2025-04-09 06:03:04.929

The US government implemented sweeping reciprocal tariffs, impacting approximately 90 countries. A staggering 104% levy was imposed on Chinese imports, in response to China's 34% retaliatory tariffs on US goods. This followed Trump's initial 34% import fee and a previous 20% duty, totaling a 104% tariff on Chinese imports. The White House defended the move, stating that the president "punches back harder" when America is challenged. Other countries also faced significant tariffs: 17% (Israel), 20% (EU), 24% (Japan), and 25% (South Korea). These rates, calculated by the Council of Economic Advisers, are based on US trade deficits. The administration reported significant interest from foreign leaders seeking to negotiate lower rates. Trump claimed daily tariff revenue of almost $2 billion and expressed openness to "tailored deals." However, the tariffs have negatively impacted Wall Street, with the S&P 500 experiencing its largest two-day loss since March 2020 and the Nasdaq entering a bear market. The tariffs will remain in effect until the president deems the trade deficit threat resolved.

2025-04-07 00:00:47.941

A man in New York City attacked four underage girls, at least some of them relatives, with a meat cleaver, police say. Video shows officers carrying the alleged attacker out of the building, face down, after they shot him. The NYPD responded to a call from an 11-year-old girl who reported that her uncle had stabbed her and her siblings. Officers found the man holding a blood-covered meat cleaver in an apartment with blood-splattered walls and floors. Despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, the man allegedly advanced on officers, leading them to shoot him. The man is in critical condition. Four girls, aged 16, 13, 11, and 8, were taken to the hospital but are expected to recover. A fifth child, a young boy, was unharmed and let officers into the building. Photos released by the NYPD show the bloody meat cleaver and another large kitchen knife.

2025-04-06 18:05:45.948

CNBC host and market commentator Jim Cramer issued a stark warning: America could face another "Black Monday" market crash, echoing the devastating 1987 collapse, if President Trump doesn't revise his tariff strategy. Cramer pointed to the 22.6% single-day Dow Jones Industrial Average plunge in 1987 as a potential precedent, given the recent two-day sell-off following Trump's sweeping tariffs on nearly 90 countries. He stated that if Trump doesn't compromise and reward countries and companies that abide by the rules, a similar scenario could unfold, potentially culminating in a significant market drop by Monday. The recent tariffs triggered a brutal two-day sell-off, resulting in a 3,910-point Dow plunge—the worst since the pandemic—and a total market loss of $6.6 trillion. Experts like Apollo chief economist Torsten Slok even warned of a potential recession if the tariffs persist. Despite these warnings, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent affirmed the administration's commitment to its current course, downplaying recession fears and emphasizing long-term economic goals. Cramer, initially supportive of Trump's tariffs, indicated he would withdraw his support if Monday brings a negative market outcome, and would become furious if Europe retaliates against American tech companies.

2025-04-06 12:02:46.854

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and self-proclaimed richest man, expressed his hope for a "zero-tariff situation" between Europe and the United States. This statement comes in response to President Trump's recent imposition of 20% tariffs on goods from the European Union. Musk's comments, made during an interview with Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, directly contrast with the Trump administration's trade policies. He criticized Peter Navarro, the administration's senior counselor for trade and manufacturing, who supports the tariffs. Musk's own company, Tesla, has experienced a significant drop in sales, with a 49% decrease in Europe during the first two months of the quarter and a 7% decline in Italy compared to the same period last year. Italy's Economy Minister, Giancarlo Giorgetti, stated that Italy aims for a "de-escalation" in tariff disputes with the United States. Italy experienced a trade surplus with the US of approximately €39 billion in 2024, and its economy grew by only 0.5% in 2024 compared to 2023.

2025-04-06 06:00:41.442

Another round of torrential rain and flash flooding hit parts of the South and Midwest on Saturday, April 5, 2025, following days of severe storms and deadly tornadoes. Forecasters warned of rising rivers for days to come. Floodwaters inundated homes and vehicles, causing widespread damage and at least 16 weather-related deaths (10 in Tennessee alone). Two deaths occurred in Kentucky—a 9-year-old boy and a 74-year-old whose body was found in a submerged vehicle—and a 5-year-old died in a weather-related incident in Little Rock, Arkansas. Tornadoes earlier in the week destroyed neighborhoods and caused at least seven deaths. The flooding impacted interstate commerce, potentially causing shipping and supply chain delays in Louisville and Memphis. Louisville's Ohio River rose 5 feet in 24 hours. Flash flood emergencies and tornado warnings continued across Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Hundreds of Kentucky roads were impassable. A mandatory evacuation was ordered for Falmouth, Kentucky. In Arkansas, a railroad bridge washed out, causing a derailment. Over a foot of rain fell in parts of Kentucky, and over 8 inches in parts of Arkansas and Missouri. The severe weather was attributed to warm temperatures, an unstable atmosphere, strong wind shear, and abundant moisture from the Gulf. Dozens of people sought shelter in Dyersburg, Tennessee, a city recently hit by a tornado.

2025-04-06 06:00:41.438

NEW YORK (AP) — Nintendo’s Switch 2 is bigger and better than its predecessor of eight years past as the video game developer pushes to bring its brand into “a new era” where social experiences are at the forefront. The Associated Press and other members of the media got an exclusive look this week at Nintendo’s latest handheld, TV-console hybrid, which dives head-first into the social world of online gaming. The Switch 2 will hit the market June 5 at a price of $449.99. “You’ll be joining us as we step into a new era of Nintendo,” Doug Bowser, Nintendo of America’s president, told those in attendance before they scattered to test out the new Switch. Video and audio chats and game-sharing functions are huge parts of the new console. One of the Switch 2’s Joy-Cons — it’s controllers — even has a “C” button to quickly access “GameChat.” Click the button and up pops window views to others players’ gameplay, lined up at the bottom of the user’s screen in squares like a video conference call. A camera attachment — sold separately — allows gamers to project themselves into those windows instead of sharing their own screen, while some games let the camera-user appear in the game itself. A microphone is now built into the console for audio. Another feature, “GameShare,” allows users to share the game they are playing temporarily with other consoles that don’t have it. And then there’s a function to control the console’s Joy-Cons like a computer mouse — an appeal toward the growing PC-based gaming audience — something developers are excited for people to try. The media demo area had a station to test out the mouse function on a wheelchair basketball game. Players used both Joy-Con “mice” for that one. Using both at the same time was a gaming experience unlike many, or any. This particular station had a smooth pad that the Joy-Cons slid around on seamlessly. Another station without the pad worked just fine on a hard desk surface — that one was a world-building game with less precision required. The first game played was Mario Kart World — included in the console’s bundle package. That was in handheld mode. The 7.9 inch LCD screen is bigger and it feels it. Next to a last generation Switch OLED Model, there’s a stark difference. The handheld graphics were obviously better in 1080p. In the docked mode, Nintendo says the system is able to support 4K resolution for compatible games. It wasn’t immediately clear if the docked games that were demoed were compatible, but the graphics looked better than the first-generation Switch. Especially in Hogwarts Legacy. Wow. The Joy-Con controllers, which are now magnets that click into place, are upgrades from the slide-into-place mechanism in first-gen. The new Mario Kart World featured a thrilling Knockout Tour mode that pits 24 players against each other in a race where the field is culled at five checkpoints until one racer remains. Among the wishes from Switch fans was an increased battery life. Developers weren’t able to promise that, mainly because they said battery life depends on the environment and conditions the console is operating in. The Switch 2 does uses more energy. But they did say it has a larger battery to compensate for that. The Switch 2 will cost $150 more than its predecessor at launch. In addition to Mario Kart World, two more Switch 2 exclusives feature its marquee characters: Donkey Kong Bananza, a 3D adventure with the big ape punching his way through a huge underground world, arriving July 17, and Kirby Air Riders, a racing game from the director of the Super Smash Bros. series, due later in the year. The new console will be backwards compatible — able to play physical and digital Switch games — but not every game from the predecessor console will have that capability. Also, users will need to purchase a microSD express memory card for the Switch 2. The Nintendo Direct on Wednesday revealed that normal microSD cards will not be compatible with the system.

2025-04-02 06:00:18.594

Actor Val Kilmer, known for roles in "Top Gun" and "The Doors," passed away due to pneumonia, following a battle with throat cancer. Meanwhile, Demetria Spencer, aka Demi Blanco, was arrested for making a false 911 call related to rapper Young Scooter's death, which was later ruled accidental. Senator Cory Booker broke a record for the longest Senate speech. Jason Kelce and his wife welcomed their fourth daughter. Morgan Wallen is selling merch with his "Get Me To God's Country" catchphrase. Erik Per Sullivan, of "Malcolm in the Middle," was spotted after a long hiatus. Rep. Lauren Boebert confused Oliver Stone with Roger Stone during a hearing about JFK's assassination. Jennifer Garner and Judy Greer enjoyed a Parisian getaway. Mark Cuevas denied cheating allegations. Erica Durance is dating again after her divorce. Antonella Barba was arrested for violating her supervised release. A lawsuit accuses Diddy of sexual assault and human trafficking, with Jay-Z, Beyoncé, LeBron James, and Gloria Estefan named as witnesses (all deny involvement). Drake's "Nokia" video is speculated to be a jab at Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl performance. The baseball from the final out of the 2024 World Series is up for auction. WWE legend Mick Foley was in a serious car accident.

2025-03-30 18:06:15.944

Morgan Wallen, the 31-year-old country singer, is facing backlash after abruptly leaving the "Saturday Night Live" stage before the show ended. During the closing credits, Wallen whispered to host Mikey Madison, hugged her, and walked off without explanation. He later posted a photo of a private plane on Instagram with the caption "Get me to God's country." Fans criticized his actions on social media, calling him a "petty loser" and questioning his professionalism. However, a source close to Wallen told TMZ that his exit was unintentional, claiming he followed the same exit route used during rehearsals. Wallen's past controversies, including being disinvited from SNL in 2020 for violating COVID-19 protocols and a 2021 scandal involving a racial slur, add to the ongoing discussion surrounding his behavior. This incident follows Wallen's previous appearance on SNL in December 2020, two months after he was initially disinvited for violating COVID-19 protocols. In 2021, he was also involved in a controversy surrounding the use of a racial slur.

2025-03-30 06:07:18.249

The Lawrence brothers, Joey, Matthew, and Andrew, famous for their successful careers in the entertainment industry, recently revealed a shocking secret: Lawrence isn't their real last name! Born as Mignogna, they adopted the stage name Lawrence in the 80s due to pronunciation difficulties. Now, they regret the decision, citing significant issues with travel and identity verification. Matthew explains the nightmare of having two names, especially internationally, while Andrew highlights the constant need to prove their identity. Joey reflects that the decision may not have been made in today's more inclusive climate. However, their parents' wisdom in using a stage name is also acknowledged, as it provided a layer of protection from overly zealous fans before the internet age. Despite the current challenges, the brothers' individual successes are highlighted, including Joey's roles in "Diff'rent Strokes," "Blossom," and "Brotherly Love," Matthew's appearances in "Mrs. Doubtfire" and "Boy Meets World," and Andrew's voice acting in "Recess" and role in "Hawaii Five-0."

2025-03-29 18:00:58.512

In Uganda's Mbale district, plastic bags, known locally as "buveera," are polluting farmland, impacting coffee production. This problem, long prevalent in Kampala, is now reaching remote areas. Farmers are concerned about the effects on their land. Globally, plastics are increasingly found in farm fields, exacerbated by climate change. Microplastics, often smaller than five millimeters, are altering ecosystems and entering the human food chain, raising concerns about health impacts. A UN report highlights soils as major receptors of agricultural plastics, potentially more polluted than oceans. Experts emphasize the need for major engineering solutions due to the scale of the problem. Microplastics originate from various sources, including agricultural plastics, clothing, medications, and beauty products, sometimes found in fertilizer. While agriculture accounts for only a small percentage of global plastic use, packaging contributes significantly. Studies show microplastics can be absorbed by plants and enter the food chain, raising concerns about long-term health effects. Climate change is worsening the issue by increasing reliance on plastics for crop protection and increasing the breakdown and transport of plastic particles. A recent study showed microplastics can impact plant photosynthesis. Despite a global treaty on plastic pollution being negotiated, solutions are hampered by a lack of political will and the difficulty in tracking plastic waste. Companies are attempting to improve recycling, but challenges remain. Researchers are exploring solutions like biochar filtration to remove microplastics from waterways. However, even farmers who care about soil health often lack resources to address the problem. The situation is particularly challenging for small farmers in developing countries who are most vulnerable to climate change's effects.

2025-03-29 12:00:47.854

Diddy's trial hinges on jury selection, with experts emphasizing the importance of open-minded jurors. Meanwhile, Jake Paul's engagement receives advice from Canelo Alvarez. A poll explores public opinion on various topics, including the Diddy trial and Trump's potential wedding invitation to Bezos and Sanchez. Rapper Young Scooter dies suddenly on his birthday, while "Breaking Amish" star Mama Mary Schmucker passes away after a cancer battle. Pastor John Gray III comments on Marvin Sapp's controversial church donation request. March's hottest celebrity photos are showcased, and Sexyy Red receives a lavish gift. Elizabeth Olsen's photos are compared for subtle differences. Sean Kingston and his mother are convicted in a federal wire fraud case. Kim Sae-ron's family accuses Kim Soo-hyun of grooming. Linda Hogan and Brooke Hogan are engaged in a bitter public feud. Ben Affleck tests out new motorcycles, and Drew Taggart faces an uninvited guest at his home. Resorts World Casino in Las Vegas is fined for money laundering.

2025-03-28 06:00:43.498

King Charles III was briefly hospitalized for observation on Thursday after experiencing “temporary side effects’’ related to a scheduled cancer treatment, Buckingham Palace announced. His engagements for Thursday afternoon and Friday were canceled. The palace stated that the King has returned to Clarence House and Friday's engagements will be rescheduled. Charles, 76, announced a cancer diagnosis early last year, leading to a three-month hiatus from public duties. His illness comes as his daughter-in-law, Kate, Princess of Wales, also battles cancer. The King's health is under scrutiny as he navigates the demands of his role, balancing ceremonial duties with the pressures of a modern monarchy.

2025-03-27 00:05:23.504

President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on all cars imported to the United States, set to take effect on April 2. This action is a significant escalation of global trade tensions, prompting strong reactions from Canada and other countries. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called it a "direct attack" violating the USMCA agreement. The tariffs caused shares of major US automakers to plummet. The UAW expressed support for the tariffs but also highlighted other needs for the working class. Meanwhile, a controversy erupted over leaked Signal messages from a group chat among top Trump administration officials, which inadvertently included a journalist from The Atlantic. The messages revealed sensitive information about US military operations, prompting an investigation by the Senate Armed Services Committee. Trump and his administration downplayed the incident, calling it a "witch hunt." The Social Security Administration delayed the rollout of a controversial anti-fraud measure following public outcry. The administration also addressed the Signal chat controversy, with Trump claiming that National Security Advisor Mike Waltz was responsible for the inclusion of the journalist in the chat and that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth was not involved. Trump also discussed a potential deal to keep TikTok accessible in the US, and hinted at reciprocal tariffs that may be surprisingly lenient.

2025-03-26 18:05:46.922

President Trump’s cabinet officials leaked classified information about impending US airstrikes against Houthi terrorists in Yemen via a Signal group chat that accidentally included Atlantic magazine editor Jeffrey Goldberg. The leaked information, which included minute-by-minute details of the operation, weapons used, and targeting methods, was deemed "really scary" and "floored" by national security experts. The chat included Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, who both shared highly sensitive information, including a battle damage assessment. Experts say the information disclosed could have caused significant damage to national security. Waltz has taken "full responsibility," while Hegseth claims no classified information was shared. The incident has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about cybersecurity practices within the highest levels of the US government. The timeline of events, according to Goldberg, is as follows: March 11th, Waltz reached out; March 13th, Goldberg was added to the group; March 15th, the attack plan was revealed. The incident has raised questions about the potential harm caused by the leak and the possible motivations behind Goldberg’s inclusion in the chat. Experts point out that even seemingly innocuous information about troop movements can be classified and compromise national security. The White House maintains that no classified information was discussed, but Goldberg insists the information was sensitive and could have been used to harm American personnel.

2025-03-26 00:03:22.114

The death of 14-year-old Miller Gardner, son of former New York Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner, is under investigation in Costa Rica. Initial reports suggested asphyxiation due to possible food poisoning, but Costa Rican authorities have since ruled out asphyxiation as the cause of death. The Gardner family fell ill after a dinner at a hotel in Manuel Antonio, experiencing stomach discomfort. Miller was found deceased in his hotel room Friday morning. Authorities are reviewing security footage, interviewing hotel staff, and awaiting toxicology results to determine if food poisoning was the cause of death. The family has left Costa Rica. Brett and Jessica Gardner described their son as beloved and full of life.

2025-03-20 12:03:44.563

Deshaun Watson's recent engagement to longtime girlfriend Jilly Anais could be a game-changer, not just for his personal life, but potentially for his NFL career and financial prospects. Former NFL player Nate Burleson shared that Watson's newfound stability could lead to improved performance on the field and increased endorsement deals. Watson has faced significant disappointment since joining the Cleveland Browns in 2022, playing only 17 games despite a $230 million contract and various off-field controversies. Burleson suggests marriage could change how brands perceive Watson, opening doors to lucrative partnerships. Watson himself seems enthusiastic about his future, sharing injury rehab footage on Instagram, hinting at his determination to prove Burleson's prediction correct.

2025-03-18 06:03:11.073

During a Knicks game on March 17, 2025, celebrity superfan Tracy Morgan experienced a medical episode that involved vomiting at his courtside seat. The incident caused a brief delay in the game as Morgan was helped from his seat in a wheelchair while arena staff cleaned the area. Photos and videos circulating on social media showed Morgan hunched over, visibly ill, and later being escorted out. Reports suggested he was bleeding from the nose and had difficulty standing. While the exact cause is unclear, Morgan has a history of health issues, including diabetes, alcohol struggles, a kidney transplant, and injuries from a 2014 car accident. MSG issued a statement wishing him well, and Knicks player Josh Hart also expressed concern. Morgan, a longtime Knicks fan, has openly discussed his unwavering support for the team.

2025-03-18 06:03:11.058

US astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams are set to return to Earth on Tuesday after spending nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Their journey home aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon capsule, "Freedom," follows unexpected delays. Initially slated for a 10-day mission, mechanical issues with their original Boeing Starliner capsule left them stranded last June. The incident impacted Boeing's spaceflight program and necessitated a SpaceX rescue mission. Wilmore and Williams had to wait for a ride back with fellow astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov on Crew 9, after the arrival of Crew 10. Elon Musk alleged that plans to return Wilmore and Williams earlier were blocked by the Biden administration, a claim denied by officials. Their extended stay will place them sixth on NASA's single spaceflight duration list, behind Peggy Whitson. Frank Rubio currently holds the record at 371 days.

2025-03-17 12:01:20.639

Ma Yang, a 37-year-old Hmong American woman and mother of five, was deported from Milwaukee to Laos—a country she has never been to—in February. She is currently being held in a rooming house, surrounded by military guards, and lacks access to her necessary insulin and blood pressure medication. She doesn't speak the language and is without any documents. Yang pleaded guilty to marijuana-related charges, believing it wouldn't affect her legal residency, a claim later proven incorrect by her attorney. She served over two years in prison and was subsequently transferred to an ICE facility in Minnesota. There, she signed a document allowing her departure, under the impression she wouldn't be deported, as Laos typically refuses deportees. However, she was deported despite her attorney's and her own belief that her case would be re-opened due to poor legal representation. Her deportation occurred amidst the Trump administration's increased deportation efforts and attempts to utilize the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, an attempt which was temporarily blocked by a court order. The Independent has reached out to ICE for comment.

2025-03-16 18:05:34.506

Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney credits the federal government for assisting in the crackdown on MS-13 on Long Island. He highlights the gang's three main rules: no cooperation with police, no disrespect from outsiders, and execution of rival gang members on sight. Tierney emphasizes that MS-13's prestige is built on violence and murder, unlike other gangs like Tren de Aragua, which focus more on economic crimes. He cites several high-profile cases, including the sentencing of "Little Devil" to 50 years for multiple murders and the conviction of Alexi Saenz for the deaths of two teenage girls. The article also mentions the discovery of severed heads in Babylon park potentially linked to MS-13. While other migrant gangs like Tren de Aragua operate in the area, their focus on drug and human trafficking differs from MS-13's emphasis on violence. Both gangs were designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the Trump administration.

2025-03-16 18:05:34.499

A federal judge issued a 14-day restraining order against President Trump's use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The judge, James Boasberg, ordered any planes carrying these individuals to return to the US. This action followed an emergency hearing prompted by a lawsuit from the ACLU and Democracy Forward. Despite the order, some deportations had already taken place, with Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele showcasing over 250 gang members sent to El Salvador. Rep. Brandon Gill announced plans to impeach Judge Boasberg, receiving support from Elon Musk. Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act, citing a national security threat from Tren de Aragua, previously designated as a terrorist organization. The act grants the president wartime powers to expel citizens of enemy countries. The Trump administration appealed the judge's order to the DC Circuit Court of Appeals.

2025-03-12 06:01:03.458

Authorities in Virginia have identified a 24-year-old man, Joshua Ribe, as a person of interest in the disappearance of University of Pittsburgh student Sudiksha Konanki in the Dominican Republic. Konanki, a 20-year-old pre-med student, vanished from the Riu Republic Resort in Punta Cana on March 6th while on spring break. Ribe, from Iowa, has been interviewed extensively but hasn't been accused of any wrongdoing. The Loudoun County Sheriff's office is working with the FBI and Dominican National Police. Surveillance footage shows Konanki and Ribe walking toward the beach around 4:15 a.m. Ribe gave conflicting accounts of what happened after they were alone on the beach, including claims of vomiting, passing out, and seeing Konanki walking along the shore before he lost consciousness. Dominican police haven't confirmed foul play but are re-interviewing Konanki's travel companions and hotel staff. Konanki's father suspects kidnapping, as her body hasn't been found. The investigation is being led by a high-level commission of local and US agencies, including the FBI.

2025-03-10 06:01:17.127

Maegan Hall, a former La Vergne Police Department officer, has settled a federal lawsuit against the city for $500,000. The settlement comes after a scandal involving Hall's sexual encounters with several male officers at the station. An internal investigation revealed multiple affairs, including a threesome and a 'Girls Gone Wild'-themed party. Hall claimed she was groomed by the men and initially sued the city, department, and several supervisors. While she spoke about the events in a March 2023 interview, she has since remained silent. Chief Burrell Davis was also fired due to his knowledge and involvement in the scandal. Hall, now a pharmacy technician, lives with her husband in their $275,000 home, though it is unclear if they are still together.

2025-03-09 00:00:51.412

Gene Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, died from a hantavirus infection, officials in New Mexico announced Friday. Hantavirus, found throughout the world, is spread by contact with rodents or their urine or feces. It does not spread between people. There is no specific treatment or cure, but early medical attention can increase the chance of survival. An infection can rapidly progress and become life-threatening. "It really starts like the flu: body aches, feeling poorly overall," said Dr. Sonja Bartolome of UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. "Early in the illness, you really may not be able to tell the difference between hantavirus and having the flu." The virus can cause a severe and sometimes deadly lung infection called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The agency began tracking the virus after a 1993 outbreak in the Four Corners region — the area where Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah meet. An astute physician with the Indian Health Service first noticed a pattern of deaths among young patients, said Dr. Michelle Harkins, a pulmonologist with the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center who for years has been studying the disease and helping patients. "They were healthy, they had no medical problems and they were coming in with a cardiopulmonary arrest," she said, prompting the CDC’s involvement as experts worked to determine what the patients had in common. The majority of U.S. cases since then have been in western states, especially the southwest. Between 1993 and 2022, there were 864 reported U.S. cases. New Mexico had the highest number over that time, at 122, followed by Colorado at 119. There were seven cases confirmed in 2023 and another seven in 2024, according to the New Mexico Department of Health. As for deaths, the state has reported 52 between 1975 and 2023. The CDC has offered to test samples involved in Arakawa’s case to learn more about the strain of virus that infected her and to perform pathology testing. Symptoms start one to eight weeks after exposure and initially can include fatigue, fever and muscle aches, according to the CDC. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include coughing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest as the lungs fill with fluid. About a third of people who develop respiratory symptoms from the disease can die, the CDC says. Despite years of research, Harkins said many questions have yet to be answered, including why it can be mild for some people and very severe for others and how antibodies are developed. She and other researchers have been following patients over long periods of time in hopes of finding a treatment. "A lot of mysteries," she said, noting that what researchers do know is that mouse exposure is a key. The best way to avoid the germ is to minimize contact with rodents and their droppings. Use protective gloves and a bleach solution for cleaning up rodent droppings. Public health experts caution against sweeping or vacuuming which can cause virus to get into the air.

2025-03-08 12:00:40.983

Sam Bankman-Fried, serving a 25-year sentence for crypto fraud, gave an interview to Tucker Carlson discussing his time in prison. A point of interest was his relationship with Sean "Diddy" Combs, also incarcerated in the same Brooklyn detention center. Bankman-Fried described Combs as kind and said he's been kind to him. He noted the soul-crushing nature of prison and the focus on those around him rather than his former life. While Carlson called them two of the world's most famous prisoners, Bankman-Fried declined to acknowledge Diddy's recent birthday. Bankman-Fried described prison as a "weird environment," a mix of high-profile individuals and alleged ex-gangsters, many surprisingly skilled at chess. He also revealed a shift in his political stance, moving from a Biden donor to privately donating to Republicans, citing disappointment with the Biden administration. Regarding crypto regulation, he expressed hope that a change in leadership would help, but noted the slow pace of change within federal bureaucracies. Finally, he addressed his former wealth, stating that while FTX theoretically had enough assets to repay everyone, bankruptcy prevented this.

2025-03-08 06:00:48.363

Sam Bankman-Fried, serving a 25-year sentence for crypto fraud, gave an interview to Tucker Carlson discussing his time in a Brooklyn detention center. A point of interest was his relationship with Sean "Diddy" Combs, also incarcerated there. Bankman-Fried described Diddy as "kind" and said that prison is a "soul-crushing place." He also revealed that he has made friends with other inmates, including some "ex-gangsters" who are surprisingly good at chess. Bankman-Fried's political views have shifted since his conviction; he now donates to Republicans, having previously supported Democrats. He criticized the Biden administration's actions regarding crypto regulation. He also discussed the downfall of FTX, stating that there was theoretically enough money to repay everyone, but the bankruptcy proceedings prevented this. His once $15 billion net worth is now gone, with an $11 billion forfeiture order.

2025-03-06 00:00:43.157

Powerful storms caused significant damage and loss of life across the United States. Three people died in Mississippi due to severe weather, with one fatality caused by a falling power line, another by a tree falling on a car, and a third by a falling tree limb. In Oklahoma, storms ripped roofs from buildings. Tornado warnings were issued in several states, including the Carolinas, Florida, and Virginia, with an EF1 tornado confirmed in North Carolina causing structural damage and power outages. Texas experienced high winds and dry vegetation fueling wildfires, resulting in at least 20 homes and structures burning in San Patricio County. Blizzard conditions hit eastern Nebraska, with heavy snow and high winds causing road closures and numerous crashes. Parts of Minnesota and Iowa also experienced a powerful winter storm, leading to significant snowfall and numerous accidents. In South Carolina, high winds hampered wildfire fighting efforts. Thousands were left without power across several states, and hundreds of flights were canceled. The storm system, which initially hit Oklahoma, is moving eastward, bringing the threat of tornadoes to the Carolinas and other areas. Forecasters warned of a Pacific storm expected to bring widespread rain and mountain snow to the West Coast.

2025-03-05 00:06:31.237

The conservative Supreme Court sided with liberal San Francisco in a 5-4 decision, limiting the Environmental Protection Agency's authority to regulate sewage discharge into the Pacific Ocean. The court found that the EPA's vague requirements were overly broad and difficult for cities to comply with. Justice Samuel Alito, writing for the majority, argued that the EPA has sufficient tools to regulate water quality without such ambiguous limitations. Dissenting justices, including Amy Coney Barrett, countered that this decision could hinder the EPA's ability to enforce water quality standards. The case highlighted an unusual alliance between San Francisco and polluters, who shared concerns about the EPA's vaguely defined requirements. The ruling has significant implications for cities across the country, potentially impacting how they manage sewage and comply with environmental regulations.

2025-03-04 22:26:58.83

President Donald Trump's surprise 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods have ignited a fierce trade battle with Canada. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded angrily, calling the move "a very dumb thing to do" and announcing retaliatory tariffs of his own. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted over 670 points, adding to Monday's losses, reflecting growing concerns about a potential recession. Trump mocked Trudeau, referring to him as the "governor" of Canada and threatening further action. Meanwhile, Democrats in the House are planning protests during Trump's upcoming joint address to Congress, expressing outrage at his actions and the state of the economy. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggests a possible compromise is in the works, hinting at a "middle ground" solution between the US, Canada, and Mexico. The situation remains tense, with global markets reacting negatively to the escalating trade conflict.

2025-03-02 18:28:07.885

Vice President JD Vance's family ski trip to Vermont's Sugarbush Resort took an unexpected turn when hundreds of pro-Ukraine protesters swarmed the resort. The protests, fueled by a recent heated exchange between Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House, forced the Vance family to cut their trip short and relocate to an undisclosed location. Protesters, carrying signs calling Vance a "traitor" and a "national disgrace," lined the streets for half a mile. While counter-protesters also appeared, the intensity of the demonstration led to the Vances abandoning their plans and leaving the resort. The protests, initially planned to address broader concerns about the Trump administration's policies, intensified after the White House dispute, where Vance criticized Zelensky for not expressing sufficient gratitude for US aid. Vermont Governor Phil Scott had earlier urged protesters to be respectful of the Vance family's vacation.

2025-03-02 18:25:35.278

Seasoned diplomatic observers believe that President Trump's public confrontation with Ukrainian President Zelensky was a calculated move to discredit Zelensky and pave the way for closer ties with Russia. Moscow reacted enthusiastically, anticipating accelerated talks and potentially lucrative economic deals with the US. Secret talks between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, excluding Ukraine, have already taken place, with plans for a second round. Discussions reportedly include energy deals and US investment in the Nord Stream 2 pipeline. The Kremlin's economic envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, envisions broad cooperation, including joint scientific projects. While lucrative business opportunities with Russia are a clear draw for President Trump, this alliance risks alienating America's traditional allies and fundamentally resetting US-Russia relations. The Kremlin itself has acknowledged the rapid shift in US foreign policy, which largely aligns with Russia's vision. The motives behind Trump's pivot remain speculative, with theories ranging from a belief in Russia as a natural US ally against China to less substantiated claims of undue influence. The US-Russia relationship appears to be entering a radical new phase.

2025-03-02 12:05:26.93

Volodymyr Zelensky's meeting with Donald Trump ended disastrously, but the blame lies not solely with Trump. Before meeting Trump, Zelensky met with anti-Trump Democrats who advised him to reject a proposed mineral deal. This deal, involving a US-Ukraine partnership to mine rare earth minerals, was intended as a first step towards a ceasefire, with proceeds helping Ukraine's reconstruction. Zelensky, having twice previously promised to sign the deal, ultimately rejected it, prioritizing a security guarantee from the US which was never part of the deal's terms. This rejection, according to the article, was a grave mistake that alienated Trump, jeopardized crucial US support, and ultimately benefited Putin. The author argues that Zelensky's actions, driven by partisan advice, were a betrayal of his countrymen, leaving Ukraine without the military and diplomatic protection only America can offer. The author criticizes Democrats for celebrating Zelensky's failure and using the incident to further their anti-Trump narrative. They accuse the Democrats of prioritizing political gain over a realistic solution to the conflict in Ukraine. The author concludes by emphasizing Zelensky's misjudgment in rejecting Trump's offer, highlighting the lack of realistic alternatives to securing Ukraine's future.

2025-02-28 00:07:37.069

Gene Hackman, the legendary actor, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their New Mexico home, sparking a mysterious investigation. Arakawa, 64, was discovered in the bathroom, showing signs of decomposition and mummification, with scattered pills nearby. Hackman, 95, was found in a separate room, and authorities believe he may have suffered a sudden fall. Their German Shepherd was also found dead, while two other dogs survived. While carbon monoxide poisoning was initially suspected, investigators found no evidence of a gas leak. Maintenance workers hadn't seen the couple for approximately two weeks, finding the front door ajar. The police investigation is ongoing, and the cause of death remains undetermined.

2025-02-27 08:04:09.835

The Trump administration announced the elimination of more than 90% of the U.S. Agency for International Development's (USAID) foreign aid contracts, amounting to $60 billion in overall U.S. assistance cuts worldwide. This significantly reduces U.S. development and humanitarian aid abroad, leaving few USAID projects for advocates to fight to save in ongoing court battles. The administration detailed these cuts in an internal memo and court filings, revealing the scale of its retreat from decades of U.S. policy that foreign aid bolsters U.S. interests. The memo cited "clearing significant waste stemming from decades of institutional drift" as justification, aiming to "use taxpayer dollars wisely to advance American interests." President Trump and Elon Musk, advocating for a smaller federal government, have been key drivers of these cuts, viewing USAID projects as advancing a liberal agenda. A 90-day review of foreign assistance programs led to a funding freeze, halting thousands of programs and impacting USAID staff through forced leave and firings. Successful programs combating Ebola, HIV/AIDS, saving over 20 million lives in Africa, have been affected. Nonprofits owed billions in contract payments described the contract terminations as rapid and without meaningful review. A USAID official email mentioned "MANY more terminations coming." Senator Chris Murphy criticized the administration's actions as attempting to circumvent Congress and courts. The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition expressed concern about the impact on counterterror, global health, food security, and competition. The State Department said Secretary Marco Rubio reviewed the terminations. Specifically, 5,800 of 6,200 multiyear USAID contract awards ($54 billion) and 4,100 of 9,100 State Department grants ($4.4 billion) were eliminated. The administration initially delayed payments, but began processing millions of dollars in back payments after a court order. However, the Supreme Court temporarily blocked the order to unfreeze billions of dollars in aid.

2025-02-27 08:04:09.83

NEW YORK (AP) — Michelle Trachtenberg, a former child star who appeared in the 1996 “Harriet the Spy” hit movie and went on to co-star in two buzzy millennial-era TV shows — “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl” — has died. She was 39. Police responded to a 911 call shortly after 8 a.m. at a 51-story luxury apartment tower in Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood where officers found Trachtenberg “unconscious and unresponsive,” according to an NYPD statement. Paramedics pronounced her dead at the scene. No foul play was suspected and the New York Medical Examiner is investigating the cause of death, police said. “The family requests privacy for their loss,” Trachtenberg’s representative, Gary Mantoosh, said in a statement Wednesday. Trachtenberg was 8 when she began playing Nona Mecklenberg on Nickelodeon’s “The Adventures of Pete & Pete” from 1994 to 1996 and then starred in the title role in the film adaptations of “Harriet the Spy” and “Inspector Gadget,” opposite Matthew Broderick. “Michelle comes off as genuine because she really is a genuine kid. Everyone can identify with her,” said Debby Beece, president of Nickelodeon Movies in 1996. In 2000 Trachtenberg joined the cast of “Buffy,” playing Dawn Summers, the younger sister of the title character played by Sarah Michelle Gellar between 2000 and 2003. Trachtenberg thanked Gellar for speaking out against Joss Whedon in 2021, following abuse allegations made against the “Buffy” showrunner. “I am brave enough now as a 35-year-old woman to repost this,” she wrote on social media, and alluded to “his not appropriate behavior” she experienced as a teenage actor. In 2001, she received a Daytime Emmy nomination for hosting Discovery’s “Truth or Scare.” Trachtenberg went on to recurring roles on “Six Feet Under,” “Weeds” and “Gossip Girl,” where she played the gang’s scheming nemesis, Georgina Sparks. For her fan-favorite role, she was nominated as a TV villain at the Teen Choice Award in 2012. “It’s definitely a lot more fun than playing the good girl,” she told Seventeen in 2009. I love the reaction you get. I never understood why some actors don’t want to play villains or evil characters.” She was one of the original series’ stars to return for a pair of guest appearances in the 2021 “Gossip Girl” revival. Blake Lively on Instagram on Tuesday honored her “Gossip Girl” co-star: “The world lost a deeply sensitive and good person in Michelle. May her work and her huge heart be remembered by those who were lucky enough to experience her fire.” As if to cement herself in millennial culture, Trachtenberg made a cameo in Fall Out Boy’s music video for the “This Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race” alongside Seth Green. Hollywood took to social media to mourn one of their own, one who had made the transition from kid star to teen queen to adult actor. “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” co-star David Boreanaz said on Instagram it was “so very sad.. horrible news.” Melissa Gilbert, who starred with Trachtenberg in the 1996 film “A Holiday for Love,” wrote on Instagram: “My heart aches for your family and all those who loved you so.” Rosie O’Donnell, who starred alongside Trachtenberg in her “Harriet the Spy” debut, said her death was “heartbreaking:” “I loved her very much. She struggled the last few years. I wish I could have helped.” Glee star Chris Colfer remembered her this way: “Michelle was the absolute sweetest and one of the most supportive people I knew,” he wrote. Trachtenberg’s later credits included “Ice Princess” in 2005, playing a math prodigy and aspiring figure skater. The AP said it had “a good, though feeble, heart and the best of intentions” and said Trachtenberg was “mining the same nervous twitter from her kid-sister days on ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer.’” The New York City-born Trachtenberg also appeared in the 2004 teen sex comedy “EuroTrip,” she co-starred with Zac Efron and Leslie Mann in 2009’s “17 Again” and played a murderous stalker and abductor on an episode of “Criminal Minds.” For “Killing Kennedy,” the 2013 film in which she played the wife of Lee Harvey Oswald, around 80% of Trachtenberg’s dialogue was in Russian. She had learned the language from her mother growing up. Other credits included supporting roles in the films “Mysterious Skin” in 2004 and “Black Christmas” in 2006. She also starred on the NBC medical series “Mercy” (2009–2010) opposite Taylor Schilling. More recently, she hosted the true-crime docuseries “Meet, Marry, Murder” on Tubi. ___ Associated Press Writer Michael R. Sisak contributed to this report.

2025-02-27 07:45:51.667

ROME (AP) — Pope Francis has shown further slight improvement as he battles double pneumonia, but doctors said Wednesday his prognosis is still guarded. A chest CT scan taken Tuesday evening showed the “normal evolution” of an infection as it is being treated, the Vatican said in its late update. The 88-year-old pope, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, is still receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen but hasn’t had any more respiratory crises since Saturday. Blood tests, which had shown some low platelet counts and anemia, have confirmed an improvement and the slight kidney insufficiency detected a few days ago has receded, the statement said. Francis is continuing to receive respiratory physiotherapy, the statement said. It was the first time the Vatican has confirmed Francis was receiving physiotherapy to help him expel fluid from his lungs. A complex lung infection has kept the 88-year-old pope hospitalized in critical condition since Feb. 14. Francis has chronic lung disease and was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital after a bout of bronchitis worsened. While doctors didn’t repeat that he was in critical condition in Wednesday’s update, as they have in recent days, they said his prognosis remained guarded, meaning he wasn’t out of danger. The pope resumed work in the afternoon from his hospital room, after receiving the Eucharist in the morning. And in a sign the Holy See machinery was grinding on, the Vatican announced he had appointed four new bishops and approved the creation of a new fundraising initiative to encourage donations to the Holy See, which has been enduring a financial crisis for years. Francis likely approved the bishop appointments awhile back and the new norms for the fundraising entity were approved Feb. 11, before he was hospitalized. But the announcements made them official and suggested Francis was still very much in charge and governing. Pilgrims descend on the hospital to be closer to Francis. If he were to look out the hospital window from the 10th floor, he might see that a steady stream of well-wishers are lighting candles and leaving him balloons and get-well cards at the statue of St. John Paul II near the Gemelli entrance. It has become something of a makeshift pilgrimage destination, especially for church groups in town for the Vatican’s Holy Year. On Wednesday, Bishop Gerardo Villalonga from Menorca, Spain led a group of 50 pilgrims to the site, saying they wanted to be as close to him as possible. “Because when a family has someone who is sick it is very important that they are surrounded, it is necessary that everyone is near to them, and all the people of God are close the pope,” he said. At dusk, trumpeter Felice Carella and singer Davide Capuano serenaded the pope with a rendition of Schubert’s Ave Maria under his window. “For me this is not a simple song, this is a big prayer for the pope so that he will better,” Capuano said. “These are terrible days and I hope the whole world can pray together with us.” Cardinal Re picked to lead prayer vigil on Wednesday. The dean of the College of Cardinals, meanwhile, was designated to lead the Vatican’s prayer vigil in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday night, thrusting a key figure in a future possible conclave into the spotlight. Francis recently extended the term of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, 91, keeping him in the important job rather than naming someone new. As is now popularly known thanks to the Oscar-nominated film “Conclave,” the dean is a key point of reference for cardinals. He presides over a papal funeral and organizes the conclave to elect a new pope. From 2000-2010, Re was prefect of the Vatican’s congregation for bishops, one of the most powerful and influential positions in the Holy See. Francis made him dean in 2020 and confirmed him in the job in January despite the expiration of his five-year term. The faithful from Francis’ homeland, meanwhile, gathered in the Argentine church of Rome for a special Mass presided over by Cardinal Baldassarre Reina, the pope’s vicar for Rome. Reina also celebrated the lunchtime Mass on Wednesday at Gemelli to pray for Francis. Sister Nilda Trejo, an Argentine nun, said that she knew Francis’ health has always been delicate, with problems breathing and speaking loudly, and that’s why she always prayed for him. “We knew that he often found it difficult,” she said. “In fact, you see that at the beginning of Mass, the microphone always has to be turned up because he has a bit of trouble. But he always spoke to the people. To the heart of the people.”

2025-02-27 07:39:56.332

A school-aged child in West Texas has died from measles, the first measles death in the US since 2015. The unvaccinated child, hospitalized in Lubbock, Texas, is one of 124 confirmed cases in a growing outbreak. Most cases involve children aged 5-17, all unvaccinated or of unknown vaccination status. Eighteen people have been hospitalized, primarily for respiratory issues related to measles pneumonia, not quarantine as initially stated by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The outbreak began in Gaines County and has spread to eight other counties. Low vaccination rates, particularly in Gaines County where nearly 1 in 5 kindergartners lacked the MMR vaccine, are contributing factors. Experts warn that the outbreak could continue for months due to the highly contagious nature of measles and low vaccination rates across West Texas. Free vaccination clinics have been established in Lubbock, but experts fear further spread and the potential for outbreaks of other vaccine-preventable diseases.

2025-02-27 07:39:34.536

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her role in Gossip Girl, has tragically passed away at the age of 39. Her mother discovered her unresponsive in her Manhattan apartment Wednesday morning. Law enforcement sources state that Michelle was found lying on her back in bed. While she had recently undergone a liver transplant and experienced complications with her liver and thyroid, she had been active in the days leading up to her death, even going out with friends just last Thursday. Michelle had publicly defended her appearance in recent months, stating she was 'happy and healthy' despite her health challenges. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

2025-02-27 07:39:33.22

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg was found dead in her Manhattan apartment Wednesday morning. Her mother, Lana, discovered her unresponsive in bed. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene. Trachtenberg, 39, had recently undergone a liver transplant, and it is suspected that complications from the transplant may have contributed to her death. Despite health concerns, Trachtenberg had been active in recent days, even going out with friends just days before her death. She had publicly defended her appearance online, stating she was 'happy and healthy'. The family has requested privacy.

2025-02-27 05:15:30.149

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg was found dead in her Manhattan apartment Wednesday morning. Her mother, Lana, discovered her unresponsive in bed. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene. Trachtenberg, 39, had recently undergone a liver transplant, and sources suggest complications from the transplant, potentially organ rejection, may have contributed to her death. Despite health challenges, Trachtenberg had maintained an active social life and defended her appearance online in recent months. The family has requested privacy.