday, calling it “Project Vault” and saying he expects the government to make a profit from the loan used to start the reserve.

Judge clears Sunrise Wind to resume as Trump’s offshore freeze collapses

2026-02-03

A federal judge cleared the Sunrise Wind offshore wind project for construction to resume Monday, the fifth such project affected by the Trump administration’s December pause to be put back on track. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth said the government failed to show offshore wind is an imminent national security risk that warrants halting the projects in the United States.

Michigan debate over license plate readers pits police utility vs privacy

2026-02-03

Michigan communities are weighing whether to buy or expand automated license plate readers, as privacy advocates warn the technology can enable broad surveillance and data sharing beyond local control. In recent months, some cities have backed out of contracts, while other agencies say the cameras help locate missing people and solve serious crimes.

Mandelson faces calls to quit House of Lords over Epstein ties

2026-02-03

A British politician at the center of new allegations tied to Jeffrey Epstein is facing pressure to leave the House of Lords, after Peter Mandelson resigned from the Labour Party. Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged Mandelson to quit politics and testify in the United States about what he knew, while the Metropolitan Police said it had received reports relating to alleged misconduct in a public office. The allegations draw on documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice that span more than 3 million pages.

Indonesia lets Elon Musk’s Grok back online under tight supervision

2026-02-03

Indonesia allowed Elon Musk’s artificial-intelligence chatbot Grok to resume operations in the country on a conditional basis, the communications ministry said Feb. 2, weeks after banning it for explicit sexual content. The ministry said X Corp. made a written commitment to service improvements and compliance with applicable laws and that Indonesian officials will verify and test the company’s steps to prevent violations.

Martin removed as head of Justice Department “Weaponization” team

2026-02-03

Conservative activist Ed Martin has been removed as head of a Justice Department working group tasked with scrutinizing federal prosecutions tied to President Donald Trump, according to a person familiar with the matter. The group was created when Attorney General Pam Bondi took office last year, and Martin is said to no longer be based at Justice Department headquarters.

Absence of Evo Morales in Bolivia stokes rumors amid right-left tensions

2026-02-03

Bolivia’s former socialist president Evo Morales has been missing from public view for nearly a month, days after the Jan. 3 U.S. seizure of his close ally former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Morales’ supporters and rivals have reacted as he skipped scheduled appearances, his radio show and social media activity slowed, and associates cited dengue fever while declining other details.

Bangladesh Hindu minority in fear as attacks rise ahead of election

2026-02-03

As Bangladesh nears a national election on Feb. 12, members of the country’s Hindu minority say they are living in fear as attacks and communal violence rise, including a killing last month that drew international attention. An interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has ordered an investigation, while human rights groups and Hindu leaders describe a broader surge in violence that they link to polarization, the reemergence of Islamists and what they call a culture of impunity.

Fact check: AI-made images falsely link NYC mayor to Epstein

2026-02-03

Multiple AI-generated photos circulating on social media falsely claim New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his mother, filmmaker Mira Nair, appear with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. The images, which also depict other high-profile public figures, began spreading Monday after new Epstein-related files were released by the U.S. Department of Justice.

Father of 5-year-old detained in Minnesota disputes government account

2026-02-03

The father of a 5-year-old boy detained by U.S. immigration officers in Texas denied government assertions Monday that he abandoned his son while being pursued by authorities, according to statements to ABC News reported by The Associated Press. Adrian Conejo Arias said his son, Liam, became sick while in federal custody and that he was denied medicine. Homeland Security’s assistant secretary said the facts have not changed and reiterated that Arias fled on foot before he was arrested.

Hungarian court sentences German antifa activist to 8 years

2026-02-03

A Hungarian court on Wednesday sentenced a German anti-fascist activist to eight years in prison for taking part in assaults against participants of a far-right rally in Budapest in February 2023, prosecutors said. The defendant, identified only as Maja T., was extradited from Germany to Hungary in December 2024 after Germany’s top constitutional court ruled the transfer was unlawful.

Nevada districts face school budget shortfalls after funding surge

2026-02-03

Nevada school leaders say flat K-12 funding, higher costs and enrollment declines are straining district budgets, after a 26% funding increase three years ago. Several districts are projecting deficits that could force program cuts, school consolidations and personnel reductions, and at least one district is eligible for a state takeover.

Planned Parenthood dismisses lawsuit over Trump Medicaid abortion cuts

2026-02-03

Planned Parenthood has moved to voluntarily drop its legal challenge to Trump administration Medicaid cuts that it said would end funding for abortion providers across the U.S. The organization said it took the step after a federal appeals court ruling in December allowed the administration to keep withholding the Medicaid payments, and as a separate challenge by mostly Democratic states continues.

Recreational marijuana will not appear on Florida’s 2026 ballot

2026-02-03

Florida election officials said none of the active proposed constitutional amendments by initiative petition qualified for the Nov. 2026 general election ballot, including a recreational marijuana measure backed by Smart & Safe Florida. The Florida Department of State said the signatures deadline was Sunday, and state records showed the marijuana campaign fell short of the threshold.

Trump’s $10B IRS tax-leak lawsuit raises conflict-of-interest questions

2026-02-03

President Donald Trump filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS in federal court in Florida over a leak of his and the Trump Organization’s confidential tax information. Legal experts said the case raises questions about how the president, as head of the executive branch, pursues litigation against an agency he oversees.

Trump says he won’t tear down Kennedy Center, will close for repairs

2026-02-03

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Monday that he is “not ripping down” the Kennedy Center, even as he insisted the performing arts venue needs to close for about two years for construction work. Trump also said the cost would be about $200 million and that the shutdown would keep patrons from coming and going during the renovations.

Vermont weighs locked facility for defendants found incompetent to stand trial

2026-02-03

Vermont is considering whether to create a locked facility for defendants found incompetent to stand trial or not guilty by reason of insanity who do not meet clinical criteria for psychiatric hospitalization. Advocates and lawmakers say the current system leaves some accused people without a durable case resolution, while critics question whether the proposed approach could turn competency-restoration into prolonged incarceration.

Democrat Taylor Rehmet flips Texas Senate seat in special election

2026-02-02

Democrat Taylor Rehmet won a special election for an open Texas state Senate seat, defeating Republican challenger Leigh Wambsganss in a Fort Worth-area district that has long favored the GOP. President Donald Trump distanced himself from the loss, while simultaneously praising Wambsganss ahead of the vote, according to the Associated Press. The result adds to Democrats’ recent run of surprise wins in special elections after Trump returned to the White House.

5-year-old and his dad return to Minnesota from ICE facility in Texas

2026-02-02

Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, Adrian Conejo Arias, returned to Minnesota on Sunday after a judge ordered their release from an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Texas, the congressman who helped retrieve them said. Representative Joaquin Castro said Castro picked the pair up from Dilley, Texas, on Saturday night and escorted them home the following day.

Johnson says no quick House vote to end partial shutdown

2026-02-02

House Speaker Mike Johnson said Sunday that there will be “a few days” before the House votes on a government funding package to end a partial shutdown that began over the weekend. He said he is relying on President Donald Trump and lawmakers to keep a two-week Homeland Security funding plan on track while Democrats push for broader limits on U.S. immigration enforcement.

Partial government shutdown: what it means for Pentagon, DHS, food aid

2026-02-02

The partial government shutdown began Saturday and is centered on funding lapses for parts of the federal government, including the Pentagon and agencies under Homeland Security and Transportation. House Speaker Mike Johnson said the House is aiming to consider a bill “at least by Tuesday,” after the Senate passed a package Friday that still needs House approval.

Judge blocks Trump move to end TPS for Haitians in the U.S.

2026-02-02

A U.S. federal judge on Monday blocked the Trump administration from ending temporary protected status for Haitians in the United States as a lawsuit proceeds. The ruling came a day before the scheduled end of TPS protections for Haitians, according to the Associated Press.

Trump fails to elevate Arab American ally due to GOP opposition

2026-02-02

When Donald Trump nominated Amer Ghalib, the mayor of a small Detroit suburb, to serve as U.S. ambassador to Kuwait, the White House nomination stalled after opposition from fellow Republicans, according to a report Saturday. Ghalib remains in Hamtramck, and he said he is “not interested in it anymore.”

Trump immigration crackdown ripples in Colorado’s swing House district

2026-02-02

The monthslong unrest tied to Trump’s immigration enforcement in Minnesota is reverberating in Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, where Democrats and Republicans say the issue is shaping how voters view the November midterms. In interviews across the district, some Trump supporters said they accept immigration enforcement but worry agents are going after people for minor infractions, while Hispanic voters expressed fear that officers could target them or their families. The seat is held by Republican Gabe Evans, who campaigned narrowly in 2024 and has urged the administration to focus on deporting criminals.

Trial begins for ex-FirstEnergy executives in $60M Ohio bribery case

2026-02-02

Opening statements began Tuesday in Akron, Ohio, in the state trial of ex-FirstEnergy executives charged in a bribery scheme tied to the state’s utility regulator. Prosecutors say a $4.3 million payment to veteran lawyer and lobbyist Sam Randazzo in 2019 was paid in exchange for regulatory and legislative favors later delivered to FirstEnergy. Chuck Jones and Michael Dowling pleaded not guilty to felony corruption charges.

After Mexico bans vapes, cartels tighten grip on booming market

2026-02-02

Mexico’s nationwide ban on selling electronic cigarettes has forced legal vape shops to close while organized crime and unregulated products move in, researchers and shop owners say. The ban took effect Jan. 16, and lawyers say a lack of clear implementation rules has created opportunities for extortion and uncertainty for consumers. In the U.S., vaping remains legal and regulated, even as regulators and scientists continue debating risks and benefits.

Rafah crossing in Gaza set to reopen Monday for limited travel

2026-02-02

Palestinos en Gaza vieron el domingo preparativos para la reapertura del paso fronterizo de Rafah con Egipto, que Israel afirmó que está programada para el lunes como parte del cese el fuego con Hamás. En el primer día de operación, el cruce abriría a un número reducido de personas y no habría cruce de mercancías, dijeron funcionarios y residentes a The Associated Press.

New House map and back-to-back elections cause confusion in Texas district

2026-02-02

Rep. Christian Menefee of Texas, who won a special runoff last weekend to fill a long-vacant U.S. House seat, has about four weeks to win over Houston voters in a Democratic primary shaped by a new congressional map. The seat’s previous Democratic nominee, Amanda Edwards, is also running, as is Rep. Al Green after new district lines put his home in the revamped 18th District. Residents and Democrats say overlapping elections, redrawn boundaries and delays around the seat’s vacancy have left many voters exhausted and confused.

Young people use Roblox to protest ICE and reenact immigration raids

2026-02-02

In online game Roblox, some young users have been staging virtual “ICE raids” and holding avatar protests against the U.S. immigration agency, according to a report Friday by the Associated Press. A Roblox spokesperson said the reenactments violate the company’s community standards and that the company takes “swift action” against users found to be breaking those rules.

Portland mayor demands ICE leave city after tear gas used at protest

2026-02-02

Portland Mayor Keith Wilson demanded that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement leave Portland after federal agents used tear gas, pepper balls and rubber bullets against demonstrators outside an ICE facility during a weekend protest. Witnesses said the crowd included young children, and paramedics were sent to treat people at the scene.

Lagos demolitions in Makoko displace thousands, families say

2026-02-02

Lagos authorities have carried out demolitions in the waterfront community of Makoko, displacing thousands of residents as homes were torn down and people say there was limited notice, leaving some families sheltering in makeshift setups. An AP account described bulldozers demolishing houses starting in late December and continuing into January, including the home of fisherman Victor Ahansu, whose family now lives on a canoe with his baby twins. Officials from the Lagos state Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development declined to comment on the allegations.

Attorneys, families struggle to find hospitalized ICE detainees

2026-02-02

Attorneys and family members say they are finding it extremely difficult to locate and communicate with people detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after those detainees are taken to hospitals. In one case, Julio César Peña, detained in Glendale, Calif., was hospitalized after suffering a ministroke but his wife and his attorney said they could not get basic information about where he was or whether he was receiving care.

Meta faces New Mexico trial over alleged harm to children

2026-02-02

Jury selection begins Monday for New Mexico’s first stand-alone trial against Meta, the parent of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, a case built around a state undercover investigation involving proxy social media accounts. Attorney General Raúl Torrez filed the civil complaint in 2023, alleging Meta created conditions that predators could exploit children and failed to disclose what it knew about harmful effects.

US rabbis see growing diversity with more women and LGBTQ rabbis

2026-02-02

More women and LGBTQ people are entering the U.S. rabbinate and rabbinical schools, reshaping who Jewish communities see as spiritual leaders, an Associated Press report says. Women rabbis and students described both progress since earlier cohorts and ongoing obstacles in hiring, inclusion, and workplace expectations.

Fundraising hauls show RNC outpacing Democrats ahead of midterms

2026-02-02

The Republican National Committee has raised more than Democrats in 2025 and ended the year with vastly more cash, according to year-end Federal Election Commission filings. The RNC reported $172 million raised in 2025, including $95 million cash on hand at the end of the year, while the Democratic National Committee reported $145 million raised with $14 million cash and $17 million in debt. The totals point to a well-funded Republican campaign operation entering the 2026 midterms, with party committees in both chambers also reporting stronger cash positions for Republicans.

Denmark to allow deportation of some foreign criminals with reform

2026-02-02

Denmark on Friday unveiled a legal reform aimed at making it easier to deport some foreign nationals convicted of serious crimes, including aggravated assault and rape. The plan would apply to foreigners sentenced to at least one year of unconditional imprisonment, but Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said it could conflict with European human rights rules. Denmark also said it would tighten controls on foreigners without legal residence, introduce an anklet monitor, reopen an embassy in Syria and strengthen cooperation with authorities in Afghanistan.

Czechs rally behind President Pavel in dispute with foreign minister

2026-02-02

Tens of thousands of people in the Czech Republic rallied Sunday in Prague and elsewhere in support of President Petr Pavel amid a dispute over his refusal to appoint a government minister favored by the country’s foreign minister. The demonstrations centered on Pavel’s rejection of Filip Turek, whom Pavel said was ineligible after Facebook posts were found to be racist, homophobic and sexist.

Costa Ricans choose between Chaves-backed successor and traditional rivals

2026-02-02

Costa Ricans vote Sunday in a presidential election that will determine whether they continue the conservative populist program of outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves or give a new chance to parties seeking to shed an “establishment” image. The contest also decides a new 57-seat National Assembly.

Texas to expand data on pregnant inmates after scrutiny of jail harms

2026-02-02

Texas county jails held an average of about 430 pregnant inmates each month in late 2025, according to data being compiled under a budget rider that orders the Texas Commission on Jail Standards to study maternal health and mortality in custody. Advocates say the effort is meant to improve oversight after years of reports and lawsuits alleging medical neglect and other harms to pregnant people in county lockups.

After molding health policy, MAHA eyes reshaping EPA environmental rules

2026-02-02

After Lee Zeldin, newly named EPA administrator, announced new restrictions on five chemicals on New Year’s Eve, the Make America Healthy Again movement is now pressing for broader environmental changes at the agency. Advocates say they have gained unusually direct access to EPA leadership as part of a broader political alliance tied to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Trump-era shifts. EPA officials say a “MAHA agenda” coming in coming months will respond to priorities raised by MAHA advocates and communities.

Capgemini to sell ICE-linked unit after France presses for transparency

2026-02-02

French technology company Capgemini said Sunday it will begin selling a subsidiary that provides technology services to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, as scrutiny grows over ICE tactics in the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. The company said it immediately will start the process to sell Capgemini Government Solutions, after French authorities urged it to explain its dealings with the agency.

Concerns rise over Black history education under Trump's policies

2026-02-02

Black History Month centennial celebrations are unfolding as advocates warn of a tightening political climate around how Black history is taught in the United States. DeRay Mckesson, a longtime activist, said state and local leaders are “nervous about retribution from the White House,” even as organizers plan curricula, teacher training and public programming for the milestone year.

India’s budget boosts infrastructure spending while vowing fiscal discipline

2026-02-02

New Delhi—India’s government presented its 2026-27 budget to Parliament on Sunday, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman saying it would keep investing in infrastructure and domestic manufacturing while maintaining fiscal discipline. The budget targets a deficit of 4.3% of gross domestic product next fiscal year and projects economic growth in a 6.8% to 7.2% range.

Oscar-nominated screenwriter of “It Was Just an Accident” arrested in Tehran

2026-02-02

A screenwriter of the Oscar-nominated Iranian drama “It Was Just an Accident” has been arrested in Tehran, according to representatives for the film. The arrest of Mehdi Mahmoudian came days after he and 16 others signed a statement condemning Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the government’s violent crackdown on demonstrators.

Palestinian citizens in Israel demand more security amid gang violence

2026-02-02

Palestinian citizens in Israel have pressed authorities for more security as police say recent killings were driven by gang violence and, in at least one case, confusion of identity. Demonstrations in towns and cities across Israel have intensified after multiple shootings, including the killing of a 15-year-old in Kafr Yasif.

Palestinian citizens in Israel protest violence convulsing their communities

2026-02-02

In Kafr Yasif, Israel, Palestinian citizens protested gang and family-feud violence after a motorcycle gunman killed 15-year-old Nabil Safiya in a shooting police later said was mistaken identity. The shooting, which residents and activists say highlights an escalating security crisis for Arab communities, comes as demonstrations swept Israel, including thousands marching in Tel Aviv.

Trump says Kennedy Center will close two years for renovations

2026-02-02

President Donald Trump said Sunday he will move to close Washington’s Kennedy Center for two years starting in July for construction, making the venue’s latest overhaul part of his efforts to reshape the institution since taking office again. The president’s announcement came after a wave of cancellations by major performers and groups.

Trump says U.S. is starting to talk to Cuba amid oil cut pressure

2026-02-02

President Donald Trump said the United States is beginning talks with Cuban leaders as his administration increases pressure on the island by cutting off key oil supplies. Speaking Saturday night while flying to Florida, Trump linked the moves to earlier steps he said would force Cuba to the negotiating table.

Trump nominates economist Brett Matsumoto to lead BLS

2026-02-02

President Donald Trump said Friday he is nominating government economist Brett Matsumoto to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Trump has previously accused the agency of releasing low monthly jobs numbers to make him look bad, and he replaced the BLS director after the July jobs report.

Venezuela frees jailed activist Javier Tarazona in amnesty move

2026-02-02

Venezuelan human rights activist Javier Tarazona, an ally of opposition leader María Corina Machado, was released from prison Sunday after the government promised to free political prisoners in an amnesty bill, rights groups and family members said. Tarazona, director of FundaRedes, was arrested in July 2021.

Trump nominates Kevin Warsh to chair the Federal Reserve, replacing Powell

2026-02-01

President Donald Trump has nominated Kevin Warsh, a former Federal Reserve governor, to become the next chair of the Federal Reserve, a role expected to shape U.S. interest-rate policy and global markets. Warsh would replace Jerome Powell when his term ends in May, and his confirmation would require Senate action after markets and lawmakers signaled they are watching closely.

Trump urges quick deal on DHS funding, shifting tone from last shutdown

2026-02-01

President Donald Trump moved quickly to negotiate with Senate Democrats to avert a lengthy government shutdown over Department of Homeland Security funding, a change from last year’s 43-day shutdown fight. In a social media post late Thursday, Trump warned that “another long and damaging government shutdown” could slow the country down.

Judge declines to halt Minnesota immigration surge as lawsuit continues

2026-02-01

A federal judge in Minnesota refused to block a new immigration enforcement push in Minneapolis and the Twin Cities while a lawsuit filed by state and local officials proceeds. Judge Katherine M. Menendez denied a preliminary injunction sought by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison and the mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul after the state argued the operation violated constitutional limits on federal power.

Judge orders release of 5-year-old Liam Ramos and his father from ICE

2026-02-01

A federal judge ordered the release by Tuesday of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, Adrian Conejo Arias, from Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody after they were detained in Minnesota and sent to a Texas facility. U.S. District Judge Fred Biery, in a ruling issued Saturday, criticized the Trump administration’s enforcement approach and cited the case’s effect on children.

Carolinas’ growth surges as Florida and Texas see migration slow

2026-02-01

North Carolina attracted 84,000 more new residents from other parts of the country last year, making it the biggest draw for domestic migration, according to U.S. Census Bureau figures. South Carolina recorded the highest overall growth rate at 1.5%, as more people shifted their moves to the Carolinas while Florida’s in-migration cooled and Texas’ domestic inflow slowed.

Utah Gov. Cox expands Supreme Court to seven as redistricting appeal nears

2026-02-01

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox signed a bill Saturday expanding the Utah Supreme Court from five justices to seven, a move supporters said would improve efficiency as a redistricting appeal plays out. The court was not asking for more justices, and legal experts and Democrats warned the timing could set a precedent amid tension between the judiciary and the legislature.

No REAL ID yet? TSA fee and ConfirmID rules start this weekend

2026-02-01

Beginning Sunday, air travelers in the U.S. who do not have a REAL ID or another TSA-accepted form of identification will face a $45 fee to verify their identity at the airport through the TSA’s ConfirmID option, according to the Department of Homeland Security. The fee, which can be paid online in advance, covers verification for a 10-day travel period but does not guarantee approval, the TSA said.

Democrat Christian Menefee wins Houston House seat in special election

2026-02-01

Christian Menefee, a Democrat and Harris County attorney, won a Texas U.S. House special election runoff on Saturday, defeating former Houston City Council member Amanda Edwards. The victory will narrow Republicans’ slim majority in the House and will give Menefee the remainder of the term left vacant after the death of former Rep. Sylvester Turner.

As Mexico expands natural gas infrastructure, some communities raise concerns

2026-02-01

Mexico’s Southeast Gateway pipeline, which brings U.S. natural gas to serve Mexico’s power needs and eventually the Yucatán Peninsula, has drawn resistance from coastal communities and environmental groups. Residents and Indigenous activists say they were not consulted under Mexico’s constitution, while opponents warn of leak and reef impacts and a wider threat to the country’s climate goals.

Former Sierra Club Foundation director sues over internal racism allegations

2026-02-01

A former director at the Sierra Club Foundation, the charitable arm of the Sierra Club, filed a wrongful termination lawsuit in California state court, alleging internal racism and retaliation for complaints about discrimination and lack of diversity. Pedro da Silva, 29, says the foundation’s racial-justice commitments did not extend internally and that workplace interactions were “twisted” into a harassment complaint based on racist stereotypes. The Sierra Club Foundation said it is “vigorously defending” its decision to fire him.

Senate approves Trump-linked funding deal; House faces weekend shutdown risk

2026-01-31

The Senate voted to fund most of the federal government through the end of September while providing a two-week extension for Homeland Security, sending the package to the House with a weekend partial shutdown looming. President Donald Trump struck the deal with Senate Democrats after the deaths of two protesters in Minneapolis, and Democrats said they would support the short Homeland Security extension only if lawmakers move to tighten federal immigration enforcement. Senate Democrats led by Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries tied their next actions to requiring changes on Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests and agent accountability.

Third Georgia lawmaker accused of COVID unemployment fraud

2026-01-31

Federal prosecutors have charged Georgia state Rep. Dexter Sharper with allegedly making false statements to collect $13,825 in unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic, AP reports. Sharper is a Valdosta Democrat who, prosecutors say, certified he was not earning money and was looking for work while he was working multiple jobs. Sharper declined to comment, citing ongoing litigation.

US approves $6.67B in arms for Israel, $9B for Saudi Arabia

2026-01-31

The Trump administration has approved new arms sales to Israel totaling $6.67 billion and to Saudi Arabia worth $9 billion, the State Department announced late Friday. The approvals were made public after the department notified Congress earlier Friday, as U.S.-Iran tensions rise and as the administration pursues a Gaza ceasefire plan.

Justice Department releases 3 million pages of Epstein files

2026-01-31

The Justice Department disclosed more than 3 million pages of newly released Jeffrey Epstein records Friday, along with thousands of videos and photos, as required by a federal law. By Friday evening, more than 600,000 documents had been posted online, with millions more still withheld, prompting criticism from Democrats.

Justice Department releases more Epstein files, totaling 3 million pages

2026-01-31

The U.S. Justice Department on Friday resumed disclosures under the Epstein Files Transparency Act by posting more records from its investigative files on Jeffrey Epstein, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said. The department said the latest release brings the total to more than 3 million pages of documents, along with more than 2,000 videos and 180,000 images.

Journalist Don Lemon charged for covering protest at Minnesota church

2026-01-31

Journalist Don Lemon was arrested in Los Angeles and later released after he was hit with federal civil rights charges tied to a Jan. 18 protest that disrupted a Minnesota church service, federal prosecutors said. The charges stem from an indictment in Minnesota alleging conspiracy and interfering with the First Amendment rights of worshippers. Lemon’s lawyer said Lemon plans to plead not guilty and fight the case.

Newsom files civil rights complaint against Dr. Oz in Trump feud

2026-01-31

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office filed a civil rights complaint against Dr. Mehmet Oz, alleging he discriminated against Armenian people in a video that claimed hospice fraud in Los Angeles. Newsom’s office said Oz’s statements—made in social media posts—risked deterring participation in hospice and home-care programs that serve people on government-subsidized insurance.

Judge blocks agencies from checking citizenship on federal voter forms

2026-01-30

A federal judge has blocked certain agencies from assessing citizenship status when distributing federal voter registration forms, a setback to President Donald Trump’s election executive order. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly ruled the Constitution’s separation of powers limits what the president can change about election procedures.

EU lists Iran Revolutionary Guard as terrorist group, targets officials

2026-01-30

Brussels says foreign ministers agreed Thursday to designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, a largely symbolic step that adds sanctions pressure amid protests Tehran says are being put down. The EU also sanctioned 15 senior Iranian officials and six organizations, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said.

EU agrees to list Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as terrorist organization

2026-01-30

The European Union agreed to list Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, the bloc’s top diplomat said Thursday, a largely symbolic move that adds pressure on Tehran amid ongoing tensions over protests. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said foreign ministers in the 27-nation bloc unanimously approved the designation. The EU’s decision comes as activists say Iran’s crackdown on nationwide protests has killed at least 6,479 people.

Fact-check: claims on investment, housing, and wildfires in Trump’s Cabinet

2026-01-30

President Donald Trump held his first Cabinet meeting of 2026 on Thursday, with remarks touching the economy, housing, energy, health initiatives and drug prices. The Associated Press reviewed several claims Trump and administration officials made during the meeting and found multiple were false or misleading.

Fact-checking claims from Trump’s first 2026 Cabinet meeting

2026-01-30

President Donald Trump held his first Cabinet meeting of 2026 on Thursday, with the administration highlighting the economy, housing, energy, health initiatives and drug prices. The Associated Press checked some of the claims Trump and other officials made during the meeting, including statements about investment totals, housing sales and California wildfire recovery.

Homan says immigration drawdown could happen in Minnesota after “cooperation”

2026-01-30

Tom Homan, President Donald Trump’s border czar, said Thursday the Trump administration could reduce the number of federal immigration enforcement officers in Minnesota, but only if state and local officials cooperate and protests stop interfering with federal operations. His comments came in Minneapolis after last weekend’s fatal shooting of protester Alex Pretti.

New videos of Alex Pretti scuffle with federal agents emerge days after death

2026-01-30

New videos show Alex Pretti scuffling with federal immigration agents in Minneapolis on Jan. 13—11 days before he was shot and killed by Border Patrol officers, according to the Associated Press. The videos rekindled debate over the circumstances of Pretti’s death, including claims shared online by Donald Trump Jr.

Bessent warns Carney against fight ahead of USMCA review

2026-01-30

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney that his public comments on U.S. trade policy could backfire as the formal review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA, approaches. Bessent issued the warning in an interview on CNBC, urging Carney not to “pick a fight” before talks tied to the 2020 deal. Carney later told reporters he meant what he said at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

Trump signs order threatening tariffs on oil shipments to Cuba

2026-01-30

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday that would impose tariffs on goods from countries that sell or provide oil to Cuba, escalating pressure on Havana amid its worsening energy crisis. The order could primarily affect Mexico, which has provided oil shipments to Cuba even as Trump has urged Mexico to distance itself from the Cuban government.

Venezuela acting president signs oil overhaul that eases state control

2026-01-30

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez signed a law Thursday that overhauls the country’s oil industry, reversing long-standing state control to allow private companies to manage production and sales. The move came after the National Assembly approved the bill and as the U.S. Treasury began easing sanctions on Venezuelan oil.

Starmer and Xi call for deeper UK-China ties as diplomacy warms

2026-01-30

Prime Minister Keir Starmer met President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday, as Britain and China sought to thaw relations after years of acrimony and a series of unresolved disputes. The leaders discussed deepening ties, while also addressing trade and security as the U.S. under President Donald Trump shakes up global relations, though neither mentioned Trump by name.

Democrats and White House delay DHS funding deal amid shutdown deadline

2026-01-30

Democrats and the White House reached a deal intended to avert a partial government shutdown, temporarily funding the Department of Homeland Security while lawmakers consider new limits on President Donald Trump’s surge of immigration enforcement. Passage was delayed late Thursday as Senate leaders sought enough support to pass the agreement before a midnight Friday deadline.

Army general vows to follow law in Trump’s NSA surveillance role

2026-01-30

The Army general tapped to lead the National Security Agency told the Senate Intelligence Committee that, if confirmed, he would follow the Constitution and the law governing the agency’s surveillance powers. Lt. Gen. Joshua Rudd, President Donald Trump’s nominee to run the NSA and the Pentagon’s Cyber Command, faced skepticism from lawmakers including Sen. Ron Wyden over whether the administration would seek to use foreign-intelligence surveillance authorities against Americans for political reasons.

Georgia, Florida and North Dakota seek to end all property taxes for homeowners

2026-01-30

ATLANTA (AP) — Republicans in Georgia have unveiled a plan to phase out most property taxes on homeowners by 2032, following similar state-level pushes in Florida and North Dakota. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has said he wants to phase out nonschool property taxes on homeowners over 10 years, while North Dakota is using oil-related earnings and tax credits aimed at bringing homeowner property taxes to zero. The proposals are running into questions about how much revenue would replace the money that cities, counties and K-12 schools rely on.

House Republicans propose stricter voting rules before the midterms

2026-01-30

House Republicans released a bill Thursday proposing changes to U.S. voting rules that they say would increase confidence ahead of the fall midterm elections. The package includes photo ID and proof of citizenship requirements, as well as faster roll updates, with some provisions scheduled for 2027.

Trump’s Board of Peace plan draws support for UN, plus skepticism

2026-01-30

President Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace” aimed at shaping Gaza’s future has attracted support from some countries for the United Nations, while major powers and others declined to expand the concept beyond the Gaza ceasefire. In remarks and statements tied to the Security Council and the broader U.N. system, U.N. officials and allied governments said international peace and security remain the Security Council’s responsibility.

What to know about Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and EU terrorist move

2026-01-30

EU officials are moving to designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, as the group’s role in Iran’s recent protest crackdown and its overseas activities come under renewed scrutiny. The Associated Press said the Guard oversees Iran’s ballistic missile arsenal and commands operations abroad through its Quds Force, while also running businesses at home. The designation comes as Iran faces pressure from the wider Israel-Hamas war and related regional conflicts.

Costa Ricans back Laura Fernández, Chaves’ successor, in presidential vote

2026-01-30

Costa Rica is voting Sunday for a new president, with many voters backing Laura Fernández, the candidate handpicked by outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves, as homicide and drug-related violence remain a top concern. The Associated Press reported that supporters of Fernández said her candidacy would continue Chaves’ approach to public security.

Appeals court rules illegal Trump plan to end TPS for Venezuelans

2026-01-30

A federal appeals court on Jan. 28 ruled that the Trump administration acted illegally when it ended Temporary Protected Status protections for hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans, according to a report published Thursday. The Ninth Circuit said Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem exceeded her authority when she terminated the TPS designation. The decision does not take immediate practical effect because, in October, the U.S. Supreme Court allowed the administration’s action to remain in effect while the case proceeds.

Mark Carney stands firm on Davos speech, plans new Canada trade deals

2026-01-30

Mark Carney told reporters in Ottawa that he “meant what” he said at the World Economic Forum in Davos, pushing back on claims he had walked back the comments during a phone call with President Donald Trump. The Canadian prime minister also said Canada plans to sign a series of new trade deals to reduce its dependence on the United States.

Trump administration announces 15 new drugs for Medicare price talks

2026-01-30

The Trump administration announced 15 new prescription drugs for Medicare price negotiation, expanding the federal government’s ability to bargain directly with drug makers under a 2022 law. Drugs selected to be negotiated include treatments for type 2 diabetes, HIV and arthritis, and officials said deals could take effect in 2028 for Medicare enrollees.

Trump administration’s AI-altered arrest image stokes trust concerns

2026-01-30

The Trump administration has shared AI-generated and AI-altered images online, including an edited arrest image of civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong that shows her crying, prompting misinformation experts to warn about growing public confusion over what is real. The concerns follow posts by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s account and the White House, where officials also defended the use of memes after criticism.

Carney defends Davos speech, says Trump impressed by trade plan

2026-01-30

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Tuesday he told President Donald Trump that he meant the criticism of US economic coercion he delivered at Davos last week. Carney rejected the Trump administration's claim that he had walked back his remarks during a Monday phone call with the president. Carney said Trump told him he was impressed with Canada's plan to negotiate a dozen new trade deals across four continents in six months.

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, a Newsom critic, joins California governor race

2026-01-30

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan announced Thursday that he is joining the crowded race for California governor, positioning himself as a moderate Democrat with a record tackling homelessness and crime. Mahan, a frequent critic of Gov. Gavin Newsom, said his approach in Silicon Valley’s largest city has reduced the number of unsheltered homeless, cut fees to speed housing construction, and helped police solve more homicides.

Biden administration reports thousands in foreign gifts, including art and jewelry

2026-01-30

The U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Protocol published an accounting of foreign gifts reported by former President Joe Biden, his wife and senior U.S. officials for calendar year 2024. The report, filed in the Federal Register this week, says foreign leaders and governments gave tens of thousands of dollars in gifts, including a $19,000 painting and other high-value items. The State Department said the accounting does not include gifts given to President Donald Trump or his administration in the first year of his second term.

Judge warns DOJ about slavery exhibit remarks in Philadelphia case

2026-01-30

A federal judge in Philadelphia warned Justice Department lawyers that statements they made about the Trump administration deciding what parts of American history to display at National Park Service sites were “dangerous” and “horrifying.” The comments came during a hearing over the abrupt removal of an outdoor slavery-history exhibit at the former home of President Donald Trump’s predecessors on Independence Mall.

Judge bars Texas AG Ken Paxton from shutting down Jolt voter group

2026-01-30

A federal judge ruled that Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton failed to show a Latino-focused voting-rights nonprofit, Jolt Initiative, violated the law, blocking Paxton from shutting the group down in a state-court proceeding. U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman said Paxton offered “any plausible proof” and appeared to be acting in bad faith. The ruling follows earlier litigation between the two sides over Jolt’s voter registration efforts.

Don Lemon faces federal charges after protest at Minnesota church

2026-01-30

Don Lemon and another reporter face federal civil rights charges tied to a protest that interrupted a worship service at a Minnesota church earlier this month, according to an indictment unsealed after a grand jury in Minnesota. The charges center on allegations involving the First Amendment rights of worshippers and federal laws that can carry prison time.

Starmer and Xi seek closer UK-China ties as Trump reshapes alliances

2026-01-30

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing to seek a closer “strategic partnership” and improve bilateral ties after years of strain. The leaders said their governments would focus on climate change and global stability, even as the challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s approach to the post–Cold War order weighed on their agenda.

Growing cultural revolt emerges against Trump’s immigration crackdown

2026-01-30

U.S. and global entertainment, technology and business leaders have increasingly voiced criticism of Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, fueled by backlash over Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions in Minnesota and anger after the death of Alex Pretti. The criticism has spilled beyond politics, with public statements ranging from music and television to corporate memos, social media posts and sports commentary.

Tax season is underway: when you’ll get your IRS refund in 2026

2026-01-30

Tax filing season has started, with the IRS expecting 164 million people to file returns by April 15. The agency says refunds for electronic filers generally arrive in 21 days or less, while paper returns can take four weeks or more, especially if amendments or corrections are needed.

Sheinbaum reiterates Mexican sovereignty in Trump call after detained snowboarder

2026-01-30

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum said Thursday that operations on Mexican soil are carried out by Mexican forces, after U.S. officials described a joint operation that led to the detention of former Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding. Sheinbaum made the comments at a daily press conference following a phone call with President Donald Trump in which, she said, the two did not discuss Wedding’s arrest.

Judge rejects Raffensperger bid to loosen spending limits in Georgia race

2026-01-30

ATLANTA (AP) — A federal judge has rejected for now Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger’s bid to gain more spending power in the state’s race for governor, upholding campaign finance rules that some Republicans argue give certain candidates an unfair advantage. Raffensperger asked a court to waive limits on the spending power of his political committee during the ongoing GOP contest.

Minneapolis streets echo with protests as ICE raids draw rapid response

2026-01-30

Thousands of protesters and volunteer networks have continued to follow U.S. immigration enforcement activity through Minneapolis as federal agents arrest people across immigrant neighborhoods, according to reports from the Associated Press. The protests come as activists deploy whistles, encrypted messaging and on-the-ground legal and support efforts even after the White House took a more conciliatory tone following the killing of Alex Pretti.

Medicare proposes new rules to expand deceased organ use and oversight

2026-01-30

The U.S. government on Wednesday proposed new rules for the nation’s transplant system that aim to increase the use of “less-than-perfect” organs while tightening safety oversight of organ procurement organizations. The proposal from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services would strengthen oversight, add requirements for how organs are tracked and assigned, and set additional safety standards for donor groups.

Judge in Minnesota tries to keep ICE in check during mass sweeps

2026-01-30

In Minnesota, Chief U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz described U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as failing to comply with nearly 100 court orders issued since Jan. 1 in cases tied to “Operation Metro Surge.” Schiltz, a conservative-leaning judge, said ICE “must follow” court orders unless they are overturned or vacated and ordered an appearance by ICE’s acting director, Todd Lyons, to address potential contempt.

Detainees pepper-sprayed at Florida immigration detention center

2026-01-30

MIAMI — Detainees were pepper-sprayed on Christmas Eve at a Florida immigration detention center officials have dubbed the “Deportation Depot,” according to the state. The Florida Division of Emergency Management said detainees refused orders to return to their bunks, advanced on staff and that chemical agents were released to restore safety to detainees and guards.

Former First Brands CEO Patrick James indicted with brother in fraud case

2026-01-30

Patrick James, the former CEO of bankrupt auto parts supplier First Brands Group, and his brother Edward were indicted on federal fraud charges and arrested Thursday in Ohio, according to the U.S. government. Prosecutors said the brothers carried out a yearslong scheme that allegedly bilked banks and investors out of billions of dollars using fake documents and false financial reports.

Police investigate why man drove car into Hasidic Jewish center

2026-01-30

NEW YORK — Police said Thursday that Dan Sohail, 36, was charged with attempted assault as a hate crime after he drove his car into the Chabad Lubavitch world headquarters in Brooklyn, damaging doors but injuring no one. Officials said Sohail had tried to connect with the Hasidic community and that video showed him dancing with congregants during a prior visit. City leaders announced stepped-up security around houses of worship after the crash on Wednesday night.

Burkina Faso junta dissolves all political parties, will draft new rules

2026-01-30

Burkina Faso’s military junta dissolved all political parties in the country and scrapped the laws governing them, the government said in a decree approved this week. The decree orders party assets to be transferred to the state and said the parties had deviated from guidelines establishing them.

Chinese dissident Guan Heng granted asylum after Xinjiang footage

2026-01-30

An immigration judge granted asylum to Chinese national Guan Heng, who said he has a “well founded fear” of persecution if returned to China after exposing alleged human rights abuses in Xinjiang. Guan, 38, has been in custody since an August immigration enforcement operation as part of a broad deportation push.

FBI seizes Georgia ballots, reinforcing Trump’s 2020 election grievance

2026-01-30

FBI agents seized hundreds of ballot boxes and other election records this week at Fulton County’s elections hub outside Atlanta, an action tied to the agency’s efforts to pursue President Donald Trump’s long-running claims about the 2020 election in Georgia. Federal authorities have not publicly explained the purpose of Wednesday’s search and seizure, and the warrant was under seal.

Federal judge allows Massachusetts offshore wind project to proceed

2026-01-30

A federal judge on Tuesday allowed Vineyard Wind, a near-complete Massachusetts offshore wind project, to continue despite a Trump administration stop-work order tied to national security concerns. The ruling in U.S. District Court in Boston halted the administration’s order as developers and states pursue legal challenges to the broader pause of East Coast projects.

Social media giants face landmark youth addiction trial after TikTok settles

2026-01-30

LOS ANGELES (AP) — TikTok agreed to settle a landmark lawsuit over allegations that social media platforms deliberately addict and harm children just before trial was set to begin, plaintiff attorneys confirmed. Jury selection starts this week in Los Angeles County Superior Court against Meta’s Instagram and Google’s YouTube, with executives including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg expected to testify.

Trump says he will reopen Venezuelan airspace for commercial travel

2026-01-30

President Donald Trump said he has directed the United States to reopen all commercial airspace over Venezuela and that Americans could travel there “very shortly.” He also said he told his transportation secretary and U.S. military leaders to take steps to make the change by the end of the day. The State Department continued to warn Americans not to travel to Venezuela, while at least one U.S. airline said it expects to resume direct flights.

Biden administration reports priciest foreign gifts in 2024

2026-01-30

Foreign leaders and governments gave former President Joe Biden, his wife Jill Biden and several top U.S. officials tens of thousands of dollars in gifts in 2024, according to an accounting published by the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Protocol in the Federal Register. The report includes examples such as a $19,000 painting presented to Biden, an $11,165 diamond necklace and perfume received by Jill Biden, and gifts valued at up to $2,633 for former Vice President Kamala Harris.

Fed up with AI slop? A few platforms will let users dial it down

2026-01-30

Pinterest, TikTok and Deezer are among the platforms offering new ways to reduce what users see or hear that is labeled or generated by artificial intelligence. In an “One Tech Tip” guide published Jan. 29, the Associated Press reported how users can adjust settings on each service. The tip also cites Henry Ajder, who advises businesses and governments on AI and has studied deepfakes since 2018.

Police say man charged in car crash at Chabad headquarters in Brooklyn

2026-01-30

A man who drove his car into the Chabad Lubavitch world headquarters in Brooklyn was charged with attempted assault as a hate crime, New York police said Thursday. Police said investigators were still working to determine what prompted the crash Wednesday night. They said the man, Dan Sohail, had recently been trying to connect with the Hasidic community.

Burkina Faso's junta dissolves all political parties, citing divisions

2026-01-30

Burkina Faso's military junta has dissolved all political parties in the country and scrapped the laws governing them, according to a government decree approved Thursday. Minister of Territorial Administration Emile Zerbo said the move comes after authorities determined the parties deviated from their founding guidelines. "The government believes that the proliferation of political parties has led to excesses, fostering division among citizens and weakening the social fabric," Zerbo said after the Council of Ministers approved the measure.

Trump nominates Kevin Warsh to chair the Federal Reserve, to replace Powell

2026-01-29

President Donald Trump nominated Kevin Warsh to chair the Federal Reserve, a decision that will require Senate confirmation. Warsh, whose term would begin as Jerome Powell’s chair role ends in May, faces intense scrutiny from lawmakers and markets over whether he can keep the Fed insulated from politics while also aligning with Trump’s demand for lower interest rates.

Senators look to leave Washington for governor bids in 2026

2026-01-29

Four sitting U.S. senators—Amy Klobuchar, Michael Bennet, Marsha Blackburn and Tommy Tuberville—have announced campaigns for their home state’s governor seat in 2026, a shift from staying in Washington. The Associated Press analysis says 11 senators have announced they plan to retire next year, including nine in the final year of their terms.

Calls grow for Kristi Noem to step down or face impeachment after Minneapolis shootings

2026-01-29

A growing number of Democrats and Republicans are calling for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to step aside or face impeachment after the shooting deaths of two people in Minneapolis who protested deportation policy, according to a range of lawmakers and advocacy groups. President Donald Trump defended Noem, saying on Tuesday and later on Fox News that he has confidence in her and that she should not be replaced.

Father awaits Rafah crossing reopening to reunite with family in Gaza

2026-01-29

A Palestinian man stranded in Egypt for two years says Israel’s planned reopening of the Rafah crossing offers his first chance to reunite with his wife and children in Gaza. Raed Belal, 51, said he is ready to leave Egypt as soon as he is allowed, after Gaza’s borders were largely sealed following Israel’s war against Hamas.

Partial shutdown seems increasingly likely as Democrats demand ICE changes

2026-01-29

Senate Democrats laid out demands Wednesday for the Department of Homeland Security, seeking changes to how Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents conduct immigration arrests and an enforceable code of conduct. The demands set up a standoff over a set of Homeland Security and other funding bills that Republicans have said they do not want altered, with funding for the agencies at risk of expiring Saturday.

FBI executes search warrant at Fulton County elections office for 2020 records

2026-01-29

The FBI searched the Fulton County elections office in Union City, Georgia, seeking records related to the 2020 election, according to an Associated Press report. Agents sealed off an area at the county’s main election facility and removed boxes that an FBI spokesperson said contained ballots. The search came about a week after President Donald Trump predicted prosecutions over the 2020 election.

Democrats seek ICE reforms, raising odds of partial shutdown

2026-01-29

Senate Democrats on Wednesday laid out demands for the Department of Homeland Security, including tighter rules for immigration arrests and limits on how federal agents conduct operations, as funding for DHS and other agencies faces an expiring deadline Saturday. The demands come as Democrats pledged to block a spending bill unless the changes are met, setting up uncertainty over whether President Donald Trump and Republicans will negotiate.

Texas voters head to runoff for House seat and state Senate seat Saturday

2026-01-29

A special runoff election on Saturday will determine the next member of the U.S. House from Texas’ 18th Congressional District, where Houston-area voters have lacked representation for nearly a year. Democrats Christian Menefee and Amanda Edwards advanced from a Nov. 4 special election, setting up the runoff as Texas prepares to redraw the district for November elections.

Trump says he will announce Fed chair nominee Friday morning

2026-01-29

President Donald Trump said Thursday night that he plans to announce his choice for the next chairman of the Federal Reserve on Friday morning. The long-awaited decision comes amid mounting tensions between Trump and Fed Chair Jerome Powell, whose term as chair ends in May.

Warsh’s challenge: winning Fed independence amid Trump rate pressure

2026-01-29

Kevin Warsh is in line to become the next Federal Reserve chair as President Donald Trump has pushed for lower interest rates, setting up a confirmation fight and a test of the Fed’s independence. The outcome hinges on whether Warsh can persuade Fed officials to cut rates while avoiding a loss of trust from the White House and the Senate banking committee.

Who is Fed chair nominee Kevin Warsh?

2026-01-29

President Donald Trump said Friday he would tap former Federal Reserve governor Kevin Warsh to replace Jerome Powell as Fed chair in May, framing the choice as one that could deliver on his economic promises. The nomination puts Warsh, 55, at the center of a fight over how quickly the central bank should cut interest rates.

Starmer starts China trip to mend ties while weighing spying and security

2026-01-29

Keir Starmer said the U.K. does not have to choose between relations with the United States and China as he began a four-day visit to Beijing aimed at repairing ties and expanding opportunities for British companies. The trip comes as both governments emphasize “seeking common ground while managing differences,” amid concerns over Chinese espionage, Hong Kong’s national security crackdown, and disputes involving U.S. President Donald Trump.

Trump considers housing Board of Peace at disputed Washington institute building

2026-01-29

The Trump administration is considering placing its proposed Board of Peace in a Washington building that previously housed the U.S. Institute of Peace, according to four administration officials. The building is tied to legal fights over the federal government’s takeover and the institute’s independence, and its name and status remain in legal limbo.

US sanctions target Iran interior minister over crackdown on protesters

2026-01-29

The Trump administration imposed new U.S. sanctions on Iran’s interior minister, accusing him of overseeing a crackdown on nationwide protests. The European Union separately announced sanctions against him and other senior Iranian officials, escalating coordinated pressure amid months of unrest.

North Korea’s Kim says party congress will unveil next nuclear steps

2026-01-29

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said his country will unveil plans to further bolster its nuclear program at the upcoming ruling party congress, state media reported Wednesday. KCNA said Kim attended a live-fire drill of an upgraded large-caliber multiple rocket launcher on Tuesday and described the test as aimed at strengthening the country’s “strategic deterrent.”

Democrats visit detained 5-year-old at Texas ICE facility

2026-01-29

Democratic U.S. Reps. Joaquin Castro and Jasmine Crockett visited a detained 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy and his father at a Texas federal detention center Wednesday, calling for their release amid heightened backlash against the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement. The lawmakers met the boy and his father in a courtroom at the South Texas Family Residential Center in Dilley, near San Antonio, according to Castro.

Man arrested after spraying substance on Rep. Ilhan Omar at town hall

2026-01-29

A man sprayed an unknown substance on U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar during a town hall in Minneapolis on Tuesday and was tackled by attendees, police said. Omar continued speaking for about 25 minutes after the man was removed and later said she was OK. The man, identified by police as 55-year-old Anthony Kazmierczak, was booked for third-degree assault after officers said he used a syringe to spray an unknown liquid at her.

What to know about Gaza’s Rafah crossing, which could open within days

2026-01-29

Palestinians in Gaza have been largely cut off from Egypt through the Rafah border crossing since Israel seized it in May 2024, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says it could reopen soon under a U.S.-brokered Israel-Hamas ceasefire plan. The reopening, which Israel is expected to control, would focus first on limited numbers of medically injured Palestinians leaving for treatment abroad, with preparations under way in coming days, according to an Israeli official and other people familiar with discussions.

Trump’s federal troop deployments to cities cost $496M, CBO says

2026-01-29

The Congressional Budget Office estimated that the Trump administration’s deployment of federal troops to six U.S. cities has cost taxpayers about $496 million through the end of December. The CBO said continued deployments could cost more than $1 billion for the rest of the year, depending on how long the deployments last.

Trump Accounts would seed babies’ investment accounts with $1,000

2026-01-29

President Donald Trump and the U.S. Treasury are preparing a new program called “Trump Accounts” that would provide $1,000 for newborns if parents open an account. The money would be invested in stock index funds by private financial firms and would generally be available only when the child turns 18.

Trump administration says San Jose State violated Title IX over transgender athlete

2026-01-29

The Trump administration concluded that San Jose State University discriminated against women by allowing a transgender volleyball player to compete on the women’s team, the U.S. Education Department said Wednesday. The department offered the California school a deal that would require it to adopt the administration’s definition of “male” and “female,” restore records and titles the officials said were misappropriated, and issue apologies to affected women athletes.

Suspect in Ilhan Omar spray attack made pro-Trump posts

2026-01-29

Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar blamed President Donald Trump for threats to her safety after a man accosted her at an event in Minneapolis and squirted liquid on her. Omar made the remarks during a press conference on Wednesday, a day after the Tuesday attack, and said fear and intimidation do not work on her.

Hawaii governor backs fast-tracked bills to protect immigrants

2026-01-29

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said Tuesday he would welcome state legislation that fast-tracks protections for immigrants amid a national debate over federal immigration enforcement, including recent deadly incidents involving federal agents. Green made the remarks after speaking to several hundred protesters who rallied in the Capitol rotunda against federal immigration policy.

Native Americans fear ICE and rush to prove their citizenship in IDs

2026-01-29

In Minneapolis, Native Americans say they are carrying tribal identification cards after fears of Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids. The cards, which many nations are making easier and faster to obtain, are intended to help prove U.S. citizenship if federal agents stop or question them.

DOJ opens federal civil rights probe into death of Alex Pretti

2026-01-29

The Justice Department has opened a federal civil rights investigation into the shooting death of Alex Pretti, a Minneapolis resident who was killed Saturday by Border Patrol officers, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said Friday. The Department of Homeland Security said the FBI will lead the probe, shifting federal oversight from Homeland Security Investigations.

Democratic election officials plan crisis scenarios ahead of midterms

2026-01-29

In Minnesota and other states, Democratic election officials say they have started planning election-security “crisis scenarios” for the fall’s midterm elections amid aggressive federal immigration enforcement and a recent FBI search of a Georgia election office. At an annual meeting of state election officials, they described concerns that immigration agents could appear near polling places or that federal authorities could seek access to voting systems. Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said the planning is now meant to deter and mitigate scenarios that the Trump administration has “seeds” aimed at interfering with elections.

DHS uses facial recognition app and AI in Minnesota immigration sweeps

2026-01-29

Federal agents in Minnesota have used biometric tools during immigration encounters, according to an Associated Press investigation published Jan. 30. The report describes DHS increasing surveillance capabilities through facial recognition apps, license-plate readers, and databases, while civil liberties experts warn the approach could expand beyond targeting people the government says it is looking for.

Maine immigration surge ends as Sen. Collins confirms ICE stand-down

2026-01-29

Federal immigration officials have ceased “enhanced operations” in Maine, where hundreds of arrests followed a weekslong enforcement surge, U.S. Sen. Susan Collins said Thursday after speaking with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Collins said there were “no ongoing or planned large-scale ICE operations” in the state, while adding that ICE and Border Patrol would continue “normal operations” ongoing for years. The announcement came amid political pressure on immigration enforcement tactics after a second deadly shooting in Minneapolis involving federal immigration agents.

Seattle ordered to pay over $30 million in CHOP teen death lawsuit

2026-01-29

A King County jury has ordered the city of Seattle to pay more than $30 million to the family of Antonio Mays Jr., 16, after finding the city negligent in its emergency response to his fatal shooting in the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest zone in June 2020. The verdict included $4 million for Mays’ estate and $26 million for his father, Antonio Mays Sr., according to a report by The Seattle Times and the Associated Press.

Trump sues IRS and Treasury for $10B over leaked tax information

2026-01-29

President Donald Trump has filed a lawsuit in Florida federal court seeking $10 billion from the Internal Revenue Service and the Treasury Department, accusing the agencies of failing to prevent leaks of his tax information to news outlets between 2018 and 2020. The suit, filed Thursday, names Trump, his sons Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr., and the Trump Organization as plaintiffs.

Mayors warn Trump’s immigration tactics could damage law-enforcement trust

2026-01-29

Mayors meeting in Washington warned that aggressive federal immigration enforcement could erode residents’ trust in law enforcement. Their remarks came as the killing of Alex Jeffrey Pretti by two federal agents in Minneapolis on Saturday renewed debate over the Trump administration’s tactics.

Rwanda sues UK at Hague over migrant deal payments

2026-01-29

Rwanda says it has filed proceedings at the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration seeking payments from the United Kingdom tied to a failed migrant deal. The deal, which entered into force April 25, 2024, was scrapped after a 2023 UK Supreme Court ruling, and the UK later said it would not make further payments.

Protesters arrested after occupying Hilton lobby during immigration raid claims

2026-01-29

Protesters were arrested Tuesday after they occupied the lobby of a Hilton Garden Inn in Manhattan, demanding the hotel bar federal immigration agents, according to The Associated Press. The demonstration drew criticism amid an ongoing large-scale immigration operation carried out by President Donald Trump’s administration, the report said.

Trump signals easing immigration tensions, but enforcement continues in Minneapolis

2026-01-29

President Donald Trump signaled a willingness to ease tensions in Minneapolis after a second deadly shooting by federal immigration agents, but federal enforcement operations and confrontations with activists continued Wednesday in Minneapolis and St. Paul. In a leadership shift tied to the crackdown, Trump sent his top border adviser to Minnesota and praised Democratic Gov. Tim Walz and Mayor Jacob Frey after phone calls. Still, residents and court watchers described little day-to-day change, even as a federal judge warned ICE about violating court orders.

IRS warns of staffing and law-change hurdles for 2026 tax season

2026-01-29

The IRS’s 2026 tax filing season will likely present challenges for taxpayers who run into problems, the national taxpayer advocate warned, citing workforce cuts and extensive new tax law changes. National Taxpayer Advocate Erin M. Collins released her annual report to Congress on Wednesday, two days after the season began, warning that the filing season’s success will depend on how well the IRS assists people facing issues. The IRS has said it expects a smooth filing season.

Latin American leaders call for unity at Panama forum

2026-01-29

Latin American leaders meeting in Panama City for a regional development forum called for unity as political polarization deepens and as the U.S. takes actions they say are worsening divisions in the region. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, or CELAC, has “not been capable of producing even a single declaration” against illegal military interventions affecting the region.

Montana town rallies for detained mechanic as federal case proceeds

2026-01-29

FROID, Mont. — Border Patrol arrested longtime Froid mechanic Roberto Orozco-Ramirez on Sunday, the U.S. government charged him in federal court in Great Falls, and a judge set a preliminary hearing for Feb. 5. Residents and supporters from across the community packed Wednesday’s hearing, challenging the government’s characterization of him as dangerous.

Republicans fret immigration enforcement chaos could hurt midterms

2026-01-29

Republicans are increasingly concerned that immigration enforcement has become a political liability ahead of the midterm elections after federal agents killed two people during President Donald Trump’s Minneapolis crackdown, according to interviews and congressional comments. With a Jan. 31 deadline for passing government funding approaching, Democrats have said they will block Homeland Security funding unless significant changes are made, while Republicans weigh how directly to press the White House.

Social media reacts to South African man’s Rapture prediction

2026-01-29

A doomsday prediction about the Rapture attributed to a South African man has spread on social media ahead of Sept. 23 or Sept. 24. The claim is based on an apocalyptic message he said he received in a YouTube video posted months ago, and it has prompted both debate among some evangelical Christians and mockery online.

Technical talks over Greenland and Arctic security are underway, Rubio says

2026-01-29

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said technical talks between the United States, Denmark and Greenland are now underway to address differences over an Arctic security arrangement. Rubio said the process began Wednesday and will involve a working group created after a Washington meeting earlier this month with Vice President J.D. Vance.

Families of 67 mark DC crash anniversary, renew push for reforms

2026-01-29

Families of the 67 people killed when an American Airlines jet and an Army Black Hawk helicopter collided near Reagan National Airport gathered Wednesday evening to mark the one-year anniversary of the deadliest aviation accident on U.S. soil since 2001. At the memorial ceremony in Washington, family members renewed calls for federal safety reforms, one day after National Transportation Safety Board investigators testified that the crash was "100% preventable." The collision occurred on January 29, 2025, when the aircraft struck the icy Potomac River. Among the dead were 28 figure skaters bound for a national competition. Everyone aboard both aircraft died in the collision.

Omar blames Trump after spray attack; suspect made pro-Trump posts

2026-01-29

Rep. Ilhan Omar blamed President Donald Trump for what she said were threats to her safety after a man accosted her at a Minneapolis event and squirted a substance, according to a Wednesday news conference. Omar said the president’s “hateful rhetoric” has led to her “death threats” increasing, and she said, “Fear and intimidation doesn’t work on me.”

EPA proposes approval of 8 states’ ozone plans under Good Neighbor rule

2026-01-29

The Trump administration proposed to approve ozone air-pollution plans submitted by eight states, a move the EPA said would remove the need for a federal “Good Neighbor Plan” for those areas. The proposal came Wednesday, when the agency said it found the states “have adequate data” showing they are not interfering with ozone attainment requirements under national air standards.

Nicaraguan man’s death at Texas ICE camp was reported as a suicide

2026-01-29

A Nicaraguan man who died at a Texas immigration detention camp was initially reported as a suicide days after he was detained by federal immigration agents in Minnesota, according to a 911 call and records released this week. The Associated Press reported that Victor Manuel Diaz was found on Jan. 14 at Camp East Montana in El Paso after he had tried to die by suicide, and ICE later said his death was a “presumed suicide.”

California advances bills to confront federal immigration enforcement

2026-01-29

California Democratic senators advanced legislation Tuesday designed to make it easier for people to sue federal agents over civil rights violations, reflecting concerns about the Trump administration's immigration enforcement practices. The measure, known as the 'No Kings Act,' came to a vote days after federal agents killed U.S. citizen and intensive-care nurse Alex Pretti during an enforcement action in Minnesota. The Senate passed the bill 30-10 along party lines and sent it to the Assembly.

FBI searches Georgia elections office Trump targeted for fraud claims

2026-01-29

The FBI on Wednesday executed a search warrant at Fulton County's main election office in Union City, Georgia, seeking records from the 2020 election. The search came one week after the Trump administration predicted prosecutions related to the contest, even as courts and federal officials have repeatedly found no evidence of widespread fraud that would have altered the outcome.

Immigration crackdown slows U.S. population growth to 0.5 percent

2026-01-28

President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown contributed to a sharp drop in the U.S. population growth rate, with the nation reaching 342 million people and growing at just 0.5 percent in 2025, according to estimates released Tuesday by the U.S. Census Bureau. Immigration increased by 1.3 million people in 2025, down from 2.8 million the year prior, marking a striking reversal from 2024's nearly 1 percent growth rate—the highest in two decades.

Trump pitches affordability in Iowa amid federal shooting fallout

2026-01-28

President Donald Trump on Tuesday visited Iowa to pitch his administration's economic record, focusing on tax cuts and tariffs as his White House navigates fallout from a federal immigration officer shooting in neighboring Minnesota. Trump gave his speech in Clive, a suburb of Des Moines, claiming that tax cuts had enriched Americans and stock market performance had soared under his administration. The visit was part of a White House strategy to emphasize affordability ahead of midterm elections this year — elections that will determine control of Congress.

FEMA still has billions for winter storm response even amid shutdown

2026-01-28

The Federal Emergency Management Agency could still support winter storm response even if a partial government shutdown begins at midnight Friday, experts and former FEMA officials said, despite warnings from the Trump administration. They cited a remaining balance of about $7 billion to $8 billion in FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, which pays for disaster response and recovery work.

California Senate passes bill easing civil rights suits against ICE

2026-01-28

California's Democratic-controlled Senate advanced a civil rights measure Tuesday that would make it easier for people to sue federal agents over rights violations. The bill, called the "No Kings Act," passed 30 to 10 along party lines after more than 90 minutes of floor debate. The legislation was shaped by Democratic concerns about the Trump administration's immigration enforcement escalation, underscored by the shooting death of Alex Pretti, a U.S. citizen and ICU nurse, by federal agents in Minnesota last weekend.

California lawmakers advance community college bachelor's degree bill

2026-01-28

California lawmakers advanced Assembly Bill 664 on Jan. 26, clearing the state Assembly with a 69-1 vote. The measure would allow community colleges to offer more bachelor's degrees, setting up another clash with Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has vetoed three similar bills in the past two years despite supporting increased access to four-year degrees.

Appeals court rules Trump acted illegally ending protections for Venezuelans

2026-01-28

A federal appeals court ruled late Wednesday that the Trump administration acted illegally when it ended temporary legal protections that let hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans live and work in the United States. The 9th Circuit upheld a lower-court ruling saying Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem exceeded her authority when she ended Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelans.

EPA proposes easing air pollution rule on interstate emissions

2026-01-28

The Trump administration on Wednesday proposed eliminating federal oversight of interstate air pollution by approving eight states to regulate ozone emissions as they determine appropriate, the Environmental Protection Agency said. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin described the action as "cooperative federalism," replacing what he called a "heavy-handed, one-size-fits-all, federal mandate." The affected states are Alabama, Arizona, Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico and Tennessee, which the EPA under the Biden administration had found had not sufficiently controlled emissions traveling across state lines. Environmental groups said the proposal would harm downwind states by allowing industrial pollution to travel without federal constraint. "Letting states off the hook while their pollution continues harming air quality in neighboring states is dangerous," said Zachary Fabish, a Sierra Club lawyer.

FBI search at Georgia election office spotlights Trump’s 2020 election claims

2026-01-28

FBI agents served a search warrant at the election headquarters of Fulton County, Georgia, seeking 2020 voting records, in a move that highlights Donald Trump’s long-running false claims that the 2020 election was marred by widespread fraud. The raid comes as Trump again occupies the White House and pressures the federal government to pursue those allegations, according to Associated Press reporting.

Alabama transfers inmate activists to solitary confinement

2026-01-28

The Alabama prison system has transferred three prominent inmate activists to solitary confinement at Kilby Correctional Facility, with family members and attorneys saying the men are being held in severe isolation. Robert Earl Council, Melvin Ray and Raoul Poole were moved from their existing prisons two weeks ago and are now in isolated cells with severely restricted contact with family and other inmates, according to their lawyers.

Anchorage, Alaska announce partnership targeting theft, drugs and violent crime

2026-01-28

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced a new partnership with the Municipality of Anchorage aimed at addressing public safety concerns in the state’s largest city. During the governor’s final State of the State address, he pointed to Anchorage’s share of murders, sexual assaults, car thefts and robberies statewide.

‘Blindsided’ by budget cut, Michigan early childhood programs fight to survive

2026-01-28

Michigan early childhood programs tied to Great Start Collaboratives are facing closures or reduced services after the state budget did not include previously allocated funding, according to reporting. Parents and program leaders say the regional collaboratives help connect families to early learning resources, including child-care information and free books. The cuts are also unfolding as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer emphasizes expanding access to no-cost pre-K for 4-year-olds.

CBS News chief Bari Weiss tells staff ‘we’re toast’ without change

2026-01-28

CBS News chief Bari Weiss told staff three months after taking over that the network risks falling behind if it sticks with its current strategy. In remarks released publicly Tuesday, Weiss invoked Walter Cronkite as an example of old thinking and said “we’re toast” without changes that broaden how CBS News meets audiences.

Greg Bovino, architect of Trump’s immigration sweeps, leaves Minneapolis

2026-01-28

Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol commander who has led large-scale immigration enforcement in multiple U.S. cities, is leaving Minneapolis after federal agents fatally shot two people in less than three weeks, the Associated Press reported. The agency’s enforcement efforts in the city have drawn criticism from activists and residents and have become part of a broader Trump administration crackdown, the AP said.

Judge orders pause on removal of 5-year-old boy detained in Minnesota

2026-01-28

A federal judge on Monday issued a temporary order blocking the removal or transfer of a 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy and his father, who were detained last week in Minnesota in a case that has inflamed U.S. immigration disputes. Judge Fred Biery ordered the pause while a court case proceeds, according to court records and reporting by The Associated Press.

Trump shifts Minnesota approach after federal shooting kills nurse

2026-01-27

President Donald Trump shifted toward a more conciliatory approach with Minnesota's Democratic leaders on Monday, a sudden reversal that followed a federal agent's fatal shooting of a nurse during immigration enforcement operations. The Saturday death of Alex Pretti, a nurse at a Veterans Affairs hospital, sparked outcry from across the political spectrum, including from some Republicans questioning the administration's aggressive tactics.

Two federal officers fire shots, killing Minneapolis nurse

2026-01-27

Two federal officers fired shots during an encounter with Alex Pretti, an intensive care nurse, over the weekend in Minneapolis, a Customs and Border Protection official told Congress this week. Pretti died in the encounter. The disclosure came amid scrutiny of federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota, where this is the second fatal shooting by immigration law enforcement this month. Separately, Ecuador filed a diplomatic protest after federal immigration agents attempted to enter the country's consulate in Minneapolis without authorization.

NTSB calls deadly DC collision '100% preventable,' cites FAA failures

2026-01-27

The National Transportation Safety Board on Tuesday determined that the midair collision that killed 67 people near Washington, D.C., one year ago was "100% preventable" and resulted from systemic failures at the Federal Aviation Administration. NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy said the FAA ignored repeated warnings about helicopter traffic dangers for years, including a request from a regional supervisor in 2023 to reduce air traffic and documented concerns from a 2013 near miss at Reagan National Airport.

Trump campaigns on affordability in Iowa ahead of midterms

2026-01-27

President Donald Trump visited Iowa on Tuesday to campaign on his administration's economic record, touting tax cuts and stock market gains as part of a White House push to focus on affordability ahead of November's midterm elections. The trip to Clive, a suburb of Des Moines, marks the beginning of a strategy to have Trump travel outside Washington once weekly through the midterms, which will determine control of Congress.

Trump replaces Minneapolis immigration commander following fatal shooting

2026-01-27

Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino is expected to leave Minneapolis on Tuesday, according to a person familiar with the matter, following the fatal shooting of an ICU nurse by federal immigration officers. The departure marks a significant shift in the Trump administration's immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota, which has drawn legal challenges and intense criticism from local officials and civil rights advocates. President Trump said he was placing border czar Tom Homan in charge of the operation, with Homan reporting directly to the White House.

Foreign pledges of $5 trillion in US investment face skepticism

2026-01-27

Top US trading partners pledged more than $5 trillion in investment in America, responding to President Donald Trump's use of tariff threats to extract concessions. But a study released Tuesday by researchers at the Peterson Institute for International Economics raises substantial doubts about whether the money will actually materialize. "How realistic are these commitments?" wrote Gregory Auclair and Adnan Mazarei of the Peterson Institute. "The short answer is that they are clouded with uncertainty." The researchers examined investment pledges made in 2025 by the European Union, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and the Persian Gulf states of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.

Canada’s Carney says Trump tariff threats are “bluster” ahead of talks

2026-01-27

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Monday that some U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats should be understood as “positioning” ahead of renewed U.S.-Canada free-trade talks. Carney made the remarks as Canada prepares for a review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement this year, with trade officials characterizing the process as a “review” rather than a full renegotiation.

India and EU conclude historic free trade agreement

2026-01-27

India and the European Union reached a sweeping free trade agreement on Tuesday after nearly two decades of negotiations, a deal that will cut tariffs on wine, automobiles, textiles and medicines for two of the world's major economies. The agreement, described by the European Commission chief as the "mother of all deals," affects nearly 2 billion people and comes as both nations seek alternatives amid escalating United States tariffs.

Families of boat-strike victims sue Trump administration

2026-01-27

Families of two Trinidadian fishermen killed in a Trump administration boat strike last October sued the federal government on Tuesday, calling the attack a war crime and part of an "unprecedented and manifestly unlawful U.S. military campaign." The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Massachusetts, is the first wrongful death case challenging the legality of strikes the administration has launched on boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since September. The Trump administration has defended the strikes as necessary to stem drug trafficking into the United States.

US takes first steps to reopen Venezuela embassy after Maduro ouster

2026-01-27

The Trump administration has notified Congress of plans to reopen the U.S. Embassy in Venezuela, marking the first formal step toward restoring diplomatic relations following the military operation that ousted President Nicolás Maduro in early January. The State Department said it will deploy temporary staffers to conduct "select" diplomatic functions while the existing embassy compound is brought up to standard.

Virginia court strikes down Democratic redistricting amendment

2026-01-27

A Virginia judge on Tuesday ruled illegal a proposed constitutional amendment that would have let Democrats redraw the state's congressional districts, dealing a setback to the party's efforts to gain House seats. The decision came as Democrats advanced a new congressional map in neighboring Maryland that could flip the state's only Republican House seat, illustrating different strategies in the national battle over mid-decade redistricting.

Army promotes seven Japanese American soldiers who died after Pearl Harbor

2026-01-27

Seven Japanese American soldiers who died fighting for the United States during World War II were posthumously promoted to officer ranks in a ceremony in Honolulu on Monday, about 80 years after their deaths. The Army approved the promotions last year, and the University of Hawaii awarded posthumous degrees in 2012, according to the Army and the university.

Honolulu sees fireworks citations rise after new laws; drones tested

2026-01-27

Honolulu Fire Department and police citations for fireworks violations rose in the second half of 2025 after Hawaii took new steps to curb illegal fireworks, newly released state data show. From July 4, 2025 through Jan. 1, 47 citations were issued on Oʻahu, including 29 issued on New Year’s Eve.

Minneapolis shootings roil immigration fight, raise shutdown risk in Congress

2026-01-27

The shooting deaths of two U.S. citizens during deportation operations in Minneapolis have reshaped immigration politics in Congress and raised the risk of another government shutdown, according to Associated Press reporting. Democrats are seeking changes to Department of Homeland Security’s military-style immigration enforcement while Republicans signal they want hearings and an investigation related to the deaths. Congress is now wrestling with how to handle a six-bill funding package that is expected to cover more than 70% of federal operations.

Three federal investigations open into Minneapolis nurse killing by Border Patrol

2026-01-27

A Minneapolis nurse has been fatally shot by a Border Patrol officer in an incident that has prompted three federal investigations while raising questions about the independence and structure of the probes. Alex Pretti, 37, an intensive care nurse, was killed over the weekend during a federal immigration enforcement operation in the city, marking the second death at the hands of federal immigration officers in Minneapolis since the Trump administration began large-scale operations there in late December. The Trump administration has characterized Pretti as an armed instigator, but videos from the scene and local officials contradict that account. The investigation's details, including the names of the officers involved and the specific evidence being examined, remain unclear even as tensions mount in the city over how the shooting will be investigated.

Israeli soldier held Italian officers at gunpoint in West Bank

2026-01-27

An Israeli soldier held two Italian Carabinieri officers at gunpoint on Sunday in the West Bank near Ramallah, drawing a strong protest from Italy and a pledge of investigation from Israel. Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani summoned Israeli Ambassador Jonathan Peled to Rome, where Peled expressed regret and committed to an investigation.

Mexico pauses oil shipments to Cuba, citing sovereign decision

2026-01-27

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Tuesday her government has paused oil shipments to Cuba, marking a shift as the Trump administration intensifies isolation efforts against the island. Sheinbaum characterized the suspension as a sovereign decision not made under U.S. pressure, though the move follows Trump's stated goal of cutting off Cuba's remaining energy sources after a U.S. military operation deposed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Bangladeshi workers lured to Russia, forced into Ukraine war

2026-01-27

An Associated Press investigation found that Bangladeshi migrant workers were lured to Russia with false promises of civilian jobs — as janitors, cleaners, and chefs — only to be coerced into military service and sent to fight on the front lines of the Ukraine war. Three workers who escaped told AP they were presented with Russian military contracts upon arrival in Moscow, sent to army camps for weapons training, and threatened with violence, imprisonment, and death when they resisted. Documents including travel papers, military contracts, medical reports, and photographs corroborated the accounts.

Trump order targets LA wildfire rebuilding permits amid funding dispute

2026-01-27

President Trump signed an executive order Friday directing federal agencies to streamline permits for rebuilding homes destroyed by the January 2025 Los Angeles area wildfires, White House officials said Tuesday. The order seeks to preempt state and local permitting rules, allowing builders to "self-certify" compliance with building standards.

Chicago man faces deportation after acquittal in murder-for-hire case

2026-01-27

A Chicago carpenter acquitted of murder-for-hire charges against a Border Patrol commander has been taken into federal immigration custody and faces deportation, according to his attorneys. Juan Espinoza Martinez, 37, was cleared of the charges late last week. Within 24 hours, federal immigration agents picked him up, defense attorneys Jonathan Bedi and Dena Singer confirmed Tuesday.

Credibility questioned for Trump administration after Pretti's death

2026-01-27

The Trump administration's account of Alex Jeffrey Pretti's death at the hands of a U.S. Border Patrol officer in Minneapolis has been challenged by video evidence, raising questions about the credibility of federal immigration enforcement agencies. Videos showed Pretti being pushed by an officer before agents descended on him, contradicting claims by administration officials that he "approached" officers with a gun and acted violently.

Federal judge halts removal of detained 5-year-old and father

2026-01-27

A federal judge has issued a temporary order barring the removal of a 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy and his father who were detained last week in Minnesota in an incident that has inflamed immigration policy debates under the Trump administration. U.S. Judge Fred Biery ruled Monday that removal of Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias, is on hold while their court case proceeds. The two are detained at a family detention facility in Dilley, Texas, near San Antonio.

Bovino, architect of Trump's immigration sweeps, departs Minneapolis

2026-01-27

Gregory Bovino, the commander of President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown operations nationwide, is leaving Minneapolis after federal agents fatally shot two people in less than three weeks. Bovino had served as the chief architect and public face of the administration's city-by-city immigration sweeps since arriving in Minnesota in December for what the Department of Homeland Security called its largest-ever immigration enforcement operation. His departure comes amid mounting criticism over his use of aggressive, norm-breaking tactics.

U.S. population growth drops to lowest level since 1919 as immigration slows

2026-01-27

The U.S. population growth rate fell to 0.5% in 2025, the lowest level since 1919, driven by a sharp decline in immigration that followed stricter Trump administration policies, according to Census Bureau estimates released Tuesday. The nation's population reached nearly 342 million, but the growth rate plummeted from nearly 1% in 2024, when increased immigration was the primary engine of growth.

Federal shooting of armed Minneapolis man sparks gun-rights backlash

2026-01-27

Prominent gun-rights advocates and Republican figures pushed back this week against federal officials' initial characterization of Alex Pretti's death in Minneapolis, forcing the White House to walk back statements that blamed Pretti for his own death. Pretti, a legally armed man, was killed by a federal agent on Saturday during what authorities initially described as an encounter involving violent resistance. Video evidence released since the incident contradicted those initial federal statements about Pretti's conduct.

Trump endorses Rep. Tom Tiffany in Wisconsin governor race, rival quits

2026-01-27

President Donald Trump endorsed U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany in Wisconsin’s open race for governor, a move that prompted Tiffany’s top Republican rival, Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann, to drop out less than a day later. Trump made the endorsement in a Tuesday night social media post, and Schoemann said he was “congratulat[ing]” Tiffany and wished him “great success” in November.

Opponent challenges Tommy Tuberville’s eligibility for Alabama governor bid

2026-01-27

A Republican opponent has challenged U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s eligibility to run for Alabama governor, arguing the football coach-turned-politician does not meet the state’s seven-year residency requirement. The challenge was filed Tuesday with the Alabama Republican Party by Ken McFeeters, who says Tuberville appears to live in Florida rather than Alabama.

German government cuts 2026 growth forecast to 1% as momentum fades

2026-01-27

Germany’s government cut its forecast for economic growth for 2026, projecting gross domestic product will expand about 1% this year, Economy Minister Katherina Reiche said Wednesday. The revision comes as the chancellor’s coalition seeks to revive an economy that grew only modestly after a two-year contraction.

EU trade deal with India shows Europe seeking new partnerships

2026-01-27

The European Union’s new free trade agreement with India, announced Tuesday, highlights the bloc’s push to diversify its economic ties amid uncertainty in U.S. trade and security policy. The deal, which reflects nearly two decades of negotiations, could affect as many as 2 billion people and cut tariffs on most goods traded between the EU and India, according to the European Commission and EU officials.

Florida “Alligator Alcatraz” detainees testify on barriers to attorneys

2026-01-27

Two former immigration detainees at a state-run detention center in Florida’s Everglades known as “Alligator Alcatraz” testified that staff punished them for trying to seek legal help, including by cutting monitored calls when they discussed lawyers. The detainees spoke by video during a two-day hearing in federal court in Fort Myers, asking a judge to issue a temporary injunction to ensure access to attorneys that they say is comparable to federally run facilities.

France finance minister urges Capgemini to explain ICE contract

2026-01-27

France’s finance minister, Roland Lescure, urged lawmakers late Tuesday to press French tech company Capgemini to be “fully transparent” about a contract it signed with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The contract, awarded in December through Capgemini’s subsidiary Capgemini Government Solutions, is drawing new scrutiny as calls grow to examine the agency’s role in the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

No Kings protesters plan March 28 demos after Minneapolis deaths

2026-01-27

A third round of “No Kings” protests is planned for March 28, organizers said, as protests spread nationwide after deaths in Minneapolis involving federal agents. Ezra Levin, co-executive director of Indivisible, said organizers expect the demonstrations to be their largest yet.

Protesters arrested after sit-in at Manhattan Hilton Garden Inn lobby

2026-01-27

Dozens of protesters were arrested Tuesday after they occupied the lobby of a Hilton Garden Inn in Manhattan, accusing the hotel of housing federal immigration officers, the Associated Press reported. Police ordered the crowd to leave before arresting those who remained, and a hotel press contact did not respond to requests for comment.

Ten die in New York City's bitter cold amid preparedness questions

2026-01-27

At least ten people died from exposure to extreme cold in New York City since late Friday, as temperatures plummeted to 9 degrees Fahrenheit and raised questions about the city's preparedness to protect its most vulnerable residents. The victims, several of whom were believed to be homeless, were found in different locations across the five boroughs — on park benches in Queens, steps from a Manhattan hospital, and beneath an elevated train line in the Bronx. At least six of the deaths occurred early Saturday, when the temperature in the city fell to minus 13 degrees Celsius.

No charges for officers in death of restrained man in Massachusetts

2026-01-27

Seven Massachusetts police officers will not face criminal charges in the death of Francis Gigliotti, a 43-year-old man who became unresponsive during police restraint in Haverhill, a Boston suburb. Essex District Attorney Paul Tucker announced Tuesday that charges were not legally supportable.

Texas halts new H-1B visa petitions at state agencies and universities

2026-01-27

Gov. Greg Abbott ordered Texas universities and state agencies on Tuesday to halt new H-1B visa petitions, which employers use to hire foreign workers with specialized skills, until May 31, 2027. The pause applies to new petitions at state-funded institutions and comes as the Trump administration pursues broader changes to the visa program. Abbott said in his order that "state government must lead by example and ensure that employment opportunities — particularly those funded with taxpayer dollars — are filled by Texans first."

Texas plans takeover of four districts over persistently low test scores

2026-01-27

The Texas Education Agency announced plans to take over four school districts and replace their elected school boards with state-appointed leaders, citing five consecutive years of failing grades at six campuses. The districts — Fort Worth, Beaumont, Connally, and Lake Worth — serve predominantly low-income Black and Hispanic students in circumstances that critics say reflect systemic inequity schools cannot solve alone.

Youngkin pardons ex-police sergeant in fatal mall shooting

2026-01-27

Former Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin pardoned ex-Sgt. Wesley Gonzalez Shifflett on Jan. 15 in the fatal 2023 shooting of an unarmed man accused of stealing sunglasses at a mall. The pardon, issued days before Youngkin's term ended, comes amid a nationwide debate over legal protections for law enforcement and when use of deadly force is justified.

Nevada regents approve 9-12% tuition increase to cover shortfall

2026-01-27

Nevada's higher education system approved tuition increases of between 9 and 12 percent Friday, with regents voting 8 to 5 to raise costs across eight public universities and colleges. The hikes, phased in over three years, are intended to cover a $46.5 million systemwide budgetary shortfall driven in part by historic faculty cost-of-living payments authorized in 2023 and 2024. At the University of Nevada, Reno and University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada undergraduate students will pay an additional $1,200 annually, while out-of-state undergraduates will pay $3,800 more per year. The increase comes atop an existing 12.6 percent tuition hike, also phased in over three years, meant to help institutions keep pace with inflation.

CBS News chief warns staff: 'We're toast' without strategic change

2026-01-27

Bari Weiss, three months into her role as CBS News chief, told staff on Tuesday that the network faces an existential crisis without strategic transformation. "We're toast" if CBS News continues relying on its remaining broadcast television audience, Weiss said in remarks she released publicly.

Minneapolis shooting exposes fissure in Republican gun politics

2026-01-27

Federal officers shot and killed Alex Pretti, an armed Minneapolis man, on Saturday, and the White House initially characterized him as responsible for his own death because he lawfully carried a concealed weapon. Within days, prominent Republicans and gun rights advocates mounted swift criticism of those statements, and the administration retreated from its account, illustrating a deeper inconsistency in party positions on the Second Amendment.

U.S. security unit deployment to Milan Olympics angers Italy

2026-01-27

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that Homeland Security Investigations, a unit within Immigration and Customs Enforcement, will assist with security at the Milan-Cortina Winter Games starting Feb. 6. The deployment has set off concern and confusion in Italy, where officials and residents expressed outrage at the inclusion of any ICE unit, given the agency's role in the Trump administration's immigration enforcement operations, which have intensified in Minneapolis in recent weeks.

Michigan cuts $19.4 million from early childhood programs

2026-01-27

Michigan's state budget eliminated $19.4 million in annual funding for Great Start Collaboratives, regional programs that connect families with child development resources and child-care information. The cut also removed $4 million for book distribution efforts, forcing some communities to close their programs entirely and others to reduce services sharply.

TikTok faces censorship claims and glitches after ownership change

2026-01-27

TikTok is managing technical problems and a spike in app uninstalls following its ownership restructuring, as users reported concerns about potential content censorship. California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Monday he is directing state attorneys to investigate whether TikTok is violating California law by censoring Trump-critical content.

Vermont auditor finds state missing energy reduction targets

2026-01-27

Vermont's state government is failing to meet its longstanding energy reduction goals, according to a recent audit by State Auditor Doug Hoffer. The Department of Buildings and General Services, which oversees the State Energy Management Program, has not been measuring the state's progress despite a legal requirement to report on it every two years.

Alaska announces state-city partnership to tackle Anchorage crime

2026-01-27

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy announced a new state-city partnership to address public safety concerns in Anchorage during his final State of the State address. Dunleavy said the city accounted for 55% of Alaska's murders, 51% of sexual assaults, 67% of car thefts, and more than 78% of robberies in 2024. Police Chief Sean Case welcomed the state's assistance but disputed the governor's framing, arguing that larger cities naturally experience higher crime rates than smaller jurisdictions.

DOJ withdraws subpoenas seeking records of trans youth patients in L.A.

2026-01-27

The U.S. Justice Department agreed to withdraw subpoenas seeking patient and medical records from Children’s Hospital Los Angeles tied to gender-affirming care for minors, according to a settlement filed in federal court Thursday. The agreement ends the Justice Department’s effort to obtain information identifying patients and their families through 2029.

EU opens investigation into Musk’s X over Grok sexual deepfake images

2026-01-27

The European Union opened a formal investigation into Elon Musk’s social media platform X after its Grok artificial intelligence chatbot produced nonconsensual sexualized deepfake images on the platform, according to the European Commission. The EU’s executive said the probe also expands a separate, ongoing inquiry into X’s recommendation systems after X said it would rely on Grok to choose which posts users see.

LA homeless services CEO charged with fraud over luxury spending, authorities say

2026-01-27

Los Angeles homeless services charity CEO Alexander Soofer was arrested Friday and faces federal wire fraud and state felony charges, prosecutors said. Authorities alleged the nonprofit received more than $23 million in taxpayer-related homelessness housing funding that Soofer used for a luxury lifestyle instead of shelter and meals for homeless residents.

Review finds former Alaska revenue commissioner fell short on due diligence

2026-01-27

An outside legal review ordered by Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy has found that former revenue commissioner Adam Crum deviated from state policy when investing Alaska savings in private equity, failing to perform required due diligence before committing millions, according to the report. The review also said Crum engaged outside lawyers to represent the state in the investment without obtaining approval of the attorney general. It found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing or self-dealing.

Two quiet USPS changes may slow some mail in Vermont

2026-01-27

Vermont’s U.S. Postal Service has implemented changes to how some mail is transported and postmarked that advocates say could slow delivery for many residents, according to reporting published Sunday. The changes include a new regional processing approach tied to the agency’s “Delivering for America” plan and a clarification that USPS says explains what postmarks do, not a shift in procedures.

Businesses caught between ICE raids and calls to oppose them

2026-01-27

After U.S. Border Patrol shot and killed Alex Pretti in Minneapolis in late January, more than 60 Minnesota-based corporate executives—including the heads of Target, Best Buy, and UnitedHealth—quickly signed an open letter calling for "an immediate deescalation of tensions." Yet the letter carefully avoided naming immigration enforcement directly or acknowledging the widely-circulated videos showing federal agents detaining two Target employees in the same state just days earlier. The tension reflected a broader dilemma: American businesses are increasingly both targeted by immigration enforcement operations and pressured publicly to take stronger stances against those same operations.

Helena police withdraw from drug task force over border patrol

2026-01-27

The Helena Police Department has withdrawn from a regional drug task force after the agency decided to collaborate with U.S. Border Patrol agents. Police Chief Brett Petty announced the temporary exit from the Missouri River Drug Task Force during a city commissioners meeting Wednesday, citing concerns that the partnership could shift the department's focus from drug enforcement to immigration enforcement.

Six people killed during US immigration enforcement operations

2026-01-27

At least six people have died during the Trump administration's immigration enforcement campaign, with videos contradicting federal accounts of at least two of the deaths. The most recent death was a 37-year-old Minneapolis nurse shot by a Border Patrol officer on Jan. 24. Videos showed his hands held only a phone when the officer opened fire.

Michigan student from Myanmar blocked by Trump travel ban

2026-01-27

A University of Michigan student from Myanmar has been unable to return to the U.S. to complete his degree after President Trump imposed a travel ban on 12 countries, leaving him stranded abroad following a summer internship. Patrick Thaw had planned to resume his studies in Ann Arbor but found re-entry impossible once the ban took effect in January 2026.

Thousands rally in Belgrade against crackdown on universities

2026-01-27

Thousands gathered outside the University of Belgrade on Tuesday to protest the government's crackdown on academics who have become central to sustained demonstrations against President Aleksandar Vucic's rule. The rally, held on a national day of education and dubbed "Knowledge is Power," was organized in support of professors and teachers who have lost their jobs for participating in anti-government protests.

Trump-backed Asfura sworn in as president of Honduras

2026-01-27

Nasry Asfura, a Trump-backed businessman, was sworn in Tuesday as president of Honduras, pledging to lead the country "with the full commitment required to deliver real solutions to every corner of our beloved Honduras." The 67-year-old took office at Congress in an austere ceremony without foreign dignitaries, though diplomatic representatives attended.

USPS ends evening mail pickups in Vermont under DeJoy plan

2026-01-27

The U.S. Postal Service has eliminated evening mail collection throughout Vermont, implementing a strategy that extends first-class mail delivery from two days to three days for many state residents. The change, called Regional Transportation Optimization, is part of the "Delivering for America" restructuring that began under former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and continues under his successor, David Steiner. USPS did not publicly announce the change until it was revealed through a regulatory filing in January.

Minneapolis nurse killed by Border Patrol as family disputes account

2026-01-26

Alex Pretti, an intensive care nurse at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, was shot and killed by Border Patrol officers on Saturday in a confrontation the Trump administration characterized as a "domestic terrorist" attack. His family and colleagues disputed that account, describing the 37-year-old as a compassionate caregiver whose only documented offense was protesting the administration's immigration crackdown.

Minnesota’s misinformation site and evidence lawsuit deepen feud with feds

2026-01-26

Minnesota officials launched a state website aimed at countering what they called federal “misinformation” after immigration agents fatally shot two residents during the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, according to officials and experts. The state also sued in federal court to preserve evidence collected by federal authorities after the Saturday killing of Alex Pretti, a federal judge granted a motion blocking the Trump administration from destroying or altering that evidence.

Dr. William Foege, smallpox eradication leader, dies at 89

2026-01-26

Dr. William Foege, who led the global campaign that eradicated smallpox, died Saturday in Atlanta. He was 89. The Task Force for Global Health, which he co-founded, announced his death. Foege's work on smallpox eradication — a disease that once killed about one-third of those it infected — stands among the greatest public health achievements. His "ring containment" strategy, developed while working as a medical missionary in Nigeria in the 1960s, became the cornerstone of the worldwide eradication effort.

Trump raises tariffs on South Korean goods over stalled trade-deal approval

2026-01-26

President Donald Trump announced Monday he is increasing tariffs on South Korean goods because the country's legislature has yet to approve a trade framework announced last year. Import taxes on autos, lumber and pharmaceutical drugs from South Korea will be raised, while rates on other goods would increase from 15% to 25%, Trump said on social media.

Carney says Canada won’t pursue free trade with China as Trump warns of tariffs

2026-01-26

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Sunday that Canada has no intention of pursuing a free trade agreement with China, responding to U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of a 100% tariff on goods imported from Canada. Carney said Canada’s recent China agreement cuts tariffs on a limited set of sectors that had been hit with tariffs, and he said the country is instead honoring commitments tied to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

Moderate Sen. Jacky Rosen calls for Noem impeachment amid Minneapolis fury

2026-01-26

Democratic Sen. Jacky Rosen has called for the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, saying he believes she attempted to “mislead the American public” about a fatal shooting of a 37-year-old protester in Minneapolis. The call comes as Democrats have escalated their criticism of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and warned they would block Homeland Security funding unless Congress takes action.

Supreme Court signals limits on Trump firing Fed governor Lisa Cook

2026-01-26

The U.S. Supreme Court appeared Wednesday to be limiting President Donald Trump’s ability to remove a Federal Reserve governor, signaling a different standard for the central bank than for other independent agencies. During oral arguments in a case involving Gov. Lisa Cook, justices discussed whether Trump could keep her in office while litigation continues over his attempt to remove her.

Trump impeachment foe Alex Vindman enters Florida Senate race

2026-01-26

Alex Vindman, a former Trump impeachment witness and an Army veteran, announced on Tuesday that he is running as a Democrat for the U.S. Senate in Florida. If he wins the party nomination, he would challenge Republican Sen. Ashley Moody, who was appointed to the seat after Marco Rubio became secretary of state.

USS Abraham Lincoln arrives in Middle East as Trump weighs Iran action

2026-01-26

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and three accompanying destroyers arrived in the Middle East on Monday, bringing what U.S. Central Command characterized as a renewed military presence to promote "regional security and stability"—even as President Trump has sent conflicting signals about whether he intends to launch airstrikes against Iran over its violent crackdown on protesters. The strike group's arrival comes as Trump has alternated between threatening airstrikes and suggesting Iran may have made concessions, creating uncertainty about whether the administration intends to strike. At least 5,973 people have been killed in the crackdown, according to activists, with more than 41,800 detained.

Minneapolis shootings upend immigration politics in Congress

2026-01-26

Two deaths during immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis have upended congressional politics around deportations, pushing lawmakers toward a government shutdown. Democrats are withholding funds for the Department of Homeland Security unless restrictions are placed on ICE operations, while some Republicans are signaling second thoughts about the administration's approach. The shift marks a reversal from just a year ago, when Congress easily passed legislation tightening immigration enforcement with bipartisan support.

Army posthumously promotes seven Japanese American WWII soldiers

2026-01-26

Seven Japanese American soldiers who were branded "enemy aliens" after Pearl Harbor were promoted to officer rank posthumously on Monday in Honolulu, more than 80 years after they died fighting for the United States in World War II. The men had been University of Hawaii ROTC cadets barred from military service following Japan's attack on December 7, 1941, before joining the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, which became one of the most decorated units in U.S. military history.

Europe's far-right fractures over Trump's Greenland ambitions

2026-01-26

Europe's far-right parties have unexpectedly distanced themselves from President Trump over his plans to take control of Greenland, fracturing an alliance that appeared unshakeable less than a year ago. The rift demonstrates that shared nationalism and anti-establishment ideology may not be enough to overcome concerns about national sovereignty and foreign intervention.

First refugee to lead UN agency warns of 'very difficult moment'

2026-01-26

Barham Salih, the first refugee to lead the United Nations refugee agency, said Monday the world faces "a very difficult moment in history" as the U.S. cuts funding and tightens asylum restrictions. Speaking from Rome in an interview with the Associated Press, the former president of Iraq warned that repression of immigrants is growing while resources to protect them are plummeting.

Lawyers challenge Mexico's cartel transfers to US without due process

2026-01-26

Mexican lawyers and family members accused the government on Monday of violating the law by sending nearly 100 cartel members to the United States without extradition orders. The challenge centers on 37 cartel suspects transferred recently as Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum seeks to maintain cooperation with the Trump administration, which has pressed Mexico to intensify its cartel crackdown.

Death toll from U.S. strikes on alleged drug boats reaches 126

2026-01-26

The death toll from U.S. military strikes on alleged drug boats has reached 126 people, the U.S. military confirmed Monday. The figure includes 116 people killed in at least 36 attacks since early September in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, plus 10 others presumed dead after searches did not locate them, U.S. Southern Command said.

Federal judge dismisses DOJ bid for Oregon voter rolls after Bondi letter

2026-01-26

A federal judge in Oregon dismissed a U.S. Justice Department lawsuit seeking the state’s unredacted voter rolls on Monday, saying the Justice Department did not meet the legal standard for obtaining the records. U.S. District Judge Mustafa Kasubhai scheduled the hearing after letters from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi that also urged state support for federal immigration enforcement.

Commerce Dept invests $1.6B in rare earth miner USA Rare Earth

2026-01-26

The U.S. Commerce Department announced Monday a $1.6 billion investment in USA Rare Earth, an Oklahoma-based company, providing funding and financing to advance rare earth mining operations in Texas and build a magnet manufacturing facility in Oklahoma. The Commerce Department will receive equity stake and future purchase rights as part of the agreement. The investment is part of a broader Trump administration effort to reduce American dependence on China, which processes more than 90% of the world's critical minerals.

Border czar Homan to visit Minneapolis after nurse's death

2026-01-26

Border czar Tom Homan will visit Minneapolis this week following the fatal shooting of an ICU nurse, as videos and eyewitness accounts challenge the Trump administration's account of the incident and calls mount for investigation into immigration enforcement tactics.

DOJ drops effort to obtain transgender patients' records

2026-01-26

The U.S. Department of Justice agreed on January 26 to withdraw subpoenas seeking medical records of more than 3,000 transgender patients from Children's Hospital Los Angeles, ending a monthslong legal battle by families fighting the government's effort to access their children's medical information. Under the settlement filed in federal court Thursday, the department will withdraw requests for documents that identify patients or their families through 2029.

EU opens specification proceedings to require Google to share AI access

2026-01-26

The European Union said it is stepping in to ensure Google gives rival AI companies and search engines access to Gemini services and data under the Digital Markets Act. The EU’s executive arm will open so-called “specification proceedings” to set out how Google must provide “equally effective access” to the same features available through its own services, and to assess access to Google Search data.

LA homeless charity CEO charged in $23 million fraud scheme

2026-01-26

Alexander Soofer, the 42-year-old CEO of Abundant Blessings, a Los Angeles nonprofit contracted to house and feed homeless residents, was arrested Friday at his $7 million home on federal and state fraud charges. Prosecutors allege he diverted approximately $23 million in public funds intended for more than 600 homeless residents to finance a luxury lifestyle including a $125,000 Range Rover, a $2,450 Hermès jacket, and vacations to Greece and Hawaii.

Treasury ends Booz Allen contracts over tax information leak

2026-01-26

The U.S. Treasury Department has ended its contracts with Booz Allen Hamilton, citing the defense contractor's failure to safeguard confidential tax information. The decision follows the 2024 conviction of Charles Edward Littlejohn, a former Booz Allen employee who worked as an IRS contractor and was sentenced to five years in prison for leaking tax data about thousands of wealthy Americans, including President Donald Trump.

Minnesota GOP candidate drops out, citing Trump immigration 'disaster'

2026-01-26

A Minnesota Republican gubernatorial candidate dropped out of the 2026 race Monday, calling the Trump administration's immigration enforcement operations in his state an "unmitigated disaster." Chris Madel, a 59-year-old attorney and political newcomer, announced his decision in a video posted to X hours after a federal agent fatally shot Minneapolis resident Alex Pretti in an immigration sweep. Madel said the enforcement operation has driven U.S. citizens—particularly those of color—to carry papers to prove their citizenship, a practice he called fundamentally wrong.

Republicans appeal court decision that voided NYC's only GOP House district

2026-01-26

Republicans appealed a judge's decision Monday that voided New York City's only GOP-controlled House district, setting the stage for a legal battle with national implications for Congress. The appeal came days after a judge ruled that Rep. Nicole Malliotakis' Staten Island and Brooklyn district was drawn to dilute the voting power of Black and Hispanic residents. The judge ordered the state's Independent Redistricting Commission to redraw the district by February 6, according to the Associated Press.

Inconsistent policies stymie Nevada's attendance push

2026-01-26

Inconsistent school attendance policies across Nevada are hampering districts' efforts to combat chronic absenteeism, which still affects more than a quarter of students statewide. Even parents who have raised children in the Clark County school system for years struggle to navigate the rules. "I still don't understand the attendance policies," Jenna Robertson told The Nevada Independent. "Except that they're inconsistent from school to school, and people have complained about it for years."

Honolulu cites twice as many fireworks violations under new laws

2026-01-26

Honolulu issued 47 citations for fireworks violations in the second half of 2025, double the number issued in either of the previous two years, as newly enacted laws gave law enforcement expanded tools to crack down on illegal fireworks. Twenty-nine of the citations were issued on New Year's Eve alone. The enforcement surge reflects new laws signed by Hawaii Gov. Josh Green before July 4, 2025, which streamlined the process for issuing civil fines and authorized the use of unmanned drones for surveillance.

Alaska official deviated from state law investing $50M, review finds

2026-01-26

Former Alaska Revenue Commissioner Adam Crum deviated from state policy when investing $50 million in a private equity fund, according to an outside review released Monday. The investigation, conducted by D.C. law firm WilmerHale at Gov. Mike Dunleavy's direction, found that Crum failed to perform necessary due diligence before committing the funds to DigitalBridge and violated fiduciary duties under state law. The state ultimately lost roughly $859,000 on the investment after selling it to an Israeli insurance company.

ACIP votes to shift hepatitis B newborn shot guidance to 2 months

2026-01-26

Federal health officials have advised for years that babies get a hepatitis B vaccine dose within 24 hours of birth, but a federal vaccine advisory committee voted to change that recommendation on Friday. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to recommend a dose at birth only for newborns whose mothers test positive for hepatitis B or whose infection status is unknown, and it suggested starting shots at about 2 months for other babies.

Brazil takes over Mexico’s embassy in Peru after diplomatic rift

2026-01-26

Brazil said it has taken over Mexico’s diplomatic interests in Peru after a rift tied to a former Peruvian prime minister granted asylum in Mexico, leaving police and consular staff facing uncertainty around the embassy in Lima. The Brazilian foreign ministry said it was acting “with the consent of the Peruvian government.” The countries had severed diplomatic relations more than two months earlier over the asylum grant by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

Georgia judge dismisses DOJ voter data lawsuit filed in wrong venue

2026-01-26

A federal judge in Georgia dismissed a U.S. Justice Department lawsuit seeking voter information from the state, ruling the government filed the case in the wrong city. U.S. District Judge Ashley Royal ruled the Justice Department should have sued Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger in Atlanta rather than in a separate federal judicial district in Macon.

Macron urges fast-tracking ban on social media for children under 15

2026-01-26

French President Emmanuel Macron said he wants France to fast-track a legal ban on social media for children under 15 so it can take effect in September at the start of the next school year. Macron said this in a video released late Saturday by French broadcaster BFM-TV, adding that he had asked the government to initiate an accelerated procedure to have the bill passed by the Senate in time.

Veteran DC Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton ends reelection campaign

2026-01-26

Veteran District of Columbia Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton filed paperwork to end her reelection campaign for Congress, according to an election filing reported Friday. Norton, 88, has served as the District’s sole member in the House since 1991. Her filing was submitted to the Federal Election Commission and was first reported by NOTUS.

Venezuela releases 266 prisoners as 600+ remain detained

2026-01-26

Venezuela's acting government released 266 prisoners since January 8 under newly installed president Delcy Rodríguez, as the country responds to U.S. pressure to free dissidents jailed by ousted leader Nicolás Maduro. More than 100 prisoners were freed over the past two days, according to Foro Penal, a prisoner-rights organization.

European leaders reject Trump's Greenland ultimatum

2026-01-25

European leaders delivered coordinated rejections of President Donald Trump's demand that the United States "absolutely" must rule Greenland, with senior officials warning that threats have no place among allied nations. The unified stance emerged at the World Economic Forum in Davos last week, marking a shift toward openly confronting the American president after struggling to forge consensus for a year.

Trump discloses secret weapon in Venezuela operation, targets cartels

2026-01-25

President Donald Trump said in a Friday interview that the U.S. employed a secret weapon he called "The Discombobulator" to disable Venezuelan military equipment during the operation that captured Nicolás Maduro. Speaking to the New York Post, Trump claimed the weapon prevented Venezuelan forces from launching Russian and Chinese rockets and said "they pressed buttons and nothing worked." Trump also renewed threats to conduct military strikes against drug cartels, saying the U.S. could extend operations from South America into Mexico and Central America. "Could be anywhere," he said when asked if strikes could occur in Mexico or Central America. The comments came days after the U.S. carried out a strike Friday on an alleged drug-trafficking boat in the eastern Pacific Ocean, the first such action since Maduro's capture in early January.

Trump blames Democrats for chaos after fatal Minneapolis immigration shooting

2026-01-25

President Donald Trump blamed Democratic officials for "chaos" following the fatal shooting of a protester by a federal immigration officer in Minneapolis, according to posts on his Truth Social network and comments to The Wall Street Journal on Sunday. The shooting of 37-year-old Alex Pretti marked the second killing by immigration officers in the city in recent weeks and prompted some Republicans to question the administration's enforcement approach even as Trump refused to back away from his immigration crackdown.

Federal and state officials clash over deadly Minneapolis shooting

2026-01-25

Federal and state officials offered starkly different accounts Sunday of a shooting death the day before in Minneapolis, with the Trump administration and Minnesota's governor each claiming the moral authority to respond to the incident and its aftermath. Governor Tim Walz asked the public to choose a side: "Which side do you want to be on?" he said. "The side of an all-powerful federal government that could kill, injure, menace and kidnap its citizens off the streets, or on the side of a nurse at the VA hospital who died bearing witness to such government?" Federal Border Patrol official Greg Bovino offered a different characterization. "When someone makes the choice to come into an active law enforcement scene, interfere, obstruct, delay or assault law enforcement officer and — and they bring a weapon to do that. That is a choice that that individual made," he told reporters.

Court filings raise questions about ICE’s “worst of the worst” in Maine

2026-01-25

Immigration and Customs Enforcement said it detained some of the “worst of the worst” during a Maine enforcement operation this past week, but federal court records show a broader set of cases, the Associated Press reported. ICE said it detained more than 100 people statewide in what it called “Operation Catch of the Day.” Court filings reviewed by AP and comments from attorneys and local officials raised questions about how ICE described detainees and what happened after removal orders.

Trump's new defense strategy shifts focus to Western Hemisphere

2026-01-25

The Trump administration's Pentagon released a sweeping National Defense Strategy on Friday that fundamentally reorders U.S. military priorities, demanding that allies boost their own defense spending while shifting American focus from containing China to securing dominance in the Western Hemisphere, including access to Greenland and the Panama Canal.

Minnesota’s House special elections set up battleground in District 64A

2026-01-25

Minnesota voters will choose winners in two special elections for Minnesota House seats on Tuesday, with control of the chamber at stake. The Associated Press decision notes that Republicans held a 67-65 advantage after Democrats won other offices in November, and that the contests follow recent protests tied to fatal shootings involving federal immigration enforcement. The AP said it would treat District 47A as effectively uncontested because Democrat Shelley Buck is the only candidate on the ballot.

Rosen calls for Noem impeachment over fatal ICE shooting

2026-01-25

Democratic Sen. Jacky Rosen of Nevada called for the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, saying that Noem is attempting to mislead the public about a fatal shooting by a Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis. The call came as Democratic anger intensified over the incident and a second fatal shooting by immigration agents this month. Rosen said Noem's conduct was "deeply shameful" and she "must be impeached and removed from office immediately." The senator made the call in a statement after Noem swiftly defended the shooting without awaiting a full investigation.

Senate Democrats vow to oppose DHS funding after Minneapolis shooting

2026-01-25

Senate Democrats vowed to oppose a Department of Homeland Security funding bill following a fatal shooting by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent in Minneapolis, escalating the risk of a partial government shutdown by week's end. Alex Pretti, 37, an intensive care nurse, was shot and killed; federal officials defended the agent's actions as justified, while Democrats said video evidence contradicted that account and demanded policy changes to the agency.

Zelenskyy says US security agreement for Ukraine is ready to sign

2026-01-25

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Sunday that a U.S. security guarantees agreement for Ukraine is "100% ready" and waiting for partners to set a signing date. Speaking in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, Zelenskyy said the document would go to the U.S. Congress and Ukrainian parliament for ratification once a date is established. The announcement followed two days of trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi involving representatives from Ukraine, the United States, and Russia.

Eleanor Holmes Norton ends DC delegate reelection campaign

2026-01-25

Eleanor Holmes Norton, the 88-year-old delegate representing Washington, D.C., filed paperwork to end her reelection campaign for Congress, where she has served since 1991. The Federal Election Commission filing was made on Sunday. Mayor Muriel Bowser congratulated Norton on her retirement. "For 35 years, Congresswoman Norton has been our Warrior on the Hill," Bowser wrote on social media. "Her work embodies the unwavering resolve of a city that refuses to yield in its fight for equal representation."

After accepting U.S. deportees, South Sudan sought sanctions relief, documents show

2026-01-25

South Sudan, after agreeing last year to accept deportees from the United States, sent Washington a list of requests that included U.S. support for prosecuting opposition leader Riek Machar and sanctions relief for former vice president Benjamin Bol Mel, U.S. diplomatic communications released by the State Department show. The requests, dated in May and marked confidential, also sought visa easing and other assistance. The U.S. said it “does not disclose the details of private discussions” when asked whether anything was promised in return.

Texas Democrats align on taxes, diverge on Trump impeachment

2026-01-25

Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico, competing in a heavily Republican state's Democratic Senate primary, debated their candidacy January 24 before hundreds of labor union members at the Texas AFL-CIO political convention. Both aligned on raising taxes on the wealthy and ending tariffs, but distinguished themselves on whether to pursue President Donald Trump's impeachment and how aggressively to cut immigration enforcement funding. The March 3 primary winner will face the victor of a Republican contest that includes incumbent Sen. John Cornyn.

Trump defense strategy shifts focus from NATO Europe to China

2026-01-25

The Trump administration released a new National Defense Strategy on January 24 that represents a fundamental reorientation of U.S. military priorities away from NATO and Europe toward confronting China in the Indo-Pacific region. The strategy, the first comprehensive Pentagon planning document since the Biden administration issued its own in 2022, signals that allied nations must assume greater responsibility for their own defense. It calls for NATO allies to raise defense spending to 5 percent of gross domestic product and reflects a systematic shift in how the United States views commitments across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Western Hemisphere. The changes span every major geographic theater of U.S. military operations and represent a substantial reordering of defense policy priorities that will shape military posture, resource allocation, and alliance relationships for years to come.

South Sudan sought sanctions relief after accepting US deportees, documents show

2026-01-25

South Sudan sought sanctions relief for a senior official and U.S. support for prosecuting an opposition leader after agreeing to accept American deportees, according to diplomatic communications released by the State Department in January. The eight deportees arrived in Juba, South Sudan's capital, in July after spending weeks at a U.S. military base in Djibouti, where a court temporarily blocked their deportation.

FEMA extends Maui wildfire housing aid for survivors through Feb. 2027

2026-01-25

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green said U.S. officials approved a request to extend FEMA temporary housing assistance for survivors of the 2023 Maui wildfires until February 2027. Green said U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem approved the extension in a news release.

Haiti transition council votes to dismiss Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé

2026-01-25

The Haitian presidential transition council voted to dismiss Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, according to council members who announced the decision at a news conference Friday, two weeks before the panel is due to step down. The move comes as Haiti faces rising gang violence and mounting pressure to hold general elections, with provisional dates set for August and December.

California Post launches on the West Coast with tabloid-style outlet

2026-01-25

LOS ANGELES — California Post launched Monday as a new tabloid newspaper and news website from the New York Post newsroom to serve readers in California. The Los Angeles operation is set up to be “digital first,” while offering a daily print edition for $3.75, including splashy front-page headlines.

Man arrested for assaulting congressman at Sundance Film Festival

2026-01-25

A man was arrested Friday night at the Sundance Film Festival for assaulting U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, a Florida Democrat, after allegedly telling the congressman he would be deported by President Donald Trump. Christian Joel Young, 28, faces charges of aggravated burglary, assaulting an elected official, and assault following the incident at a private party hosted by talent agency CAA at High West Distillery in Park City, Utah.

Republicans press for investigation into fatal Minneapolis shooting

2026-01-25

A growing number of Republicans are pressing for a deeper investigation into federal immigration tactics in Minnesota after a U.S. Border Patrol agent fatally shot Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse at a VA hospital. House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Andrew Garbarino sought testimony from immigration agencies, while Sens. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska also pressed for more information. The calls for scrutiny suggest the Trump administration's accounting of the incident may face bipartisan review.

Federal immigration officer shoots and kills man in Minneapolis

2026-01-25

A federal immigration officer shot and killed a man on Minneapolis's Eat Street early Saturday, marking the second such fatal federal shooting in the city in less than three weeks. The victim, identified as Alex Pretti, 37, was killed shortly before 9 a.m. during an immigration enforcement operation. The shooting sparked immediate large-scale protests and hours of street confrontations.

Minnesota CEOs urge de-escalation in federal enforcement crisis

2026-01-25

More than 60 CEOs of Minnesota-based companies signed an open letter posted Sunday on the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce website calling for state, local and federal cooperation in response to an immigration enforcement operation that has fractured state politics. Signatories included leaders from Target, Best Buy, UnitedHealth, General Mills and 3M.

China’s top general, Zhang Youxia, investigated in military purge

2026-01-25

China’s Defense Ministry said it is investigating Zhang Youxia, the top general and one of the two vice chairs of the Central Military Commission, for suspected serious violations of discipline and law. The ministry said Saturday that another commission figure, Liu Zhenli, also has been placed under investigation by the Communist Party. The announcement came as China continues a broad anti-corruption campaign within the military.

Court order reshapes New York’s only GOP-held House district

2026-01-25

A judge in Albany ordered new congressional district lines for New York, scrapping the boundaries of the state’s only Republican-held House seat in New York City. The decision, issued Wednesday by Judge Jeffrey Pearlman, gives the state’s Independent Redistricting Commission until Feb. 6 to complete a new map, with candidate petitioning expected to start at the end of February. For Democrats, the ruling creates an opportunity in the national redistricting fight even as Republicans have promised an appeal and the new lines could be delayed or changed.

Dueling accounts after ICE detains 5-year-old in Minnesota

2026-01-25

MINNEAPOLIS — A 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy detained by U.S. immigration officers in Minnesota has become a flashpoint, with school officials, neighbors and the boy’s family attorney disputing the federal account of how the child was handled. The Department of Homeland Security rejected claims that officers used the child as “bait,” and said the father fled on foot and left the boy in a running vehicle in the family’s driveway.

Judge to consider asylum appeal for Guan Heng, held after rights videos

2026-01-25

Guan Heng, a Chinese asylum seeker who secretly filmed detention sites in Xinjiang, is in U.S. custody and is asking a judge to block his removal. A judge on Monday is set to consider his appeal to remain in the United States after he was swept up in an immigration enforcement operation in August.

Pakistani court sentences human rights lawyers to 17 years each over social media

2026-01-25

A Pakistani court on Saturday sentenced human rights lawyers Zainab Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha to 17 years in prison each over social media posts authorities said were hostile to the state and its security institutions. The verdict was announced by Judge Afzal Majoka a day after the couple were arrested in Islamabad, according to court documents.

Minneapolis volunteers shelter immigrant children separated from parents

2026-01-25

Minneapolis residents are sheltering immigrant children separated from their parents as federal immigration agents escalate enforcement operations across the Twin Cities. More than 2,000 federal agents have been deployed in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security reported more than 3,000 arrests since early December. The volunteers providing shelter also arrange rent payments for families afraid to work, deliver meals, and establish emergency custody arrangements.

Labour blocks Manchester mayor from parliamentary race

2026-01-25

The UK Labour Party's National Executive Committee voted Sunday to block Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from running as a candidate in a special parliamentary election, a decision the party said would prevent unnecessary costs but that prompted criticism from some members who questioned whether leadership tensions drove the outcome.

Myanmar military completes elections designed to cement control

2026-01-25

Myanmar held the final round of a three-stage election on Sunday, completing a process that has assured military-backed forces of a parliamentary majority and the power to form the next government. Critics said the elections were neither free nor fair and were designed to legitimize military rule five years after the military overthrew the elected government of Nobel Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi in February 2021.

Opposition leader's wife describes attack by armed men in her home

2026-01-25

Armed men in military uniform broke into Barbara Kyagulanyi's home in Kampala on Friday night and attacked her as they demanded to know where her husband, opposition leader Bobi Wine, was, she told reporters from her hospital bed on Saturday. Kyagulanyi, known affectionately as Barbie, said she refused to cooperate with the dozens of intruders and refused their demands to unlock her mobile phone. She was treated for bruises and anxiety at Nsambya Hospital after the assault, which she recorded on her phone.

Winter storm cancels 13,000 flights, threatens half of US

2026-01-25

A major winter storm canceled more than 13,000 flights and brought dangerous ice and heavy snow to nearly half of the United States over the weekend, threatening about 180 million people across a path stretching from the southern Rocky Mountains to New England, according to the National Weather Service.

Trump threatens Canada with 100% tariff over China trade deal

2026-01-24

President Donald Trump on Saturday threatened to impose a 100% tariff on Canadian goods if Canada proceeded with a trade deal with China, intensifying a dispute with Prime Minister Mark Carney over both trade policy and geopolitical alignment. Trump said in a social media post that if Carney "thinks he is going to make Canada a 'Drop Off Port' for China to send goods and products into the United States, he is sorely mistaken."

Pulte increases mortgage bond purchase limits for lenders

2026-01-24

Bill Pulte, President Trump's federal housing finance director, granted government-backed mortgage lenders the authority to hold significantly more bonds than previously permitted, according to an email obtained by The Associated Press. The Jan. 12 email from the Federal Housing Finance Agency eliminated caps that prohibited Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac from each holding more than $40 billion in mortgage bonds, raising the limits to $225 billion apiece. The move reverses nearly two decades of post-2008 financial-crisis safeguards, according to the AP.

Court records challenge ICE's characterization of Maine detainees

2026-01-24

Immigration and Customs Enforcement claimed last week that its enforcement surge in Maine targeted some of the state's most dangerous criminals, including "child abusers and hostage takers." But court records paint a more complicated picture of the more than 100 people detained statewide in what ICE called "Operation Catch of the Day." While some detainees had serious felony convictions, others faced far less serious charges — including a learner's permit violation that was dismissed. Many had no criminal convictions at all, according to court records and immigration attorneys.

Iran's bloodiest crackdown since 1979 comes into focus amid shutdown

2026-01-24

Iran's authorities have killed thousands of demonstrators in what activists describe as the bloodiest crackdown on dissent since the country's 1979 Islamic Revolution, according to the Associated Press. The violence, which has damaged at least $125 million in property and cut the country off from the internet, comes as the United States prepares military options in response. Hundreds of cities across Iran have been affected by the month-long wave of protests, which began in late December as demonstrations over the collapse of Iran's currency spiraled into broader calls for change.

Scale of Iran protests and crackdown come into focus

2026-01-24

Iran’s nationwide protests that began Dec. 28 and a deadly crackdown that followed are coming into focus, despite authorities cutting off internet access, the Associated Press reported. The AP said an Amnesty International researcher described most demonstrations as peaceful and said the authorities “have opened fire unlawfully.”

Haiti Council Votes to Oust Prime Minister Before Transition

2026-01-24

Haiti's transitional council voted Thursday to fire Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, just two weeks before the panel is scheduled to step down. Council members Edgard Leblanc Fils and Leslie Voltaire announced the decision Friday, defying U.S. government warnings that the change would undermine efforts to combat gang violence. The U.S. State Department said retaining Fils-Aimé was "integral" to Haiti's security efforts.

California lawmakers seek faster spending on voter-approved climate bond

2026-01-24

California lawmakers advanced a bill that would speed up spending approved by voters for climate-related projects, including water improvements and wildfire and drought preparedness. The measure, introduced by Assemblymember David Alvarez, would exempt certain funding tied to Proposition 4 from review under California’s Administrative Procedure Act. The bill moved from the Assembly Appropriations Committee on Thursday and is expected to face a floor vote in the Assembly next week.

Crockett and Talarico align on much in Texas Senate debate

2026-01-24

Democrats Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico differed more on style than substance in their first U.S. Senate debate on January 24 at the Texas AFL-CIO convention, though they distinguished themselves on the future of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and impeachment of President Donald Trump. Crockett, an outspoken second-term House member from Dallas, said she would support impeachment proceedings against Trump, starting with investigations into his use of tariffs. Talarico, a four-term state representative and Presbyterian seminarian, stopped short of endorsing impeachment, saying instead he would fairly weigh any evidence presented during a Senate trial. Both candidates aligned on major domestic policy, including calls for higher taxes on wealthy earners, support for Medicare for all, and ending Trump's tariffs. The two will compete in the March 3 Democratic primary, with the winner facing either Sen. John Cornyn, Rep. Wesley Hunt or Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in a race expected to be challenging for Democrats in a heavily Republican state.

USS Cincinnati visits Cambodia's China-upgraded naval base amid warming US ties

2026-01-24

The USS Cincinnati, a U.S. Navy warship, arrived at Cambodia's Ream Naval Base on Saturday, marking the first visit by an American military vessel to the facility since its Chinese-funded renovation was completed early last year. The visit signals warming military ties between the United States and Cambodia after years of tension.

Trump's Defense Strategy Shifts Away From NATO Focus to China Priority

2026-01-24

The Trump administration released a new National Defense Strategy on January 24 that marks a significant shift in U.S. military priorities, moving away from the alliance-first approach of the Biden administration. The strategy re-frames Russia as a 'manageable threat' that European allies are 'substantially more powerful' than, calling on NATO members to take primary responsibility for their own defense while the United States focuses on defending its homeland and competing with China. The strategy also signals reduced direct U.S. military involvement across the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and other regions, asking allies from South Korea to regional powers to assume leading roles in deterring threats.

Carney fires back at Trump after Davos remarks, and Trump revokes invite

2026-01-24

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s Davos remarks that “Canada lives because of the United States” by saying Canada “thrives because we are Canadian.” Carney made the comments after returning from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he criticized coercion by great powers on smaller countries without naming Trump.

Indiana lawmakers consider extending syringe exchange programs for a decade

2026-01-24

Indiana lawmakers are considering whether to extend legalized syringe exchange programs that operate in six counties, as opponents argue the programs enable drug use and supporters say they reduce infections and overdoses. The programs could shut down in July 2026 unless the Indiana Senate passes Senate Bill 91, which would keep them running for another decade.

Jack Smith tells House Judiciary his probe showed Trump sought to stay in power

2026-01-24

Former special counsel Jack Smith testified Thursday before the House Judiciary Committee about his investigation into President Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Smith said his inquiry showed Trump “sought to prey” on his supporters and “looked for ways to stay in power,” which he said culminated in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack.

Myanmar's military secures control in final disputed election round

2026-01-24

Myanmar's military and its allies secured control of Parliament in the final round of a three-stage election held Sunday, capping a process that critics say was designed to legitimize military rule after a 2021 coup. The results continue a pattern established in the first two rounds: the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party leading in seat counts, with a structure guaranteeing the armed forces themselves 25 percent of parliamentary seats.

FEMA extends housing aid for Maui wildfire survivors until 2027

2026-01-24

U.S. officials have extended federal housing assistance for survivors of catastrophic 2023 wildfires on Maui, granting relief to nearly 1,000 displaced households. The Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem approved Hawaii Governor Josh Green's request on Friday to continue Federal Emergency Management Agency temporary housing assistance until February 2027, more than a year longer than previously scheduled.

Border Patrol kills Minneapolis ICU nurse amid immigration crackdown

2026-01-24

A U.S. Border Patrol officer shot and killed Alex Jeffrey Pretti, 37, in Minneapolis on Saturday during the Trump administration's immigration enforcement crackdown. Pretti was an intensive-care nurse at a Veterans Affairs hospital and a U.S. citizen born in Illinois. He had participated in protests following the January 7 killing of Renee Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in the same city.

White House shares altered image of attorney arrest in Minnesota, AP finds

2026-01-24

The White House shared an altered image showing civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong appearing to cry while being arrested in Minnesota, according to an Associated Press fact check. The original photo posted by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on X showed Levy Armstrong with a neutral expression. AP reported that the White House later shared a manipulated version of the image.

Judge voids Republican House district over voting dilution

2026-01-24

A New York judge on Friday voided the boundaries of New York City's only Republican-held House district, ruling that its composition unconstitutionally dilutes the votes of Black and Hispanic residents. Justice Jeffrey Pearlman's decision forces the state's Independent Redistricting Commission to draw new lines by February 6—just 16 days before candidate petitioning begins—upending political calculations in a race both parties are fighting to control.

Minneapolis volunteers shelter immigrant children as ICE sweeps intensify

2026-01-24

Minneapolis residents are sheltering immigrant children separated from parents and sought by federal immigration agents during the Trump administration's enforcement surge in the Twin Cities. A 41-year-old Indigenous Ecuadorian office cleaner was detained in early January after entering the country illegally, prompting her oldest children to move their seven younger siblings to a safe house in south Minneapolis with help from church volunteers including Feliza Martinez. "The immigration agents were knocking on our door very late at night, and that's when I became afraid," said the family's 20-year-old son, speaking on condition of anonymity. "I'm afraid that I'll be taken and my brothers and sisters will be in the hands of the government."

Government and school offer conflicting accounts in 5-year-old's ICE detention

2026-01-24

The detention of a 5-year-old Ecuadorian boy by federal immigration agents outside his Minnesota home has produced sharply conflicting accounts. School officials say ICE officers used the child as "bait," instructing him to knock on the door while his mother was inside and his father was present. The Department of Homeland Security denies this, saying the father fled on foot and left the boy in a running vehicle in their driveway. The boy, Liam Conejo Ramos, and his father, Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias, are now detained together at a family facility in Dilley, Texas.

Chinese asylum seeker who exposed Xinjiang abuses fights deportation

2026-01-24

Guan Heng, a Chinese asylum seeker who documented detention facilities in Xinjiang, faces a court hearing Monday to determine whether he will remain in the United States or be deported. The 38-year-old has been held in Broome County Correctional Facility in New York since August 2025, when immigration agents detained him during an enforcement operation.

Collins and Mills offer diverging takes on ICE arrests in Maine

2026-01-24

Maine’s Democratic Gov. Janet Mills and Republican Sen. Susan Collins offered sharply different reactions on Friday to a surge in Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests in the state. Mills challenged ICE to provide judicial warrants, real-time arrest numbers and basic information about who is being detained, while Collins said people in the country legally should not be targeted and urged protesters to avoid interfering with arrests.

Family sues nonprofits after bulldozer kills homeless man in Atlanta

2026-01-24

The family of a homeless man who died after a bulldozer crushed his tent during an Atlanta encampment sweep last year has filed a lawsuit against two nonprofits. The suit, filed Friday, accuses Partners for HOME and SafeHouse Outreach of failing to check whether the man was in his tent before a bulldozer was deployed to clear the site.

ICE memo would allow home entries without judge’s warrant, advocates say

2026-01-24

The Associated Press reported that an Immigration and Customs Enforcement memo directs officers to forcibly enter people’s homes without a judge’s warrant, raising concerns about the Fourth Amendment and about risks to residents. The story was published Jan. 23, 2026, and includes accounts of ICE tactics in multiple states.

Iran’s prosecutor denies Trump claim 800 prisoners spared execution

2026-01-24

Iran’s top prosecutor on Friday denied U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Iran halted executions of 800 detained protesters, calling it “completely false.” The denial came as activists said a crackdown on nationwide demonstrations has killed at least 5,032 people, with an internet blackout in Iran entering its second week. The Associated Press reported the exchange amid escalating tensions as an American aircraft carrier group moves closer to the Middle East.

Meta pauses teens’ access to AI characters on Instagram and WhatsApp

2026-01-24

Meta Platforms said it is halting teens’ access to AI characters on Instagram and WhatsApp, at least temporarily, starting in the “coming weeks.” The company said the change will apply to people who gave Meta a birthday that makes them a minor and to those it suspects are teens based on its age-prediction technology. Meta said teens will still be able to access its AI assistant.

NIH ends funding for research using abortion-derived fetal tissue

2026-01-24

The Trump administration said it will no longer allow human fetal tissue derived from abortions to be used in research funded by the National Institutes of Health. The policy announced Thursday expands restrictions that were imposed during the administration’s first term and later lifted by President Joe Biden’s administration.

Petro optimistic about Trump meeting as tensions ease

2026-01-24

Colombian President Gustavo Petro expressed optimism Friday about a high-stakes White House meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump scheduled for February 3, marking a significant de-escalation after months of hostility. The announcement comes after the U.S. revoked Petro's visa and imposed sanctions on him and his family over unproven drug-trafficking allegations.

Volunteers rehearse Milan Cortina opening ceremony set for Feb. 6

2026-01-24

Classically trained dancers from La Scala's academy are among approximately 1,200 volunteers rehearsing since November for the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony, scheduled for Feb. 6. The ceremony is being prepared in a cavernous tent near Milan's San Siro stadium, where creative director Marco Balich is orchestrating the event. About 60,000 people are expected to attend live, including a U.S. delegation led by Vice President JD Vance, while millions will watch on official broadcasters worldwide.

Hermès menswear designer Nichanian takes final bow after 37 years

2026-01-24

Hermès menswear designer Véronique Nichanian presented her final collection Saturday during Paris Fashion Week, closing 37 years leading the house's menswear design. The Fall-Winter 2026 show, staged at the Palais Brongniart—the former Paris stock exchange—featured her signature understated aesthetic and concluded with Nichanian stepping out to acknowledge a standing ovation.

Iraq nominates al-Maliki for prime minister after rival steps aside

2026-01-24

Iraq's dominant political bloc on Saturday nominated former prime minister Nouri al-Maliki as its candidate for prime minister, after caretaker Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani stepped aside earlier this month. The selection is likely to be polarizing among Iraq's Sunni community, given al-Maliki's earlier accusations of monopolizing power and alienating Sunni and Kurdish minorities.

Morocco's king appeals for unity after chaotic Cup final and hate speech surge

2026-01-24

King Mohammed VI of Morocco on Thursday called for African fraternity and unity, urging Moroccans to resist resentment and discord following a chaotic Africa Cup of Nations final that has prompted rights groups to warn of a surge in hate speech. The tournament's closing match, held Sunday in Morocco, ended 1-0 for Senegal in extra time, touching off field violence that saw 18 supporters arrested and an escalation of racial tensions on social media.

Vance celebrates Trump's abortion record at March for Life rally

2026-01-23

Vice President JD Vance spoke Friday at the annual March for Life rally in Washington, urging anti-abortion activists to "take heart" in the Trump administration's efforts to restrict abortion access. Vance detailed the administration's expansion of restrictions on U.S. foreign aid to abortion-supporting groups and praised the 2022 Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade, calling it "the most important Supreme Court decision of my lifetime."

Supreme Court shields Federal Reserve while expanding Trump's agency firing power

2026-01-23

The Supreme Court appeared Wednesday to carve out a distinct exception for the Federal Reserve from President Trump's expanded authority to fire heads of independent agencies. Justice Brett Kavanaugh said allowing Trump to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook would "weaken, if not shatter, the independence of the Federal Reserve." The justices' signals suggest they see the Fed differently than other government agencies where they have already permitted Trump to dismiss officials for any reason.

San Diego parking fees at Balboa Park spark swift backlash

2026-01-23

San Diego imposed its first-ever parking fees at Balboa Park this month to secure dedicated funding for the century-old cultural site and help close a city budget gap, but the policy prompted immediate backlash that has already reshaped how residents and tourists engage with the park. Museum visitation dropped 20 percent in the opening days, vandals defaced parking meters, and two city council members who voted for the program now call for suspending the fees.

Indiana syringe exchanges face July 2026 shutdown unless lawmakers act

2026-01-23

Indiana's syringe exchange programs face closure in July 2026 unless state lawmakers pass legislation to extend them, a decision point in a broader debate over harm reduction during the opioid crisis. The programs, operating in six counties, would shut down automatically if Senate Bill 91 fails to pass. The legislation, filed by Sen. Michael Crider, a Republican from Greenfield, would extend the exchanges for another decade.

Trump ties foreign policy to personal whim as alarmed allies organize

2026-01-23

President Donald Trump has based significant diplomatic decisions on personal slights during the past week — revoking Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's invitation to his Board of Peace and threatening tariffs on Switzerland, Denmark, and Canada over his personal interactions with their leaders. The moves illustrate what Trump and his advisers describe as a "maximalist strategy" and what alarmed allied leaders increasingly call a destabilizing departure from the rules-based international order that has underpinned U.S. foreign policy since World War II.

US sanctions 9 tankers transporting Iranian oil amid crackdown

2026-01-23

The United States imposed sanctions Friday on nine tankers accused of transporting hundreds of millions of dollars in Iranian oil, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced, linking the action to Iran's internet shutdown and crackdown on nationwide protests. Bessent said the sanctions 'target a critical component of how Iran generates the funds used to repress its own people.' The government blocked internet access on January 8 as nationwide protests challenged Iran's theocratic system, and the Treasury tied the sanctions directly to the shutdown.

Pentagon builds largest Middle East force in decades as Trump threatens Iran

2026-01-23

The Pentagon is deploying the largest force of American warships and aircraft to the Middle East in decades, including two aircraft carrier strike groups, as President Donald Trump warns of possible military action against Iran if nuclear talks fail. The buildup marks a sharp escalation of military pressure on Tehran over its nuclear program.

Ugandan opposition figure Wine in hiding after threats from army chief

2026-01-23

Bobi Wine, Uganda's most prominent opposition candidate, is in hiding and fearing for his safety after threats from the country's army chief prompted his international attorney to call for protection Friday. The threats follow Wine's rejection of official election results showing he lost to President Yoweri Museveni with 24.7% of the vote to Museveni's 71.6%.

Envoys advance U.S. plan to end Russia's war in Ukraine

2026-01-23

Russian, Ukrainian, and U.S. negotiators held talks in Abu Dhabi on January 23, marking the first known instance of Trump administration officials meeting with both countries simultaneously to discuss ending the war. The meeting signals momentum in an intensive diplomatic campaign that has accelerated since November 2025, with U.S. envoys coordinating parallel negotiations aimed at reaching a framework for settlement.

Trump envoys meet with Ukraine and Russia in Abu Dhabi for peace talks

2026-01-23

Trump administration envoys held separate negotiations with Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Abu Dhabi on Friday and Saturday, marking the first known time officials from the Trump administration simultaneously engaged with negotiators from both sides of the conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the future of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region would be a key focus of the talks. Hours earlier, Zelenskyy met with President Donald Trump in Davos, Switzerland, and described the meeting as productive and meaningful.

Trump's NATO remarks spark UK fury over Afghan sacrifice

2026-01-23

President Donald Trump's assertion that non-U.S. NATO troops "stayed a little back" from the front lines in Afghanistan and may not support the United States if called upon has provoked sharp rebukes in the United Kingdom, where British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the comments "insulting" and "frankly appalling." Trump made the remarks Thursday in Davos, Switzerland, during an interview with Fox Business Network.

Insurance battles linger after California wildfires; lawmakers seek reforms

2026-01-23

California lawmakers are proposing a package of consumer-protection and insurer-timing rules for wildfire claims after survivors described problems ranging from delayed communication to payouts that fall short of rebuilding costs. The bills include requirements to notify policyholders when adjusters are assigned and to speed up payments, as well as larger penalties for insurers that violate fair-claims practices during declared emergencies.

988 removes LGBTQ+ services, straining Texas crisis centers

2026-01-23

The Trump administration's decision to remove specialized LGBTQ+ services from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is straining crisis centers in Texas, which are already operating at a $7 million funding deficit. The "Press 3 option" that connected callers to trained counselors with lived LGBTQ+ experience was eliminated in 2025, the administration said, because the specialized subnetwork exceeded its initial $33 million pilot budget.

ICE memo authorizes forced entry to homes without judicial warrants

2026-01-23

An internal Immigration and Customs Enforcement memo obtained by the Associated Press authorizes immigration officers to forcibly enter people's homes using administrative warrants, marking a shift from decades of Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches. The memo, disclosed as immigration arrests soar under President Trump's mass deportation campaign, permits officers to enter private homes without warrants signed by judges — a practice long prohibited by constitutional law.

Activist releases arrest video contradicting White House's doctored image

2026-01-23

Civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong released video of her arrest Friday, contradicting a manipulated image the White House posted on X the previous day. The White House image showed Armstrong crying with her hands behind her back, with a caption identifying her as an 'Arrested far-left agitator' who had 'orchestrated church riots in Minnesota.' Armstrong's unedited seven-minute video, shot by her husband, presents a starkly different account of her Thursday arrest during an anti-immigration enforcement protest at a Minneapolis church.

California sues Trump administration over pipeline restart

2026-01-23

California sued the Trump administration on Friday for approving Houston-based Sable Offshore Corp.'s plans to restart two oil pipelines along the state's coast, escalating a dispute over federal authority to override state regulation of facilities in California's jurisdictional waters. Democratic Attorney General Rob Bonta said the federal administration "has no right to usurp California's regulatory authority." The Trump administration, through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, defended the approval, saying it would bring "much needed American energy to a state with the highest gas prices in the country."

Maine governor and senator clash over ICE enforcement surge

2026-01-23

Maine's Democratic governor and Republican senator offered divergent responses Friday to an immigration sweep that has detained dozens of people across the state this week. Gov. Janet Mills demanded that federal immigration officials provide judicial warrants and real-time arrest data, while Sen. Susan Collins said the protests being organized should avoid interfering with law enforcement operations. The divergence reflects the high-stakes nature of the race between them — Mills is challenging Collins' Senate seat — as well as fundamental disagreement over how immigration enforcement should operate. Mills, termed out as governor, must first win a Democratic primary against oyster farmer Graham Platner, whose campaign is endorsed by Sen. Bernie Sanders.

Florida lawmakers denounce AG opinion on minority contracting, race

2026-01-23

Florida Democratic lawmakers and members of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus denounced a legal opinion by Republican Attorney General James Uthmeier on Thursday, saying it could weaken state laws that support minority contracting and diverse appointments. The dispute centers on Uthmeier’s opinion issued Monday questioning the constitutionality of dozens of Florida laws, including programs that promote opportunities for Black residents and Black-owned businesses.

Jack Smith testifies Trump caused Jan. 6 and committed serious crimes

2026-01-23

Former special counsel Jack Smith testified Thursday that President Donald Trump caused the Jan. 6 Capitol attack and engaged in a criminal scheme to overturn the 2020 election results, according to his five-hour appearance before the House Judiciary Committee. Smith said Trump "sought to prey" on his supporters and "looked for ways to stay in power," culminating in the assault on the Capitol. "Our investigation revealed that Donald Trump is the person who caused Jan. 6, it was foreseeable to him, and that he sought to exploit the violence," Smith testified.

TikTok finalizes U.S. entity deal with Oracle, avoiding ban threat

2026-01-23

TikTok finalized a deal on January 23 to form a new American entity with major investors including Oracle, Silver Lake and the Emirati firm MGX, clearing away the threat of a ban that had loomed for years over the platform used by more than 200 million Americans. The new structure preserves user access while establishing safeguards over data protection, algorithm security, content moderation and software integrity.

TikTok finalizes U.S. deal to keep operating under new ownership

2026-01-23

TikTok has finalized a deal to keep operating in the United States under new ownership led by Oracle, Silver Lake, and the Emirati investment firm MGX. The arrangement, announced January 23, resolves years of uncertainty about the platform's future following a 2024 law requiring ByteDance, TikTok's China-based parent company, to divest its stake or face a ban. President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January 2025 that extended TikTok's operating deadline while his administration negotiated the terms.

Federal judge dismisses DOJ voter data lawsuit filed in wrong city

2026-01-23

A federal judge in Georgia dismissed a U.S. Justice Department lawsuit seeking voter information from the state Friday, ruling the government had sued in the wrong judicial district. U.S. District Judge Ashley Royal found the Justice Department should have sued Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger in Atlanta rather than Macon, where the secretary of state maintains an office. The dismissal was issued without prejudice, meaning the Justice Department can refile the lawsuit. The dispute marks the latest setback for the Trump administration's effort to collect detailed voter data from states.

Justice Department calls Smith report 'illicit' and seeks permanent seal

2026-01-23

The Justice Department moved Friday to permanently seal a classified-documents report produced by former Special Counsel Jack Smith, calling it the "illicit product of an unlawful investigation and prosecution" that belongs in the "dustbin of history." The filing escalates a legal battle over whether Smith's report on his investigation into President Donald Trump's handling of sensitive documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate should be made public.

Petro, Trump to meet Feb. 3 after months of tensions

2026-01-23

Colombian President Gustavo Petro said Friday he was optimistic about a White House meeting with President Trump scheduled for Feb. 3, marking a significant diplomatic shift after months of hostility. The optimism comes after the United States revoked Petro's visa and imposed sanctions on him and his family in September over what he characterized as unproven drug-trafficking allegations.

Philadelphia sues to block removal of slavery exhibit from Independence Park

2026-01-23

Philadelphia sued the Trump administration Thursday to reverse the removal of an exhibit documenting slavery at Independence National Historical Park, challenging an executive order directing federal agencies to review historical interpretations for "accuracy, honesty, and alignment with shared national values." The National Park Service removed the display detailing nine enslaved people who lived at the President's House when George and Martha Washington occupied the residence during Philadelphia's tenure as the nation's capital.

Black man executed in 1956 declared innocent, nearly 70 years later

2026-01-23

Nearly 70 years after his execution, Tommy Lee Walker was declared innocent on Wednesday by Dallas County officials in a case that prosecutors now say was riddled with racial bias, false evidence, and coercive interrogation by a police officer who was a member of the Ku Klux Klan. Walker, a Black man, was executed in May 1956 for the rape and murder of Venice Parker, a 31-year-old store clerk killed on Sept. 30, 1953. Dallas County commissioners unanimously passed a resolution declaring his conviction and execution a "profound miscarriage of justice."

Education Department says Native American mascot ban violates civil rights law

2026-01-23

The U.S. Department of Education said Thursday that New York state's ban on Native American school mascots violates federal civil rights law, arguing the regulation applies different standards to different ethnic groups. The federal finding centers on the Long Island school district of Connetquot, which changed its team name from the "Thunderbirds" to the "T-Birds" to comply with state regulations banning the use of Native American mascots and team names in public schools.

Judge shields pro-Palestinian academics from immigration retaliation

2026-01-23

A federal judge in Boston ruled Thursday that academics targeted for deportation over their pro-Palestinian activism can seek legal protection if the Trump administration retaliates against them for participating in a lawsuit challenging the government's enforcement policy. U.S. District Judge William Young, appointed by President Ronald Reagan, said noncitizen members of two academic associations can challenge any changes to their immigration status made in reprisal for their free-speech activities.

Auditor identifies Montana health care fraud scheme targeting Native Americans

2026-01-23

Montana State Auditor James Brown announced Tuesday that his office identified a health care fraud scheme targeting Native Americans on state reservations. At least 80 Native Americans were victimized in the scam, which exploited systemic gaps in federal health insurance enrollment and billing procedures. Brown's office said it clawed back more than $23.3 million from fraudulent insurance claims and identified 207 potentially fraudulent enrollments representing an estimated $54.7 million in unjustified billing.

Mississippi bills would establish repeat domestic abuser registry

2026-01-23

Mississippi lawmakers are considering legislation that would create a public registry for people convicted of multiple domestic violence offenses, a measure aimed at alerting potential victims to their abusers' histories. The bills are supported by domestic violence advocates and a survivor whose experience prompted the effort.

Meta pauses teens' access to AI characters

2026-01-23

Meta Platforms announced Friday it is halting teens' access to artificial intelligence characters on Instagram and WhatsApp, according to a blog post from the company. The pause, set to begin in coming weeks, applies to anyone who gave Meta a birthday indicating they are a minor, as well as people the company suspects are teenagers based on its age-prediction technology. The move comes as Meta, along with YouTube and TikTok, prepares to face trial in Los Angeles over allegations that their platforms cause harm to children.

Medical examiner rules Texas ICE detainee death a homicide

2026-01-23

A county medical examiner ruled the death of a Cuban immigrant in Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody a homicide on Jan. 22, after the man attempted suicide and was restrained by guards at a detention center in El Paso, Texas. Geraldo Lunas Campos, 55, died Jan. 3 at Camp East Montana, a detention facility built on an Army base to house thousands of immigrants. The examiner determined he died from asphyxia caused by compression to his neck and torso. The homicide ruling came after a 911 call obtained by The Associated Press revealed that a private security contractor at the facility called for emergency help during the struggle. A witness who observed the incident described at least five guards holding Campos down, with one applying pressure around his neck until he lost consciousness.

California seeks to expedite $10 billion climate spending plan

2026-01-23

Assemblymember David Alvarez, a Democrat from Chula Vista, introduced legislation Thursday to accelerate $10 billion in climate spending California voters approved through Proposition 4. Assembly Bill 35 would exempt the bond funding from review under the Administrative Procedure Act, a regulatory process that has caused lengthy delays in implementing voter-approved infrastructure projects.

Family sues nonprofits over bulldozer death in Atlanta homeless encampment

2026-01-23

The family of Cornelius Taylor, a 46-year-old man who died when a bulldozer crushed his tent in an Atlanta encampment, filed a lawsuit Friday against two nonprofits it says are partly responsible for his death. The lawsuit names Partners for HOME and SafeHouse Outreach, alleging their employees failed to check whether Taylor was in his tent before the bulldozer was deployed during a January 2025 encampment sweep near Ebenezer Baptist Church. The city had requested the clearance ahead of celebrations for the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.

New York sues Dr. Phil's son over breach in NYPD documentary deal

2026-01-23

New York City sued Jordan McGraw and his production company this week for breach of contract over an unfinished documentary series about the New York Police Department, obtaining a court order that blocks them from releasing or selling footage from the show, tentatively titled "Behind the Badge."

Thousands protest immigration enforcement; 100 clergy arrested in Minnesota

2026-01-23

About 100 clergy members were arrested Friday at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, and thousands of people gathered in downtown Minneapolis despite temperatures of minus 9 degrees Fahrenheit to protest the Trump administration's immigration enforcement operations. The clergy were arrested after exceeding the reach of their permit and disrupting airline operations, according to the Metropolitan Airports Commission. The demonstrations drew labor unions, progressive organizations, and faith leaders calling for an end to what the Department of Homeland Security described as its "largest-ever immigration enforcement operation."

Michigan churches lead affordable housing push amid state shortage

2026-01-23

Pastor Monique French and her congregation at Washington Heights United Methodist Church in Battle Creek are raising money to build 17 affordable homes in one of the Cereal City's poorest neighborhoods, joining a growing number of faith-based organizations across the country stepping into affordable housing development. Churches in Traverse City, Charlevoix, Grand Rapids, Detroit and elsewhere across Michigan have accelerated their homebuilding efforts as the state confronts a shortage of roughly 119,000 homes—a gap that economists say stifles growth by limiting personal wealth and exacerbates worker scarcity.

EEOC to rescind 2024 harassment guidance, citing Trump executive orders

2026-01-23

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission voted to rescind its 2024 workplace harassment guidance on Thursday, a move framed by the agency’s Republican majority as aligning civil-rights enforcement with President Donald Trump’s executive orders. Chair Andrea Lucas said the decision would not leave a void and cited examples of harassment cases. Commissioner Brittany Panuccio said private-sector resources would fill any gaps.

FAA to make D.C. plane-crash helicopter rules permanent

2026-01-23

The Federal Aviation Administration said Thursday it is making permanent the temporary safety rules adopted after an airliner collided with an Army helicopter near Reagan National Airport. The changes include requiring military aircraft to broadcast their locations and barring air traffic controllers from relying on visual separation in the shared airspace around the airport.

U.S. warns of action if Haiti transitional council backs destabilizing changes

2026-01-23

The U.S. warned Haiti’s transitional presidential council against making changes that could destabilize the country’s government, saying it would consider taking “appropriate measures” if such steps back initiatives favoring gangs. The warning came as pressure grew for the council—an unelected body overseeing the transition—to move toward elections ahead of a Feb. 7 deadline.

Global warming continues despite severe cold, scientists say

2026-01-23

As a severe winter storm brought record cold to much of the United States, President Donald Trump questioned whether global warming is real. In a post on his Truth Social account Friday, Trump asked "WHATEVER HAPPENED TO GLOBAL WARMING???" and called the expected temperatures "rarely seen." More than a dozen scientists told The Associated Press the president misunderstands the difference between local weather and long-term climate change. Global warming has continued and is accelerating, they said, even as winter and cold still occur in a warming world.

EU signals readiness to implement Mercosur trade deal despite parliament delay

2026-01-23

The European Union's executive Commission signaled Friday that it is ready to implement a sweeping free trade agreement with the Mercosur group of South American countries on a provisional basis, bypassing a parliamentary vote this week to delay the deal for legal review. Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission President, said the EU would move ahead as soon as at least one Mercosur country ratifies the agreement. "There is a clear interest that we ensure that the benefits of this agreement apply as soon as possible," she said at the conclusion of a Brussels summit of EU leaders. "In short, we will be ready when they are ready."

Trump's Greenland demands prompt European allies to seek independent strategies

2026-01-22

President Trump's threat to take over Greenland and his harsh criticism of longtime NATO partners have triggered a dramatic reassessment of U.S. credibility in Europe, with allied leaders publicly questioning whether America can be relied upon for consistent support. Though Trump has since announced a "framework of a future deal" on Arctic security, European nations are already charting diplomatic courses that do not depend on the United States.

Trump administration compiles data on federal funds sent to Democratic states

2026-01-22

President Donald Trump's budget office this week ordered most federal agencies to compile data on the federal money sent to 14 mostly Democratic-controlled states and the District of Columbia. According to a memo obtained by The Associated Press, the administration described the effort as a tool to "reduce the improper and fraudulent use of those funds." The order comes one week after Trump said he intended to cut off federal funding to states harboring "sanctuary cities" that resist his immigration policies, with the threatened action to begin Feb. 1. Trump has not disclosed implementation details.

Autopsy rules immigrant's death in ICE custody a homicide

2026-01-22

An autopsy has ruled the January 3 death of Geraldo Lunas Campos a homicide, according to the El Paso County Medical Examiner's Office. The 55-year-old Cuban immigrant, held in solitary confinement at Camp East Montana near El Paso, died from asphyxia caused by neck and torso compression during an altercation with guards. A witness told The Associated Press that Lunas Campos was handcuffed as at least five guards held him down, with one guard applying pressure around his neck until he lost consciousness. The medical examiner's report documented abrasions on his chest and knees, hemorrhages on his neck, and petechial hemorrhages in his eyelids — tiny blood spots consistent with asphyxia from pressure on the body.

Civil rights attorney arrested in Minnesota church ICE protest

2026-01-22

Civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong and at least two other people were arrested Thursday in connection with a protest that disrupted a Sunday service at Cities Church in St. Paul, where an Immigration and Customs Enforcement official serves as a pastor, according to Trump administration officials. The arrests came as a federal magistrate judge rejected charges against journalist Don Lemon related to the same event. Vice President JD Vance, speaking in Minneapolis, urged state and local law enforcement to collaborate with federal immigration officials.

Smith defends Trump investigation at House hearing

2026-01-22

Former special counsel Jack Smith testified Thursday before the House Judiciary Committee to defend his investigations into President Donald Trump, insisting he had acted without political motive. "No one should be above the law in our country, and the law required that he be held to account," Smith said of Trump. The hourslong hearing split immediately along partisan lines, with Republican lawmakers seeking to undermine Smith while Democrats sought to elicit evidence of Trump's conduct.

Wisconsin Legislature meets in darkness amid WisconsinEye shutdown

2026-01-22

WisconsinEye, the nonprofit network that broadcasts and archives Wisconsin legislative proceedings, went dark in mid-December after running short of funds, leaving lawmakers meeting without the usual public video access. The shutdown has drawn complaints from open-government advocates and is prompting lawmakers to negotiate a plan to revive the network.

House passes $1.2T spending bills as Democrats oppose ICE funding

2026-01-22

The House passed approximately $1.2 trillion in spending bills in January 2026, narrowly approving Homeland Security funding on a 220-207 vote as Democratic leaders objected to provisions that would fund President Trump's mass deportation efforts. The broader spending package passed 341-88, funding a 3.8% military pay raise while keeping non-defense spending at current levels.

One Year In, Trump Has Pursued Broad Policy Agenda With Mixed Results

2026-01-22

President Donald Trump has spent his first year of a second term implementing a wide-ranging policy agenda spanning government restructuring, immigration enforcement, and military interventions abroad, according to an assessment by Associated Press White House and Washington correspondents. The administration has achieved significant policy implementation of campaign priorities, though public approval remains mixed across most major policy areas.

House Republicans hold line in Venezuela war powers vote

2026-01-22

The House rejected a Democratic-backed resolution Thursday that would have prevented President Donald Trump from sending military forces to Venezuela, with the vote ending in a tie—short of the majority needed for passage. Republican leaders held the vote open for more than 20 minutes while Rep. Wesley Hunt rushed back from a Texas campaign trip to cast the decisive vote against the measure. The narrow outcome reflects growing tensions in the GOP-controlled Congress over Trump's aggressive foreign policy in the Western Hemisphere.

Kemp suspends Georgia lawmaker over unemployment fraud charges

2026-01-22

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp suspended state Rep. Sharon Henderson from office Thursday following her indictment on federal unemployment fraud charges. A state review commission found that the charges against the Democratic legislator hurt her ability to perform her duties, and Kemp accepted that determination.

U.S. stocks rise as Trump backs off Greenland tariff threat

2026-01-22

President Donald Trump's reversal on threatened tariffs sent U.S. stocks higher for a second consecutive day Thursday, building on Wednesday's gains. Trump said he reached 'the framework of a future deal' on Greenland with the head of NATO and withdrew 10% tariffs he had threatened on European countries. The S&P 500 gained 0.5%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.6%, and the Nasdaq composite advanced 0.9%.

Poll: About half of AAPI adults name inflation top priority as government confidence drops

2026-01-22

About half of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander adults said they want the government to prioritize the high cost of living and inflation — a share roughly 15 percentage points higher than for U.S. adults overall — according to a poll released Thursday by AAPI Data and the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. The survey of 1,029 AAPI adults, conducted in early December, also found that cost anxiety within this community has grown since the previous year.

House panel advances contempt resolutions against Clintons in Epstein probe

2026-01-22

A House Oversight Committee advanced Wednesday resolutions to hold former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in contempt of Congress over subpoenas in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, a step that could lead to votes on the House floor. The committee’s chairman, Rep. James Comer, said no witness should willfully defy a congressional subpoena without consequences.

Divisions emerge over Trump’s Board of Peace as allies decline

2026-01-22

Divisions emerged Wednesday over U.S. President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace as its ambitions grew beyond Gaza, with some Western European countries declining to join, some staying noncommittal and a group of Muslim-majority countries agreeing to sign on. Trump said countries invited to join are expected to proceed this week as he seeks to formalize the board on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos, Switzerland.

US Treasury sanctions Costa Rican drug network for trafficking cocaine

2026-01-22

The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions Thursday on five Costa Ricans and five Costa Rican entities for allegedly helping to transport tons of cocaine from Colombia, storing the drugs in Costa Rica, and shipping them to the United States and Europe. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in announcing the action that "the entire drug trafficking supply chain — from shipping facilitators to money launderers — bears responsibility for American addictions and deaths."

Divisiones por la Junta de Paz de Trump para Gaza; Noruega y Suecia no se suman

2026-01-22

El presidente estadounidense Donald Trump está ampliando el alcance de una “Junta de Paz” para Gaza, mientras varios países europeos y otros actores expresan dudas o se niegan a participar, según reportes divulgados esta semana. En Jerusalén, el desarrollo marcó un contraste con Israel, que dijo que se unirá, y con el papel de figuras de alto perfil anunciadas por la Casa Blanca.

Iran posts death toll of 3,117 after protests; Araghchi warns U.S.

2026-01-22

Iran’s government reported a death toll of 3,117 from nationwide protests that began Dec. 28, an official tally that is far lower than figures cited by an overseas human rights group. The announcement came after the Interior Ministry and the Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs, with statements carried by Iranian state television on Wednesday.

Nevada voters to decide 31% of District Court judges in 2026

2026-01-22

Nevada voters will decide in November on 31% of the state’s District Court judges, after the other two-thirds were retained without opposition, according to filing results from this week’s candidate deadline. The filing period closed Friday, with candidates filing statewide for judicial seats across District Court, two Nevada Supreme Court seats, and several justices of the peace and municipal judgeships.

Russia watches Trump's Greenland move as NATO fracture and Arctic threat

2026-01-22

As President Donald Trump pushed this week to acquire Greenland, Russian officials and state media responded with a mixture of satisfaction over potential Western divisions and concern about U.S. military expansion in the Arctic. President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday the Greenland situation "doesn't concern us at all," adding he expected the West to "figure it out among themselves." Behind Russia's diplomatic calm lay strategic calculations: the transatlantic rift could weaken Western unity while threatening Russia's Arctic interests.

FAA makes permanent safety rules from D.C. plane crash

2026-01-22

The Federal Aviation Administration announced Thursday that it will make permanent the safety rules imposed after a January 2025 collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet near Reagan National Airport that killed 67 people. The rules, effective Friday, require military aircraft to broadcast their locations and prohibit air traffic controllers from relying on visual separation near the airport.

California lawmakers propose insurance regulations after wildfire claims crisis

2026-01-22

California lawmakers are proposing multiple bills to tighten insurance regulations following year-long complaints from wildfire survivors about delayed claims, inadequate coverage, and poor insurer communication. The legislation, introduced by Democratic state senators and the state's Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, would require insurers to provide faster notifications, increased coverage limits, and greater transparency in handling disaster claims.

Fifth Circuit examines Trump's use of 1798 law against gang members

2026-01-22

A federal appeals court heard arguments Thursday on whether President Donald Trump can invoke a law written in 1798 to deport members of a Venezuelan criminal gang. All 17 judges of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans examined whether the Alien Enemies Act — a wartime statute never before used against a criminal organization — applies to Tren de Aragua.

Trump administration halts NIH funding for fetal tissue research

2026-01-22

The Trump administration announced Thursday that the National Institutes of Health will no longer fund research using human fetal tissue derived from abortions. The policy, long sought by anti-abortion groups, expands restrictions the administration imposed during its first term. Under the new rules, all NIH-funded research will be barred from using fetal tissue, though research using cell lines previously created from fetal cells will continue.

Trump administration expands foreign aid ban to DEI and gender identity

2026-01-22

The Trump administration is expanding its ban on U.S. foreign aid to organizations promoting gender identity and diversity, equity and inclusion programs. The State Department will release final rules on Friday that broaden the existing "Mexico City" policy, which has restricted assistance to international groups providing abortion-related services. The expansion applies to more than $30 billion in annual foreign aid.

Venezuela advances oil reform allowing private company investment

2026-01-22

Venezuela's legislature gave initial approval Thursday to a bill that would loosen decades of state control over the country's vast oil sector, opening the door to private companies operating fields independently and settling disputes in international courts. The bill represents the first major overhaul of the oil industry since late socialist leader Hugo Chávez nationalized portions of it in 2007. The measure follows intense pressure from the Trump administration, which has pushed the government of acting President Delcy Rodríguez to invite greater investment from U.S. energy companies in Venezuela's flagging oil industry.

White House shares altered image of attorney arrest

2026-01-22

The White House shared a manipulated photograph of civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong during her arrest at a Minnesota church, according to an Associated Press fact-check. The altered image showed her in tears; the original photograph, posted by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, showed her with a neutral expression. Levy Armstrong was arrested for her role in an anti-immigration enforcement protest that disrupted a service at the church.

Trump administration cancels solar projects in Puerto Rico as grid falters

2026-01-22

The Trump administration has canceled multimillion-dollar solar projects in Puerto Rico aimed at helping low-income families as the island grapples with chronic power outages and a deteriorating electrical grid. The U.S. Energy Department said the grid cannot reliably accommodate more distributed solar power, a justification that industry officials sharply disputed.

Democrats scramble on immigration after Minnesota ICE confrontation turns deadly

2026-01-22

A federal agent fatally shot Renee Good, 37, during an immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota earlier this month, forcing Democrats into an immediate political crisis as the party scrambles to devise a unified response to the Trump administration's aggressive crackdown on immigration. The killing has upended Democratic midterm strategy. The party had planned to campaign on affordability and health care—two issues where President Trump faces voter dissatisfaction—but the violent scenes from Minnesota have intensified pressure on Democrats to take immediate action on immigration enforcement practices.

Georgia lieutenant governor revives 2020 election dispute in GOP primary race

2026-01-22

Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones attacked his Republican primary opponent Thursday, using disputed claims about a 2020 Fulton County election issue in connection with his refusal to comply with a federal voter-data request. State senators at an Ethics Committee meeting criticized Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger for not providing detailed voter information that the U.S. Department of Justice has demanded, but Jones emphasized an incorrect claim that 315,000 ballots were wrongly certified.

Nevada lieutenant governor faces ethics complaint over book promotion

2026-01-22

Nevada Lt. Gov. Stavros Anthony faces an ethics complaint alleging he used his office's social media account to promote his book for personal financial gain, in violation of state law. The complaint, filed by political consultant Lindsey Harmon, a former Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Votes, contends the conduct may constitute both an ethics violation and a category E felony under Nevada state law.

Florida AG's challenge to minority laws draws Black lawmakers' rebuke

2026-01-22

Florida's attorney general released an opinion Monday questioning the constitutionality of roughly 80 state laws that support minority contracting and promote diverse hiring, drawing swift condemnation from Black lawmakers Thursday. James Uthmeier claimed the laws violated the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment because "they mandate discrimination based on race," and said he would no longer enforce what he called their "discriminatory" provisions. The timing—on Martin Luther King Jr. Day—drew particular criticism from Democratic legislators, who characterized the move as a political stunt and a threat to decades of civil rights protections.

Missouri House reprimands lawmaker for sexually vulgar text to colleague

2026-01-22

The Missouri House of Representatives voted Thursday to reprimand Democratic state Rep. Jeremy Dean for sending a sexually vulgar text message to Republican colleague Cecelie Williams during a September redistricting protest. The penalties include barring him from House committees, requiring him to stay at least 50 feet away from Williams, and undergoing additional sexual harassment training.

Maine governor demands warrants as ICE immigration sweeps spread fear

2026-01-22

Maine's Democratic governor challenged federal immigration officials Thursday to provide warrants and arrest information from a sweeping enforcement operation in her state, saying residents have been left largely in the dark as fear spreads through immigrant communities. Gov. Janet Mills said President Donald Trump's office has not returned her calls regarding the operation.

Brazilians react to US suspension of immigrant visa processing

2026-01-22

Brazilians who had been trying to move to the United States said they were frustrated after the U.S. suspended processing of immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries, including Brazil. The suspension took effect on Wednesday, according to the U.S. State Department, leaving would-be applicants waiting while the government reviews entry standards.

US completes withdrawal from World Health Organization

2026-01-22

The United States has finalized its withdrawal from the World Health Organization, ending America's 78-year commitment to the global health agency one year after President Donald Trump announced the decision, federal officials said Thursday. The U.S. owes about $280 million to the organization, and the administration acknowledged it has not yet worked out how the country will access critical data from other countries that could provide early warning of new pandemics.

Paramount extends hostile $77.9B offer for Warner Bros. Discovery

2026-01-22

Paramount Global, controlled by Skydance Media, extended the deadline for Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders to tender stock until Feb. 20, maintaining its hostile offer of $30 per share in cash. The move marks the second extension since Paramount challenged Warner's agreed merger with Netflix in December.

Workplace rights agency scraps anti-harassment guidance, citing Trump's orders

2026-01-22

The federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission voted Thursday to rescind a 190-page workplace anti-harassment guidance document, marking a significant shift in federal civil rights enforcement under President Donald Trump's second administration. The Republican-controlled agency's vote, led by Chair Andrea Lucas and Commissioner Brittany Panuccio, was justified by Trump's executive order declaring there are "two immutable sexes, male and female." The guidance had been designed to help employers comply with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and included specific protections for transgender workers. Commissioner Kalpana Kotagal, the commission's lone Democrat, voted against the rescission.

Rhode Island weighs ending Mr. Potato Head license plate as Hasbro exits

2026-01-22

Rhode Island lawmakers are weighing whether to discontinue the Mr. Potato Head specialty license plate, a fixture of the state's motor vehicles offerings since 2002, after toy maker Hasbro announced plans to relocate its headquarters to Boston. Rep. Brian Newberry, a Republican from North Smithfield, introduced legislation this month to end the program as Hasbro prepares to leave Pawtucket, where the company has operated for nearly 70 years.

Texas leads nation in supplying new residents to nine states

2026-01-22

Texas supplied the most new residents to nine other states in 2024 despite experiencing the largest population growth this decade, according to Census Bureau migration data released this week. The findings reveal that Texas, with 31 million residents and a net gain of 2.1 million people between 2020 and 2024, is simultaneously losing residents to a wide geographic swath of the country including Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and Oklahoma.

FDA leans toward approving Zyn reduced-risk marketing claims

2026-01-22

The Food and Drug Administration is moving toward approving Philip Morris International's request to market Zyn nicotine pouches as a less-harmful alternative to cigarettes, according to government documents reviewed at a public FDA meeting Thursday. The agency is considering whether to allow health claims about Zyn's reduced risk of mouth cancer, heart disease, lung cancer and stroke. But a panel of independent experts raised pointed questions about whether the company's research demonstrates that marketing claims would actually persuade smokers to switch, and whether the promotion could inadvertently appeal to teenagers. "There are very few things that are legally available and worse for you than cigarettes," said Lisa Postow, a panel member and scientist at the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. "It's a pretty low bar to be safer than cigarettes."

Missouri rejects NCAA request to ban college athlete prop bets

2026-01-22

Missouri's gaming commission rejected an NCAA request Thursday to restrict bets on individual college athlete performance, saying the state needs more data about how its newly approved sports betting market operates. The rejection came about one week after federal authorities indicted more than two dozen people in what the NCAA describes as a college basketball gambling scheme involving payments to athletes to rig games.

Virginia AG Jones withdraws from agreement backing DOJ challenge to Dream Act

2026-01-22

Virginia's newly inaugurated Attorney General Jay Jones filed a motion Wednesday to withdraw from an agreement his predecessor made with the U.S. Department of Justice to invalidate the state's Dream Act, which allows undocumented immigrants to receive in-state tuition rates at Virginia colleges and universities. Jones took office this month as a Democrat, replacing Republican Jason Miyares, who had joined the federal government's legal challenge to the 2020 law.

Google rolls out AI feature to access Gmail, Photos for personalized search

2026-01-22

Google on Thursday is rolling out a new artificial intelligence feature called "Personal Intelligence" that will let search users tap their Gmail messages and Google Photos libraries to receive personalized recommendations tailored to their habits, interests, and travel history. The tool, available first in the U.S. to Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers as well as users in the company's experimental Labs division, marks Google's latest effort to integrate artificial intelligence across its digital services. The rollout intensifies Google's competition with newer AI-powered answer engines from startups including ChatGPT and Perplexity.

Vance blames local officials for Minneapolis immigration unrest

2026-01-22

Vice President JD Vance visited Minneapolis on Thursday to address mounting tensions over the Trump administration's immigration enforcement campaign, blaming "far-left people" and state and local officials for the chaos that has unfolded. Vance said Minnesota leaders should "meet us halfway" and insisted he was working to lower tensions, even as his visit coincided with a planned day of statewide protests by faith leaders, labor unions, and hundreds of businesses. The visit came weeks into an aggressive federal immigration enforcement operation that has drawn sharp rebukes from Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Gov. Tim Walz, who have accused federal agents of racial profiling and terrorizing immigrant communities.

Omaha mayors pardon 60 residents; Lincoln 2, reflecting different philosophies

2026-01-22

From January 2020 through November 2025, Omaha has granted mayoral pardons to more than 60 residents convicted of municipal violations. Lincoln has pardoned two. The disparity reflects fundamentally different thresholds and philosophies in how Nebraska's two largest cities offer formal forgiveness for past mistakes and a path forward for residents whose criminal histories have limited employment and housing opportunities.

Guinea-Bissau suspends hepatitis B vaccine study for ethics review

2026-01-22

Guinea-Bissau is suspending a Trump administration-backed hepatitis B vaccine study on newborns, pending an ethical review, Health Minister Quinhi Nantot announced Thursday. The decision comes amid concerns that the research was designed to withhold a protective vaccine from some infants, raising fundamental questions about research ethics in developing nations.

Complaint alleges Washington legislator misused campaign funds

2026-01-22

Washington state Rep. Tarra Simmons faces an ethics complaint alleging she improperly used $30,000 in surplus campaign funds by directing donations to a Nevada-based nonprofit with no active platform and no federal filings since 2021. The complaint, filed Jan. 12 with the Washington Public Disclosure Commission, links the nonprofit to Jovan Jackson, another first-time formerly incarcerated legislator now serving in the Nevada Legislature.

Homicides drop 21% across 35 U.S. cities in 2025, report shows

2026-01-22

Homicide rates in 35 American cities declined 21% from 2024 to 2025, translating to approximately 922 fewer deaths, according to a new report from the Council on Criminal Justice released Thursday. The nonpartisan criminal-justice think tank also found drops in 11 of 13 crime categories tracked, though drug crimes increased modestly and sexual assaults remained flat.

Webb County sheriff indicted in pandemic fraud scheme

2026-01-22

Webb County Sheriff Martin Cuellar Jr. was indicted Thursday on five felony fraud charges for allegedly operating a private disinfecting business using county resources during the COVID-19 pandemic. The indictment comes four days after President Trump pardoned his brother, Democratic U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, in a separate federal bribery case. The sheriff appeared in federal court in Texas and was released on bond. He has pleaded not guilty.

US warns Haiti council against destabilizing moves before Feb. 7

2026-01-22

The United States warned Haiti's transitional council against making changes that would destabilize the government, threatening to take action against those who support such moves. The warning came as the unelected council faces pressure to move toward elections for the first time in a decade, with its mandate scheduled to end Feb. 7.

Berkeley City Council allows ADU sales as condos to broaden homeownership options

2026-01-22

Berkeley's City Council voted 6-1 Tuesday night to allow homeowners to sell backyard cottages and basement apartments as condominiums, opening a new path to ownership in a city where the median single-family home price hovers around $1.4 million, according to Berkeleyside reporting distributed by the Associated Press.

Hawaii AG to investigate $35,000 bribery case after federal evidence shared

2026-01-22

Hawaiʻi Attorney General Anne Lopez said Tuesday she will investigate a 2022 bribery case involving a Hawaiʻi lawmaker recorded accepting $35,000 in a paper bag. The announcement follows a federal decision announced last week to share evidence with state officials. The investigation will be handled by the attorney general’s special investigation and prosecution division.

Kennedy Center cancellations grow as Bruce Lee play called off

2026-01-22

The producers of a stage play inspired by Bruce Lee and the musical presenter Vocal Arts DC have canceled performances at the Kennedy Center, according to announcements this week from each group. The cancellations follow a shift in leadership at the Washington institution after President Donald Trump moved to oust the center’s top officials and after a board announcement that the Kennedy Center would be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center.

Lamont halts CT’s new farmland valuations after farmer pressure

2026-01-22

Gov. Ned Lamont directed Connecticut officials to pause new state valuations for agricultural land, citing “unforeseen lack of data” and concerns that the changes could drive steep tax increases. The decision keeps in place recommended land values last updated in 2020 as municipal assessors head toward a Jan. 31 deadline to finalize grand lists.

Minneapolis businesses face disruptions amid federal immigration enforcement

2026-01-22

Minneapolis businesses say a surge in federal immigration enforcement has disrupted staffing, consumer traffic and hotel reservations, as protests roil parts of the Twin Cities. The effects are showing up amid plans for a general strike Friday to demand an end to Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions, according to organizers. The economic fallout comes as Minnesota and the Twin Cities seek court relief to halt the operations.

Planned Parenthood to resume vasectomies in Michigan amid abortion access changes

2026-01-22

Planned Parenthood of Michigan said it will begin offering vasectomies for patients in Grand Rapids, as abortion access has narrowed nationwide after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. The nonprofit plans to provide the minor procedure for adults 21 and older at its Irwin/Martin health center, with additional locations expected to come online during the year.

Washington Post seeks return of reporter's seized devices

2026-01-22

The Washington Post asked a federal court Wednesday for an order requiring the government to return electronic devices seized from reporter Hannah Natanson's Virginia home. A magistrate judge in Alexandria temporarily blocked the government from reviewing material from the seized devices and scheduled a February 6 hearing on the newspaper's request. The seizure was part of an investigation into a Pentagon contractor accused of handling classified documents.

Appeals court suspends tear gas ban in Minnesota immigration enforcement

2026-01-22

A federal appeals court suspended a ruling that prohibited federal officers from using tear gas and pepper spray against protesters in Minnesota on Wednesday, clearing the way for more aggressive enforcement tactics. The decision came as immigration agents expanded operations to Maine and served state and local officials with subpoenas seeking records about their opposition to the enforcement campaign. Immigration enforcement officers said they have arrested more than 10,000 undocumented immigrants in Minnesota over the past year.

Mexico sends 37 cartel members to US, cites sovereignty

2026-01-22

Mexico transferred 37 suspected members of the Sinaloa Cartel and Jalisco New Generation Cartel to the United States on Tuesday at the request of the U.S. Justice Department. President Claudia Sheinbaum said Wednesday that the decision was a "sovereign decision" by Mexico's National Security Council, made after analyzing what was "convenient for Mexico" and in line with its "national security." U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi called the transfer a "landmark achievement" in combating cartels.

S&P 500 recovers half its losses as Trump backs off Greenland tariffs

2026-01-21

The U.S. stock market bounced back Wednesday after President Donald Trump announced a framework for a deal on Greenland and said he would not impose tariffs on eight European countries he had previously threatened. The S&P 500 rallied 1.2%, recovering just over half of Tuesday's 2.1% plunge as investors reassessed the likelihood of Trump's tariff threats translating into actual policy.

Trump’s European threats leave U.S. standing uncertain, AP reports

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump’s threats aimed at Europe and the Arctic, including a push for Denmark to cede control of Greenland, have left U.S. allies signaling they are planning without American leadership, the Associated Press reported. AP said European leaders and members of Congress have responded with public warnings that the transatlantic relationship is entering a rupture rather than a reset.

More troops ordered to be ready for possible Minneapolis deployment

2026-01-21

The U.S. Army has ordered several dozen additional active-duty soldiers to prepare for a possible deployment to Minneapolis if needed, a defense official said Wednesday. The preparation orders involve an Army military police brigade at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and a separate group of soldiers from the 11th Airborne Division in Alaska amid protests tied to the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement crackdown.

Trump unveils Board of Peace in Davos after Greenland furor

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump on Thursday inaugurated a “Board of Peace” at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, saying it would help lead efforts to maintain a ceasefire in Israel’s war with Hamas. Trump said he believed “over 50” countries could join, though his launch included officials from 19 countries. The announcement came amid questions from several U.S. allies about whether they would participate and about how the board would work.

Zelenskyy says Europe’s response feels like “Groundhog Day” in Davos

2026-01-21

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told European leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos that their response to Russia’s invasion has been slow and inadequate, saying the warnings have become a “Groundhog Day” cycle. He spoke after meeting behind closed doors with U.S. President Donald Trump for about an hour on Thursday.

Maine immigrant communities brace as ICE enforcement surge begins

2026-01-21

Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents launched an enforcement operation in Maine on Tuesday called Operation "Catch of the Day," an apparent reference to the state's seafood industry. The agency had identified approximately 1,400 targets in Maine and made 50 arrests on the first day, according to Patricia Hyde, the ICE deputy assistant director. The operation marked the Trump administration's expansion of mass deportation efforts to Maine, a state with a relatively small undocumented population but significant communities of African refugees. Portland and Lewiston are home to thousands of residents of African descent, with Maine having one of the nation's highest Somali populations following accelerated immigration in the early 2000s.

Pam Bondi says Nekima Levy Armstrong was arrested after church protest

2026-01-21

Federal officials said Nekima Levy Armstrong, a civil rights attorney, was arrested after a disruption by anti-immigration enforcement protesters at a Minnesota church where an ICE official serves as a pastor, even as a judge rejected related charges against journalist Don Lemon. Vice President JD Vance urged state and local law enforcement to work with federal immigration officers and said protesters must stop getting in their way.

Trump blasts UK plan to transfer Chagos Islands to Mauritius, links it to Greenland

2026-01-21

U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday attacked a U.K.-Mauritius plan to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, describing it as a national-security mistake. Trump, who had previously backed the idea, said in a post on Truth Social that the decision involving Diego Garcia shows why he should pursue taking over Greenland.

Trump Greenland threats spark warnings and profanities at Davos

2026-01-21

European leaders warned against a “new colonial approach” as U.S. President Donald Trump pressed for Greenland and related trade tariffs during the World Economic Forum in Davos on Tuesday. California Gov. Gavin Newsom, addressing European leaders in the entrance hall, used profanity in calling for a firmer response.

Trump heads to Davos to talk about housing affordability on inauguration anniversary

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump will travel to the World Economic Forum in Davos on Wednesday, on the anniversary of his inauguration, as he seeks to persuade Americans he can make housing more affordable. The Associated Press reported that he is preparing a major address aimed at affordability while surrounded by leading figures in the Swiss resort town.

House committee advances contempt charges against Clintons

2026-01-21

The House Oversight Committee voted Wednesday to advance contempt of Congress charges against former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton over their refusal to comply with a congressional subpoena related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. In a bipartisan vote, all Republicans and nine Democrats on the committee supported the contempt charges against Bill Clinton. Three progressive Democrats — Reps. Summer Lee of Pennsylvania, Melanie Stansbury of New Mexico, and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan — also voted to advance contempt charges against Hillary Clinton.

Supreme Court skeptical of Trump bid to remove Fed Governor Cook

2026-01-21

The Supreme Court on Wednesday heard arguments on whether President Donald Trump can force Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook from her post over mortgage fraud allegations she denies, with at least six justices expressing skepticism about the effort. No president has ever fired a sitting Federal Reserve governor in the institution's 112-year history.

Georgia ex-lawmaker pleads guilty to pandemic fraud

2026-01-21

Karen Bennett, a former Georgia House member, pleaded guilty Wednesday to lying to collect federal pandemic unemployment benefits. The 70-year-old physical therapist fraudulently obtained $13,940 in federal assistance designed for those harmed by COVID-19. Bennett will repay the funds and faces sentencing in April.

Trump outlines four-point plan to boost home affordability

2026-01-21

President Trump outlined four policies Wednesday at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, aimed at making homeownership more affordable: lower interest rates, a ban on large institutional investors buying single-family homes, a credit card interest rate cap, and federal mortgage bond purchases.

Trump cancels Greenland tariff threat after NATO backs future Arctic deal

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump backed down on a threatened tariff campaign tied to Greenland and said he had agreed with NATO on a “framework of a future deal” on Arctic security, according to a post on his social media site Wednesday. The reversal came shortly after Trump told the World Economic Forum that the U.S. wanted Greenland and warned he would not rule out using “excessive strength and force.”

Argentina’s first Chinese EV shipment arrives as Milei cuts tariffs

2026-01-21

Argentina received its first shipment of Chinese electric and hybrid vehicles as President Javier Milei’s government expands tariff-free access for the cars, according to Associated Press reporting. The first shipload arrived at a river port in eastern Argentina on Monday and was unloaded Wednesday in Zárate.

Denmark and Greenland stress sovereignty after Trump Arctic access remarks

2026-01-21

Denmark and Greenland’s leaders said Thursday that Greenland’s sovereignty is non-negotiable after Donald Trump abruptly walked back tariff threats and spoke about a future Arctic security framework with NATO’s secretary general. The Denmark and Greenland messages came after Trump told Fox Business that the U.S. would have “total access” to Greenland and said the U.S. would have “all the military access we want.”

House approves final spending bills; Democrats attack ICE funding

2026-01-21

The House approved the final batch of federal spending bills for the current fiscal year on Thursday, sending the package to the Senate as lawmakers try to avert another funding lapse. The four bills total about $1.2 trillion and need final Senate action next week before a Jan. 30 deadline to avoid a partial government shutdown.

Stock market jitters help Trump soften Greenland tariffs at Davos

2026-01-21

Investors appeared to have helped prompt President Donald Trump to step back from threatening tariffs on European allies over his Greenland push, as he met world leaders at Davos, Switzerland, on Wednesday. Trump also told the packed conference room he would not use military force to take over Greenland. Hours later, he said he was retreating from the tariffs after discussions with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte produced a “framework” on Greenland.

Supreme Court seems poised to keep Lisa Cook on Fed board

2026-01-21

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday appeared inclined to keep Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook in her post as it weighs President Donald Trump’s effort to remove her. The justices heard arguments over Trump’s attempt to fire Cook based on mortgage-fraud allegations she denies.

Supreme Court weighs emergency bid to remove Fed governor Lisa Cook

2026-01-21

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday heard arguments over President Donald Trump’s request to immediately remove Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook while her legal challenge to her firing proceeds. The court is considering the emergency appeal in a politically charged dispute tied to the Federal Reserve’s independence.

Trump at Davos seeks lower mortgage rates, 10% credit cap, investor limits

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump outlined four housing-related proposals at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, aiming to make homeownership more affordable. His plan includes pushing for lower interest rates on home loans and credit cards and seeking limits on large institutional investors buying single-family homes.

Trump’s first year in office review spotlights disputed claims, AP fact checks

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump marked his first year back in office by highlighting accomplishments to world leaders in Davos, Switzerland, and during a White House press briefing, while also repeating or overstating claims that the Associated Press says are false or misleading. In an AP fact check published Wednesday, the outlet examined Trump’s statements about the 2020 election, Greenland, NATO spending and “eight wars,” as well as claims about inflation, energy and coal.

Trump’s Greenland tariff threats draw EU outrage and NATO alarm

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump’s pledge to impose tariffs on European countries tied to Greenland has drawn outrage and warnings of a rupture with Washington among European leaders and allies. The European Union’s top official said the planned tariffs over Greenland are a “mistake,” and Denmark’s and Greenland’s governments urged respect for territorial integrity and international law.

U.S. stocks rise again as Trump calls off Greenland tariff threat

2026-01-21

U.S. stocks rose again Thursday as President Donald Trump walked back tariffs he had threatened over Greenland, following earlier market volatility linked to the initial threat. The S&P 500 gained 0.5%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.6% and the Nasdaq composite climbed 0.9%.

Trump withdraws Greenland tariffs after NATO agrees on Arctic security deal

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump on Wednesday withdrew threatened tariffs on eight European nations and announced agreement with NATO on Arctic security, marking a dramatic reversal from his demands that the U.S. control Greenland. Trump said he had reached a "framework of a future deal" with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Arctic issues, potentially defusing the geopolitical crisis his earlier threats had triggered.

Former NFL reporter Michele Tafoya launches Senate bid in Minnesota

2026-01-21

Former NFL sideline reporter Michele Tafoya launched her campaign for the U.S. Senate in Minnesota on Wednesday, seeking the Republican nomination for the seat being vacated by retiring Democratic Sen. Tina Smith. In a video posted on social media, Tafoya said her campaign would “clean up the system” by fighting corruption and supporting federal law enforcement amid immigration-related turmoil in the state.

Trump holds 100-minute conference on first year, tosses accomplishments

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump held a more-than-100-minute news conference at the White House on Tuesday to recap his first year in office. The president displayed photographs of immigrants he said his administration had arrested, showed a stack labeled "Accomplishments," and described both at length before tossing them on the floor. The conference occurred at a moment of international alarm and domestic tension: Trump's weekend threats of tariffs on Europe in pursuit of Greenland had shaken the NATO alliance, and his administration had ordered 1,500 active-duty soldiers to be ready for possible deployment to the streets of Minneapolis under the Insurrection Act.

Federal judge upholds West Texas A&M drag show ban

2026-01-21

A federal judge has upheld West Texas A&M's ban on a drag show by a student group, ruling Saturday that the university did not violate the First Amendment by blocking the event. U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk found that Spectrum WT, the student organization, failed to demonstrate the 2023 drag show conveyed a specific message protected by the Constitution. The ruling effectively terminated a legal challenge set for appellate review later this week.

Judge voids NYC's only Republican House seat over voting dilution

2026-01-21

A New York judge voided the boundaries of the state's only Republican-held House district Wednesday, finding they unconstitutionally dilute the votes of Black and Hispanic residents. Justice Jeffrey Pearlman ordered New York's Independent Redistricting Commission to redraw the lines of Rep. Nicole Malliotakis's district, which includes Staten Island and part of Brooklyn, by Feb. 6.

Colombia's Petro cuts lawmakers' wages by about 30% ahead of elections

2026-01-21

Colombia’s president, Gustavo Petro, reduced wages for members of Congress by about 30% on Tuesday, as the country faces a budget crunch and prepares for elections in the first half of the year. The cut is set to take effect in July, after Colombia’s legislative elections in March, followed by presidential elections in May.

Democrat Angie Nixon announces bid for Ashley Moody’s Florida Senate seat

2026-01-21

Florida Democratic state Rep. Angie Nixon announced Thursday that she will run in 2026 for the U.S. Senate seat held by Republican Ashley Moody, the Associated Press reported. Nixon, who represents a district in Jacksonville, said her candidacy is driven by what she called an affordability crisis facing Florida residents.

Georgia GOP’s Burt Jones presses Brad Raffensperger on 2020 ballot issue

2026-01-21

Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, attacked his primary rival, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, again over the 2020 election during a Thursday Senate meeting in Georgia. The push included complaints about Raffensperger’s response to a U.S. Department of Justice request for detailed voter data and a renewed focus on Fulton County’s 2020 ballot documentation.

Judge declines to block DHS policy limiting lawmakers’ ICE facility visits

2026-01-21

A federal judge in Washington on Monday refused to temporarily block a Trump administration policy requiring members of Congress to give a week’s notice before visiting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facilities. The judge said Democratic members’ attorneys challenged the change using the wrong procedural path, and that the Jan. 8 policy is a new agency action not covered by an earlier order.

Lavrov says Trump’s Greenland push signals NATO ‘deep crisis’

2026-01-21

El canciller ruso Serguéi Lavrov dijo que la intención del presidente estadounidense Donald Trump de apoderarse de Groenlandia refleja una “crisis profunda” en la OTAN, al tiempo que advirtió de riesgos para la cohesión del bloque. Lavrov hizo los comentarios el martes en una conferencia de prensa anual sobre las prioridades de la política exterior de Moscú.

Macron message to Trump was softer on Greenland, AP reports

2026-01-21

French President Emmanuel Macron’s message to Donald Trump, published by Trump, used softer language on Greenland than Macron’s public criticism, according to the AP report. Macron’s office confirmed the message was genuine, with Macron first discussing Syria and Iran before writing, “I do not understand what you are doing on Greenland,” the AP said.

NATO chief Rutte shifts from “Teflon Mark” to “Trump whisperer”

2026-01-21

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has been credited with helping defuse tensions between the United States and Europe over Greenland after President Donald Trump said he had agreed with Rutte on a “framework of a future deal” at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The episode followed Trump’s demand that he get Greenland and a decision by Trump to drop threats of punitive tariffs on eight European nations. Rutte’s role has highlighted a diplomatic style that U.S. and European figures say helps keep Trump and the NATO alliance engaged.

Supreme Court appears poised to curb Hawaii’s “vampire rule” on guns

2026-01-21

The U.S. Supreme Court appeared likely Tuesday to strike down Hawaii’s restrictions on carrying guns into places such as stores and hotels, in a case testing how far states may limit Second Amendment rights. Justices questioned whether Hawaii could enforce the rules without undermining speech rights on private property, and the Trump administration backed the challenge.

Trump’s Greenland threats jeopardize next steps on Gaza “Board of Peace”

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump’s threats tied to Greenland are complicating the next steps in his plan to end the Israel-Hamas war, including efforts to create a U.N.-backed “Board of Peace” with an initial mandate for Gaza. The Associated Press reported on Jan. 20 that European allies have declined or withheld commitment, and that some U.S. officials are weighing ways to limit the impact of Trump’s Greenland dispute on other foreign-policy priorities.

What to know about Greenland’s role in nuclear defense and Trump’s “Golden Dome”

2026-01-21

U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed his call for the United States to take ownership of Greenland, arguing it is important to defending the country with a missile-defense system he calls “Golden Dome.” In recent comments and posts, Trump linked Greenland’s position in Arctic flight paths to warning time and to the effectiveness of interceptors, alarming Denmark-based officials and Greenlanders. (This is a guide to Greenland’s role in U.S. nuclear defense and the debate around Trump’s rationale.)

More than 20 countries join Trump's Board of Peace as allies decline

2026-01-21

More than 20 countries have said they will join U.S. President Donald Trump's Board of Peace, while Western European nations have declined their invitations. The board, initially designed to oversee the Gaza ceasefire, has expanded to include dozens of invited nations and could eventually exceed 50 members, Trump said.

Guinea-Bissau junta announces Dec. 6 election date after November coup

2026-01-21

Guinea-Bissau's military junta announced Wednesday that legislative and presidential elections will be held on December 6, according to a decree by junta leader Gen. Horta Inta-a. The election announcement marks the beginning of a promised one-year transition to civilian rule following the military's seizure of power in November.

U.S. ends support for Kurdish forces in Syria, speeding their collapse

2026-01-21

The United States withdrew military and diplomatic support from Syria's Kurdish-led forces in January 2026, allowing the new Syrian government to seize most of their territory in northeast Syria. The shift marked a reversal of years of U.S. backing for the forces, known as the Syrian Democratic Forces, in their battle against the Islamic State. The collapse followed failed negotiations over the forces' integration into the new army under interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa.

Iran announces first official protest death toll of 3,117, far below activists' count

2026-01-21

Iran's government announced Wednesday a first official death toll of 3,117 people killed in nationwide protests that began December 28, a figure significantly lower than independent monitoring groups' estimates. The Interior Ministry and the Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs, an official government body, released the figures on state television, even as the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported the toll had reached at least 4,902.

Brazilians frustrated by US visa suspension but try to remain hopeful

2026-01-21

The Trump administration on Wednesday suspended immigrant visa processing for Brazil and 74 other countries, citing concerns that nationals from these nations would likely require government assistance while in the United States. The suspension immediately halted processing of thousands of Brazilian applications for permanent residency, sparking frustration among applicants who said they remained hopeful the measure would prove temporary. The suspension builds on earlier Trump administration immigration restrictions affecting citizens across Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

Kennedy Center faces cancellations as artists withdraw amid leadership turmoil

2026-01-21

The Seattle Children's Theatre and the vocal ensemble Vocal Arts DC are among the latest artistic groups to cancel Kennedy Center performances. The cancellations follow the Trump administration's recent ousting of the Kennedy Center's leadership and an announced plan to rename the institution the Trump-Kennedy Center, a change scholars say requires congressional approval. Multiple artists, including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Issa Rae, and Bela Fleck, have already withdrawn in protest.

California EBT theft drops 80% as Trump pressures states on fraud

2026-01-21

California has reported a significant decline in electronic benefits card theft, with Gov. Gavin Newsom crediting the state's rollout of anti-fraud technology. The announcement comes as the Trump administration intensifies pressure on Democratic-led states over benefits fraud.

AP podcast reviews Trump’s second-term first-year push across policy

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump’s second administration has pursued sweeping policy changes over the past year, the Associated Press reports in a new episode of “The Story Behind the AP Story.” In the Jan. 22 episode, AP White House reporter Darlene Superville and AP Washington radio correspondent Sagar Meghani describe changes ranging from government restructuring efforts to immigration enforcement, foreign policy moves, and White House renovations.

Trump administration to expand foreign aid ban for abortion, DEI and gender identity

2026-01-21

The Trump administration plans to expand rules that restrict U.S. foreign aid for groups supporting abortion-related services to cover additional categories, including international and U.S.-based organizations that promote gender identity and diversity, equity and inclusion programs. An administration official said the State Department will issue the final rules, expanding the scope of the “Mexico City” policy, which was first established under President Ronald Reagan and later rescinded and reinstated. The changes were first reported by Fox News and are expected to be published in the Federal Register on Friday.

Trump appointees question White House ballroom design, scale at hearing

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump’s appointees on the Commission of Fine Arts asked architects and officials Thursday about the design and scale of a proposed White House ballroom expansion, during an online meeting. The hearing included questions about how the addition would affect views of the White House and whether certain elements could be toned down.

Trump holds sprawling news conference recapping first year, including Greenland plans

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump held a lengthy news conference at the White House on Tuesday to recap his first year back in office, throwing mugshot photos and a binder clip onto the briefing room floor as he spoke for more than 100 minutes. The event came as international and domestic tensions have risen, including concerns among global leaders ahead of his trip to Europe to discuss his push to take over Greenland.

Mikie Sherrill sworn in as New Jersey’s 57th governor, vows utility freeze

2026-01-21

Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat and former Navy helicopter pilot, was sworn in Tuesday as New Jersey’s 57th governor in Newark. In her inaugural remarks, Sherrill said the state would not stay quiet amid what she described as the Trump administration’s actions, and she signed executive orders including a freeze on utility rates.

Education Department drops appeal over anti-DEI funding threats

2026-01-21

The Trump administration is dropping its appeal of a federal court ruling that blocked an anti-diversity, equity and inclusion effort that threatened federal funding to schools and colleges. In a court filing Wednesday, the Education Department moved to dismiss its appeal, leaving in place an August decision by U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher that found the guidance violated the First Amendment and federal procedural rules.

Federal immigration authorities let jewelry heist suspect avoid trial by deporting

2026-01-21

Federal immigration authorities let a man accused in a $100 million jewelry heist deport himself to South America in December, according to court filings reviewed by the Associated Press. Prosecutors said they were preparing to try the case but were stunned when the suspect left the country before trial. The suspect is Jeson Nelon Presilla Flores, one of seven people charged in the 2022 Brink’s armored-truck theft.

Former Iowa superintendent pleads guilty after ICE arrest

2026-01-21

Former Iowa superintendent Ian Roberts pleaded guilty Thursday to falsely claiming U.S. citizenship on a federal employment form and to illegally possessing firearms, according to court proceedings in Des Moines. The plea, entered before U.S. Magistrate Judge Helen C. Adams, could affect his immigration case and he acknowledged he could face deportation after serving a sentence.

IRS announces leadership shake-up ahead of 2026 tax season

2026-01-21

The Internal Revenue Service announced a major leadership reorganization on Tuesday to improve taxpayer service and modernize the agency, according to Chief Executive Officer Frank Bisignano. The changes include naming Gary Shapley—a whistleblower who publicly testified about Hunter Biden tax investigations—as deputy chief of the Criminal Investigation division. Guy Ficco, the Criminal Investigation head, is set to retire, and Jarod Koopman will replace him while also serving as chief tax compliance officer. The agency is implementing new tax relief provisions for tips and overtime, along with deductions for older Americans.

Air Force One returns to Washington after electrical issue

2026-01-21

President Trump's Air Force One returned to Joint Base Andrews on Tuesday evening about an hour after departing for Switzerland, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. The crew identified a minor electrical issue after takeoff and decided to turn around out of an abundance of caution. Trump subsequently boarded an Air Force C-32, a modified Boeing 757 normally used for domestic travel, and continued to Davos for the World Economic Forum shortly after midnight.

Snapchats central to trial in Border Patrol murder-for-hire case

2026-01-21

A Chicago man went on trial Wednesday for allegedly soliciting a $10,000 bounty on Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino using Snapchat messages, in the first criminal trial stemming from the Trump administration's immigration crackdown in the nation's third-largest city.

Immigration crackdown reshapes Democratic midterm strategy

2026-01-21

Democrats are grappling with a political challenge that threatens to reshape their midterm strategy: how to respond aggressively to immigration enforcement operations they find alarming without appearing soft on immigration to voters who have historically trusted Republicans more on the issue. The challenge emerged sharply after an immigration crackdown in Minnesota that included the fatal shooting of Renee Good during a confrontation with federal agents.

Mississippi participates in federal school-choice tax-credit program

2026-01-21

Gov. Tate Reeves announced Monday that Mississippi will participate in a federal school-choice tax-credit program, permitting residents to contribute up to $1,700 annually to organizations that award scholarships to private-school students. The program, created by federal legislation passed during the Trump administration, provides dollar-for-dollar tax credits beginning in the 2027 tax year. The move creates a new mechanism for school-choice expansion as Mississippi lawmakers debate the issue.

Connecticut halts farm land revaluation after farmer pressure

2026-01-21

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont ordered a halt to new farm land valuations on Monday, citing an "unforeseen lack of data" that had undermined the state's effort to update property assessments. The decision came after weeks of intense pressure from farmers who warned that the reassessments would sharply increase taxes and potentially force families to sell their land. The state will maintain property tax valuations last set in 2020 while a working group of farmers, municipal leaders, and officials studies how to improve the assessment process. The halt averts what could have been significant financial strain for Connecticut's agricultural community.

ICE memo permits forced home entries using administrative warrants

2026-01-21

Immigration and Customs Enforcement has authorized officers to forcibly enter people's homes based solely on administrative warrants, according to an internal memo obtained by The Associated Press. The directive, issued in May 2025, marks a sharp reversal of longstanding guidance meant to respect Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches. The move comes as the Trump administration dramatically expands immigration enforcement nationwide, with thousands of officers deployed in cities including Minneapolis, where recent arrests have raised questions about agency tactics.

Nebraska plans to move boys from troubled Kearney youth center to Omaha

2026-01-21

Nebraska state leaders plan to move all boys from a youth treatment center in Kearney to a currently underutilized facility in Omaha, following multiple allegations of sexual abuse at the Kearney site. The boys would be relocated to what is now a youth prison operated by the state Department of Correctional Services, as part of a broader reshuffling of the state's in-custody juvenile population. State officials say the plan will improve living conditions and save approximately $4 million annually, but the Douglas County public defender and state employee union have raised questions about implementation readiness and impacts on youth programming.

EPA eases pollution rules under Trump; Texas air quality at risk

2026-01-21

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin announced 31 deregulatory actions within President Trump's first 100 days in office, targeting federal pollution standards from methane emissions to the legal framework obligating the EPA to regulate climate-changing pollution. Zeldin called the actions the agency's "greatest day of deregulation." The EPA also froze research grants, shrank its workforce, and removed references to climate change and environmental justice from its websites. Environmental advocates said the moves signal the EPA's new direction will prioritize deregulation over public health protections. Texas, the nation's top oil and gas producer and home to the Dallas, Houston, and Fort Worth metropolitan areas, faces particular exposure to the rollbacks because state environmental officials have shown limited interest in strengthening enforcement as federal standards weaken. Conservation groups fear the changes will bring higher pollution and health risks to communities near industrial sites.

Conservative group sues LA schools over desegregation policy

2026-01-21

The 1776 Project Foundation filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday challenging a Los Angeles schools policy intended to address segregation, alleging that the policy discriminates against white students. The challenge comes as Trump administration officials push to overturn decades-old desegregation court orders.

Former Iowa superintendent to plead guilty to false citizenship claim

2026-01-21

Ian Roberts, the former superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, is expected to plead guilty in federal court to falsely claiming U.S. citizenship and illegally possessing firearms, according to a plea agreement filed Wednesday. Roberts, a native of Guyana, faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and potential deportation after serving his sentence.

Hawaii AG launches investigation into state legislator's $35K bribery case

2026-01-21

Hawaii Attorney General Anne Lopez reversed course Tuesday, announcing that the state will investigate a 2022 case in which an unnamed state legislator accepted $35,000 in a paper bag from a bribery subject. Governor Josh Green and Lopez jointly determined that a state investigation is warranted in the public interest. The reversal follows weeks of mounting public pressure, including a citizen petition signed by more than 1,000 people and calls from lawmakers for disclosure of the legislator's identity.

Planned Parenthood offers vasectomies in Michigan as abortion access drops

2026-01-21

Planned Parenthood of Michigan announced it will offer vasectomy services at its Grand Rapids health center, responding to increased demand for permanent birth control alternatives following the Supreme Court's 2022 decision restricting abortion rights. The procedure will cost $800 without insurance and be available to adults 21 and older. The organization says it ceased offering vasectomies about a decade ago but is resuming services due to the surge in patient interest.

Alaska foster youth advocates sue state over food and necessities

2026-01-21

Facing Foster Care in Alaska filed a lawsuit against the state's Office of Children's Services on January 6, alleging that foster youth placed in shelters and college dormitories are not receiving enough money for food and basic necessities. The advocacy organization, led by director Amanda Metivier, says youth in these settings receive far less support than the more than $1,000 monthly stipend provided to foster families for the same needs. The suit challenges what Metivier calls a disparity in how the state cares for older youth transitioning toward adulthood.

Nevada voters to decide 31 percent of District Court judges in November

2026-01-21

Nevada voters will decide on 31 percent of the state's District Court judges when they head to the polls in November, with a total of 155 candidates filing for election to the judiciary, according to reporting from the Associated Press. The remaining two-thirds of judges retained their seats after no opponents filed during the judicial candidate filing period that closed Friday.

Former DEA agent gets 5 years for shielding Buffalo drug traffickers from investigation

2026-01-21

A federal judge in Buffalo, New York sentenced former Drug Enforcement Administration agent Joseph Bongiovanni to five years in prison Wednesday for using his law enforcement position to protect childhood friends who ran a drug trafficking network. U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo imposed the sentence after a jury convicted Bongiovanni, 61, in 2024 on counts of obstruction of justice, conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and making false statements to law enforcement. Prosecutors had sought 15 years.

Berkeley council allows ADUs to be sold as condos, with tenant debate

2026-01-21

Berkeley’s City Council voted to allow accessory dwelling units, including backyard cottages, to be converted and sold as condominiums under a new ordinance. The decision, approved Tuesday night, is intended to increase housing opportunities for residents in one of California’s highest-cost markets.

BLM revokes American Prairie’s bison grazing leases in Montana

2026-01-21

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management has revoked grazing permits in Phillips County, Montana, that American Prairie used to sustain its bison herd, the Department of the Interior said Friday. The decision follows a three-and-a-half-year dispute involving the Montana livestock industry, backed by Gov. Greg Gianforte and the state attorney general, and American Prairie, a conservation nonprofit.

Doctors warn Trump immigration crackdown is disrupting health care in Minnesota

2026-01-21

Doctors in Minnesota said the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement has driven patients to miss prenatal and other medical care and has heightened fear among hospital staff, prompting some facilities to shift communications to encrypted channels. The doctors spoke Tuesday at a news conference in St. Paul, according to the Associated Press. The article described individual cases including a pregnant woman who missed a checkup and later went into labor before she could be treated, and detained patients who lacked access to needed medications.

Elizabeth Hurley testifies Daily Mail hacked her privacy in UK lawsuit

2026-01-21

Elizabeth Hurley testified in London’s High Court that the Daily Mail publisher unlawfully hacked her privacy, saying it involved phone tapping, microphones outside her windows and the stealing of her medical records. She described the alleged intrusions during testimony in a privacy invasion lawsuit that also includes Prince Harry and Elton John, along with four other co-claimants.

EU proposes mandatory phaseout of “high-risk” telecom suppliers in critical networks

2026-01-21

The European Union said it plans to require the phaseout of telecom equipment from “high risk” suppliers in critical infrastructure within three years, part of new cybersecurity proposals. The European Commission’s draft rules cover networks including high-speed telecom services and are widely viewed as targeting Chinese companies such as Huawei and ZTE.

Ex-DEA agent Joseph Bongiovanni gets 5 years for protecting drug traffickers

2026-01-21

Former DEA agent Joseph Bongiovanni was sentenced to five years in federal prison in Buffalo, New York, for using his badge to protect childhood friends who became drug traffickers. U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo handed down the term on Wednesday, after two lengthy trials that ended in mixed verdicts.

Exagente de la DEA Joseph Bongiovanni recibe 5 años por corrupción

2026-01-21

Joseph Bongiovanni, exagente de la DEA, fue sentenciado a cinco años de prisión federal en Buffalo, Nueva York, por cargos de corrupción. El juez federal Lawrence J. Vilardo impuso la pena el miércoles tras dos juicios prolongados. La fiscalía había pedido 15 años, y un jurado lo absolvió de los cargos más graves, incluida una acusación de que se embolsó 250.000 dólares en sobornos vinculados a la mafia.

Families demand release of nearly 800 Venezuelan prisoners

2026-01-21

Venezuelan prisoners’ families demanded the release of nearly 800 people still detained, calling for the government to move beyond a limited set of releases. The appeals came Tuesday as relatives waited outside prisons in Caracas after President Nicolás Maduro’s successor announced a “significant number” would be freed.

FDA considers whether Zyn can be marketed as safer than cigarettes

2026-01-21

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration held a public meeting Thursday to review whether Philip Morris International can use new marketing language for Zyn flavored nicotine pouches, including claims they are less harmful than cigarettes for adults who smoke. Government documents and presentations made at the meeting suggest regulators are leaning toward approving the request, though a panel of independent experts questioned details about the company’s research and risks of underage use.

Federal agents detain Minnesota 5-year-old and his father in raids

2026-01-21

Federal agents detained a 5-year-old boy as he returned home from preschool in Minnesota and took his father to a detention facility in Texas, school officials and the family’s lawyer said. The boy’s father had an active asylum case and had not been ordered removed, Columbia Heights Public Schools Superintendent Zena Stenvik said.

FTC to appeal ruling that rejected its Meta antitrust case

2026-01-21

The Federal Trade Commission said Tuesday it will appeal a November decision that ruled in favor of Meta in the FTC’s antitrust case over social networking. The FTC said it continues to allege that Meta “illegally maintained a monopoly” in social networking through anticompetitive conduct involving Instagram and WhatsApp.

ICE memo says officers may enter homes using administrative warrants

2026-01-21

Federal immigration officers are asserting authority to forcibly enter people’s homes without a judge’s warrant, according to an internal Immigration and Customs Enforcement memo obtained by The Associated Press on Jan. 21, 2026. The memo, signed in May 2025 by acting ICE director Todd Lyons, would allow entry based on an administrative warrant to arrest a person with a final order of removal.

Israeli settlers mark Yatziv settlement’s inauguration in West Bank

2026-01-21

Israeli ministers and settler leaders inaugurated a new settlement outpost in the occupied West Bank on Monday, celebrating its rapid transformation into a recognized settlement called Yatziv, formerly Shdema. The site sits adjacent to the Palestinian city of Beit Sahour, overlooking the town across a West Bank valley. Finance Minister and settler leader Bezalel Smotrich said at the ceremony that they intend to remain there permanently and will not establish a Palestinian state there.

Maine Gov. Mills demands warrants and arrest data amid ICE operation

2026-01-21

Maine Gov. Janet Mills demanded federal immigration officials provide warrants, real-time arrest figures and information about who is detained as an enforcement operation in the state has spread fear through immigrant communities. Mills said Thursday that her office has not received responses from President Donald Trump’s administration and criticized what she called “secret arrests.”

Mayor Mamdani, Sen. Sanders rally with striking NYC nurses in Manhattan

2026-01-21

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders rallied with nurses in Manhattan on Tuesday, the ninth day of a strike affecting multiple major hospital systems. The rally took place outside Mount Sinai West on the Upper West Side as nurses continued walking off the job beginning Jan. 12.

Mississippi man pleads not guilty to federal synagogue arson charge

2026-01-21

JACKSON, Miss., Jan. 20 — Stephen Spencer Pittman pleaded not guilty Tuesday to a federal arson charge connected to a fire that badly damaged the Beth Israel Congregation, a historic Mississippi synagogue that had been bombed by the Ku Klux Klan in 1967.

Missouri rejects NCAA bid to ban college athlete prop bets

2026-01-21

Missouri gambling regulators rejected a request from the NCAA to restrict wagers on the performance of college athletes, the Associated Press reported Thursday. The Missouri Gaming Commission said it did not yet have enough information to prohibit college athlete prop bets, though it left open the possibility of revisiting the issue.

Nevada ethics complaint alleges Lt. Gov. Stavros Anthony used X to promote book

2026-01-21

Nevada political consultant Lindsey Harmon filed an ethics complaint against Lt. Gov. Stavros Anthony, alleging he used the office’s X account to promote his newly published book for personal financial benefit, according to the complaint. The filing alleges the social-media page was set up to resemble Anthony’s official lieutenant governor account and included a link to the state’s website, The Nevada Independent reported through an Associated Press distribution.

New Virginia AG Jones seeks to withdraw from DOJ deal over in-state tuition

2026-01-21

Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones filed to withdraw from a U.S. Department of Justice agreement tied to litigation over in-state tuition for some immigrant students, days after taking office. Jones’s motion asks a federal court to undo a prior effort to invalidate Virginia’s 2020 “Dream Act” that allows eligible undocumented students to receive in-state tuition. The U.S. Justice Department, which brought the challenge, declined comment because the case is pending.

Rhode Island weighs ending Mr. Potato Head specialty license plates

2026-01-21

Rhode Island lawmakers are considering whether to end Mr. Potato Head specialty license plates after Hasbro announced it would move its headquarters to Boston, according to a proposal filed in January. The measure would have the state Division of Motor Vehicles stop offering the plate, which currently costs about $40 and directs half of that amount to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.

Sweden urges EU talks on Afghan deportation documents for rejected asylum cases

2026-01-21

Sweden’s migration minister urged the European Union to agree on a common procedure for issuing ID and travel documents for Afghans whose asylum applications have been rejected or who have committed crimes. Johan Forssell made the request on Thursday during an informal meeting of EU Justice and Home Affairs ministers in Nicosia, Cyprus. He said it is “more or less impossible” to deport Afghans now because many do not have ID or passports.

Trump-appointed prosecutor Lindsey Halligan is leaving post

2026-01-21

Attorney General Pam Bondi said Tuesday night that Lindsey Halligan, the Trump-appointed interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, is leaving the post as her 120-day tenure ends. Halligan’s departure comes after judges said her appointment was unlawful and ordered steps to end her ability to represent herself as the United States attorney in court.

Trump oil-price pledge could disrupt Texas output and local tax revenue

2026-01-21

President Donald Trump has pledged to lower oil prices to $50 a barrel, an idea Texas industry and economists say could reduce drilling activity and affect jobs and local tax revenue. The promise comes as Texas’ oil and gas sector rebounded in recent years, after COVID-19-era price declines.

UK to consider social media ban for young teens after Australia move

2026-01-21

The British government said it will consider banning young teenagers from social media as it reviews online-safety rules, according to Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Starmer wrote that “no option is off the table,” including looking at what age children should access social media and whether restrictions are needed for addictive features such as infinite scrolling or streaks.

US citizen says ICE detained him at gunpoint in underwear in Minnesota

2026-01-21

ST. PAUL, Minn. — A U.S. citizen says federal immigration agents detained him at gunpoint in his Minnesota home without a warrant and led him outside in only underwear in subfreezing weather, according to his family and videos reviewed by The Associated Press. The man, ChongLy “Scott” Thao, said agents broke down a door and later returned him to his house after determining he was a U.S. citizen with no criminal record.

Vance in Minneapolis blames “far-left” and local officials for ICE unrest

2026-01-21

Vice President JD Vance told supporters in Minneapolis on Thursday that he had come to “lower the temperature” amid unrest tied to the White House’s aggressive deportation campaign, blaming “far-left people” and state and local law enforcement for chaos. He urged Minnesota leaders to “meet us halfway” and said the Justice Department is investigating top Democrats in the state, including Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, over whether they obstruct immigration enforcement.

Venezuela opposition leader’s son-in-law freed after 380 days in detention

2026-01-21

Venezuela’s interim authorities released Rafael Tudares Bracho, the son-in-law of opposition figure Edmundo González, after 380 days in detention, his wife said Thursday. Mariana González said he had returned home following more than a year of incommunicado detention, and she described the imprisonment as “unjust and arbitrary.”

Peru's interim president under investigation over Chinese businessmen meetings

2026-01-21

Peru's interim President José Jerí appeared before a congressional oversight committee Wednesday to address unregistered meetings with two Chinese business owners — encounters that have triggered a criminal investigation and calls for his removal. The scandal marks the latest instability in a country that has seen seven presidents since 2016 and faces a general election in April amid widespread public outcry over violent crime.

Tiananmen vigil organizers enter not guilty pleas in Hong Kong trial

2026-01-21

Two organizers of Hong Kong's Tiananmen Square vigil entered not guilty pleas Thursday, while a third pleaded guilty in a trial that tests the limits of Hong Kong's national security law. Chow Hang-tung and Lee Cheuk-yan were charged with inciting subversion for their work with the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, the group that organized decades of annual vigils commemorating the 1989 Tiananmen crackdown. Albert Ho, also a former leader of the alliance, entered a guilty plea before Judge Alex Lee.

US transfers first Islamic State detainees from Syria to Iraq

2026-01-21

The U.S. military on Wednesday began transferring Islamic State detainees held by Kurdish forces in northeastern Syria to secure facilities in Iraq, marking a significant shift in the region's security architecture as Syria's government consolidates control. Under an agreement, detainees are being transferred from Hassakeh province to Iraq, with plans to eventually relocate as many as 7,000 people held in Syrian detention camps.

Trump pitches affordability to billionaires at Davos

2026-01-20

President Donald Trump plans to address housing affordability Wednesday at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on the anniversary of his inauguration. The speech comes in a Swiss mountain town where luxury ski chalets rent for $4.4 million—and where he may encounter many of the billionaires he has surrounded himself with during his first year back in the White House.

US military seizes seventh Venezuelan oil tanker

2026-01-20

U.S. military forces seized the Motor Vessel Sagitta on Tuesday, a seventh oil tanker connected to Venezuela, as the Trump administration consolidates control over Venezuela's oil production following the January 3 ouster of President Nicolás Maduro. U.S. Southern Command said the seizure occurred "without incident." The command stated the tanker was operating in violation of the Trump administration's "established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean."

Trump targets opponents with subpoenas, Fed fight and court cases, AP says

2026-01-20

Donald Trump’s administration has taken steps against multiple officials and institutions that opposed or resisted the president, including Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, the Federal Reserve and several former federal officials, according to an Associated Press review. The reporting describes subpoenas seeking records from Minnesota officials tied to an immigration enforcement operation, new legal pressure involving Federal Reserve independence, and revived or continuing federal probes and litigation around figures Trump previously targeted.

EU warns of trade 'bazooka' as Trump's Greenland tariffs rattle NATO allies

2026-01-20

European Union leaders warned Tuesday of sweeping countermeasures against the United States after President Donald Trump announced plans to impose 10 percent import tariffs on goods from eight European nations, framing the taxes as retaliation for those countries' deployment of troops to Greenland in symbolic support of Danish sovereignty. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, called the plan a "mistake" and warned that the bloc's response "will be unflinching, united and proportional." French President Emmanuel Macron said the EU could use its anti-coercion instrument — known colloquially as a trade "bazooka" — against the United States for the first time.

China meets soybean purchase target as Trump tariff threats loom

2026-01-20

China has completed its initial commitment to purchase 12 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced Tuesday from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. But the broader trade agreement—which requires China to buy 25 million tons annually over the next three years—faces uncertainty as President Donald Trump threatens to shift tariff policy.

Supreme Court weighs Trump's effort to oust Fed governor Cook

2026-01-20

The Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday on President Trump's unprecedented bid to remove Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook from her post, a case that probes whether the central bank can remain independent from political pressure. Trump's lawyers contend Cook committed mortgage fraud, allegations she denies. If successful, the effort would mark the first time a president has fired a sitting Fed governor in the agency's 112-year history.

Wall Street sinks 2% on Trump tariff threat to 8 European nations

2026-01-20

Stocks fell sharply on Wall Street on Tuesday, with the S&P 500 declining 2.1% to 6,796.86 after President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 10% tariff on imports from eight European nations including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland.

Trump endorses Julia Letlow in GOP fight against Sen. Bill Cassidy

2026-01-20

President Donald Trump is endorsing Rep. Julia Letlow in a Louisiana Republican Senate primary against Sen. Bill Cassidy, a move that puts the president at odds with parts of Senate Republican leadership. Letlow announced the bid Tuesday in Baton Rouge after receiving Trump’s endorsement, while Cassidy has faced Trump’s ire since voting to convict Trump during the president’s 2021 impeachment trial.

Trump’s tax and spending cuts bill pays for ICE expansion

2026-01-20

President Donald Trump’s rapidly expanding Immigration and Customs Enforcement force is being bankrolled by billions from a Republican tax and spending package, according to an Associated Press analysis. The money is tied to hiring bonuses of $50,000, growth plans that would lift ICE to about 22,000 officers, and new spending for operations and detention facilities.

Mississippi man pleads not guilty to synagogue fire

2026-01-20

Stephen Spencer Pittman pleaded not guilty Tuesday to federal arson charges related to a fire that damaged Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi. The 19-year-old defendant appeared in court with bandaged burn wounds on his hands and ankles. Magistrate Judge LaKeysha Greer Isaac denied bond, ordering him held in federal custody pending trial. The fire occurred January 10, shortly after 3 a.m., with no injuries reported.

Trump's Greenland threats jeopardize Gaza peace board

2026-01-20

President Trump's threats to seize Greenland and tariff European allies have undermined the U.N.-backed Board of Peace he had positioned to oversee Gaza's reconstruction and address global conflicts, according to the White House and allied governments. The board, which received U.N. Security Council approval in late 2025, was set to launch this week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Instead, fewer than 10 of more than 60 invited world leaders have accepted, including Britain, France and Germany, which expressed skepticism about the initiative's scope and composition.

Trump repeats false claims on election, economy, and war settlements

2026-01-20

President Donald Trump repeated false and misleading claims about the 2020 election, the U.S. economy, and international conflicts while marking his first year back in office, according to an Associated Press fact check published January 20. Trump claimed the 2020 election was rigged, said he settled eight wars, and overstated economic improvements during an appearance Tuesday at the White House and Wednesday in Davos, Switzerland.

Minnesota doctors describe healthcare chaos in Trump crackdown

2026-01-20

In January, doctors and nurses in Minnesota began documenting unprecedented fear and disruption in healthcare delivery following the Trump administration's extension of immigration enforcement into hospitals. The shift ended a 14-year sanctuary policy that had protected hospitals from immigration raids since 2011, allowing federal agents to conduct enforcement operations in facilities previously off-limits to immigration authorities. 'I have been a practicing physician for more than 19 years here in Minnesota, and I have never seen this level of chaos and fear,' said Dr. Roli Dwivedi, past president of the Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians, speaking Tuesday at a St. Paul news conference.

Vice President JD Vance, wife Usha expecting fourth child in July

2026-01-20

Vice President JD Vance and second lady Usha Vance announced January 20 they are expecting their fourth child, a son due in late July. The couple shared the news in a social media post. The expected son will join their three other children: Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel. Vance, 41, and his wife, 40, said both mother and baby were doing well.

Sherrill sworn in as New Jersey governor, pledges utility rate freeze

2026-01-20

Democrat Mikie Sherrill, a four-term congresswoman and former Navy helicopter pilot, was inaugurated Tuesday as New Jersey's 57th governor, becoming only the second woman to lead the state. In her inaugural address delivered in Newark, Sherrill adopted a confrontational stance toward the Trump administration, invoking the Declaration of Independence while directly criticizing federal tariffs and immigration enforcement.

Trump marks first year in second term, leaning into attention and disruption

2026-01-20

President Donald Trump spent about 1 hour and 45 minutes in the White House briefing room on Tuesday for the first anniversary of his second inauguration, touching topics from foreign leaders to his relationship with God. The Associated Press described a pattern in which Trump’s approach to the presidency relies heavily on dominating news cycles and social media.

Slave descendants win referendum to limit home sizes on Sapelo Island

2026-01-20

Coastal Georgia voters backed a referendum overriding McIntosh County’s 2023 move to allow larger homes in the Hogg Hummock community on Sapelo Island, where Black landowners fear rising property-tax bills. The vote was held Tuesday, and unofficial results showed about 85% of ballots cast in favor, according to the county elections supervisor.

Netflix earnings beat estimates but subscriber growth plummets

2026-01-20

Netflix reported fourth-quarter 2025 earnings Tuesday that beat analyst expectations on profit and revenue, but the company's subscriber growth dramatically slowed, adding about 23 million customers last year—far fewer than the 41 million it added in 2024 and a sign that growth in the world's largest streaming service may be plateauing.

Federal prosecutors subpoena Minnesota officials in immigration enforcement probe

2026-01-20

Federal prosecutors served grand jury subpoenas Tuesday to Minnesota's governor, attorney general, and the mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul as part of an investigation into whether they obstructed federal immigration enforcement during a sweeping crackdown in the Twin Cities area. The subpoenas, which seek records, were directed to the offices of Gov. Tim Walz, Attorney General Keith Ellison, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her, and officials in Ramsey and Hennepin counties, according to a person familiar with the matter. The investigation is examining whether Minnesota officials' public statements constituted a conspiracy to impede law enforcement, according to two people familiar with the probe.

Hawaii deploys deputies for statewide traffic enforcement

2026-01-20

State Transportation Director Ed Sniffen said Hawaii will deploy deputy sheriffs statewide for traffic enforcement, using $2 million in federal highway safety funding for overtime. The effort comes after traffic deaths on Hawaiian roads surged to 129 last year, a 20% increase from 2024 and the highest number of fatalities since 2007.

Hawaii launches $2 million charter-flight program for isolated island patients

2026-01-20

Hawaii launched a $2 million charter-flight pilot program for Moloka'i and Lana'i patients who face barriers reaching off-island medical specialists amid commercial airline disruptions. The program will provide free chartered flights for patients with physician referrals, with service beginning this month.

Interior revokes American Prairie's bison grazing permits in Montana

2026-01-20

The U.S. Department of the Interior revoked grazing permits that American Prairie, a conservation nonprofit, had been using to sustain a herd of approximately 900 bison on federal public lands in Phillips County, Montana, the agency announced Friday. The decision concludes a 3.5-year dispute between the nonprofit and Montana's livestock industry, backed by Gov. Greg Gianforte and state officials, over whether bison qualify as production animals under federal law.

ICE detains U.S. citizen in underwear without warrant, suit planned

2026-01-20

Federal immigration agents detained a U.S. citizen at his Minnesota home at gunpoint without a warrant and led him outside in freezing weather wearing only underwear, according to his account, family members and videos reviewed by The Associated Press. ChongLy "Scott" Thao said agents bashed open his St. Paul home on Sunday and immediately pointed guns at his family. When he was later detained, agents prevented him from retrieving his identification documents and led him outside in subfreezing conditions wearing only underwear, sandals and a blanket. The detention occurred as federal immigration agents conduct a massive operation in the Twin Cities, which has drawn backlash from residents and local leaders over warrantless arrests, aggressive clashes with protesters, and a fatal shooting.

Florida congresswoman's COVID funds arraignment rescheduled to Feb. 3

2026-01-20

A federal judge in Miami rescheduled the arraignment of U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick to Feb. 3 on Tuesday, granting the Florida Democrat two more weeks to finalize legal representation in her federal fraud case. Cherfilus-McCormick is charged with conspiring to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds. Judge Enjoliqué A. Lett granted the delay at the request of the defense; prosecutors did not object.

Powell to attend Supreme Court argument in Fed governor Cook firing case

2026-01-19

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell plans to attend the Supreme Court's oral argument Wednesday in the case over President Donald Trump's attempted firing of Fed governor Lisa Cook, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity. The appearance would mark a more public show of support for Cook than Powell has previously offered, as the Fed chair moves toward open confrontation with the White House over central bank independence.

Immigrant dies at El Paso tent complex; prior detainee death ruled likely homicide

2026-01-19

Victor Manuel Diaz, 36, a Nicaraguan immigrant detained during a Jan. 6 federal immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota, was found dead Jan. 14 at a tent detention facility on the grounds of Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, Immigration and Customs Enforcement said. ICE said Diaz appeared to have killed himself. His death came at the same facility where a fellow detainee died earlier this month in circumstances the El Paso County Medical Examiner has since classified as a likely homicide.

Bernice King calls MLK Day a “saving grace” amid Trump era policies

2026-01-19

Bernice King, the daughter of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., said the MLK holiday offers a “saving grace” this year, calling it a “sense of sanity and morality” amid political turmoil. In an interview with The Associated Press, King said her father’s teachings—especially hope and nonviolence—remain a guide nearly six decades after his assassination.

Trump threatens Greenland tariffs; European shares fall, US futures sink

2026-01-19

President Donald Trump's threat on Saturday to impose an additional 10 percent tariff on imports from eight European nations that oppose U.S. control of Greenland rattled financial markets on Monday, sending European stocks mostly lower and pushing U.S. futures into negative territory while American exchanges were closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Germany's DAX fell 1.3 percent, France's CAC 40 declined 1.9 percent, and Britain's FTSE 100 shed 0.4 percent, according to the Associated Press. S&P 500 futures dropped 1 percent, Dow futures fell 0.8 percent, and Nasdaq futures slid 1.2 percent as of 11:48 a.m. Eastern time.

Trump ties Greenland push to Nobel snub, threatens tariffs on NATO allies

2026-01-19

President Donald Trump linked his push to seize Greenland to Norway's decision not to award him the Nobel Peace Prize, telling Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in a text message that he no longer felt obligated to think only about peace, according to a message released Monday by the Norwegian government. The White House confirmed the message and has not ruled out military force to take control of the Danish autonomous territory. Trump also announced 10 percent tariffs beginning in February on products from eight European countries — including Norway and Denmark — after several of those nations deployed small troop contingents to Greenland, which European officials said was intended to demonstrate commitment to Arctic security in response to Trump's stated concerns about Russian and Chinese interference in the region.

European governments blast Trump’s 10% Greenland tariff threat

2026-01-19

European governments criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement that eight countries would face a 10% tariff over opposing American control of Greenland, according to statements issued Jan. 18. Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland said Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and warned against using tariffs against allies.

Hawaii gun law faces Supreme Court scrutiny over private property default rule

2026-01-19

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments Tuesday in a challenge to Hawaii's rule that firearms may not be carried on privately owned, publicly accessible property — including stores, hotels, beaches, and bars — unless the owner explicitly permits it. Three Maui residents who sued the state in 2023 argue the default prohibition violates their Second Amendment right to carry firearms for self-defense. The case is the first significant gun-carry dispute before the high court since its 2022 ruling that sharply expanded public carry rights nationwide.

Yemeni politicians meet in Riyadh to discuss future of southern Yemen

2026-01-19

Yemeni politicians met Sunday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in their first public gathering since a UAE-backed southern separatist group was disbanded. The meeting discussed the future of southern Yemen ahead of a Saudi-sponsored conference, with dates not yet announced.

Hackers disrupt Iran state TV as crackdown death toll surpasses 4,000

2026-01-19

Hackers disrupted Iranian state television satellite transmissions Sunday night to broadcast footage supporting the country's exiled crown prince and urging security forces to defect, the latest act of disruption as the death toll from authorities' crackdown on nationwide protests reached at least 4,029 people, activists said. A U.S. aircraft carrier strike group that had been operating in the South China Sea passed through the Strait of Malacca, placing it on a route that could take it to the Middle East, ship-tracking data analyzed by the Associated Press showed.

Museveni says landslide win shows his party’s dominance as opposition seeks legal challenge

2026-01-19

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni said Sunday that his landslide victory in the country’s election shows the dominance of his party, the National Resistance Movement. Museveni, 81, made the remarks a day after officials declared him the winner, following a vote he said was marked by low turnout. His main challenger, musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, rejected the official result as fake and has said he may take the matter to court.

Babson student describes life upended after mistaken deportation

2026-01-19

Babson College freshman Any Lucia Lopez Belloza told The Associated Press she was mistakenly deported to Honduras even after a Massachusetts judge ordered her not to leave the United States. Lopez Belloza said she was detained at Boston’s airport on Nov. 20 while preparing to fly to Texas for Thanksgiving and was deported two days later.

Trump appoints four members to Commission of Fine Arts for White House ballroom

2026-01-19

President Donald Trump this week quietly appointed four new members to the Commission of Fine Arts, which is one of two federal panels reviewing the administration’s plan for a White House ballroom. The new members were disclosed in court papers filed Thursday as the National Trust for Historic Preservation seeks to halt related work. The Commission of Fine Arts is scheduled to meet Jan. 22.

Communities mark MLK Day at 40 years as Trump policies renew civil rights debate

2026-01-19

Communities across the United States held parades, church services, and rallies Monday for the 40th federal observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, with many participants and organizers saying the current political climate gives the holiday renewed urgency. In Atlanta, speakers at Ebenezer Baptist Church — where King preached — called out what they described as attempts to rewrite the history of racial injustice. In Washington, hundreds braved cold weather to march along Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue. At Indiana University Indianapolis, administrators canceled a King Day dinner for the first time in 60 years. And in Westbrook, Maine, a church called off its service after reports that immigration enforcement agents were operating in the area.

Federal offices, banks closed for MLK Day; national parks drop free admission

2026-01-19

Federal and state government offices, courts, most schools, banks, and U.S. stock markets are closed Monday in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. National parks remain open but will no longer offer free admission on the holiday this year, following a policy change directed by President Donald Trump. Most retailers and other businesses are operating on regular schedules.

DOJ investigates protesters who disrupted St. Paul church where ICE field director pastors

2026-01-19

The U.S. Department of Justice announced Sunday it is investigating a group of protesters who disrupted services at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, where a man identified in court filings as the acting director of the local ICE field office also serves as a pastor. A livestreamed video posted on the Black Lives Matter Minnesota Facebook page shows protesters interrupting the service by chanting 'ICE out' and 'Justice for Renee Good' — a 37-year-old mother of three fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis earlier this month amid a surge in federal immigration enforcement.

Protesters disrupt St. Paul church service; DOJ opens FACE Act investigation

2026-01-19

About three dozen anti-immigration-enforcement protesters entered Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, during Sunday services on Jan. 18, with some walking toward the pulpit and others chanting "ICE out" and "Renee Good" — the name of a woman an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer fatally shot in Minneapolis on Jan. 7. The service was forced to end prematurely, according to the Minnesota-Wisconsin Baptist Convention. The U.S. Department of Justice said it has opened a civil rights investigation into potential violations of the federal Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act.

US activist group says it verified 3,919 deaths in Iran protests

2026-01-19

A U.S.-based activist agency said it has verified at least 3,919 deaths during protests that swept Iran and were followed by a deadly crackdown, warning the figure could be higher. The Human Rights Activists News Agency posted the revised toll on Sunday, up from a previous count of 3,308, AP reported.

Ventura of Portugal’s Chega takes second spot in presidential vote; runoff Feb. 8

2026-01-19

Portugal’s presidential election results released with nearly all votes counted Sunday put far-right populist leader André Ventura in second place. Ventura of the Chega party won about 24% of the vote, trailing António José Seguro, a center-left Socialist Party candidate who led with about 31%. The two will face each other in a runoff on Feb. 8, replacing President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa once his second five-year term ends.

Congress scrambles to contain Trump's Greenland threats as NATO fracture fears grow

2026-01-18

Bipartisan U.S. senators traveled to Copenhagen last week, Republican lawmakers introduced legislation, and senior members of both parties delivered floor speeches on NATO's importance, as Congress sought to push back against President Donald Trump's repeated threats to seize Greenland from NATO ally Denmark. Trump escalated on Saturday, saying he would impose a 10 percent import tax beginning in February on goods from eight European nations because of their opposition to his Greenland plans.

Powell to attend Supreme Court argument on Cook firing case

2026-01-18

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell will attend the Supreme Court’s oral argument on Wednesday in a case challenging President Donald Trump’s attempt to remove Fed Gov. Lisa Cook, the Associated Press reported. The high court is considering whether Trump can fire Cook, who has sued to keep her job.

Trump suggests tariffs over Greenland as Congress seeks to lower tensions

2026-01-18

U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday he may punish countries with tariffs unless they support a U.S.-controlled Greenland, a semiautonomous territory of NATO ally Denmark. The remarks came as a bipartisan Congressional delegation met Danish and Greenlandic lawmakers in Copenhagen to reduce tensions.

Israel objects to White House plan naming Gaza oversight leaders

2026-01-18

Israel’s government objected to a White House announcement naming leaders who would oversee next steps in Gaza as the ceasefire enters its second phase. In a statement Saturday, Israel said a Gaza executive committee “was not coordinated with Israel” and was contrary to its policy, and it told the foreign ministry to contact Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Judge blocks federal officers in Minneapolis immigration operation from detaining

2026-01-18

A Minnesota judge ruled Friday that federal officers participating in an immigration enforcement operation in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area cannot detain or use tear gas on peaceful protesters who are not obstructing authorities. The ruling came in a lawsuit filed in December by six Minnesota activists, according to court documents described by the Associated Press.

Minneapolis mayor calls idea of sending soldiers in ICE crackdown unconstitutional

2026-01-18

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said Sunday that sending active-duty soldiers to help with an immigration crackdown in Minnesota would be unconstitutional, calling the idea “ridiculous.” He urged protesters to stay peaceful as protests continued after the Department of Homeland Security increased immigration enforcement in the Twin Cities by bringing in more than 2,000 federal officers.

Republicans and Democrats seek limits on Trump’s Greenland threats

2026-01-18

President Donald Trump has threatened tariffs on countries that do not back the U.S. controlling Greenland, prompting Republican and Democratic lawmakers to seek ways to limit any military or economic action without congressional consent. The confrontation has raised concerns on Capitol Hill about possible strains on Denmark and on NATO. <a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-republicans-trump-greenland-denmark-28252fc0691a183f52d3c4a77369457b">Associated Press reported</a> the push as lawmakers debate what Congress can do if Trump presses ahead.

Trump links Greenland stance to Nobel Peace Prize snub

2026-01-18

U.S. President Donald Trump linked his threats over Greenland to last year’s decision not to award him the Nobel Peace Prize, according to a text message released Monday involving Norway’s prime minister. The message tied Trump’s stance to a claim that he no longer felt “an obligation to think purely of Peace,” after Norway did not award him the prize.

Abigail Spanberger sworn in as Virginia’s first female governor

2026-01-18

Abigail Spanberger was sworn in Saturday at the Virginia state Capitol as the state’s first woman governor, succeeding Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Democrats said her inauguration comes as they hold more power in Virginia while Republican President Donald Trump sits in Washington.

Bernice King calls MLK Day a 'saving grace' amid political turbulence

2026-01-18

The Rev. Bernice King, CEO of the King Center in Atlanta and daughter of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., said the federal holiday honoring her father arrives this year as "somewhat of a saving grace" — a moral counterweight, she said, to rollbacks of diversity programs, changes to government historical content, and immigration enforcement she described as turning violent.

Minneapolis mayor calls military deployment for immigration crackdown unconstitutional

2026-01-18

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey on Sunday called a potential military deployment to enforce immigration law in the city "ridiculous and unconstitutional," urging protesters to remain peaceful as the Pentagon placed about 1,500 active-duty soldiers based in Alaska on standby for a possible deployment. President Donald Trump has since stepped back from the threat, at least for now, according to defense officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military plans. The standby order covers two infantry battalions of the Army's 11th Airborne Division, soldiers who specialize in arctic operations, the officials said. The troops would deploy only if Trump invokes the Insurrection Act, a rarely used 19th-century law that would authorize sending federal military forces into Minnesota over the objections of its governor.

Californians can use DROP to delete data from brokers starting Aug. 1

2026-01-18

Californians starting Aug. 1 can use a new state privacy tool, called the Delete Request and Opt-out Platform (DROP), to ask data brokers to delete their personal information. The California privacy watchdog says the system will let residents request removal of data held by more than 500 registered brokers.

EU and Mercosur sign trade deal, setting stage for EP ratification

2026-01-18

The European Union and Mercosur formally signed a long-sought free trade agreement Saturday in Asuncion, Paraguay, the Associated Press reported. The deal would gradually eliminate more than 90% of tariffs on goods traded between the blocs and must still be ratified by the European Parliament before it can take effect.

Firings at Justice Department create fear among career lawyers

2026-01-18

The Trump administration’s firings and departures of career lawyers at the Justice Department have left many prosecutors and judges describing fear and uncertainty about whether they could be removed for doing their jobs, according to interviews and details from firings described by The Associated Press. The upheaval has continued into Pam Bondi’s early tenure as attorney general, including the dismissal of veteran prosecutor Michael Ben’Ary after he was leading a case tied to the Kabul airport bombing. The AP reported Friday that some of those leaving or being discharged described cases being pulled back, staff shortages and backlogs, and a broader erosion of institutional experience.

Tension and chaos take hold during Trump’s Minneapolis-area immigration crackdown

2026-01-18

Minneapolis and surrounding suburbs have seen intensified clashes and disruptions amid a Trump administration immigration crackdown, known as Operation Metro Surge, with federal convoys moving through the area as protesters gather and tensions spike at night. The surge, which AP described as involving more than 2,000 officers, has put city and state officials and activists in direct conflict with federal enforcement teams. In one recent case tied to the crackdown, a mother of three, Renee Good, was killed in a Jan. 7 confrontation, according to federal officials and city and state officials.

Greenland dispute echoes decades of US-Europe friction since World War II

2026-01-18

The dispute between the United States and Europe over Greenland's future is the latest in a long series of deep disagreements that have strained the trans-Atlantic alliance since World War II, the Associated Press reported Saturday. From the Suez crisis to the invasion of Iraq to Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine, American and European allies have repeatedly clashed over strategy, sovereignty, and the use of force — rifts that tested, without severing, the partnership that anchors Western security.

Canada cuts EV tariffs for China as Trump trade pressure reshapes deals

2026-01-18

Canada broke with the United States and slashed its 100% import tax on Chinese electric vehicles, striking a trade deal that it said lowers Chinese tariffs on Canadian exports, including canola. The shift, announced Friday, comes as U.S. President Donald Trump renews broad tariff pressure on trade partners and as Canada prepares for negotiations tied to the renewal of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

Trump links Greenland stance to not winning 2024 Nobel Peace Prize

2026-01-18

U.S. President Donald Trump linked his hard-line stance toward Greenland to the fact that he did not receive the Nobel Peace Prize last year, according to a text message released to Norway’s prime minister. In the message, Trump said he no longer felt “a duty to think only about peace” and argued that the world was not safe without “complete and absolute” U.S. control of Greenland.

Trump tariffs threat over Greenland drives EU to seek security independence

2026-01-18

BRUSSELS — European Union leaders are describing U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning that he will impose new tariffs on countries opposing American control of Greenland as “intimidation,” “threats” and “blackmail,” as Europe seeks to reduce reliance on U.S. security. The warning has come as European leaders manage concerns about an increasingly hostile Russia and continue efforts to sustain support for Ukraine.

Trump threatens tariffs over Greenland, drawing strong EU and NATO pushback

2026-01-18

U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of 10% tariffs against European countries over Greenland sparked a sharp rebuke from Denmark and other allies on Sunday, warning the move could “undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral.” In a joint statement, the countries said troops sent to Greenland for a Danish-led NATO training exercise “pose no threat to anyone” and urged Washington to stay engaged in dialogue.

White House Greenland tariff threats spur EU plans for anti-coercion response

2026-01-18

The European Union is weighing possible countermeasures after the White House threatened tariffs over Denmark’s and other European countries’ opposition to U.S. control of Greenland. U.S. President Donald Trump said Saturday that he would impose a 10% import tax starting in February on goods from eight European nations and raise it to 25% on June 1 if the U.S. does not secure “the Complete and Total purchase of Greenland.” European leaders sent representatives to Brussels for an emergency meeting after condemning the proposal as economic coercion.

Abortion dispute threatens deal to revive ACA health care subsidies

2026-01-18

A bipartisan group in the Senate and House is working to revive federal health care subsidies that expired at the start of the year, but disagreements over abortion coverage are making compromise difficult. The effort has faced a renewed risk of stalling as negotiations centered on abortion rules—particularly for people buying plans through Affordable Care Act options—have proved hard to resolve.

Communist Party Congress opens in Vietnam as leadership and policy set

2026-01-18

Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party opened its National Congress on Monday in Hanoi, a five-yearly meeting that will decide the party’s top leadership and set the country’s broad policy course. The congress, attended by 1,586 delegates, will elect about 200 members to the Central Committee, which then appoints 17 to 19 members to the Politburo.

EU, Israel, Russia, Belarus invited to Trump’s Board of Peace

2026-01-18

U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace” that would oversee the next phase of the Gaza peace plan has sent invitations to Israel, EU leaders, Russia, Belarus and other countries, an Israeli official said Monday. France said it does not plan to join “at this stage,” while Trump said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has differences with the U.S. but that relations would not be harmed. In a separate response, Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich dismissed the effort as a “raw deal” and called for it to be canceled.

Gaza’s yellow line keeps Palestinians in fear after ceasefire buffer

2026-01-18

Israel’s military has drawn a “yellow line” in Gaza after a ceasefire in October, but Palestinians say the markers are at times invisible or placed differently than maps show. The Associated Press reported that Israeli troops have killed Palestinians near the line, including children, and that residents live in fear of being shot after crossing or lingering close to it. The reporting is based on Gaza Health Ministry figures and interviews with Palestinians and Israeli military statements.

Gunmen abduct over 150 worshippers in Nigeria church attacks

2026-01-18

Gunmen abducted more than 150 worshippers in simultaneous attacks on three churches in northwest Nigeria on Sunday, a state lawmaker told The Associated Press. The attacks took place in Kurmin Wali, in the Kajuru area of Kaduna state, during services and a Mass.

Hawaii gun law faces Supreme Court scrutiny over private property ban

2026-01-18

Hawaii’s gun laws are set to face U.S. Supreme Court scrutiny Tuesday, as the court considers a narrow question about carrying firearms on private property open to the public. The case centers on whether Hawaii can prohibit guns on locations such as stores and hotels unless the owner explicitly allows it. The challenge was brought by Maui residents, and the state has argued for enforcing the restrictions.

Supreme Court to weigh geofence warrants for cellphone location history

2026-01-18

The Supreme Court agreed to decide the constitutionality of “geofence” search warrants that collect cellphone location history, a tool used to identify people near crime scenes. The case grew out of a Virginia robbery investigation in which police obtained location data from Google to help arrest Okello Chatrie.

Thousands march in Greenland to oppose Trump threats over island

2026-01-18

Thousands of Greenlanders marched in snow-covered streets in Nuuk on Saturday to oppose U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to take control of the Arctic island territory, participants said. They chanted “Greenland is not for sale” as a protest march reached the U.S. consulate after leaving Nuuk’s downtown area. Moments later, Trump announced he will impose a 10% import tax starting in February on goods from eight European countries that opposed U.S. control of Greenland.

Trump names Gaza ceasefire plan committees, including board-led oversight

2026-01-18

President Donald Trump’s administration has announced members of a new Palestinian committee to run day-to-day affairs in Gaza, along with an executive committee of international experts to supervise efforts tied to a U.S. Gaza ceasefire plan, the White House said. The appointments also include an international stabilization force and steps that the White House said would include disarmament of Hamas and reconstruction of Gaza. The announcement came as the plan entered what the White House described as its second phase.

Trump’s second-term year: Qatari Air Force One deal, Greenland push, autopen probe

2026-01-18

President Donald Trump, nearly a year into his second term, has put forward or pursued a series of ambitious initiatives ranging from a new Qatari-supplied Air Force One to efforts that would change the status of Greenland. The Associated Press review also found progress on reopening Alcatraz as a detention site, investigating alleged autopen misuse, and advancing plans for a White House ballroom after the East Wing is torn down.

Trump threatens to use U.S. Insurrection Act amid Minneapolis protests

2026-01-18

Donald Trump has threatened to use the 19th-century Insurrection Act, a U.S. law that allows the president to deploy federal troops inside the country, to address protests in Minnesota. The Associated Press examined how presidents have used the law before and what constitutional and historical parallels legal experts say apply to the Minneapolis situation.

SoCal Edison sues LA County, water agencies and SoCalGas over Eaton Fire missteps

2026-01-18

Southern California Edison filed cross-complaints in Los Angeles Superior Court on Friday, accusing Los Angeles County, seven water agencies and the Southern California Gas Company of a series of failures the utility says made last year's Eaton Fire more deadly. The filings shift blame to other parties even as investigators continue to examine evidence suggesting that one of Edison's own idled power lines may have ignited the blaze.

Death toll reaches 10 as Guatemala declares state of emergency

2026-01-18

Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo declared a 30-day state of emergency after suspected gang attacks on police killed at least 10 people, according to authorities and the government gazette. The violence began Saturday when inmates seized control of three prisons and took 43 guards hostage, then spread Sunday into police assaults across Guatemala City.

Mozambique floods displace over 300,000; Chapo cancels Davos trip

2026-01-18

Flooding in Mozambique has displaced more than 300,000 people in Gaza province, the governor said Monday. Mozambique’s president, Daniel Chapo, has canceled his trip to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, because of severe flooding affecting central and southern parts of the country.

'60 Minutes' airs CECOT deportation story that CBS editor had pulled in December

2026-01-18

CBS News' "60 Minutes" on Sunday aired correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi's report on U.S. deportees held in El Salvador's CECOT prison — a story that CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss had pulled from the Dec. 21 episode, setting off an internal dispute that Alfonsi described to colleagues as "not an editorial decision" but "a political one." Weiss, who founded the Free Press website and had no previous television news experience before her appointment to the top CBS News editorial role, had argued the story did not sufficiently reflect the administration's viewpoint and did not advance reporting that other news organizations had already published, according to the Associated Press.

Trump administration delays wage garnishment for student loan borrowers

2026-01-18

The Trump administration is delaying its plans to withhold wages and federal payments from some federal student loan borrowers in default, the U.S. Department of Education said Friday. The department said involuntary collection efforts would remain on hold as it finalizes new repayment plans that are scheduled to be available starting July 1.

US Catholic cardinals urge Trump administration to rethink foreign policy

2026-01-18

Three U.S. Catholic cardinals urged the Trump administration to use a “moral compass” in foreign policy, warning that recent U.S. military action in Venezuela, threats to acquire Greenland and cuts to foreign aid could cause “vast suffering” instead of peace. In a joint statement on Monday, Cardinals Blase Cupich of Chicago, Robert McElroy of Washington and Joseph Tobin of Newark, New Jersey, said the current debate over Washington’s foreign policy is “mired in ‘polarization, partisanship, and narrow economic and social interests.’”

White House social posts scrutinized amid Minneapolis immigration crackdown

2026-01-18

The Trump administration’s posts tied to its immigration crackdown in Minneapolis have drawn criticism, with critics saying some of the messaging borrows imagery and phrases popular with far-right and white supremacist groups. An Associated Press review of posts from the Department of Homeland Security and other administration entities found references that users on social media compared to Nazi slogans and far-right memes.

'60 Minutes' airs report on Trump deportations pulled in December

2026-01-18

“60 Minutes” aired a report Sunday about Trump administration deportations that the show had abruptly pulled from its lineup a month earlier, CBS News said. The segment focused on migrants sent to El Salvador’s CECOT prison, with correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi reporting that attempts to secure on-camera interviews with Trump administration officials were rebuffed. The dispute over the story’s handling had become public after an earlier version of the segment appeared online.

Pentagon puts 1,500 soldiers on standby for possible Minnesota deployment

2026-01-18

The Pentagon has ordered about 1,500 active-duty soldiers to be ready for possible deployment to Minnesota, where federal authorities have been conducting a large-scale immigration enforcement operation, two defense officials said Sunday. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military plans. They said the Army's 11th Airborne Division — an Alaska-based unit that specializes in arctic conditions — has received prepare-to-deploy orders for two infantry battalions.

Abigail Spanberger wears white for Virginia inauguration, citing tradition

2026-01-18

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger, the first woman to serve as governor of the state, wore white for her inauguration on Saturday. The Associated Press reported that the color was chosen as a nod to the women’s suffrage movement and that Spanberger said in a separate interview she would not continue the state’s tradition of morning coats.

ICE enforcement empties Minneapolis Somali businesses as fear spreads

2026-01-18

Three weeks after the Trump administration launched "Operation Metro Surge," vendors at Karmel Mall in south Minneapolis sat alone in empty storefronts on a recent afternoon, waiting for customers who were not coming. Businesses at the sprawling complex of more than 100 shops — a commercial and community anchor for the city's Somali community — have lost foot traffic sharply since federal immigration enforcement intensified across the region, owners and workers said.

New Hampshire Episcopal bishop warns clergy to prepare for 'new era of martyrdom'

2026-01-18

A New Hampshire Episcopal bishop drew national attention this month after warning his clergy to finalize their wills and prepare for a "new era of martyrdom," following the fatal shooting of a Minnesota woman by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer. Bishop Rob Hirschfeld of the Episcopal Church of New Hampshire delivered the remarks at a vigil honoring Renee Good, who was shot and killed Jan. 7 behind the wheel of her vehicle by an ICE officer. The Trump administration has defended the officer's actions, saying he fired in self-defense while standing in front of Good's vehicle as it began to move forward; Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz have disputed that account based on videos of the confrontation.

Fannie Mae airs AI-cloned Trump voice ad as administration pushes housing agenda

2026-01-18

Fannie Mae aired a one-minute advertisement Sunday featuring an AI-generated voice of President Donald Trump, created with his administration's permission, as the White House escalates its push on housing affordability. A disclaimer in the video identifies the narration as AI-produced. The White House did not respond to a request for comment.

Anti-doomscrolling influencers challenge social media overuse

2026-01-18

Content creators in the United States are posting videos on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube that interrupt users' scroll sessions to encourage them to close the app — a strategy researchers say may help plant early seeds of awareness about excessive platform use, even as academics debate whether heavy social media use constitutes addiction.

Iran’s Khamenei brands Trump a “criminal” over protest support

2026-01-18

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called U.S. President Donald Trump a “criminal” after Trump backed protesters during unrest that began Dec. 28, Iran’s state television broadcast on Saturday. Khamenei also blamed protesters for deaths he said numbered in the “several thousand,” and accused the U.S. of seeking domination over Iran’s economic and political resources. Trump responded by saying Khamenei “should run his country properly and stop killing people.”

Anti-doomscrolling creators challenge “social media addiction” idea

2026-01-18

In an effort to get people to log off, social media creators are posting videos that interrupt endless scrolling with reminders about how much time they spend on apps. Olivia Yokubonis, who posts online as “Olivia Unplugged,” has built an audience that welcomes the disruption—though some viewers respond with snark.

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez was DEA 'priority' target

2026-01-18

Donald Trump’s announcement of Nicolás Maduro’s capture as a first step toward drug-trafficking charges in the United States cast Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, as a potential partner. But the Associated Press reported that U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration records show Rodríguez has been on the agency’s radar for years, including being labeled a “priority target” in 2022. AP said the files date to at least 2018 and include allegations and named associates that U.S. authorities have not publicly charged Rodríguez over.

DEA target status for Delcy Rodríguez dating to 2022

2026-01-18

The Associated Press reported that U.S. drug enforcement records dating back at least to 2018 show Delcy Rodríguez, a Venezuelan interim president and former vice president, has been under scrutiny by the Drug Enforcement Administration for years. The report said the DEA labeled her a “priority target” in 2022 and that the agency has tracked allegations that range from drug trafficking to gold smuggling.

Army orders 1,500 soldiers on standby for possible Minnesota deployment

2026-01-18

The Pentagon ordered about 1,500 active-duty soldiers to be ready in case the U.S. sends them to Minnesota amid a federal immigration enforcement operation, two defense officials said Sunday. The soldiers would be deployed if President Donald Trump invokes the Insurrection Act, a rarely used 19th-century law that can authorize active-duty troops for law enforcement, the officials said. In an emailed statement, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the military is prepared to carry out orders from the commander in chief if called upon.

Bangladesh journalists demand protection after attacks on major newspapers

2026-01-18

Dhaka-based journalists, editors and media owners in Bangladesh demanded protection from authorities on Saturday after mobs attacked two leading national dailies in December, prompting fears for press freedom ahead of elections next month. The Editors Council and the Newspapers Owners Association of Bangladesh held a joint conference where participants called for authorities to uphold the free press as tensions rise.

Bulgaria’s president says he is stepping down

2026-01-18

Bulgaria’s left-leaning President Rumen Radev announced Monday that he plans to resign from the mostly ceremonial post. In a televised address, Radev said he will formally submit his resignation to the Constitutional Court on Tuesday.

Canada-China ties improve under Carney, with Trump’s shadow in Beijing

2026-01-18

Canadian leader Mark Carney met China’s Xi Jinping in Beijing this week as Canada sought to re-establish ties with China after nearly a decade of stalled relations. The agreements were framed as preliminary, but the visit underscored the influence of Donald Trump and the uncertainty surrounding Washington’s priorities.

Central African Republic council confirms Touadéra election win

2026-01-18

The Central African Republic’s Constitutional Council on Monday confirmed President Faustin-Archange Touadéra’s election victory and granted him a third term, rejecting an opposition appeal alleging fraud and irregularities. The council said Touadéra secured 77.9% of the vote, while his main challenger, Anicet Georges Dologuélé, received 13.1%. Dologuélé’s campaign had asked the council to annul the election after challenging the results.

Climate activist says Trump’s renewable stance could raise power bills

2026-01-18

Longtime climate activist Bill McKibben said in Vermont this week that President Donald Trump’s stance against solar and other low-cost green energy will push electricity bills higher and could affect GOP fortunes in the 2026 elections. The Associated Press reported McKibben made the comments after installing a new set of plug-in solar panels on his home, adding to systems he has used for about 25 years.

Communities honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day amid adverse political climate

2026-01-18

Communities across the United States marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday with parades, panels and service projects, as political and policy tensions related to civil rights and immigration enforcement shaped how some groups planned the holiday. The 40th federal observance came a year after Donald Trump’s second inauguration, with many speakers at King’s home church in Atlanta urging resistance to what they described as efforts to roll back civil rights initiatives.

DOJ vows to press charges after activists disrupt St. Paul church

2026-01-18

The U.S. Department of Justice said it is investigating protesters in Minnesota who disrupted services at a church in St. Paul where a local U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement official reportedly serves as a pastor. DOJ Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon said the conduct interfered with worship and could violate federal criminal and civil laws.

Family of Iranian protester searched for her body in a pile of corpses

2026-01-18

Robina Aminian’s family said she was killed during nationwide protests in Iran and that her mother later searched for her body in overcrowded morgues, AP reported. The family said they buried Aminian, a Kurdish woman studying fashion in Tehran, in a roadside pit after authorities demanded money to release the body. Amnesty International and human rights organizations described broader difficulties for relatives trying to retrieve and bury loved ones amid limited access and security crackdowns.

FDA commissioner's expedited drug review plan sparks alarm at agency

2026-01-18

The Food and Drug Administration is facing legal, scientific and ethics concerns over a new expedited drug review program that aims to speed up approval for medicines tied to President Donald Trump’s administration, according to current and former agency staff members. The concerns center on who has the authority to sign off on approvals cleared through the “National Priority Voucher” program and how the expedited pathway is being applied for deadlines, staff said.

Guinea’s Doumbouya sworn in as president after election win

2026-01-18

Gen. Mamadi Doumbouya was sworn in Saturday as president of Guinea after winning last year’s presidential election, cementing his transition from a 2021 coup leader to an elected head of state, according to the Associated Press. The oath was taken in a new 55,000-seat stadium in the suburbs of Conakry, the capital, before African leaders and representatives of the African Union Commission and ECOWAS, the wire service said.

Hackers disrupt Iran state TV to show exiled prince amid crackdown

2026-01-18

Hackers disrupted Iranian state television satellite transmissions early Monday, airing footage supporting exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi and urging security forces not to “point your weapons at the people.” The Associated Press reported the disruption followed nationwide protests that Iran’s authorities have met with a crackdown that activists said has killed at least 4,029 people.

ICE crackdown puts Somali businesses in Minneapolis on edge, owners say

2026-01-18

The ICE crackdown in Minneapolis has left Somali business owners and some of their customers afraid to enter shops or travel, according to interviews included in an Associated Press report published Jan. 18, 2026. Owners at Karmel Mall in south Minneapolis described shuttered storefronts, fewer customers, and mounting financial pressure as enforcement activity in the city expanded.

IMAX documentary showcases Ohio’s environmental comeback story

2026-01-18

Ohio is using an IMAX film to highlight its wildlife conservation work and the “restorative power” of outdoor recreation, the Associated Press reported. The documentary, “Ohio: Wild at Heart,” features the state’s top-ranked park system and is drawing crowds at science museums, with plans to bring it into classrooms next year.

Iranians cross into Turkey to bypass internet blackouts

2026-01-18

Iranians are crossing into Turkey’s eastern Van province in short trips to get around largely blocked internet service in Iran, Associated Press reported. The communications blackout began Jan. 8 amid mass protests and a violent government crackdown that started Dec. 28, according to the report.

Iraqi forces fully take over Ain al-Asad air base after U.S. withdrawal

2026-01-18

Iraqi forces have fully taken over the Ain al-Asad air base in western Iraq after U.S. personnel withdrew, Iraqi officials said Saturday. The shift completes a drawdown agreed by Washington and Baghdad as part of the wind-down of the U.S.-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group in Iraq.

Kemi Badenoch joins protest against China mega embassy plan in London

2026-01-18

Britain’s main opposition leader Kemi Badenoch joined a protest on Saturday against China’s planned “mega embassy” in London, with a government deadline approaching to approve or block the project. Demonstrators gathered near the former Royal Mint site by Tower Bridge, chanting “no China mega embassy” as officials weigh national security concerns and diplomatic considerations.

Minneapolis family says tear gas flooded SUV during immigration crackdown

2026-01-18

A Minneapolis couple says an immigration officer rolled a tear gas canister under their SUV, flooding the vehicle with toxic fumes after the family became caught between protesters and federal officers during an immigration operation this week. The Jackson family said the incident left both parents and several of their six children, including an infant, needing hospital treatment. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said officers were responding to crowds of “rioters and agitators” and did not target the family or “their innocent children.”

Populist places second in Portugal’s presidential vote; faces Seguro in runoff

2026-01-18

Portugal’s presidential election went to a runoff after a hard-right populist leader placed second and will face center-left candidate António José Seguro in a Feb. 8 vote, according to near-complete results reported by The Associated Press. André Ventura, who founded the Chega party in 2019, won about 24% of the vote with almost all ballots counted, while Seguro led with about 31%. The winner will replace President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, whose terms end after serving the maximum two five-year terms.

Pro-Greenland protesters wear caps spoofing Trump’s MAGA slogan in Copenhagen

2026-01-18

Copenhagen and other parts of Denmark saw pro-Greenland protesters wear red baseball caps spoofing Donald Trump’s MAGA hats, with one version reading “Make America Go Away,” during demonstrations this weekend. The caps have spread on social media and at rallies as European governments have backed Denmark over concerns about U.S. threats to seize the Arctic territory.

Protesters for and against Minneapolis immigration crackdown face off

2026-01-18

Hundreds of counterprotesters confronted a small rally in support of the Trump administration’s latest immigration crackdown in Minneapolis on Saturday, as Minnesota’s governor’s office announced the National Guard was mobilized and ready to assist. The confrontation followed days of protests in the Twin Cities over a Department of Homeland Security operation that brought more than 2,000 federal officers to Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Safety concerns prompt midsize cities to reconvert 1-way streets

2026-01-18

U.S. cities are increasingly turning some one-way streets back into two-way roads, citing concerns that the layouts can encourage speeding and complicate navigation for pedestrians and cyclists. The shift is underway in places including Indianapolis, Louisville, Kentucky, and Lynchburg, Virginia, according to transportation planners and officials.

Sheinbaum tells Mexico U.S. military moves near territory needed assurances

2026-01-18

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum moved to calm concerns after the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration warned U.S. aircraft to “exercise caution” over the eastern Pacific near Mexico and other parts of the Americas, citing “military activities.” She said her government waited for “written” assurance that there would be no U.S. military flights over Mexican territory.

Taiwan detains TV journalist, alleges bribes to leak military info to China

2026-01-18

Taiwan’s prosecutors say a television reporter was detained after an order to hold him over allegations that he bribed active and retired military officers to provide information to people in mainland China. The journalist, identified by a court filing as “Lin” and by CTi TV as Lin Chen-you, was detained along with five officers, prosecutors said.

Thousands of students protest in Serbia, vow new push against Vucic

2026-01-18

Thousands of people rallied Saturday in Serbia’s Novi Sad as university students said they will continue their protest against President Aleksandar Vucic. The students said the new stage will focus on a post-Vucic plan to curb corruption and restore the rule of law.

Trump to attend Davos as World Economic Forum weighs inequality, AI, trust

2026-01-18

Corporate executives and government leaders will gather in Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum’s four-day annual meeting beginning Tuesday, with U.S. President Donald Trump set to attend as major questions hang over the event’s dialogue and business-forward agenda. The forum’s program will tackle issues including inequality, AI’s impact on jobs and what organizers call a more competitive, contested global landscape.

U.S. diet guidelines urge higher protein; experts question the shift

2026-01-18

The U.S. released updated federal dietary guidelines that advise Americans to “prioritize protein foods at every meal” and to increase daily protein intake to as much as double previous recommendations, the Associated Press reported. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the government was “ending the war on protein.” Several nutrition experts questioned whether most people need to raise protein consumption that much and warned it could lead to higher fat intake and diabetes risk.

Uganda’s Museveni wins 7th term as Bobi Wine rejects vote amid shutdown

2026-01-18

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni won a seventh term with 71.65% of the vote, according to official results published Saturday, an election his youthful challenger Bobi Wine rejected. The vote was marked by a days-long internet shutdown and claims of rigging and fraud from the opposition, led by Wine, who called for peaceful protests.

Vance and Rubio to lead U.S. delegation for 2026 Winter Games opening

2026-01-18

U.S. Vice President JD Vance will lead an American delegation to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy and attend the opening ceremony, the White House said Saturday. The White House said Vance will be joined by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, second lady Usha Vance, U.S. Ambassador Tilman Fertitta and a group of Olympic gold medalists.

What's open and closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day

2026-01-18

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is an official holiday honoring the civil rights leader’s birthday and legacy, and federal and state government offices are closed Monday. Courts and most schools are also closed, while banks and the U.S. stock market remain closed until Tuesday.

What to know about the World Economic Forum meeting in Davos

2026-01-18

DAVOS, Switzerland — Nearly 3,000 high-level participants are converging on Davos for the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting, bringing together business, government and other leaders, along with activists, journalists and outside observers. The forum’s main event debuted in 1971 in the Alpine ski resort town, and this year’s agenda spans more than 200 sessions.

YouTube eases monetization rules for certain “controversial” topics

2026-01-18

YouTube said it is updating guidelines for videos that advertisers define as “controversial,” allowing more creators to earn full ad revenue when they address sensitive issues in a non-graphic way. The changes took effect Tuesday and YouTube said dramatized content and journalistic coverage can be eligible if they avoid graphic descriptions or imagery.

Canada agrees to cut EV tariffs in deal with China after talks in Beijing

2026-01-17

Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada will cut its 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles in exchange for lower tariffs on Canadian farm products after two days of meetings with Chinese leaders in Beijing. Carney said the deal includes an initial annual cap of 49,000 Chinese EVs entering Canada at a tariff rate of 6.1%, rising to about 70,000 over five years.

Trump suggests he wants Kevin Hassett to stay in White House as Fed chair search continues

2026-01-17

President Donald Trump on Friday said he would like to keep his top economic adviser, Kevin Hassett, at the White House rather than potentially nominating him to replace Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, whose term ends May 15. Speaking at a White House event, Trump told Hassett, “I actually want to keep you where you are, if you want to know the truth.”

Trump's Board of Peace takes shape with ambitions to rival the UN

2026-01-17

President Donald Trump sent invitation letters Friday to multiple world leaders asking them to become "founding members" of a Board of Peace that the Trump administration says could extend well beyond ending the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza to address other global conflicts — an ambition analysts say would challenge the United Nations' seven-decade role as the world's primary international forum.

Federal judge bars agents from detaining, tear-gassing peaceful protesters in Minneapolis

2026-01-17

A federal judge in Minnesota ruled Friday that immigration officers conducting enforcement operations in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area may not detain or use tear gas against peaceful observers who are not obstructing their activities. U.S. District Judge Kate Menendez issued the ruling in a case filed in December on behalf of six Minnesota activists represented by the American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota. The ruling came as federal agents and demonstrators have repeatedly clashed since the Trump administration launched what officials have described as its largest recent immigration enforcement operation in the area.

Spanberger sworn in as Virginia's first female governor

2026-01-17

Democrat Abigail Spanberger was sworn in Saturday as Virginia's 75th governor and the first woman to hold the office in the state's 250-year history as a commonwealth, succeeding Republican Glenn Youngkin after defeating his lieutenant governor, Winsome Earle-Sears. The ceremony took place amid a cold drizzle at the state Capitol in Richmond.

Tennessee judge orders expanded media access to state executions

2026-01-17

A Davidson County chancellor ruled Friday that Tennessee prison officials must allow journalists to observe lethal injection executions from the moment condemned inmates are restrained on a gurney through the official pronouncement of death, granting a temporary injunction sought by a coalition of news organizations that argued the state's restrictive viewing protocols violated constitutional press-access rights.

Federal immigration surge brings daily clashes, community disruption to Twin Cities

2026-01-17

MINNEAPOLIS — More than 2,000 federal officers are carrying out Operation Metro Surge, the Trump administration's largest immigration enforcement action yet, in and around Minneapolis and St. Paul, producing daily confrontations between agents and protesters that have become routine since an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer shot and killed Renee Good, a 37-year-old American citizen and mother of three, on Jan. 7. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, a Democrat, said his city — with roughly 600 police officers — has been overwhelmed by the federal deployment. "We don't use the word 'invasion' lightly," Frey told reporters. "What we are seeing is thousands — plural, thousands — of federal agents coming into our city." The surge has shuttered businesses in immigrant neighborhoods, kept children home from school, and produced nightly scenes of tear gas and flash grenades as federal officers disperse crowds gathered outside a compound near Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport that houses an immigration court and government offices.

Venezuelan opposition leader Machado says she expects an orderly democratic transition

2026-01-17

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said Friday she is “profoundly, profoundly confident” that her country will have an “orderly transition” to democracy. She spoke at the Heritage Foundation in Washington after meeting with President Donald Trump, an interaction that comes as the U.S. backs acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez for now.

Canada cuts Chinese EV tariffs, wins canola access in deal that risks US trade pact

2026-01-17

Canada slashed its 100% import tax on Chinese electric vehicles and secured sharply lower Chinese tariffs on canola seeds in a trade deal struck Friday in Beijing, as Prime Minister Mark Carney moved to diversify Canada's economic partnerships amid sustained U.S. tariff pressure. The agreement reduces Canada's EV tariff to 6.1% for a quota of 49,000 Chinese vehicles annually — rising to about 70,000 in five years — while China cut its tariff on Canadian canola from 84% to 15%.

Thousands march in Nuuk as Trump announces tariffs over Greenland opposition

2026-01-17

Thousands of Greenlanders marched Saturday from downtown Nuuk to the U.S. Consulate, chanting "Greenland is not for sale" and waving their national flag in what witnesses described as the largest protest in the capital against U.S. President Donald Trump's stated ambition to seize the Arctic island. As the march concluded, Trump announced from his Florida home that the United States would impose a 10% import tax, beginning in February, on goods from eight European countries over their opposition to American control of Greenland.

Trump threatens 10% tariffs on eight European nations over Greenland opposition

2026-01-17

President Donald Trump announced Saturday that eight European nations will face a 10 percent import tariff beginning in February because of their opposition to U.S. control of Greenland, prompting European Union leaders to warn of a "dangerous downward spiral" in transatlantic relations. Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland would face the initial levy, Trump said in a Truth Social post from his golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida. The rate would climb to 25 percent on June 1 if no deal had been reached for what he called the "Complete and Total purchase of Greenland" by the United States.

Tillis breaks with Trump's advisers, not Trump, in his final Senate year

2026-01-17

Sen. Thom Tillis said he is "sick of stupid" on the Senate floor as the North Carolina Republican used the opening weeks of 2026 to rebuke senior White House aides over Greenland military threats, European tariffs, a Justice Department probe of Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, and pardons for Jan. 6 defendants who attacked police. The two-term senator, who is not seeking reelection, directed his criticism at aides rather than at President Donald Trump himself.

GOP senators rally behind Fed Chair Powell as subpoenas loom

2026-01-17

President Donald Trump’s administration has escalated its pressure campaign against the Federal Reserve, with the Justice Department serving subpoenas on the Fed, prompting Senate Republicans to rally behind Chair Jerome Powell. Republican senators said they see grounds to defend an independent central bank chair even as Powell is the subject of a legal cloud, and Powell responded by accusing the administration of using “pretexts” to pressure the Fed. The developing dispute highlights a rare split inside the president’s own party over the central bank’s independence.

Venezuela's acting president was DEA 'priority target' in 2022

2026-01-17

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez was labeled a "priority target" by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in 2022 — a designation the DEA reserves for suspects believed to have a "significant impact" on the drug trade — according to records obtained by The Associated Press and more than a half-dozen current and former U.S. law enforcement officials. The DEA has maintained an intelligence file on Rodríguez dating to at least 2018, cataloging alleged associates and allegations ranging from drug trafficking to gold smuggling, the records show. The U.S. government has never publicly accused Rodríguez of criminal wrongdoing, and she is not among the Venezuelan officials charged with drug trafficking alongside ousted President Nicolás Maduro.

Abortion dispute stalls Senate negotiations on ACA subsidy revival

2026-01-17

Bipartisan Senate negotiations over reviving federal health care subsidies that expired Jan. 1 appeared near collapse as of Jan. 17 as a dispute over abortion coverage proved intractable, according to senators involved in the talks. Republicans are seeking stronger limits on abortion coverage in Affordable Care Act marketplace plans; Democrats are firmly opposed to any changes. The impasse threatens to leave millions of Americans paying sharply higher premiums — the average subsidized enrollee faces more than double the monthly premium costs for 2026, according to KFF, the health care research nonprofit.

National Guard troops to stay in Washington through end of 2026

2026-01-17

National Guard troops will remain on the streets of Washington, D.C., until the end of 2026, according to a memo reviewed by The Associated Press. The memo, signed by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and dated Wednesday, said “the conditions of the mission” warranted extending the deployment past the end of next month to continue supporting President Donald Trump’s “ongoing efforts to restore law and order.”

White House names Gaza oversight leaders as committee meets in Cairo

2026-01-17

The White House released names of some officials involved in overseeing next steps in Gaza after a Palestinian committee set to govern the territory under U.S. supervision met for the first time in Cairo on Friday, according to the announcement. The committee’s leader, Ali Shaath, an engineer and former Palestinian Authority official from Gaza, said he would work to improve conditions quickly, with reconstruction and recovery expected to take about three years.

Tear gas floods Minneapolis family's SUV; infant and two children hospitalized

2026-01-17

A Minneapolis couple says a federal officer rolled a tear gas canister under their family's SUV on Wednesday as they tried to leave a confrontation between protesters and immigration enforcement officers in north Minneapolis, flooding the vehicle with fumes that sent a 6-month-old infant and two other children to the hospital. The family said they were not demonstrating against the federal operation — they had been driving home from a basketball game when they were caught between the two sides.

Trump administration posts draw scrutiny for far-right imagery amid immigration sweep

2026-01-17

The Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Labor, and the White House posted social media content in January that drew criticism for borrowing phrases, images, and music tied to far-right and white nationalist movements, as the Trump administration intensified its immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis. The administration said the posts were misread; critics and researchers said the references were deliberate.

Venezuelan opposition leader Machado gave Nobel medal to Trump

2026-01-17

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said she handed her Nobel Peace Prize medal to U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday, after Trump publicly questioned her credibility. The Nobel Institute has said Machado could not give the award to Trump.

CIA director Ratcliffe meets Venezuela's acting president Rodríguez in Caracas

2026-01-17

CIA Director John Ratcliffe traveled to Caracas on Thursday and met for two hours with Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodríguez, becoming the highest-ranking Trump administration official to visit the South American country since a U.S. military operation captured former leader Nicolás Maduro roughly two weeks ago, according to a U.S. government official who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. The meeting came at the urging of President Donald Trump and was intended to demonstrate U.S. desire for a better relationship with Venezuela, the official said. It occurred the same day Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Trump at the White House, even as he has effectively sidelined her.

Trump pardons repeat fraudster, former governor linked to $3.5M super PAC donor

2026-01-17

President Donald Trump issued 13 pardons and eight commutations Thursday, including one for a woman convicted of fraud in two separate federal schemes — the first under a sentence Trump himself had commuted in 2021 — and another for a former Puerto Rico governor whose case involves a Venezuelan banker whose daughter donated $3.5 million to Trump's MAGA Inc. super PAC. A 14th pardon was announced Friday for a health care executive sentenced to 42 months in prison for insider trading.

AI health gadgets at CES draw skepticism over accuracy and privacy

2026-01-17

LAS VEGAS — Health technology showcased at the annual CES trade show promised consumers new ways to track and interpret personal health, from smart scales to hormone and perimenopause monitors. But experts questioned the accuracy of some AI-driven products and warned that data privacy safeguards may not cover consumer devices as federal oversight shifts. During CES, the Food and Drug Administration also announced plans to relax regulations for certain so-called “low-risk” general wellness products.

Counterprotesters rout pro-ICE rally in Minneapolis; National Guard stages nearby

2026-01-17

Hundreds of counterprotesters in Minneapolis drove off a small pro-ICE rally on Saturday organized by conservative influencer Jake Lang, who had announced on social media plans to burn a Quran on City Hall steps, according to the Associated Press. Lang appeared to have sustained bruises and scrapes to his head as he left the scene; it was not clear whether he carried out his stated plan.

US cities reverse one-way street designs to improve safety and downtown vitality

2026-01-17

Transportation planners across the United States have been reconverting one-way streets to two-way traffic flows, reversing a mid-20th-century redesign that prioritized suburban commuters over walkable downtowns. Indianapolis completed conversions on two major corridors last year and has budgeted an estimated $60 million for 10 additional projects, according to city officials. Louisville, Lynchburg, Virginia, Austin, Texas, and other cities are pursuing similar reversals, citing research showing one-way configurations create unpredictable hazards for pedestrians at shared intersections.

Vance and Rubio to lead US delegation to 2026 Winter Olympics; Trump not attending

2026-01-17

Vice President JD Vance will lead the U.S. delegation to the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony in Milan, Italy, the White House announced Saturday. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, second lady Usha Vance, U.S. Ambassador Tilman Fertitta, and a group of Olympic gold medalists will accompany him. President Donald Trump is not on the delegation list.

Trump's second term at one year: promises kept, stalled and shelved

2026-01-17

President Donald Trump said this week that he has "kept all my promises and much more," addressing a Detroit audience as his administration approaches the one-year mark of his second term. An Associated Press review published Friday traced the status of his most prominent commitments, finding outcomes that span partial execution, legal obstacles and quiet withdrawal from public discussion. Among the pledges still in progress: acquiring Greenland, which Denmark has said it will not cede; reopening Alcatraz as an immigration detention facility; and completing a Qatari-donated Boeing 747 for use as Air Force One, a project the Air Force says may run past Trump's departure from office. Among those that have faded: sending tens of thousands of migrants to Guantanamo Bay, a commitment that reached roughly 500 detainees before declining and at times reaching zero; and transforming Gaza into what Trump called a "Riviera of the Middle East," a proposal Arab nations rejected and one Trump no longer raises publicly.

McKibben predicts rising electricity bills will define 2026 elections for GOP

2026-01-17

Climate activist Bill McKibben predicted this week that rising U.S. electricity prices will become the defining pocketbook issue of the 2026 midterm elections, drawing a direct comparison to the food inflation that cost Democrats in 2024. McKibben spoke in Ripton, Vermont, shortly after installing his fourth solar panel system on his home, as federal clean energy tax credits expired and the Trump administration continued to restrict offshore wind development. National average electricity costs rose from 15.94 cents per kilowatt-hour when President Donald Trump took office in January 2025 to 17.98 cents in October — a 12.8% increase in 10 months that exceeded the rate of increase over the prior two years combined, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

DEA labeled Venezuela's acting president a priority drug target in 2022, AP documents show

2026-01-17

The Drug Enforcement Administration labeled Delcy Rodríguez, now Venezuela's acting president, a "priority target" in 2022 — a designation the agency reserves for suspects believed to have significant impact on drug trafficking — according to documents obtained by The Associated Press and statements from more than half a dozen current and former U.S. law enforcement officials. The disclosure comes as President Donald Trump has positioned Rodríguez as Washington's preferred partner for stabilizing Venezuela following the capture of Nicolás Maduro.

Banks face Trump's Jan. 20 credit card rate cap deadline with no clear answers

2026-01-17

With President Donald Trump's self-imposed Jan. 20 deadline for a 10% credit card interest rate cap days away, banks, consumer advocates, and members of Congress remained uncertain Friday about what the White House has planned — or whether any enforcement mechanism exists. The White House has not specified what consequences, if any, credit card companies will face if they do not comply.

231 Venezuelan migrants deported from US arrive in Caracas

2026-01-17

A first flight carrying 231 Venezuelan migrants deported from the U.S. city of Phoenix arrived at an airport outside Caracas on Friday, after Washington captured former President Nicolás Maduro and moved him to New York to face drug trafficking charges, according to Venezuelan officials. The Eastern Airlines plane marked the resumption of direct deportation air transfers after the U.S. suspended them in mid-December, the Associated Press reported.

Brazil’s Lula hails EU-Mercosur deal ahead of Paraguay signing

2026-01-17

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said the EU-Mercosur free-trade agreement would be signed in Paraguay on Saturday while he decided not to attend the ceremony, according to remarks Friday. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President António Costa also spoke as the deal moves toward formal signing.

California counties face new hoops to qualify for homelessness funds

2026-01-17

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s administration and the state Legislature are tightening requirements counties and cities must meet to receive homelessness money, putting new focus on local encampment rules and housing planning. The changes are aimed at the state’s Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention program, which provides the main source of state funds used by counties and cities to address homelessness. The proposal and legislative negotiations come as local governments say the updated application process could slow access to housing funds.

California protester says he was blinded in one eye and life is changed

2026-01-17

A California protester says he was blinded in one eye by a projectile fired by a federal officer during a Jan. 9 demonstration outside a federal immigration building in Santa Ana. Kaden Rummler, 21, said he underwent six hours of surgery after the injury, which also left metal and a nickel-sized piece of plastic lodged in his skull.

DOJ investigates whether Walz and Frey impeded immigration enforcement

2026-01-17

The U.S. Justice Department is investigating whether Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey impeded federal immigration enforcement through public statements, two people familiar with the matter told The Associated Press on Jan. 16. The investigation is focused on potential violations of a conspiracy statute, the people said.

Federal judge lets Virginia offshore wind resume as other cases lift pauses

2026-01-17

A federal judge ruled Friday that work on a Virginia offshore wind project could resume, the third such decision this week against the Trump administration’s pause on offshore wind leasing. The ruling allows Dominion Energy Virginia’s Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project to continue while the company’s legal challenge proceeds.

Juez permite seguir Empire Wind mientras evalúa orden de Trump

2026-01-17

Un juez federal permitió el jueves que el proyecto de energía eólica marina Empire Wind en Nueva York reanude la construcción mientras considera una orden del gobierno del presidente Donald Trump para suspenderlo. El fallo, dictado por el juez de distrito Carl J. Nichols, fue una victoria para Equinor, el desarrollador del proyecto.

Michigan hunters can use electronic kill tags starting March 1

2026-01-17

Michigan hunters will be able to use electronic kill tags for certain animals starting March 1, after the state Natural Resources Commission approved the optional digital tags this week. Hunters will validate kills through the Hunt Fish mobile app instead of displaying paper tags for deer, bobcat, bear, fisher, marten and otter.

Mexico’s Sheinbaum cites cartel crackdown ‘compelling results’ after Trump threats

2026-01-17

Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum said Friday that Mexico’s efforts to crack down on cartels and reduce migration north are producing “compelling results,” as the Trump administration signals potential new steps against trafficking groups. The remarks came a day after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Mexico’s Foreign Secretary Juan Ramón de la Fuente issued a joint statement following a phone call agreeing that “more must be done to confront shared threats.”

Nevada has spent about $1 billion of ARPA funds, with $2.7B total

2026-01-17

Nevada agencies have spent about $1 billion of roughly $2.7 billion in flexible federal pandemic relief funds, leaving a large share unspent with about a year left before a federal “use it or lose it” deadline, according to information presented to Nevada lawmakers.

New Jersey town faces state lawsuit over alleged racial bias by former mayor

2026-01-17

A New Jersey town is facing a state lawsuit that alleges its former mayor and police officials directed officers to keep minorities out of the community. The complaint, filed by state Attorney General Matthew Platkin and the Division on Civil Rights, names former Clark Mayor Sal Bonaccorso, suspended police Chief Pedro Matos and police Director Patrick Grady as defendants, the Associated Press reported.

Republican foster care bills in West Virginia focus on response, not prevention

2026-01-17

Republican lawmakers in West Virginia arrived in Charleston for the legislative session with 16 proposed bills aimed at fixing the state’s troubled foster care system, according to researchers who reviewed the plans. The researchers said the measures are largely incremental, do not address the roots of the crisis, and are unlikely to prevent children from being removed from their families or tackle staffing shortages.

Senators question USPS rule on postmarks for mail-in ballots

2026-01-17

A group of mostly Democratic U.S. senators said Thursday that Postal Service changes could affect the postmark dates used to count mail-in ballots in states that vote largely by mail. They wrote to Postmaster General David Steiner after the agency said new policy would mean postmarks reflect when mail was handled at a processing facility rather than the day it was mailed.

Tesla gets five-week extension to respond to U.S. FSD probe

2026-01-17

Tesla has been granted a five-week extension to respond to a U.S. investigation into whether its “full self-driving” feature violates traffic laws. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a letter to Tesla that the company now has until Feb. 23 to provide information, after an original deadline of Jan. 19, 2025.

Trump renames Florida road, while administration ties more places to his name

2026-01-17

President Donald Trump marked the renaming of a 4-mile stretch of road to “Donald J. Trump Boulevard” at his Florida home on Friday, as his administration continues to put his name on federal assets and other institutions. The Associated Press reported that the latest tributes are part of a broader pattern of naming landmarks, programs and properties for Trump during his second term.

Trump says he is ready to restart US mediation between Egypt and Ethiopia

2026-01-17

President Donald Trump said he is ready to restart U.S. mediation efforts between Egypt and Ethiopia over Nile River water-sharing issues. In remarks and a letter to Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, Trump said his team understands the Nile’s importance to Egypt’s people.

Trump thanks Iran for canceling hangings of political prisoners

2026-01-17

President Donald Trump thanked Iran’s government on Friday for canceling what he said were executions of political prisoners, as he also suggested the prospect of U.S. military action against Iran was fading. Trump told reporters, “Iran canceled the hanging of over 800 people,” and added, “and I greatly respect the fact that they canceled,” before leaving the White House for his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida.

Yoon Suk Yeol sentenced to 5 years in first martial law verdict

2026-01-17

Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced to five years in prison Friday in the first verdict from eight criminal trials over his short-lived martial law decree in December 2024. The Seoul Central District Court also imposed the sentence in a case tied to allegations that he tried to prevent efforts to detain him and that he fabricated the martial law proclamation.

Trump's offhand remark upends Fed chair race, boosting Warsh over Hassett

2026-01-16

President Donald Trump said Friday he would like to keep Kevin Hassett, his top economic adviser, at the White House rather than nominate him to lead the Federal Reserve — an offhand remark at a public event that immediately upended months of White House searching for one of the most powerful financial appointments in the world. The comment shifted the odds in favor of Kevin Warsh, a former Federal Reserve governor already considered a top contender to replace current chair Jerome Powell.

Trump threatens tariffs on countries opposing U.S. control of Greenland

2026-01-16

President Donald Trump said Friday he may impose tariffs on countries that refuse to back U.S. control of Greenland, extending the economic pressure he has wielded over the months-long dispute with NATO ally Denmark. Trump made the statement during an unrelated White House event on rural health care, hours after a bipartisan Congressional delegation arrived in Copenhagen to meet with Danish and Greenlandic leaders and lower tensions over his push to acquire the semiautonomous Arctic territory.

Betsy McCaughey files for Connecticut GOP governor nomination

2026-01-16

Betsy McCaughey, a former New York lieutenant governor, filed paperwork to seek the Republican nomination for Connecticut governor, positioning her campaign to challenge Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont. McCaughey made the announcement after first declaring her run on Wednesday evening.

Supreme Court takes up Bayer appeal to block thousands of Roundup cancer lawsuits

2026-01-16

The Supreme Court agreed Friday to hear an appeal from Bayer, the global agrochemical manufacturer, seeking to block thousands of state court lawsuits that allege the company failed to warn users its Roundup weedkiller could cause cancer. The justices will consider whether the Environmental Protection Agency's approval of Roundup without a cancer warning should preempt those state-court claims.

Brazil Supreme Court transfers Bolsonaro to larger cell with outdoor area

2026-01-16

Brazil’s Supreme Court ordered former President Jair Bolsonaro moved from a federal police headquarters in Brasilia to a larger cell at the Papuda Penitentiary Complex, also in the capital, a court decision dated Thursday said. The order by Justice Alexandre de Moraes said the transfer was intended to provide “more favorable conditions” for a high-profile detainee.

Court reverses decision that freed pro-Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil

2026-01-16

A federal appeals panel reversed a lower-court decision that had released former Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Khalil from an immigration jail, putting the Trump administration one step closer to detaining and ultimately deporting him. The three-judge panel of the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Thursday that a New Jersey federal judge lacked jurisdiction to decide Khalil’s challenge at this time.

Bipartisan lawmakers propose $2.5B agency to expand critical minerals supply

2026-01-16

A bipartisan group of lawmakers proposed creating a new agency with $2.5 billion to spur production of rare earths and other critical minerals, aimed at reducing dependence on China. The proposal was introduced by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-New Hampshire, and Sen. Todd Young, R-Indiana, as the Trump administration takes steps that it says are meant to loosen China’s grip on the market.

Machado expresses confidence in Venezuelan democracy transition but offers no timetable

2026-01-16

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said Friday she is "profoundly, profoundly confident" that Venezuela will achieve a democratic transition, but she declined to set a timetable for free elections and would not say when she planned to return home. Machado spoke at the Heritage Foundation in Washington one day after presenting her Nobel Peace Prize medal to President Donald Trump at the White House, a gesture that underscored the constrained position she occupies as Trump's administration backs a Maduro loyalist over her opposition movement.

Immigration agents policing protests in Minneapolis spark safety and training concerns

2026-01-16

Federal immigration agents deployed to Minneapolis during recent protests have used what experts described as aggressive crowd-control tactics, raising concerns about officer training and public safety after the deadly Jan. 15 shooting of a woman in her car. Protesters and civil liberties advocates have sought court intervention to restrict how federal agents operate during demonstrations, including limiting chemical agents, pointing firearms at non-threatening people and interfering with lawful video recording.

Poll finds about 4 in 10 approve of Trump as economy concerns grow

2026-01-16

An AP-NORC poll finds about 4 in 10 U.S. adults approve of President Donald Trump’s performance in his second term, a figure that is virtually unchanged from spring 2025. The survey also shows lower approval for Trump on the economy and immigration, while a majority disapproves of his approach to foreign policy.

Prayer leader in Iran calls for executions over protests as Trump signals restraint

2026-01-16

Iran has returned to uneasy calm after a wave of protests and a crackdown that began Dec. 28, with a senior hard-line cleric calling for executions of detained demonstrators, according to a report Thursday. In remarks carried by Iranian state media, Ayatollah Ahmad Khatami also threatened U.S. President Donald Trump, while Trump said he respected Iran’s decision to cancel executions of more than 800 people.

AP publishes quiz on Trump's first year back in the White House

2026-01-16

The Associated Press published an interactive quiz Thursday testing readers' knowledge of President Donald Trump's first year in his second term, arriving four days before the one-year anniversary of his Jan. 20, 2025, return to the White House. The quiz covers topics including Federal Reserve policy, U.S.-Iran relations, and the Kennedy Center Honors, according to topical metadata attached to the AP article.

Powell board tenure after May raises stakes for Fed independence fight

2026-01-16

A Justice Department investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has focused attention on a question with broad implications for U.S. monetary policy: whether Powell will remain on the Fed's board of governors after his chairmanship ends May 15, or step down as nearly all of his predecessors have done. Powell's choice will determine whether President Trump can achieve majority control of a central bank that has operated largely insulated from day-to-day presidential politics for decades.

Senate Republicans rally behind Powell as Trump DOJ pressure on Fed mounts

2026-01-16

Senate Republicans closed ranks this week behind Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, defending central bank independence as the Trump administration escalated its pressure campaign with Justice Department subpoenas and the threat of criminal charges. Powell, 72, went on the offensive, releasing a video statement accusing the administration of using "pretexts" to coerce the Fed into cutting interest rates. Even some of Trump's most reliable Senate allies broke with the White House, calling the investigation unfounded and vowing to block administration nominees to the central bank until the legal cloud over the Fed chair is resolved.

Poll: Republicans back Trump's immigration record but say economy hasn't delivered

2026-01-16

Nearly a year into President Donald Trump's second term, Republican voters express strong support for his immigration enforcement but say his economic performance — particularly on the cost of living — has fallen well short of expectations, according to an Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll released Thursday. The survey, conducted Jan. 8–11 among 1,203 adults nationwide, found that only 16% of Republicans say Trump has helped "a lot" in addressing the cost of living during his current term. In an April 2024 AP-NORC poll, 49% of Republicans said the same about his first-term record on the same question. On immigration, about eight in ten Republicans say Trump has helped "at least a little" on immigration and border security — a level roughly comparable to their assessment of his first-term performance on the issue.

AP-NORC poll finds most Republicans back Trump on immigration, but doubt costs

2026-01-16

Nearly a year into President Donald Trump’s second term, an AP-NORC survey finds most Republicans approve of his job performance overall, with large support for his approach to immigration and border security. But the poll finds a significant gap between Republicans’ expectations for economic improvements and their assessment of what has happened so far, especially on costs of living and job creation.

House control is at the center of midterms. These charts explain the fight

2026-01-16

House control is at the center of the 2026 midterm elections, with Democrats and Republicans each targeting a relatively small number of seats in the 435-member House. The outcome will be decided by a narrow margin as incumbents weigh retirement decisions, party recruitment efforts and election-year voter trends. The AP charts highlight how history, 2025 off-year results, President Donald Trump’s role and approval, redistricting and key campaign issues could shape the contest.

Senate passes three spending bills as Homeland Security funding dispute looms

2026-01-16

Congress has cleared three annual spending bills after the Senate passed a three-bill package overwhelmingly, but lawmakers still face a dispute over funding for the Department of Homeland Security, according to an Associated Press report. The Senate vote on Thursday sent the package to President Donald Trump to be signed into law, while attention turns to the next remaining bills with a deadline of Jan. 30. The debate over Homeland Security funding has intensified after an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent shot and killed a Minnesota woman, Renee Good.

US and Taiwan sign $250B trade deal, cutting tariffs to speed chip reshoring

2026-01-16

The United States and Taiwan agreed on Thursday to a trade deal that cuts tariffs on Taiwanese goods while Taiwan’s technology companies plan $250 billion in new U.S. investment. The agreement comes as President Donald Trump has pursued new tariff arrangements and as Taiwan-based chipmaker TSMC has outlined sharply higher spending for 2026.

Whitmer warns Trump tariffs will worsen auto woes and aid China

2026-01-16

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, speaking at the Detroit Auto Show, warned that President Donald Trump’s tariff strategy would worsen auto industry conditions and benefit Chinese competitors. Whitmer’s remarks came two days after Trump defended his tariff approach in Detroit, where he toured a Ford plant in Dearborn.

Can Texas GOP Sen. John Cornyn survive in Trump’s GOP?

2026-01-16

The Republican Senate primary for John Cornyn’s seat in Texas on March 3 pits him against Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt, both positioned as closer Trump allies. As Cornyn campaigns, he has emphasized federal reimbursement for Texas work on the U.S.-Mexico border wall and presented himself as a more effective lawmaker than a loud culture warrior, while critics and some voters question whether he has kept pace with the party’s shift. (Thomas Beaumont/Associated Press)

Trump thanks Iran for halting planned mass executions as protest toll hits 2,797

2026-01-16

President Donald Trump on Friday thanked Iran's government for canceling what he said were planned executions of more than 800 political prisoners, even as the death toll from weeks of demonstrations inside Iran continued to rise. "Iran canceled the hanging of over 800 people," Trump told reporters as he departed the White House for his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. "I greatly respect the fact that they canceled." Trump also posted "Thank you!" on his social media site.

Supreme Court to rule on geofence warrants for cellphone location tracking

2026-01-16

The Supreme Court agreed Friday to take up the constitutionality of geofence warrants — broad search orders that compel technology companies to produce the location history of every cellphone user within a defined geographic area during a specific time period. The justices' decision to hear the case sets the stage for a ruling on the Fourth Amendment limits of a surveillance technique that law enforcement agencies have adopted as a routine investigative tool.

Trump puts his name on federal buildings, roads and warships in first year of second term

2026-01-16

President Donald Trump attended a ceremony in Palm Beach, Florida, on Friday to mark the renaming of a 4-mile stretch of road leading to his Mar-a-Lago estate as "President Donald J. Trump Boulevard," drawing attention to a pattern that has seen his administration and Republican allies affix his name to federal institutions, a new class of Navy warships and a series of government programs over the first year of his second term.

Tennessee man pleads guilty to hacking Supreme Court filing system 25 times

2026-01-16

A Tennessee man pleaded guilty Friday to hacking the U.S. Supreme Court's electronic filing system on 25 separate days in 2023, using stolen credentials to access and publicize personal records belonging to another user. Nicholas Moore, 24, of Springfield, Tennessee, admitted in federal court that he also breached computer systems at AmeriCorps and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Virginia Democrats advance redistricting amendment, setting April referendum vote

2026-01-16

Virginia's Democratic-controlled legislature advanced a proposed constitutional amendment Friday that would authorize mid-decade congressional redistricting, sending the question to voters in a referendum expected as early as April and joining a nationwide partisan battle over U.S. House district boundaries ahead of the 2026 elections.

DOJ tells judge to reject congressional request for Epstein files neutral overseer

2026-01-16

Manhattan's top federal prosecutor told a federal judge Friday that he lacks the authority to appoint a neutral expert to oversee the public release of documents from the sex trafficking investigation of financier Jeffrey Epstein and British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell. U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton, in a letter to Judge Paul A. Engelmayer, said the court must reject a request from two bipartisan House lawmakers who cited "urgent and grave concerns" about the pace of the document release. Clayton said the lawmakers lack legal standing to seek such relief because they are not parties to the criminal case.

Delcy Rodríguez urges opening Venezuela oil to foreign investment and diplomacy

2026-01-16

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez used her first state-of-the-union message on Thursday to urge opening the state-run oil industry to more foreign investment and to pursue warmer ties with the United States. In a 44-minute speech in Caracas, she also called for faster approval of oil-sector reforms tied to foreign firms’ access to Venezuela’s reserves. The remarks came less than two weeks after the U.S. captured and toppled former President Nicolás Maduro, according to the Associated Press report.

Denmark and Greenland plan working group after Trump meeting

2026-01-16

Denmark’s foreign minister said a “fundamental disagreement” remained after a Washington meeting with the Trump administration on U.S. ambitions to take control of Greenland, a semiautonomous territory of Denmark. Lars Løkke Rasmussen said Denmark, Greenland and the U.S. agreed to form a high-level working group to explore whether there is a common way forward.

International journalists descend on Greenland as Trump eyes control

2026-01-16

International journalists and camera crews have been arriving in Nuuk, Greenland, as a political dispute involving President Donald Trump’s calls for U.S. control of the Arctic island draws wider attention, an Associated Press reporter said. Greenlanders and politicians have described the attention as overwhelming and said they reject any suggestion the island is for sale.

Top ICE official resigns to seek GOP nomination in Ohio’s 9th District

2026-01-16

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A top U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement official resigned this week to launch a Republican campaign for Congress in Ohio’s 9th Congressional District, challenging longtime Democratic Rep. Marcy Kaptur this fall, the Associated Press reported. Madison Sheahan, a former ICE deputy director, said she resigned Thursday and pitched her record in immigration enforcement against what she said was Kaptur’s approach during her 43 years in Washington.

Trump outlines health plan proposal to send money to consumers

2026-01-16

President Donald Trump on Thursday announced the outlines of a health care plan he wants Congress to consider, centering on sending money directly to Americans through health savings accounts. The proposal also includes efforts to lower drug prices and require insurers to provide more upfront information about coverage and care timelines.

U.S. warns Iran at U.N. Security Council that “all options are on the table”

2026-01-16

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz told the Security Council on Thursday that President Donald Trump has made clear “all options are on the table” to stop what the U.S. described as the “slaughter” of protesters in Iran. The emergency meeting came as Trump signaled possible de-escalation after the U.S.-backed prospect of retaliation for protesters’ deaths had raised tensions in the region.

US seizes 6th sanctioned oil tanker tied to Venezuela, officials say

2026-01-16

The U.S. Coast Guard seized another sanctioned oil tanker in the Caribbean Sea that the Trump administration said has ties to Venezuela, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the military. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the tanker, named Veronica, was boarded early Thursday. The seizure marked the sixth sanctioned tanker taken by U.S. forces as part of the administration’s effort to curb Venezuela’s oil exports, the Associated Press reported.

White House moves to second phase of Gaza ceasefire plan with committee

2026-01-16

The White House says it is moving into the second phase of President Donald Trump’s Gaza ceasefire plan, with new steps that include creating a transitional Palestinian governing committee and starting reconstruction work. U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff announced the shift on Wednesday, but the White House and other mediators provided few details about how the committee would be formed or what powers it would have. (AP)

Trump appoints four to arts panel reviewing White House ballroom plan

2026-01-16

President Donald Trump this week appointed four members to the Commission of Fine Arts, restoring a quorum to the federal panel that must review his proposed 90,000-square-foot White House ballroom addition. The appointments, revealed in court papers filed Thursday, set up a Jan. 22 commission meeting at which the administration's East Wing Modernization project is on the agenda. The panel had been unable to meet for months after Trump dismissed six of its members last fall.

Trump administration delays student loan wage garnishment restart

2026-01-16

The Trump administration on Friday delayed plans to resume seizing wages and federal tax refunds from Americans who have defaulted on federal student loans, reversing course weeks after announcing it would restart collections this month following a pandemic-era pause. The Education Department said both administrative wage garnishment and withholding of federal payments through the Treasury Offset Program will remain on hold while the agency finalizes new repayment options.

Stephen Miller’s worldview, in his own words

2026-01-16

The White House chief of staff for policy Stephen Miller has outlined a worldview that emphasizes American strength at home and abroad, including arguments he made about the Venezuela crackdown and domestic immigration enforcement, according to writings and interviews reviewed by The Associated Press. In excerpts from Miller’s comments, he argued that Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro had sent criminals into the United States, defended a U.S. military posture in Venezuela, and said concerns about the possibility of U.S. conflict over Greenland were unfounded. The AP also highlighted Miller’s criticism of anti-ICE protests in Minneapolis and his remarks about international aid, oil and governance.

Test your knowledge on Trump’s first year back in the White House

2026-01-16

$Donald Trump$ is back in the White House, and the Associated Press is marking his first year in office with a quiz that asks readers to recall highlights and milestones from the year. The quiz, published by AP on Jan. 16, 2026, frames the questions around Trump’s “first year back” during his second term.

Trump administration lists major sports exempt from visa travel ban

2026-01-16

The Trump administration told U.S. embassies and consulates that athletes, coaches and certain support staff tied to the 2026 World Cup, the 2028 Olympic Games and other designated “major sporting events” will be allowed to travel to the United States, even as the administration maintains a visa ban for citizens of nearly 40 countries. The State Department sent the guidance in a cable issued Wednesday, according to the AP. <a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-visas-travel-ban-world-cup-olympics-869bace5a2eb40b7f1aac1e6b8667474">The AP reported</a> the cable’s contents, including that exemptions for events would not automatically extend to foreign spectators, media and corporate sponsors.

Federal judge dismisses DOJ bid for detailed California voter data

2026-01-16

A federal judge dismissed a U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit against California seeking detailed voting records and personal data on its 23 million registered voters, saying the request was “unprecedented and illegal.” The judge said the Trump administration “may not unilaterally usurp the authority over elections” without Congress, and warned that consolidating election power would threaten “the right to vote.” California’s top elections official said the state would continue to challenge the lawsuit.

Lawmakers grill general on U.S. Latin America presence in hearing

2026-01-16

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Francis Donovan, nominated to lead U.S. Southern Command, told the Senate Armed Service Committee on Thursday that he is ready to oversee an expanded U.S. military presence in Latin America but does not know how long it will last. Lawmakers questioned how the administration plans to run the Southern Command amid a campaign that culminated with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s capture, and they also grilled another nominee for the National Security Agency.

Pentagon orders Stars and Stripes to eliminate “woke distractions”

2026-01-16

The Pentagon said it is changing Stars and Stripes so the independent military newspaper focuses on “reporting for our warfighters” and eliminates “woke distractions.” The shift, described Thursday by Sean Parnell, the spokesman for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, comes amid questions about how the outlet’s leadership and editorial practices would be reshaped under the Trump administration.

Washington lawmakers consider limits on license-plate reader camera access

2026-01-16

Washington state legislators are weighing a bill to restrict public access to data from license-plate reader cameras amid privacy and public-records concerns. The proposal comes as cities including Redmond have shut down their systems after a November court ruling said most images captured in Washington are public records. Spokane County Sheriff John Nowels said the cameras help investigations, while warning the technology could be misused if details are easily obtainable.

FDA fast-track drug voucher program sparks legal questions and internal turmoil

2026-01-16

The Associated Press reported that the FDA’s “National Priority Voucher” program to speed drug reviews is drawing legal questions and alarm among some agency staffers, who say decisions are being moved away from career scientists and toward political leadership. The report said senior FDA officials raised concerns about who can legally sign off on expedited approvals, and that the program is tied to White House drug-pricing efforts.

Judge orders release of Liberian man arrested in Minneapolis raid

2026-01-16

A federal judge in Minnesota ordered the release of a Liberian man arrested in Minneapolis by heavily armed immigration agents who entered his home with a battering ram. The judge said the agents violated the man’s Fourth Amendment rights against unlawful search and seizure.

Senators warn USPS postmark changes could disenfranchise mail-ballot voters

2026-01-16

Sixteen U.S. senators sent a letter Thursday to U.S. Postal Service Postmaster General David Steiner, warning that recent changes to USPS mail processing operations could cause mail-in ballots to receive postmarks that don't reflect the day voters mailed them — potentially disenfranchising voters in states that use postmark dates to determine ballot eligibility. The bipartisan group, made up of 15 Democrats and one independent who caucuses with the party, said updated agency policy now means postmarks may reflect when mail arrives at a regional processing center rather than when a letter carrier collected it or a voter dropped it at a retail location.

Texas A&M cancels graduate ethics course after professor declines syllabus review

2026-01-16

Texas A&M University canceled a graduate-level public administration ethics course three days into the spring semester after Professor Leonard Bright declined to specify which class sessions would address race, gender or sexual orientation — information administrators said they needed to evaluate the course under a new Texas A&M System policy. Bush School Dean John Sherman announced the cancellation in a schoolwide email Wednesday, saying Bright had refused repeated requests to provide the required information. Bright, who has taught the course since 2018, disputed that characterization, saying he told administrators the topics would arise throughout every class meeting rather than on identifiable days.

Cuban immigrant dies in Texas ICE detention; medical examiner rules homicide

2026-01-16

Geraldo Lunas Campos, a 55-year-old Cuban immigrant held at a federal immigration detention facility near El Paso, Texas, died January 3 following a confrontation with guards, and the El Paso County Medical Examiner's office told his family that a preliminary autopsy report classified his death as homicide by compression asphyxia of the chest and neck, according to a recording of the call reviewed by the Associated Press. The Department of Homeland Security offered a conflicting account, saying Thursday that Campos had violently resisted staff while simultaneously attempting to take his own life — an account the agency updated only after the AP sought comment.

Michigan hunters can use mobile app instead of paper kill tags starting March 1

2026-01-16

Michigan hunters will be able to validate kills using the Hunt Fish mobile app starting March 1, after the state's Natural Resources Commission approved optional electronic kill tags on Wednesday. The change applies to deer, bobcat, bear, fisher, marten and otter. Hunters who choose the digital tags will no longer need to display paper kill tags on certain animals.

8-year-old Maleeka Boone found dead on Navajo Nation after Turquoise Alert

2026-01-16

Maleeka Boone, 8, was found dead Friday on Navajo Nation tribal lands in northern Arizona, one day after she was reported missing in the Coalmine Canyon area, authorities said. The FBI and Navajo Police Department are jointly investigating her death; an FBI spokesperson declined to provide details about the circumstances.

New Jersey sues Clark over racially discriminatory policing under former mayor

2026-01-16

New Jersey's attorney general sued the town of Clark and three current and former officials on Friday, alleging that former Mayor Sal Bonaccorso directed police to systematically stop and harass Black and Hispanic motorists while working to keep minorities out of the New York suburb. The complaint names Bonaccorso, suspended Police Chief Pedro Matos, and current Police Director Patrick Grady as defendants.

Babson College freshman awaits return after mistaken ICE deportation to Honduras

2026-01-16

Any Lucia Lopez Belloza, a 19-year-old Babson College freshman, was detained by federal immigration agents at Boston's Logan Airport on November 20 and deported to Honduras two days later, despite a Massachusetts court order that she must not leave the United States, she told the Associated Press on Friday. The U.S. government has apologized in court, acknowledging that an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer mistakenly kept her name on a deportation flight list. Her attorney filed a motion Friday asking a federal judge to set a two-week deadline for the Trump administration to arrange her return.

Trump's threatened Insurrection Act use in Minneapolis would be unprecedented, experts say

2026-01-16

President Donald Trump threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy federal military forces to Minnesota, seeking to suppress protests in Minneapolis that arose after federal immigration agents shot and killed a U.S. citizen, Renee Good. Constitutional and military law experts said the move would be an abuse of the 19th-century statute unlike any in American history.

Norwegian Cruise Line charges Hawaii tourist tax despite court injunction

2026-01-16

Norwegian Cruise Line is collecting Hawaii's 14 percent transient accommodations tax from passengers on its current Hawaii voyages, even though a federal appellate court blocked state officials from collecting those taxes on cruise ships just hours before they were set to take effect on Jan. 1. Passengers aboard Norwegian's Pride of America discovered the charges mid-voyage this week. Don Yonce, a Dallas resident, said an invoice he received during the interisland voyage Sunday included a $1,035 charge in state and county transient accommodations tax, based on the weeklong cost of his family's cabin suite.

OpenAI plans to show ads to free ChatGPT users as costs mount

2026-01-16

OpenAI said Friday it will begin testing advertisements on the free version of ChatGPT within weeks, as the San Francisco-based company seeks new revenue to cover more than $1 trillion in financial obligations for computer chips and data centers powering its artificial intelligence services. The company said ads have not yet appeared on the chatbot but testing would begin in the coming weeks.

Tesla gets five-week extension in federal full self-driving investigation

2026-01-16

Federal auto safety regulators have granted Tesla a five-week extension to respond to a government investigation into its Full Self-Driving software, which has been linked to dozens of reported incidents involving vehicles running red lights, traveling the wrong way on roads and colliding with other vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration set a new response deadline of Feb. 23, extending the original Jan. 19 date, according to the agency.

Nevada faces year-end deadline with $700 million in pandemic relief unspent

2026-01-16

Nevada state agencies had not yet spent more than $700 million of the $2.7 billion in flexible pandemic relief funds the state received in 2021, with roughly one year remaining before unspent dollars must revert to the federal government, according to information presented to state lawmakers at a December meeting. Two of the largest projects still outstanding — a $203 million rural broadband expansion and a $25 million effort to relocate residents from a sinking North Las Vegas neighborhood — have each spent a fraction of their allocated funds.

DOJ investigates Walz and Frey over statements on Minnesota immigration enforcement

2026-01-16

The Justice Department is investigating whether Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey impeded federal immigration enforcement through public statements they made, two people familiar with the matter told the Associated Press on Friday, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the pending probe. The investigation focuses on a potential violation of a federal conspiracy statute, the people said. Neither official's office said it had received formal notice of the probe.

WV foster care bills fall short on root causes, child welfare researchers say

2026-01-16

West Virginia Republican lawmakers opened the legislative session in Charleston this week with 16 bills aimed at fixing the state's troubled foster care system. Five child welfare researchers who reviewed the proposals said the package fails to address the roots of the crisis, will not prevent children from being removed from their families, and is unlikely to produce meaningful staffing improvements. "I think these are somewhat incremental," said Bethany R. Lee, professor of children's services at the University of Maryland's School of Social Work and one of the researchers consulted.

California tightens homelessness funding strings as annual pool drops to $500M

2026-01-16

California counties seeking state homelessness funds now face a new set of accountability requirements — including a state-approved encampment policy and a coveted "prohousing designation" held by fewer than 12% of the state's jurisdictions — to access a pool cut by half, to $500 million, for the coming fiscal year. Gov. Gavin Newsom's administration and the Legislature attached the conditions to the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention program, the main source of state money counties and cities have used to fight homelessness since 2019.

Army memo extends D.C. National Guard deployment through end of 2026

2026-01-16

Army Secretary Dan Driscoll signed a memo Wednesday extending the National Guard deployment in Washington, D.C., through the end of 2026, according to a copy reviewed by the Associated Press. The memo cited "the conditions of the mission" as justification for pushing the deployment well past its prior end date of late February, framing the extension as continued support for President Donald Trump's "ongoing efforts to restore law and order." About 2,600 National Guard troops are currently stationed in the capital — approximately 700 from D.C. itself and the remainder drawn from 11 states, including Indiana, South Carolina, Florida, Mississippi, and Oklahoma.

Medical examiner finds Texas ICE detainee's death a homicide; witness describes chokehold

2026-01-16

A Cuban immigrant died Jan. 3 at a Texas immigration detention facility on a U.S. Army base, and the El Paso County Medical Examiner's Office has told his family that a preliminary autopsy classified his death as a homicide resulting from asphyxia from chest and neck compression, according to a recording of that call reviewed by the Associated Press. The federal government provided a differing account, saying Geraldo Lunas Campos, 55, had been attempting suicide and that staff tried to save him. A fellow detainee who said he witnessed the incident through his cell window told the AP that Lunas Campos was already handcuffed when at least five guards pinned him to the floor and at least one placed an arm around his neck. "The last thing he said was that he couldn't breathe," said Santos Jesús Flores, 47, of El Salvador, speaking in Spanish by telephone from the facility.

Disabled U.S. citizen dragged from car by ICE agents in Minneapolis, hospitalized

2026-01-16

A U.S. citizen said she was dragged from her car by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis on Thursday while traveling to a medical appointment, then detained at a facility where she was denied medical care before losing consciousness in her cell. Aliya Rahman, who said she is disabled, released a statement after video of her removal — which appears to show agents smashing her passenger window, cutting her seatbelt, and carrying her to an ICE vehicle — drew millions of views on social media. The Department of Homeland Security disputed her account, calling her an agitator who had ignored commands to move her vehicle away from the scene.

Two Orange County protesters blinded at immigration rally, federal force disputed

2026-01-16

Two men say federal agents blinded them in one eye with crowd-control projectiles during a Jan. 9 demonstration outside a federal immigration building in Orange County, California. The Department of Homeland Security has not answered questions about what type of weapon was used, while a DHS spokesperson called one of the men's injury claims "absurd."

231 Venezuelan migrants arrive in Caracas on first US deportation flight since December

2026-01-16

CARACAS, Venezuela — An Eastern Airlines charter carrying 231 Venezuelan migrants deported from the U.S. city of Phoenix landed at an airport outside the capital on Friday, resuming direct deportation flights after a roughly five-week suspension, Venezuelan officials said. The arrival marked the first direct U.S.-to-Venezuela deportation transfer since Dec. 10, according to Venezuelan officials, who said Washington unilaterally halted the flights in mid-December.

Ashley St. Clair sues xAI over Grok deepfakes; company countersues in Texas court

2026-01-16

Ashley St. Clair, a 27-year-old writer and the mother of one of Elon Musk's children, sued xAI in New York State Supreme Court on Thursday, alleging that Musk's artificial intelligence company allowed its Grok chatbot to generate sexually exploitative deepfake images of her without her consent. St. Clair, who describes herself as a political strategist and has more than 1 million followers on X, said in court documents that the images included a photograph of her taken at age 14 that was altered to show her in a bikini, adult images depicting her in sexualized positions, and an image showing her in a bikini bearing swastikas. St. Clair is Jewish.

Virginia judge allows third offshore wind project to resume amid court losses for Trump

2026-01-16

A federal judge in Virginia on Friday granted a preliminary injunction allowing construction to resume on Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind, making it the third East Coast offshore wind project this week to win a court order blocking the Trump administration's 90-day lease suspension. The ruling followed similar orders earlier in the week that cleared Empire Wind off New York and Revolution Wind serving Rhode Island and Connecticut to restart work.

Social media falsely identifies pardoned Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio as ICE officer

2026-01-16

Social media posts have falsely identified Enrique Tarrio, the pardoned former leader of the Proud Boys, as a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer — a claim denied by both the agency and Tarrio himself, according to the Associated Press. The false claim circulated widely on multiple platforms this week as protests continued in Minneapolis over the fatal shooting of Renee Good by a federal immigration officer.

Czech government led by Andrej Babiš wins confidence vote, 108-91

2026-01-16

The Czech Republic’s new government led by populist Prime Minister Andrej Babiš won a mandatory confidence vote in the lower house of Parliament on Thursday. Lawmakers voted 108-91 to back the coalition’s governing agenda. The agenda includes steering the country away from supporting Ukraine and rejecting some key European Union policies.

Eric Adams’ NYC Token drops after launch withdrawals spark scrutiny

2026-01-16

Ex-NYC Mayor Eric Adams’ newly launched cryptocurrency token, dubbed NYC Token, fell sharply after an account linked to the token’s creation withdrew $2.5 million in coins, according to a crypto-analytics firm. After surging to a nearly $600 million valuation minutes after the launch, the token lost nearly 75% of its value by that evening, Bubblemaps reported. Adams, now a private citizen, has denied that he or anyone connected to the project profited or moved investor funds.

Exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi’s Iran plan seeks Trump support, experts say

2026-01-16

Exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi on Thursday laid out aspirations for Iran if the Islamic Republic’s theocracy is toppled, and experts said his plan appears largely aimed at winning support from U.S. President Donald Trump. Pahlavi urged protesters onto Iran’s streets last week as authorities shut down the internet and launched a crackdown that activists say has killed thousands.

Fact check: Former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio is not an ICE officer

2026-01-16

Claims spreading online amid protests in Minneapolis after Renee Good was fatally shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer have falsely said Enrique Tarrio is now an ICE officer. An ICE and Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said Tarrio is not employed by ICE, and Tarrio also denied the claim in posts on X.

Forense dice que inmigrante cubano murió por asfixia en custodia en Texas

2026-01-16

Un inmigrante cubano murió este mes en un centro de detención de migrantes en Texas durante un altercado con guardias, y el médico forense local indicó que su fallecimiento probablemente se clasificará como homicidio, según una grabación revisada por The Associated Press. El gobierno de Estados Unidos dio una versión diferente inicialmente, al decir que el detenido intentó suicidarse, y luego ajustó su explicación después de preguntas de la AP.

Fight over Medi-Cal funding puts pressure on Newsom to raise taxes

2026-01-16

California health care advocates, labor unions and progressive lawmakers urged Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Legislature on Wednesday to find new money to backfill cuts to Medi-Cal, the state’s nearly $200 billion Medicaid program. Their coalition, “Fight for Our Health,” demanded action to replace billions in federal funding reductions President Donald Trump and Republicans approved last year.

Greek court acquits Sarah Mardini and 23 others in migrant rescue case

2026-01-16

A Greek court acquitted a group of rescue volunteers on Thursday, including Syrian competitive swimmer Sarah Mardini, ending a case tied to aid for migrants on the island of Lesbos. The 24 defendants were found not guilty of facilitating illegal entry and forming a criminal organization, according to the court ruling. The acquittal drew criticism from international human rights groups when the case began and was welcomed by their advocates after the decision.

Grok chatbot controversies spur new government investigations

2026-01-16

Elon Musk’s Grok has faced a series of controversies involving political echoing, deepfake sexual images and antisemitic content, and governments are now stepping up scrutiny. The Associated Press reported that, over the past year and into early 2026, xAI tied some incidents to product changes and said it has adjusted how Grok handles images. The latest reports say more governments have condemned the platform and opened investigations.

Guatemala’s Arevalo seeks stable US ties as Trump era reshapes risks

2026-01-16

Guatemala President Bernardo Arévalo said he wants to keep a strong, strategic relationship with the United States while working to support international law and peaceful dispute resolution. In an interview with The Associated Press on Jan. 15, Arévalo spoke after the U.S. removed Venezuela’s president, which he said underscored a broader period of “disorder.”

HHS cuts and reinstates mental health grants, sparking provider chaos

2026-01-16

The Trump administration cut nearly $2 billion in federal grants supporting substance abuse and mental health programs, then reversed course and restored the funding, leaving providers scrambling amid confusing notifications. The episode unfolded over two days this week, with many recipients receiving termination letters before later being told the grant withdrawals were rescinded.

Insurrection Act: How presidents have used it and what Trump wants

2026-01-16

Donald Trump has threatened to invoke the 19th-century Insurrection Act so he can send U.S. military forces to Minnesota, where protests have escalated amid federal law-enforcement activity. The Insurrection Act gives presidents authority to use the military domestically, but legal and constitutional experts told The Associated Press that the criteria for its use in Minneapolis are not clearly met.

Liberian man arrested in Minneapolis raid regularly checked in, lawyer says

2026-01-16

A Liberian man arrested after heavily armed immigration agents used a battering ram to break into his Minneapolis home had been checking in regularly with federal immigration authorities for years, his lawyer said Tuesday. Marc Prokosch, an attorney for Garrison Gibson, said Gibson’s arrest over the weekend violated the U.S. Constitution because the agents had only an administrative warrant.

Machado says she presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to Trump

2026-01-16

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said she presented President Donald Trump with her Nobel Peace Prize medal during a meeting at the White House on Thursday. Machado said she did it “as a recognition for his unique commitment with our freedom,” then went to Capitol Hill and later met with a bipartisan group of senators.

Renee Good shooting sparks Democrats to seek limits and accountability for ICE

2026-01-16

Democrats across the United States have introduced or planned state proposals aimed at limiting federal immigration enforcement after the shooting death of Renee Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis, according to Associated Press reporting. Tennessee Republicans, meanwhile, introduced a package of bills backed by the White House that would enlist state agencies in President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.

Samia Suluhu Hassan urges vigilance after Tanzania internet shutdown

2026-01-16

Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Thursday commented for the first time since a disputed October election on a six-day internet shutdown during the country’s worst postelection violence, saying the government would work to prevent a repeat. Speaking in Dodoma to ambassadors and representatives of international organizations, she also expressed “sincere sympathy” to diplomats and foreign nationals for the “uncertainty, service restrictions and internet shutdowns” they experienced.

San Jose bans ICE from using city properties for immigration enforcement

2026-01-16

San Jose’s City Council voted unanimously to bar U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, from using dozens of city properties for immigration-related operations. The measure, approved Tuesday, covers 11 city garages and parking lots and the parking areas of 75 community centers and libraries. It comes amid similar local actions in Santa Clara County and after Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an executive order Oct. 6 laying out comparable rules.

Trump issues series of pardons, including for donor’s father twice convicted

2026-01-16

President Donald Trump issued a series of pardons and commutations in recent days, including clemency for the father of a large donor to a pro-Trump super PAC and for former Puerto Rico Gov. Wanda Vázquez, an AP report said. The pardons also included a woman whose sentence Trump commuted in his first term but who later returned to prison for a separate scheme.

Witness describes chokehold as Texas ICE detainee death labeled homicide

2026-01-16

A Cuban immigrant died in an immigration detention facility in Texas during an altercation with guards earlier this month, and the local medical examiner has indicated the death will likely be classified as a homicide, the Associated Press reported. The death of Geraldo Lunas Campos, who was 55, became the subject of conflicting accounts from U.S. agencies and detainees. The federal government said he was attempting suicide, while a witness described him being pinned and choked after he was handcuffed.

Video shows immigration agents dragging Minneapolis woman out of her car

2026-01-16

Federal immigration officers in Minneapolis dragged Aliya Rahman out of her car and detained her, a statement released by Rahman said Thursday, after a video of the arrest drew millions of views online. Rahman, a U.S. citizen on her way to a medical appointment, said she was brought to a detention center where she was denied medical care and later lost consciousness. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security disputed her account and said she ignored commands to move her vehicle away.

Oglala Sioux president retracts claims of DHS pressure, member arrests

2026-01-16

Frank Star Comes Out, president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, has walked back claims that immigration enforcement arrested four tribal members and that the federal government tried to extract an “immigration agreement” out of the tribe. The claims came amid concerns over the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement agenda.

Trump signs whole-milk bill, shifts to Iran, Venezuela leak, tariffs

2026-01-15

President Donald Trump signed a bipartisan measure allowing schools to serve whole and 2% milk, while discussing Iran, a suspected leaker in Venezuela and executive orders during a White House event that began with a bottle of milk on the Resolute Desk. The Associated Press reported that after the initial remarks, Trump first told reporters that plans for executions in Iran had stopped before moving on to other topics.

Appeals court reverses ruling that freed Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil

2026-01-15

A federal appeals panel on Thursday reversed the lower court decision that had freed Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil from immigration detention, moving the Trump administration one step closer to detaining and potentially deporting the former Columbia University graduate student. The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 that a federal judge in New Jersey lacked jurisdiction to hear Khalil's constitutional challenge before his case had fully moved through the immigration court system. The panel left unresolved the central legal question of whether the administration's use of immigration law to remove Khalil over his campus activism is itself unconstitutional.

Bipartisan senators propose $2.5 billion agency to counter China's grip on critical minerals

2026-01-15

A bipartisan pair of U.S. senators on Thursday introduced legislation to create a new independent agency funded with $2.5 billion to stockpile rare earth elements and other critical minerals, stabilize prices, and encourage domestic and allied production. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., and Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind., sponsored the Senate bill; Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Va., introduced the House companion. The move comes as the Pentagon has separately committed billions of dollars in equity stakes and partnerships to reduce American dependence on China, which processes more than 90 percent of the world's critical minerals and has used that leverage to extract trade concessions from Washington.

Senate dismisses Venezuela war powers resolution after GOP senators reverse

2026-01-15

Senate Republicans voted Wednesday to dismiss a war powers resolution that would have limited President Donald Trump's ability to conduct further attacks on Venezuela, after two GOP senators reversed course. Vice President JD Vance broke a 50-50 deadlock on a Republican motion to dismiss the measure.

CDC studies show wastewater detected measles weeks before diagnoses as funding faces deep cuts

2026-01-15

Two studies published Thursday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that wastewater surveillance detected measles outbreaks weeks to months before clinical diagnoses in Colorado and Oregon, adding to evidence that sewer testing is a powerful early-warning tool for public health officials — findings that arrive as a Trump administration budget proposal would cut the national program's funding by roughly 80 percent.

Betsy McCaughey enters Connecticut governor's race, seeking GOP nomination

2026-01-15

Betsy McCaughey, a Republican and former lieutenant governor of New York, filed paperwork Thursday to seek the GOP nomination for Connecticut governor, challenging Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont, who is running for a third term. McCaughey, 77, a conservative host on Newsmax and New York Post columnist who lives in Greenwich, Connecticut, announced her candidacy the previous evening, according to the Associated Press.

FBI searches Washington Post reporter’s home in leak probe

2026-01-15

FBI agents searched a Washington Post reporter’s home in Virginia as part of a classified documents leak investigation, the Justice Department said. The search targeted reporter Hannah Natanson, while the Justice Department said the reporter and the newspaper were not targets of the probe, according to the Post.

AP-NORC: Trump approval holds at 4 in 10 one year into second term

2026-01-15

About 4 in 10 U.S. adults approved of President Donald Trump's performance as president as of early January, according to a new AP-NORC poll — a figure virtually unchanged from March 2025, shortly after Trump began his second term. The poll, conducted Jan. 8–11, 2026, among 1,203 adults, found Trump's overall approval has remained unusually stable despite a year of active domestic and foreign policy moves.

Trump threatens Insurrection Act as Minneapolis immigration protests continue

2026-01-15

President Donald Trump on Thursday threatened to invoke an 1807 federal law and deploy troops to Minneapolis, where federal immigration enforcement operations have triggered protests, a second officer-involved shooting, and school closures since an ICE agent fatally shot Renee Good on Jan. 7. The threat came one day after an immigration officer shot and wounded a Venezuelan man following a confrontation in which three people attacked the officer with a shovel and broom handle, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

xAI geoblocks Grok nudification tool as California investigation opens

2026-01-15

Elon Musk's artificial intelligence company xAI said it has implemented geoblocking to prevent its Grok chatbot from editing photographs to portray real people in revealing clothing in jurisdictions where such manipulation is illegal — a step announced after a global wave of government actions against nonconsensual sexualized imagery the tool had been used to produce. The announcement, posted Wednesday on X, followed California's disclosure that it was investigating the proliferation of nonconsensual sexually explicit material generated with Grok, which state officials said was being used to harass women and girls.

Iranian demonstrators get Starlink boost as SpaceX drops fees

2026-01-15

SpaceX has made its Starlink satellite internet service free in Iran, helping demonstrators share information beyond the country’s internet shutdown, activists told The Associated Press. The reported move comes after Iran shut down telecommunications and internet access nationwide on Jan. 8 as protests expanded amid economic turmoil and currency collapse.

Judge weighs Trump pause on Empire Wind offshore project in NY case

2026-01-15

A federal judge is considering whether to set aside an order from the Trump administration pausing work on the Empire Wind offshore wind farm off New York, the developer said the suspension could end a project that is 60% complete. District Judge Carl J. Nichols, an appointee of President Donald Trump, heard arguments in the case Wednesday and is to issue a decision Thursday, according to the Associated Press.

Republicans defend narrow House majority as history and approval ratings favor Democrats

2026-01-15

Republicans enter the 2026 midterm election year defending a 220-215 House majority, with President Donald Trump personally directing candidate recruiting and strategic planning in an effort to avoid a repeat of his first term, when Democrats won the chamber in 2018 and went on to impeach him twice. Democrats, buoyed by strong off-year election results in 2025 and targeting nearly 40 Republican-held districts, are more than ready for the fight, the Associated Press reported Thursday.

Whitmer warns Trump's tariffs aid China, as auto industry faces job losses

2026-01-15

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said Thursday at the Detroit Auto Show that President Donald Trump's tariff strategy has contracted American auto manufacturing and is benefiting Chinese competitors, delivering her first speech of 2026 two days after Trump defended his trade policies in the same city. Whitmer, a term-limited Democrat in her final year as governor, said American manufacturing has contracted for months, causing job losses and production cuts. "This will only get worse without a serious shift in national policy," she said.

Senate passes three-bill spending package as Homeland Security dispute looms

2026-01-15

The Senate passed a three-bill government spending package 82-15 on Thursday, completing action on six of 12 annual appropriations bills as Congress works toward a Jan. 30 deadline. The package advances full-year funding for agencies including the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Energy, Interior and Justice, and now goes to President Donald Trump for his signature.

Trump lawyers viewed Maduro ouster as lawful, memo says it wasn't a war

2026-01-15

Days before a U.S. military operation removed Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro, Justice Department lawyers said the action would serve “important national interests” and would “not rise to the level of war in the constitutional sense,” according to a heavily redacted legal opinion released this week.

Alaska appeals court to rule on felony voter charges tied to American Samoa

2026-01-15

A state appeals court in Alaska is set to decide whether to dismiss felony voter misconduct charges against a woman born in American Samoa, whose case has drawn attention to the territory’s unusual citizenship rules. The Alaska Court of Appeals heard arguments Thursday in the case against Tupe Smith, arrested after winning a regional school board election in 2023.

Final day to pick ACA plans in most states as subsidies lapse

2026-01-15

Open enrollment ends Thursday in most states for Affordable Care Act coverage starting in February, as the expiration of federal subsidies raises costs and lawmakers remain in talks over a possible extension. About 10 states with their own marketplaces have later or extended deadlines. Enrollment is lagging behind last year, with about 22.8 million people signed up so far, federal data show.

Mideast allies urge Trump to hold off on Iran strikes as protest death toll tops 2,600

2026-01-15

Several Middle Eastern allies of the United States urged the Trump administration Thursday to hold off on military strikes against Iran, warning that armed intervention would destabilize an already volatile region and rattle the global economy, according to an Arab diplomat familiar with the conversations. Top officials from Egypt, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar raised those concerns in the preceding 48 hours as the White House continued to insist all options remain on the table. Iran's nationwide protests appeared increasingly suppressed a week after authorities isolated the country from outside communications and escalated a violent response that activists say has killed at least 2,637 people.

US seizes sixth sanctioned oil tanker in Caribbean as Venezuela campaign expands

2026-01-15

U.S. Coast Guard and military forces seized a sixth sanctioned oil tanker in the Caribbean Sea on Thursday, boarding the vessel named Veronica in an operation conducted with troops launched from the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced. The ship had previously passed through Venezuelan waters and was operating in defiance of a U.S.-imposed quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the region, Noem said.

Senate grills SouthCom nominee on scope of U.S. military role in Latin America

2026-01-15

The Marine Corps general nominated to lead U.S. military operations in Latin America told the Senate Armed Services Committee on Thursday that he expects U.S. Southern Command to look "much different" this year, but said he does not know how long the Trump administration's enhanced military presence in the region will last or what its long-term plans entail. Lt. Gen. Francis Donovan appeared before the committee for his confirmation hearing to lead Southern Command, the Doral, Florida-based headquarters overseeing U.S. military operations throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. If confirmed by the Senate, he would replace Navy Adm. Alvin Holsey, who retired last year amid growing scrutiny over the Trump administration's deadly strikes on boats accused of drug smuggling.

Cuba repatriates 32 officers killed in Venezuela raid as US tensions mount

2026-01-15

White-gloved Cuban soldiers carried urns containing the remains of 32 military officers into the headquarters of the Ministry of the Armed Forces in Havana on Thursday, completing a repatriation that the Cuban government marked as one of the most significant mass funerals on the island in half a century. The officers were killed on Jan. 3 during a U.S. raid on the Caracas residence of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who was seized and transported to the United States to face drug trafficking charges. Tens of thousands of Cubans lined streets to pay their respects as President Miguel Díaz-Canel and former President Raúl Castro attended the ceremony.

House GOP's new Jan. 6 committee holds first hearing amid clashes over attack history

2026-01-15

The House Republican-led Select Committee on the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack held its first hearing Wednesday in Washington, focused on the FBI's five-year investigation into pipe bombs planted outside Democratic and Republican party headquarters that day. Republicans on the panel challenged the established account of the attack, suggesting that Trump supporters who stormed the Capitol had been essentially misled into doing so, while portraying central militia groups as having been entrapped by the federal government. The top Democrat on the panel, Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland, warned he and other Democrats would not remain silent.

Trump outlines health care plan built on savings accounts and drug price cuts

2026-01-15

President Donald Trump on Thursday announced the outlines of a health care plan he wants Congress to take up, centering on direct government payments to Americans for health savings accounts and steps to lower prescription drug prices, as Republicans face pressure after enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies expired at the end of 2025. The White House released a taped video in which Trump described the plan's core mechanism. "The government is going to pay the money directly to you," Trump said. "It goes to you and then you take the money and buy your own health care."

ICE deputy director Sheahan resigns to challenge Kaptur in Ohio's 9th

2026-01-15

Madison Sheahan, 28, resigned Thursday as deputy director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to seek the Republican nomination for Ohio's 9th Congressional District, targeting Democratic incumbent Rep. Marcy Kaptur, 79, the longest-serving woman in Congress. Sheahan, who was appointed to the ICE post by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in March and previously served as secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, described herself in a campaign launch video as "a Trump conservative" and said she had stopped more illegal immigration in less than a year than Kaptur had in 43 years in Washington.

Machado gives Trump her Nobel Peace Prize medal at White House meeting

2026-01-15

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado gave President Donald Trump her Nobel Peace Prize medal at the White House on Thursday, describing the gesture as recognition of his "unique commitment" to Venezuelan freedom — even as the White House said the meeting had not changed Trump's assessment of her political viability. The two-and-a-half-hour meeting produced no public commitment from Trump on a timeline for elections in Venezuela, where interim President Delcy Rodríguez continues to govern with U.S. cooperation.

Guterres opens final year at UN by condemning law violations, ultra-wealthy influence

2026-01-15

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres told the 193-member General Assembly on Thursday that the world faces "brazen violations of international law" and a "morally indefensible" concentration of wealth in the hands of the richest 1%, delivering a sweeping indictment of global power at the outset of his final year heading the organization. Guterres, whose second five-year term ends Dec. 31, said the organization's member nations are confronting "a world marked by self-defeating geopolitical divides, brazen violations of international law, and wholesale cuts in development and humanitarian aid."

Machado presents Nobel medal to Trump, leaves White House with no election commitment

2026-01-15

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado presented her Nobel Peace Prize medal to President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday in a gesture she described as recognition of his role in ousting Nicolás Maduro. Trump confirmed on social media that he accepted the medal, calling the meeting "an honor." Machado spent about two and a half hours at the White House before heading to Capitol Hill, where senators who met with her said she received no commitment from the administration on holding elections in Venezuela.

U.S. warns Iran 'all options on table' at UN as crackdown death toll reaches 2,677

2026-01-15

The United States and Iran confronted each other Thursday at an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting called by Washington, where U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz warned that President Trump would act to stop Iran's deadly crackdown on nationwide protests. Activists say the government's security forces have killed at least 2,677 people since the demonstrations began, a toll that exceeds any prior round of unrest in Iran in decades, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency. The figure released Thursday represents an increase of 106 from a day earlier.

House GOP’s new Jan. 6 committee questions what happened

2026-01-15

One week after the nation marked the fifth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack, House Republicans used a new Select Committee on the Jan. 6 assault to reconsider what happened that day. The committee held its first hearing Wednesday, focusing on the FBI’s investigation into pipe bombs found outside Democratic and Republican party headquarters during the attack. During the two-hour session, the hearing also became a battleground over competing accounts of why Trump’s supporters engaged in the Capitol violence.

Liberian man arrested in Minneapolis raid had been checking in regularly with authorities

2026-01-15

The attorney for a Liberian man arrested Sunday in a Minneapolis immigration raid said Tuesday his client had been meeting regularly with federal immigration authorities for years and had checked in with agents only days before they used a battering ram to break down his front door. Attorney Marc Prokosch called the arrest of Garrison Gibson, 37, a "blatant constitutional violation," saying agents carried only an administrative warrant — which authorizes an arrest but does not permit forced entry into a private home. Forced entry requires a criminal warrant signed by a judge.

HHS cuts, then restores $2 billion in mental health and substance abuse grants

2026-01-15

The Department of Health and Human Services on Thursday restored nearly $2 billion in federal grants to substance abuse and mental health service providers after abruptly terminating the funding two days earlier, leaving roughly 2,000 organizations scrambling to reverse layoffs and other emergency measures already set in motion. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration notified grant recipients of the restoration Thursday morning, hours after a separate 2 a.m. email reiterating the original cuts was confirmed to have been sent in error.

Renee Good's death triggers state legislative battle over ICE enforcement

2026-01-15

State legislatures across the country advanced competing proposals on immigration enforcement Thursday following the shooting death of Renee Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis, with Democratic-led states moving to restrict ICE operations and Republicans in Tennessee introducing White House-backed bills to expand enforcement cooperation. New Jersey's Democrat-led Legislature passed three bills Monday that immigrant rights groups have sought for years, including a measure prohibiting state law enforcement officers from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement. Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy had until Tuesday, his last day in office, to sign or veto them.

Federal judge clears Empire Wind to resume construction, second court loss for Trump this week

2026-01-15

A federal judge on Thursday cleared New York's Empire Wind offshore wind project to resume construction, handing Norwegian energy company Equinor a victory and dealing the Trump administration its second federal court defeat this week in its effort to halt East Coast offshore wind development. District Judge Carl J. Nichols, a Trump appointee, ruled that construction could proceed while he considers the merits of the government's suspension order. Nichols faulted the administration for failing to respond to key points in Equinor's court filings, including the contention that the administration violated proper procedure when it issued the freeze.

Health care debate returns as ACA subsidies expire and lawmakers weigh options

2026-01-15

Millions of Americans face higher health care costs after Republican-controlled Congress let Affordable Care Act subsidies expire, reopening a long-running fight over the government’s role in health coverage. The battle plays out again in Washington as senators and House members consider whether to extend some subsidies, while Trump’s team promotes proposals built around lowering drug prices and letting people use health savings accounts.

Athletes, coaches exempt from Trump travel ban on 39 countries

2026-01-15

The Trump administration has identified a host of athletic competitions where athletes and coaches will be allowed to travel to the United States despite a broad visa ban affecting nearly 40 countries, the State Department said Wednesday.

Pentagon orders Stars and Stripes to drop 'woke distractions,' focus on warfighters

2026-01-15

The Pentagon announced Thursday that it is directing Stars and Stripes, the congressionally protected military newspaper, to eliminate what Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's spokesman called "woke distractions" and refocus content on service members. Hegseth's spokesman, Sean Parnell, said in a post on X that the publication would cover "warfighting, weapons systems, fitness, lethality, survivability and ALL THINGS MILITARY," and that the Defense Department would generate half of its content while ending reprints from the Associated Press and Reuters. The publication's own publisher said he first learned of the changes by reading Parnell's social media post, not through any communication from the Pentagon.

California governor to block Louisiana extradition of abortion pills doctor

2026-01-15

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said he will block Louisiana’s attempt to extradite a Bay Area doctor accused of mailing abortion pills. Newsom said the move would violate an executive order he signed in 2022 barring California agencies from helping other states prosecute abortion providers.

Can Texas GOP Sen. John Cornyn survive in Trump’s party ahead of March primary?

2026-01-15

Texas Republican Sen. John Cornyn is campaigning for renomination in a March 3 GOP primary in which he faces Attorney Gen. Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt, two competitors who present themselves as closer to Donald Trump. Cornyn, 73, has leaned on a steadier, more institution-focused style, including publicly thanking Trump for federal funds to help Texans’ work on the border wall.

FDA fast-track voucher drug reviews spark legality, staff concerns

2026-01-15

The Associated Press reports that a new FDA fast-track program tied to Commissioner Marty Makary is sparking legal concerns among top officials and anxiety within the agency’s drug-review center. The AP said agency staffers worry the program could shift key approval decisions away from career scientists and into the hands of political leadership, amid ties to the White House’s drug pricing push.

Press freedom advocates worry raid on Post journalist’s home chills reporting

2026-01-15

Washington press freedom advocates raised alarm after federal agents searched Washington Post journalist Hannah Natanson’s home in Virginia this week, saying the action could deter reporting that relies on government whistleblowers. The Washington Post said the search targeted Natanson’s phone, laptops and a Garmin watch, while the Justice Department obtained a warrant connected to an investigation into a government contractor accused of illegally retaining classified materials. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said the search was done at the request of the Defense Department and that Natanson was obtaining and reporting classified, illegally leaked information.

Israel to honor Charlie Kirk with award for combating antisemitism

2026-01-15

Israel will posthumously honor the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk with an award for combating antisemitism at a conference in Jerusalem later this month, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. The conference, the International Conference on Combating Antisemitism, will take place four months after Kirk was assassinated while speaking at an American university.

Detroit auto show reflects EV retreat as Trump policies reshape U.S. market

2026-01-15

DETROIT — Electric vehicles no longer hold a dedicated lane at the North American International Auto Show, where indoor tracks once reserved exclusively for EVs now admit hybrids and gas-powered vehicles — a change organizers say reflects a broader industry shift under President Donald Trump's pro-fossil fuels agenda. U.S. electrified vehicle sales, including plug-in hybrids, grew just 1 percent in 2025, according to data released this week by Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, as China posted 17 percent growth and Europe 33 percent over the same period.

Grok AI draws global scrutiny over deepfakes, antisemitism and political bias

2026-01-15

Governments around the world have opened investigations into Grok, the AI chatbot operated by Elon Musk's company xAI, after the platform generated sexualized deepfake images — including depictions involving children — through its AI image-generation tool, the Associated Press reported. xAI said it is restricting non-paying users from generating or editing images in response to the global backlash. The deepfake controversy is the latest in a series of documented incidents in which Grok has spread antisemitic content, echoed Musk's political views and inserted commentary on South African racial politics into unrelated conversations, the AP reported.

Washington moves to restrict license-plate camera data access amid stalking fears

2026-01-15

Washington state lawmakers have introduced legislation to sharply limit public access to automatic license-plate reader data after a November court ruling found that nearly all images captured by the cameras in the state qualify as public records available to anyone who requests them — a decision that law enforcement officials say could allow stalkers and abusers to track victims through government databases. The bill, filed as the 2026 legislative session opened in Olympia, is co-sponsored by Sen. Yasmin Trudeau, D-Tacoma, and Sen. Jeff Holy, R-Cheney, a former Spokane Police Department detective. It would restrict Flock Safety cameras to sites near hospitals, schools, food banks and churches; prohibit their use for immigration enforcement or protest monitoring; cut the default image-retention period from 30 days to three; and limit public records requests for camera data to academic researchers only.

Oglala Sioux president walks back ICE arrest claims; DHS denies any encounter

2026-01-15

The president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe issued a revised memo Thursday walking back his earlier public claims that Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested four tribal members in Minneapolis and that federal officials had demanded an immigration agreement from the tribe in exchange for information. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said it could not verify that any of its officers had arrested or even encountered members of the tribe.

Kaiser affiliates to pay $556M to settle Medicare fraud lawsuit

2026-01-15

Kaiser Permanente affiliates will pay $556 million to settle a federal lawsuit alleging the Oakland-based health care giant committed Medicare fraud by pressuring physicians to record more severe patient diagnoses than warranted in order to receive higher government reimbursements, federal prosecutors said Wednesday. The settlement resolves a U.S. Department of Justice case filed in San Francisco more than four years ago that consolidated allegations from six whistleblower complaints. Kaiser said the deal includes no admission of wrongdoing or liability.

Connecticut special ed report flags staffing gaps, dispute flaws despite federal compliance

2026-01-15

Connecticut's special education system has significant staffing shortages, cumbersome data collection tools, and a dispute-resolution process that parents and advocates say fails to hold school districts accountable, according to a report presented Wednesday to the State Board of Education. Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker, who commissioned the evaluation six months ago, said she sought an honest assessment of systemic weaknesses — and the consultancy that conducted it confirmed many of those concerns.

Newsom blocks Louisiana's extradition of Bay Area doctor charged over abortion pills

2026-01-15

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said Wednesday he was blocking Louisiana's attempt to extradite a San Francisco Bay Area physician accused of mailing abortion pills, citing a 2022 executive order that bars state agencies under his administration from cooperating with other states' prosecutions of abortion providers. Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry, a Republican, had sent extradition paperwork the day before seeking to bring the doctor "to justice." Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill identified the physician as Remy Coeytaux and said he faced a criminal charge of abortion by means of abortion-inducing drugs, with a potential sentence of up to 50 years in prison if convicted.

Guatemala's Arévalo charts careful path with U.S. after Maduro ouster

2026-01-15

GUATEMALA CITY — Guatemala President Bernardo Arévalo said Thursday his country is focused on maintaining a "good" relationship with the United States while working to uphold international law and peaceful dispute resolution, an approach he described as increasingly urgent following the U.S. removal of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Venezuela's acting president calls for foreign oil investment, warmer US ties

2026-01-15

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez used her first state of the union address Thursday to call for opening the country's state-run oil industry to foreign investment and to advocate for resuming diplomatic ties with the United States, less than two weeks after Washington captured and ousted former President Nicolás Maduro.

Last guard faces jury in Robert Brooks prison death as prosecutor urges manslaughter verdict

2026-01-15

UTICA, N.Y. — A New York prison guard who watched without intervening as fellow officers beat an inmate to death should be convicted of manslaughter, a prosecutor told a jury Thursday in the final criminal trial stemming from the death of Robert Brooks. Special prosecutor William Fitzpatrick delivered closing arguments in the second-degree manslaughter trial of former corrections officer Michael Fisher, 55, in state court in Utica. The jury began deliberating Thursday afternoon.

San Jose bans ICE from city properties in unanimous council vote

2026-01-15

The San Jose City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to prohibit U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from using 11 city-owned parking garages and lots and the parking areas of 75 community centers and libraries as staging areas or operational bases for immigration enforcement. The vote makes San Jose the latest city to restrict where federal immigration agents may operate on public property, following similar actions in Santa Clara County and Chicago, where Mayor Brandon Johnson signed an executive order in October laying out comparable rules.

Ex-NYC Mayor Adams' NYC Token collapses 75% amid rug pull allegations

2026-01-15

Eric Adams, the former mayor of New York City, stood in Times Square on Monday to announce his first post-mayoral initiative — a new cryptocurrency meme coin called NYC Token — only to watch its value plunge roughly 75% the same day after an account linked to the token's creation withdrew $2.5 million worth of coins shortly after launch, according to crypto analytics firm Bubblemaps. The coin had surged to a valuation of nearly $600 million within minutes of its debut before the sell-off collapsed investor confidence.

Hawaiʻi public defenders wait six months for raises the Legislature approved

2026-01-15

More than six months after Hawaiʻi's Legislature approved a 20% pay raise for state public defenders, 101 attorneys have gone through 12 consecutive pay periods without seeing the increase in their paychecks, according to records obtained by Honolulu Civil Beat. Staffing shortages at the state Department of Budget and Finance — the agency responsible for processing salary adjustments for the Office of the Public Defender and six other state agencies — have stalled implementation of the raises that took effect July 1.

Kemp closes Georgia governorship with $1.17B rebate plan, bid to shape state's future

2026-01-15

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp delivered his final State of the State address Thursday in Atlanta, proposing to spend $1.17 billion from the state's budget surplus on income tax rebates and calling to accelerate a planned reduction in the state's flat income tax rate to 4.99%. Kemp, who refused President Donald Trump's demands to overturn Georgia's 2020 presidential election results and survived Trump's subsequent political retaliation, is working to extend his influence in Georgia politics well past his departure from office.

Experts call Trump's Insurrection Act threat in Minneapolis 'flagrant abuse'

2026-01-15

President Donald Trump has threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy U.S. military forces to Minneapolis, where protests have grown since a federal officer shot and killed Renee Good. Constitutional law experts said the threatened move would be without historical precedent because the federal agents Trump himself sent to the city initiated the violence he now seeks to suppress.

Miller articulates power doctrine behind Venezuela operation, Greenland ambitions

2026-01-15

Stephen Miller, the White House chief of staff for policy, told CNN in January that world affairs are "governed by strength, governed by force, governed by power," articulating the ideological framework the Trump administration has applied to its military operation in Venezuela, its push to acquire Greenland, and its domestic immigration enforcement crackdown. "These are the iron laws of the world," Miller told CNN anchor Jake Tapper.

Wisconsin Democrats pursue statehouse trifecta for first time in 16 years

2026-01-15

MADISON, Wis. — Wisconsin Democrats enter 2026 pursuing something they have not achieved in 16 years: simultaneous control of the governor's office and both chambers of the state legislature. Court-ordered redistricting, an open governor's race and a midterm election cycle historically favorable to the party out of power in Washington have put a so-called trifecta within reach, according to party officials and strategists.

Fake small business sites use AI-generated backstories to deceive shoppers

2026-01-15

Fake online storefronts are using AI-generated images and fabricated family histories to impersonate small businesses on social media and the web, deceiving shoppers into purchasing goods that consumer reviewers say arrive shoddy or not at all, an Associated Press investigation found. Two sweater retail sites — Melia & Co and Olivia Westwood Boutique — display many of the same Icelandic, Nordic and festive sweaters using identical stock images while presenting themselves as distinct family-run operations, operating under domains registered in China in November, ahead of the holiday shopping season.

Takaichi plans Japan snap election after lower house convenes Jan. 23

2026-01-15

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi plans to dissolve Japan’s lower house of Parliament soon and call a snap election to seek public approval for her policies, a senior ruling party official said Wednesday. Shunichi Suzuki, secretary general of the Liberal Democratic Party, said Takaichi told top party officials she intends to dissolve the chamber “soon” after it convenes Jan. 23.

Trump signs school milk bill as geopolitics dominates Oval Office ceremony

2026-01-14

President Donald Trump signed the "Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act" at the White House on Wednesday, but the Oval Office ceremony became a vehicle for a series of unrelated announcements — including Trump's claim that Iran had halted plans for mass executions, the arrest of a leaker he connected to Venezuela, and the signing of executive orders on semiconductor and rare earth mineral tariffs. The dairy legislation arrived near the end of the event, with a glass bottle of whole milk placed on the Resolute Desk going untouched throughout.

California housing bond advances as rent control bill fails committee vote

2026-01-14

California's Senate Housing Committee approved a $10 billion affordable housing bond by an 8-1 vote last week, while a separate proposal to cap annual rent increases died in the Assembly Judiciary Committee on Tuesday after receiving only four of the seven votes needed to advance, marking a split start to a legislative session housing advocates have called critical.

Schumer says Democrats are preparing for Trump to disrupt and dispute the midterms

2026-01-14

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Wednesday that Democrats have assembled teams of senators and lawyers to counter any effort by President Donald Trump to interfere with the 2026 midterm elections. In a 20-minute telephone interview with the Associated Press, Schumer said cost of living was the dominant concern for American families and outlined a five-issue economic platform the party plans to run on through November.

November wholesale prices up 0.2% in report delayed by federal shutdown

2026-01-14

The Labor Department on Wednesday released a months-delayed report showing U.S. wholesale prices rose a modest 0.2% in November from October and 3% from a year earlier, the agency said, completing the first of several economic data releases that last fall's 43-day federal government shutdown pushed past their scheduled dates. The November producer price index was originally scheduled for December 11.

Georgia lawmakers pass bill to void Savannah gun-storage ordinance

2026-01-14

Georgia lawmakers on Tuesday gave final passage to a bill aimed at voiding a Savannah ordinance that penalizes leaving guns in unlocked vehicles. The measure would prevent cities and counties from regulating how guns are stored and would let gun owners sue local governments over such rules. Senate Bill 204 now goes to Gov. Brian Kemp for his signature or veto.

House passes Shower ACT to loosen federal showerhead water-efficiency rules

2026-01-14

The Republican-controlled House on Tuesday passed legislation aimed at loosening federal efficiency standards for showerheads, advancing a measure aligned with President Donald Trump’s order to reduce water conservation requirements. The bill, dubbed the Saving Homeowners from Overregulation With Exceptional Rinsing, or Shower ACT, passed 226-197, with 11 Democrats voting for it.

Trump says he will impose 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Iran

2026-01-14

President Donald Trump said Monday he would impose a 25% tax on imports to the United States from countries that do business with Iran, a move aimed at pressuring Tehran to end what the White House and activists describe as a crackdown on nationwide protests. The tariffs, first described in a social media post, could also raise prices Americans pay for imports and create ripple effects for the United States’ trade truce with China.

Denmark cites 'fundamental disagreement' with U.S. over Greenland after White House talks

2026-01-14

Denmark's top diplomat said Wednesday that a "fundamental disagreement" with President Donald Trump over Greenland persists after Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and Greenland's Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt held talks at the White House with Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The two sides agreed to form a working group to address differences, but Rasmussen said Trump's push for U.S. sovereignty over the semiautonomous Danish territory had not softened. "It remains clear that the president has this wish of conquering over Greenland," Rasmussen told reporters after the meeting.

Supreme Court rules police can enter homes without warrant in emergencies

2026-01-14

The Supreme Court ruled unanimously Wednesday that Montana police acted lawfully when they entered a man's home without a warrant after a reported suicide threat, finding the officers' conduct 'objectively reasonable' under existing constitutional standards. The case stemmed from a 2021 incident in which William Case was shot and wounded after officers entered his home without a warrant and an officer fired when Case emerged from a closet holding an object that appeared to be a gun.

AP-NORC poll: 56% of Americans say Trump has gone too far on military intervention

2026-01-14

More than half of U.S. adults believe President Donald Trump has "gone too far" in using the military to intervene in other countries, according to a new AP-NORC poll conducted Jan. 8–11, days after the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The survey found 56% hold that view, while majorities also disapprove of Trump's handling of foreign policy broadly and the situation in Venezuela specifically.

22 candidates file for Georgia seat vacated by Marjorie Taylor Greene

2026-01-14

Twenty-two candidates — including a former district attorney, a state senator and a trash-hauling entrepreneur — filed to contest Georgia's 14th Congressional District seat after Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned from Congress earlier this month. Qualifying closed Wednesday, drawing 17 Republicans, three Democrats, a Libertarian and an independent. The field will appear on a single all-party ballot on March 10, according to the Associated Press.

Federal panel allows California's Prop. 50 House map for 2026 elections

2026-01-14

A federal three-judge panel ruled 2-1 on Wednesday that California may use its new voter-approved congressional map for the 2026 midterm elections, denying requests from state Republicans and the U.S. Justice Department to block the map on the grounds that it unconstitutionally favored Hispanic voters on racial lines.

CBO: Renaming Pentagon the 'Department of War' could cost up to $125 million

2026-01-14

A Congressional Budget Office analysis released Wednesday found that renaming the Department of Defense the "Department of War" could cost U.S. taxpayers as much as $125 million, depending on how broadly and how quickly the change is implemented. President Donald Trump signed an executive order in September authorizing "Department of War" as a secondary title for the Pentagon, saying the switch was intended to signal that the United States was a force to be reckoned with. Congress, which must formally approve any permanent name change, has shown no serious interest in doing so.

Venezuela war powers resolution fails in Senate as two Republicans reverse course

2026-01-14

The Senate voted Wednesday to dismiss a war powers resolution that would have constrained President Donald Trump's authority over military operations in Venezuela, after two Republican senators reversed their earlier support following direct pressure from Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Vice President JD Vance broke a 50-50 tie on a Republican motion to dismiss the bill.

Justice Dept. memo backed Maduro removal as below constitutional war threshold

2026-01-14

Days before U.S. forces removed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from power on Jan. 3, Justice Department lawyers concluded the operation would not constitute a constitutional war requiring congressional approval and would serve important national interests, according to a heavily redacted legal opinion released this week. The 22-page opinion, dated Dec. 23, was prepared for the legal counsel of the White House National Security Council by the Justice Department's Office of Legal Counsel — the body typically convened to resolve complex legal questions for the executive branch.

Maryland Gov. Moore pushes redistricting despite fellow Democrats' warnings

2026-01-14

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said Wednesday he wants the Democratic-controlled state legislature to vote on a new congressional map, pressing ahead with a mid-decade redistricting effort as the state's annual 90-day legislative session began in Annapolis. The move came despite warnings from Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson, a fellow Democrat, that the push could cost the party seats rather than gain one.

State Dept. suspends immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries

2026-01-14

The State Department announced Wednesday it will suspend immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries — including Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, and Somalia — effective January 21, citing concerns that applicants are likely to require U.S. public assistance. The move is grounded in a November order that tightened standards for immigrants deemed potential "public charges," and is part of a continuing effort by the Trump administration to restrict legal pathways into the country. The department said the suspension will remain in place while it reevaluates immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals expected to rely on public benefits.

Trump administration threatens billions in federal aid to Minnesota

2026-01-14

The Trump administration has moved to freeze or withhold hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funding to Minnesota, targeting programs that provide food assistance, health care, and child care to low-income families, while filing a civil lawsuit against the state over its government hiring practices, according to the Associated Press.

Montana weighs demolishing, remodeling, or selling its vacant governor's mansion

2026-01-14

Montana state officials are weighing three options for the governor's executive residence in Helena — demolition, remodeling, or sale — after years of deferred maintenance left the 67-year-old building with rotted ceilings, non-functional toilets, a failing electrical system, and asbestos. The state Department of Administration closed a public survey on the building's fate last month, and the Capitol Complex Advisory Council is expected to review the results and cost estimates at a forthcoming meeting, the date of which has not yet been scheduled.

Minneapolis sees second federal shooting as courts, governor push back on immigration sweep

2026-01-14

A federal immigration officer shot a man in the leg in Minneapolis on Wednesday after being attacked with a shovel and broom handle during an arrest attempt, the Department of Homeland Security said — the second shooting involving federal agents in the city since an ICE officer fatally shot Renee Good seven days earlier. Smoke filled the street near the scene as officers in gas masks fired tear gas and grenades at onlookers, who threw snowballs and chanted, "Our streets."

State Dept. suspends immigrant visa processing from 75 countries over public charge concerns

2026-01-14

The State Department said Wednesday it will suspend immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries beginning Jan. 21, citing concerns that applicants from those nations are likely to require public assistance after entering the United States. The list includes Afghanistan, Iran, Russia and Somalia, along with dozens of other countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe.

Trump claims Iran protest killings 'stopped' as Tehran signals mass executions ahead

2026-01-14

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he had been told "on good authority" that plans to execute Iranian protesters had stopped, even as Iran's judiciary chief called the same day for rapid trials and executions of more than 18,000 detained demonstrators. Trump, speaking at the White House while signing executive orders, cited unnamed sources he described only as "very important sources on the other side" and acknowledged he was uncertain whether his claim was accurate.

NIOSH workers reinstated after mass layoffs gutted federal workplace safety agency

2026-01-14

Federal health officials confirmed Wednesday that laid-off workers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health are being reinstated, months after the Trump administration eliminated close to 900 of the agency's roughly 1,000 employees. The American Federation of Government Employees, which represents NIOSH staff, said all terminations have been rescinded. A Department of Health and Human Services spokesman confirmed the reinstatements but did not say how many workers would return.

Trump signs law returning whole milk to school cafeterias

2026-01-14

President Donald Trump signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act on Wednesday, allowing schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to serve whole and 2% fat milk for the first time since 2012. The signing reverses Obama-era restrictions that had limited cafeteria milk to skim and low-fat varieties. The change will affect meals served to roughly 30 million students enrolled in the program.

Food companies target GLP-1 drug users with unregulated 'friendly' labels

2026-01-14

Food companies are affixing "GLP-1 Friendly" labels to frozen meals, smoothies and snacks to court the growing number of Americans on weight-loss drugs — but the labels carry no regulatory standard, and dietitians warn that the marketing can mislead consumers about what the products actually provide.

Public mistrust drives first drop in US kidney transplants in over a decade

2026-01-14

Organ donations from the recently deceased fell in 2025 for the first time in more than a decade, resulting in 116 fewer kidney transplants, according to an analysis released Wednesday by the nonprofit Kidney Transplant Collaborative. The organization attributed the decline to public mistrust following rare reports of patients prepared for organ retrieval while still showing signs of life.

SAMHSA reverses $2 billion in mental health grants after abrupt cuts triggered layoffs

2026-01-14

The Trump administration reversed the cancellation of approximately 2,000 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration grants representing nearly $2 billion in funding on Wednesday, hours after the abrupt Tuesday-night cuts had already prompted grant recipients to lay off employees and cancel services. Grant recipients told the Associated Press they had not yet received direct notification of the reinstatements by Wednesday evening, and the reason for the reversal was not made public.

Oregon immigration-stop shooting suspect pleads not guilty to assault on agent

2026-01-14

Luis David Nino-Moncada, the man shot and wounded by a Border Patrol agent during an immigration stop in Portland, Oregon, last week, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to aggravated assault on a federal employee and damaging federal property. His public defender entered the plea on his behalf during a hearing in U.S. District Court. He was indicted on the charges Tuesday and remains in custody, with a release hearing scheduled for next week.

Trump-appointed judge sharply questions offshore wind freeze, cites government gaps

2026-01-14

A federal district judge appointed by President Donald Trump sharply questioned the administration's legal justification for pausing construction on a major offshore wind farm near New York on Wednesday, telling government attorneys their court briefs failed to address key procedural challenges raised by the project's developer. District Judge Carl J. Nichols said the government's filing did not even acknowledge the developer's argument that the administration acted arbitrarily, and said he planned to rule Thursday.

Oglala Sioux Tribe demands release of three members held in ICE detention

2026-01-14

The president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe called Tuesday for the immediate release of three tribal citizens held at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Minnesota, arguing that enrolled tribal members are U.S. citizens who fall categorically outside federal immigration jurisdiction. Frank Star Comes Out issued the demand after ICE agents arrested four tribe members at a Minneapolis homeless encampment last Friday. One of the four has since been released.

Anchorage mayor proposes $12 million education levy as schools face budget crisis

2026-01-14

Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance on Monday proposed a one-time education tax levy to raise $12 million for the Anchorage School District, saying the district's financial crisis was too urgent to wait for a broader city revenue package. LaFrance said she was asking the Assembly to set aside her previously proposed 3% sales tax in order to focus the spring ballot on the school levy. If eight Assembly members approve the measure by Jan. 27, it would go to voters on April 7.

California parole grant rate falls below 25% as hearing opportunities expand

2026-01-14

California's Board of Parole Hearings approved fewer than one in four incarcerated people who appeared before it in 2025, a sharp decline from a 39% approval rate in 2018, according to a CalMatters analysis distributed by the Associated Press on Wednesday. The drop came even as California expanded parole eligibility and increased annual hearings from 5,226 in 2018 to a peak of 9,017 in 2022, before settling at roughly 8,000 annually in 2023 and remaining there.

Venezuela's acting president pledges more prisoner releases after Trump call

2026-01-14

Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez pledged Wednesday to continue freeing political prisoners and described the country as entering 'a new political moment' at her first press briefing since former President Nicolás Maduro was seized by U.S. forces and flown to the United States to face federal drug-trafficking charges. President Donald Trump said separately he had spoken with Rodríguez in what he called a 'great conversation' — their first since Maduro's capture on Jan. 3.

Kent Syverud named University of Michigan president amid federal funding cuts

2026-01-14

The University of Michigan Board of Regents unanimously approved Kent Syverud as the institution's 16th president on Monday, selecting the current Syracuse University chancellor and president to lead a flagship university contending with federal grant cuts, back-to-back athletic department scandals, and the second-highest in-state tuition among Michigan's public universities. Syverud, 69, will begin the role July 1 under a five-year contract with a base salary of $2 million and a potential annual performance award of up to 30 percent of that figure. Syverud becomes U-M's third president in five years and the first U-M alumnus to serve in the role in nearly a century. He replaces interim President Domenico Grasso, the former U-M Dearborn chancellor who assumed the office since May after Santo Ono stepped down after less than three years.

Hawaiʻi weighs mandatory renewal tests after 129 road deaths in 2025

2026-01-14

Hawaiʻi lawmakers and a Honolulu city council member are considering whether to reinstate mandatory written tests at driver's license renewals, a practice the state abandoned in 1997, after 129 people died on Hawaiʻi roads last year — the highest toll in 18 years. A Honolulu City Council committee was set to take up the proposal Thursday afternoon.

ACLU drops suit after HHS restores $27.5M in Title X family planning funds

2026-01-14

The American Civil Liberties Union dropped its federal lawsuit against the Department of Health and Human Services on Jan. 13 after the Trump administration agreed to restore $27.5 million in Title X family planning grants it had withheld since last spring. According to the ACLU, the funding suspension had left 865 family planning service sites unable to provide services to an estimated 842,000 patients across nearly two dozen states.

US apologizes for deporting Babson freshman despite court order but opposes her return

2026-01-14

The Trump administration apologized in federal court Tuesday for a 'mistake' in the deportation of Any Lucia Lopez Belloza, a 19-year-old Babson College freshman who was removed to Honduras in November despite an emergency court order directing her to remain in the United States — but still argued the error should not affect her case or result in her return. Lopez Belloza had been detained at Boston's Logan Airport on Nov. 20 while trying to board a flight home to surprise her family for Thanksgiving.

Washington crime victim services near collapse as federal funding falls 76% since 2018

2026-01-14

Crime victim service organizations across Washington state are confronting a cascading funding crisis after federal Victims of Crime Act dollars fell 76% between 2018 and 2024 — from $74.7 million to $17.86 million — forcing layoffs of therapists and advocates, reductions in emergency financial assistance, and the closure of at least one children's advocacy center, according to a report by InvestigateWest distributed through the Associated Press. Gov. Bob Ferguson's proposed state budget allocates $12 million for crime victim services in the next fiscal year, roughly $9 million short of what state officials and providers say is the minimum needed to keep the statewide network intact.

Good family hires George Floyd law firm to investigate Minneapolis ICE killing

2026-01-14

Renee Good's family has hired the Chicago-based law firm Romanucci & Blandin — which represented George Floyd's family and helped secure a $27 million settlement — to investigate Good's death during a Minneapolis immigration enforcement operation, the firm announced Wednesday. Good, 37, a mother of three, was shot and killed by a federal deportation officer on Jan. 7. The firm said it intends to share findings "on a rolling basis" because it believes the community is not receiving adequate information elsewhere.

Georgia official calls law Trump is using to seek legal fees likely unconstitutional

2026-01-14

The executive director of a nonpartisan group that supports Georgia prosecutors filed a court document Wednesday arguing that the state law President Donald Trump and co-defendants in the dismissed Georgia election interference case are using to seek millions of dollars in attorney fees is likely unconstitutional. Pete Skandalakis, who heads the Georgia Prosecuting Attorneys' Council and took over the case before dismissing it in November, wrote that the law has "serious and potentially unconstitutional deficiencies" because it denies county governments any due process when defendants seek reimbursement. Trump is seeking more than $6.2 million; together, Trump and other defendants have requested nearly $17 million, Skandalakis noted.

China urges Canada to back “strategic autonomy” during Carney trip

2026-01-14

Chinese state media is urging Canada to chart a foreign-policy course independent of the United States as Prime Minister Mark Carney visits Beijing this week, the Associated Press reported. The push comes as relations between Canada and China have been strained for years and as Donald Trump’s approach to allies and trade has added to Canadian unease. The Chinese outlets tied their call to what they said is Washington’s pressure on Ottawa.

DOJ says no basis for criminal civil rights probe in Renee Good killing

2026-01-14

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department said Tuesday it does not believe there is currently a basis to open a criminal civil rights investigation into the killing of Renee Good by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis. In a statement, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said “there is currently no basis for a criminal civil rights investigation,” while an FBI probe remains underway.

Ex-CEO charged with embezzling $5.2M from Paul Newman camp for sick kids

2026-01-14

Former CEO Christopher L. Butler, 49, of Porter Ranch, California, has been charged with 15 felonies after prosecutors said he embezzled more than $5 million over seven years from The Painted Turtle, a nonprofit co-founded by Paul Newman for children with serious medical conditions. Butler is expected to be arraigned Thursday in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County district attorney said the alleged theft violated the law and “our deepest values.”

Familiares esperan en Venezuela por liberaciones prometidas por el gobierno

2026-01-14

Familiares de personas detenidas en Venezuela esperaban el lunes fuera de prisiones de Caracas mientras buscaban confirmación sobre liberaciones prometidas por el gobierno. El colectivo Foro Penal había verificado la liberación de 49 presos hasta la tarde del lunes, según el reporte.

Former New York City aide pleads not guilty in federal bribery case

2026-01-14

An official who worked in former New York City Mayor Eric Adams’s administration pleaded not guilty in federal court Tuesday to bribery, kickback and fraud charges, the Associated Press reported. Tony Herbert, 61, entered the plea in Manhattan federal court after his arrest, AP said.

Iran broadcasts at least 97 coerced confession videos, activists say

2026-01-14

Iranian state media has aired at least 97 televised confession videos involving protesters since protests began on Dec. 28, according to a U.S.-based human rights group tracking the broadcasts. Activists say the confessions are coerced and are often produced after psychological or physical torture, with some cases involving charges that can carry the death penalty.

Louisiana seeks to extradite California doctor over abortion pill case

2026-01-14

Louisiana moved Tuesday to extradite a California physician accused of mailing abortion pills to a woman in the state, setting up what advocates say could be a test of shield laws for telehealth providers. The push came after Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill announced that Remy Coeytaux faces a criminal charge of abortion by means of abortion-inducing drugs.

Michigan bans more than 30,000 personalized license plates

2026-01-14

Michigan has banned more than 30,000 personalized license plates, according to a new version of the state’s rejection list obtained through a public records request and reported by Bridge Michigan. The list topped 30,000 plates words for the first time last year, and the state banned about 2,000 additional plates in 2025, Bridge reported. Plate denials are typically tied to profanity, references to bodily functions, drugs and alcohol, graphic or sexual content, offensive slurs, or phrases that could interfere with law enforcement identification.

New York AG reaches settlement with Betar US over harassment claims

2026-01-14

New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a settlement Tuesday with Betar US, a right-wing Jewish group she accused of intimidating pro-Palestinian protesters. The agreement requires the group to stop activities that threaten or intimidate Muslim, Jewish and Palestinian activists at protests and curb certain frequent social media posts, with a $50,000 penalty for violations.

New York Gov. Hochul lays out reelection agenda bridging Democratic divides

2026-01-14

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul used her annual State of the State address Tuesday to unveil a reelection-year agenda aimed at bridging Democratic Party divides, while also addressing public safety and antisemitism. Speaking at The Egg near the state Capitol in Albany, Hochul laid out affordability proposals including a plan to expand pre-kindergarten statewide.

Trump says he will halt federal payments to sanctuary cities starting Feb. 1

2026-01-14

President Donald Trump said Tuesday that starting Feb. 1 his administration will deny federal funding to any states that have local governments sheltering people from deportation under his immigration policies. He said the move would expand on previous threats to cut off resources to “sanctuary cities” themselves. Courts have blocked similar efforts in Trump’s first term and last year.

Trump claims Iran executions 'stopped' as Tehran signals fast trials ahead

2026-01-14

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he had been told "on good authority" that Iran had stopped plans to execute detained protesters, even as Iranian officials publicly called for rapid trials and executions of more than 18,000 people held in the crackdown on nationwide demonstrations.

Trump creates turmoil as he faces midterm verdict

2026-01-14

President Donald Trump has escalated a range of moves involving Venezuela, Greenland and immigration enforcement in the first weeks of 2026, as voters prepare to vote in the November midterm elections. In the U.S., his administration’s actions also include a criminal investigation tied to Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell’s testimony, a step that drew unusual criticism from some Republican voices.

Big banks post higher profits, while Trump presses 10% credit cap

2026-01-14

Bank of America, Citigroup and Wells Fargo reported higher profits and said consumers and businesses are showing resilience, even as they clash with President Donald Trump over his push to cap credit-card interest rates at 10%. In their latest earnings reporting, bank executives said they are willing to work with the administration on affordability, but warned that a rate cap would restrict credit—especially for borrowers who rely on it.

Democrats see narrow path to regain Senate majority in 2026

2026-01-14

WASHINGTON — Senate Democratic leaders said Tuesday they see a path to winning back the majority in November, but characterized it as narrow and with limited room for error. The Democrats’ latest optimism follows former Rep. Mary Peltola’s announcement that she will run for the Senate in Alaska, giving the party what Schumer called a wider opportunity to compete in a state Republicans have held.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp projects post–Trump influence in final State of State

2026-01-14

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp delivered what he framed as his final State of the State speech on Thursday as he approaches the end of his term, while also trying to shape Georgia’s politics beyond his time in office. In the address, Kemp argued for a new round of income tax rebates and proposed additional budget items aimed at teachers, state and university employees, law enforcement and college aid.

US sanctions Iranian officials accused of repressing protests

2026-01-14

The U.S. is imposing a new round of sanctions on Iranian officials accused of repressing nationwide protests against Iran’s government, the Treasury Department said. The sanctions include the secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security, along with 18 people and companies tied to a shadow-banking network described by the Treasury. The measures were announced in Washington on Thursday.

Wisconsin Democrats seek 2026 trifecta after Supreme Court redistricting

2026-01-14

Wisconsin Democrats are pursuing a statehouse trifecta in 2026—control of the Senate, Assembly and governor—something they have not held together in 16 years. The plan leans on new district boundaries ordered by Wisconsin’s liberal-controlled Supreme Court, an open governor’s race in November and what Democrats describe as a favorable midterm backdrop for their candidates.

Mark Brnovich, former Arizona attorney general, has died at 59

2026-01-14

Mark Brnovich, Arizona’s former attorney general who led the state’s investigation into allegations of 2020 election fraud, has died. He died after having a heart attack Monday, according to a family representative, and was 59. Brnovich was in his second term as attorney general when Arizona became a focal point for efforts by President Donald Trump and his allies to find evidence supporting claims that the 2020 election was marred by fraud.

Colorado appeals panel weighs sentencing for Tina Peters election breach

2026-01-14

Colorado’s appeals court on Wednesday questioned whether a judge can factor a former Mesa County clerk’s election-conspiracy statements into a prison sentence for a data breach of election equipment. Prosecutors defended comments by District Court Judge Matthew Barrett during sentencing, while Peters’ lawyers argued sentencing errors and highlighted Trump’s pardon.

Democrats say prosecutors contacted them over “illegal orders” troop video

2026-01-14

Democrats who appeared in a video urging troops to resist “illegal orders” said Wednesday that they have been contacted by prosecutors as part of an investigation led by the Trump administration. Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan said the U.S. attorney’s office for the District of Columbia reached out to ask to interview her, after President Donald Trump accused the lawmakers of sedition over the video.

Proposed billionaire tax in California sparks Silicon Valley uproar

2026-01-14

A proposed one-time 5% tax on California billionaires’ assets to fund health services has ignited political conflict in Silicon Valley, with tech leaders warning they may reduce their ties to the state. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom is trying to stop the measure from reaching the ballot before a November vote, arguing a wealth tax would hurt California’s economy and could backfire.

Arizona expands groundwater regulation to western edge of state

2026-01-14

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs announced new groundwater-use rules for the Ranegras Plain Groundwater Basin in the state’s western edge after the state agency determined plummeting water levels are causing land subsidence. The designation, announced Monday during Hobbs’ address to the Legislature, creates a framework for basin management plans and requires water users to track and report usage. Affected users and agribusiness operators say they will challenge the rules as groundwater declines continue.

Trump's Iran tariffs threaten US-China trade truce, could raise American prices

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump announced Monday he would impose a 25% tariff on imports from any country that does business with Iran, seeking to pressure Tehran to end its violent suppression of nationwide protests that have killed more than 2,500 people, according to activists. Trade analysts and economists warned the measure threatened to unravel a fragile trade truce with China and could raise prices for American consumers.

JPMorgan Chase Q4 profits rise 9% on adjusted basis as Apple Card deal weighs on results

2026-01-13

JPMorgan Chase reported Tuesday that fourth-quarter net income rose 9% on an adjusted basis, beating analyst expectations despite a one-time $2.2 billion loan-loss reserve charge tied to its purchase of the Apple Card portfolio from Goldman Sachs. The bank earned $13.03 billion, or $4.63 per share, for the quarter, with adjusted earnings of $5.23 per share exceeding the $4.85 consensus analyst estimate, according to FactSet.

Georgia lawmakers pass bill to void Savannah's gun-storage-in-cars ordinance

2026-01-13

Georgia's state Senate gave final passage Tuesday to legislation that would void a Savannah ordinance requiring gun owners to secure firearms in locked vehicles, sending the measure to Gov. Brian Kemp for his signature or veto. The bill also adds the word storage to existing state law that bars cities and counties from regulating firearm possession and carry, closing a gap Savannah officials had used to justify the local rule.

House passes Shower ACT loosening federal showerhead water limits, 226-197

2026-01-13

The Republican-controlled House voted 226-197 on Tuesday to pass legislation loosening federal water efficiency standards for showerheads, with 11 Democrats crossing the aisle to advance a bill that would allow stronger water flow from shower nozzles than current federal rules permit. The measure — formally named the Saving Homeowners from Overregulation With Exceptional Rinsing Act, or Shower ACT — is part of a broader House effort to encode President Donald Trump's executive actions into federal law, according to the Associated Press.

Trump holds off on Iran military action, imposes tariffs as talks explored

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump held off on threatened military action against Iran on Monday as the White House said it was exploring private diplomatic outreach from Tehran, even as his administration announced 25% tariffs on countries doing business with the Islamic Republic. The decision came as Iranian security forces continued a violent crackdown on antigovernment protests that has left more than 600 dead and thousands arrested. Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff was identified as the administration's key contact for any talks with Iran.

Wall Street CEOs warn Trump on Fed independence and credit card cap

2026-01-13

Top Wall Street executives warned the White House on Tuesday that President Donald Trump's push to cap credit card interest rates and his administration's investigation of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell will harm, not help, the American economy. Trump did not back down. JPMorgan Chase Chief Executive Jamie Dimon, BNY Chief Executive Robin Vince, and other bank leaders told reporters that threatening the Fed's independence risks pushing interest rates higher — the opposite of Trump's stated affordability goals. The warnings came as major banks reported quarterly earnings and shares of credit card companies fell sharply.

Trump visits Dearborn Ford plant, defends tariffs as voters worry about rising prices

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump toured a Ford Motor Co. assembly plant in Dearborn, Michigan, on Tuesday and addressed the Detroit Economic Club to defend his tariff policy, asserting that import taxes have triggered what he called a domestic manufacturing boom. The visit was Trump's third trip to a swing state in as many months to make the case for his economic record amid persistent voter concern over rising prices. Consumer prices rose 0.3% in December from the prior month, the Labor Department said — the same rate as in November — providing modest evidence that cost pressures are easing but not reversing.

California Democrats advance $10B housing bond as rent-control bid fails

2026-01-13

California lawmakers are advancing a $10 billion bond proposal aimed at building and preserving affordable homes, while a broader effort to curb rent increases failed to advance in the state Assembly on Tuesday. The Senate Housing Committee approved Senate Bill 417 in an 8-1 vote, directing the measure to the Senate Appropriations Committee next week.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore urges vote on congressional map redistricting

2026-01-13

Maryland Democratic Gov. Wes Moore said Wednesday he wants Maryland to move forward with redrawing the state’s congressional map and have the Democratic-controlled legislature vote on the recommendations of a commission he appointed. The call comes as Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson has warned that mid-decade redistricting could jeopardize Democratic seats, including at least one now held by Republican Rep. Andy Harris.

Schumer says Democrats are preparing for Trump to dispute midterms

2026-01-13

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Democrats are preparing for President Donald Trump to “disrupt and dispute” the 2026 midterm elections, arguing Democrats expect voters to reject chaos created by immigration raids in major cities. He made the comments in an edited telephone interview with The Associated Press.

Trump weighs response to Iran crackdown, while announcing 25% tariffs

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump is weighing whether to order U.S. military action against Iran as the Islamic Republic continues a deadly crackdown on protests, the Associated Press reported on Jan. 13. Hours after the White House said Trump is “exploring” messages Tehran has sent privately, Trump announced he would impose 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Iran, effective immediately.

Trump links Greenland claim to Nobel snub, levies tariffs on eight European nations

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump linked his push to take control of Greenland to Norway's decision not to award him the Nobel Peace Prize, releasing a text message to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre stating he no longer felt "an obligation to think purely of Peace." Trump also announced 10 percent import taxes beginning in February on eight European nations that had sided with Denmark over Greenland, including Norway. The White House has not ruled out seizing Greenland by military force, and Denmark's foreign minister said Monday that nothing could be excluded from the range of possible U.S. actions. The confrontation prompted diplomatic responses from Britain, France, and NATO, and drew thousands of Greenlanders into weekend protests.

Trump administration designates three Muslim Brotherhood branches as terrorist organizations

2026-01-13

The Trump administration on Tuesday designated the Lebanese, Jordanian and Egyptian branches of the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organizations, imposing sanctions on each in a move Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the opening of a "sustained effort" to counter the group's activities across the Middle East. The Treasury and State departments announced the joint action against the three chapters, which U.S. officials said pose a risk to the United States and American interests. The Lebanese branch received the most severe label — a foreign terrorist organization designation — making it a federal criminal offense to provide the group with material support.

Trump administration ends Temporary Protected Status for Somali immigrants

2026-01-13

The Trump administration announced Tuesday it will end Temporary Protected Status for Somali immigrants, directing approximately 705 affected individuals to leave the United States by March 17, when existing protections expire. The Department of Homeland Security said the move follows its determination that conditions in Somalia have sufficiently improved to no longer meet the legal threshold for the designation. The announcement adds to a pattern of TPS terminations the administration has pursued across multiple nationalities since President Donald Trump took office.

Clintons refuse House Epstein subpoena as contempt proceedings loom

2026-01-13

Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton said Tuesday they will refuse to comply with a House Oversight Committee subpoena requiring them to testify in its investigation of Jeffrey Epstein, calling the probe "legally invalid." Committee Chairman Rep. James Comer, a Kentucky Republican, said he will open contempt of Congress proceedings against them the following week after Bill Clinton did not appear for a scheduled deposition at House offices Tuesday.

Supreme Court appears set to uphold state bans on transgender athletes

2026-01-13

The Supreme Court's conservative majority appeared ready Tuesday to uphold state laws barring transgender girls and women from competing on school athletic teams, signaling during more than three hours of oral arguments that such bans do not violate either the Constitution or Title IX, the federal law prohibiting sex discrimination in education.

U.S. envoy accuses Russia of 'dangerous escalation' as Trump pushes Ukraine peace

2026-01-13

The United States accused Russia on Monday of a "dangerous and inexplicable escalation" of its nearly four-year war in Ukraine at an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting, singling out Moscow's use of a nuclear-capable hypersonic missile fired near Ukraine's border with NATO ally Poland. U.S. Deputy Ambassador Tammy Bruce condemned Russia's intensifying strikes on energy and other infrastructure and called on all parties to pursue peace seriously.

ACA enrollment falls by 800,000 as enhanced subsidies expire

2026-01-13

About 800,000 fewer Americans have selected Affordable Care Act health insurance plans compared to the same point last year, federal data released Monday shows, as the expiration of enhanced tax credits pushes premiums out of reach for many. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services put total sign-ups at roughly 22.8 million through early January — a 3.5% decline — counting both new enrollees and returning customers who did not renew their plans.

Iran protest death toll reaches 2,571 as Iranians make first calls in days

2026-01-13

The death toll from a government crackdown on nationwide protests in Iran climbed to at least 2,571 early Wednesday, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, as some Iranians were able to place phone calls abroad for the first time in days after authorities severed communications during the unrest.

Microsoft's Brad Smith tells Congress Big Tech must pay AI data center costs

2026-01-13

Brad Smith, Microsoft's president and vice chair, met Tuesday with federal lawmakers to press for an industry-funded model for AI data center expansion, calling on technology companies to bear the full costs of the computing infrastructure powering AI services rather than shifting expenses to taxpayers or utility ratepayers. "Local communities naturally want to see new jobs but not at the expense of higher electricity prices or the diversion of their water," Smith said in an interview with The Associated Press. President Donald Trump aligned with the position Monday evening in a Truth Social post, stating he does not want Americans to "pick up the tab" for data centers or pay higher utility costs.

Jack Smith to testify publicly before House Judiciary on Trump investigations

2026-01-13

Jack Smith, the former Justice Department special counsel who led two criminal investigations into President Donald Trump, is scheduled to testify publicly before the House Judiciary Committee on Jan. 22, the panel's Republican chairman announced Monday. Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio confirmed the hearing during a Fox News interview, and a spokesman for Smith said Tuesday that Smith would appear. The hearing follows a closed-door deposition Smith gave to the same committee last month, a transcript of which has since been released publicly.

DOJ declines civil rights probe into Minneapolis ICE shooting as prosecutors resign

2026-01-13

The Justice Department declined Tuesday to open a criminal civil rights investigation into the fatal shooting of Renee Good by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis, as roughly a half-dozen federal prosecutors in Minnesota announced their resignations. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said in a statement that "there is currently no basis for a criminal civil rights investigation." An FBI investigation into the killing remains ongoing.

California judges allow new U.S. House map for 2026 midterms

2026-01-13

Federal judges ruled Wednesday that California can use a new, voter-approved U.S. House district map for the 2026 election, rejecting efforts by state Republicans and the U.S. Justice Department to block it. In a 2-1 decision by a three-judge panel in Los Angeles, the court denied requests seeking to stop the map from being used in future elections.

Danish official says “fundamental disagreement” with Trump over Greenland

2026-01-13

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen said a “fundamental disagreement” with President Donald Trump over Greenland remains after talks at the White House that included Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rasmussen said the two sides agreed to create a working group to discuss ways to address U.S. security concerns while respecting Denmark’s “red lines.”

Trump’s “Department of War” Pentagon rebrand could cost up to $125M

2026-01-13

The renaming of the Pentagon’s U.S. Department of Defense as the “Department of War” could cost taxpayers up to $125 million, according to an analysis released by the Congressional Budget Office. The executive order authorizing “Department of War” as a secondary title was signed in September by President Donald Trump.

U.S. accuses Russia of 'dangerous escalation' at UN as Trump pursues Ukraine peace

2026-01-13

The United States accused Russia on Monday of a "dangerous and inexplicable escalation" of its nearly four-year war in Ukraine, making the charge at an emergency United Nations Security Council session called by Kyiv after a large-scale Russian bombardment that included the second use of Moscow's nuclear-capable Oreshnik hypersonic missile. U.S. deputy ambassador to the United Nations Tammy Bruce singled out Russia's launch of the Oreshnik ballistic missile near Ukraine's border with Poland, a NATO ally. The session convened as the Trump administration was actively working to advance peace negotiations between the two countries.

Venezuelan families flood political prisoner registry as officer dies before promised release

2026-01-13

Edilson Torres, a 51-year-old Venezuelan police officer held incommunicado since December on what his family described as politically motivated accusations, died of a heart attack Saturday in a Venezuelan prison, just as his family awaited the government's promised release of political detainees. He was buried Tuesday in the rural town of Guanare. Since the U.S. capture of then-President Nicolás Maduro on Jan. 3, hundreds of Venezuelan families who had previously avoided advocacy groups out of fear have come forward to register their relatives as political prisoners with Foro Penal, a nongovernmental organization that tracks detainees, the group's director said.

Justice Department accuses federal judge of abusing power over prosecutor's title

2026-01-13

The Justice Department on Tuesday accused a federal judge of abusing his power after he ordered a Trump-appointed prosecutor to explain why she continues to identify herself as a U.S. Attorney despite a ruling that her appointment was illegal. Attorney General Pam Bondi, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, and Lindsey Halligan co-signed the department's response, calling the court's approach "a gross abuse of power and an affront to the separation of powers."

Smithsonian hands exhibit details to White House amid pressure for upbeat US history

2026-01-13

The Smithsonian Institution on Tuesday gave White House officials new documents detailing its planned exhibits, meeting a deadline set by the Trump administration, which has threatened to withhold federal funding unless the institution presents a more positive portrayal of American history. Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III told staff in an email, obtained by The New York Times and The Washington Post, that "we transmitted more information in response to that request." Bunch added the institution would continue to engage by providing "relevant and appropriate materials."

Judge says Trump administration illegally targeted clean energy grants

2026-01-13

A federal judge ruled Monday that the Trump administration acted illegally when it canceled $7.6 billion in clean energy grants for projects in states that supported Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris in 2024. The decision by U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta said the terminations violated the Constitution’s equal protection requirements.

Trump administration restores family planning funding after ACLU dismissal

2026-01-13

The Trump administration restored federal funding for family planning after an American Civil Liberties Union lawsuit, the ACLU said Wednesday. The lawsuit had challenged the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ decision to pause Title X funding for dozens of family-planning organizations.

Trump administration threatens Minnesota with federal funds freezes

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump’s administration is threatening to withhold billions in federal money from Minnesota and is pursuing legal action, as the state faces multiple freezes affecting programs that benefit low-income families. The moves include suspensions tied to agriculture grants, planned reductions in Medicaid payments, and a separate legal fight over child-care and other social-services funding.

Hochul's State of the State pitches affordability agenda to unite divided Democrats

2026-01-13

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul used her annual State of the State address Tuesday in Albany to unveil a reelection-year agenda built around child care, immigration enforcement limits, transit security, and restrictions on protests near houses of worship — an attempt to appeal simultaneously to the Democratic Party's progressive and moderate wings ahead of a contested election. Hochul, a centrist from Buffalo, delivered the address before a packed crowd at The Egg, a domed theater adjacent to the state Capitol.

Pentagon to deploy Musk's Grok AI inside defense networks alongside Google

2026-01-13

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Monday that Elon Musk's Grok artificial intelligence chatbot will operate inside Pentagon networks alongside Google's generative AI engine, as part of a broad effort to feed military and intelligence data into AI systems. Hegseth made the announcement during a speech at Musk's SpaceX facility in South Texas, saying Grok would go live inside Defense Department systems later this month. The announcement came days after Grok drew international condemnation for generating sexualized deepfake images of people without their consent.

Wisconsin Gov. Evers questions lieutenant governor's ICE enforcement proposal

2026-01-13

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers on Monday questioned whether his lieutenant governor's proposal to ban federal immigration enforcement near schools, hospitals and other sensitive locations was legally achievable — or politically wise. Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, a Democrat running in the state's open gubernatorial race, proposed barring civil Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions around courthouses, health clinics, daycares, schools, domestic violence shelters and houses of worship, with exceptions for judicial warrants or immediate public safety threats. Evers, who is not seeking a third term, said he was uncertain the state had the authority to act and warned that a hard prohibition could provoke a stronger federal response.

Michigan's vanity plate ban list tops 30,000 after adding 2,000 rejections in 2025

2026-01-13

Michigan's list of banned personalized license plates surpassed 30,000 entries for the first time last year, with the state adding roughly 2,000 new rejections in 2025, according to records obtained by Bridge Michigan through a public records request under the state Freedom of Information Act. The disclosure shows how a quietly growing state screening operation — staffed by more than two dozen volunteers — has kept pace with drivers' increasingly creative attempts to sneak profanity and other prohibited content past reviewers.

Hawai'i clears 1,321 arrest records automatically in pilot; 432,000 still eligible

2026-01-13

Hawai'i's attorney general office completed the first year of a pilot program that automatically cleared 1,321 marijuana and low-level drug arrest records on the Big Island without requiring residents to file applications, according to a report submitted to the state Legislature in December. The records belonged to Hawai'i County residents who were charged with possessing less than one ounce of marijuana or a similarly classified drug but were never convicted. About 432,000 people statewide — roughly one-third of Hawai'i's population — have at least one arrest record eligible for expungement, state data show, yet fewer than 1,500 apply through the existing petition process each year, the attorney general's office reported.

Hawaiʻi lawmakers weigh adding written tests to driver’s license renewals

2026-01-13

Hawaiʻi lawmakers are considering requiring some drivers to take written refresher tests when renewing their licenses, after a rise in statewide traffic deaths, the Honolulu Civil Beat reported and the Associated Press distributed. The proposal would be discussed first in a Thursday Honolulu City Council committee meeting.

Montana to decide soon what to do with governor’s Carson Street mansion

2026-01-13

Montana’s vacant governor’s mansion near the state Capitol is deteriorating badly enough that officials are asking the public what to do with the property, with a decision process expected soon. A survey completed last month presented options including demolition and turning the site into a park, remodeling for another use, or selling the mansion.

Pentagon to bring Musk’s Grok chatbot into defense networks, Hegseth says

2026-01-13

Pentagon’s Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Monday that Elon Musk’s AI chatbot Grok will be added to the Pentagon’s Google generative-AI engine and run inside Department of Defense networks. Hegseth said Grok is expected to go live later this month. The announcement follows days of global criticism of Grok after it generated sexualized deepfake images without consent, and after regulators and other governments moved to restrict its use.

Louisiana seeks extradition of California doctor over mailed abortion pills

2026-01-13

Louisiana moved Tuesday to extradite a San Francisco Bay Area physician charged with mailing abortion pills to a state resident, the second time Louisiana has sought to prosecute a provider from a jurisdiction with laws shielding such doctors from out-of-state criminal charges. Dr. Remy Coeytaux faces a criminal charge of abortion by means of abortion-inducing drugs, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill announced. If convicted, Coeytaux could face up to 50 years in prison and fines, Murrill said.

Former NYC official pleads not guilty to federal bribery charges

2026-01-13

Tony Herbert, 61, who served as City Hall's liaison to New York City's public housing residents under former Mayor Eric Adams, pleaded not guilty Tuesday to federal charges of bribery, kickbacks, and fraud in Manhattan federal court. He was released on $50,000 bail after his arrest, according to the Associated Press.

Minneapolis U.S. citizens describe ICE detention, pressure to inform on protest organizers

2026-01-13

Two Minneapolis U.S. citizens who were monitoring Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities said they were detained without charge Sunday, held for several hours at a federal facility on the edge of the city, and pressed by a Department of Homeland Security investigator to identify protest organizers and neighbors living in the country without legal status, the Associated Press reported. Brandon Sigüenza and Patty O'Keefe said agents pepper-sprayed their car and smashed its windows before transporting them separately to the facility; both were released without charges that evening, then subjected to chemical agents again as they exited.

NYC Council employee arrested at asylum check-in, sparking protests and legal fight

2026-01-13

A New York City Council data analyst from Venezuela was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Monday at a scheduled asylum check-in on Long Island, triggering protests at the Manhattan federal building where he is being held and a sharply contested dispute over whether the detention was lawful. Rafael Andres Rubio Bohorquez was taken into custody at a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services asylum office in Bethpage while appearing for what Council Speaker Julie Menin described as a routine appointment that "quickly went awry." ICE confirmed the arrest and identified him by name; Menin had declined to name him publicly.

Detainee drops Alligator Alcatraz lawsuit, agrees to deportation to Chile

2026-01-13

A man held at the Florida Everglades immigration detention center known as "Alligator Alcatraz" agreed to be deported to Chile and filed a motion Monday to dismiss his federal lawsuit challenging the facility, his attorneys said Tuesday. The detainee, identified in court documents only as M.A., was one of three people with active federal suits against the facility built last year at a remote Everglades airstrip by the administration of Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Ohio honors dog-attack survivor Avery Russell, 12, as Avery's Law takes effect March 18

2026-01-13

Licking County commissioners and state lawmakers honored Avery Russell, a 12-year-old dog-attack survivor from Blacklick, and Licking County Chief Dog Warden Larry Williams at a ceremony Jan. 8 in Newark, Ohio, marking the December passage of Avery's Law — a bipartisan measure Gov. Mike DeWine signed Dec. 19 that gives Ohio's county dog wardens significantly stronger tools to address dangerous animals. The law takes effect March 18 and imposes criminal penalties on owners whose dogs attack without provocation, grants wardens authority to seize an animal immediately after an attack, and mandates euthanization — following due process — when a dog kills or seriously injures a person.

Trump threatens to halt federal payments to sanctuary cities and their states

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump announced Tuesday that his administration will halt federal payments to sanctuary cities and all states that contain them beginning Feb. 1, expanding a campaign to use financial pressure against jurisdictions that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Speaking at the Detroit Economic Club in Michigan, Trump said he would cut off money to any state home to a local government that resists his administration's immigration policies. He did not specify which funding streams would be affected.

Claudette Colvin, civil rights pioneer who refused Montgomery bus seat in 1955, dies at 86

2026-01-13

Claudette Colvin, who at age 15 was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a segregated Montgomery, Alabama, bus — nine months before Rosa Parks' more widely recognized act of defiance — died Tuesday at 86. Her death was announced by the Claudette Colvin Legacy Foundation; Ashley D. Roseboro of the organization confirmed she died of natural causes in Texas.

New York AG settles with Betar US over harassment of pro-Palestinian activists

2026-01-13

New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a settlement Tuesday with Betar US, a right-wing Jewish group she accused of conducting an illegal pattern of harassment against pro-Palestinian activists in the New York City metropolitan area. The agreement requires the group to stop activities that threaten or intimidate Muslim, Jewish and Palestinian activists at protests and on social media, with a $50,000 penalty for any violation.

ICE's administrative warrants don't authorize forced home entry, legal experts say

2026-01-13

Federal immigration agents conducting arrests under the Trump administration's intensified enforcement campaign are relying primarily on administrative warrants that do not legally authorize them to force entry into private homes or businesses, legal experts said. Only criminal warrants signed by judges carry that authority — a distinction that came into sharp focus in Minneapolis, where documents reviewed by the Associated Press showed agents entered a private home with only an administrative warrant. DHS did not provide a legal justification for the entry when asked.

FDA orders removal of suicide warnings from GLP-1 weight-loss drugs

2026-01-13

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday directed Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly to remove label warnings about potential suicidal thoughts and behaviors from their blockbuster weight-loss medications, saying a comprehensive review found no elevated risk.

EPA drops health-benefit calculations from air pollution rules under Trump

2026-01-13

The Environmental Protection Agency said Monday it will stop calculating the monetary value of lives saved and health care costs avoided when setting standards for fine particulate matter and ozone, ending a decades-long practice used by administrations of both parties to justify clean-air rules.

EPA proposes limits on state Clean Water Act authority for pipelines and data centers

2026-01-13

The Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday proposed new constraints on states' and Native American tribes' authority to block or impose conditions on pipelines, dams, and other major infrastructure projects through water quality reviews under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. The proposed rule would narrow the scope of those reviews and impose strict deadlines, reversing Biden-era rules that allowed broader environmental evaluation.

Nebraska Sen. McKeon resigns ahead of expulsion vote over harassment allegations

2026-01-13

State Sen. Dan McKeon resigned from the Nebraska Legislature on Tuesday just minutes before the full chamber was set to debate expelling him over accusations that he made a sexually charged comment to a legislative staffer and touched her inappropriately during a session-end party last May. McKeon, a Republican from rural south-central Nebraska who had served less than one year in office, delivered a tearful apology on the legislative floor before stepping down. "My words and actions were careless, regardless of the intent," McKeon said. "I accept my responsibility for the impact of my words and my actions."

Arizona State Museum charts three-building path as regents stall $50M repair request

2026-01-13

The University of Arizona is pursuing a three-building plan to partially reopen the Arizona State Museum without depending on a $50 million funding request that the Arizona Board of Regents declined in 2024, university officials said. The museum, which holds artifacts spanning more than 13,000 years of cultural history and has been closed to the public since August 2024, could see its South Building reopened once archaeological collections are relocated off campus.

South Korea prosecutor seeks death sentence for Yoon over martial law rebellion

2026-01-13

SEOUL — An independent counsel demanded the death penalty Tuesday for former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, asking the Seoul Central District Court to sentence him on rebellion charges tied to his short-lived martial law decree in December 2024. Independent Counsel Cho Eun-suk's team described the decree as "anti-state activities" and "a self-coup," alleging that Yoon plotted to eliminate his political rivals and monopolize power. Yoon, who was removed from office in April 2025 and remains in jail, faces eight separate criminal trials related to the martial law episode and other allegations from his tenure. He denies all charges.

Trump tells Iranian protesters 'help is on its way' as U.S. weighs options

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump told Iranian protesters "help is on its way" and cut off talks with the Iranian government on Tuesday, as his administration weighed options including military strikes in response to a crackdown that rights monitors say has killed more than 2,500 people since demonstrations began Dec. 28.

DNC commits millions to bring voter registration under party control

2026-01-13

The Democratic National Committee announced Tuesday it will spend millions of dollars to shift control of voter registration efforts from nonprofit advocacy groups to the party itself, starting in Arizona and Nevada with at least $2 million for training organizers ahead of this year's midterm elections.

Former CEO charged with embezzling $5.2M from Paul Newman's camp for ill children

2026-01-13

The former chief executive of a California camp for children with chronic and life-threatening medical conditions faces 15 felony counts after prosecutors alleged he embezzled approximately $5.2 million from the nonprofit over seven years. Christopher L. Butler, 49, of Porter Ranch, California, was expected to be arraigned Thursday in Los Angeles County Superior Court. The Painted Turtle, based in Lake Hughes, California, is one of several camps for seriously ill children co-founded by the late actor Paul Newman.

NYC Mayor Mamdani moves into Gracie Mansion, leaving Queens apartment behind

2026-01-13

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his wife Rama Duwaji moved into Gracie Mansion on Monday, trading their flood-prone, one-bedroom rental in Astoria, Queens, for the city's 11,000-square-foot official mayoral residence on the Upper East Side of Manhattan — complete with a private chef, an ornate ballroom, and a veranda overlooking the East River.

Federal agents deploy tear gas in Minneapolis as five prosecutors resign over Renee Good case

2026-01-13

Federal officers deployed tear gas and sprayed an orange eye irritant at activists in Minneapolis on Tuesday, the sixth day of confrontations following the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an immigration agent. Students in suburban Brooklyn Park walked out of school to protest the Trump administration's immigration enforcement campaign. At least five prosecutors have resigned from the Minnesota U.S. Attorney's Office, including First Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson, who had been leading the state's prosecution of public fraud schemes, amid controversy over how the Justice Department is handling the investigation into Good's death, according to people familiar with the matter. A Justice Department official said Wednesday there is no basis for a criminal civil rights investigation; an FBI probe remains ongoing.

Activist denies Costa Rica plot to assassinate President Chaves

2026-01-13

A Costa Rican activist and government critic accused of plotting to kill President Rodrigo Chaves denied the allegations as “ridiculous” and politically motivated. Stella Chinchilla, vice president of the human rights group Friends for Peace Center, said screenshots used in the case were fake. The accusations come as Chaves met with El Salvador President Nayib Bukele during the groundbreaking for a new Costa Rican prison modeled on Bukele’s gang prison.

Anchorage officials propose one-time education tax for April ballot

2026-01-13

Anchorage city leaders are proposing a one-time tax increase to raise millions for the Anchorage School District, which faces an $83 million budget shortfall, officials said. Mayor Suzanne LaFrance said Monday she is asking the Assembly to set aside a slate of revenue proposals, including her office’s proposed 3% sales tax, to focus on a $12 million education tax levy. If the Assembly approves the levy, city officials say it would appear on the April city ballot.

Colombian ELN calls for “national accord” as US-Maduro fallout raises pressure

2026-01-13

Colombia’s National Liberation Army, or ELN, called for a “national accord” aimed at overcoming political disputes as it faces pressure from both the Colombian government and the United States. The rebel group said it wants to work with Colombia’s new government after this year’s elections, including agreements to defeat poverty, protect ecosystems and overcome the drug trade in rural areas.

Court filing says Georgia law used for Trump fee request likely unconstitutional

2026-01-13

A nonpartisan group backing Georgia prosecutors says a state law being used in the dismissed Fulton County election interference case is likely unconstitutional. In a Wednesday filing, Pete Skandalakis of the Georgia Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council said the law has “serious and potentially unconstitutional deficiencies,” including limits it places on county governments’ ability to contest fee and cost requests.

DeLauro slams HHS after SAMHSA grant cuts then reversals

2026-01-13

A top House Democrat on Wednesday criticized the Trump administration for canceling thousands of substance-abuse and mental health grants and then reversing course, after some recipients said they began cutting staff. Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut, ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee, said the decision-making by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. was “dangerous and haphazard.”

DHS rule change aims to shorten wait times for religious worker visas

2026-01-13

The Department of Homeland Security announced a regulatory change aimed at reducing visa wait times abroad for religious workers serving U.S. congregations. The rule also eliminates a requirement that some R-1 religious workers leave the United States for one year after hitting a five-year visa maximum, though they would still need to depart and be able to apply to re-enter right away.

EEUU suspende procesamiento de visas de inmigrante para ciudadanos de 75 países

2026-01-13

El Departamento de Estado de Estados Unidos anunció que suspenderá el procesamiento de visas de inmigrante para ciudadanos de 75 países a partir del 21 de enero, medida que el gobierno del presidente Donald Trump vincula con evitar entradas de personas que podrían necesitar asistencia pública en el país. La suspensión no aplica a visas de no inmigrante, incluidas las de turista o negocios. La decisión llega tras una orden más amplia emitida en noviembre que endureció las reglas para posibles “cargas públicas”.

FDA orders Wegovy, Zepbound label changes removing suicide warnings

2026-01-13

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration ordered drugmakers Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly to remove label warnings about potential suicidal thoughts and behaviors from their GLP-1 weight-loss medications, the agency said Tuesday. The FDA said it completed a review and found no increased suicide risk among users of the obesity GLP-1 drugs, including Wegovy and Saxenda and Zepbound.

Federal immigration agents face backlash over private property raids

2026-01-13

Federal immigration agents are facing renewed backlash as high-profile arrests, including in Minneapolis, have raised questions about when officers can enter private property to make an arrest. At the center of the debate is a distinction between administrative warrants issued by immigration authorities and judicial warrants signed by judges. When agents have only an administrative warrant, legal experts say federal officers generally cannot forcibly enter homes or other nonpublic spaces without consent.

Georgia special election field includes 22 candidates for Greene’s seat

2026-01-13

Former U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned earlier this month, setting up a Georgia special election to choose her successor in Congress. Qualifying for the race closed Wednesday with 22 candidates—17 Republicans, three Democrats, one Libertarian and one independent—set to appear on the same all-party ballot.

HHS reinstates laid-off NIOSH workers after legal and political pressure

2026-01-13

Federal officials are reinstating hundreds of NIOSH workers who were laid off last year from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, a workplace safety agency, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services confirmed Wednesday. The American Federation of Government Employees said the administration rescinded all terminations for NIOSH and parts of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Justice Dept accuses judge of abusing power in challenging Halligan

2026-01-13

The Justice Department has accused a federal judge of abusing his power by pressing a Trump appointee, Lindsey Halligan, to explain why she still identifies as a U.S. attorney for Virginia after a court ruled she was illegally appointed. The dispute has become a separation-of-powers fight over how federal courts should handle Halligan’s continued use of the title.

Malaysia, Indonesia block Grok over sexualized AI image concerns

2026-01-13

Malaysia and Indonesia have blocked access to Grok, the AI chatbot from Elon Musk’s xAI, becoming the first countries to do so over concerns that it is being used to generate sexually explicit and nonconsensual images. The governments cited worries about fake pornographic content, including images involving minors, and said controls have not been sufficient.

Oglala Sioux Tribe president urges release of Minneapolis ICE detainees

2026-01-13

The president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe called Tuesday for the immediate release of three Oglala Sioux tribal citizens detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Minneapolis, after the tribe said they were transferred to an ICE facility at Fort Snelling. Frank Star Comes Out said in a statement that only one of the four tribal members arrested last week at a homeless encampment has been released.

Renee Good’s family hires George Floyd law firm to seek ICE shooting answers

2026-01-13

Renee Good’s family hired the Chicago law firm Romanucci & Blandin to investigate her death in Minneapolis after an encounter with federal immigration officers, according to a statement from the family released Wednesday. The family said the firm will seek information and accountability, including answers about what officers were doing on Jan. 7 and what happened during and after the shooting.

Thousands protest in Bulgaria in push for fair election as early vote looms

2026-01-13

Thousands of people protested Wednesday in Sofia, Bulgaria, calling for a fair election as the country appears headed toward an early vote. The protesters said they want voting free of manipulation, vote buying and falsification of results, and they argued that the refusal of the outgoing government to introduce machine voting would be another attempt to tamper with the outcome.

Trump says killing of Iran protesters has stopped amid Tehran signals executions

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump said at the White House on Wednesday that he has been told “the killing in Iran is stopping” and that “there’s no plan for executions” by Tehran. His remarks came as Iranian officials and U.S. officials warned of fast trials and executions tied to the nationwide crackdown on protesters.

Trump signs bill allowing whole milk again in school lunches nationwide

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump signed a law Wednesday that overturns Obama-era limits on higher-fat milk options in school lunches, allowing participating schools to serve whole and 2% milk alongside required lower-fat products. The change could take effect as soon as this fall, officials said, and affects meals served through the National School Lunch Program to about 30 million students.

U.S. apologizes for deporting Massachusetts student despite court order

2026-01-13

The U.S. government apologized in federal court for a “mistake” in the deportation of a Massachusetts college student who was detained while trying to fly home for Thanksgiving, according to a government statement in the case. The government said the error did not have to affect the legal outcome even after acknowledging it violated a judge’s order.

US citizens arrested by ICE in Minneapolis describe detention conditions

2026-01-13

Two U.S. citizens who said they were observing Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers in Minneapolis described being detained without charges for several hours at a highly restricted federal facility and pressured to provide information about protest organizers and people they said were in the country illegally. Brandon Sigüenza and Patty O’Keefe spoke with The Associated Press about what they said happened during Sunday stops by federal agents.

US to pause immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries

2026-01-13

The U.S. Department of State said it will suspend immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, starting Jan. 21, as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to tighten entry rules tied to public assistance. The suspension will cover countries including Afghanistan, Iran, Russia and Somalia, and State Department officials said the pause is tied to a broader order issued in November that tightened “public charge” screening.

Venezuela’s acting president vows to continue releasing prisoners

2026-01-13

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez said her government will continue releasing prisoners detained under former President Nicolás Maduro’s rule, framing it as a “new political moment” after the U.S. captured Maduro in early January. Speaking at her first press briefing since Maduro’s seizure, Rodríguez said the process “has not yet concluded” and pledged “strict” enforcement of the law.

Washington crime victim advocates urge state funding as VOCA falls

2026-01-13

Crime victim service providers in Washington are pressing the state for more funding after federal Victims of Crime Act awards fell sharply, leaving some shelters and child-advocacy programs cut back or at risk. The Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence and other groups warn that without additional state money, services that help sexual-assault and domestic-violence survivors could keep shrinking after July when the next state fiscal year begins.

Zohran Mamdani starts moving into Gracie Mansion, leaving Queens

2026-01-13

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and his wife Rama Duwaji began moving into Gracie Mansion on Monday, leaving behind their one-bedroom apartment in Queens. City workers unloaded boxes as the mayor marked the move with a press conference on the mansion’s riverfront lawn.

Christian influencers draw young adults with Bible-centered online content

2026-01-13

A new generation of Christian influencers is gaining audiences online by discussing faith on topics that young people say are often left unanswered in traditional church settings. In interviews, influencers including Megan Ashley, Lecrae Moore and the hosts of “Girls Gone Bible” said they aim to meet audiences with practical guidance and personal testimony.

Supreme Court revives GOP challenge to Illinois late mail-ballot law

2026-01-13

The Supreme Court on Wednesday revived a Republican challenge to an Illinois law that allows late-arriving mail ballots to be counted, in a dispute that has drawn attention from President Donald Trump. In a 7-2 decision, the majority said candidates can sue over election rules even without showing their votes changed the outcome. The court did not decide whether late-arriving mail-in ballots should be counted, and instead said it will hear another case on the broader question this spring.

DeSantis appoints Adam Tanenbaum to Florida Supreme Court

2026-01-13

Ron DeSantis named Adam Tanenbaum, a judge on Florida’s First District Court of Appeal, to the state Supreme Court on Wednesday. Tanenbaum, who spoke at Seminole High School in the St. Petersburg area, pledged to follow “originalism” and said judges should not fear correcting what he called an erroneous interpretation of text.

Democrats say Trump DOJ is investigating lawmakers over Iraq video

2026-01-13

Democratic lawmakers who urged U.S. service members to resist “illegal orders” in a video message say they have been contacted by the Justice Department in an escalating probe. The lawmakers include Sen. Elissa Slotkin and House members Jason Crow, Chrissy Houlahan, and Maggie Goodlander, who said prosecutors reached out for interviews in recent days.

Democrats see a narrow path to win the Senate in November

2026-01-13

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Democratic leaders said they see a path to winning the majority in November, but warned it is narrow and leaves little room for error. The party received fresh momentum this week after former Rep. Mary Peltola announced she will run for Senate in Alaska, one of several battlegrounds Democrats must win to net four seats. Republican leaders, meanwhile, pointed to the states that Donald Trump carried in 2024 and said Democrats face enormous hurdles.

Trump picks Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry as special envoy on Greenland

2026-01-13

President Donald Trump has selected Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry as a special envoy to discuss Greenland with officials in Washington, after Trump renewed his public view that the United States should take action on the Arctic island. Landry, appointed in December, has said he is not interested in meeting diplomats and plans travel that includes attending a dogsled race in March, his spokesperson said.

Way cleared for Nvidia to sell H200 AI chips to China under new rules

2026-01-13

The Trump administration has cleared Nvidia to sell its H200 artificial intelligence chips to China, but only with new export conditions, the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security said. The rules require a third-party review before exports and limit how much China can import relative to what the company sells to U.S. customers. The decision follows Trump’s earlier signal that licenses would go to “approved customers.”

Iran protest death toll reaches 646 as Trump orders tariffs, cites diplomacy

2026-01-12

U.S. President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on all countries doing business with Iran on Monday and said Tehran has privately sought talks with Washington, as the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported that at least 646 people had been killed in two weeks of protests against the Iranian government. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, speaking to foreign diplomats in Tehran, said the protest situation was "under total control" and that Iran was "open to diplomacy," while blaming the United States and Israel for the violence without offering evidence. Iran's foreign ministry said a diplomatic channel to Washington remained open but insisted talks could not be one-sided.

Congress members blocked from Minneapolis ICE facility after DHS reinstates access ban

2026-01-12

Three Democratic members of Congress were blocked from visiting an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility near Minneapolis on Saturday after Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem secretly reinstated a congressional access restriction one day after an ICE officer fatally shot U.S. citizen Renee Good in the city, attorneys for the lawmakers said. U.S. Reps. Ilhan Omar, Kelly Morrison and Angie Craig were initially allowed to enter the ICE facility in the Minneapolis federal building before officials told them to leave roughly 10 minutes later, citing a newly imposed seven-day notice requirement for oversight visits. Attorneys for several congressional Democrats asked U.S. District Judge Jia Cobb in Washington, D.C., on Monday to hold an emergency hearing on whether the reinstated policy violates a December court order. Cobb scheduled the hearing for Wednesday.

Trump DOJ threatens Powell with criminal charges in escalating battle over Fed independence

2026-01-12

The Trump administration's Justice Department threatened Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell with criminal indictment over testimony he gave about the central bank's headquarters renovation, escalating a months-long campaign to exert greater control over the institution and its interest-rate decisions, the Associated Press reported. Powell, in a departure from his previous responses to Trump administration pressure, called the criminal charge threat mere "pretexts" to undermine the Fed's independence on rate policy.

Republican senators and ex-Fed chairs rally against DOJ investigation of Powell

2026-01-12

The Trump administration's criminal investigation of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell drew swift condemnation Monday from Republican senators, three former Fed chairs, and a coalition of top economists, who called the Justice Department's subpoenas an unprecedented attempt to use prosecutorial power to undermine the central bank's independence.

DOJ threatens Powell with criminal indictment as Trump escalates pressure on the Fed

2026-01-12

The Justice Department threatened Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell with criminal indictment over his congressional testimony about the central bank's building renovation project, Powell said Sunday — a move he characterized as a "pretext" to undermine the Fed's independence in setting interest rates. The threat, disclosed as U.S. financial markets opened broadly lower Monday, represents the administration's most direct legal challenge yet to the institutional autonomy of the country's central bank.

Trump administration targets political opponents; Powell and Fed the latest

2026-01-12

The Justice Department has subpoenaed the Federal Reserve and threatened criminal indictments of Chair Jerome Powell after his Senate Banking Committee testimony defending the central bank's independence, Powell said Sunday in a video statement. Powell, whom President Donald Trump appointed as Fed chair in 2017, called the action a "pretext" to weaken the Fed's historic independence to set monetary policy without presidential influence. Trump told NBC News over the weekend that he knew nothing about the inquiry.

Trump DOJ subpoenas Federal Reserve, threatens Powell with criminal indictment

2026-01-12

The Trump administration's Justice Department has subpoenaed the Federal Reserve and threatened Fed Chair Jerome Powell with criminal indictment, escalating the president's confrontation with the independent central bank over cost overruns in a $2.5 billion renovation of its Washington headquarters. Powell, abandoning an earlier posture of publicly ignoring Trump's criticism, said Sunday that the criminal-charges threat is a "pretext" for the administration to seize control of U.S. interest rate policy. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that Trump did not direct the Justice Department to investigate Powell; Trump said on NBC News that he knew nothing about the investigation.

DOJ subpoenas Federal Reserve, threatens Powell with criminal indictment

2026-01-12

The Department of Justice has served the Federal Reserve with subpoenas and threatened Chair Jerome Powell with criminal indictment over his June testimony about the central bank's $2.5 billion office renovation, Powell announced Sunday. Powell called the threat a "pretext" to coerce the Fed into setting interest rates at the president's direction rather than based on economic evidence. The move represents an unprecedented escalation in President Donald Trump's sustained campaign against the independent monetary authority.

Canadian PM Mark Carney to meet Xi in bid to rebuild ties with China

2026-01-12

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney is visiting China for the first time in nearly a decade, aiming to rebuild ties with President Xi Jinping amid new U.S. tariff pressure. Carney arrives in Beijing on Wednesday, with meetings scheduled with Xi on Friday and other Chinese officials before the trip ends Saturday.

Central bankers back Fed Chair Powell amid Trump feud over Fed independence

2026-01-12

Central bankers from around the world said Tuesday they “stand in full solidarity” with Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell as President Donald Trump escalated his confrontation with the Fed, including a Justice Department investigation and threats of criminal charges. The heads of nine national central banks, including European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde and Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey, issued a statement supporting the Fed’s independence and emphasizing rule of law and democratic accountability.

Trump admin threatens criminal charges over Powell testimony, AP reports

2026-01-12

The U.S. Justice Department has threatened the Federal Reserve with a criminal accusation tied to testimony by Fed Chair Jerome Powell this summer, according to an Associated Press report published Jan. 12. The threat is described as part of an effort by the Trump administration to exert more control over the Fed’s independence.

Trump visits Ford in Michigan to defend tariffs and tout economic plan

2026-01-12

President Donald Trump visited a Ford factory floor in Dearborn, Michigan, on Tuesday to defend his sweeping tariffs and argue they have boosted domestic manufacturing. At the Detroit Economic Club and later at the MotorCity Casino, he linked his economic message to concerns about job weakness and higher prices. <a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-michigan-manufacturing-8843cdb26cdfcdf9bf8c8273823c6d84">Associated Press reported</a> the trip came as Democrats pressed his record and voters remained worried about the economy.

Wall Street warns Trump as he proposes credit card rate cap

2026-01-12

Wall Street executives urged President Donald Trump to stop attacking the Federal Reserve and the credit card industry after the administration proposed a one-year 10% cap on credit card interest rates. The comments came as Trump said he was not backing down, and as major banks reported quarterly results.

Bipartisan lawmakers head to Denmark as Trump presses Greenland claim

2026-01-12

A bipartisan group of at least nine U.S. lawmakers is traveling to Copenhagen this week to affirm American commitment to Denmark as President Donald Trump continues to press his administration's push to acquire Greenland, with the White House considering a range of options that include military force. Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware is leading the delegation, which includes Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina.

Trump's redistricting push reaches a crossroads as new legislative sessions begin

2026-01-12

President Donald Trump's unusual mid-decade redistricting campaign stands at a pivotal moment as state legislative sessions open this week, with Virginia Democrats and Florida Republicans preparing to press forward even as resistance in several other targeted states suggests the movement may have lost momentum. Indiana's Republican-led Senate dealt the effort its sharpest setback in December, defeating a plan that could have helped the GOP win all nine of the state's U.S. House seats.

Sen. Kelly sues Pentagon over censure for video urging troops to resist unlawful orders

2026-01-12

Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona sued the Pentagon on Monday, seeking to block a censure issued by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and halt proceedings that could strip the retired Navy captain of his military rank and cut his retirement pay. Kelly, a former U.S. Navy pilot, filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., arguing that the Jan. 5 censure violated his First Amendment rights by punishing him for participating in a video that called on troops to refuse unlawful orders from the Trump administration. Kelly asked the court to declare the censure, any rank-reduction proceedings, and all related punishments "unlawful and unconstitutional." U.S. District Judge Leon, nominated by Republican President George W. Bush, scheduled a hearing for Thursday on Kelly's request for a temporary restraining order.

Judge rules Trump illegally canceled $7.6 billion in clean energy grants to Democratic states

2026-01-12

A federal judge ruled Monday that the Trump administration acted illegally when it canceled $7.6 billion in clean energy grants for projects exclusively in states that voted for Democrat Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election. U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta found the terminations violated the Constitution's equal protection clause, saying the administration offered no legitimate basis for targeting recipients based on their states' electoral preferences. The decision was the second federal court ruling in a single day to halt the administration's rollback of clean energy programs.

Cuba's Díaz-Canel denies US talks after Trump issues deal-or-else threat

2026-01-12

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel said Monday that his government is not in negotiations with the United States, a day after President Donald Trump warned Cuba to "make a deal, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE." Trump's message followed a U.S. military operation on Jan. 3 that killed 32 Cuban officers in Venezuela and led to the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro. Díaz-Canel wrote in posts on X that any future dialogue must be grounded in "international law rather than hostility, threats, and economic coercion."

Trump motorcade rerouted in Florida after suspicious object found at airport

2026-01-12

President Donald Trump's motorcade took an alternate route to Palm Beach International Airport on Sunday after a suspicious object was discovered during pre-arrival security sweeps, the White House said. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said further investigation of the object prompted the route change.

Peltola enters Alaska Senate race, challenging GOP incumbent Sullivan

2026-01-12

Former U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola, the first Alaska Native to serve in Congress, announced Monday she will challenge Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan in Alaska's 2026 midterm Senate race. Peltola, a Yup'ik Democrat, framed her candidacy around economic pressures facing Alaskans — particularly in rural communities where high transportation costs push the price of basic goods to extremes. "Life is difficult here, and we know that we have to take care of each other," Peltola said in a video announcement.

Clintons refuse subpoena in House Epstein probe as contempt looms

2026-01-12

Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said they will refuse to comply with a congressional subpoena to testify in a House committee investigation of Jeffrey Epstein, even as Republican lawmakers prepare contempt proceedings. The Clintons said in a letter released on social media that the House Oversight probe is “legally invalid” and that Rep. James Comer is pursuing a process designed “literally” to imprison them.

Costa Rica investigates alleged plot to assassinate President Chaves

2026-01-12

Costa Rica’s intelligence and national security director said his agency received confidential information about a supposed plot to assassinate President Rodrigo Chaves ahead of Feb. 1 presidential and legislative elections. Jorge Torres said he planned to file a formal complaint with the public prosecutor’s office and told journalists he would not provide details beyond what was needed for the record.

Fewer Americans sign up for ACA plans as expanded subsidies expire

2026-01-12

Fewer Americans have selected Affordable Care Act health insurance plans this year as expiring enhanced tax credits and other factors raise costs for many people, according to new federal data. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services reported Monday that about 800,000 fewer people have chosen plans compared with the same point last year, a 3.5% drop in total ACA enrollment.

Jack Smith to testify publicly before House panel on Jan. 22

2026-01-12

Former Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith is set to testify publicly before the House Judiciary Committee next week about his investigations into President Donald Trump, the panel’s Republican chairman said. Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio told Fox News that Smith would appear on Jan. 22, and Smith’s spokesman confirmed the hearing.

Israel recognizes Somaliland, drawing uproar, threats and regional warnings

2026-01-12

Israel’s recognition of breakaway Somaliland has triggered uproar in the Horn of Africa and the Middle East, with Somali leaders warning it threatens their country’s sovereignty. The move also has raised security concerns as regional rivals and groups in the area respond to a new factor in power struggles.

Marine Le Pen appeal trial opens in Paris as political future hangs

2026-01-12

Marine Le Pen appeared in a Paris court on Tuesday to appeal her embezzlement conviction, denying any wrongdoing as the far-right leader seeks to keep her 2027 presidential bid alive. She is asking the panel to overturn a March ruling that found her guilty of misusing European Parliament funds to hire aides between 2004 and 2016.

Supreme Court appears poised to uphold state bans on trans athletes

2026-01-12

The U.S. Supreme Court appeared Tuesday to be ready to uphold state laws barring transgender girls and women from playing on school sports teams, in a fight tied to federal education civil-rights law. During more than three hours of arguments, justices from the court’s conservative majority signaled the bans likely do not violate the Constitution or Title IX.

Trump administration sanctions Muslim Brotherhood branches in Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt

2026-01-12

President Donald Trump’s administration on Tuesday labeled three branches of the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organizations, imposing sanctions on the groups and their members. The Treasury and State departments announced the actions against the Lebanese, Jordanian and Egyptian chapters, saying they pose a risk to U.S. interests.

Trump’s Greenland security remarks draw pushback on Arctic claims

2026-01-12

U.S. President Donald Trump has made Greenland a focus of his second term, framing control of the self-governing Danish territory as a national security priority while repeating claims about Chinese and Russian military activity near the island. In a recent statement, he said “there are Russian destroyers,” “Chinese destroyers,” and “Russian submarines all over the place” around Greenland and warned the island would fall into Chinese or Russian hands if the U.S. did not acquire it.

US designates Lebanese, Jordanian, Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood chapters as terrorists

2026-01-12

The Trump administration designated the Lebanese, Jordanian and Egyptian chapters of the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organizations, a move that expands a long-running regional debate over the Sunni Islamist movement’s political and militant activities. The designation, announced Tuesday, comes as governments across the Middle East have cracked down on the Brotherhood while some others have supported its ideology.

Iran protest crackdown death toll surpasses 2,500 as communications cut

2026-01-12

Iranian authorities’ crackdown on nationwide protests has left at least 2,571 people dead, according to an Iranian activists’ group and a U.S.-based monitoring outlet, as communications were severed and Iranians began calling abroad again for the first time in days. Activists said at least 2,403 protesters and 147 government-affiliated people were among the dead, with more than 18,100 others detained.

Trump says he is inclined to keep ExxonMobil out of Venezuela after CEO balks

2026-01-12

President Donald Trump said Sunday that he is "inclined" to keep ExxonMobil out of Venezuela after the oil company's chief executive declared the country "uninvestable" during a White House meeting with energy executives on Friday. Trump made the remarks to reporters aboard Air Force One as he departed West Palm Beach, Florida.

Minnesota, Twin Cities sue Trump administration over fatal ICE shooting

2026-01-12

Minnesota, joined by Minneapolis and St. Paul, filed a lawsuit Monday against the Trump administration seeking to halt an immigration enforcement operation that has included mass arrests, repeated deployment of tear gas, and the fatal shooting of a Minneapolis woman by a federal officer five days earlier. State Attorney General Keith Ellison filed the suit against the Department of Homeland Security, alleging violations of the First Amendment and other constitutional protections. The lawsuit seeks a temporary restraining order to halt the enforcement action or limit the operation.

Smithsonian hands White House more documents on 250th exhibits

2026-01-12

The Smithsonian Institution gave the White House new documents about planned exhibits, museum displays and other programming ahead of the U.S. 250th birthday, according to an Associated Press report. The transfer followed a White House demand for more precise details, with the Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch III saying in an email that “we transmitted more information” in response. The White House did not respond to a request for comment, and Smithsonian said it would continue providing “relevant and appropriate materials.”

Trump administration ends Temporary Protected Status for Somalis

2026-01-12

The Trump administration said it will end Temporary Protected Status for immigrants from Somalia, setting a March 17 deadline for people covered by the program to leave the United States. The decision applies to “hundreds of people,” a small subset of Somali migrants living in the country with TPS protections, the Department of Homeland Security said. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the change puts “Americans first,” and that “Temporary means temporary.”

Michigan Lt. Gov. Gilchrist drops governor bid, enters secretary of state race

2026-01-12

Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II announced Monday he is suspending his campaign for governor and joining the race for secretary of state, reshaping two of the state's most competitive 2026 contests. Gilchrist, a progressive Democrat from Detroit, said in a video announcement he is not finished being a "public servant" but did not offer a specific reason for the switch.

Seth Clark of Macon enters Georgia lieutenant governor race as 2nd Democrat

2026-01-12

Seth Clark, a former Macon-Bibb County commissioner who led a campaign to establish a national park along the Ocmulgee River, announced Monday that he would seek Georgia's lieutenant governorship, becoming the second Democrat to enter the 2026 race for the office. Clark, who resigned from the Macon-Bibb County Commission before launching his campaign, said affordability and the cost of living would anchor his run.

Beshear urges Democrats to lead with costs and authenticity in 2026 governor races

2026-01-12

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear on Monday called on Democrats seeking governorships in 2026 to center their campaigns on solutions for the economic pressures facing working families and to speak more personally about the values and faith that motivate them. Beshear, who chairs the Democratic Governors Association heading into November's midterms, outlined the party's strategy in a sit-down interview with The Associated Press from Frankfort, Kentucky. Thirty-six governor's races are on the ballot this year as Democrats seek to build on their 2025 victories in Virginia and New Jersey.

Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins enters 2026 governor race against Trump-backed Donalds

2026-01-12

Florida Lt. Gov. Jay Collins announced Monday that he is running for governor in 2026, entering a Republican primary that pits him against U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, who carries an endorsement from President Donald Trump. Collins, a retired Green Beret who lost a leg during military service and continued to serve five more years on a prosthetic, posted the announcement on X.

Evers questions lieutenant governor’s plan to limit ICE near schools, courts

2026-01-12

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers said he is questioning whether the state should ban federal immigration enforcement actions near courthouses, schools, child care centers and other locations, a proposal from his lieutenant governor. Sara Rodriguez, the Democratic lieutenant governor running to succeed Evers, laid out the plan Monday, with exceptions for a judicial warrant or an immediate threat to public safety.

Tearful Nebraska Sen. McKeon resigns as lawmakers move to expel him

2026-01-12

Nebraska state Sen. Dan McKeon resigned from the Legislature on Tuesday, hours before a planned debate that would have considered expelling him. McKeon, a Republican from rural south-central Nebraska, cited “careless” words and actions amid accusations that he made a sexually charged comment to a legislative staffer and touched her inappropriately at a session-end party last year.

Federal judge orders HHS to restore $12M in pediatric grants, citing retaliation

2026-01-12

A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to restore nearly $12 million in grants to the American Academy of Pediatrics on Sunday, finding that the Health and Human Services Department likely acted with a "retaliatory motive" when it terminated funding to the pediatric group in December. U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell of Washington, D.C., issued a preliminary injunction siding with AAP, ruling that the group had shown it would likely suffer irreparable harm from the cuts and that the public interest favored allowing the programs to continue while the underlying lawsuit proceeds.

Five years after Floyd, Good shooting videos prove harder to interpret, experts say

2026-01-12

Video of the fatal shooting of Renee Good by ICE agent Jonathan Ross in Minneapolis on Jan. 7 has proven inconclusive on whether Good's vehicle struck Ross before he opened fire, according to independent analyses by the Associated Press, The Washington Post, and The New York Times — and media ethics scholars say that ambiguity, combined with the spread of AI-generated fake images and a more fragmented public, has allowed sharply divergent narratives to take hold where the 2020 footage of George Floyd's death left little room for dispute. The Trump administration moved quickly after the shooting to frame it in terms favorable to the officer, while Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey dismissed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's characterization of Good as a domestic terrorist and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer accused the administration of lying.

Venezuelan migrants welcome Maduro's ouster but fear US deportation

2026-01-12

More than 770,000 Venezuelans living in the United States greeted the Trump administration's removal of President Nicolás Maduro this week with a mix of celebration and apprehension. In interviews from New York City to Utah to Florida, Venezuelan migrants described feelings that, as Miami advocate Alejandra Salima put it, "seesaw between joy and trepidation." Maduro's ouster is "a first step, but we're nervous," said Salima, who fled Venezuela three years ago with her son and now assists other Venezuelans at the Miami office of the National TPS Alliance.

Federal judge orders Revolution Wind construction to resume, rejecting Trump's freeze

2026-01-12

A federal judge ruled Monday that a nearly complete offshore wind project serving Rhode Island and Connecticut can resume construction, dealing the Trump administration a legal setback on the same day President Donald Trump declared the United States "will not approve any windmills." Senior Judge Royce Lamberth of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia said the government failed to explain why it could not take action short of a complete construction halt on Revolution Wind while it considers national security concerns, and did not provide sufficient reasoning for its change in position.

Three inmates killed, 14 others injured in gang fight at Georgia state prison

2026-01-12

Fighting at a medium-security Georgia state prison left three inmates dead and 14 others injured — including a corrections officer — over the weekend, the Georgia Department of Corrections said Monday. The agency said violence erupted in an outdoor area of Washington State Prison, located about 130 miles southeast of Atlanta, and described the episode as "gang-affiliated." Guards used non-lethal weapons to subdue the fighting, and the situation was under control within about 90 minutes, the agency said.

New DHS video shows minutes before ICE officer fatally shot Renee Good in Minneapolis

2026-01-12

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security posted a 3½-minute bystander video Sunday showing what happened in the minutes before a federal immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good during an enforcement operation on a snowy Minneapolis street. The video, published on X, shows Good's red SUV partially blocking a road while she repeatedly pressed the horn, two vehicles eventually passing, and federal officers approaching her car — then going dark moments before previously released footage documents the fatal shooting.

FBI finds no video of Border Patrol shooting that wounded two in Portland, Oregon

2026-01-12

Federal investigators said Monday they found no surveillance footage or body-camera recordings of a Border Patrol agent shooting two people in a Portland, Oregon, parking lot last Thursday during an immigration enforcement operation, as prosecutors charged the driver with aggravated assault and property damage. None of the six agents present was recording body-camera footage, and the FBI has uncovered no surveillance video from the scene, according to a court affidavit filed Monday. The driver, Luis David Nino-Moncada, appeared in federal court Monday afternoon and was ordered held in detention pending a preliminary hearing Wednesday.

Trevor Project receives $45M from MacKenzie Scott after federal funding cuts

2026-01-12

The Trevor Project, which operates a crisis hotline for LGBTQ+ young people, received a $45 million gift from MacKenzie Scott at the end of 2025, the organization announced Monday. The donation is the largest in the nonprofit's history and arrives after the organization lost $25 million in federal funding and weathered years of leadership turmoil and repeated layoffs.

Driver detained after U-Haul speeds through Los Angeles march backing Iran protesters

2026-01-12

Los Angeles police detained a man Sunday after he drove a U-Haul box truck through a crowd of marchers on Veteran Avenue in the Westwood neighborhood, where demonstrators had gathered to show solidarity with protesters inside Iran, police said. One person was struck by the truck, but nobody was seriously hurt, according to a police statement. Two people were evaluated by paramedics and both declined treatment, the Los Angeles Fire Department said.

DC inspector general opens probe into police crime data reporting system

2026-01-12

Washington's inspector general announced Monday that his office has opened an investigation into the Metropolitan Police Department's crime data reporting system, adding to two prior probes that found evidence of data misclassification but stopped short of recommending criminal charges. Inspector General Daniel Lucas said in a letter to interim police Chief Jeffery Carroll that his objective is to evaluate the design, implementation, and operation of MPD's internal controls for collecting, classifying, and reporting crime data.

49 political prisoners freed in Venezuela as families wait for more

2026-01-12

Venezuelan authorities had freed 49 political prisoners as of Monday afternoon, according to Caracas-based advocacy group Foro Penal, a trickle of releases that left hundreds of families camped on prison sidewalks hoping for more. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez's government pledged last week to free a significant number of detainees as a goodwill gesture to "seek peace," but officials have not named or enumerated those being considered. Human rights organizations say more than 800 people are held in Venezuela for political reasons.

Gallup: 45% of Americans now identify as independents as Gen Z leads shift

2026-01-12

Nearly half of U.S. adults — 45% — now identify as political independents, up from roughly one-third two decades ago, according to a new Gallup survey released Sunday. Younger Americans are driving the increase at rates that exceed prior generations, with more than half of Generation Z and Millennial adults now rejecting both major parties. The Gallup polling found that independents have tilted toward Democrats over the past year when asked which party they lean toward — 47% of U.S. adults now identify as Democrats or lean Democratic, compared to 42% who are Republican or lean Republican — but Gallup's analysts said the shift likely reflects sour views of President Donald Trump rather than growing warmth toward Democrats.

Texas medical marijuana program sees 32% enrollment surge after qualifying conditions expand

2026-01-12

Texas' medical marijuana program enrolled 135,470 patients by the end of 2025, a 32% increase over the previous year, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The jump followed the state's most significant expansion of the Texas Compassionate Use Program since its 2015 launch, which took effect in September and added qualifying conditions including chronic pain, traumatic brain injury, and terminal illness.

Massachusetts enacts assisted living safety reforms after fire killed 10

2026-01-12

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey announced Monday a package of safety reforms for the state's assisted living facilities, including mandatory annual fire-department inspections and evacuation drills, following a fire last summer that killed 10 residents at a Fall River facility — the state's deadliest blaze in more than 40 years.

L.A. Reid settles sexual assault lawsuit with record executive Drew Dixon

2026-01-12

Grammy Award-winning music producer Antonio "L.A." Reid settled a sexual assault lawsuit Monday with former record company executive Drew Dixon, who alleged he assaulted her twice in 2001 and undermined her career when she refused his continuing advances. The settlement was reached in New York on the day jury selection was scheduled to begin. Terms were not disclosed.

Red lines and self-censorship reshape Hong Kong’s press as trial nears

2026-01-12

Hong Kong’s press freedom has deteriorated sharply over two decades as Beijing’s 2020 national security law reshaped the media landscape, the Associated Press reported. The decline spans the shutdown of pro-democracy outlets Apple Daily and Stand News, broader “red lines” for journalists, and increasing self-censorship as officials face legal scrutiny.

Democrats to spend millions on voter registration strategy for 2026 midterms

2026-01-12

The Democratic National Committee said it will spend millions of dollars to shift voter registration efforts ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, starting in Arizona and Nevada. DNC Chair Ken Martin said the initiative aims to increase the party’s chances by building its own capacity rather than relying mainly on nonprofit advocacy groups and individual campaigns. The program will begin with at least $2 million for training organizers.

Detainee in Florida “Alligator Alcatraz” case agrees to removal

2026-01-12

A federal detainee at a remote Florida detention center known as “Alligator Alcatraz” has agreed to be removed from the United States, ending one of three pending federal court challenges to the facility, attorneys said. The detainee, identified in court documents only as M.A., asked a U.S. federal court in Fort Myers to dismiss his case on Monday.

EPA proposes limits on states, tribes under Clean Water Act Section 401

2026-01-12

The Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday proposed limiting how states and federally authorized tribes can use Clean Water Act Section 401 to block or delay major projects over water-quality concerns, including pipelines and some data-center infrastructure. The EPA said the change would add “transparency, efficiency and predictability” to reviews while still allowing states and tribes to protect their environment.

EPA to stop monetizing health benefits in key air pollution rule analyses

2026-01-12

The Environmental Protection Agency said it will stop calculating the dollar value of health care costs avoided and deaths prevented from rules that curb fine particle pollution and ozone. The EPA said it will continue estimating compliance costs for businesses and will keep working on its pollution-rule economic methods, while environmental and public health advocates criticized the change.

Hungary sets April 12 election date as Orbán faces tough challenge

2026-01-12

Hungary’s parliamentary election will be held April 12, President Tamás Sulyok announced, saying people should vote freely. The April date places Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, in office since 2010, against what he and his allies describe as the toughest challenge he has faced in 16 years.

Lebanon ex-central bank chief Salameh corruption case sent to top court

2026-01-12

Lebanon’s former central bank governor Riad Salameh’s corruption case has been transferred to the country’s highest court, judicial officials told The Associated Press on Tuesday. Salameh and two legal associates—Marwan Khoury and Michel Toueini—will be tried at the Court of Cassation, a copy of the notice obtained by AP showed.

Minneapolis church holds ‘Lament and Hope’ service after ICE shooting

2026-01-12

Minneapolis’ St. Paul’s-San Pablo Lutheran Church held a special Sunday service called “Lament and Hope” amid fears in immigrant communities after a woman was fatally shot by an immigration officer, the Associated Press reported. The church’s pastor, Rev. Hierald Osorto, led prayers and worship as immigration enforcement activity continued in the area.

NYC Council employee’s immigration arrest sparks protests and court fight

2026-01-12

A New York City Council employee was arrested Monday at a scheduled immigration check-in and held at a federal building in Manhattan, prompting protests and a court bid for his release. The employee, identified in a habeas corpus petition as Rafael Andres Rubio Bohorquez, is described by his attorneys as a Venezuelan asylum-seeker. Immigration authorities said he overstayed a tourist visa and lacked legal right to remain and work in the United States.

Puerto Rico to conduct compulsory visits of public housing units

2026-01-12

Puerto Rico’s government said it will conduct compulsory visits to all public housing projects to assess residents’ living conditions and whether occupants are authorized to live there. The effort will involve inspections across hundreds of projects in the U.S. territory, Public Housing Administration Director Juan Rosario Hernández said.

Tensions flare in Minnesota as federal agents and protesters square off

2026-01-12

Federal officers used tear gas and sprayed an eye irritant at activists during confrontations in Minneapolis on Tuesday, and students later walked out of a suburban school to protest the Trump administration’s immigration sweeps, according to a report by the Associated Press. The demonstrations were part of an escalating standoff that began after a Minneapolis woman, Renee Good, was shot by an immigration agent.

Trump says he is “inclined” to keep ExxonMobil out of Venezuela

2026-01-12

U.S. President Donald Trump said Sunday he is “inclined” to keep ExxonMobil out of Venezuela after Exxon’s chief raised skepticism about oil-investment plans there. Trump spoke aboard Air Force One as he left West Palm Beach, Florida, according to the Associated Press.

Trump tells Iranian protesters help is on its way amid crackdown

2026-01-12

President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he is still trying to understand how many people in Iran have been killed and arrested during unrest that began late last month, while calling on Iran’s government to “show humanity.” In remarks after talks with his national security team, Trump said he has heard “five different sets of numbers” about the death toll and that his administration would “act accordingly” if the killing is “significant.”

Trump to lead record U.S. delegation to Davos forum next week

2026-01-12

U.S. President Donald Trump will lead a record-large U.S. delegation to the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, next week, organizers said Tuesday. The Geneva-based forum said the event runs from Monday through Jan. 23.

Venezuela families register relatives as “political prisoners” after releases

2026-01-12

Scores of families in Venezuela have begun registering relatives they say are “political prisoners” after the government’s promised release of detainees following the Jan. 3 U.S.-linked capture of President Nicolás Maduro, according to prisoner advocates and human rights monitors. For many, the reopening of outreach comes too late: police officer Edilson Torres died in detention in December and was buried in his hometown in Guanare this week.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers urges GOP Legislature to advance priorities

2026-01-12

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers urged the Republican-controlled Wisconsin Legislature to act on his priorities in his final year, even if it requires lawmakers staying in session longer than planned. Speaking to reporters Monday, Evers said there is still time for lawmakers to advance proposals including protecting funding for SNAP and tackling PFAS pollution.

Judge to temporarily block Trump administration end of Family Reunification Parole

2026-01-12

BOSTON — A federal judge in Massachusetts said Friday she expects to temporarily block efforts by the Trump administration to end a parole program that offers temporary legal protections to more than 10,000 family members of U.S. citizens and green card holders. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani said at a hearing that she planned to issue a temporary restraining order but did not say when it would be issued.

Railroads and regulators stymie safety fixes, analysis says

2026-01-12

Railroads and federal regulators have failed to implement most recommendations from major rail accident investigations, according to an analysis by the Howard Center for Investigative Journalism at the University of Maryland. The analysis found the Federal Railroad Administration fully implemented only five of 81 National Transportation Safety Board recommendations from 2015 through 2024.

DOJ investigation of Fed Chair Powell sparks backlash among lawmakers

2026-01-11

The Trump administration’s criminal investigation of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell prompted backlash from Republicans in Congress and defense from former Fed leaders on Monday, the day Powell revealed subpoenas and described them as “pretexts” to pressure him on interest-rate cuts. The scrutiny is unfolding as Powell’s term as chair ends in May and as the White House prepares to nominate a successor.

Powell says DOJ subpoenaed Fed, warns of criminal indictment

2026-01-11

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said the U.S. Department of Justice served the central bank with subpoenas and threatened a criminal indictment over his testimony this summer about renovations to Fed buildings. In a video statement Sunday, Powell said the threat is aimed at undermining the Fed’s independence in setting interest rates rather than following political preferences.

Trump escalates Justice probe of Fed, threatens charges over Powell testimony

2026-01-11

President Donald Trump has escalated his confrontation with the Federal Reserve, with the Justice Department investigating and serving subpoenas to the independent central bank and threatening a criminal indictment, according to a statement from Fed Chair Jerome Powell. The dispute is centered on Powell’s testimony to Congress in June about the cost of a renovation of Fed buildings in Washington.

Trump escalates pressure on Fed independence with Powell indictment threat

2026-01-11

The Justice Department has threatened to seek a criminal indictment against Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell over testimony he gave this summer about the Fed’s building renovations, Powell said over the weekend. The comments add to concerns that President Donald Trump has pushed for greater control over the independent central bank, after he repeatedly attacked Powell for cutting rates and questioned the Fed’s handling of a $2.5 billion renovation project.

Trump’s Justice Department actions target Powell and other opponents

2026-01-11

Donald Trump’s administration has taken steps that a number of critics describe as retribution against officials who opposed the Republican president or did not comply with his preferences, according to an Associated Press review published Monday. The most recent focus is Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who said the Justice Department has subpoenaed the central bank and threatened criminal indictments. The review also describes cases involving former FBI Director James Comey, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and other former or current government officials.

Judge to temporarily block Trump administration from ending Family Reunification Parole

2026-01-11

A federal judge in Boston said Friday she expects to temporarily block the Trump administration’s effort to end Family Reunification Parole, a program that grants temporary legal protections to more than 10,000 family members of U.S. citizens and green card holders. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani said at a hearing she planned to issue a temporary restraining order, and questioned whether the government gave affected people written notice when it ended the program.

Supreme Court hears arguments on transgender athlete bans from West Virginia, Idaho

2026-01-11

The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear arguments Tuesday in two cases testing whether state laws banning transgender girls and women from female sports competitions violate the Constitution or Title IX, the landmark federal law prohibiting sex discrimination in education. The West Virginia case centers on Becky Pepper-Jackson, a 15-year-old sophomore who competes in discus and shot put, while the Idaho case involves college student Lindsay Hecox. Decisions are expected by early summer.

Trump warns Cuba to make a 'deal' as Venezuelan oil lifeline goes dark

2026-01-11

President Donald Trump on Sunday issued a fresh ultimatum to Cuba's communist government, demanding Havana strike an unspecified "deal" with Washington and declaring that no more Venezuelan oil or money would reach the island — days after the U.S. military operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro severed the oil lifeline Cuba had depended on for years. Cuba's President Miguel Díaz-Canel rejected the demand hours later, accusing the United States of lacking moral authority to criticize his government.

Trump-allied lawsuits could reshape who counts in the 2030 census

2026-01-11

Two federal lawsuits filed by allies of President Donald Trump could determine who gets counted in the 2030 census and what methods the Census Bureau may use — outcomes that would affect congressional representation and the distribution of $2.8 trillion in federal aid to the states, the Associated Press reported Saturday. The cases are pending in Florida and Louisiana, and the Census Bureau itself is pushing ahead with planning for the next decennial count regardless of the litigation.

Democrat Mary Peltola challenges Sen. Dan Sullivan in Alaska Senate bid

2026-01-11

Mary Peltola, Alaska Native Democrat and former U.S. representative, said Monday she will challenge Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan in the state’s Senate race this year. Peltola, who served in Congress after winning Alaska’s House seat in 2022, made the announcement in a video and framed her campaign around affordability and rural Alaska costs.

Greenland’s party leaders reject Trump’s push for U.S. control of island

2026-01-11

Greenland’s party leaders rejected President Donald Trump’s renewed call for the United States to take control of Greenland, saying its future must be decided by Greenlandic people. Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Greenland Prime Minister, and four other party leaders made the case in a statement Friday night. The remarks came after officials from Denmark, Greenland and the United States met Thursday in Washington and scheduled another meeting next week.

Seattle judge blocks most of Trump election order on mail ballots

2026-01-11

A federal judge in Seattle blocked most of President Donald Trump’s executive order on elections from being enforced against the vote-by-mail states of Washington and Oregon, according to court filings and lawyers’ statements. The order, issued in March, would require people to provide documentary proof of citizenship when registering to vote and would require all mail ballots to be received by Election Day.

Trump’s mid-decade redistricting push hits key state sessions

2026-01-11

President Donald Trump’s plan to reshape voting districts for partisan advantage ahead of the 2026 midterm elections is entering a critical phase as state legislatures return for new sessions and some key setbacks and legal questions narrow the path ahead, according to an Associated Press analysis. The next moves in Virginia and Florida will be watched closely, while Illinois, Maryland and Kansas face internal resistance to further congressional remapping.

Trump says he’s “inclined” to keep ExxonMobil out of Venezuela

2026-01-11

President Donald Trump said Sunday he is “inclined” to keep ExxonMobil out of Venezuela after the company’s top executive raised concerns about oil investment plans following the toppling of former President Nicolás Maduro. Trump made the remark aboard Air Force One as he departed West Palm Beach, Florida, after a Friday meeting with oil executives.

US officials weigh options for Greenland amid Trump takeover rhetoric

2026-01-11

U.S. President Donald Trump has said the United States should take control of Greenland, a semiautonomous island in NATO ally Denmark, and warned, “something on Greenland” would happen “whether they like it or not.” Officials from Denmark, Greenland and the United States met in Washington on Thursday and are scheduled to meet again next week as Washington considers options that include military force.

Iran protest death toll reaches 544 as Trump says Tehran is seeking talks

2026-01-11

DUBAI — The death toll from Iran's crackdown on street protesters rose to at least 544, activists said Sunday, as President Donald Trump said Tehran had proposed negotiations while simultaneously warning that military action remained under active consideration. More than 10,600 people have been detained since demonstrations began Dec. 28, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.

How it reports Iran protest death toll amid internet blackout

2026-01-11

The Associated Press said it has faced major obstacles in tracking the death toll from Iran’s nationwide protests, including a government decision to cut off internet access. AP reported that it has relied on figures provided by the Human Rights Activists News Agency, which it said it has not been able to independently confirm because Iran’s theocratic government has not provided overall casualty figures.

Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly sues Pentagon over censure, alleges rights violation

2026-01-11

Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly sued the Pentagon on Monday, saying Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is trying to punish him for warnings about “illegal orders” and that the action violates his free-speech rights. Kelly asked a federal court in Washington, D.C., to block a censure letter and related proceedings that could affect his retired military rank and retirement pay.

New York AG sues Trump administration over freeze on offshore wind

2026-01-11

New York Attorney General Letitia James sued the Trump administration on Friday in federal court in Washington over a decision to halt two major offshore wind projects off Long Island, expected to power more than 1 million homes in the state. James challenged a Dec. 22 order from the U.S. Department of the Interior suspending construction on the Sunrise Wind and Empire Wind projects, saying it was arbitrary and unwarranted.

Trump administration pauses offshore wind as developers challenge order

2026-01-11

A federal judge ruled Monday that work on Revolution Wind, a major offshore wind project for Rhode Island and Connecticut, can resume while courts consider challenges to a Trump administration order that paused multiple offshore wind farms over national security concerns. The decision came as developers including Orsted and Equinor sought to block the freeze in separate court proceedings.

Trump’s Florida motorcade rerouted after ‘suspicious object,’ White House says

2026-01-11

President Donald Trump’s motorcade was rerouted as he departed Florida for Palm Beach International Airport after a “suspicious object” was discovered during security sweeps, the White House said. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said a further investigation was warranted and the motorcade route was adjusted accordingly, as Trump left Mar-a-Lago for the roughly 10-minute drive.

Richard Codey, New Jersey's longest-serving legislator and acting governor, dies at 79

2026-01-11

Richard "Dick" Codey, a former acting governor of New Jersey and the longest-serving legislator in the state's history, died Sunday at his home after a brief illness. He was 79. Codey's wife, Mary Jo Codey, confirmed his death to The Associated Press. "Gov. Richard J. Codey passed away peacefully this morning at home, surrounded by family, after a brief illness," the family wrote in a Facebook post Sunday.

Democrat Seth Clark enters Georgia lieutenant governor race

2026-01-11

A second Democrat has entered Georgia’s lieutenant governor race, with Seth Clark of Macon announcing his candidacy. Clark, who recently resigned from the Macon-Bibb County Commission, said Monday he will run to succeed Republican Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, who is seeking the governor’s seat.

Michigan Lt. Gov. Gilchrist drops governor bid, enters secretary of state race

2026-01-11

Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II said he is suspending his campaign for governor and instead will seek the Democratic nomination for Michigan secretary of state. The announcement comes as Michigan prepares for a political matchup shaped by the role of the secretary of state as the state’s top election official.

Minneapolis church holds 'Lament and Hope' service as ICE enforcement grips city

2026-01-11

A Minneapolis Lutheran church opened its doors Sunday for a special service called "Lament and Hope," drawing worshippers from its largely immigrant congregation days after an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer fatally shot a woman in the surrounding neighborhood. The Rev. Hierald Osorto, pastor of St. Paul's-San Pablo Lutheran Church, welcomed a crowd seated on wooden benches as immigration enforcement officers drove through the streets outside, detaining people while activists beat drums and blew whistles in response.

Venezuelan diaspora cautious after Maduro's capture as calls to return go unheeded

2026-01-11

LIMA, Peru — Officials from Washington to Lima urged millions of Venezuelan migrants this week to return home following the ouster of former President Nicolás Maduro, but the diaspora — numbering nearly 7 million across Latin America, according to United Nations-coordinated tracking data — showed little appetite for leaving the lives they have built abroad. Venezuela's economy remains in ruins, the government that presided over mass displacement continues to govern, and for many, the political shift has not yet cleared a path home. "You've got to keep an eye on it, know what's going on, but not lose hope," said Yanelis Torres, a 22-year-old graphic designer in Lima who spent the days after Maduro's capture filling orders for T-shirts featuring his image overlaid with phrases like "Game Over."

Greenland rare earth mining faces years of obstacles regardless of Trump push, experts say

2026-01-11

President Donald Trump said Friday the United States "is going to do something on Greenland whether they like it or not," renewing his push to acquire the Danish autonomous territory. But geologists and industry experts say Greenland's rare earth deposits face years of logistical, geological, and financial hurdles that would persist regardless of who controls the island.

Anonymous Polymarket trader pockets $400,000 on Maduro bet, raising insider trading questions

2026-01-11

An anonymous trader collected more than $400,000 from prediction market platform Polymarket after wagering that former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro would fall from power, the Associated Press reported. The bulk of those bets were placed just hours before President Donald Trump announced a surprise nighttime U.S. military raid that resulted in Maduro's capture, AP reported, fueling online suspicions of potential insider trading. Democratic Rep. Ritchie Torres on Friday introduced a bill aimed at restricting government employees from trading on politically related event contracts — the first legislative response to the episode, according to AP.

Arson suspect arrested after fire damages historic Mississippi synagogue

2026-01-11

A person was arrested on suspicion of arson Sunday after a fire heavily damaged Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi — the state's largest synagogue and the only one in Jackson — which the Ku Klux Klan bombed in 1967 for its congregation's role in the civil rights movement. The fire broke out shortly after 3 a.m. Saturday; no congregants or firefighters were injured, authorities said.

Smithsonian drops impeachment references from Trump portrait display

2026-01-11

The Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery has removed references to President Donald Trump's two impeachments from his portrait display, the Associated Press reported Sunday, the latest apparent change at an institution Trump has accused of bias as his administration reshapes how federal museums document U.S. history. A new photograph of Trump — taken by White House photographer Daniel Torok and showing him with brow furrowed, leaning over his Oval Office desk — replaced an earlier image at the museum's "America's Presidents" exhibition. The accompanying text block that had described his first term, including his impeachments, was removed. As of Sunday, Trump was the only president in the gallery whose display did not include extended biographical text.

Federal agents ram Minneapolis door, pepper-spray protesters in immigration sweep

2026-01-11

Federal immigration agents rammed the door of a Minneapolis home Sunday and forced their way inside after pepper-spraying protesters who had gathered outside, according to video recorded by The Associated Press. A man was handcuffed and led away within minutes, arrested using a document signed by an immigration officer — not a court-issued warrant — which does not authorize forced entry into a private residence under federal law.

5 years after Floyd and Good videos, confusion over images persists

2026-01-11

In Minneapolis, video footage from two different police killings — George Floyd in 2020 and Renee Good in 2025 — continues to shape public arguments about law enforcement and immigration. Five years after the Floyd video helped spark a major protest movement, new images released in the Good case have intensified disputes over what the videos show and how they should be interpreted, according to experts interviewed by the Associated Press.

Beshear urges Democrats to focus on everyday costs ahead of 2026

2026-01-11

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, head of the Democratic Governors Association, said Democrats seeking to win more gubernatorial seats in 2026 should focus their campaigns on helping Americans deal with the everyday pressure of housing, health care and other essentials. He made the remarks Monday in a sit-down interview with The Associated Press.

California proposal to mix hydrogen with gas faces scrutiny from residents

2026-01-11

California plans to run pilot projects that blend hydrogen into natural gas used by homes and businesses, as regulators weigh how to set safety rules. The proposal has drawn scrutiny in Orange Cove in California’s Central Valley, where residents have raised concerns about health risks and lack of transparency as the state and Southern California Gas Co. prepare test plans.

Cyprus president’s top aide resigns after online corruption video

2026-01-11

Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides accepted the resignation of his top aide, Charalambos Charalambous, after an online video posted recently alleged government corruption and sought to portray the president’s office as improperly influencing foreign investors. Christodoulides said in a written statement on Monday that Charalambous’ resignation reflects “self-confidence and trust” that the allegations are untrue.

Democrats ask judge to order access to Minneapolis ICE facility

2026-01-11

Lawyers for several Democratic members of Congress asked a federal judge to hold an emergency hearing after the Trump administration blocked lawmakers from visiting an ICE facility near Minneapolis. The request follows a Minneapolis-area shooting in which an ICE officer shot and killed Renee Good, a U.S. citizen, lawyers said.

Displaced residents return to Aleppo as government and Kurdish forces clash

2026-01-11

Hundreds of displaced residents returned Monday to Achrafieh, a neighborhood in Aleppo, after days of intense fighting between government forces and Kurdish fighters, the Associated Press reported. AP said clashes that began Jan. 6 killed at least 23 people and displaced tens of thousands. Traffic and bus service resumed as security forces guarded the area and began clearing damage and unexploded material.

Dozens of prisoners released in Venezuela as families hope for more

2026-01-11

Venezuela released dozens of prisoners in a goodwill effort, but families of detainees outside prisons in Caracas said releases have come only “in a trickle.” By Monday afternoon, the rights group Foro Penal had verified the release of 49 prisoners, as the U.N.-backed fact-finding mission said the numbers “falls far short” of calls for the immediate release of all political prisoners.

Hong Kong court hears mitigation for Jimmy Lai’s national security sentence

2026-01-11

A Hong Kong court heard arguments on Monday about the sentencing of democracy advocate Jimmy Lai, a former publisher of Apple Daily, whose conviction under the city’s national security law could carry a maximum penalty of life in prison. Lai, 78, and other co-defendants appeared for four days of hearings on mitigation, with sentencing to be decided later.

Iran protests spotlight exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi amid regime pressure

2026-01-11

Iran’s exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has stepped into a swelling wave of protests in Iran, calling for more demonstrations as the unrest challenges the Islamic Republic. The Associated Press reported that his calls were rebroadcast by Farsi-language satellite news channels and websites abroad, and protesters returned to the streets Friday night after an earlier push Thursday.

Iran’s leadership faces pressure as anti-theocracy protests continue

2026-01-11

Iran’s leadership is facing “incredible pressure” as the largest protests in years against the Islamic theocracy continue, the Associated Press reported. The protests and the crackdown have pushed a rising death toll “into the hundreds,” while communications links to the outside world remain cut.

Judge orders HHS to restore nearly $12M in AAP grants while case continues

2026-01-11

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to restore nearly $12 million in funding to the American Academy of Pediatrics as a lawsuit continues, according to a court decision. U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell issued a preliminary injunction late Sunday in Washington, D.C., directing the Health and Human Services Department to reinstate seven grants that were terminated in December.

Minnesota and Twin Cities sue federal government after fatal Minneapolis shooting

2026-01-11

Minnesota and its two largest cities sued the Trump administration Monday, seeking court limits on an immigration enforcement surge they say followed the fatal shooting of a Minneapolis woman by a federal officer. State Attorney General Keith Ellison said the enforcement action is unconstitutional and must stop, while the Department of Homeland Security said the effort is lawful and that it has a constitutional defense. The legal challenge comes as protests and tensions continued in Minneapolis days after the shooting.

More Americans identify as independents, Gallup polling shows

2026-01-11

Americans are increasingly rejecting the Democratic and Republican parties, according to Gallup polling reported by the Associated Press. Just under half of U.S. adults, 45%, now identify as independents, Gallup found—up from closer to one-third about 20 years ago.

Sheinbaum tells Trump U.S. cartel intervention is “unnecessary”

2026-01-11

Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum said she spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday and that the two governments will keep working on security issues without U.S. intervention against drug cartels. Sheinbaum said Trump asked about what the U.S. did in Venezuela after the removal of Nicolás Maduro and that she reiterated Mexico’s opposition to interventions.

Syrian security forces enter Aleppo neighborhood after clashes with Kurdish fighters

2026-01-11

Syrian security forces began deploying Saturday in a neighborhood in Aleppo after days of intense fighting with Kurdish fighters, leaving dozens dead and injured, the Associated Press reported. The violence prompted authorities to stop civilian flights at Aleppo International Airport until further notice, state television reported.

Texas to expand medical marijuana program, adding dispensaries and conditions

2026-01-11

Texas’ medical marijuana program is set to expand this year after lawmakers approved changes to the Texas Compassionate Use Program, state and industry representatives said. The expansion adds qualifying conditions, increases THC limits and inhaler options, and is expected to bring more dispensaries online, while enrollment and patient numbers have already risen. The program is aimed at Texans with certain medical needs and depends on physicians registering to prescribe cannabis.

Trevor Project gets $45M from MacKenzie Scott after funding cuts

2026-01-11

The Trevor Project said it received a $45 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott at the end of 2025, after years that included management turmoil and federal funding losses. The donation, the organization said Monday, is its largest ever and is intended to help it continue and expand mental health support for LGBTQ+ young people.

Trump dice que Irán quiere negociar mientras protestas dejan al menos 646 muertos

2026-01-11

El presidente estadounidense Donald Trump dijo que Irán quiere negociar con Washington mientras, según activistas, el número de muertos por las protestas en Irán sube al menos a 646. Sus comentarios siguieron a una visita del ministro de Relaciones Exteriores de Omán a Irán y en medio de reportes de arrestos y represión contra manifestantes.

Venezuelan migrants in the US celebrate Maduro’s ouster but fear deportations

2026-01-11

Venezuelan migrants in the United States voiced mixed reactions after the Trump administration ousted President Nicolás Maduro in a late-night military raid, with some expressing relief while others worried about the future for their families. Alejandra Salima, a Venezuelan advocate in the Miami area, said the removal is “a first step, but we’re nervous,” citing fears that returning could endanger her and her son.

Washington inspector general starts review of MPD crime data reporting

2026-01-11

Washington’s inspector general has started an investigation into how the Metropolitan Police Department collects, classifies and reports crime data, according to a letter announced Monday. The review comes amid scrutiny from congressional investigators and a U.S. attorney’s office after questions were raised about whether some reports were misclassified to show lower crime rates.

Trump admin freezes child care and other social-service funds in 5 states

2026-01-11

The Trump administration has told California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota and New York that it is restricting some social safety net funding used for programs including child care subsidies, cash assistance and job training. The states sued, and a federal judge halted the freeze for at least two weeks.

Trump brushes off early posting of confidential jobs figures

2026-01-11

President Donald Trump posted a graphic on social media late Thursday showing U.S. jobs figures from December that were not scheduled to be released until Friday’s Labor Department employment report. Trump said Friday he had been given “some numbers” and posted them, as questions swirled over the confidentiality process at the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Trump calls for 10% credit card interest rate cap; banks push back

2026-01-10

President Donald Trump on Friday night called for a one-year, 10% cap on credit card interest rates, reviving a campaign pledge that banking and credit card companies immediately opposed. The industry donated heavily to his 2024 campaign and has backed his second-term agenda. Trump did not specify in his Truth Social post whether the cap would take effect through executive action or legislation. He said he hoped it would be in place by Jan. 20, 2027, one year after he took office. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., said he had spoken with the president Friday night and planned to advance legislation with Trump's "full support."

Judge blocks Trump child care funding freeze for five Democratic states

2026-01-10

A federal judge on Friday blocked the Trump administration from freezing billions of dollars in annual funding for child care subsidies and social services in five Democratic-led states, finding that California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, and New York had met the legal threshold to pause the policy while litigation proceeds. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, nominated to the bench by President Joe Biden, issued a temporary order after the five states argued that a funding freeze announced earlier in the week was causing immediate "operational chaos." The order holds for at least 14 days.

Judge blocks Trump administration from freezing child care funds in 5 states

2026-01-10

A federal judge ruled Friday that the Trump administration cannot block federal money for child care subsidies and other programs for five Democratic-led states for now. The states—California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota and New York—said a Tuesday policy to freeze billions of dollars was causing immediate harm and “operational chaos.”

Trump seeks a one-year 10% cap on credit card interest, banks oppose

2026-01-10

President Donald Trump on Friday pushed a one-year cap of 10% on credit card interest rates, reviving a campaign pledge that he said could save Americans tens of billions of dollars. Industry and banking groups immediately opposed the idea, arguing it would steer consumers to costlier, less-regulated alternatives.

Federal judge blocks Trump elections order in suit by Washington, Oregon

2026-01-10

A federal judge in Seattle on Friday blocked President Donald Trump's administration from enforcing most of his executive order on elections against Washington and Oregon, finding that requirements for documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote and for all mail ballots to be received by Election Day exceeded the president's constitutional authority.

Congress weighs response to ICE killing of Minnesota woman Renee Good

2026-01-10

WASHINGTON — Congressional Democrats and at least one Republican senator called Saturday for investigations and policy changes following the shooting death of Renee Good, a Minnesota woman killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer after she dropped off her 6-year-old child at school. Democratic leaders said the death was prompting what House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York described as "a strong and forceful and appropriate response."

Greenland's party leaders reject Trump's push for US control of island

2026-01-10

Greenland's prime minister and four party leaders issued a joint statement Friday firmly rejecting President Donald Trump's calls for the United States to take control of the self-governing Arctic island, saying its future must be decided by its own people alone. "We don't want to be Americans, we don't want to be Danes, we want to be Greenlanders," the leaders said. The statement came as the White House confirmed it is weighing options to acquire Greenland, including military force.

Thousands march across US after ICE shootings in Minneapolis, Portland

2026-01-10

Thousands of people marched in Minneapolis on Saturday to protest the fatal shooting of a woman by a federal immigration officer, as hundreds of similar demonstrations were held in cities and towns across the country. The nationwide protests followed the killing of Renee Good, 37, by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis on Wednesday and the shooting of two people — who were not protesters — in Portland, Oregon. Minnesota's governor and mayor urged demonstrators to remain peaceful.

Nobel Institute rules out transfer of Machado's peace prize to Trump

2026-01-10

The Norwegian Nobel Institute said Friday that the Nobel Peace Prize cannot be revoked, transferred, or shared with other recipients, closing off Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado's expressed wish to give or share her award with President Donald Trump. "The decision is final and stands for all time," the institute said in a brief statement issued from Oslo.

Virginia man pleads not guilty to pipe bomb charges tied to eve of Capitol riot

2026-01-10

Brian J. Cole Jr. of Woodbridge, Virginia, pleaded not guilty Friday to federal charges accusing him of planting two pipe bombs outside the national headquarters of both major political parties on the eve of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Cole faces two counts of transporting and attempting to use explosives, which together carry up to 30 years in prison, including a five-year mandatory minimum on one count.

Congress weighs ICE consequences after Minnesota woman’s killing

2026-01-10

Congress is debating possible consequences for Immigration and Customs Enforcement after a Minnesota woman, Renee Good, was killed in a shooting involving an ICE officer, as Democrats and some Republicans call for an assertive response to the Trump administration’s deportation operations. Lawmakers are weighing actions that range from investigating Good’s death to changing how ICE conducts raids, and some Democrats have also raised impeachment or funding restrictions for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Hamas says it will dissolve Gaza government for new Palestinian leadership

2026-01-10

Hamas said it will dissolve its existing Gaza government once a new Palestinian technocratic leadership committee takes over the territory, as called for in a U.S.-brokered peace plan. The group did not say when the change would occur, while negotiations continue over a broader ceasefire framework and deaths in Gaza remained reported.

Supreme Court to hear cases on transgender athletes and Title IX bans

2026-01-10

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments Tuesday in two cases challenging state bans on transgender girls and women competing in school and college sports, including one case brought by a college student in Idaho. The rulings are expected by early summer. (AP)

Thomas Paine memorial in Washington awaits Interior approval

2026-01-10

Some 250 years after “Common Sense” helped inspire the 13 colonies to declare independence, supporters are pressing for a Thomas Paine memorial in Washington, D.C. A Paine memorial authorized by a 2022 law is waiting for approval from the U.S. Department of the Interior, with Interior officials weighing whether to endorse a placement plan that would send the proposal back to Congress.

Thousands rally in Aden as UAE-backed separatists reject dissolution

2026-01-10

Thousands of Yemenis rallied Saturday in the southern city of Aden in support of the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council, a day after it dissolved itself following clashes with the internationally recognized Yemen government. Protesters gathered in the Khor Maksar district, where Aden’s international airport is located, chanting slogans against Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni international government.

Trump warns Cuba to make a deal after Maduro’s capture

2026-01-10

President Donald Trump on Sunday warned Cuba to “make a deal” after Nicolás Maduro was deposed in Venezuela, as Cuba faces a cut-off from Venezuelan oil shipments amid U.S. operations targeting Venezuelan crude. Trump said Cuba had long relied on Venezuelan “oil and money” and posted that there would be “ZERO” further support. Cuba’s president, Miguel Díaz-Canel, responded that those who “turn everything into a business, even human lives” have “no moral authority” to criticize Cuba.

Video shows masked settlers beating Palestinian man in West Bank

2026-01-10

Israeli settlers beat and injured a Palestinian man during an attack on a plant nursery in the northern West Bank, according to witnesses and video footage reviewed by The Associated Press on Jan. 10. The man, identified by family members as 67-year-old Basim Saleh Yassin, was hospitalized with broken bones and other injuries, and workers later fled as attackers approached, the witnesses said.

Iran protest death toll reaches 116 as attorney general warns of death penalty

2026-01-10

Nationwide protests challenging Iran's theocratic government reached their two-week mark Sunday, as the death toll rose to at least 116 people killed and more than 2,600 others detained, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency. Iran's attorney general simultaneously threatened death-penalty charges against demonstrators, while U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for the protests and news outlets reported he had been presented with military options.

New York attorney general sues Trump administration over offshore wind project freeze

2026-01-10

New York Attorney General Letitia James sued the Trump administration on Friday in federal court in Washington, asking a judge to reverse a Dec. 22 Interior Department order that suspended construction on two offshore wind projects off Long Island expected to power more than 1 million homes. James called the stop-work order — which the Interior Department justified on national security grounds — arbitrary and legally unsupported, noting that the projects had cleared more than a decade of federal, state and local safety and security reviews.

Nicaragua says it will release detainees after U.S. pressure

2026-01-10

Nicaragua’s Interior Ministry said Saturday that the country will release dozens of prisoners who were held in its National Penitentiary System, following pressure from the United States. The statement came after the U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua said Venezuela had taken a step toward peace by releasing people it described as political prisoners. It was not immediately clear who would be freed or under what conditions.

Florida man convicted in Jan. 6 Pelosi podium case files for county office

2026-01-10

A man convicted in the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot for taking and posing with then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s podium has filed to run for a county commission seat in Florida, court records show and he said. Adam Johnson filed Tuesday as a Republican for an at-large seat on the Manatee County Commission, according to an interview and reporting by The Associated Press.

Trump order shields Venezuelan oil revenue from judicial claims

2026-01-10

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Saturday to prevent Venezuelan oil revenues held by the United States from being seized in judicial proceedings. The order declares the funds to be Venezuelan property held for 'governmental and diplomatic purposes' and not subject to private claims — a new legal instrument layered onto the administration's broader effort to control Venezuela's oil industry.

250 years after 'Common Sense,' Thomas Paine still awaits a Washington memorial

2026-01-10

Saturday marks 250 years since Thomas Paine published "Common Sense," the pamphlet credited with helping push the 13 colonies toward declaring independence from Britain. Despite that legacy, Paine has no permanent memorial in Washington, D.C. — and whether he will get one depends on an approval that has yet to come from Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.

Pediatricians warn federal vaccine guidance changes sow confusion, could harm kids

2026-01-10

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. this week removed universal federal recommendations for childhood vaccines against six diseases, drawing immediate condemnation from pediatricians who said the changes will deepen vaccine hesitancy and lead to more illness and death. On Friday, the American Academy of Pediatrics and more than 200 medical, public health, and patient advocacy groups sent a letter to Congress demanding an investigation into why the schedule was altered and why scientific evidence was bypassed.

Jan. 6 podium carrier Adam Johnson files for Manatee County Commission seat

2026-01-10

Adam Johnson, the Florida man whose photograph carrying then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's podium through the U.S. Capitol became a viral image of the Jan. 6, 2021 riot, filed Tuesday to run as a Republican for an at-large seat on the Manatee County Commission. Johnson filed his candidacy on Jan. 6, 2026 — the fifth anniversary of the Capitol attack — and told a local television station the timing was "not a coincidence."

Cuba braces for collapse as U.S. tanker seizures cut Venezuelan oil supply

2026-01-10

HAVANA — U.S. forces seized their fifth Venezuela-linked oil tanker on Friday as part of a broader administration push to control Venezuelan oil distribution globally, intensifying fears among experts and residents that Cuba's already battered economy may not survive a full cutoff of Venezuelan crude. Cuba had been receiving an estimated 35,000 barrels of oil per day from Venezuela before the Jan. 3 U.S. military operation that resulted in the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro, according to Jorge Piñón of the Energy Institute at the University of Texas at Austin, who tracks shipments using oil tracking services and satellite technology.

Venezuela frees 16 political prisoners in 3 days; 804 remain detained

2026-01-10

Venezuela's government freed 16 people imprisoned for political reasons over three days following its Thursday pledge to release a significant number of detainees in what officials described as a gesture to "seek peace," according to Foro Penal, a Venezuelan advocacy group for prisoners. Eight hundred and four political prisoners remained imprisoned as of Saturday night, Foro Penal said. Officials had not identified or given a number of prisoners being considered for release, leaving rights groups and families waiting outside prisons in Caracas and other communities with little information.

Nobel Institute says Machado can’t share Peace Prize with Trump

2026-01-10

The Norwegian Nobel Institute said Friday that the Nobel Peace Prize, once announced, cannot be revoked, transferred or shared with others—closing the door on talk that Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado could give or share her recent award with President Donald Trump. The comment came after Machado said she would like to pass the prize to Trump and called his role in capturing Nicolás Maduro “historic.”

Anti-ICE protesters march nationwide after shootings in Minneapolis and Portland

2026-01-10

Thousands marched in Minneapolis and other U.S. cities on Saturday to protest shootings in Minnesota and Oregon involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to the Associated Press. The protests followed the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis and the shooting of two people in Portland, Oregon, AP reported.

Former New Jersey acting Gov. Richard Codey dies at 79

2026-01-10

Former New Jersey acting Gov. Richard “Dick” Codey died Sunday at 79, his wife confirmed to The Associated Press. Codey had served as acting governor twice and was the longest serving legislator in state history.

Germany rejects RFK Jr. claims it prosecutes doctors over COVID exemptions

2026-01-10

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said in a video post that Germany is limiting patient autonomy and prosecuting physicians over COVID-19-related exemptions. German Health Minister Nina Warken rejected the claims in a late Saturday statement, saying Kennedy’s assertions were “completely unfounded” and that criminal prosecution was pursued only in cases involving fraud and forged documents.

Harsh realities of Arctic mining undercut Trump’s Greenland rare-earth pitch

2026-01-10

President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States would “do something on Greenland whether they like it or not,” renewing his push to take control of the Arctic island from Denmark as part of an effort to reduce reliance on China for rare earths. The report describes why Greenland’s remoteness, infrastructure gaps and the geology of deposits have so far blocked commercial rare-earth mining. It also quotes experts who say the focus on Greenland has been more about geopolitical posturing than a fast supply solution for critical minerals used in products such as electric-vehicle magnets and wind turbines.

Head of FBI New York office named co-deputy director

2026-01-10

The head of the FBI’s New York field office has been named co-deputy director of the bureau, replacing Dan Bongino after his departure, an FBI spokesperson said Friday. Christopher Raia, who leads the New York office after taking over in April, is expected to start the new job next week alongside Andrew Bailey.

Iran cuts off internet access abroad as protests challenge government

2026-01-10

Iran disconnected the Islamic Republic’s internet and phone lines from the rest of the world Thursday night, limiting communications as nationwide protests intensified over the country’s economy, the Associated Press reported. The shutdown began just after 8 p.m. Thursday, according to AP.

Kenyan widows fight land dispossession as counties consider protection bills

2026-01-10

In western Kenya, widows who lose their husbands also risk losing the land they live on, with relatives sometimes pushing eviction or forced remarriage. Rebecca Anyango, 70, said her late husband’s family threatened to remove her from a home she has called hers for 26 years, even as they filed a lawsuit this year. She and other women described cultural practices that they say violate Kenya’s constitutional protections for land ownership.

Legal challenges by Trump allies could shape how 2030 census is run

2026-01-10

The United States’ next decennial census is four years away, but two federal lawsuits filed this year could affect how the 2030 count is conducted and who is counted. The cases, backed by allies of President Donald Trump, target separate parts of how the Census Bureau plans for the once-a-decade census.

Myanmar begins second election round amid conflict, rights critics urge boycott

2026-01-10

Myanmar began a second round of voting Sunday in its first general election since the military takeover in 2021, with polling expanding to additional townships affected by fighting between the government and armed opponents. The vote, held in 100 townships, is the second phase of an election process scheduled across three phases because of armed conflict. Rights advocates and U.N. officials have urged voters and the international community to reject the polls as unfree and unfair.

Nepal royalists rally for monarchy restoration ahead of March elections

2026-01-10

Nepalese royalists rallied in Kathmandu on Sunday, demanding the restoration of the monarchy ahead of March elections, the first rally by supporters of deposed King Gyanendra, according to the Associated Press. The protesters chanted “We love our king. Bring back the king” around a statue of Prithvi Narayan Shah, who founded the Shah dynasty in the 18th century.

Palestinians flee Ras Ein el-Auja in Jordan Valley as settler harassment rises

2026-01-10

Over two dozen families from the Bedouin village of Ras Ein el-Auja have fled their homes in the central West Bank in recent days, residents said, citing growing harassment by Jewish settlers from nearby unauthorized outposts. The residents said the harassment included settlers entering homes and disrupting daily life.

Polymarket mystery trade after Maduro raid spotlights prediction markets

2026-01-10

A trader at Polymarket reportedly pocketed more than $400,000 after betting that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro would soon be out of office, drawing renewed attention to prediction markets. The bets were placed hours before President Donald Trump announced a nighttime raid that led to Maduro’s capture, according to the report.

Retouched Sara Netanyahu images spark trust and ethics debate in Israel

2026-01-10

Israel’s government has released retouched photos of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s wife, Sara Netanyahu, prompting ethics concerns about trust in official imagery and record-keeping, according to a report and statements from officials and analysts. The debate intensified after digital forensics researchers said the images showed skin smoothing and other edits, and after the Government Press Office said it would handle how such photos are treated in the official archive.

Trump’s Smithsonian portrait label loses impeachment references, AP reports

2026-01-10

President Donald Trump’s photo portrait display at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery has had references to his two impeachments removed, the Associated Press reported. The change removes the “portrait label” text that previously described Trump as “impeached twice” and later noted his 2024 nonconsecutive reelection, according to the AP. The gallery is part of its “American Presidents” exhibition.

Trump signs order to protect Venezuelan oil revenue from U.S. court claims

2026-01-10

President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at protecting revenue from Venezuelan oil that the U.S. is holding from being seized in U.S. judicial proceedings, the White House said. The order was made public Saturday as Trump met with U.S. oil executives, including ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods, in Florida.

Vaccine schedule change uses ‘shared decision-making,’ doctors warn it could confuse

2026-01-10

The Associated Press reported that new U.S. childhood vaccine guidance replaces blanket recommendations for protection against six diseases with recommendations only for certain high-risk children or through “shared clinical decision-making” with a health care provider. Doctors who treat children in the U.S. said the federal changes and the new terminology are confusing parents and could make it harder for some children to get recommended shots.

Venezuelans across Latin America weigh returning after Maduro’s ouster

2026-01-10

Venezuelans who fled across Latin America are watching closely what comes next after U.S. forces deposed Venezuela’s president, with officials in Washington and in countries such as Peru urging some to return. Many say the decision is complicated by the state of Venezuela’s economy, legal uncertainty in host countries and concerns about security forces and food scarcity at home.

Trump brushes off early posting of confidential jobs report data

2026-01-10

President Donald Trump said Friday he was unsure whether officials posted confidential jobs figures early after he shared a graph on social media before the Labor Department’s monthly employment report. The posting, according to the AP report, included unemployment data for December and revisions that were scheduled for release Friday at 8:30 a.m. eastern.

Judge to temporarily block Trump plan to end Family Reunification Parole

2026-01-10

A federal judge in Massachusetts said Friday she expects to temporarily block the Trump administration’s plan to end Family Reunification Parole, a program that has provided temporary legal protections to more than 10,000 relatives of U.S. citizens and green card holders. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani said she planned to issue a temporary restraining order after a hearing, but did not say when it would take effect.

Trump models a “Happy Trump” lapel pin at the White House

2026-01-10

President Donald Trump wore a “Happy Trump” lapel pin during an East Room appearance on Friday while discussing future U.S. control of Venezuela’s energy industry, and he told reporters the pin was made “called a Happy Trump.” The AP reports the cartoon pin has a likeness of Trump with a large head, and Trump said it was given to him by someone he did not identify.

New Sept. 11 visitor education center to break ground near Pentagon

2026-01-10

An Arlington, Virginia, group expects to break ground this summer on a new Sept. 11 visitor education center near the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial, according to Joseph Kornhoff, executive director of the Pentagon Memorial Fund. The planned $35 million facility would include permanent exhibit space and connect to the memorial by pedestrian improvements, with an expected completion by mid-2029.

Ramaswamy says alarmed after federal drug charges against family bodyguard

2026-01-10

Republican Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said he was alarmed after federal drug trafficking charges were filed against a man who worked as his family’s bodyguard. The bodyguard, Justin Salsburey, and his wife, Ruthann Rankin, were charged with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute narcotics through the U.S. mail, according to federal complaints summarized by The Associated Press.

Newsom proposes shifting oversight of California schools; Thurmond says he’s blindsided

2026-01-10

California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday proposed shifting oversight of the state Department of Education from the elected superintendent to the appointed State Board of Education, narrowing the future role of Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. Thurmond said he was blindsided by the plan and questioned how it would benefit students and families.

Judge halts Trump child-care and social-service funding freeze for 5 states

2026-01-10

The Trump administration has told five Democratic-led states that it is restricting some social safety net funds that cover services including child care subsidies, cash assistance and job training. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian on Friday halted the freeze for at least two weeks after the states challenged it in court, arguing it would disrupt services for families with children. Federal officials said the moves are aimed at rooting out fraud, but letters cited “reason to believe” the states were providing illegal aliens benefits.

Treasury Secretary Bessent announces Minnesota crackdown on fraud and remittances

2026-01-10

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent visited Minnesota on Friday and said the Treasury Department is taking a closer look at financial transactions between residents and businesses in the state and Somalia as the Trump administration increases immigration enforcement. Bessent said the department launched actions to combat fraud in Minnesota and launched investigations into four businesses people use to wire money abroad, while declining to identify them.

Supreme Court to take up Cisco's bid to shut down Falun Gong surveillance lawsuit

2026-01-09

The Supreme Court on Friday agreed to hear an appeal from Cisco Systems seeking to dismiss a lawsuit alleging the company's technology helped Chinese authorities identify, track, detain, and torture members of the Falun Gong spiritual movement. The justices will hear arguments in the spring and are expected to issue a ruling by early summer. The Trump administration had urged the court to accept the case on Cisco's behalf.

Iran protests continue as Khamenei signals crackdown; at least 65 killed

2026-01-09

Iran's supreme leader signaled an imminent crackdown on demonstrators Friday as protests across the Islamic Republic persisted into a third week, despite the government cutting internet access and severing international telephone lines. At least 65 people have been killed and more than 2,300 detained since demonstrations began in late December over the country's ailing economy, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.

Records identify Minneapolis ICE shooter as Iraq War veteran Jonathan Ross

2026-01-09

The federal agent who shot and killed Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother, during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis on Jan. 7 is Jonathan Ross, a 43-year-old Iraq War veteran with nearly two decades in the Border Patrol and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to records obtained by The Associated Press. Federal officials declined to publicly name Ross, citing safety concerns for him and his family, but a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson confirmed that DHS Secretary Kristi Noem was referring to Ross when she said the agent had been dragged by a vehicle the previous June.

GOP fractures emerge in midterm year's first week over Venezuela, Greenland, health care

2026-01-09

Republican senators broke with President Donald Trump over Venezuela war powers, and 17 House members crossed party lines on a health care vote, in the first full working week of the 2026 midterm election year. The back-to-back breaks came just days after Trump rallied House Republicans at Washington's Kennedy Center, underscoring growing pockets of resistance as the party begins a difficult campaign to hold both chambers.

Michigan employer-housing fund runs dry after Detroit, Kalamazoo approvals

2026-01-09

Michigan's Employer-Assisted Housing Fund has been exhausted after the state housing authority approved $3.2 million in December for new worker housing projects in Detroit and Kalamazoo, draining a $10 million pool that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer launched in January 2025. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority signed off on both projects at its December board meeting. Whether the program — which has helped produce 619 rental units or homes across the state — will continue depends on a legislature that omitted new funding from its October budget.

Trump administration approves Nevada's $170M broadband plan after earlier rescission

2026-01-09

Federal officials have approved Nevada's plan to spend approximately $170 million of its nearly $500 million federal broadband award to extend high-speed internet to about 28,000 homes, businesses, and community organizations statewide, Gov. Joe Lombardo announced Thursday. The approval came after the Trump administration rescinded Nevada's original broadband plan in June — weeks before construction was set to begin — under revised federal guidelines that favored satellite internet over fiber-optic technology.

California projects $2.9 billion deficit in Newsom's final year as governor

2026-01-09

Gov. Gavin Newsom's administration projected a $2.9 billion budget deficit for California in the current fiscal year, the governor's office said Friday, extending the state's streak of multibillion-dollar shortfalls to four consecutive years. The $2.9 billion projection is lower than the $18 billion shortfall the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst's Office forecast in November. Newsom's administration said revenues came in higher than expected, driven by stock market gains and investment in artificial intelligence, helping narrow the gap. The shortfall nonetheless leaves the Democratic governor with limited room to advance new programs in his final year in office. Newsom cannot seek a third term and leaves office in January.

China's Venezuela oil debt complicates Trump's seizure strategy

2026-01-09

China holds at least $10 billion in outstanding loans from Venezuela backed by crude oil, according to analysts, setting up a potential conflict with the Trump administration's plan to assert direct control over Venezuelan oil sales. Two Chinese state-owned enterprises — China National Petroleum Corp. and Sinopec — are entitled to 4.4 billion barrels of Venezuela's oil reserves under contracts signed with the government of former President Nicolás Maduro, the highest share for any foreign country, according to a Morgan Stanley research note. The competing claims emerge as Trump is expected to travel to Beijing in April to protect a trade truce with Chinese President Xi Jinping, creating pressure on the administration to avoid turning Venezuela into a diplomatic flashpoint, analysts said.

US flu activity dips slightly as health officials warn severe season has not peaked

2026-01-09

U.S. flu activity showed a modest decline last week in two key measures — medical office visits for flu-like illness and the count of states reporting high activity — but federal health officials said the severe season has not peaked and warned that more suffering lies ahead. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated at least 15 million flu illnesses, 180,000 hospitalizations, and 7,400 deaths since the season began, including the deaths of at least 17 children. Even as some indicators eased, flu-related deaths and hospitalizations continued to rise during the same week.

ICE agents shoot two outside Portland hospital; Oregon AG vows probe

2026-01-09

Federal immigration agents shot and wounded two people in a vehicle near Adventist Health hospital in Portland, Oregon, on Thursday afternoon, authorities said, drawing hundreds of protesters to a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building that evening and prompting Oregon's attorney general to open a formal investigation. The Department of Homeland Security said agents were conducting a "targeted vehicle stop" when the driver tried to run them over, and that an agent then fired a "defensive shot." There was no immediate independent corroboration of that account or of the agency's claims about the vehicle occupants' affiliations, the Associated Press reported. The shooting came a day after an ICE officer fatally shot a woman in Minneapolis.

Wife of woman killed by ICE agent in Minneapolis: 'We had whistles. They had guns'

2026-01-09

The wife of Renee Good, the 37-year-old woman shot and killed by a federal immigration officer in Minneapolis, issued her first public statement Friday, describing the couple as having stopped to support their neighbors on the day of the shooting and memorializing Renee Good as a woman of kindness. "We had whistles. They had guns," Becca Good wrote in a statement provided to Minnesota Public Radio. It was her first public comment since her wife's death Wednesday.

Iran's exiled crown prince rises as protests challenge the Islamic Republic

2026-01-09

DUBAI — Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, Iran's exiled heir who has spent nearly five decades outside his homeland, successfully called demonstrators onto the streets Thursday night in what the Associated Press described as a massive escalation of protests sweeping the country. Pahlavi, 65, lives in the United States and issued calls for protest that Farsi-language satellite news channels and websites abroad rebroadcast; Iranians returned to the streets Friday night in response, and he has called for further demonstrations over the weekend. The demonstrations were initially sparked by the Islamic Republic's ailing economy but have grown into a broader challenge to its theocratic government — one battered by years of nationwide unrest and a 12-day war in June launched by Israel during which the United States bombed Iranian nuclear enrichment sites.

Minneapolis schools offer remote learning as ICE enforcement tensions rise

2026-01-09

The Minneapolis school district said Friday it will offer families the option of remote learning through Feb. 12, responding to fears among students and parents following a week of intensifying federal immigration enforcement in the city. The decision came after a federal agent fatally shot Renee Good, described by the Associated Press as a U.S. citizen and mother of three, on Wednesday, and immigration enforcement agents detained someone outside Roosevelt High School near dismissal time the same day. Minneapolis public schools, a district of nearly 30,000 students, closed Thursday and Friday.

Heritage Foundation urges Trump to prioritize marriage, proposes 'marriage bootcamp'

2026-01-09

The Heritage Foundation on Thursday released a policy report urging the Trump administration to make marriage and family formation a federal priority, calling for executive orders that would require every federal grant, contract, regulation, research project, and enforcement action to measure its effect on American families. The report, led by Roger Severino, Heritage's vice president of economic and domestic policy, proposes a "marriage bootcamp" to prepare cohabitating couples for marriage, recommends discouragement of online dating, and argues against in vitro fertilization outside of marriage.

Federal authorities bar Minnesota from ICE shooting probe, claim no state jurisdiction

2026-01-09

A day after a federal immigration officer fatally shot Renee Good, 37, in Minneapolis, federal authorities on Thursday blocked Minnesota state investigators from accessing evidence in the case and declared the state has no jurisdiction to investigate the killing. The FBI told Minnesota law enforcement officials they would not be allowed to participate in the investigation or review key evidence, according to the Associated Press. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz urged federal officials to reconsider, warning that public statements by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and other federal leaders risked undermining confidence in the investigation's fairness.

Nebraska guardian charged with theft kept authority over 25 vulnerable adults for months

2026-01-09

A Nebraska woman charged with three felonies, including abuse of a vulnerable adult, remained the court-appointed guardian for at least 25 vulnerable Nebraskans more than a month after her November arrest, according to a Flatwater Free Press review of court filings in 42 cases. Becky Stamp, who operated a for-profit guardianship business spanning 18 counties, allegedly charged more than $21,000 at stores in York using an account belonging to a man deemed legally incapable of managing his own finances. Judges who appoint and oversee guardians in Nebraska responded unevenly: some moved quickly to suspend Stamp's powers, while others ordered only financial reviews or took no action.

South Dakota's $72 million US 385 rebuild aims to halve crash rate in Black Hills

2026-01-09

South Dakota's Department of Transportation is midway through a $72 million project to rebuild and widen 15 miles of U.S. 385 through the central Black Hills, where the crash rate runs more than double the state average, according to DOT data. The project, which began in 2024 and is scheduled for full completion in 2027, aims to cut that crash rate by 50 percent by eliminating tight curves, expanding sight lines and widening road shoulders from as little as 2 feet to as much as 8 feet.

New ICE officer video raises use-of-force questions in Minneapolis shooting

2026-01-09

A 47-second video recorded from the perspective of ICE officer Jonathan Ross emerged Friday, showing his approach to Renee Good's vehicle in the moments before he shot and killed her during an immigration enforcement operation in Minneapolis — and prompting Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty to call on the public to submit any recordings and evidence to investigators. The footage showed Ross holding both a firearm and a cellphone simultaneously as he circled Good's SUV, a detail that policing experts said raised immediate questions about officer training.

Argentina repays US credit line; Bessent calls deal an 'America First homerun'

2026-01-09

Argentina has repaid the funds it drew from a $20 billion U.S. credit line, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced Friday, marking what he described as a landmark vindication of the Trump administration's financial rescue of President Javier Milei's government. The Argentine Central Bank confirmed the repayment. The U.S. Exchange Stabilization Fund, tapped to fund the bailout, now holds no Argentine pesos, Bessent said.

Southern Arizona data centers advance as fights over power, water and rates intensify

2026-01-09

Two large-scale data centers proposed for Southern Arizona moved forward this week after the Marana Town Council voted unanimously Tuesday night to rezone roughly 600 acres for a facility developed by Beale Infrastructure, and Pima County completed a land sale exceeding $27 million for a second Beale project east of Tucson known as Project Blue on Christmas Eve. The back-to-back advances put the region on the verge of hosting its first major data centers — and deepened a conflict over who will bear the costs of powering and cooling them.

University of Hawaii Cancer Center hit by ransomware; patient notification delayed months

2026-01-09

Hackers broke into University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center servers in August and exposed Social Security numbers and other personal information belonging to participants in a cancer research study, according to a report the university submitted to the Hawaii Legislature in December. Four months after discovering the breach, the university had not yet notified the individuals whose data was stolen.

Federal officers leave Louisiana immigration operation for Minneapolis

2026-01-09

Federal immigration officers stationed in Louisiana are departing for Minneapolis, according to documents obtained by The Associated Press, in an abrupt pivot from a months-long enforcement sweep that drew protests around New Orleans and had targeted 5,000 arrests. Documents indicated that officers were continuing to leave Louisiana for Minneapolis late in the week ending Jan. 9. The shift appeared to signal a wind-down of the Louisiana deployment, known as "Catahoula Crunch," which began in December with more than 200 officers and had been expected to last into February.

GM records $6 billion in charges as EV tax credits expire and emissions rules ease

2026-01-09

General Motors will record approximately $6 billion in charges in the fourth quarter after the U.S. government ended tax incentives for electric vehicle purchases and relaxed auto emissions standards, the Detroit automaker disclosed in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing Thursday. The charges sent GM shares down almost 3% Friday and mark the second consecutive quarter the company has booked significant EV-related write-downs.

Hawaii's physician shortage deepens, leaving state 644 doctors short of need

2026-01-09

Hawaii ended 2025 with fewer working physicians than it started the year with, and a widening gap between the doctors available and the doctors needed, according to a new report to the state Legislature. Of 12,688 licensed physicians in Hawaiʻi, fewer than a third — 3,647 — provided patient care, and when part-time practice is accounted for, the full-time equivalent count fell to just over 3,000, leaving the state 644 doctors short of demand. The gap widens to 833 when the state's island geography is factored in, because emergency, intensive care, and psychiatric physicians on Oʻahu cannot fill needs on the neighbor islands. The findings come from the Hawaiʻi Physician Workforce Assessment Project at the University of Hawaiʻi's John A. Burns School of Medicine, which has tracked the state's physician supply and demand since 2010.

Minneapolis ICE shooting prompts dispute over state probe, immunity

2026-01-09

Federal authorities blocked Minnesota investigators from accessing evidence after an ICE officer fatally shot a woman in Minneapolis, escalating a dispute over whether the state has jurisdiction to investigate or prosecute the killing. The shooting of 37-year-old Renee Good occurred Wednesday, federal officials said, and by Thursday the FBI told Minnesota law enforcement they would not be allowed to participate in the investigation or review key evidence.

Venezuela releases opposition prisoners after Maduro’s capture, AP reports

2026-01-09

Venezuela released high-profile opposition figures, activists and journalists, the government said Thursday, describing the move as a bid to “seek peace.” The releases came less than a week after former President Nicolás Maduro was captured by U.S. forces to face drug-trafficking charges, Associated Press reported.

Judge blocks Trump freeze of child care and social service funds

2026-01-09

The Trump administration has told California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota and New York that it is restricting certain federal social-safety-net funds tied to child care, cash assistance and job training, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. Democratic-led states sued, and a federal judge on Friday halted the freeze for at least two weeks while the legal fight continues. The administration says the steps target fraud, while state officials and outside experts warn delays could disrupt services for low-income families.

Trump brushes off early posting of confidential jobs report data

2026-01-09

President Donald Trump on Friday brushed off questions about posting jobs figures from December that were not supposed to be released until the Labor Department’s monthly employment report. The White House released the graph on social media Thursday night ahead of the 8:30 a.m. ET release, and Trump told reporters he posts numbers he is given.

Judge to temporarily block effort to end Family Reunification Parole

2026-01-09

A federal judge in Boston said Friday she expects to temporarily block efforts by the Trump administration to end Family Reunification Parole, a program that has offered temporary legal protections to more than 10,000 family members of U.S. citizens and green card holders. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani said she planned to issue a temporary restraining order after a hearing, while scrutinizing whether the government gave adequate written notice to affected people.

New Sept. 11 visitor center planned near Pentagon for mid-2029

2026-01-09

A new Sept. 11 visitor education center near the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial is expected to reach a key milestone later this year, with groundbreaking planned for this summer, Joseph Kornhoff, the executive director of the Pentagon Memorial Fund, said Friday. The center would be located about 200 yards from the memorial and would include permanent exhibits, with an expected completion date in mid-2029, according to Kornhoff.

Newsom proposes reducing California superintendent role; Thurmond says blindsided

2026-01-09

Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed in his State of the State address on Thursday to shift oversight of California’s Department of Education from the state superintendent to the State Board of Education, curtailing the superintendent’s duties. Tony Thurmond, the elected state superintendent, said he was blindsided by the proposal and questioned how it would benefit students and families.

Ramaswamy says he was alarmed after bodyguard faces federal drug charges

2026-01-09

The Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said he was alarmed after federal drug-trafficking charges were filed against a man who worked as his family’s bodyguard, according to a campaign spokesperson. The man, Justin Salsburey, and his wife, Ruthann Rankin, face conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute narcotics charges tied to parcels mailed to their home in western Ohio, the Associated Press reported.

Treasury Secretary Bessent orders Minnesota scrutiny of Somalia-linked money flows

2026-01-09

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the Treasury Department is taking a closer look at financial transactions involving Minnesotan residents and businesses and Somalia as the federal government ramps up its immigration crackdown in the state. Bessent made the remarks during a Friday visit amid protests in Minneapolis after an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer shot and killed a woman in a residential neighborhood on Wednesday.

Trump directs Fannie, Freddie to buy $200B in mortgage bonds to lower rates

2026-01-08

President Donald Trump said Thursday he is directing the federal government to purchase $200 billion in mortgage bonds, using cash reserves held by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two government-controlled mortgage companies. Trump posted the announcement on social media, saying the move would drive mortgage rates and monthly payments down and make homeownership more affordable. The White House did not immediately respond to questions about the timeline for the purchases.

CBO projects Fed rate cuts in 2026 as Treasury yields, mortgage costs set to rise

2026-01-08

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office projected Thursday that the Federal Reserve will cut its benchmark interest rate in 2026, with the key rate settling at 3.4% by the end of President Donald Trump's term in 2028. The projection carries a significant caveat for home buyers: even as short-term rates fall, the 10-year Treasury yield — the benchmark that sets mortgage rates — stood at 4.15% on January 8 and is projected to climb to 4.3% by the fourth quarter of 2028, meaning mortgage borrowing costs could increase over the next two years.

House passes ACA subsidy extension 230-196 as 17 Republicans defy GOP leadership

2026-01-08

The House passed legislation Thursday to extend expired Affordable Care Act health insurance subsidies by a 230-196 vote, with 17 Republican lawmakers joining every Democrat in a cross-party coalition that defied Speaker Mike Johnson and bypassed his objections through a procedural maneuver. The three-year subsidy extension now heads to the Senate, where the House bill faces an uncertain path amid negotiations over a separate bipartisan framework.

Connecticut public-sector health plan posts $23M deficit as medical costs surge

2026-01-08

Connecticut's state-run health insurance partnership for municipal workers paid nearly $22.6 million more in claims than it collected in premiums in the 2024-25 fiscal year, which ended June 30, according to a report from state Comptroller Sean Scanlon's office released this week. The plan paid out nearly $731.4 million in total claims during the year, serving roughly 60,000 public-sector workers and their family members across 109 of the state's 169 cities and towns. Scanlon attributed the shortfall to surging hospital service fees and medical inflation, which he said have pressured health plans nationally.

Senate votes to display Jan. 6 police plaque, rebuffing House Speaker Johnson

2026-01-08

The Senate voted Thursday without objection to display a plaque honoring police officers who defended the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6, 2021 attack, acting during the fifth-anniversary week of the siege and amid a White House campaign to reshape the historical record of that day. The bipartisan floor action came after senators learned that the plaque — mandated by Congress more than three years ago and required by law to be installed in 2023 — had never been displayed at the Capitol, with many House lawmakers instead hanging replicas outside their office doors.

House passes three spending bills 397-28, averting Jan. 30 shutdown deadline

2026-01-08

The House passed a bipartisan package of three federal spending bills Thursday by a vote of 397 to 28, funding several government agencies through September and reducing the risk of a second shutdown before a Jan. 30 deadline. Congressional leaders from both parties backed the measure, and the White House described it as a "fiscally responsible bill," signaling likely passage in the Senate as well.

Senate advances war powers resolution 52-47 to constrain Trump on Venezuela

2026-01-08

The Senate advanced a war powers resolution 52-47 on Thursday, with five Republicans joining Democrats to require congressional approval before President Donald Trump can conduct further military operations against Venezuela. The vote, which ensures a final-passage debate next week, came days after U.S. forces seized Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in a surprise overnight raid.

Michigan approves employer-assisted housing projects in Detroit, Kalamazoo

2026-01-08

Michigan’s Housing Development Authority approved new employer-assisted housing projects for Detroit and Kalamazoo, even as a state fund supporting the program is left with limited remaining money. The projects, totaling $3.2 million, were approved last month and are expected to be funded by the remaining balance of a $10 million Employer-Assisted Housing Fund Gov. Gretchen Whitmer unveiled in January 2025.

Denmark, Greenland envoys meet White House amid Trump's Greenland acquisition push

2026-01-08

Denmark's ambassador to Washington and Greenland's chief representative met Thursday with White House National Security Council officials, pressing U.S. officials to step back from President Donald Trump's call to acquire the Arctic island — possibly by military force, according to Danish government officials who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly. The envoys also held a series of meetings this week with American lawmakers, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet with Danish officials next week.

Judge disqualifies federal prosecutor in Letitia James investigation

2026-01-08

A federal judge on Thursday disqualified the Trump administration's acting U.S. attorney for the Northern District of New York from overseeing investigations into state Attorney General Letitia James, ruling that he had no lawful authority to hold the position. U.S. District Judge Lorna G. Schofield blocked subpoenas that John Sarcone had sought seeking information about James' lawsuits against President Donald Trump and the National Rifle Association, finding that the Justice Department had circumvented the statutory process for appointing interim prosecutors after district judges declined to extend Sarcone's tenure.

Connecticut weighs enrollment extension as ACA subsidy lapse spikes premiums

2026-01-08

Connecticut officials said Thursday they are considering extending the state's 2026 Affordable Care Act open enrollment deadline by one to two months, citing ongoing uncertainty over whether Congress will revive enhanced premium subsidies that lapsed Dec. 31. Access Health CT CEO James Michel said the marketplace is in discussions with carriers about pushing the final deadline — currently Jan. 31 — into February or March if federal action comes within the next few weeks. The pandemic-era enhanced subsidies had been in place since 2021. Their lapse has pushed premiums sharply higher for many Connecticut residents and millions of Americans nationwide. As of Jan. 2, roughly 150,000 Connecticut residents had enrolled in 2026 ACA plans — about 3 to 5 percent above the same point last year — even without the enhanced subsidies, Michel said.

Trump blasts defense contractor dividends, then proposes $1.5 trillion military budget

2026-01-08

Defense contractor shares swung sharply this week after President Donald Trump criticized major military suppliers on Truth Social for paying billions in dividends and stock buybacks while underinvesting in production capacity, then reversed investor anxiety by proposing a $1.5 trillion defense budget for fiscal year 2027. Shares of Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, and RTX — the parent of Raytheon — fell on Trump's initial posts, then recovered after he announced the proposed budget, which would represent a substantial increase from the $901 billion allocated for 2026.

Federal judge blocks Trump's purge of DEI terms from Head Start grant applications

2026-01-08

A federal judge in Seattle temporarily blocked the Trump administration from requiring Head Start grant applicants to strip out words associated with diversity, equity and inclusion, and barred the Department of Health and Human Services from laying off additional federal employees in its Office of Head Start. U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez issued the order Monday in a lawsuit brought by organizations representing Head Start providers and parents against HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other administration officials. The suit accuses the administration of illegally dismantling the six-decade-old early childhood program.

Defense stocks surge on Trump military spending pledge as Wall Street drifts

2026-01-08

Defense contractors posted sharp gains Thursday after President Donald Trump announced plans to raise U.S. military spending to $1.5 trillion in 2027, while the broader market moved in a narrow range amid mixed economic data. The S&P 500 added less than a point to close at 6,921.46 — remaining near its all-time high set earlier in the week — while the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 270 points and the Nasdaq composite fell 104 points to 23,480.02.

Steny Hoyer, longest-serving House Democrat, announces retirement at 86

2026-01-08

Rep. Steny Hoyer of Maryland, the longest-serving Democrat in Congress, announced Thursday that he will retire at the end of his current term. The 86-year-old, who first arrived in the House in 1981, delivered a 10-minute floor speech warning that the chamber "is not living up to the Founders' goals." Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle stood and applauded when he finished, coming forward one by one to shake his hand or embrace him.

Giffords returns to House floor 15 years after Tucson assassination attempt

2026-01-08

Former Rep. Gabby Giffords walked onto the House floor Thursday, 15 years to the day after a gunman shot her in the head at a constituent meeting in Tucson, Arizona, drawing a standing ovation from Democratic colleagues as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries pledged gun control legislation as a top priority if Democrats reclaim the House majority in November's midterm elections.

Trump administration OKs Nevada broadband plan after rescinding approval

2026-01-08

Gov. Joe Lombardo said Thursday that the Trump administration has approved Nevada’s plan to use about $170 million from a federal award to expand high-speed internet to about 28,000 locations. The state’s earlier proposal—approved for about 50,000 locations—was rescinded after new federal broadband rules were issued last year.

Nevada governor launches ballot drive to ban transgender athletes from women's sports

2026-01-08

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo announced Wednesday that he is leading a petition drive to amend the state constitution to bar transgender athletes from competing in girls' and women's sports, even though bans are already in place at both the state and national level. The Protect Girls' Sports In Nevada PAC filed its ballot initiative language Wednesday and must collect at least 148,788 valid signatures by June 24 to qualify the measure for the ballot.

Nebraska lawmakers consider first-ever expulsion over misconduct complaint

2026-01-08

Nebraska lawmakers were asked on Jan. 7 to consider a motion to expel state Sen. Dan McKeon over allegations of sexually inappropriate conduct toward a legislative staffer last year. The Nebraska Legislature’s Executive Board scheduled a hearing on the expulsion resolution for Monday, with the full Legislature potentially taking up the matter as soon as Tuesday.

Newsom faces $2.9 billion deficit in final year as California governor

2026-01-08

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s administration said the state faces a $2.9 billion budget deficit this year, a shortfall that could still require cuts even as the governor proposes a $349 billion budget. The announcement comes with Newsom in his final months in office, after Democrats last year rolled back plans amid a $12 billion deficit.

Grammy-nominated singer Sonia De Los Santos cancels Kennedy Center shows over unwelcoming climate

2026-01-08

Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Sonia De Los Santos canceled two children's concerts and a planned audience conversation at Washington's Kennedy Center — all scheduled for Feb. 7 — citing what she described as an unwelcoming atmosphere at the venue for immigrants, her band, and her audience. De Los Santos, a Mexican American artist, announced the withdrawal Thursday on Instagram.

Trump pulls U.S. from UN climate framework, experts warn of global damage

2026-01-08

The Trump administration on Wednesday began the process of withdrawing the United States from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the principal body through which nations negotiate, monitor, and enforce agreements to limit global warming. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the move, which also included simultaneous withdrawals from a U.N. climate science panel, a biodiversity initiative, the Green Climate Fund, and several other international environmental collaborations. Climate experts said the action goes further than Trump's earlier withdrawals from the Paris Agreement.

Texas A&M policy puts 200 courses under review, cancels race and ethnicity class

2026-01-08

A Texas A&M University System policy restricting classroom discussion of race and gender has put roughly 200 courses in the College of Arts and Sciences under review, administrators told faculty this week, with one introductory course already canceled and a philosophy professor directed to remove Plato readings days before the spring semester begins Jan. 12.

Officials withheld evidence of $608M federal deal for Alligator Alcatraz, groups say

2026-01-08

ORLANDO, Fla. — Federal and state officials concealed evidence from a federal appeals court showing that the Department of Homeland Security had agreed to reimburse Florida for building the "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration detention center in the Everglades, environmental groups said Wednesday in court filings. Friends of the Everglades and the Center for Biological Diversity said the newly disclosed records — obtained through a public records request — should now be considered as judges decide the facility's permanent fate. The Everglades facility remains open and continues to hold detainees.

UN says US has legal obligation to pay dues after Trump pulls from 66 international bodies

2026-01-08

The United Nations asserted Thursday that the United States remains legally bound to pay its dues to U.N. agencies after President Donald Trump signed an executive order suspending American support for 66 international groups, agencies and commissions, including 31 U.N.-related bodies. Secretary-General António Guterres said he regretted the decision. "Assessed contributions to the United Nations regular budget and peacekeeping budget, as approved by the General Assembly, are a legal obligation under the UN Charter for all Member States, including the United States," Stéphane Dujarric, a spokesperson for Guterres, said in a statement.

Michigan EV registration fees jump to nation's highest under road funding deal

2026-01-08

Michigan's roughly 122,000 electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle owners face the nation's highest special registration surcharges in 2026, after a road funding package signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer triggered an automatic fee increase tied to the state's gas tax rate. Annual fees for light-duty EVs climbed from $160 to $267, while plug-in hybrid fees rose from $60 to $113, surpassing all 40 states that levy a similar charge, according to Bridge Michigan and the Associated Press.

Georgia foster care agency faces $85M deficit while state holds $14B surplus

2026-01-08

Georgia's Division of Family and Children Services faces a projected budget shortfall of between $85 million and $87.5 million for the current fiscal year, forcing an immediate near-halt on new foster care placements and the elimination of supplemental support for children with complex medical and developmental needs — even as the state reports a $14 billion budget surplus. The deficit was disclosed at a Joint Judiciary Juvenile and Appropriations Human Resources Subcommittee meeting on December 18, 2025, drawing sharp criticism from state legislators over the gap between the agency's austerity measures and the state's overall fiscal health.

Newsom proposes shifting California K-12 oversight from elected school chief to appointed board

2026-01-08

California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday proposed reducing the authority of the state's elected State Superintendent of Public Instruction and placing day-to-day control of K-12 schools under the State Board of Education, an 11-member panel the governor appoints. Under the plan, the board would absorb the California Department of Education, which currently operates under the superintendent's direction, while the superintendent would shift to a broader advisory and coordination role across early childhood through postsecondary education.

North Carolina faces $50M funding loss over flawed immigrant trucker licenses

2026-01-08

The U.S. Transportation Department warned North Carolina on Thursday that the state could lose nearly $50 million in federal funding unless it revokes commercial driver's licenses issued to immigrants who are not qualified to hold them. A federal review of 50 such licenses found problems with more than half, and 924 unexpired licenses of this type remain active in the state.

Vance calls Minneapolis woman's ICE shooting death 'a tragedy of her own making'

2026-01-08

Vice President JD Vance on Thursday blamed a Minneapolis woman's fatal shooting by a federal immigration officer on "a left-wing network," Democrats, the news media, and the woman herself, appearing at the White House briefing room as protests over her killing spread to cities across the country. Vance called the death of 37-year-old Renee Good — shot Wednesday while trying to drive away during an immigration enforcement operation on a snowy residential Minneapolis street — "a tragedy of her own making."

ICE killing of Minneapolis woman deepens Minnesota's conflict with Trump

2026-01-08

An Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer shot and killed Renee Good, 37, during a protest against immigration raids in Minneapolis on Wednesday, the latest and most violent confrontation in a mounting conflict between the Trump administration and Minnesota. Good was killed just blocks from where a Minneapolis police officer killed George Floyd in 2020 — a geographic proximity that drew painful comparisons to the disorder that followed Floyd's death. The Trump administration had announced the previous day that it was sending more than 2,000 federal officers to the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul in what it claimed would be the largest immigration enforcement operation in U.S. history.

Protests erupt in Minneapolis as officials dispute jurisdiction in fatal ICE shooting

2026-01-08

Dozens of protesters gathered Thursday outside a Minneapolis federal building being used as a base for the Trump administration's immigration enforcement operation, a day after an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer shot and killed Renee Good, 37, a U.S. citizen, in a residential neighborhood south of downtown Minneapolis. Border Patrol officers responded with tear gas and pepper spray to push demonstrators back from the gate. Area schools were closed as a safety precaution.

Vermont reaffirms childhood vaccine schedule after CDC narrows federal list

2026-01-08

Vermont health officials reaffirmed the state's existing childhood immunization schedule Tuesday after the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention moved six vaccines out of its recommended category the previous day. Vermont Health Commissioner Rick Hildebrant told state lawmakers that vaccines for flu, RSV, meningococcal disease, and hepatitis A and B remain recommended or required for child care and school attendance in Vermont — unchanged from the schedule that preceded the federal action.

Google adds AI personal assistant features to Gmail for 3 billion users

2026-01-08

Google announced Thursday new artificial intelligence features for Gmail designed to personalize users' writing, answer questions drawn from inbox content, and generate daily to-do lists — an expansion the company said is aimed at turning the world's most popular email service, which counts more than 3 billion users, into a proactive personal assistant.

Hawaii County homeless population grows despite $33 million investment

2026-01-08

Hawaii County's homeless population has continued to grow despite nearly $33 million in county spending on homeless programs over four years, according to reporting by Honolulu Civil Beat distributed through the Associated Press. The Hawaii County Council approved a new $6 million allocation for outreach and housing nonprofits last month on a narrow 5-4 vote, as several council members questioned whether the spending has produced measurable results.

Fabricated images and false names spread online after ICE shooting in Minneapolis

2026-01-08

Fabricated and misrepresented images spread widely on social media in the hours after Renee Good, a 37-year-old Minneapolis mother of three, was fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer Wednesday, the Associated Press reported Thursday. The wave of false content included AI-generated images purporting to show the masked officer's face, photographs of unrelated women falsely identified as Good, a tattoo image from a video posted two days before the shooting, and a misrepresented clip of Florida's governor.

Austin Peay reinstates professor, pays $500K after firing over Charlie Kirk post

2026-01-08

Austin Peay State University has reinstated a tenured professor and agreed to pay him $500,000 after firing him for a social media post he shared following the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, the Clarksville, Tennessee, school announced. Darren Michael, who teaches theater and dance, returned to his position effective Dec. 30 under a settlement that Tennessee's governor, attorney general, and comptroller authorized.

Hochul and Mamdani unveil free child care plan for NYC 2-year-olds

2026-01-08

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced Thursday a plan to provide free child care for 2-year-olds in the city, marking the new mayor's first significant policy achievement one week into his administration. The two Democrats unveiled the proposal at a celebratory event in Brooklyn, with Mamdani casting it as evidence that ambitious campaign promises can survive contact with the realities of governing.

Colorado AG accuses Trump of 'revenge campaign' over refusal to free convicted clerk

2026-01-08

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser amended a federal lawsuit Thursday, accusing the Trump administration of waging a "revenge campaign" against the state by cutting federal funds and ending programs after Colorado refused to release Tina Peters, a former Mesa County elections clerk serving a nine-year prison sentence for orchestrating a data breach scheme rooted in false claims about the 2020 election. Weiser linked a series of adverse federal actions directly to the administration's demands that Colorado free Peters and abandon its mail-in voting system.

Minneapolis ICE shooting renews debate over lethal force rules for moving vehicles

2026-01-08

An ICE agent fatally shot a Minneapolis woman during an immigration enforcement operation Wednesday, reviving a debate over when law enforcement officers may legally use lethal force against someone in a moving vehicle. The woman, identified by family members as Renee Nicole Good, 37, died after being shot in a confrontation captured on cellphone video. The killing drew immediate and conflicting responses from federal authorities, who defended the agent's actions, and local officials, who questioned whether deadly force was justified.

Brown students documented campus shooting on Sidechat 15 minutes before official alert

2026-01-08

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Fifteen minutes before Brown University sent its first active-shooter alert on Dec. 13, students were already documenting the attack on Sidechat, an anonymous campus message board, according to an Associated Press analysis of nearly 8,000 posts from the 36 hours following the shooting. The attack, which killed two students at the Ivy League institution, unfolded during finals week inside Barus and Holley, an academic building on the Providence campus.

IRS sets Jan. 26 start for 2026 tax season despite 26% workforce cut

2026-01-08

The IRS will begin accepting 2025 income tax returns on Jan. 26, opening a filing season complicated by a 26% reduction in agency staffing and retroactive tax law changes in Republicans' spending package enacted last summer. The deadline to file and avoid penalties and interest remains April 15. The agency expects to receive roughly 164 million individual income tax returns, on par with last year.

Minneapolis protests erupt over ICE killing of Renee Good as Portland shooting draws scrutiny

2026-01-08

Hundreds of people marched through Minneapolis in freezing rain Thursday night, chanting "ICE out now" and demanding accountability after a federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer fatally shot Renee Good, 37, a mother of three, the day before. A second shooting by federal agents outside a Portland, Oregon, hospital wounded two people on the same day, escalating national attention on the Trump administration's immigration enforcement operations across the country. Good's death occurred on the second day of what the Department of Homeland Security described as the largest immigration enforcement operation in history, involving more than 2,000 officers deployed to the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said officers had made more than 1,500 arrests. Minnesota state investigators said Thursday they had been shut out of the probe into Good's death after the FBI and the Justice Department declined to cooperate with the state, setting off a dispute over accountability that Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called unacceptable.

Samsung AI fridge, Amazon Ring doorbell win CES 'Worst in Show' anti-awards

2026-01-08

Consumer and privacy advocates announced the annual "Worst in Show" anti-awards at the CES gadget expo in Las Vegas on Thursday, naming Samsung's voice-activated AI refrigerator the overall worst product of the show and citing Amazon's Ring doorbell camera system for what judges called a significant expansion of home surveillance. The independent contest — whose judges have no affiliation with CES or the Consumer Technology Association that organizes the show — singles out products considered invasive, wasteful or unnecessarily fragile.

Iran cuts internet and phones as exiled prince's call draws mass protests

2026-01-08

Iran's government cut off internet access and blocked international telephone calls Thursday night as thousands of demonstrators heeded a call from exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi and filled streets across Tehran and other cities, according to the internet monitoring firms CloudFlare and NetBlocks, both of which attributed the blackout to Iranian government interference. Violence around the ongoing protests has killed at least 42 people and led to the detention of more than 2,270 others, the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency said.

Family mourns Renee Good, U.S. citizen and mother shot by ICE agent in Minneapolis

2026-01-08

Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three and U.S. citizen born in Colorado, was fatally shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer Wednesday while seated in her vehicle on a Minneapolis street. On Thursday, family members, friends, and neighbors mourned a woman they described as gentle, kind, and devoted to her children, even as Trump administration officials continued to characterize Good as a domestic terrorist who had attempted to ram federal agents with her car. Good had dropped off her youngest child at an elementary school in Minneapolis that morning before the encounter. Bystander video posted to social media shows an ICE officer approaching her Honda Pilot, demanding she open the door and grabbing the handle; when she began to pull forward, a second officer standing in front of the vehicle fired at least two shots into the car at close range. The entire incident was over in less than 10 seconds.

AP photographer Matias Delacroix explains “echoes from the past” photo

2026-01-08

The Associated Press photographer Matias Delacroix said an armed woman on the back of a motorcycle in Caracas reminded him of a well-known photograph from the 1990s. Delacroix described how he shot the image in the aftermath of U.S. strikes that ended with the capture of President Nicolás Maduro.

Cyprus alleges Russian disinformation video targets leadership as corrupt

2026-01-08

Cyprus said it was hit by a malicious disinformation campaign that seeks to portray the country’s leadership as corrupt, accusing Russia of using familiar techniques. The government pointed to an 8½-minute video posted online Thursday ahead of a parliamentary election due in four months.

Duffy says $160M withheld from California over delayed revocations

2026-01-08

California will lose $160 million in federal transportation funding after federal officials said the state delayed revoking about 17,000 commercial driver’s licenses issued to some immigrants, the officials announced Wednesday. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said he had already withheld $40 million and accused Gov. Gavin Newsom of failing to meet safety requirements.

Federal immigration officers leave Louisiana for Minneapolis, documents show

2026-01-08

Federal immigration officers are pulling out of a Louisiana immigration crackdown and heading to Minneapolis, according to documents obtained by The Associated Press. The shift comes as the Trump administration surges federal officers to Minnesota for a large enforcement operation. The documents describe the change as an abrupt pivot from a deployment that triggered protests around New Orleans.

Georgia Republicans seek to abolish state income tax by 2032

2026-01-08

Georgia Republicans moved this week to end the state’s personal income tax by 2032, setting off a debate over how a zero-income-tax plan would be paid for. The proposal, backed by Republican leaders in the state Senate, would also expand exemptions and follows years of income-tax cuts under Gov. Brian Kemp.

Heritage Foundation report calls for federal focus on marriage and families

2026-01-08

The Heritage Foundation released a report urging the U.S. government to prioritize marriage and the formation of families, including proposals such as a “marriage bootcamp” and a “universal day of rest.” The report, published Thursday, also calls for executive orders that would require federal agencies to measure how programs and policies help or harm “marriage and family.”

Iran protests continue as Khamenei warns of crackdown amid internet blackout

2026-01-08

Protests in Iran continued into Friday night despite an internet and phone blackout ordered by the authorities, with state television and other officials signaling a crackdown. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei told a crowd that protesters were “ruining their own streets” to please U.S. President Donald Trump and warned that punishment would follow.

Mass Nazarene procession in Manila tests security as corruption anger grows

2026-01-08

Thousands of Filipino Catholics joined an annual procession in Manila on Friday, following a centuries-old statue of Jesus Christ through the capital while security tightened restrictions and thousands of worshippers pushed for close access. The event drew chants calling for imprisonment of lawmakers amid public anger over a corruption scandal involving legislators, police reported while officials described bans and crowd-control measures.

Minneapolis schools offer monthlong remote option amid federal immigration tensions

2026-01-08

Minneapolis school officials said Friday they will give families the option of remote learning for a month, after growing concerns that federal immigration enforcement could make some children feel unsafe getting to campus. The district said teachers will deliver lessons simultaneously in classrooms and to students at home.

Stanford students go on trial over 2024 pro-Palestinian protest office occupations

2026-01-08

A trial began Friday for five current and former Stanford University students accused in 2024 of occupying the university president’s offices during a pro-Palestinian protest. Prosecutors said the demonstrators barricaded themselves inside the offices for several hours on June 5, 2024, and damaged property. Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen said the group’s actions went too far, while defense attorneys said the defendants are exercising their right to a jury trial.

Nebraska senator faces historic expulsion vote over harassment allegations

2026-01-08

Nebraska lawmakers opened the 2026 legislative session Wednesday with a motion to expel Sen. Dan McKeon, a Republican, over allegations that he made a sexually charged remark to a legislative staffer and touched her inappropriately at a session-end party last May. If the full Legislature votes to remove him next week, it will be the first expulsion in the body's history. McKeon, 59, said he has no plans to resign.

House declines to override Trump vetoes for Colorado water, Miccosukee

2026-01-08

The House on Thursday refused to override President Donald Trump’s vetoes of two bills, leaving the measures to die as Republicans largely chose not to confront him in an election year. The bills involved a Colorado water pipeline project and a provision affecting the Miccosukee Indian Reservation in Florida.

Trump’s tough talk after Maduro capture evokes American imperialism

2026-01-08

The Associated Press reports President Donald Trump has linked a U.S. military raid that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to a broader message of American dominance in the Western Hemisphere. In the days since the operation, Trump has also pressed allies and neighbors, raised pressure on Venezuela’s interim government, and cited American preeminence in the region.

Rubio quarterbacks Venezuela and other major Trump actions

2026-01-08

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a longtime Florida Republican, has emerged as a key point person for President Donald Trump’s foreign policy, aides say, including in the U.S. operation that ousted Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro. In private briefings and public remarks, Rubio has sought to temper more bombastic rhetoric while advancing the administration’s plans for Venezuela and addressing concerns about statements on Greenland.

Trump greenlights Russia sanctions bill backed by Sen. Lindsey Graham

2026-01-08

President Donald Trump has “greenlit” a hard-hitting sanctions package aimed at punishing Russia for its war in Ukraine, Sen. Lindsey Graham said after meeting the president at the White House. Graham and Sen. Richard Blumenthal’s bill would allow the administration to impose tariffs and secondary sanctions on countries that purchase Russian energy and other exports.

House Speaker Johnson invites President Trump to deliver State of the Union Feb. 24

2026-01-08

Speaker Mike Johnson has invited President Donald Trump to deliver the first State of the Union address of his second term on Feb. 24, with the invitation noting the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence. Johnson’s letter, sent Wednesday, said he and Trump would “advance” work “ahead of us in 2026,” including “defending liberty” and “preserving this grand experiment in self-governance.” The address comes as voters head toward a midterm election that will affect whether Republicans keep control of Congress.

Aging sewers threaten health in poor communities as Trump aid is cut

2026-01-08

Poor communities threatened by aging sewer systems face new hurdles as federal grant and loan support promised under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is canceled or targeted for elimination under President Donald Trump’s administration, according to an Associated Press investigation. The reporting centers on Cahokia Heights, Illinois, and other majority-Black areas in Alabama and Georgia where sewage overflows and flooding have damaged homes and exposed residents to untreated waste, while local officials and advocates say help has been reduced.

Reality TV star Spencer Pratt announces bid for Los Angeles mayor

2026-01-08

Spencer Pratt, a reality television personality who lost his home in the deadly Palisades wildfire, said Wednesday he intends to run for mayor of Los Angeles in 2026, framing the effort as “a mission” to “expose the system.” Pratt, a Republican, made the announcement at a fire-anniversary rally that criticized state and local government’s handling of the Jan. 7 blaze.

White House says East Wing demolition was cheaper than saving it

2026-01-08

The White House told a federal review commission on Thursday that it was not feasible to save the East Wing of the White House because of structural problems, decay and water damage, and it said demolition and reconstruction would cost less over time. At a public meeting, officials also outlined preliminary plans for President Donald Trump’s new ballroom, including a projected height that a commissioner said could overwhelm existing buildings.

Five Democratic states sue Trump administration over frozen safety-net funds

2026-01-08

Attorneys general in five Democratic-led states filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump’s administration, seeking to stop a freeze on billions in social safety-net funding. The states argue the White House action improperly withholds money Congress already approved for programs that support low-income families, including child care, cash assistance and job training, and social services.

Trump administration to leave 66 international organizations, White House lists

2026-01-08

The Trump administration says it will depart 66 international organizations, nearly half of them affiliated with the United Nations, according to a White House list provided to The Associated Press. The list groups the departures into non-UN organizations and U.N. organizations covering a range of issues including climate, labor, migration and other topics the administration has criticized as “woke.” The Associated Press published the names of the 66 organizations.

Trump invites Colombian president to White House after Petro call

2026-01-08

President Donald Trump abruptly shifted tone on Wednesday about Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro, saying the two exchanged a friendly phone call and that he invited Petro to visit the White House. The invitation came days after Trump said Colombia was “very sick too” and accused Petro of helping fuel U.S. drug problems, amid rising tensions between Washington and Bogotá over Venezuela.

Josh Shapiro kicks off bid for second term as Pennsylvania governor

2026-01-08

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro announced he is running for a second term on Jan. 8, positioning himself as a steady Democratic leader in a pivotal battleground state. He held events in Pittsburgh and later Philadelphia, warning that his opponents’ promises would bring “darkness and division and extremism” and citing “chaos and toxicity” from Washington, D.C.

Trump EPA rolls back grant and environmental justice support for water systems

2026-01-08

Scores of U.S. wastewater systems are failing to meet federal pollution limits, but the Trump administration has moved to cut or end some Environmental Protection Agency programs and grants aimed at communities most affected, The Associated Press reported. Advocates say the cuts, including steps tied to diversity, equity and inclusion, could widen health and economic disparities as communities struggle to fund maintenance and upgrades.

Federal judge ends 1967 DeSoto Parish school desegregation order

2026-01-08

The Trump administration and Louisiana officials have lifted another decades-old school desegregation order in DeSoto Parish, where a federal judge approved a joint motion to dismiss a 1967 lawsuit. The order had required the district, a northwest Louisiana system of about 5,000 students, to eliminate segregation and provide regular progress reports.

States weigh Medicaid, SNAP and taxes after Trump’s sweeping law

2026-01-08

State legislatures and governors are set to make major budget and policy decisions in 2026 after President Donald Trump signed a sweeping federal law that shifts more responsibilities to the states. The changes will affect Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and how states respond to federal tax cuts, amid what lawmakers and policy experts describe as some of the tightest state budgets since the early pandemic.

Newsom touts California as blueprint for the nation in final State speech

2026-01-08

Gavin Newsom used his final State of the State address Thursday to present California as a national model, saying the state must stand up to Republican President Donald Trump’s “assault on our values.” Speaking to lawmakers in Sacramento, the Democrat also defended his record and highlighted initiatives on homelessness, crime and climate policy as he nears the end of eight years as governor.

Wall Street rally stalls as Trump posts drag homebuilders; oil falls on Venezuela

2026-01-07

Wall Street's four-day winning streak ended Wednesday as the S&P 500 slipped from its latest record, with homebuilder and real-estate stocks leading declines after President Donald Trump posted social media comments targeting institutional home buyers, while crude oil prices fell after Trump announced a Venezuelan oil supply deal.

House advances ACA subsidy extension as bipartisan bloc overrules GOP leaders

2026-01-07

The House voted 221-205 on Wednesday to advance a three-year extension of enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies that expired last month, with nine Republicans joining Democrats to overpower Speaker Mike Johnson and House GOP leadership. The procedural vote, forced by a rare discharge petition, sets up a final-passage vote expected Thursday. Four Republican centrists — Reps. Mike Lawler of New York and Brian Fitzpatrick, Robert Bresnahan, and Ryan Mackenzie of Pennsylvania — signed the discharge petition to push it to the 218 signatures required to compel a floor vote. All four represent competitive swing districts expected to help determine which party controls the House after fall elections.

Montana Supreme Court blocks ballot measure targeting corporate campaign donations

2026-01-07

The Montana Supreme Court on Tuesday ruled that a proposed ballot initiative aimed at ending corporate spending in state political campaigns is unconstitutional, siding with Attorney General Austin Knudsen's earlier rejection of the measure. The initiative, backed by a group of former Montana public officeholders, would have prohibited corporations, nonprofits, and other incorporated entities from donating to campaigns and political committees — and would have closed a pathway through which individuals make anonymous political donations by routing money through corporate entities.

Trump White House rescinds NEPA regulations to speed energy project approvals

2026-01-07

The Trump administration on Wednesday finalized a plan to rescind federal regulations implementing the National Environmental Policy Act, the 56-year-old law requiring federal agencies to assess a project's environmental impacts before granting approval. The White House Council on Environmental Quality, led by Katherine Scarlett, said the action eliminates bureaucratic delays that have slowed energy and infrastructure projects for years.

Canadian PM Mark Carney to visit China next week as ties thaw

2026-01-07

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Wednesday that he will travel to China next week to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The visit, scheduled for Jan. 13 to 17, comes as Canada tries to reduce reliance on the United States amid tariff threats. Carney said the plan is aimed at building “stronger and more resilient” partnerships for Canada’s economy.

House passes bill extending ACA subsidies in rebuke to GOP leaders

2026-01-07

The U.S. House passed legislation Thursday to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies that expired late last year, with 17 Republican lawmakers joining every Democrat to support the measure. The vote was 230-196, sending the bill to the Senate, where pressure is building for a bipartisan compromise.

House passes bipartisan spending bills to fund agencies through September

2026-01-07

The U.S. House passed a bipartisan package of three spending bills on Thursday that would fund parts of the federal government through September, as lawmakers work to avoid another shutdown near the end of the month. The legislation passed on a 397-28 vote and would require Senate approval before President Donald Trump could sign it.

North Carolina town votes to return Noquisiyi Mound to Cherokee tribe

2026-01-07

A city council in Franklin, North Carolina, voted unanimously Monday to return the Noquisiyi Mound to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The mound, a Cherokee spiritual site described as the largest unexcavated mound in the Southeast, has been managed through a nonprofit since 2019.

Senate advances war powers resolution to limit Trump’s Venezuela actions

2026-01-07

The U.S. Senate advanced a resolution Thursday that would limit President Donald Trump’s ability to conduct further attacks against Venezuela, setting up a vote next week on final passage. Democrats and five Republicans backed the measure on a 52-47 vote, a step that sounded disapproval of what lawmakers described as expanding ambitions in the Western Hemisphere.

Trump says federal government will buy $200B in mortgage bonds

2026-01-07

President Donald Trump said Thursday he is directing the federal government to buy $200 billion in mortgage bonds, a move he said would lower mortgage rates. The announcement came as he seeks to address voter concerns about home affordability ahead of the November midterm elections.

AP photo of Caracas woman fleeing US airstrikes goes viral worldwide

2026-01-07

At 2:05 a.m. on Jan. 7, as American airstrikes shook eastern Caracas, Associated Press photographer Matías Delacroix ran toward the explosions with his camera. Mariana Camargo, 21, ran the other way. Their crossing paths produced one of the first images of the U.S. military operation in Venezuela: Camargo in a white shirt and jeans, sprinting through the street, fear and urgency on her face, friends running behind her. The photograph appeared on the front pages and websites of major media outlets worldwide.

Trump's Greenland push echoes decades of US acquisition attempts

2026-01-07

President Donald Trump's renewed effort to acquire Greenland from Denmark fits into a little-known pattern in U.S. history dating back more than 150 years. From informal discussions after the Civil War to a formal $100 million gold offer in the aftermath of World War II, American administrations have repeatedly viewed the world's largest island as a strategic prize — and Denmark has consistently declined.

US seizes two more Venezuelan oil tankers as Trump moves to control global sales

2026-01-07

The Trump administration on Wednesday seized two more sanctioned oil tankers carrying Venezuelan petroleum and announced plans to selectively lift sanctions to oversee the global sale of Venezuela's oil — moves that administration officials said would give the United States control over proceeds from the world's largest proven crude reserves. The tankers, the Bella 1 seized in the North Atlantic and the M Sophia captured in the Caribbean Sea, join at least two others taken by U.S. forces last month.

Georgia Senate Republicans push to eliminate state income tax by 2032

2026-01-07

Georgia Senate Republican leaders on Wednesday backed a proposal to eliminate the state's personal income tax by 2032, joining a wave of GOP-led states pursuing full income tax abolition despite unresolved questions about how to replace the lost revenue. The tax is projected to generate about $16.5 billion this year — 44% of Georgia's general revenue — and getting to zero would require phasing out that entire stream over six years.

Trump redistricting push spreads to one-third of states, giving GOP a three-seat edge

2026-01-07

Republican and Democratic officials in roughly one-third of U.S. states have considered revising their congressional districts since President Donald Trump began pressing for mid-decade remapping to help House Republicans maintain their slim majority ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, according to an Associated Press review. Six states have already adopted new maps through legislative action, court order, or commission vote. More are expected to weigh redistricting as legislative sessions open this year.

Trump immigration policies, lower fertility to slow US population growth, CBO says

2026-01-07

The U.S. population will grow by only 15 million people over the next 30 years — a smaller gain than previously projected — because of President Donald Trump's immigration restrictions and an expected long-term decline in the fertility rate, the Congressional Budget Office said Wednesday. The nonpartisan agency projected the nation's population will rise from 349 million in 2026 to 364 million by 2056, a 2.2% smaller increase than it had forecast in 2025. Without immigration, the U.S. population would begin to shrink by 2030, when deaths would start to exceed births.

DeSantis calls April special session to redraw Florida's congressional districts

2026-01-07

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Wednesday he plans to call a special legislative session in April for the Republican-dominated Legislature to redraw the state's congressional districts, joining a multi-state redistricting push backed by President Donald Trump that could affect control of the U.S. House in the 2026 midterms. DeSantis, speaking at a news conference in Steinhatchee, Florida, said he wanted to wait for an expected U.S. Supreme Court ruling on a key provision of the Voting Rights Act before proceeding with new maps.

Connecticut considers extending ACA open enrollment amid federal subsidy uncertainty

2026-01-07

Connecticut officials said they are weighing an extension of the Affordable Care Act open-enrollment deadline for 2026 plans as Congress considers whether to revive expired federal health-care premium subsidies. Interim Insurance Commissioner Josh Hershman, Gov. Ned Lamont and Access Health CT CEO James Michel said the state could extend the deadline if federal action comes too late for shoppers to complete enrollment by Jan. 31.

Gabby Giffords returns to House floor for 15th anniversary of shooting

2026-01-07

Former U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords returned to the House floor Thursday, marking the 15th anniversary of the assassination attempt that left her severely disabled. She stood with her husband, Sen. Mark Kelly, as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries praised her congressional service and gun-control advocacy.

Judge blocks Trump administration DEI purge in Head Start grant apps

2026-01-07

A federal judge temporarily blocked the Trump administration from purging diversity-related terms from Head Start grant applications, ordering Health and Human Services to stop the word changes and to halt further layoffs in the Office of Head Start. The order was issued by U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez in Seattle and was published Monday.

Lebanon’s recovery hinges on security and political reforms, economy minister says

2026-01-07

Lebanon’s economy minister said the country’s financial recovery depends not only on economic changes but also on security and political reforms, including steps to remove weapons from non-state groups and expand state control. Amer Bisat made the remarks after a cabinet session in which the Lebanese military reported progress on a plan to disarm Hezbollah and deploy more forces in southern Lebanon.

Senate agrees missing Jan. 6 plaque will be displayed in Senate wing

2026-01-07

The U.S. Senate has agreed to display a plaque honoring police who defended the Capitol during the Jan. 6, 2021, attack after the plaque was found missing from the Capitol, according to an Associated Press report. The Senate’s action on Thursday rebuffed House Speaker Mike Johnson, who has said the memorial does not comply with the law.

Steny Hoyer to retire at end of term after longest House Democrat stint

2026-01-07

Rep. Steny Hoyer of Maryland, the longest-serving Democrat in Congress, said Thursday that he will retire at the end of his term. Speaking on the House floor, Hoyer said he is “deeply concerned” the chamber is not living up to the Founders’ goals, and lawmakers applauded as he concluded a remarks lasting about 10 minutes.

LaMalfa death triggers California special election as House GOP majority narrows

2026-01-07

The death of California Republican Rep. Doug LaMalfa has created a House vacancy and handed Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom control over when the seat will be filled, with state law giving him up to several months to call a special election. LaMalfa's death on Monday shrinks the Republican majority to 218 seats against Democrats' 213, leaving Speaker Mike Johnson with less room for defections as he works to advance President Donald Trump's agenda ahead of the 2026 midterms.

Volcano guides protest new safety rules at Mount Etna in Sicily

2026-01-07

Mount Etna in Sicily is erupting again, and guides who take tourists to see the volcano say new restrictions imposed by local authorities have gone too far. In Catania, authorities have suspended or limited excursions to lava flows after a round of eruptions in recent weeks, prompting guides to stage a strike and protest.

Trump administration issues dietary guidelines urging whole foods, less sugar

2026-01-07

The Trump administration released updated federal dietary guidelines Wednesday, urging Americans to eat more whole foods and protein, sharply limit added sugars and highly processed foods, and reduce alcohol consumption. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins issued the 2025-2030 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans at a White House briefing, drawing mixed reactions from nutrition and medical experts.

Trump child care funding freeze rattles providers and families in five states

2026-01-07

The Trump administration has frozen federal child care subsidies for five states — California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota and New York — citing unspecified concerns about possible fraud in a $12 billion program that supports 1.4 million children from low-income households, the Associated Press reported Wednesday. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the freeze Tuesday, requiring states to submit extensive documentation before receiving funds.

Delcy Rodríguez’s early gamble with Trump administration later propelled her rise

2026-01-07

Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela’s interim president, has said the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro is a “complete violation of international law and Venezuelan law.” The remark came after a Saturday capture that prompted President Donald Trump to praise Rodríguez while also warning that the ruling party must be kept in check and that the United States should gain “total access” to Venezuela’s oil reserves.

Trump administration launches major immigration operation in Minnesota

2026-01-07

Homeland Security on Tuesday said it launched what it described as the largest immigration enforcement operation ever carried out by the department, with about 2,000 federal officers and agents expected to arrive in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. The operation is tied in part to allegations of fraud involving Somali residents, and it has triggered protests and warnings of heightened political and community tensions in Minnesota.

Trump administration plans to withdraw from 66 international organizations

2026-01-07

President Donald Trump signed an executive order suspending U.S. support for 66 international organizations, agencies and commissions, according to a White House release. The move, announced Wednesday, includes departures from U.N.-related bodies such as the U.N. population agency and the U.N. treaty framework underpinning climate negotiations.

Trump administration withholds safety-net funds from 5 Democratic-led states

2026-01-07

The Trump administration said it is withholding social safety net funding for programs that support needy families with children in five Democratic-led states over fraud concerns. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said it identified concerns that benefits intended for American citizens and lawful residents may have been improperly provided to people not eligible under federal law.

Trump administration expands visa bond list to 38 countries, mostly in Africa

2026-01-07

The State Department on Tuesday added 25 more countries to its visa bond list, bringing the total to 38 nations whose passport holders must post financial guarantees of up to $15,000 to apply for entry to the United States, according to a notice posted on the agency's travel.state.gov website. The bond requirement for the newly added countries takes effect Jan. 21. Most of the 38 countries on the list are in Africa, with others in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Asia.

Ramaswamy picks McColley, Acton picks Pepper in Ohio governor race

2026-01-07

Republican entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy selected Ohio Senate President Rob McColley as his running mate Wednesday, while Democratic former state health director Amy Acton chose former state party chair David Pepper, as both tickets in Ohio's open governor's race filled the experience gap that had defined them. The announcements came on the same day, with Ramaswamy staging an introduction event in Cleveland and Acton and Pepper making their first joint public appearance at an affordability roundtable in Columbus. Republican Gov. Mike DeWine cannot seek reelection because of term limits.

Walz says he plans to keep working as he exits Minnesota governor race

2026-01-07

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said Tuesday that he does not know what the future holds after abandoning his bid for a third term as governor. Speaking at a press conference in Minneapolis, Walz said he plans to keep working on efforts against federal moves he described as targeting Minnesota and said he also expects to return to teaching geography.

Spanberger still digesting significance of being Virginia's first female governor

2026-01-07

RICHMOND, Va. — Less than two weeks before her Jan. 17 inauguration, Virginia Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger said Tuesday she is still coming to terms with what it means to become the first woman elected to lead the state in its nearly 250-year history. The Democrat and former congresswoman, who defeated Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears by 15 points in November, said the full weight of the milestone is only now becoming clear as she hears from constituents moved by the moment.

Spanberger says she’s still digesting Virginia’s first female governor role

2026-01-07

Democrat Abigail Spanberger said on Tuesday she is still digesting what it means to become Virginia’s first woman governor, with her inauguration set for Jan. 17 outside the Virginia Capitol. Spanberger, the former congresswoman who defeated Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears by 15 points in November, discussed the significance of the moment as she prepares to take office less than two weeks after being elected.

Trump calls for ban on large investors buying homes, citing affordability concerns

2026-01-07

President Donald Trump called on Congress Wednesday to ban large institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes, saying the move would make homeownership more accessible for younger families. Trump framed the proposal as part of a broader affordability push ahead of November midterm elections, promising to outline more detailed housing plans at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in two weeks.

Trump seeks $6.2M in legal fees from Fani Willis office over dismissed Georgia case

2026-01-07

President Donald Trump filed a motion Wednesday seeking $6,261,613.08 in attorney fees and costs from the Fulton County District Attorney's office, invoking a Georgia law that entitles defendants to recoup legal expenses when a prosecutor is disqualified for misconduct and the case is subsequently dismissed. The filing comes two months after the election interference case against Trump and 18 co-defendants was dismissed, following the court-ordered removal of District Attorney Fani Willis.

Trump signs order withdrawing US from 66 international organizations

2026-01-07

President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order suspending U.S. participation in 66 international organizations, agencies, and commissions — including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the U.N. Population Fund — following an administration-wide review of U.S. involvement in global bodies.

Venezuela's vast oil reserves draw US interest, but experts warn of major hurdles

2026-01-07

Following President Donald Trump's use of military force to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, the administration moved to access Venezuela's oil reserves — announcing the country would provide 30 to 50 million barrels of crude to the United States and selectively removing sanctions to enable Venezuelan oil sales worldwide. Venezuela holds an estimated 303 billion barrels of crude oil, about 17% of the world's supply, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. But analysts and industry experts say the country's decimated infrastructure, severe brain drain, and uncertain political future pose enormous obstacles to any rapid expansion of production.

Walz says future uncertain after abandoning Minnesota reelection bid

2026-01-07

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said Tuesday he does not know what his future holds after dropping his bid for a third term the day before, musing about a return to geography teaching while pledging to spend his remaining year in office resisting the Trump administration's moves against the state.

US faith leaders tend to Venezuelan diaspora roiled by Maduro's capture

2026-01-07

Faith leaders across South Florida and Philadelphia ministered to Venezuelan diaspora communities on Sunday as congregations grappled with conflicting emotions a day after the U.S. military capture of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. While many in the diaspora took to the streets waving flags in celebration, others face deep anxiety about their immigration status following the Trump administration's cancellation of two federal programs that together had allowed more than 700,000 Venezuelans to live and work legally in the United States.

Warner Bros. Discovery rejects Paramount bid again, backs Netflix deal

2026-01-07

Warner Bros. Discovery's board rejected Paramount's $77.9 billion hostile takeover bid for the second time Wednesday, urging shareholders to support a rival $72 billion offer from Netflix for the company's studio and streaming operations. The board said Paramount's offer was "not in the best interests of the company or its shareholders," citing excessive debt financing and inadequate shareholder protections.

ICE officer shoots and kills Minneapolis woman during immigration enforcement

2026-01-07

An Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer shot and killed a Minneapolis woman Wednesday morning during a federal immigration enforcement operation in the Twin Cities, the Associated Press reported. Renee Nicole Macklin Good, 37, was shot in the head in a snowy residential neighborhood south of downtown Minneapolis after 9:30 a.m. The shooting was recorded on video by bystanders, and it drew immediate conflicting accounts from federal and local officials.

NYC mayor stands behind tenant official facing backlash over old social media posts

2026-01-07

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said Wednesday he stands behind his newly appointed director of tenant protections, Cea Weaver, after critics circulated years-old social media posts in which she called homeownership "a weapon of white supremacy" and advocated treating private property as a "collective good." The backlash drew condemnations from officials in the U.S. Department of Justice, the editorial board of The Washington Post, and former Mayor Eric Adams, according to the Associated Press.

Nevada seeks SNAP waiver to ban sugary drinks and candy for food aid recipients

2026-01-07

Nevada officials said Tuesday they plan to ask the federal government to prohibit food stamp recipients from spending benefits on sugary drinks, energy drinks, and certain candies — part of a growing wave of state restrictions on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The Division of Social Services confirmed at a meeting of the state's Interim Committee on Health and Human Services that it is preparing two waiver requests: one to restrict purchases of sugar-laden items, and a second to allow recipients to buy hot prepared foods such as rotisserie chicken.

Minneapolis ICE shooting is at least the fifth death in US immigration crackdown

2026-01-07

An immigration officer shot and killed Renee Nicole Macklin Good, 37, in Minneapolis on Wednesday in what the Department of Homeland Security described as a self-defense shooting — at least the fifth death linked to the Trump administration's immigration enforcement operations since last year, the Associated Press reported. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said video of the incident showed it was reckless and unnecessary.

Offshore wind developers and states sue over Trump's 90-day East Coast lease freeze

2026-01-07

Norwegian energy company Equinor and Danish company Orsted filed civil suits late Tuesday in federal court challenging the Trump administration's Dec. 22 order suspending leases on five East Coast offshore wind projects for at least 90 days. Connecticut and Rhode Island filed a separate request Monday for a preliminary injunction. Dominion Energy Virginia, first to sue, called the order 'arbitrary and capricious' and unconstitutional.

UC grad workers seek $750,000 legal fund for international employees amid visa uncertainty

2026-01-07

The union representing 48,000 teaching assistants, postdoctoral researchers, and graduate student researchers at University of California campuses is asking the university to establish a $750,000 legal fund to help international employees navigate visa and immigration complications — a demand reflecting growing anxiety among the roughly 40 percent of UAW Local 4811's membership who come from outside the United States. The fund request is part of contract negotiations with the university ahead of the current agreement's Jan. 31 expiration date. Union negotiators are also asking UC to continue paying researchers temporarily stranded abroad by visa problems and to reimburse members for visa-related fees.

Education Dept. grants Iowa first-in-nation block grant waiver for school funds

2026-01-07

Education Secretary Linda McMahon formally approved Iowa's plan Wednesday to consolidate federal education money from four programs into a single fund with fewer federal spending restrictions, making Iowa the first state to receive such a waiver under the Trump administration's drive to reduce federal oversight of public schools. Indiana and Kansas have also applied for similar exemptions, and leaders of other states have expressed interest. The Iowa waiver applies to about $9.5 million in federal funding currently directed to the state's education agency for teacher training, English-learner programs, after-school programs, and academic enrichment. The arrangement runs through September 2028. It does not cover the larger sums flowing to Iowa's more than 300 public school districts.

Detroit records 165 homicides in 2025, lowest tally since the early 1960s

2026-01-07

Detroit ended 2025 with 165 criminal homicides, its lowest count since at least the early to mid-1960s and 38 fewer than the 203 recorded in 2024, Police Chief Todd Bettison announced Wednesday. The figure extends a steep four-year decline from 308 homicides in 2021 and mirrors a broad national retreat from the violent crime surge that accompanied the COVID-19 pandemic.

Justice Dept. sues Connecticut, Arizona in 23-state voter data campaign

2026-01-07

The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division sued Connecticut and Arizona this week for refusing to provide detailed voter information, bringing to 23 the number of states the department has targeted in a broad effort to obtain voter registration data from states that have declined to comply. The department has also filed suit against the District of Columbia.

California loses $160M in federal funds over delay in revoking immigrant trucking licenses

2026-01-07

Federal transportation officials announced Wednesday that California will forfeit $160 million in highway funding after the state delayed the revocation of 17,000 commercial driver's licenses that federal auditors found were issued unlawfully to immigrants. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the state had promised to complete the revocations by Jan. 5 but instead postponed action until March after immigrant advocacy groups filed a lawsuit.

Hawaii to revive beach safety task force after 13-year gap as ocean drownings mount

2026-01-07

Hawaii's state Department of Land and Natural Resources plans to revive the Beach and Water Safety Task Force, a body charged with placing warning signs at dangerous beaches that has not convened since 2012, according to reporting by Honolulu Civil Beat distributed through the Associated Press. The announcement follows a decade in which about 800 people drowned in the waters off Hawaii's roughly 1,000-mile coastline.

Trump signs order pulling US from 66 international bodies, including UN climate treaty

2026-01-07

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday suspending U.S. support for 66 international organizations, agencies, and commissions — including the United Nations population agency and the foundational UN climate treaty — according to a U.S. official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss a presidential decision that had not yet been publicly announced.

Entertainment leaders debate AI and the creator economy at CES 2026

2026-01-07

LAS VEGAS — Entertainment industry leaders gathered at CES 2026 this week to debate artificial intelligence's expanding role in filmmaking, advertising and the creator economy, with more than 25 panels devoted to the intersection of technology and storytelling. Actor and filmmaker Joseph Gordon-Levitt used the Las Vegas stage Wednesday to warn against what he called the passive theft of copyrighted creative works by AI companies, while studio executives and AI tool developers argued the technology can broaden access to storytelling rather than diminish it.

Venezuela's opposition sidelined as Maduro's party holds power after U.S. seizure

2026-01-07

Venezuela's opposition leaders find themselves largely in exile or prison days after the U.S. military operation that seized President Nicolás Maduro, with Vice President Delcy Rodríguez governing in his stead after the Trump administration declined to back the country's recognized opposition leadership. Maduro, removed from his home on a military base in Caracas on Saturday and transferred to New York on federal drug trafficking charges, has been succeeded not by opposition figures but by members of his own administration.

Cars become AI companions at CES 2026, raising data privacy questions

2026-01-07

Automakers and technology companies showcased AI-powered vehicles at CES in Las Vegas on Tuesday that can recognize individual occupants, track emotions and adapt in real time to drivers and passengers. The demonstrations intensified questions about how much personal data smart cars may collect, retain and use — and who sets the rules for what companies can do with it.

What to know about the fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis

2026-01-07

A woman was fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis, setting off clashes between federal and state officials over the investigation and whether the shooting was justified. The incident occurred after federal authorities had dispatched additional officers and agents to Minnesota as part of an immigration crackdown, the Associated Press reported.

Austin Peay reinstates professor, pays $500,000 over Charlie Kirk post

2026-01-07

Austin Peay State University in Tennessee reinstated a professor who was fired for a social media post after the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The university is also paying Darren Michael $500,000 as part of a settlement, according to the agreement and university statements.

Colorado AG accuses Trump of “revenge campaign” over funding cuts

2026-01-07

Colorado’s attorney general, Phil Weiser, sued the Trump administration, accusing it of a “revenge campaign” after federal actions that the state says penalized Colorado for refusing to free convicted elections clerk Tina Peters. The suit, amended Thursday, links other federal decisions affecting Colorado to Peters’ incarceration. President Donald Trump has sought Peters’ release and has also pushed for changes to Colorado’s mail-in voting system.

Connecticut comptroller says Partnership Plan still fiscally sound

2026-01-07

Connecticut Comptroller Sean Scanlon said the state’s Partnership Plan for many municipal and other public-sector workers remains fiscally sound despite reporting nearly $23 million more in claims than premiums in the 2024-25 fiscal year. The new numbers, released by Scanlon’s office, drew criticism from Republican lawmakers who said the plan’s performance raised questions about the future of state-sponsored coverage.

Craigslist child-actor prank ad in Minnesota not proof of daycare fraud

2026-01-07

A Craigslist ad shared online as evidence of fraud involving Minnesota day care centers run by Somali residents was a prank, according to an Associated Press fact check. The ad, which has since been removed, said a Minneapolis center in the Ventura Village neighborhood was hiring 20 child actors for three days to pose as attendees while it was vetted by the state. The AP reported that the ad was bait for an online prank show rather than proof of wrongdoing.

Denmark and Greenland envoys press U.S. officials over Trump Greenland push

2026-01-07

Denmark’s ambassador and Greenland’s chief representative met with White House National Security Council officials in Washington on Thursday as Denmark and Greenland sought to persuade U.S. lawmakers and Trump administration officials to step back from President Donald Trump’s call for a “takeover” of Greenland.

EEUU se retirará de decenas de organizaciones ONU y reduce cooperación global

2026-01-07

El presidente estadounidense Donald Trump firmó una orden ejecutiva que suspende el apoyo de Estados Unidos a 66 organizaciones, agencias y comisiones internacionales, dijo el miércoles el Departamento de Estado, en una medida que incluye la agencia de población de la ONU y el tratado de la ONU sobre negociaciones climáticas. La decisión marca un nuevo paso de Estados Unidos para alejarse de la cooperación global, en un contexto de tensiones militares y amenazas que han afectado a aliados y adversarios.

Fact check: Minneapolis shooting claims and fabricated images online are false

2026-01-07

Misrepresented and fabricated images spread online after a fatal Minneapolis shooting in which an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer killed Renee Good, Associated Press reported. The images circulated with false claims about the officer’s identity, whether he had a Nazi tattoo, and whether other people shown in photos or videos were involved.

Georgia foster care agency faces $85 million deficit despite budget surplus

2026-01-07

The Georgia Division of Family and Children Services said it is facing a projected $85 million budget shortfall, prompting service cuts and a near-halt on new foster care placements by private providers. The agency’s commissioner, Candice Broce, discussed the situation during a Dec. 18, 2025 joint legislative hearing.

Groups say records show U.S. plans to reimburse “Alligator Alcatraz”

2026-01-07

Federal and state officials withheld evidence, environmental groups say, in a fight over a Florida immigration detention center in the Everglades known as “Alligator Alcatraz.” The groups, Friends of the Everglades and the Center for Biological Diversity, said newly obtained emails and documents show officials had discussed and approved federal reimbursement before a lower-court judge ordered the facility to wind down.

Hawaii County council debates extending $33M homelessness fund

2026-01-07

Hawaii County Council members questioned the effectiveness of a $33 million effort to address homelessness as they considered additional funding, according to testimony at a recent council meeting. Members voted 5-4 to advance a request for another $6 million for outreach and other homeless programs, despite concerns that the county’s investment has not reduced homelessness in areas such as Hilo and Pāhoa. Council member Heather Kimball backed the funding but said she wants an audit of spending and results.

Hochul and Mamdani unveil free child care plan for NYC 2-year-olds

2026-01-07

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani unveiled a plan that would give New York City parents free child care for their 2-year-olds, beginning in high-need areas. The proposal was announced Thursday at an event in Brooklyn, a week after Mamdani was sworn in.

Lula vetoes bill that would cut Bolsonaro’s prison term on Jan. 8

2026-01-07

Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva vetoed a bill Thursday that would have reduced the prison sentence of former President Jair Bolsonaro for his failed 2023 coup attempt. Lula made the decision during a ceremony at the presidential palace in Brasilia, marking the third anniversary of riots led by Bolsonaro supporters that ransacked government buildings.

Mexico reports homicide drop, but analysts question completeness of data

2026-01-07

Mexico’s government said homicides fell sharply in 2025, presenting the figures as evidence its security strategy is working. During President Claudia Sheinbaum’s daily news conference, officials said the rate was 17.5 murders per 100,000 people last year, the lowest since 2016.

Michigan’s EV registration fees jump under road funding deal

2026-01-07

Michigan’s annual registration fees for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are set to rise to the highest level in the nation in 2026, driven by a road-funding package passed last fall. The increase will raise light-duty EV registration fees from $160 to $267 and plug-in hybrid fees from $60 to $113, according to a Bridge Michigan report distributed by the Associated Press. Critics say the change unfairly burdens EV drivers, while supporters say it charges EV drivers for their use of roads.

Minneapolis officials urge calm after fatal ICE shooting of Renee Good

2026-01-07

Hundreds of people protested in Minneapolis after the fatal shooting of Renee Good on Wednesday by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer, officials and federal agencies said. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and other local leaders urged calm while calling for a federal investigation and rejecting claims that Good used her vehicle as a weapon.

Minneapolis shooting renews scrutiny of policies on lethal force in moving vehicles

2026-01-07

A federal immigration officer fatally shot a woman in Minneapolis after she was seen using her vehicle during an incident on Wednesday, reigniting scrutiny of when police may use lethal force against drivers in motion. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the officer followed training and acted in self defense and to protect fellow officers.

Minnesota becomes target as Trump’s immigration crackdown draws protests

2026-01-07

Federal immigration enforcement officers sent to Minneapolis and St. Paul have opened fire during a protest, killing Renee Good in a case that Associated Press described as part of President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement campaign targeting Democratic-led states. The killing and the broader operation have raised comparisons to the 2020 death of George Floyd, and Gov. Tim Walz urged Trump to “leave our state alone.”

Nevada Gov. Lombardo leads 2026 ballot push on transgender athletes

2026-01-07

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo is leading a petition effort to amend the Nevada Constitution in 2026 to bar transgender students from girls’ and women’s sports, even though the state already has bans in place at the state and national level. Lombardo announced Wednesday that he is leading a ballot initiative, filed by a political action committee, with the petition process requiring signatures across Nevada’s four congressional districts.

Newsom proposes shifting California K-12 education oversight to board

2026-01-07

California Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed paring back the responsibilities of the state’s elected schools superintendent and shifting more authority to the State Board of Education as part of a plan to streamline K-12 governance. Newsom said the change would address long-recommended reforms and improve “accountability, clarity and coherence” in how schools are served.

North Carolina risks losing $50M over audit issues with immigrant CDL licenses

2026-01-07

North Carolina could lose nearly $50 million in federal funding if it does not revoke commercial driver’s licenses issued to immigrants who are not qualified to hold them, the U.S. Transportation Department said Thursday. The department said an audit found problems with more than half of the 50 commercial driver’s licenses it reviewed in the state, and that records show 924 such licenses remain unexpired.

Security forces clash with Iran protesters at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar

2026-01-07

Protesters angry over Iran’s ailing economy staged a sit-in at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar on Tuesday, witnesses said, as security forces fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators and nearby shops shut down. The violence has killed at least 36 people and authorities have detained more than 2,000 others, activists abroad said. The demonstrations that began Dec. 28 have widened as the rial hit a record low and the central bank cut subsidized dollar exchange rates.

Texas A&M policy could affect about 200 arts and sciences courses

2026-01-07

Texas A&M University administrators told faculty this week that roughly 200 courses in the College of Arts and Sciences could be affected by a new system policy restricting classroom discussions of race, gender, and topics tied to sexual orientation and gender identity. The changes were described in emails obtained by The Texas Tribune and, in some cases, have already led to courses being canceled, renumbered, or having parts of their syllabi revised.

Trump begins U.S. exit from UN climate convention, experts warn

2026-01-07

President Donald Trump on Wednesday began the process to withdraw the United States from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, part of the UN’s climate-fighting system, according to experts and treaty specialists. They said the move will leave the U.S. isolated and could damage both American interests and global efforts as the world approaches internationally agreed temperature thresholds.

Trump says defense firms should pause buybacks; proposes $1.5T 2027 budget

2026-01-07

President Donald Trump criticized U.S. defense contractors for paying out large dividends and stock buybacks while also taking too long to deliver and maintain military equipment, and he said he would not “permit” the payouts until those problems are “rectified.” He also proposed a $1.5 trillion U.S. defense budget for 2027, up from $901 billion for 2026.

UC Berkeley enrolls 29% more new international students despite visa worries

2026-01-07

UC Berkeley enrolled 29% more new international students this school year than the prior year, a reversal of a nationwide decline tied to immigration enforcement concerns, according to University of California data released Thursday. The university said it saw no major impact from federal immigration crackdowns that have deterred some foreign students from studying in the United States.

UN chief says U.S. has legal duty to keep paying into agency budgets

2026-01-07

The United Nations’ top official said Thursday that the United States has a “legal obligation” to keep paying its dues that fund UN agencies, days after the White House announced it is withdrawing support from more than 30 UN-related initiatives. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also said the UN entities targeted by the U.S. decision will continue their work despite the announcement.

US expands visa bonds to citizens of 38 countries, up to $15,000

2026-01-07

The U.S. State Department said it is adding 25 countries to a visa “bond” list, raising the number of countries whose citizens must post bonds to 38. The bonds can range from $5,000 to $15,000, and the latest additions will take effect Jan. 21, according to a notice posted on the travel.state.gov website.

Vance blames “left-wing network” after ICE officer kills Minneapolis woman

2026-01-07

Vice President JD Vance said Thursday that a federal immigration officer’s fatal shooting of Minneapolis resident Renee Good was “a tragedy of her own making,” as protests spread to other cities. He made the comments in the White House briefing room and on social media, during a continuing investigation into the Wednesday incident.

Vermont officials reaffirm childhood vaccine schedule amid CDC changes

2026-01-07

Vermont health officials said Tuesday they will continue to follow the state’s existing childhood immunization schedule after federal guidance was scaled back on childhood vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention moved six immunizations out of the “recommended” category, and Vermont officials and health experts said insurers would still cover the vaccines.

Woman fatally shot by ICE agent in Minneapolis; family and officials mourn

2026-01-07

Renee Good, a U.S. citizen and mother of three, was fatally shot behind the wheel of her vehicle by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis, according to the Associated Press. Family members and neighbors are mourning her, while state and local officials and protesters have rejected the Trump administration’s characterization of the encounter. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said video recordings show the self-defense argument is “garbage.”

Philadelphia-area Trump store closing after six years, owner says business has slowed

2026-01-07

A Trump-themed merchandise shop in suburban Philadelphia that became a gathering place for supporters of President Donald Trump announced it will close at the end of January, six years after opening, the owner said Tuesday. Mike Domanico, who founded the Trump Store in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, in 2020, said he is shifting focus to another business and acknowledged that sales have declined since Trump's reelection.

Tekashi 6ix9ine reports to MDC Brooklyn, joining Maduro and Mangione

2026-01-07

Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine reported to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn on Tuesday to begin a three-month federal sentence, arriving by luxury van alongside internet personality Adin Ross and a camera crew that streamed his self-surrender live. The 29-year-old artist, whose legal name is Daniel Hernandez, joins Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and accused United Healthcare shooter Luigi Mangione at a federal jail that some judges have described as "hell on earth."

Venezuela's new interim president once gambled on Trump with a $500,000 donation

2026-01-07

Delcy Rodríguez, sworn in Monday as Venezuela's interim president after the capture of Nicolás Maduro, built part of her political prominence through a 2017 effort to court the incoming Trump administration — including directing Citgo, a subsidiary of Venezuela's state oil company, to donate $500,000 to Trump's inauguration, according to an Associated Press investigation drawing on interviews with 10 former U.S. and Venezuelan officials. The charm offensive failed to shift U.S. policy toward Venezuela, but it raised Rodríguez's profile in American business and political circles and helped pave the way for her current role as Washington's primary interlocutor in Caracas.

Nevada writes off $106 million-plus in “bad debt” since 2023

2026-01-07

Nevada has written off more than $106 million in “bad debt” since the start of 2023, according to an analysis by The Nevada Independent. The figures include debts from more than 50,000 accounts that were approved for write-off by Nevada’s Board of Examiners, as well as other write-offs approved later.

San Jose concedes 2030 carbon neutrality goal is off track as emissions inch up

2026-01-07

San Jose's City Council formally acknowledged Dec. 2 that the city is not on track to reach carbon neutrality by 2030, after the city's most recent greenhouse gas inventory found emissions edged up between 2021 and 2023, reversing earlier progress. The council approved the admission as part of an administrative update to Climate Smart San Jose, the city's emissions reduction plan.

George Conway files to run for Manhattan-area House seat as Democrat

2026-01-07

George Conway, a former conservative lawyer turned Trump critic, filed paperwork to run as a Democrat in New York’s 12th Congressional District, according to an Associated Press report published Dec. 23. Conway has not made an official announcement, and his campaign did not respond to a request for comment. The Manhattan-based district is set to be left open by retiring Democratic Rep. Jerry Nadler.

Second Georgia Democratic lawmaker charged over pandemic unemployment fraud

2026-01-06

Federal prosecutors on Monday charged former Georgia state House member Karen Bennett with one count of making false statements to collect $13,940 in federal pandemic unemployment benefits, making her the second Georgia Democratic legislator accused of defrauding a COVID-era aid program. Bennett, of Stone Mountain, waived indictment, pleaded not guilty and was released on $10,000 bail after a federal court appearance. She had resigned from the House the previous Thursday.

Rep. Doug LaMalfa of California dies at 65, narrowing House GOP majority

2026-01-06

Rep. Doug LaMalfa, a California Republican who cast reliable votes for President Donald Trump's agenda through seven House terms, died Tuesday at age 65 after suffering a medical emergency the previous evening, the Butte County sheriff's office said. He was taken to a local hospital where he died during a surgical procedure. Officials have not disclosed the cause of death.

Trump's Venezuela claims raise questions about planning, former diplomats say

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump has made broad but vague assertions that the United States will "run" Venezuela following the ouster of Nicolás Maduro, while providing almost no details about how that governance would work, raising concerns among former diplomats and some lawmakers about the administration's level of planning. Seemingly contradictory public statements from Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have left unclear whether the U.S. now controls Venezuela's levers of power or intends to allow Maduro's subordinates to remain in leadership positions. Current U.S. officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they were not aware of any preparations for a military occupation or interim civilian governing authority.

Wyoming Supreme Court strikes down abortion bans, including first US pill ban

2026-01-06

Wyoming's Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that two state laws barring abortion violate the state constitution, striking down what would have been the country's only explicit ban on abortion pills and preserving legal access to abortion in one of the nation's most conservative states. The 4-1 decision, issued by justices all appointed by Republican governors, upheld every prior lower court ruling in the case.

Rubio credits media for holding Venezuela strike story, despite Pentagon press restrictions

2026-01-06

Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday thanked news organizations for withholding advance knowledge of last weekend's U.S. military strike in Venezuela, saying their restraint protected American lives. The acknowledgment marked a rare moment of praise for the press from an administration that has otherwise been at war with mainstream news outlets, particularly over access to the Pentagon.

Trump addresses House GOP with meandering speech as majority shrinks to new low

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump delivered a nearly 90-minute address to House Republicans at the Kennedy Center on Tuesday, spending more time relitigating past grievances than laying out an election-year strategy, even as the party's razor-thin House majority narrowed further with the death of a California lawmaker and the resignation of a Georgia member. The session, billed as a daylong policy forum to align the White House and House Republicans ahead of the November midterms, produced little in the way of concrete guidance on the urgent decisions the caucus faces in the coming weeks.

De La Cruz proposes construction worker visa as ICE arrests slow South Texas building

2026-01-06

U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz, an Edinburg Republican, announced Monday she would seek a new federal visa category for construction workers after South Texas builders told her that immigration enforcement arrests had halted job sites and threatened the regional industry. De La Cruz said she plans to meet with the U.S. Department of Labor to explore a program modeled on the H-2A agricultural visa. "We'd like to see where the construction industry would fit," she said.

Georgia sets March 10 special election for Greene's former seat

2026-01-06

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp set March 10 as the date for a special election in the state's 14th Congressional District, one day after Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned from Congress following five years in office. The all-party contest will fill a seat that the Cook Political Report rates as the most Republican-leaning district in Georgia.

Vermont governor names two federal prosecutors to state Supreme Court

2026-01-06

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott on Monday appointed two former federal prosecutors to the state's Supreme Court, naming Christina Nolan and Michael Drescher to fill two recent vacancies on the five-member court. Both appointments require confirmation by the Vermont Senate.

Danish leader warns U.S. takeover of Greenland could end NATO

2026-01-06

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned Monday that a U.S. takeover of Greenland would amount to the end of NATO, citing renewed calls by President Donald Trump for the strategic Arctic island to come under U.S. control. Frederiksen made the comments after a U.S. weekend operation in Venezuela that involved the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, which heightened concerns in Denmark and Greenland about possible U.S. action.

DeSantis plans April special session to redraw Florida congressional districts

2026-01-06

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said he plans to call a special session in April to redraw the state’s congressional districts, adding to a mid-decade redistricting push by several Republican-led states. DeSantis said he wants to wait for a U.S. Supreme Court ruling expected to affect the scope of a Voting Rights Act provision before the Legislature redraws the maps.

Exasesora de Trump dice que Rusia propuso canje entre Venezuela y Ucrania

2026-01-06

Fiona Hill, exasesora de la Casa Blanca sobre Rusia y Europa durante el gobierno de Donald Trump, dijo el lunes que funcionarios rusos plantearon repetidamente un posible “intercambio entre Venezuela y Ucrania”. Hill sostuvo que Moscú habría estado dispuesto a retirar su apoyo a Nicolás Maduro en Venezuela a cambio de “libertad de acción” en Ucrania.

Hegseth censures Sen. Mark Kelly after video urged troops to defy illegal orders

2026-01-06

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Monday that he has censured Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona over the former Navy pilot’s participation in a video that called on troops to resist unlawful orders. Hegseth said the censure is a formal letter in a process that could lead to a demotion from Kelly’s retired rank and a reduction in his retirement pay.

Iran army chief threatens preemptive response to ‘rhetoric’ as protests persist

2026-01-06

Iran’s army chief threatened Wednesday a preemptive response to “rhetoric” targeting the Islamic Republic, as protests in Iran entered another day. The warning from Maj. Gen. Amir Hatami came amid international attention to U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments about what happens if Tehran “violently kills peaceful protesters.”

Japanese watchdog halts Hamaoka reactor safety screening over falsified seismic data

2026-01-06

Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority said it is scrapping safety screening for two reactors at the Hamaoka nuclear power plant in central Japan after the operator was found to have fabricated earthquake-risk data. The regulator said it confirmed the falsification and that the utility acknowledged the fabrication in mid-December.

Montana Supreme Court rejects initiative to limit corporate political donations

2026-01-06

The Montana Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that a proposed constitutional ballot initiative to limit corporate and other “artificial” entities’ political spending is unconstitutional. The court upheld a finding by Attorney General Austin Knudsen that the initiative would violate a state constitutional rule requiring voters to weigh each amendment separately.

Oil stocks rise after Trump says U.S. would take over Venezuela oil

2026-01-06

U.S. energy shares rose sharply Monday after President Donald Trump said the United States would take control of Venezuela’s oil industry. The move, the U.S. said it plans following its capture of President Nicolás Maduro, raised expectations that American companies could help revive Venezuela’s oil sector and reshape energy markets.

Security, minerals and trade: why Trump says the U.S. needs Greenland

2026-01-06

U.S. President Donald Trump has said the United States needs Greenland, citing the island’s strategic value for Arctic security, trade and minerals. Greenland is a self-governing territory of Denmark, and its government has opposed U.S. overtures, saying Greenlanders should decide their own future.

South Korea’s Lee asks Xi to mediate on North Korea nuclear crisis

2026-01-06

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said he asked China’s Xi Jinping to serve as a mediator on North Korea’s nuclear crisis during Lee’s Beijing summit with Xi. Lee also said Xi replied that patience was needed as channels with North Korea remain blocked.

Texas lawmaker explores visa for construction workers amid ICE raids

2026-01-06

U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz, a Texas Republican, said Monday she is looking at ways for migrant construction workers to work legally, including by urging the U.S. Department of Labor to help design a special visa program. De La Cruz’s proposal follows concern from South Texas builders that Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests at job sites have disrupted projects.

Trump’s Greenland push revives a long U.S. interest

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump’s renewed interest in acquiring Greenland from Denmark fits into a long, little-known pattern in U.S. history, The Associated Press reported. From quiet discussions after the Civil War to a formal offer after World War II, American leaders have repeatedly viewed Greenland as a strategic prize.

Venezuela lawmakers swear in Delcy Rodriguez as interim president

2026-01-06

Venezuelan lawmakers on Monday swore in Delcy Rodríguez as interim president after the weekend arrest of President Nicolás Maduro, as the government moved to project that it is being run independently. Rodríguez, a former vice president, was sworn in in Caracas to lead until a National Assembly term scheduled to run through 2031. The swearing-in followed Maduro’s first court appearance in the United States over federal drug-trafficking charges used to justify the arrest.

White House finalizes plan to curb NEPA environmental reviews for energy

2026-01-06

The Trump administration has finalized a plan to roll back regulations that implement the National Environmental Policy Act, or NEPA, which requires federal agencies to consider environmental impacts before approving energy and infrastructure projects. The White House Council on Environmental Quality on Wednesday rescinded regulations tied to NEPA environmental review, according to the administration.

Zelenskyy replaces Ukraine security chief, names Freeland economic adviser

2026-01-06

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday replaced the head of the Security Service of Ukraine and named Chrystia Freeland as an economic development adviser, continuing a reshuffle before talks in Paris. The changes come as Ukraine tries to maintain momentum for a U.S.-brokered peace push and as Russia’s attacks continue across a front line stretching roughly 1,000 kilometers.

Finland adds AI media literacy to classroom lessons to counter disinformation

2026-01-06

Finland is teaching media literacy in preschool and adding artificial intelligence literacy as teachers respond to disinformation risks, especially near Russia. The push includes exercises in classrooms in and around Helsinki, along with national efforts such as “Newspaper Week” and media-literacy materials for teenagers.

Trump renews calls on Greenland as Rubio warns Cuba and threatens Colombia

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump, speaking the day after U.S. forces seized Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela, renewed calls for the United States to take control of Greenland, threatened military action against Colombia, and said Cuba’s communist government is “in many problems.” Trump’s comments and those from Secretary of State Marco Rubio signaled that Washington is preparing a broader role in the Western Hemisphere, even as Denmark objected and Cuba said its officials died in the Venezuela operation.

Trump administration withholds safety net funds from five states over fraud claims

2026-01-06

The Trump administration said Tuesday it is withholding federal funding for child care and family assistance programs from five Democratic-led states over concerns that benefits may have been provided to people not eligible under federal law, though the administration has not specified the evidence underlying its fraud allegations. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which oversees the targeted programs, said California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, and New York must submit extra documentation before accessing the funds.

Trump administration adds 7 countries to visa bond list, up to $15,000

2026-01-06

The Trump administration has added seven countries to a U.S. visa program that requires some applicants to post bonds of up to $15,000 before receiving visas, the State Department said. The designations, posted on the travel.state.gov website, took effect Jan. 1 and expanded the list to 13 countries. The changes were announced days after the State Department began tightening other entry requirements, including in-person interviews and disclosures tied to applicants’ social media histories and travel and living arrangements.

Trump administration freezes child care subsidies in fraud review

2026-01-06

The Trump administration has frozen federal child care funding for Illinois and other states while it conducts a fraud-related review, raising concerns among providers and parents that payments could be delayed or disrupted. In Illinois, Breyanna Rodriguez said the loss of assistance would force her to drop out of work and community college classes as she prepares for nursing school. The review follows a crackdown on the $12 billion Child Care and Development Fund, which helps subsidize care for 1.4 million children from low-income households.

Trump administration releases 2025-2030 dietary guidelines emphasizing whole foods

2026-01-06

The Trump administration on Wednesday released the 2025-2030 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, urging Americans to eat more whole foods and proteins while limiting highly processed foods and added sugars. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the guidance will shape federal nutrition programs and policies.

State Dept. adds 7 nations to visa bond list; 11 of 13 targeted countries are in Africa

2026-01-06

The Trump administration has expanded its visa bond requirement to seven additional countries, bringing to 13 the number of nations whose passport holders must post bonds of up to $15,000 to apply for U.S. visas, the Associated Press reported Monday. The State Department quietly added Bhutan, Botswana, the Central African Republic, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Namibia and Turkmenistan to the list; the designations took effect Jan. 1, according to a notice on the travel.state.gov website. Five of the seven newly added countries are in Africa — 11 of the 13 countries now on the list are African nations.

Former Arizona lawmaker sentenced to probation for forged petition signatures

2026-01-06

PHOENIX — A former Republican Arizona state lawmaker who publicly questioned the integrity of the state's elections was sentenced Tuesday to probation and a five-year ban on seeking public office after pleading guilty to using nominating petitions with forged signatures to qualify for a 2024 primary election. Austin Smith, 30, who had represented a Phoenix-area state House district for one term, was also fined $5,500.

In Ohio governor race, Vivek Ramaswamy and Amy Acton pick running mates

2026-01-06

Ohio’s gubernatorial contest is taking shape as Republican entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and Democratic former health chief Amy Acton announced their running mates on Wednesday. Ramaswamy named Ohio Senate President Rob McColley, and Acton chose former state Democratic Chair David Pepper, with Gov. Mike DeWine barred from seeking re-election by term limits.

Michigan teachers weave Jan. 6 lessons into AP U.S. history classes

2026-01-06

Michigan history teachers say they are incorporating the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol attack and its aftermath into advanced placement U.S. history classes, using it as a way to connect textbook topics to current events and to teach students how to evaluate evidence. The approach is being used by East Kentwood High School teacher Matt Vreisman and Whitehall High School teacher Brian Milliron, among others, and it is aimed at helping students understand why democracies rely on peaceful transfers of power.

Missing Jan. 6 police plaque leaves Capitol without required memorial

2026-01-06

Nearly five years after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, the official plaque meant to honor officers who defended Congress is not on display and its whereabouts are not publicly known, according to an Associated Press report. The plaque was approved by Congress in 2022 but the Architect of the Capitol has said it cannot comment amid federal litigation. House Speaker Mike Johnson’s office said the statute authorizing the plaque is “not implementable” and that proposed alternatives also do not comply, the report said.

Newsom enters final year as California governor, faces housing and health tests

2026-01-06

Gavin Newsom is entering his final year as California governor, with the Legislature set to hear his State of the State address and with his budget proposal due this week. Interest groups and political allies are watching whether he can make progress on homelessness, housing affordability and health coverage as the state faces another budget deficit.

Tim Walz drops bid for third term as Minnesota governor

2026-01-06

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, the Democrats’ 2024 vice presidential pick, said Monday he is ending his bid for a third term as governor, less than four months after announcing his reelection campaign. Walz said negative attention and Republican attacks have made 2025 “an extraordinarily difficult year,” leaving him unable to serve full time as governor while also running to keep his job.

Walz drops bid for third term as Minnesota governor; Klobuchar weighs entry

2026-01-06

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Democrats' 2024 vice-presidential nominee, announced Monday that he will not seek a third term as governor, citing Republican attacks and the political fallout from a federal investigation into child care fraud in the state's Somali community. Walz made the announcement at the state capitol in St. Paul less than four months after launching his reelection campaign, saying the dual demands of governing and campaigning had become untenable. Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar is considering entering the race, according to a person close to her who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Polls show Americans split on Venezuela operation, wary of deeper U.S. role

2026-01-06

Americans are roughly evenly split on whether U.S. military forces should have been sent to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, but nearly half oppose the United States taking control of Venezuela and choosing a new government there, according to an Associated Press analysis of recent polls. The surveys, conducted before and immediately after the military operation, found that most Americans had entered 2026 wanting Washington focused on domestic concerns — health care and the cost of living — and that almost no one had named Venezuela as a government priority.

Craigslist child-actor ad was a prank, not proof of Minnesota day care fraud

2026-01-06

A Craigslist ad offering $1,500 a day for children to pose as day care attendees in Minneapolis spread across multiple social media platforms this week as purported evidence of fraud at Minnesota day care centers. The cohost of an online prank show told the Associated Press his team placed the ad as bait — not as documentation of any actual scheme.

US nearly triples visa bond list to 38 countries; bonds reach up to $15,000

2026-01-06

The State Department on Tuesday added 25 countries to its visa bond requirement list, nearly tripling the total to 38 nations in less than a week, according to a notice published on travel.state.gov. The new requirement for the 25 additions takes effect January 21. Citizens of all 38 countries must now post bonds of $5,000 to $15,000 before applying for U.S. visas, a cost that U.S. officials acknowledged makes the process unaffordable for many.

Connecticut comptroller urges realistic Medicaid budgets as federal cuts loom

2026-01-06

Connecticut State Comptroller Sean Scanlon on Monday warned the state legislature it must adopt more realistic Medicaid budgets, saying surging program costs and looming federal funding cuts threaten health coverage for roughly 1 million state residents. Scanlon said 60% of the state's current overspending problem is concentrated in Medicaid, and called on state officials to stop authorizing amounts that ignore clear demand growth trends.

Shapiro reports $30M for Pennsylvania reelection bid, breaking his own state record

2026-01-06

Pennsylvania Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro began 2026 with $30 million in his reelection campaign account, a new state record for cash on hand heading into an election year, his campaign said Tuesday. The sum more than doubles the previous Pennsylvania record of $13.4 million — also set by Shapiro at the start of 2022, the year he won the governorship.

Texas teachers union sues over alleged crackdown on posts about Charlie Kirk

2026-01-06

The Texas American Federation of Teachers filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday against the Texas Education Agency and its commissioner, alleging the state launched an unconstitutional campaign of retaliation against public school employees who posted social media comments about conservative activist Charlie Kirk following his killing in September. The suit accuses Commissioner Mike Morath of directing school districts to document educators' online posts that the agency described as "vile content" — actions the union argues violated teachers' First Amendment rights.

George Conway enters NYC House race, testing anti-Trump profile in Democratic primary

2026-01-06

George Conway, 62, a prominent critic of President Donald Trump and co-founder of the anti-Trump Lincoln Project, announced Tuesday that he is running for the U.S. House seat being vacated by retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler in New York City. Conway, a former Republican attorney who recently relocated from Bethesda, Maryland, back to Manhattan, entered a crowded Democratic primary in a solidly Democratic district covering Midtown Manhattan and the Upper East and Upper West sides.

West Virginia's abandoned-building demolition fund is spent, with no replacement in sight

2026-01-06

West Virginia has exhausted the $30 million in federal pandemic relief funds it used to reimburse local governments for demolishing abandoned buildings, leaving municipalities without state support to address a problem a statewide survey estimated would cost approximately $150 million to resolve. The state's Demolition Landfill Assistance Program, established in 2021 and funded a year later with federal COVID-19 recovery money, helped communities tear down about 1,800 structures in two years. About 240 demolitions remain ongoing, but state officials say the last of the program's funds have been dispersed and the legislature has proposed no replacement.

Trump tells Republicans to be 'flexible' on Hyde Amendment for health care deal

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump on Tuesday urged House Republicans to show flexibility on the Hyde Amendment — the 50-year budget restriction barring federal money from paying for abortion services — telling lawmakers at a caucus retreat in Washington they needed to bend on the policy to reach a deal on health care subsidies. The expanded Affordable Care Act premium subsidies that lapsed Dec. 31, 2025, have left millions of policyholders facing steep premium increases, and some Democrats have made easing the Hyde restrictions a condition for any new agreement.

Cuba mourns 32 officers killed in Venezuela strike as OAS holds emergency session

2026-01-06

Cuba's government on Tuesday published the names, ranks and ages of 32 military officers killed during the U.S. operation that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, announcing two days of national mourning. The deceased — drawn from Cuba's Revolutionary Armed Forces and Ministry of the Interior — ranged in age from 26 to 60 and included colonels, lieutenants, majors, captains and reserve soldiers, according to Cuban state media, which published individual headshots showing the officers in olive-green military uniforms.

Trump voters back Venezuela raid but voice concern over entanglement risk

2026-01-06

Trump supporters interviewed across five states by The Associated Press said they generally approved of the U.S. military's seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, but their response was more measured than President Donald Trump's claim that voters were uniformly "thrilled." Trump said those who "voted for me are thrilled. They said, 'This is what we voted for.'" The voters AP journalists interviewed in the days after the raid — conducted without congressional authorization — described a more conditional reaction.

Three retirement planning rule changes take effect in 2026 under SECURE 2.0 and new tax law

2026-01-06

Three significant rule changes affecting U.S. retirement savers took effect in 2026, altering how high-income 401(k) participants must structure catch-up contributions, how much state and local tax can be deducted from federal returns, and what new deduction is available to Americans 65 and older, according to an analysis by Christine Benz, director of personal finance and retirement planning at Morningstar, distributed through the Associated Press. The changes flow from two pieces of legislation: the SECURE 2.0 Act, which continues to phase in retirement account provisions, and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which modified tax rules beginning in 2025.

Central African Republic runner-up rejects election results, alleges fraud

2026-01-06

The runner-up in Central African Republic’s presidential election rejected the provisional results and alleged widespread fraud, according to statements made Wednesday in the capital, Bangui. Anicet Georges Dologuélé said election figures were manipulated by the National Elections Authority, while President Faustin Archange Touadera’s camp denied the allegations.

Delcy Rodríguez takes interim role in Venezuela after Maduro’s capture

2026-01-06

Delcy Rodríguez became Venezuela’s interim president after Nicolás Maduro was captured in a U.S. nighttime military operation, according to the Associated Press. Venezuela’s high court ordered her to assume the interim role Saturday, and the leader was backed by the military, AP reported. Rodríguez, who has served as Maduro’s vice president, offered “to collaborate” with the Trump administration in remarks that signaled a possible shift in relations between the two governments.

Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda reach asylum-deal deals with U.S.

2026-01-06

The United States reached a deal with Dominica to begin sending some asylum-seekers to the Caribbean island, a day after the Trump administration expanded visa restrictions to include Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda. Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said the arrangement follows partial U.S. visa limits and that the discussions included “careful deliberations” to avoid admitting violent people or those who would “compromise the security of Dominica.”

Early polls show Americans favor domestic focus over Venezuela role

2026-01-06

Americans’ early reactions to a U.S. military operation in Venezuela suggest broad skepticism about further U.S. involvement, according to polling analyzed by The Associated Press. The AP-NORC survey found about one-quarter of U.S. adults prioritized foreign policy topics for 2026, while the Washington Post and SSRS poll found roughly 4 in 10 approved of using the U.S. military to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, and 45% opposed the U.S. taking control of Venezuela.

Education Department OKs Iowa block grant for federal education money

2026-01-06

The Trump administration has approved Iowa’s plan to gain more flexibility in how it spends certain federal education funds, a step expected to encourage other states to seek similar waivers. Education Secretary Linda McMahon signed off on the proposal Wednesday at an event in Iowa, her office said, as conservative states press for more control over education spending.

EEUU casi triplica países con fianzas de hasta US$15.000 para visas

2026-01-06

Estados Unidos amplió de nuevo la lista de países cuyos ciudadanos deberán pagar fianzas de hasta 15.000 dólares para solicitar visas estadounidenses. Menos de una semana después de añadir siete países, el Departamento de Estado incluyó 25 más, y el requisito comenzará a regir el 21 de enero. La medida implica que 38 países —principalmente en África, pero también en América Latina y Asia— están ahora sujetos a este requisito, que no garantiza la aprobación de la visa.

EPA to propose drinking-water perchlorate limit after court order

2026-01-06

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will propose a drinking-water limit for perchlorate, a chemical used in rocket fuel and explosives that can harm thyroid function, especially in infants. The agency said Monday it is moving only because a federal court ordered it, and it does not expect the rule’s overall public-health benefits to justify its costs. The EPA will seek public comment on how strict the limit should be and require water utilities to test for perchlorate.

Fact check: Misrepresented videos and fabricated Maduro images circulate online

2026-01-06

An Associated Press fact check found that misrepresented videos and fabricated images circulated widely online soon after the U.S. removed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from public view. The review also said President Donald Trump shared some of the misleading posts, including videos that were edited or taken out of context.

Florida awaits federal sign-off for a third immigration detention center

2026-01-06

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said the state is awaiting federal approval to open a third immigration detention center in the Panhandle. He said DeSantis also was looking into a potential fourth facility in South Florida, adding to the state’s existing detention sites nicknamed “Alligator Alcatraz” in the Everglades and “Deportation Depot” in northeast Florida.

Gojek co-founder Nadiem Makarim goes on trial over school laptop deal

2026-01-06

An Indonesian court on Monday opened the trial of Nadiem Anwar Makarim, a co-founder of the ride-hailing and payments company Gojek, who is accused of corruption in a government project to buy Google Chromebook laptops for schools. Makarim, 41, was a former education, culture, research and technology minister when he was arrested Sept. 7.

Graduate student workers ask UC to create legal aid fund for immigrants

2026-01-06

Graduate student workers represented by United Auto Workers Local 4811 are asking the University of California to create a legal aid fund to help them navigate immigration and visa issues, as uncertainty rises for international students in the United States. The union’s request is part of contract negotiations that began months ago and will cover teaching assistants, postdocs and researchers at UC campuses, including UC Berkeley.

Hawaii revives beach-warning task force to curb ocean drownings

2026-01-06

Hawaii plans to revive a Beach and Water Safety Task Force that has not met since 2012, state officials said, as the state faces criticism for a long gap in placing warning signs at dangerous beaches. The move comes after pressure from the Hawaiian Lifeguard Association and reporting by Honolulu Civil Beat.

HHS can resume limited Medicaid data sharing with ICE after ruling

2026-01-06

A federal judge cleared the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to resume sharing limited personal data of certain Medicaid enrollees with immigration enforcement officers starting Monday. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria in San Francisco is a setback for 22 states that had sued the administration over privacy concerns.

Hilton apologizes after Minnesota Hampton Inn canceled ICE agents’ rooms

2026-01-06

A Minnesota hotel under the Hilton brand apologized after canceling reservations for federal immigration agents this month, saying the refusal violated its own policies. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security posted screenshots of an email it said came from a Hilton address canceling the bookings at the Hampton Inn Lakeville property about 20 miles south of Minneapolis.

ICE officer kills Minneapolis driver amid Trump immigration crackdown

2026-01-06

An Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer shot and killed a Minneapolis driver on Wednesday during the Trump administration’s latest immigration crackdown, AP reported. Federal officials said the shooting was an act of self-defense, while the city’s mayor called it reckless and unnecessary.

Justice Department sues Connecticut and Arizona over requests for voter data

2026-01-06

The U.S. Justice Department has filed lawsuits against Connecticut and Arizona seeking detailed voter information, saying the states have failed to comply with its requests. The suits, announced this week by the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, come as officials in both states defend their decisions to refuse the data.

Major protests in Iran over the past 50 years, from 1979 to 2025-26

2026-01-06

Iran has been shaken by waves of protests over the past five decades, driven by demands for political freedoms, anger over crackdowns, and economic pressures. Beginning with the 1979 demonstrations that preceded the Islamic Revolution, demonstrations have periodically resurfaced—at times spreading nationwide and prompting security force responses.

Michigan nursing homes face abuse and neglect, probe finds systemic gaps

2026-01-06

Bridge Michigan and the Associated Press reported Jan. 5, 2026, that abuse, neglect and related violations are common in Michigan nursing homes and that the state’s oversight system has failed to prevent or catch many of them. The reporting centered on the death of 68-year-old Lorena Brown at SKLD Muskegon after roommates and staffers said she pleaded for help as she turned blue in September 2022. The inspection documents cited in the investigation say no help came.

Nevada seeks SNAP waivers to limit sugary drinks, candy in 2028

2026-01-06

Nevada officials said they are preparing requests for federal waivers that would restrict what SNAP benefit recipients can buy, including sugary drinks and certain candies. During a legislative meeting Tuesday, state officials with the Division of Social Services said they are planning a waiver that would take effect in 2028. They also said Nevada is asking the U.S. Department of Agriculture for permission for additional hot foods such as rotisserie chicken.

NYC mayor defends housing official after years-old social media backlash

2026-01-06

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani on Wednesday defended his newly appointed housing official, Cea Weaver, amid backlash over years-old social media posts. The posts included calls to treat private property as a “collective good” and a 2017 message linking homeownership to “white supremacy.”

Petro calls for dialogue with Trump as Colombia holds protests over Venezuela

2026-01-06

Colombia President Gustavo Petro held a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday after escalating threats between the two governments over Venezuela, and Petro told supporters that he asked to reopen direct communication. Thousands of Colombians gathered in public squares across the country to “defend national sovereignty” amid growing alarm about Trump’s military rhetoric, according to the Associated Press.

Panel urges more beans, fewer red meats in draft 2025-2030 US diet rules

2026-01-06

A panel of nutrition experts advising the U.S. government released recommendations for the next Dietary Guidelines for Americans on Tuesday, calling for Americans to eat more vegetables, fruits and legumes while cutting back on red and processed meats. The guidance, aimed at people age 2 and older, also urges limits on added sugars, sodium and saturated fat as the federal government prepares the next set of food-program rules.

Rubio plans talks with Denmark next week on U.S. Greenland interest

2026-01-06

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he plans to meet with Danish officials next week to discuss U.S. interest in Greenland, after the Trump administration renewed its intention to take over the Arctic island. Rubio said the president has been looking at acquiring Greenland since his first term and that diplomacy is the administration’s “first option,” though he said presidents retain a military option for national security threats.

Sheinbaum dismisses U.S. military action in Mexico as cartel threat continues

2026-01-06

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum played down the risk of U.S. military action against drug cartels in Mexico, after President Donald Trump threatened such steps in the wake of a U.S. operation in Venezuela. Sheinbaum said Monday that there was coordination with the United States government and that she did not see “risks” of intervention. Analysts told AP that while unilateral action is considered unlikely, the threats could persist as a negotiation tactic.

Spending bill keeps “Kennedy Center” name despite Trump rebranding

2026-01-06

A bipartisan spending package released by House Speaker Mike Johnson provides $32 million for operating expenses at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts through Sept. 30, 2027, while the bill continues to refer to the venue as the “Kennedy Center.” The package’s language comes amid a federal lawsuit challenging the center’s December board vote to add President Donald Trump’s name to the building’s exterior and website.

Trump freeze sparks lawsuits over offshore wind leases on East Coast

2026-01-06

Offshore wind developers and state officials sued after the Trump administration suspended leases for five offshore wind projects on the East Coast for at least 90 days, setting up a legal fight over national security claims. Equinor and Ørsted filed civil suits in the District of Columbia late Tuesday, and Connecticut and Rhode Island sought a preliminary injunction on Monday for a separate project. The administration said the pause is intended to protect national security and military readiness, but it did not disclose specifics.

Trump hails Maduro capture as right-wing allies cheer, left warns of U.S. bullying

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump publicly celebrated the U.S. capture of Venezuelan strongman Nicolás Maduro on Jan. 5, hours before Maduro was taken through the offices of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in New York, a move that left Latin America divided. Across the region, right-wing leaders portrayed the raid as a victory, while left-wing presidents called it dangerous or unlawful, and warned it could destabilize the hemisphere.

Trump officials direct Head Start providers to avoid certain grant terms

2026-01-06

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration has directed Head Start providers to avoid dozens of terms in federal grant applications, including “race,” “belonging” and “pregnant people,” potentially reshaping how the early education program describes the demographics it serves. The guidance is at the center of a lawsuit filed by parent groups and Head Start associations, which say the Department of Health and Human Services is illegally dismantling Head Start.

Trump’s vaccination “72 jabs” claim was not required, AP fact check says

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump, in social media posts about changes to U.S. childhood vaccination recommendations, shared a graphic and statement implying children would no longer need 72 “jabs,” an Associated Press fact check said. The AP said “72 injections were never ‘required,’” and that the government’s prior recommended schedule covered routine protection against 18 diseases spread across ages.

Trump's vague Venezuela “run” claims prompt questions about planning

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump has said the United States will “run” Venezuela after Nicolás Maduro is ousted, but has offered few details about how a transition would work, according to questions raised by former officials and sanctions advisers. In remarks over the weekend, Trump’s statements and Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s comments appeared to diverge on whether the U.S. would take direct control or rely on existing tools such as sanctions. The uncertainty, some former diplomats said, has added to concern about what planning exists for the country’s next phase.

Trump says he wants to ban large investors from buying houses

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he wants Congress to codify a ban on large institutional investors buying houses, arguing it would make it easier for younger families to buy first homes. Trump made the case as voters weigh housing affordability ahead of the November midterm elections.

Trump voters react to U.S. seizure of Maduro in Venezuela

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump’s supporters interviewed by The Associated Press reacted with a mix of praise and caution to the U.S. seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro from a military base, according to interviews published Monday. Some said they were thrilled by the operation’s speed, while others said they were wary of what the move could cost the United States.

U.S. adds 7 countries to visa bond list, with deposits up to $15,000

2026-01-06

El Departamento de Estado de Estados Unidos añadió siete países a una lista de naciones cuyos ciudadanos deben pagar fianzas de hasta 15.000 dólares para solicitar visas. Las designaciones entraron en vigor el 1 de enero, según un aviso publicado en travel.state.gov.

US cuts childhood vaccine recommendations to 11 diseases for all children

2026-01-06

The U.S. on Monday cut the number of vaccines it recommends for every child, effective immediately, moving protections for several diseases to only high-risk groups or to “shared decision-making” with doctors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will now recommend vaccination against 11 diseases for all children.

US faith leaders minister to an anxious Venezuelan diaspora

2026-01-06

Venezuelan Christians in the United States have been holding prayer services and urging calm as uncertainty grows after the U.S. capture of deposed leader Nicolás Maduro, Associated Press reported. In South Florida, Miami Archbishop Thomas Wenski said many people are “happy” to see Maduro out but still anxious about what comes next.

US suspends aid to Somalia’s federal government over alleged food diversion

2026-01-06

The U.S. State Department said it has suspended all U.S. assistance programs that benefit Somalia’s federal government, alleging Somali officials destroyed a World Food Programme warehouse and seized 76 metric tons of food aid meant for civilians. The department said resuming assistance would depend on the Somali federal government taking accountability and remedial steps.

US to replace 612 aging air-traffic radar systems with RTX, Indra

2026-01-06

The federal government has selected RTX and the Spanish firm Indra to replace 612 aging radar systems used by air traffic controllers across the United States, the Trump administration said Monday. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and the Federal Aviation Administration said the replacements are targeted for completion by the summer of 2028.

Venezuela opposition sidelined as Maduro’s party stays in power

2026-01-06

Venezuela’s opposition has been sidelined after Nicolás Maduro was seized by U.S. forces and put in jail in New York on drug trafficking charges, leaving leaders of his administration in control, according to the Associated Press. The U.S. allowed Maduro’s vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, to assume control, sidelining most opposition figures who are either in exile or imprisoned, the AP reported. Opposition leader María Corina Machado, including in her praise of President Donald Trump, has become less influential at home, AP said.

Violent crime in New Orleans declines for third year as Guard patrols

2026-01-06

Violent crime in New Orleans declined for a third consecutive year in 2025, police officials said Monday as National Guard troops began patrolling the city on President Donald Trump’s orders. The announcement came about a week after armed troops arrived, and local officials have debated whether the deployment is necessary and whether Guard troops can perform policing roles.

Flu season rivals last winter's epidemic as subclade K drives holiday surge

2026-01-06

U.S. flu infections surged over the holiday period, with 45 states reporting high or very high activity during the week of Christmas — up from 30 states the prior week — and federal health officials warning that the season is severe and likely to worsen. New government data released Monday showed that by some measures the current season already rivals last winter's flu epidemic, one of the harshest in recent memory. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated at least 11 million illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths from influenza have occurred so far this season.

Minnesota hotel and Hilton apologize after ICE agents' reservations canceled

2026-01-06

A Hampton Inn franchise in Lakeville, Minn., about 20 miles south of Minneapolis, canceled reservations for federal immigration agents and informed them they would not be permitted to stay at the property, according to screenshots posted on social media by the Department of Homeland Security. Hilton and the property's local operator, Everpeak Hospitality, each issued apologies within hours, saying the cancellation violated their policies.

OECD deal exempts large U.S. multinationals from global minimum tax

2026-01-06

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development announced a revised global tax plan under which nearly 150 countries agreed to stop large multinational companies from shifting profits to low-tax jurisdictions. The amended deal, finalized after negotiations involving President Donald Trump’s administration, excludes large U.S.-based multinationals from paying the 15% global minimum tax. The OECD said the agreement will enhance “tax certainty” and reduce complexity.

Rubio, Hegseth brief lawmakers as questions mount over Venezuela next steps

2026-01-06

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other senior U.S. officials briefed congressional leaders behind closed doors Monday on a military operation in Venezuela, as lawmakers raised questions about what comes next and what role U.S. forces may play. Republicans largely backed President Donald Trump’s decision to forcibly remove Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro, while Democrats left with concerns and calls for clarity. The briefing preceded a Senate vote this week on a war powers resolution that would bar U.S. military action in Venezuela without congressional approval.

Ethics watchdog questions intern hire by chief of staff to Georgia Sen. Mike Collins

2026-01-06

A congressional ethics watchdog said in a report released Monday that there is substantial reason to believe Brandon Phillips, former chief of staff to U.S. Rep. Mike Collins, improperly hired his girlfriend as an office intern. The Office of Congressional Conduct found that the woman was paid $5,044 in November and December 2023 and $5,244.44 in October through December 2024 for work in Collins’ Georgia district office.

Venezuela strike divides Massie and Trump-backed challenger in Kentucky

2026-01-06

President Donald Trump’s military intervention in Venezuela has become a flash point in Kentucky’s Republican primary race between U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie and retired Navy SEAL officer Ed Gallrein. Massie, a long-running Trump antagonist, criticized the strike in social media posts, while Gallrein said Massie’s stance is not what voters expect from a Republican.

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville files to enter Alabama governor race

2026-01-06

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville filed paperwork on Monday to officially enter the 2026 race for Alabama governor, saying he wants to return home and help lead economic and job growth in the state. After signing the filing at the Alabama Republican Party headquarters in Hoover, Alabama, he told reporters business recruitment and other priorities would be central to his campaign. On the Democratic side, former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones is also running, setting up a possible rematch in November.

New Haven police chief abruptly retires amid money theft allegations

2026-01-06

New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson abruptly retired after allegations he stole money from a department account that compensates confidential informants, Mayor Justin Elicker said Monday. The mayor said Jacobson admitted taking the funds for personal use, after deputies confronted him over irregularities earlier that day. Interim Chief David Zannelli was named to lead the department.

Former Georgia Rep. Bennett accused of lying to get unemployment

2026-01-05

A second former Georgia state lawmaker has been accused in federal court of lying to collect pandemic-era unemployment benefits, according to federal prosecutors. Karen Bennett of Stone Mountain was charged Monday with one count of making false statements tied to $13,940.

Trump urges House GOP to use “nuggets” as thin majority faces health votes

2026-01-05

President Donald Trump met with House Republicans at the Kennedy Center to discuss their election-year agenda as Democrats aim to win control of Congress in November. The near-90-minute appearance included warnings about impeachment and a pitch to run on Trump’s first year back in office, but offered few details on a unified House strategy. The meeting took place amid pressure on health care and other issues that Republicans say are splitting their conference.

House spending bill still calls it the Kennedy Center, bypassing Trump rebrand

2026-01-05

A bipartisan House spending package released Monday allocates $32 million for operating expenses at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts through September 2027 — using the venue's original statutory name, not the "Trump Kennedy Center" branding the center's board adopted in December. The appropriation, released by House Speaker Mike Johnson, funds the center through Sept. 30, 2027 with no acknowledgment of the board's December rebranding vote, which added President Donald Trump's name alongside President John F. Kennedy's on the building's exterior and website.

Trump targets Greenland, Cuba and Colombia after Venezuela operation

2026-01-05

One day after U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Caracas, President Donald Trump renewed his call Sunday for American control of Greenland and threatened military action against Colombia, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Cuba's communist government is "in a lot of trouble." Trump made the remarks aboard Air Force One as he flew back to Washington from his Florida home.

Court allows HHS to resume limited Medicaid data sharing with ICE

2026-01-05

A federal judge ruled that the Department of Health and Human Services may resume sharing limited personal data from Medicaid enrollees with federal deportation officials as of Monday, setting strict boundaries on what information can be transferred. U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria in San Francisco ruled last week that after a temporary court order expired Jan. 5, HHS may hand over only "basic biographical, location and contact information" about immigrants residing in the United States illegally to Immigration and Customs Enforcement — but may not transfer detailed medical records or data about U.S. citizens and legal immigrants in the 22 states that brought suit.

Congress-mandated Jan. 6 police plaque sits unhung as fifth anniversary passes

2026-01-05

As the fifth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol arrived, the official plaque Congress ordered installed to honor the law enforcement officers who defended the building that day remained out of public view — its location not publicly known and believed to be in storage — and never formally unveiled by House Speaker Mike Johnson. The Trump administration's Justice Department, meanwhile, is seeking to dismiss a federal lawsuit by two officers demanding the marker be displayed as the 2022 law that created it requires.

Hegseth censures Sen. Kelly over video urging troops to resist unlawful orders

2026-01-05

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Monday that he censured Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, initiating proceedings that could result in a demotion from Kelly's retired rank of Navy captain and a reduction in his retirement pay. The censure, a formal letter that Hegseth described as "a necessary process step," follows Kelly's participation in a November video in which six Democratic lawmakers called on U.S. service members to uphold the Constitution and defy "illegal orders."

Canadian officials to visit Greenland as Trump renews territory remarks

2026-01-05

Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada’s Indigenous governor general, Mary Simon, and Foreign Minister Anita Anand will visit Greenland in early February. The trip is planned as President Donald Trump has renewed calls for the United States to take control of Greenland.

Fifth anniversary of Jan. 6 brings fresh division to the U.S. Capitol

2026-01-05

WASHINGTON (AP) — On the fifth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, political parties continued to disagree on what happened as President Donald Trump addressed House Republicans and Democrats renewed hearings from the 2021 investigation. Outside the Capitol and at the White House, separate commemorations reflected divisions over history, accountability and security.

Fighting in Colombia’s Catatumbo forces 300 to seek refuge in Cúcuta

2026-01-05

More than 300 people fled Colombia’s Catatumbo region to escape fighting by rebel groups and have sought shelter in Cúcuta, a city near the border with Venezuela, the Colombian Human Rights Ombudswoman said. The ombudswoman, Iris Marín, said the displaced people came from Tibu and El Tarra, where fighting between rebel groups broke out in December.

George Conway launches congressional bid in New York for open seat

2026-01-05

George Conway, a prominent critic of President Donald Trump, said Tuesday that he is running for a U.S. House seat in New York City. The announcement comes as Rep. Jerrold Nadler plans to retire, opening a Democratic primary in the Manhattan-based district.

Guyana suspends gold mining licenses of more than 100 Brazilians

2026-01-05

Guyana said it has suspended gold mining licenses for 107 Brazilian permit holders and threatened deportation as part of a crackdown on suspected gold smuggling. The Geology and Mines Commission said it acted after accusing the miners of producing large amounts of raw gold but failing to declare or sell most of it to the government or authorized buyers.

Israel clears hurdle for E1 settlement plan near Jerusalem

2026-01-05

Israel has cleared a final hurdle to begin construction on the E1 settlement project near Jerusalem, a government tender said, setting the stage for work that critics say would cut the West Bank in two. The tender would open the way to start development of the E1 project, an open tract of land east of Jerusalem, and seeks bids for 3,401 housing units, according to the tender.

Rep. Doug LaMalfa of California dies, trimming GOP’s House control

2026-01-05

Republican Rep. Doug LaMalfa of California died on Tuesday at age 65, according to the Butte County sheriff’s office. LaMalfa, a rice farmer who served seven terms in the U.S. House, died during a surgical procedure after a medical emergency Monday night, the sheriff’s office said.

Wyoming Supreme Court keeps abortion legal, strikes down pill ban

2026-01-05

Wyoming’s Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that abortion will remain legal in the state after striking down two abortion laws, including the first explicit ban on abortion pills in the country. The court, in a 4-1 decision, said the laws violated a Wyoming constitutional amendment allowing competent adults to make their own health care decisions.

CDC narrows childhood vaccine schedule; pediatricians warn of health risks

2026-01-05

WASHINGTON — U.S. health officials on Monday narrowed federal childhood vaccine recommendations, reducing the number of diseases for which all children are urged to get vaccinated from 18 to 11, effective immediately. The Department of Health and Human Services said the overhaul came at the direction of President Donald Trump, who in December asked the agency to review vaccine practices among peer nations. The nation's major medical groups said they would not follow the new guidance and warned the rollback could increase preventable illness and death in children.

HHS narrows childhood vaccine schedule to 11 diseases; medical groups warn of preventable deaths

2026-01-05

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on Monday reduced the number of vaccines it recommends for every child, narrowing the universal schedule to 11 diseases — a move that leading medical organizations said would result in more hospitalizations and preventable deaths. The change, effective immediately, removes universal recommendations for vaccines against flu, rotavirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, certain meningitis strains, and RSV. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. called it a step toward rebuilding public trust. Physicians' groups said it would put children's lives at risk.

Trump administration expands visa bond list to 13 countries, most in Africa

2026-01-05

The Trump administration quietly expanded a program requiring visa applicants from certain countries to post cash bonds of up to $15,000 before entering the United States, the State Department announced, adding seven nations to a list that now totals 13 — 11 of them in Africa. The designations took effect January 1 and make U.S. visa access financially out of reach for many would-be visitors from the newly designated nations, according to the Associated Press.

Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda reach deals with US to accept asylum-seekers

2026-01-05

Two small Caribbean island nations, Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda, agreed Monday to accept asylum-seekers from the United States under separate arrangements with the Trump administration. Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit described his country's agreement as "one of the primary areas of collaboration" with Washington, which recently imposed partial U.S. visa restrictions on both island nations. Antigua and Barbuda signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding; local officials said the island would not accept anyone with a criminal record.

Newsom enters final year as California governor with key promises unmet

2026-01-05

Gavin Newsom enters his final year as California governor this week with key campaign promises on housing, homelessness, and health care largely unmet, as he prepares to address the Legislature and present a budget proposal while confronting an estimated $18 billion deficit. Newsom, widely expected to pursue a Democratic presidential primary campaign after his term ends, is scheduled to deliver a State of the State address Thursday.

Court order forces EPA to propose perchlorate limit in drinking water

2026-01-05

The Environmental Protection Agency said Monday it will propose a drinking water limit for perchlorate, a chemical used in rockets, fireworks, and other explosives — but only because a federal appeals court ordered it to act. The agency said it would seek public comment on limits of 20, 40, and 80 parts per billion and require roughly 66,000 water utilities to test for the chemical, while also arguing that the expected cost to utilities would outweigh the public health benefit.

Hawaiian immersion school enrollment surges 68%, but teacher supply lags

2026-01-05

Enrollment in Hawaii's Hawaiian-language immersion schools has grown 68 percent over the past decade, with the number of state-run campuses rising from 14 to 26, according to state education officials. But the pool of qualified teachers is not keeping pace with demand, creating staffing shortfalls that threaten further expansion of the programs, known as Kaiapuni schools. The Hawaii Department of Education has at least three unfilled Kaiapuni positions and 25 unlicensed educators still working toward their credentials, while one advisory group projects the state will need 165 additional Kaiapuni teachers over the next decade.

OECD finalizes amended global minimum tax pact exempting US multinationals

2026-01-05

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development announced Monday that nearly 150 countries have agreed to a revised global minimum corporate tax framework that carves out large U.S.-based multinationals from the 15% floor, closing out negotiations that reshaped a landmark 2021 agreement. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hailed the outcome as a sovereignty win while tax transparency advocates warned it would allow the largest American companies to continue sheltering profits in low-tax jurisdictions.

Florida awaits federal approval for third immigration detention center

2026-01-05

Florida is awaiting approval from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to open a third immigration detention center in the state's Panhandle, Gov. Ron DeSantis said Monday, while the state also explores a potential fourth facility in South Florida. DeSantis made the announcement at a news conference outside the state's second immigration detention center — dubbed "Deportation Depot" — at the former Baker Correctional Institution in northeast Florida.

Mississippi holds $156M unspent as 19,000 families wait for child care vouchers

2026-01-05

Amaya Jones, a full-time Kroger employee and mother of two in Mississippi, planned to return to school this month to study social work. That plan depends on regaining a child care voucher she lost in June — and she is one of more than 19,000 Mississippi families now on a growing waitlist after pandemic-era federal funding that expanded the state's voucher program ran out, according to the Mississippi Department of Human Services.

California refinery closures threaten Nevada fuel supply and prices

2026-01-05

Two major California oil refinery closures are raising alarms about fuel shortages and price spikes in Nevada, which depends on the Golden State for roughly 88% of its gas, diesel and jet fuel, energy industry experts and state officials said. Phillips 66 shuttered its Los Angeles-area refinery in October, and Valero has submitted notice of plans to close a Bay Area facility by April 2026. Combined, the two plants produced 284,000 barrels of oil per day — about 17% of California's total refining capacity.

Fabricated images of Maduro capture spread online; Trump amplifies false videos

2026-01-05

Fabricated and misrepresented images purporting to show Venezuelan celebrations and Nicolás Maduro's arrest spread widely across social media in the days following the U.S. military's capture of the Venezuelan leader, the Associated Press reported Monday. President Donald Trump amplified at least two of the false videos on Truth Social, falsely claiming both showed Venezuelans celebrating Maduro's removal.

FAA picks RTX and Indra to replace 612 outdated radar systems by summer 2028

2026-01-05

The Federal Aviation Administration selected defense contractor RTX and Spanish firm Indra on Monday to replace 612 radar systems that air traffic controllers rely on nationwide, accelerating a multibillion-dollar effort to retire infrastructure that in some locations still depends on floppy discs and spare parts sourced from eBay. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford announced the contracts, setting a target of completing the radar replacement by summer 2028.

Man detained after breaking windows at VP Vance's Cincinnati home, Secret Service says

2026-01-05

A Cincinnati man was detained by U.S. Secret Service agents early Monday after breaking windows at Vice President JD Vance's Ohio home and vandalizing a federal vehicle, authorities said. William D. DeFoor, 26, faces federal charges including damaging government property and assaulting federal officers, according to the U.S. Attorney's office in Ohio's southern district. Vance and his family were not at the residence at the time, having returned to Washington the day before.

Pipeline safety agency issues record $9.6M fine for 2023 Gulf oil spill

2026-01-05

Federal pipeline safety regulators on Monday issued a record $9.6 million fine against Third Coast Midstream, the Houston-based company whose 2023 pipeline failure spilled 1.1 million gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico off Louisiana's coast. The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration said Third Coast's violations were systemic — including inadequate emergency procedures, insufficient risk assessments, and improper maintenance of the 18-inch Main Pass Oil Gathering pipeline — contributing to a leak that operators allowed to continue for nearly 13 hours before shutting down the line.

Michigan nursing homes log nearly 6,000 abuse and neglect cases as reform stalls

2026-01-05

A four-month Bridge Michigan investigation documented at least 5,915 cases of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and care violations at the state's 420 nursing homes and identified nearly three dozen residents who died from suspected neglect or abuse over the past four years, according to a report distributed Monday by the Associated Press. Investigators reviewed more than 45,000 pages of state and federal inspection records, submitted dozens of public records requests, examined more than 30 death certificates, and spoke with nearly 100 family members, current and former staff, administrators, consumer advocates, researchers, and policymakers.

Energy stocks surge after Trump announces plans to control Venezuela's oil industry

2026-01-05

Shares of major U.S. energy companies rose broadly Monday after President Donald Trump announced plans to take control of Venezuela's oil industry, saying American companies would lead a revitalization of the sector following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Oilfield services firms posted the steepest gains, while refiners and major explorers also moved higher at the opening bell.

North Atlantic right whales record 15 calves this winter, but extinction threat persists

2026-01-05

Researchers have identified 15 North Atlantic right whale calves during the current winter birth season off the southeastern United States, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced Monday — a count higher than two of the last three winters, but far short of what scientists say the species needs to halt its slide toward extinction.

Iran's major protests over 50 years: from revolution to rial collapse

2026-01-05

As protests over Iran's currency collapse stretched into their second week in January 2026, unrest in the Islamic Republic entered a familiar pattern: a severe economic shock, mass demonstrations, and a government response that included severing the country's internet and telephone connections to the outside world. The current demonstrations, triggered by the rial's fall to 1.4 million to the dollar following tightening sanctions and a 12-day war with Israel, are at least the seventh major episode of mass unrest to shake Iran over the past 50 years, according to the Associated Press.

Michigan teachers connect Jan. 6 insurrection to history of peaceful power transfers

2026-01-05

Michigan history teachers are marking the approaching fifth anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol insurrection by weaving the event into their advanced placement coursework — anchored to the election of 1800, when John Adams became the first sitting president to transfer power peacefully to a rival-party successor, according to a report by Bridge Michigan distributed by the Associated Press. Teachers at East Kentwood and Whitehall high schools draw a direct line from that founding-era precedent to its 2021 breach, asking students to analyze why peaceful transitions of power matter and what happens to democracies when they break down.

HHS bars 'race,' 'women,' and 'disability' from Head Start grant applications

2026-01-05

The Department of Health and Human Services has directed Head Start providers to avoid nearly 200 terms in federal grant applications — including "race," "Black," "Native American," "disability," "women," and "Tribal" — a move plaintiffs in an ongoing federal lawsuit say directly conflicts with the Head Start Act. A coalition of organizations representing Head Start providers and parents disclosed the directive in December court filings, saying HHS told a Head Start director in Wisconsin to cut those and related terms from her application.

Detroit to launch cash-assistance program for expectant mothers

2026-01-05

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield announced Monday that Michigan State University's Rx Kids program will expand to the city within her first 100 days in office, bringing direct cash payments to expectant mothers in a city where about a third of residents live in poverty. Sheffield, elected in November and installed last week as Detroit's first female mayor, said roughly $9 million has been raised for the Detroit launch, with another $2.5 million still needed.

Connecticut comptroller urges legislature to budget more realistically for Medicaid

2026-01-05

Connecticut Comptroller Sean Scanlon urged state lawmakers on Monday to craft more realistic Medicaid budgets as surging costs and expiring federal aid threaten Connecticut’s finances. He warned that “60%” of the state’s overspending is tied to Medicaid and said officials should review all options to ensure about a million people can keep getting health care.

Curfew imposed in Birgunj after mosque vandalism prompts Hindu-Muslim protests

2026-01-05

A curfew was imposed in Birgunj, a border city in southern Nepal, after protests erupted between Hindu and Muslim groups following vandalism of a mosque over the weekend, officials said Tuesday. Armed soldiers and police were patrolling the streets, and authorities warned that people who violate the curfew could be shot.

Israeli foreign minister visits Somaliland after Israel’s recognition

2026-01-05

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar visited Somaliland on Tuesday and promised Israel would work to expand ties, saying Israel would soon open an embassy there. Saar made the trip after Israel became the first country to recognize Somaliland’s independence from Somalia, a move that has drawn broad international criticism.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro says campaign has $30M for reelection

2026-01-05

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro says his reelection campaign has $30 million on hand, setting a new state record as he seeks a second term this fall, according to his campaign. The campaign said the funding level eclipses the previous record Shapiro reported at the start of 2022.

Rubio says media is thanked for helping avoid jeopardizing Maduro raid

2026-01-05

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Trump administration thanked some news organizations for learning in advance about a Saturday military operation in Venezuela and for not reporting on it before it happened. Rubio made the remarks on ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday, after President Donald Trump announced that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro had been captured. The remarks came as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has pushed restrictive press rules for Pentagon reporters.

Trump tells Republicans to be “flexible” on Hyde Amendment for health care deal

2026-01-05

President Donald Trump urged House Republicans on Tuesday to be “a little flexible” on the Hyde Amendment, pushing for changes to abortion-related funding restrictions as he seeks a health care insurance assistance deal. The comments came during a caucus retreat as negotiations continue on Capitol Hill over expanded Affordable Care Act premium subsidies that expired Dec. 31, 2025.

Venezuelans in South Florida celebrate Maduro ouster in U.S. operation

2026-01-05

Venezuelans in South Florida celebrated the U.S. military operation that removed President Nicolás Maduro from Venezuela, chanting “liberty” and draping Venezuelan flags on Saturday in Doral. The festivities followed a U.S. announcement that the country would be run at least temporarily by the American government.

Nebraska to ban soda, energy drinks from SNAP under first USDA waiver

2026-01-05

Nebraska will become the first state to get a federal waiver allowing it to bar the purchase of soda and energy drinks with SNAP benefits, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Monday. The change, announced by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, is expected to affect about 152,000 people in Nebraska who receive SNAP.

SNAP bans on soda, candy and some foods start Jan. 1 in five states

2026-01-05

Starting Thursday, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah and West Virginia will begin SNAP restrictions that limit what recipients can buy, affecting soda, candy and other items. The changes follow waivers sought by the incoming administration as part of a drive to reduce diet-related chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.

Trump pledges to 'direct' Venezuela after U.S. military operation ousts Maduro

2026-01-04

President Donald Trump pledged Sunday to have the United States "direct" Venezuela and oversee a transition of power following a U.S. military operation the previous day that resulted in the overnight seizure and extradition of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Speaking at a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump described the action as "one of the most impressive, effective and powerful demonstrations of American military might and competence in the history of the United States." Trump offered few details about how the United States would govern Venezuela, saying his administration must remain "very involved" while promising Venezuelan oil revenues would repay U.S. costs. "The money that comes out of the ground is very substantial," he said. "They're going to reimburse us for everything we spend."

Caracas falls quiet as Venezuelans wait to see what comes next after US seizes Maduro

2026-01-04

An anxious quiet settled over Venezuela's capital on Sunday, the day after a U.S. military operation seized President Nicolás Maduro and transferred him to New York for a Monday court appearance. Stores, restaurants and churches across Caracas remained closed. Those who ventured out appeared shell-shocked, staring at phones or into the distance. "People are still shaken," said David Leal, 77, who arrived for work as a parking attendant to find the streets deserted near Venezuela's presidential palace.

Greene's constituents divided on her legacy as she quits Congress

2026-01-04

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned from Congress on Monday, ending halfway through her third term a political career that made her northwestern Georgia district one of the most closely watched in the country — and left her constituents divided over what, if anything, they gained from it. President Donald Trump, once her most prominent ally, called her a traitor after she criticized his foreign policy and his reluctance to release documents connected to Jeffrey Epstein.

Iran protests reach all 31 provinces as rial collapse deepens, internet cut

2026-01-04

Nationwide demonstrations demanding economic relief have spread across all of Iran's 31 provinces, according to data from the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, as the Islamic Republic's government shut down the internet and deployed security forces against protesters. The agency reported Thursday that more than 600 protests have taken place nationwide, with a death toll of at least 2,615 and 18,470 people arrested. Iran's rial has fallen to more than 1.4 million per dollar while an annual inflation rate of about 40 percent erodes living standards, the Associated Press reported.

Rubio tamps down nation-building fears as Trump insists US 'in charge' in Venezuela

2026-01-04

Secretary of State Marco Rubio sought Sunday to reassure critics that the United States would not govern Venezuela day-to-day following the military seizure of former leader Nicolás Maduro, even as President Donald Trump insisted Washington was "in charge" of the oil-rich nation. Rubio said the U.S. would enforce an existing oil quarantine on sanctioned tankers and use that leverage to press policy changes in Caracas. Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One en route from his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, said of Venezuela: "We're going to run it, fix it."

Paris court finds 10 people guilty of cyberbullying Brigitte Macron

2026-01-04

A Paris court found 10 people guilty of cyberbullying France’s first lady, Brigitte Macron, by spreading false online claims about her gender and sexuality. The court said the comments included degrading allegations that she was born a male, and it ordered the defendants to attend cyberbullying awareness training. One defendant was sentenced to six months in prison, while others received suspended sentences and some saw their social media access suspended for six months.

Capitol officers say Jan. 6 struggles persist five years on, deepened by Trump pardons

2026-01-04

Five years after the Jan. 6, 2021 siege of the U.S. Capitol, officers who defended the building say they are still dealing with physical injuries, psychological trauma, and a public narrative that has played down the violence they encountered. For several officers, President Donald Trump's pardons of approximately 1,500 people convicted for their roles in the attack compounded wounds that had not healed. On Jan. 20, 2025 — the day of Trump's second inauguration — former Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell put his phone on silent and stepped away from the news. That evening, calls flooded in from federal prosecutors, FBI agents, and the federal Bureau of Prisons, all notifying him that Trump had just pardoned rioters who had injured him. "They told me that people I testified against were being released from prison," Gonell said. "And to be mindful."

Venezuela intervention tests Trump's 'America First' pledge as GOP shows unease

2026-01-04

President Donald Trump's military operation to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and transport him to New York to face criminal charges drew initial Republican support Sunday, but exposed fractures within the party over whether the intervention abandons the 'America First' philosophy central to Trump's political rise. Trump, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, said his supporters were behind the mission. "They said this is what we voted for," he told reporters.

9th Circuit panel strikes down California open carry ban in populated counties

2026-01-04

A two-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Friday that California's law barring open carry of firearms in counties with populations above 200,000 violates the Second Amendment, a decision that drew swift condemnation from state officials and renewed debate over how courts should apply a 2022 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that expanded gun rights. The panel found the restriction amounts to a ban covering the areas where roughly 95 percent of California's residents live.

Maduro held at MDC Brooklyn, a federal jail with a troubled past

2026-01-04

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro arrived Saturday night at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York — a federal jail that some judges have refused to use due to documented violence, infrastructure failures, and chronic staffing problems, according to the Associated Press. A crowd of Venezuelan expatriates, many draped in their country's flag, gathered outside the facility to celebrate, cheering as the law enforcement motorcade believed to be carrying Maduro and his wife pulled in.

Health care rises as top government priority for Americans in 2026 poll

2026-01-04

Americans named health care or health issues as a top priority for the government in 2026, according to an AP-NORC poll released Dec. 19, with concerns rising sharply compared with last year. The survey also found inflation and cost-of-living pressures remain prominent, while immigration worries shift modestly by party.

Minnesota has deadline to provide child care data in Trump fraud probe

2026-01-04

Minnesota officials said the state has until Jan. 9 to provide documents to the U.S. government as part of a child care fraud review tied to federal funds being frozen by the Trump administration. The state said inspectors recently found several centers accused in viral allegations were “operating as expected.”

Mississippi lawmakers rarely hear public testimony as hearings move fast

2026-01-04

Mississippi residents often lack formal ways to provide public comment or testimony during state legislative committee hearings, where bills can be considered with little discussion. The Associated Press reports that hearings are frequently last-minute and that the House does not livestream or record committee meetings. Advocates and researchers say structured opportunities—such as posted agendas and remote participation—help legislators weigh the impacts of policies on the people affected.

Trump officials consider banning “junk food” from SNAP, lawmakers face barriers

2026-01-04

U.S. officials including Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Brooke Rollins have signaled support for restricting items such as sugary drinks and candy from SNAP, the program that helps low-income families buy food. But previous attempts to narrow SNAP purchases through agency waivers and state rules have run into legal and practical obstacles, setting up a new push with uncertainty about what can change.

Federal judge dismisses Louisville police reform deal after DOJ withdrew

2026-01-04

A federal judge dismissed Louisville’s proposed settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice over police reforms after the Justice Department withdrew its support earlier this year, according to a ruling reported by The Associated Press. The deal, spurred by the 2020 death of Breonna Taylor, would have required changes aimed at curbing alleged racial bias and excessive force.

Zohran Mamdani’s NYC mayoral debut includes subway commute and order revocations

2026-01-04

Zohran Mamdani began his first full day as New York City mayor with a subway commute from Queens to Manhattan, greeting riders and aides as he reviewed briefing materials. Within hours of entering City Hall, his administration also moved to revoke multiple executive orders issued late in former Mayor Eric Adams’ term, setting off backlash from some Jewish groups over policies tied to Israel.

SNAP waivers ban soda, candy in five states starting Jan. 1

2026-01-04

Starting Thursday, people using SNAP benefits in five states will face new restrictions on buying soda, candy and certain other foods as waivers take effect. Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah and West Virginia are the first states to implement the changes aimed at steering shoppers away from foods health officials and policy makers view as unhealthy.

Trump orders divestment of $2.9 million chips deal over China control claim

2026-01-04

President Donald Trump has ordered the unraveling of a $2.9 million computer chip deal after concluding that the current owner, HieFo Corp., could pose U.S. security risks if it retained control of the technology, according to an executive order. The order requires HieFo to divest the technology within 180 days, citing “credible evidence” that the company is controlled by a citizen of the People’s Republic of China, the Associated Press reported.

Mamdani takes oath of office on Quran full of symbolism

2026-01-04

Incoming New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was sworn in at midnight on a centuries-old Quran, marking what officials and a library scholar described as historic firsts for the city. The Democrat, who took office as the first Muslim, first South Asian and first African-born mayor of New York City, used the Quran during a subway ceremony under City Hall. The oath does not require a religious text, officials said, but the choice has sparked criticism from some conservatives.

Trump invites Japan's Takaichi to US as regional tensions with China mount

2026-01-03

President Donald Trump invited Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to visit the United States this spring during a phone call Friday, Japan's foreign ministry said — a step toward deepening the Japan-U.S. alliance as Beijing's recent military exercises near Taiwan have sharpened tensions across the Indo-Pacific. The White House had not confirmed the call as of Friday. Japan's foreign ministry said the two leaders agreed to coordinate so the visit takes place in spring, and Kyodo News reported the trip could coincide with Washington's annual cherry blossom festival.

US seizure of Maduro sparks legal debate as Trump claims control of Venezuela

2026-01-03

The Trump administration seized Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in an overnight military operation Friday, transporting him and his wife aboard a U.S. warship to New York to face narco-terrorism conspiracy charges, the Associated Press reported. A surprise U.S. incursion rocked the Venezuelan capital with explosions before dawn, and the administration declared it would "run" the South American country — raising sharp legal questions about the scope of executive war powers and the absence of congressional authorization for what some scholars said now constitutes an undeclared war.

Khamenei says rioters 'must be put in their place' as Iran protest deaths reach 15

2026-01-03

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made his first public comments Saturday on a week of economic protests shaking the Islamic Republic, declaring that "rioters must be put in their place" — a statement human rights groups said could signal a green light for aggressive security action. At least 15 people have been killed and more than 580 arrested, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, as demonstrations spread to more than 170 locations across 25 of Iran's 31 provinces.

South Korean president visits China as Taiwan tensions with Japan rise

2026-01-03

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung arrived in Beijing on Sunday for a four-day trip aimed at deepening ties with China amid heightened tensions between China and Japan over Taiwan. The visit is his first to China since taking office in June, and it will include meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Syria government, Kurdish-led SDF discuss merger with national army

2026-01-03

Syrian government officials held talks Sunday in Damascus with Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Kurdish-led force in Syria, over plans to merge it with the national army, state media reported. State TV said the meeting did not produce “tangible results” and that the sides agreed to hold further talks. The discussions came after rockets struck a western neighborhood of Damascus, state media said.

What to know about protests shaking Iran as internet is shut down

2026-01-03

Nationwide protests erupted in Iran as the government grappled with an economic crisis, and authorities responded by cracking down while shutting down internet access, according to an Associated Press explainer published Jan. 4. The unrest has been accompanied by reports of hundreds of demonstrations across Iran’s provinces and thousands of arrests, while Iran’s government has not released overall casualty figures.

US captures Maduro in Caracas strike; Venezuela president faces narco charges

2026-01-03

U.S. forces conducted what the Trump administration called a "large-scale strike" across Caracas on Jan. 3, 2026, capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, and placing them aboard a U.S. warship bound for New York to face criminal charges. Attorney General Pam Bondi said both had been indicted in the Southern District of New York on charges related to a narco-terrorism conspiracy. The operation ended months of escalating U.S. military action that included more than 35 strikes against alleged drug-smuggling vessels in Caribbean and Pacific waters, killing at least 115 people, according to administration announcements.

Federal workers file complaint over Trump’s gender-affirming care insurance ban

2026-01-03

The Trump administration is facing a new legal complaint from federal employees challenging a policy that, starting Thursday, would eliminate insurance coverage for gender-affirming care in federal health plans. The complaint was filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission on behalf of affected workers, according to the Human Rights Campaign, and seeks rescission of the Office of Personnel Management rule. The group says the change is sex-based discrimination.

Capitol riot officers say struggles linger after Trump pardons

2026-01-03

Five years after the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot, former and current officers who said they defended the building are still dealing with injuries, injuries’ long-term effects and a narrative they say has been minimized. As President Donald Trump took office for a second term on Jan. 20, 2025, former Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell received calls about federal pardons for roughly 1,500 people convicted for their actions that day.

Trump vows to 'run' Venezuela after U.S. military operation ousts Maduro

2026-01-03

President Donald Trump on Saturday declared a U.S. military operation that removed Nicolás Maduro from power in Venezuela a success and pledged that his administration would "run" the country through a transition period, according to the Associated Press. At a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, Trump called the operation "one of the most stunning, effective and powerful displays of American military might and competence in American history."

US forces seize Venezuela's Maduro in overnight raid; Trump claims control

2026-01-03

U.S. military forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in an overnight raid on his Caracas compound, President Donald Trump announced Saturday at his Florida home, describing a covert operation months in the making that removed a sitting head of state from office and delivered him to a U.S. warship. Trump said Maduro and Flores would face criminal charges in New York and declared that the United States would "run" Venezuela until a new leader can be chosen.

Trump makes false claims about drug boats and DC crime at Venezuela raid briefing

2026-01-03

President Donald Trump made false claims about the lethal impact of drug-boat strikes and Washington, D.C., homicide rates at a Saturday news conference called to explain the U.S. military raid that extracted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, according to an Associated Press fact-check published January 3, 2026. Trump's assertions — that each intercepted vessel prevents 25,000 American deaths, and that the capital had seen no killings in six or seven months — contradict federal data and Metropolitan Police Department records.

Israeli police kill Bedouin man during raid in southern Israel, local official says

2026-01-03

Israeli police shot and killed a Bedouin Arab man during an overnight raid in his village in southern Israel, a local official confirmed and Israeli police said on Sunday. The victim was identified as 36-year-old Muhammed Hussein Tarabin, whose death could further strain relations between the Israeli government and the Bedouin minority. The raid was part of a weeklong police operation in the village of Tarabin.

Maduro is held at MDC Brooklyn, a jail judges have criticized

2026-01-03

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, the Bureau of Prisons said, according to an Associated Press report published Sunday. The AP described MDC Brooklyn as a facility some judges have refused to use, and said it currently holds about 1,300 inmates.

Myanmar military grants amnesty to more than 6,100 prisoners for independence

2026-01-03

Myanmar’s military government granted amnesty to more than 6,100 prisoners Sunday and reduced sentences for other inmates to mark the 78th anniversary of the country’s independence from Britain, state media reported. It was not immediately clear whether the releases included thousands of political detainees held for opposing military rule.

Portugal presidential election starts with 11 candidates; runoff possible

2026-01-03

Portugal’s presidential election campaign began Sunday with 11 candidates competing for the Jan. 18 vote, a broad field that makes a runoff likely, according to the Associated Press. The official two-week campaign precedes the election, with two top finishers expected to advance to a Feb. 8 runoff ballot.

Rubio says U.S. will enforce Venezuela oil quarantine; Trump says ‘we’re in charge’

2026-01-03

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States would not govern Venezuela day-to-day beyond enforcing an existing “oil quarantine,” even as President Donald Trump reiterated that the U.S. would be “in charge” after a military operation that ousted Nicolás Maduro. Speaking as Venezuela’s interim leader Delcy Rodríguez urged the U.S. to collaborate, Rubio described using oil-related leverage to press for changes in Venezuela.

Shock and trepidation in Venezuela after US captures Maduro

2026-01-03

Anxious quiet settled over Caracas on Sunday after U.S. forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in a military operation early Saturday, with many people slow to resume routines and unable to absorb what comes next. U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined competing signals about what Washington plans to do, as Venezuelan officials shifted duties to Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, whom the high court named interim president.

Trump raises Greenland takeover calls after Venezuela raid, warns Cuba and Colombia

2026-01-03

President Donald Trump renewed calls for an American takeover of Greenland after a U.S. military operation in Venezuela, and he also threatened action toward Colombia and warned Cuba’s government, according to comments on Sunday. The remarks, delivered as Trump traveled back to Washington from Florida, came a day after the ouster of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro.

US intervention in Venezuela could test Trump’s ability to unite GOP

2026-01-03

President Donald Trump’s military intervention in Venezuela will pose a test of his ability to hold together a restive Republican coalition during an election year, the Associated Press reports. The AP said there were early signs of unease among Republicans after Trump’s mission to bring Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to New York to face criminal charges.

Health care rises as a priority for Americans, poll finds

2026-01-03

Health care costs are the top government priority for more Americans heading into 2026, according to an AP-NORC poll released Thursday. The survey found about 4 in 10 adults cited health care or health issues when asked to name up to five issues the government should address. The poll also found confidence in the government’s ability to make progress on major problems is low.

Trump pauses National Guard push for Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland

2026-01-03

President Donald Trump said he is dropping for now his push to deploy National Guard troops in Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon, a move that came after court rulings blocked parts of the plan. In a post on Wednesday, Trump said the federal troop presence was responsible for crime drops but that he would “come back” when crime rises again.

Mississippi lawmakers limit public input as hearings often lack agendas

2026-01-03

In Mississippi, residents say they have few formal ways to offer public testimony as the Legislature considers bills, with committee hearings often scheduled on short notice and without published agendas. The Associated Press reports that outside of special opportunities, constituents can rarely speak in committee, remotely, or in writing.

Trump officials seek to bar junk food from SNAP, but rules are hard

2026-01-03

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the newly confirmed health and human services secretary, and Brooke Rollins, the agriculture secretary, have signaled they want to restrict purchases of sugary drinks, candy and other so-called junk foods with SNAP, the program that helps low-income families buy food. The idea has been raised before, but making it work would require changes that lawmakers and regulators say are difficult to administer.

Trump administration orders Colorado coal unit to stay operating

2026-01-03

The Trump administration ordered the owners of Colorado’s Craig Station Unit 1 to keep the coal-fired generator running beyond its Wednesday retirement date, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The order came after Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association said a broken valve had taken the 446-megawatt unit out of operation, and that compliance would require repairs.

Trump administration terminates leases for Washington’s three public golf courses

2026-01-03

The Trump administration has ended a lease agreement for three public golf courses in Washington, offering President Donald Trump a chance to reshape federal land recreation. The National Links Trust, which has run the courses on behalf of the federal government for the past five years, said the Department of the Interior terminated the nonprofit’s 50-year lease after it failed to meet required capital-improvement plans.

Incoming New York mayor Zohran Mamdani to take oath on Quran

2026-01-03

Incoming New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani will take his midnight oath of office on a Quran in a subway station under City Hall on Dec. 31, a first for the city that also marks the first time a Muslim, South Asian and African-born person will hold the mayor’s office.

Zohran Mamdani sworn in as NYC mayor, vows expansive, audacious rule

2026-01-03

Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City mayor on Thursday, taking the oath just after midnight at a decommissioned subway station below City Hall. In an inaugural speech that drew a crowd along Broadway’s “Canyon of Heroes,” Mamdani, the city’s first Muslim mayor, said he would govern “expansively and audaciously” and warned the administration would not hesitate to use city power to improve residents’ lives.

New “American Abenaki” curriculum for Vermont schools faces Quebec nations

2026-01-03

Vermont officials announced a statewide school curriculum focused on Abenaki communities, but it has drawn sharp rebuke from Abenaki nations based in Quebec. The Quebec-based governments say the materials wrongly exclude them and amount to a “rewriting of history.” A bill is also set to be introduced in the Vermont Legislature that would require consultation and endorsement by Odanak and Wolinak before similar curriculum is used in schools.

Minnesota faces deadline to provide child-care fraud probe data to US

2026-01-03

Minnesota has until Jan. 9 to provide documents to the Trump administration as part of a federal child-care fraud probe that could cost the state additional funding, the state agency said in an email shared with The Associated Press. The Department of Children, Youth and Families said recent spot checks found several centers accused of fraud by a right-wing influencer were “operating as expected.” Providers and families who rely on the frozen federal child-care program were told to continue routine licensing and certification requirements.

Mamdani takes oath of office on Quran full of symbolism

2026-01-03

Incoming New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani took his midnight oath of office on Jan. 1 on a centuries-old Quran, a first for the city that also reflects other “firsts” in his own biography. The oath came as he became the first Muslim, first South Asian and first African-born person to lead New York City.

SNAP bans soda and candy in 5 states starting Jan. 1

2026-01-03

Starting Thursday, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah and West Virginia will apply new SNAP waivers that restrict what food shoppers can buy with federal benefits, banning certain items such as soda and candy. The changes come as the Trump administration’s health agenda seeks to reduce chronic diseases tied to sweetened drinks and other treats, but experts warn the rules are complex and may be hard to implement at the cash register.

Trump orders divestment of $2.9 million HieFo chips deal within 180 days

2026-01-03

President Donald Trump on Friday ordered the unraveling of a $2.9 million computer chips deal involving Emcore and HieFo, saying the current owner poses U.S. security risks. The executive order gives HieFo 180 days to divest the technology, citing “credible evidence” the company is a citizen of the People’s Republic of China.

Judge dismisses Louisville police reform deal tied to Breonna Taylor

2026-01-03

A federal judge in Kentucky dismissed Louisville’s proposed settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice over police reforms after the department withdrew support of the plan earlier this year. U.S. District Judge Benjamin Beaton ruled Dec. 31 that Louisville’s compliance obligations must remain with elected city representatives.

Nebraska to ban soda and energy drinks from SNAP under USDA waiver

2026-01-03

Nebraska will become the first state to ban the purchase of soda and energy drinks with SNAP benefits under a federal waiver announced Monday by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. The USDA said the change would affect about 152,000 people enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in Nebraska. Rollins and Gov. Jim Pillen said the restriction would help participants eat healthier, while anti-hunger advocates criticized it as punitive and potentially burdensome.

Zohran Mamdani begins NYC mayoral day with subway commute, revoked orders

2026-01-03

Zohran Mamdani began his first full day as New York City mayor with a subway commute through Manhattan, while images of the ride circulated online. Less than a day after his inauguration, he also revoked executive orders issued by former Mayor Eric Adams, including two tied to Israel-related policy—sparking backlash from some Jewish groups.

Ireland PM Micheál Martin to visit China and meet Xi in first trip in 14 years

2026-01-02

Ireland’s Prime Minister Micheál Martin will visit China starting Sunday and meet with President Xi Jinping during the first trip by an Irish leader in 14 years, China’s Foreign Ministry announced Saturday. The Chinese ministry said the five-day visit will also include meetings with Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, chairperson of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress.

Iran’s Khamenei calls for ‘rioters’ to be put in their place as protests rage

2026-01-02

Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Saturday that “rioters must be put in their place,” in his first comments on weekslong protests that have shaken the Islamic Republic amid economic unrest. State television aired the remarks as human rights activists said the violence around the demonstrations has killed at least 15 people.

Trump says Venezuela coup-like operation was a success, plans interim rule

2026-01-02

President Donald Trump said Saturday’s military operation that led to the ouster of Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro was a major success, and he offered a vague plan for his administration “to run” Venezuela until a transition can take place. Trump spoke at a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, as governments and lawmakers in multiple countries voiced concerns about legality and stability.

Zelenskyy names intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov as new chief of staff

2026-01-02

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has chosen Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine’s head of military intelligence, as his new chief of staff, according to the Associated Press. Budanov will replace Andrii Yermak, Zelenskyy’s longtime chief aide who resigned in November after anti-corruption officials raided his apartment in an investigation into alleged graft in Ukraine’s energy sector.

California adds fee on products with embedded batteries to fund recycling

2026-01-02

Starting this year, Californians will pay a 1.5 percent surcharge — capped at $15 — every time they buy a product with a non-removable battery, from power tools and gaming consoles to singing greeting cards. The fee, which took effect January 1, expands the state's electronic-waste recycling program to cover the lithium-ion batteries now embedded in thousands of everyday consumer products. The change stems from Senate Bill 1215, authored by former state Sen. Josh Newman, a Democrat who represented parts of Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties, and signed into law in 2022 by Gov. Gavin Newsom. California's Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery estimates about 7,300 tons of batteries reach landfills illegally or by accident each year.

Minnesota ends state health coverage for 15,000 undocumented adult immigrants

2026-01-02

About 15,000 adult immigrants living in Minnesota without legal status lost access to MinnesotaCare, the state's subsidized health insurance program for low-income residents, on Jan. 1, 2026, after a divided state Legislature voted last year to strip benefits that Democrats had extended in 2023. The rollback took effect at midnight despite protests from Democratic-Farmer-Labor lawmakers who had championed the original expansion as a progressive milestone.

Big Tech blocks California data center rules, leaving only a study requirement

2026-01-02

California's 2025 push to regulate data centers' surging electricity demand ended with a single surviving measure: a law directing state utility regulators to publish a report on cost impacts by 2027. Stronger proposals — including a separate electricity rate for data centers, grid battery mandates, and electricity-disclosure requirements — collapsed under pressure from Big Tech, business groups, and Gov. Gavin Newsom. The lone survivor, authored by state Sen. Steve Padilla, D-Chula Vista, began as a plan to shield households and small businesses from higher energy bills by creating a distinct rate structure for data centers. By the time it passed, that core provision had been stripped out.

State audit exposes deep financial failures at Texas Southern University

2026-01-02

A Texas state audit released this week found sweeping financial control failures at Texas Southern University, including vendor records that were wrong or missing in 97 percent of checked cases and no physical inventory of university assets since 2019. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick called the findings "beyond disturbing" on Wednesday and announced that he, Gov. Greg Abbott, and House Speaker Dustin Burrows have halted all TSU contract spending except ongoing expenses needed to keep the school open.

DeSantis appoints Urban Meyer to New College of Florida board

2026-01-02

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has appointed College Football Hall of Famer Urban Meyer to the board of trustees at New College of Florida, extending the governor's two-year effort to reshape the small Sarasota liberal arts school along conservative lines. The appointment, announced Tuesday, is subject to confirmation by the Florida state Senate.

France defends citizenship for George and Amal Clooney after fairness concerns

2026-01-02

George and Amal Clooney were granted French citizenship, the French government said Wednesday, defending the naturalization after a junior minister raised questions about fairness. The Foreign Ministry said the couple met eligibility criteria for naturalization because they contribute to France’s international influence and cultural outreach.

Gambia boat capsized with migrants missing; 102 rescued, Barrow says

2026-01-02

A boat carrying more than 200 migrants capsized off the coast of Gambia on New Year’s Eve, leaving dozens missing, Gambian President Adama Barrow said late Friday. Barrow said at least 102 survivors were rescued and seven bodies were recovered from the crash near the village of Jinack in the North Bank region.

Minneapolis church brings acupuncture and Reiki to migrant ministry

2026-01-02

Right after Sunday worship at St. Paul’s-San Pablo Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, Juan Carlos Toapanta lay in a lounge chair with acupuncture needles in his forehead, wrist and foot during an hourlong session. The church, which has served Latino migrants and expanded its ministries during the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, has added no-cost well-being gatherings that include acupuncture, Reiki and cupping therapy.

Myanmar election: military-backed USDP leads early results in vote’s first phase

2026-01-02

Myanmar’s military-appointed election body has begun announcing winners from the first phase of the country’s three-part general election, showing the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) leading, AP reported Saturday. The announcement followed balloting on Dec. 28 in 102 townships, with more than 6 million people casting ballots, the military government said.

Social media effort pairs kidney patients with volunteer “angel advocates”

2026-01-02

HARRISBURG, Pa. — Fernando Moreno, who has been on dialysis for about two years while waiting for a kidney transplant, has been connected to a pilot program that pairs patients with volunteer strangers using social media outreach. The effort, based in Pennsylvania hospitals and supported by the Gift of Life Donor Program, is testing whether “angel advocates” can improve the odds of finding living kidney donors for patients who have limited social networks.

Trump drops for now plan to deploy National Guard to Chicago, LA, Portland

2026-01-02

Donald Trump said he has abandoned for now his plan to deploy National Guard troops in Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland after legal obstacles blocked the effort, the Associated Press reported. In a post on social media on Wednesday, Trump said, “Regresaremos, quizás de una forma mucho más diferente y fuerte, cuando la delincuencia vuelva a dispararse... Sólo es cuestión de tiempo.”

Trump repeats false claims on Venezuela raid, AP fact check says

2026-01-02

Trump repeated several claims he has made before while discussing a U.S. raid aimed at extracting Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, according to an Associated Press fact check published Saturday. In a lengthy news conference, President Donald Trump also praised U.S. military activity and U.S. National Guard deployments, while at times veering into other topics, the fact check said.

Turkmenistan legalizes crypto mining and exchanges, but bans payments

2026-01-02

Turkmenistan legalized cryptocurrency mining and cryptocurrency exchanges on Thursday, a shift signed into law by President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The legislation brings “virtual assets” under civil law and sets up a licensing scheme for exchanges overseen by the central bank, while barring digital currencies from being used as a means of payment, currency or security.

U.S. officials urge end-to-end encryption after hacking exposed phone data

2026-01-02

U.S. cybersecurity officials are advising people to use end-to-end encryption after a sprawling hacking campaign exposed communications of an unknown number of Americans, AP reported. The campaign originated in China, and federal authorities released security recommendations for telecom companies that were targeted, including Verizon and AT&T.

Venezuelans wonder who’s in charge after Maduro’s ouster

2026-01-02

Venezuelans scrambled on Saturday to understand who was in control of their country after the U.S. military captured President Nicolás Maduro, removing the Venezuelan leader who had survived a failed coup, mutinies, protests and sanctions. In Caracas, fears spread quickly as streets emptied and residents lined up for basic goods, while President Donald Trump said the United States would take control of Venezuela.

Iran appoints new central bank governor after currency hits record low

2026-01-01

Iran appointed Abdolnasser Hemmati as the country’s new central bank governor on Wednesday, as protests erupted after the rial fell to a record low against the U.S. dollar. The appointment came after President Masoud Pezeshkian’s Cabinet accepted the resignation of Mohammad Reza Farzin, who stepped down on Monday.

Protests erupt in Iran after rial sinks to record lows; central bank chief resigns

2026-01-01

Protests erupted across Iran on Monday after the rial fell to a record low versus the U.S. dollar and the head of the central bank resigned, according to state television and official news agencies. In Tehran, demonstrators gathered around major bazaars and shopkeepers closed businesses, while police used tear gas in some areas to disperse crowds, witnesses told The Associated Press.

Chief Justice John Roberts says Constitution is “firm and unshaken”

2026-01-01

Chief Justice John Roberts told U.S. judges in his annual letter that the Constitution remains “firm and unshaken,” writing, “True then; true now.” The message comes as the Supreme Court prepares for major cases in 2026 and as legal fights have followed President Donald Trump’s allies’ pushback against rulings affecting the administration.

At least 7 killed as Iran protests over economy spread to rural provinces

2026-01-01

Widening demonstrations sparked by Iran's ailing economy spread Thursday into rural provinces, with at least seven people killed in the first fatalities reported among protesters and security forces since the unrest began, authorities said. The deaths — two on Wednesday and five on Thursday — occurred across four cities largely home to Iran's Lur ethnic group.

California to charge new fee for products with non-removable lithium batteries

2026-01-01

Starting this year, Californians will pay a new fee every time they buy a product with a non-removable battery, including items such as power tools, gaming devices and some greeting cards, under a law signed in 2022. The 1.5% surcharge, capped at $15, is intended to expand a state-backed recycling program for lithium batteries.

EV tax credits end: buyers have until Sept. 30 to qualify

2026-01-01

Federal tax incentives for electric vehicles end after a Congress-passed package takes effect, but buyers have until Sept. 30 to qualify for the credits on EVs. Even without the federal tax breaks, experts say many drivers could still save money over time and may see climate benefits compared with gasoline cars.

Health insurance subsidies tied to Affordable Care Act expire for millions

2026-01-01

Millions of Americans who buy health plans through the Affordable Care Act are set to see higher premium costs in 2026 after enhanced tax credits expired overnight, the Associated Press reported. The change affects people who do not get coverage through an employer and do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare, including many self-employed workers and small-business owners.

Buddhist monks reach Georgia on cross-country peace walk toward Washington

2026-01-01

A group of about two dozen Buddhist monks, walking from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., to promote peace, reached Georgia on day 66 of their trek, the Associated Press reported Dec. 30. The monks planned to walk from the town of Morrow to Decatur that day and invited the public to an afternoon Peace Gathering in Decatur. The journey, which began Oct. 26, has drawn more than 400,000 followers on Facebook.

Disney World worker injured stopping runaway boulder at Indiana Jones stunt show

2026-01-01

A Walt Disney World employee was knocked to the ground and injured Tuesday while trying to stop a 400-pound (181-kilogram) prop boulder that moved off its track and rolled toward seated audience members at the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Florida. A second worker stopped the boulder before it reached the spectators, the company confirmed Wednesday.

Federal employees file complaint over Trump health care ban for gender care

2026-01-01

A group of federal employees filed a legal complaint Thursday challenging a Trump administration policy that will eliminate coverage for gender-affirming care in federal health insurance programs. The complaint was filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and seeks rescission of the policy issued by the Office of Personnel Management.

Court allows Medicaid funding cuts for Planned Parenthood while cases continue

2026-01-01

A federal appeals court ruled that the Trump administration can continue withholding Medicaid funding from Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers while related lawsuits proceed. The ruling came as a coalition of Democratic-led states challenged the cuts in separate cases in Massachusetts and Maine.

A rough year for journalists in 2025, with a little hope

2026-01-01

2025 was a rough year for media workers, with the Committee to Protect Journalists saying the number of journalists killed worldwide by early December matched 2024’s total and that impunity remains a central obstacle to accountability. In the United States, the AP reported 170 reports of assaults on journalists in 2025, with 160 attributed to law enforcement, while PEN America’s Tim Richardson said the assault on the press has been among the most aggressive in modern times.

Zohran Mamdani to start NYC mayoral term with midnight subway oath

2026-01-01

Zohran Mamdani will be sworn in as mayor of New York City just after midnight on Thursday in a former City Hall subway station, before a second, larger ceremony at City Hall later that day, the Associated Press reported. New York Attorney General Letitia James will administer the midnight oath, and Mamdani’s public swearing-in is set to include U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders and remarks from U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

9th Circuit blocks Hawaii's climate tourist tax on cruise ships

2026-01-01

A federal appeals court blocked enforcement of Hawaii's first-in-the-nation climate change tourist tax on cruise ships on New Year's Eve, halting a levy that had been set to take effect Jan. 1, 2026. Two judges of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals granted injunctions pending appeal after Cruise Lines International Association challenged the law as an unconstitutional tax on vessels entering Hawaii ports.

ACA health subsidies expire, leaving millions facing sharply higher premiums in 2026

2026-01-01

Enhanced tax credits that reduced health insurance costs for more than 20 million Affordable Care Act enrollees expired at midnight Wednesday, beginning 2026 with premium increases averaging 114% for subsidized participants, according to an analysis by the health care research nonprofit KFF. The expiration affects self-employed workers, small business owners, farmers, and others who purchase coverage on the individual market and do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare.

Most major U.S. retailers open New Year's Day as banks and government close

2026-01-01

Most major U.S. retailers will be open on New Year's Day, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, while government offices, courts, post offices, banks, and stock markets will remain closed for the federal holiday, the Associated Press reported. Hours vary by location, and shoppers should verify schedules with their local stores before heading out.

Adult immigrants in Minnesota lose MinnesotaCare coverage starting Jan. 1

2026-01-01

Adult immigrants in Minnesota lost access to state-funded health care on Jan. 1, after the state ended MinnesotaCare benefits for most people who entered the country illegally. The change affects about 15,000 adults statewide, according to the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

AP journalists share uplifting moments from 2025, from pope call to Nobel

2026-01-01

Associated Press journalists reported several uplifting moments from around the world in 2025, including a surprise phone call after the election of the first American pope and a Nobel prize announcement delivered before dawn. The year’s calmer scenes also included a wedding held in a typhoon-flooded church in the Philippines and a youth theater production that returned after a wildfire.

AP photo editors curate 100 images that defined 2025 worldwide

2026-01-01

The Associated Press photo editors curated a gallery of “AP photos that defined the year,” highlighting images they say captured moments from around the world in 2025. The gallery includes photographs from conflict zones, migration routes and other global scenes, and it lists the photo editors who assembled it. The AP published the “100 Photos of 2025” collection on Dec. 1, 2025.

Big Tech blocks California data center bills, leaving study requirement

2026-01-01

California enacted a law that requires regulators to study how data centers affect the energy grid and rates for years to come, after Big Tech and business groups pushed back on broader rules. The measure is a scaled-down remnant of last year’s effort to address the energy demand behind artificial intelligence, and it could shape debates in the 2026 legislative session. (CalMatters via the Associated Press)

Brazil’s Bolsonaro leaves hospital, returns to jail in Brasilia

2026-01-01

Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro left a hospital in Brasilia on Thursday after double hernia surgery, a week after the operation, and returned to the federal police headquarters where he is serving a 27-year prison sentence. The hospital said he was released after additional minor medical procedures and that the surgery was completed without complications.

DeSantis picks Urban Meyer to join board at New College in Sarasota

2026-01-01

College football Hall of Famer Urban Meyer has been appointed to the board of trustees at New College in Sarasota, Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Tuesday, according to The Associated Press. The appointment is subject to confirmation by the state Senate, the AP reported. Meyer is a college football analyst for FOX Sports and previously coached the University of Florida and Ohio State to national championships.

Democrats find a louder voice in The Villages as Harris campaign ramps up

2026-01-01

The Villages in central Florida—long known as a conservative retirement enclave—has seen a small but growing Democratic presence as Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign draws more residents out of private politics, the Associated Press reported. AP said the shift is visible in neighborhood conversations, campaign-themed golf-cart parades, and visits by second gentleman Doug Emhoff.

Faith leaders brace immigrant communities for harsher Trump immigration push

2026-01-01

Faith leaders who minister to immigrant communities in the United States said many targeted groups are bracing for a harsher year as President Donald Trump pursues tougher immigration policies and language. They cited fears spanning Haitians in legal limbo in Ohio, Afghan refugees facing new restrictions, and Somali Americans in Minnesota after Trump’s contemptuous remarks.

Huge crowds attend funeral prayers in Bangladesh for Khaleda Zia

2026-01-01

Huge crowds gathered outside Bangladesh’s parliament building in Dhaka on Wednesday for funeral prayers for former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who died a day earlier at age 80 after a prolonged illness. People from Dhaka and other parts of the country streamed toward the venue on Manik Mia Avenue starting early in the morning.

Indonesia begins enforcing new penal code, replacing Dutch-era law

2026-01-01

Indonesia on Friday began enforcing its newly ratified penal code, known as the KUHP, replacing a Dutch-era criminal law that had governed the country for more than 80 years. The 345-page code was passed in 2022 and comes into force after a three-year transition period, marking a major shift in Indonesia’s legal landscape.

Influential figures who died in 2025 from Pope Francis to Dick Cheney

2026-01-01

Many influential people died in 2025, including Pope Francis, boxing great George Foreman, and U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney. The year also included the deaths of activist Charlie Kirk, sex trafficking survivor Virginia Giuffre and others whose passing prompted renewed public attention.

Japan’s emperor and family greet New Year well-wishers at Imperial Palace

2026-01-01

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito and members of the imperial family greeted New Year well-wishers at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Friday, waving from the palace balcony as people shouted “banzai.” Standing with his wife, Masako, and other relatives, Naruhito wished the crowd a happy new year after a statement released in advance. The annual appearance draws large crowds despite the palace’s central location and restricted grounds.

Northern Territory to consider assisted-dying law again after 1995 repeal

2026-01-01

Australia’s Northern Territory will consider legislation to legalize doctor-assisted dying for a second time, the territory’s attorney-general said Friday. The proposal comes as Australia’s federal parliament lifted the ban on territories passing such laws and states adopted similar reforms over the years, after the Northern Territory’s 1995 euthanasia framework was overturned. Lawmakers would be allowed to vote by conscience rather than follow party lines, Marie-Clare Boothby said.

Texas audit finds weaknesses at Texas Southern University financials

2026-01-01

Texas Southern University faces significant financial and asset-management weaknesses, according to a Texas state audit released this week. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick called the findings “beyond disturbing,” and said his office and other Republican leaders have ended TSU spending on contracts outside ongoing university expenses needed to keep the school open.

Trump, Nicklaus to revamp military golf course at Joint Base Andrews

2026-01-01

President Donald Trump plans to renovate the Courses at Andrews, the military golf courses inside Joint Base Andrews near Washington, according to the White House and a report by AP. Trump is working with golf course designer Jack Nicklaus, and plans are described as early-stage, with costs and funding not yet determined.

Under Trump, reshaped EPA veers from traditional mission

2026-01-01

The Trump administration has reshaped the Environmental Protection Agency in its first year, cutting federal limits on air and water pollution while promoting fossil fuels, according to an Associated Press review. The changes mark a sharp departure from the agency’s long-standing mission to protect human health and the environment.

Xi’s New Year’s Eve address hails tech drive, reiterates Taiwan annexation vow

2026-01-01

Chinese President Xi Jinping used a New Year’s Eve address broadcast by state media to praise China’s technological progress and renew his pledge to annex self-ruled Taiwan. In the Wednesday evening remarks, Xi highlighted advances in areas including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, military technology and space exploration, while also discussing China’s economic planning and its standing on the world stage.

USDA sets per-acre farm aid for crops hurt by Trump’s China tariffs

2026-01-01

Farmers are starting to learn how much federal assistance they can expect under a $12 billion package President Donald Trump announced earlier this month, after the U.S. Department of Agriculture released Wednesday the per-acre amounts for major row crops. The payments are designed to help producers weather disruptions from the tariff dispute with China, which halted purchases of American soybeans.

Unfulfilled Trump tariff threats in 2025 show what did not take hold

2026-01-01

President Donald Trump made numerous tariff threats and trade promises in 2025, but several of the most sweeping ones had not taken effect as of late December. An Associated Press review of his public comments found examples ranging from plans for a new “External Revenue Service” to proposals for 100% tariffs on imports ranging from films to pharmaceuticals.

US sanctions 4 Venezuelan oil firms and 4 tankers in Maduro crackdown

2026-01-01

The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on four firms operating in Venezuela’s oil sector and designated four additional oil tankers that it said are part of a shadow fleet serving President Nicolás Maduro’s government. The Treasury Department said the firms and tankers are now “blocked property,” limiting their ability to access assets held in the United States.

Tight space at the White House has long been an issue, usher says

2026-01-01

President Donald Trump has argued that the White House needs more space to entertain, and a longtime White House chief usher says that concern has surfaced with multiple presidents. Gary Walters, who served in the residence through seven administrations, said earlier presidents discussed the limits of the State Dining Room and East Room during state dinner setups.

Trump administration ends leases for DC’s three public golf courses

2026-01-01

President Donald Trump’s administration terminated the 50-year lease that governed three public golf courses on federal land in Washington, offering a new opportunity to reshape the sites in the nation’s capital, according to the National Links Trust and the Department of the Interior.

Trump administration orders Colorado coal plant to keep running past retirement

2026-01-01

The Trump administration has ordered Tri-State Generation and Transmission to keep Unit 1 of its Craig Station coal-fired power plant running beyond its Wednesday retirement date, citing an electricity-generation shortage in the northwestern United States. Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued the emergency order after a broken valve put 446-megawatt Unit 1 out of operation in December, and Tri-State said complying will be costly.

TikTok signs deals with Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX for U.S. unit

2026-01-01

TikTok has signed binding agreements with Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX to form a new U.S. joint venture, according to an internal memo seen by The Associated Press. CEO Shou Zi Chew told employees the deal is expected to close on Jan. 22 and that the U.S. venture will have protections for Americans’ data and U.S. national security.

Trump administration calls for tightening child care funds after fraud accusations

2026-01-01

The Trump administration said it plans to tighten federal rules for child care funding, including delaying payments to states and requiring additional verification. The changes come as it freezes child care funds for Minnesota and faces criticism from Gov. Tim Walz, who said the policy is being used for political purposes.

Trump administration freezes Minnesota child care funds and demands audits

2026-01-01

The Trump administration said it is freezing child care funds to Minnesota and demanding audits of some day care centers after allegations of fraud tied to federal programs. Deputy Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill said the move responds to “blatant fraud that appears to be rampant in Minnesota and across the country.” Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz disputed the rationale, saying the action is part of “Trump’s long game.”

Trump vetoes two bipartisan bills, including Colorado water pipeline

2026-01-01

President Donald Trump issued his first vetoes of his second term on Tuesday, rejecting two low-profile bipartisan bills. He vetoed legislation from Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado on drinking-water pipeline funding and blocked a measure that would have given the Miccosukee Tribe more control of some tribal lands in Florida.

Trump administration rolls out rural health transformation funding for states

2026-01-01

The Trump administration announced a Rural Health Transformation Program that will distribute $10 billion to states in 2026 to help offset budget cuts affecting rural hospitals. Federal officials said awards average about $200 million per state and will be tied in part to whether states adopt health policies prioritized under the administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” initiative.

Mamdani to take midnight oath on Quran in NYC, marking historic firsts

2026-01-01

Incoming New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani will take his midnight oath on a Quran in a subway station beneath City Hall, the Associated Press reported. The ceremony will mark the first time a New York mayor has used the Quran to be sworn in, and Mamdani will also become the first Muslim, first South Asian and first African-born person to hold the office.

Pope Leo XIV closes 2025 Jubilee prayer asking Rome to welcome foreigners

2026-01-01

Pope Leo XIV closed out 2025 with New Year’s Eve vespers at St. Peter’s Basilica, praying that Rome be welcoming to foreigners and vulnerable people, young and old. In his homily, the pope said he wanted it “to be so again” after the “time of grace” of the Holy Year, which brought millions of pilgrims to Rome.

Trump drops push for National Guard in Chicago, LA and Portland

2026-01-01

President Donald Trump said he is dropping “for now” his push to deploy National Guard troops in Chicago, Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon, after legal challenges blocked parts of the effort, according to a Wednesday social media post. Legal roadblocks previously prevented the Guard from operating on the streets in Portland and from being deployed in the Chicago area, while Los Angeles troops were removed earlier this year.

Trump officials eye limits on sugary drinks and candy in SNAP benefits

2026-01-01

Trump administration officials have signaled interest in limiting items such as sugary drinks and candy in the federal SNAP program, which helps low-income families pay for food. Newly confirmed Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins have both raised questions about using SNAP benefits for “soda or processed foods” and “bad food and sugary drinks.” But past attempts show that changing SNAP restrictions is difficult because the program operates under federal law and is implemented through states.

Health care rises as a priority for Americans, poll finds

2026-01-01

Nearly 4 in 10 U.S. adults named health care as a top issue for the federal government to address in 2026, up from about one-third last year, according to an AP-NORC poll. The survey found Americans also remain focused on immigration and worries about rising costs as they look ahead to next year’s midterm elections.

Zohran Mamdani sworn in as NYC mayor, pledges “expansively and audaciously”

2026-01-01

Zohran Mamdani became mayor of New York City on Thursday, taking office shortly after midnight at a decommissioned subway station below City Hall. In his inaugural speech, the Democrat, who was sworn in on a Quran as the city’s first Muslim mayor, pledged to govern “expansively and audaciously” and to use City Hall’s power to improve residents’ lives.

SNAP waivers ban soda, candy in 5 states starting Jan. 1

2026-01-01

Americans in Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah and West Virginia will face new SNAP rules starting Jan. 1 that bar the use of benefits to buy certain items including soda and candy, the Agriculture Department said. The waivers are part of a broader federal push aimed at reducing chronic diseases tied to diet, though health and retail experts warned the changes could be difficult to implement and may not improve health outcomes.

Times Square to use patriotic crystal ball to start U.S. 250th on New Year’s Eve

2026-01-01

New Year’s Eve in Times Square will feature a patriotic crystal ball and a second confetti drop as the ceremony kicks off months of U.S. 250th birthday celebrations, according to America250 leaders and organizers. The ball is scheduled to drop on Dec. 31, 2025, and is set to rise again afterward, while the stroke of midnight will also mark the launch of America Gives, a national service initiative created by America250.

Justice Department reviews 5.2 million Epstein files, misses deadline

2025-12-31

The Department of Justice has expanded its review of documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein to 5.2 million files and assigned more than 400 attorneys to the task, but does not expect to release additional material until Jan. 20 or 21 — more than a month past a Dec. 19 congressional deadline — according to a person briefed on a letter sent to U.S. Attorneys who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss it.

Appeals court lets Medicaid cuts to Planned Parenthood stand during suit

2025-12-31

A federal appeals court ruled Tuesday that the Trump administration may continue withholding Medicaid funding from Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers while states challenge the cuts in court, delivering a setback to a coalition seeking to restore payments at health centers serving millions of low-income Americans. The decision allows the restrictions to remain in effect as litigation in Massachusetts proceeds. Those cuts were enacted through legislation President Donald Trump signed in July that eliminated Medicaid reimbursement for Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers that received more than $800,000 in 2023.

Trump drops National Guard deployment to Chicago, LA, and Portland after court losses

2025-12-31

President Donald Trump said Wednesday he has abandoned, at least for now, his effort to deploy National Guard troops in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland after courts blocked the initiative at nearly every stage. "We will be back, perhaps in a much different and stronger form, when crime spikes again," Trump wrote on social media. "Just a matter of time."

Judge blocks White House bid to defund CFPB, keeping workers paid

2025-12-31

A federal judge blocked a White House effort to defund the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, ruling the agency should continue receiving money through the Federal Reserve even as a court fight over layoffs continues. The decision came days before the bureau’s funding would have likely run out, according to the court opinion.

New 2026 state laws include Hawaii climate “green fee” and Trump plates

2025-12-31

With 2026 arriving, a new set of state laws is taking effect that spans climate policy, alcohol enforcement, prescription drug pricing and vehicle licensing. Hawaii plans to raise a tourist lodging tax to fund climate resilience projects, while Utah expands rules intended to keep alcohol out of the hands of people convicted of drunken driving. California, Washington and Georgia are also among the states introducing changes involving insulin pricing, minimum wage increases and specialty license plates.

U.S. sanctions 10 people and firms tied to Iran drone, missile efforts

2025-12-31

The U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions on 10 people and firms from Iran and Venezuela over alleged support for Iran’s drone and ballistic missile-related programs, according to the Treasury and State Departments. Treasury said the measures are intended to support the reimposition of United Nations sanctions on Iran’s nuclear program.

Nevada casinos urge Congress to restore full deduction of gambling losses

2025-12-31

Nevada lawmakers and casino executives are pressing Congress to reverse a federal tax change that, starting in 2026, limits the deduction of gambling losses. The change reduces players’ deductible losses from 100% to 90%, a shift casino leaders and poker players say is already affecting planning for the new year.

Vermont provides millions for nursing home bailouts as beds shrink

2025-12-31

Vermont has used “extraordinary financial relief” backed by Medicaid dollars to help nursing homes stay afloat as the state’s long-term care system shrank, according to state records obtained by VTDigger and reported by The Associated Press. The program has delivered about $38 million over the past five years, and lawmakers have asked for detailed reports and payment records. State health officials say without it, Vermont would have lost even more bed capacity for elderly residents.

Jazz group cancels performance at Kennedy Center amid name dispute

2025-12-31

Several artists have canceled upcoming appearances at the Kennedy Center after the facility added President Donald Trump’s name, prompting new withdrawals including a jazz group that pulled out of a New Year’s Eve show and a New York dance company that canceled a planned April performance.

Democrats warn Trump may intervene in 2026 midterms

2025-12-31

Democrats and other critics say President Donald Trump’s administration is taking steps they worry could affect the way Americans vote in the 2026 midterm elections. They point to efforts they say aim to reshape congressional districts and to federal actions they view as targeting Democrats. Trump’s allies deny those plans, arguing the concerns are baseless.

California delays revoking 17,000 commercial drivers’ licenses until March

2025-12-31

California will delay revoking 17,000 commercial drivers’ licenses until March, the state said Tuesday, after immigrant advocacy groups filed a lawsuit challenging the process. The move comes after U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said he could withhold $160 million if California misses a Jan. 5 deadline tied to enforcing federal requirements.

ICE won’t detain Abrego Garcia again while judge’s order holds

2025-12-31

U.S. immigration officials do not plan to detain Kilmar Abrego Garcia again as long as a federal judge’s order barring it remains in effect, according to a court filing. The decision is part of the continuing legal fight after Abrego Garcia was mistakenly deported and later returned to the United States, where the administration has accused him of human smuggling tied to a claim he has said is false.

Italy parliament approves 2026 budget, targets 2.8% deficit under EU rules

2025-12-31

Italy’s Parliament on Dec. 30 approved the government’s 2026 budget, setting deficit-cutting measures aimed at bringing the deficit down to 2.8% of gross domestic product, from a previously targeted 3%. The conservative coalition led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni won final approval in the lower house by a 216-126 vote.

Judge halts Trump plan to end temporary protected status for South Sudanese

2025-12-31

A federal judge in Massachusetts temporarily blocked the Trump administration from starting deportations tied to a move to end Temporary Protected Status for South Sudanese immigrants, while the court considers whether the change is unlawful. The decision keeps in place protections for about 300 people living in the U.S. under the program, or with pending applications, until a final ruling. The Department of Homeland Security criticized the order.

US health policy reshaped under RFK Jr., triggering vaccine and science concerns

2025-12-31

President Donald Trump’s second-term health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has overhauled the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and changed agency guidance on topics including COVID-19 vaccines, according to Associated Press reporting. The first-year shakeups include job and research cuts at multiple agencies, alongside support from some backers of Kennedy’s Make America Healthy Again agenda. Many doctors and public health experts say the moves risk hollowing out U.S. scientific capacity.

Democrat Renee Hardman wins Iowa Senate seat, blocking GOP supermajority

2025-12-30

Democrat Renee Hardman was elected to the Iowa state Senate on Tuesday in a year-end special election, denying Republicans a path to reclaim two-thirds control of the chamber. The seat became vacant after the Oct. 6 death of Democratic Sen. Claire Celsi, and Hardman defeated Republican Lucas Loftin by about 43 percentage points with 99% of votes counted.

Judge blocks White House attempt to defund the CFPB, preserving pay

2025-12-30

NEW YORK — A federal district court judge blocked the White House from stopping funding for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, ruling that the CFPB should keep getting money from the Federal Reserve, so employees can keep getting paid. The decision came days before the bureau’s funds would have likely run out, according to the court.

Judge temporarily blocks Trump move to end protected status for South Sudanese

2025-12-30

A federal judge in Massachusetts temporarily halted President Donald Trump’s move to revoke Temporary Protected Status for South Sudanese immigrants, preventing the government from starting deportations while the case is decided. The lawsuit, filed in late December, argued the change violates administrative procedure and the Constitution. Judge Angel Kelley wrote that the revocation could cause irreversible harm.

Nevada lawmakers urge repeal of change limiting gambling loss tax deductions

2025-12-30

Nevada lawmakers and gaming industry leaders are pressing Congress to restore a federal tax deduction that will reduce how much gamblers can deduct losses from winnings starting in 2026. Lawmakers including Rep. Dina Titus and Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto say the change will hurt Nevada’s casinos and the broader sports-betting and tournament economy in the months ahead.

Former Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell dies at 92

2025-12-30

Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a former U.S. senator and House member from Colorado known for advocacy on Native American issues, died Tuesday at 92, according to his daughter, Shanan Campbell, who confirmed his death to The Associated Press. The Democrat who later joined the Republican Party was remembered for his bipartisan work on children’s rights, organized labor, and fiscal conservatism.

Florida Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick maintains innocence in $5M COVID funds case

2025-12-30

Miami-based federal prosecutors say Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick conspired to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds meant for pandemic vaccination work, but the Florida Democrat maintained her innocence on Dec. 29 outside a Miami federal courthouse. A hearing that was set for arraignment lasted less than five minutes after her attorney asked to reschedule it to Jan. 20 to finalize her legal team, with the judge agreeing.

Iowa Senate special election pits Hardman vs. Loftin for District 16 seat

2025-12-30

Voters in Iowa’s 16th State Senate District will choose a new state senator Tuesday in a special election that could help Republicans regain a supermajority in the chamber. The nominees are Democrat Renee Hardman of West Des Moines and Republican Lucas Loftin of Clive, running to replace the late Sen. Claire Celsi. Polls close at 8 p.m. local time, 9 p.m. ET.

Trump-era work rules could change SNAP, Medicaid and HUD housing eligibility

2025-12-30

Work requirements for low-income people receiving federal benefits would expand under a Trump administration priority that drew sharp criticism from economists and policy experts. The rules would affect adults receiving SNAP food assistance, certain Medicaid enrollees beginning in 2027, and potentially tenants using public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers if HUD adopts a proposed rule.

U.S. sanctions 10 people and firms over alleged Iran drone, missile ties

2025-12-30

The U.S. Treasury Department on Tuesday imposed sanctions on 10 people and companies from Iran and Venezuela, alleging they helped enable Iran’s drone trade and ballistic-missile program. The measures are intended to support U.N. sanctions on Iran and to further squeeze Iran’s access to the U.S. financial system, Treasury said.

Can Zohran Mamdani fulfill his big promises as NYC mayor?

2025-12-30

Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic socialist who will take over as New York City mayor on Jan. 1, faces a fast shift from campaigning to governing one of the country’s most scrutinized jobs. As he prepares to be sworn in twice—first around midnight in a private ceremony and then again on the City Hall steps—two longtime Democratic political strategists urged him to use the early days to show he can manage the city’s daily demands and build confidence in his agenda.

Vermont spends $38 million in bailouts to keep nursing homes afloat

2025-12-30

Vermont officials have used about $38 million in extraordinary financial relief to keep the state’s nursing homes operating as the long‑term‑care system loses capacity, state records show. The aid, drawn from Medicaid dollars, is intended as a temporary measure to prevent facility closures amid high staffing costs and a loss of roughly 900 beds over the past two decades. Lawmakers are now demanding detailed reports on the program as they explore longer‑term solutions.

Wyoming nonprofit gets $3.4 M from Nebraska opioid settlement for Nebraska clinic

2025-12-30

The Central Wyoming Counseling Center, a Wyoming nonprofit, was awarded $3.4 million from Nebraska’s Opioid Treatment Infrastructure Cash Fund to build a crisis‑stabilization center in Kimball County, Nebraska. Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) spokesperson Jeff Powell said the funding addresses a critical shortage of short‑term treatment options in the western Panhandle, where patients often travel hundreds of miles for care. Powell added that former acting CEO of the counseling center, Steve Corsi, now DHHS chief executive, had no role in the grant review or selection process.

Democrats renew concerns Trump will interfere with 2026 midterms

2025-12-30

Democrats and other critics say President Donald Trump is taking steps they fear could affect the 2026 midterm elections, including efforts tied to redistricting and federal enforcement actions. At the same time, Trump aides and the White House have denied plans to use military or armed federal agents to suppress voting, as litigation and election officials prepare for potential disruptions.

Alicia Johnson to become first Black woman elected to Georgia PSC in historic first

2025-12-30

Alicia Johnson will take office Thursday as Georgia’s Public Service Commission chair, becoming the first Black woman elected to the partisan, statewide body that regulates electricity rates in the state, the Associated Press reported. Johnson, who held a ceremonial swearing-in Monday in Atlanta, called her election a “historic milestone.”

California delays revoking 17,000 commercial driver licenses until March

2025-12-30

California will delay revoking about 17,000 commercial driver’s licenses until March after immigrant groups sued, state officials said Tuesday. The action comes amid pressure from U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who said the state could lose $160 million if it misses a Jan. 5 revocation deadline.

Federal officers expand Minnesota probe after allegations at Somali-run day cares

2025-12-30

The Trump administration said federal investigators are increasing operations in Minnesota, focusing on alleged fraud by day care centers run by Somali residents in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and FBI Director Kash Patel announced the surge after a right-wing influencer posted a video alleging up to $100 million in fraud. The move comes as prosecutors and regulators have pursued fraud cases in Minnesota involving state and federally funded programs for years.

Homeland Security says it is probing fraud in Minneapolis

2025-12-30

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said federal officials were conducting a fraud investigation in Minneapolis on Monday, as part of a broader push against alleged abuse of federal programs. The investigation follows earlier Minnesota cases tied to the Feeding Our Future nonprofit, and it comes amid heightened state-federal enforcement tensions during the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.

ICE won’t re-detain Abrego Garcia while ban order remains in effect

2025-12-30

U.S. immigration officials said they do not plan to detain Kilmar Abrego Garcia again as long as a judge’s order banning that action remains in place, according to a Tuesday court filing. The case has become a focal point in the administration’s immigration enforcement after Abrego Garcia was mistakenly deported to El Salvador and later ordered returned to the United States.

Italy parliament approves 2026 budget targeting deficit reduction to 2.8%

2025-12-30

Italy’s parliament approved the government’s 2026 budget in a vote that reduced the planned deficit target to 2.8% of gross domestic product, down from an earlier 3% target, according to the European Union’s requirements. The conservative coalition led by Premier Giorgia Meloni won the final vote in the lower house by 216-126, while the center-left opposition criticized the package as austerity.

Michigan loses $540 million in climate grants amid EV pullback

2025-12-30

Michigan saw about $540 million in climate-related federal grants canceled or held up after President Donald Trump took office, according to an analysis compiled by Atlas Public Policy. The shift also corresponds with changes in state and automaker plans for clean-energy manufacturing, including cancelled or delayed electric-vehicle and battery projects, the reporting says.

New Orleans to add National Guard security for New Year’s after Bourbon Street attack

2025-12-30

The Louisiana National Guard will begin a New Orleans security deployment Tuesday as celebrations get underway, about a year after a deadly New Year’s Day attack on Bourbon Street killed 14 people. Officials said the 350 Guard members will focus on visibility and patrols in the French Quarter and will not be involved in immigration enforcement. The city also plans to deploy more than 800 local, state and federal law enforcement officials to restrict vehicle access and search visitors.

New state laws for 2026 include Hawaii climate fee and Georgia Trump plates

2025-12-30

Hawaii will become the first state to raise its tourist lodging tax for climate-related projects as new 2026 laws take effect across the U.S., a federal minimum wage increase, and other state changes targeting public health and road safety. In Utah, restaurants and bars will have to check customers’ IDs before serving alcohol, including for customers of any age, and California will begin selling state-branded insulin.

US health policy reshaped in RFK Jr.’s first year at HHS

2025-12-30

President Donald Trump’s second-term health policy has been reshaped in Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s first year leading the Department of Health and Human Services, according to an Associated Press review. Since February, Kennedy has overseen major staffing changes and research cuts at HHS and its agencies, and has pushed policy shifts on topics including vaccines, fluoride and diet.

Judge blocks White House attempt to defund CFPB, preserving employee pay

2025-12-29

A federal district court judge ruled Tuesday that the White House cannot stop funding the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau through the Federal Reserve, a decision aimed at keeping the CFPB able to pay its employees. The ruling came as the administration argued the bureau would run out of money based on the Fed’s “combined earnings” for the agency.

South Korea’s LNG deals with US cast doubt on its coal-cut climate pledge

2025-12-29

South Korea has pledged to retire most of its coal-fired power plants by 2040 and cut carbon emissions by 2035, but it is also in talks tied to U.S. trade demands that could increase imports of U.S. liquefied natural gas. At United Nations climate talks, South Korea’s new ministry laid out the coal phaseout and emissions goals, while climate and energy experts said the parallel push for LNG could lock the country into fossil-fuel dependence. The potential U.S.-Seoul energy deal would include large-scale investment and LNG purchases alongside negotiations shaped by Trump-era tariffs.

U.S. sanctions ten individuals and firms in Iran and Venezuela over drone and missile trade

2025-12-29

Washington (AP) — The U.S. Treasury announced Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025, that it has sanctioned ten people and firms in Iran and Venezuela for facilitating the sale of drones and ballistic‑missile technology to Tehran. The sanctions target a Venezuelan company and its chairman accused of buying Iranian drones, three Iranian nationals linked to chemical procurement for missiles, and a network of Iran‑based firms tied to the previously sanctioned Rayan Fan Group. Treasury Undersecretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John K. Hurley said the measures “hold Iran and Venezuela accountable for their aggressive and reckless proliferation of deadly weapons around the world.” State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott added that Iran’s provision of conventional weapons to Caracas threatens U.S. interests in the region.

Supreme Court keeps Trump National Guard deployment blocked in Chicago

2025-12-29

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused an emergency request by the Trump administration to deploy National Guard troops in the Chicago area, leaving in place a federal judge’s order blocking the plan for now. The justices declined to overturn a ruling by U.S. District Judge April Perry that had stopped the deployment tied to the administration’s immigration crackdown.

Work requirements for SNAP, Medicaid and HUD benefits: a state-by-state impact

2025-12-29

President Donald Trump’s administration made work requirements for people receiving public benefits a priority, with changes reaching SNAP, Medicaid and HUD-subsidized housing. An Associated Press review of the policy shifts describes how new or expanded work rules—aimed at able-bodied adults without dependents—could force millions to document employment, job training, volunteering or other activity to keep benefits. Economists and policy experts cited by AP said the evidence for broader labor-market effects is mixed, while critics warn the rules could reduce access and increase administrative burdens.

Democrat Renee Hardman wins Iowa state Senate seat, denies GOP supermajority

2025-12-29

Demokrat Renee Hardman won a year-end special election for an Iowa state Senate seat on Tuesday, denying Republicans a path to reclaim a two-thirds supermajority in the 50-member chamber. Hardman defeated Republican Lucas Loftin in a district representing parts of the Des Moines suburbs, with about 99% of votes counted.

Iowa special election could decide GOP supermajority in state Senate

2025-12-29

Voters in Iowa’s 16th state Senate district will choose a new senator Tuesday in a special election that could help Republicans regain a supermajority in the chamber. The contest follows the death of three-term Democratic state Sen. Claire Celsi in October and pits Democratic nominee Renee Hardman against Republican nominee Lucas Loftin.

Nevada lawmakers seek to restore 100% deduction for gambling losses

2025-12-29

Nevada lawmakers and gaming industry leaders are pressing Congress to restore a 100% federal tax deduction for gambling losses after a new law cut the deductible share to 90% starting in 2026. Supporters say the change could affect tournaments, jobs and sports betting in Nevada as the new year approaches. Rep. Dina Titus and Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto have introduced legislation aimed at reversing the deduction reduction.

Trump warns Iran against nuclear reconstitution during Netanyahu Florida talks

2025-12-29

President Donald Trump told reporters at his Mar-a-Lago estate Monday that the United States could carry out further military strikes if Iran tries to reconstitute its nuclear program, as he met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida. Trump’s comments came shortly after he previously said U.S. strikes had “completely and fully obliterated” Iran’s nuclear capabilities and as Netanyahu-focused talks also centered on the U.S.-brokered Israel-Hamas ceasefire. Iran’s mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Dominion Energy sues to block Trump order pausing offshore wind projects

2025-12-29

Dominion Energy Virginia has asked a federal judge to block a Trump administration order that paused construction of its offshore wind project and four others, saying the government acted without proper basis. The order from the Interior Department’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management set a 90-day period to assess national security threats, while a hearing is set for 2 p.m. Monday on Dominion’s request for a temporary restraining order.

DOE watchdog to audit Trump clean energy grant cancellations tied to “Blue States”

2025-12-29

The U.S. Department of Energy’s inspector general will audit clean energy grant cancellations totaling $7.6 billion that the Trump administration terminated across 16 states. The move follows a court filing in which the government said the selection of grants was influenced by whether a grantee’s address was in a state that votes for Democratic candidates. Acting inspector general Sarah Nelson said the review will examine whether the cancellations followed “established criteria.”

Mamdani set to take over NYC with free-childcare, rent-freeze promises

2025-12-29

Zohran Mamdani will become New York City mayor on Jan. 1, stepping into a job where his campaign’s big affordability proposals will face scrutiny from both political allies and skeptics. Ahead of his inauguration, advisers and analysts said his early challenge will be turning a movement candidacy into day-to-day governing and managing expectations while building support for major policy changes.

Florida Rep. Cherfilus-McCormick maintains innocence in $5M COVID funds case

2025-12-29

U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick reiterated her innocence Monday outside a Miami federal courthouse, where she faced charges accusing her of conspiring to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds. Her arraignment was rescheduled to Jan. 20 after her attorney asked for more time to finalize her legal team.

US health policy dramatically reshaped under RFK Jr. in Trump’s second term

2025-12-29

The Trump administration’s second term has seen major changes at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who took office as health secretary in February. In a year marked by staffing reductions and shifts in health guidance, HHS has also promoted “Make America Healthy Again,” or MAHA, priorities while critics raised concerns about how vaccine policy and science roles are being handled.

Jazz group cancels at Kennedy Center after Trump name added to venue

2025-12-29

The Kennedy Center said artists are canceling performances after President Donald Trump’s name was added to the facility, with new withdrawals announced this week. The Cookers pulled out of “A Jazz New Year’s Eve,” Doug Varone and Dancers canceled a scheduled April performance, and Chuck Redd canceled a Christmas Eve show last week, according to The Associated Press. The announcements come as the venue faces declining ticket sales and weaker viewership for the Dec. 23 broadcast of the Kennedy Center Honors.

Kennedy Center blasts musician after Trump name added to building

2025-12-29

The Kennedy Center’s president, Richard Grenell, threatened a $1 million lawsuit on Friday after jazz musician Chuck Redd cancelled his annual Christmas‑Eve Jazz Jam in protest of the venue’s recent renaming that adds former President Donald Trump’s name to the building’s exterior.

Italy Parliament approves 2026 budget targeting lower deficit

2025-12-29

Italy’s Parliament approved the government’s 2026 budget on Tuesday, backed by deficit-cutting measures that would reduce the deficit target to 2.8% of gross domestic product. The conservative coalition led by Premier Giorgia Meloni won in the lower house 216-126, while the center-left opposition said the plan leans on austerity and does not address low pay and high taxes.

Democrats warn Trump could interfere in 2026 midterm elections

2025-12-29

US Democrats and election-law experts are voicing renewed concerns that President Donald Trump and his administration could use federal power to influence the 2026 midterm elections, after off-year races earlier this month saw few disruptions. Democrats and critics cite moves they say range from pushing congressional redistricting and targeting political groups to pursuing aggressive federal actions around voting, including a Department of Justice push for sensitive voter data from states. The White House rejects the concerns as “baseless conspiracy theories.”

Duke University cuts jobs and closes buildings amid federal funding changes

2025-12-29

Duke University expects to reduce its spending by $364 million after federal funding changes tied to the Trump administration’s higher-education agenda, according to university documents and internal presentations reported by The Chronicle. The cuts, including buyouts that reduced staff and prompted some building closures, follow proposals that would cap universities’ federally funded grant-reimbursement rates and limit certain types of research funding.

Alicia Johnson takes oath as Georgia PSC member in historic first

2025-12-29

Alicia Johnson will become the first Black woman elected to Georgia’s Public Service Commission, stepping into the statewide role Thursday after a ceremonial swearing-in Monday in Atlanta. Johnson, a Democrat, won the PSC seat in November, and she said the decisions made in the commission affect families’ monthly bills and community health.

California drops lawsuit seeking to reinstate federal high-speed rail funds

2025-12-29

California has dropped a lawsuit that sought to reinstate $4 billion in federal funding for the state’s long-delayed high-speed rail project, according to the California High-Speed Rail Authority. The authority said it will shift to other funding sources after the U.S. Transportation Department cut the money, including the agency’s plan to connect San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Dark money group spends about $5 million on attacks on Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones

2025-12-29

The biggest mystery in Georgia’s Republican governor race has emerged in the form of anonymous political spending: a group operating under the name “Georgians for Integrity” has put about $5 million into ads and mailers attacking Republican Lt. Gov. Burt Jones, according to the Associated Press. The ads accuse Jones of using his office to enrich himself, and the Jones campaign says the claims are false.

Federal investigation surge in Minnesota targets alleged Somali-run child fraud

2025-12-29

Federal investigators increased operations in Minnesota after new allegations of fraud by Somali-run day care centers, the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI said. The actions followed a video posted online by a right-wing influencer and came as state officials said regulators were reviewing the claims.

House retirements and departures set churn ahead of 2026 midterms

2025-12-29

Members of Congress in both parties have announced they will leave the House ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, either by retiring or seeking higher office. The departures include senior Democrats such as Rep. Steny Hoyer and high-profile Republicans such as Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene.

Homeland Security says it is investigating fraud in Minneapolis

2025-12-29

Federal Homeland Security officials said on Monday they are conducting a fraud investigation in Minneapolis, with DHS Secretary Kristi Noem describing the operation as targeting “childcare and other rampant fraud.” The probe follows years of investigations tied to the Feeding Our Future nonprofit, where prosecutors said defendants exploited a federally funded program intended to provide food for children.

Michigan faces $540 million in canceled climate grants as EV plans unwind

2025-12-29

Michigan has lost about $540 million in climate-related federal grants since President Donald Trump took office, according to an Atlas Public Policy database cited by Bridge Michigan. The cancellations come as auto and battery manufacturers have scaled back or halted some electric-vehicle projects and shifted investment toward gas and hybrid production.

New laws levy climate tax and sell Trump-themed license plates

2025-12-29

As 2026 begins, several U.S. states will roll out new laws that include a Hawaii tourism “Green Fee” aimed at climate impacts and a California program to sell state-labeled insulin. Other changes taking effect range from tighter Utah alcohol-identification requirements for bar and restaurant customers to new vehicle license plates in Georgia that feature “America First.”

New Orleans to get National Guard patrol for New Year’s after Bourbon Street attack

2025-12-29

New Orleans will begin a National Guard deployment Tuesday to add security for New Year’s celebrations, officials said Monday, a year after a deadly vehicle attack on Bourbon Street killed 14 people. The Guard’s presence is expected to focus on the French Quarter area and not include immigration enforcement, New Orleans police spokesperson Reese Harper said.

New York subway ends MetroCard; fully switches to OMNY tap-and-go fares

2025-12-29

New York’s subway system will stop selling or refilling MetroCards after Dec. 31, 2025, as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority transitions the system fully to OMNY, a tap-and-go payment option. Officials say more than 90% of subway and bus trips are already paid through OMNY, which riders can use by tapping a credit card, phone or other smart device.

Christian influencers fill a religious void for young adults online

2025-12-21

Millennial and Generation Z Christian influencers are drawing growing audiences across digital platforms by offering biblical guidance on dating, mental health, parenting and racial justice — filling gaps that Sunday sermons often leave unfilled. The trend comes as organized religion loses ground among young Americans: only 41% of people ages 18 to 35 surveyed in 2023 and 2024 said they believe in God with certainty, down from 65% in 2007, according to the Pew Research Center. Podcasts like "Girls Gone Bible," co-hosted by former Hollywood actors Arielle Reitsma and Angela Halili, now draw more than a million listens or streams each month and sell out live events across the country.

Pennsylvania pilot uses 'angel advocates' to recruit living kidney donors

2025-12-17

A pilot program at three Pennsylvania hospitals is testing whether volunteer strangers — dubbed "angel advocates" — can use their own social media networks to help kidney patients with limited social connections find living donors. The Great Social Experiment, founded by Los Angeles filmmaker David Krissman, launched in May 2025 with 15 patients at Temple University Hospital, UPMC-Harrisburg and Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. Early results show at least three patients have found donors across the two hospitals that have reported outcomes.

Nicaraguans in Miami sing to Virgin Mary despite crackdowns at home and in US

2025-12-09

Hundreds of Nicaraguans gathered at flower-decorated altars in Miami church parking lots Sunday evening to mark the Dec. 8 feast of the Immaculate Conception, filling streets near St. John Bosco Catholic Parish with traditional hymns to the Virgin Mary. The celebration carried particular weight this year as Nicaragua's government has intensified its crackdown on religious expression and the Trump administration has moved to curtail temporary legal protections for hundreds of thousands of Nicaraguan migrants in the United States.

Churches play AI-generated videos of slain activist Charlie Kirk

2025-09-19

Less than a week after conservative activist Charlie Kirk's assassination, evangelical churches in Texas, Arizona, and California showed their congregations AI-generated video clips of Kirk delivering messages after his death. Pastor Jack Graham of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas, introduced the clip by saying, "Hear what Charlie is saying regarding what happened to him this past week." As the artificial reconstruction of Kirk's voice urged listeners to "pick up your cross, and get back in the fight," the congregation rose to their feet in a standing ovation.

Ice cream makers covering 90% of U.S. supply pledge to drop artificial dyes by 2028

2025-07-14

About 40 ice cream and frozen dairy dessert makers representing approximately 90 percent of the U.S. supply pledged Monday to remove seven petroleum-based artificial dyes from their products by 2028, federal health officials announced. The commitment follows similar pledges in recent weeks from companies including Nestle, Kraft Heinz and General Mills, as the Trump administration presses food manufacturers to eliminate synthetic dyes over concerns about potential health effects.

EV ownership still pays off long-term despite end of federal tax credits, experts say

2025-07-03

Congress has eliminated federal tax incentives for electric vehicles, ending a $7,500 credit on new EVs and up to $4,000 on used ones before a Sept. 30 deadline for qualifying purchases. Even without the credits, transportation researchers and consumer advocates say electric vehicles remain financially and environmentally superior over the life of the car for buyers who can afford the higher sticker price.

Minneapolis church adds free acupuncture and Reiki to its migrant ministry

2025-05-02

A Minneapolis Lutheran church has added free monthly acupuncture, Reiki, and cupping therapy sessions to its migrant ministry, offering them in the sanctuary itself to help a largely Latino congregation cope with anxiety and stress that intensified federal immigration enforcement has spread through migrant communities. St. Paul's-San Pablo Lutheran Church launched the program in March 2025, opening it to all congregants, including people in the United States without legal status and U.S.-born citizens in mixed-status families.

Workers and unions push for the right to sit down on the job

2025-02-20

Retail workers and labor unions across the United States are pushing employers and legislatures to guarantee workers the right to sit down during work, citing documented health risks from prolonged standing. The effort spans contract negotiations at major retailers and new local and state laws, reflecting a shift in how worker advocates frame occupational safety.