2025-04-07 18:00:20.868

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s attendance at the Texas funeral of an unvaccinated child who died from measles has ignited controversy. Following the funeral, Kennedy lauded two physicians, Richard Bartlett and Ben Edwards, who have unorthodox approaches to treating measles, including the use of vitamins and cod liver oil. Bartlett has a history of disciplinary action by the Texas Medical Board for inappropriate medication use, and both he and Edwards advocate for treatments not widely accepted by the medical community. Kennedy's promotion of these practitioners, while simultaneously advocating for the MMR vaccine, has drawn criticism for its mixed messaging. The measles outbreak, which has claimed at least three lives, underscores the ongoing debate surrounding vaccine safety and efficacy, further fueled by Kennedy's long-standing questioning of vaccine safety. The high vaccine exemption rate in the affected area highlights the complex factors contributing to the outbreak.

2025-04-06 18:05:45.951

Elon Musk has seemingly broken from the Trump administration's tariff policies, expressing his desire for a "zero tariff situation" between the US and Europe. This comes after President Trump announced sweeping tariffs on numerous trading partners, causing an $11 billion drop in Musk's net worth. Musk criticized trade advisor Peter Navarro, even resorting to personal attacks on Twitter. Navarro responded by suggesting Musk was simply protecting his business interests, given Tesla's reliance on international supply chains. Musk further elaborated on his stance during a video conference in Italy, reiterating his hope for a free trade zone between Europe and North America. He also mentioned advising President Trump on this matter. Meanwhile, Italy's economy minister urged de-escalation, while Musk's Tesla faces challenges in Europe due to political backlash and competition from China. Musk's position reflects a shift towards traditional conservative market values, contrasting with the Trump administration's protectionist approach. The new tariffs caused significant stock market losses.

2025-04-05 18:00:12.683

President Trump's sweeping new tariff plan, unveiled on "Liberation Day," has triggered a historic two-day drop in the stock market, wiping out $6 trillion. The Dow plummeted over 2,200 points on Friday alone. This has led to widespread panic among investors and fears of a recession. Simultaneously, over 1,200 "Hands Off" demonstrations erupted across the country, protesting the Trump administration's actions, which include mass layoffs, contract cuts, deportations, and funding cuts for various programs. High-profile figures like Rep. Jamie Raskin and Sen. Ted Cruz have voiced strong criticism, with Raskin calling Trump an "economy-crushing dictator" and Cruz warning of potential political consequences for the Republican party if the tariffs backfire. Even within the Republican party, there's dissent, with Rep. Don Bacon planning to introduce a House bill to restore Congressional authority over tariffs. Internationally, leaders like Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron are coordinating responses, expressing concerns about the global economic and security implications. The article also highlights the impact on individual retirement funds (401Ks), leaving many Americans worried about their financial future. Despite the turmoil, Trump maintains his stance, claiming big business is not worried and the tariffs will ultimately boost the economy.

2025-04-05 00:05:22.25

Jonathan Braun, 41, a convicted drug dealer who received a presidential pardon from Donald Trump, has been sent back to jail. Following his release, Braun was involved in multiple violent incidents, including injuring a three-year-old child, groping his nanny, assaulting a man at a Shabbat dinner, menacing a synagogue congregant, and assaulting a hospital nurse. These actions violated the terms of his supervised release. Prosecutors detailed Braun's erratic behavior and cited several instances of violence. Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto, citing concerns about the repeated violent acts, denied Braun bail. Braun, who had previously served less than three years of a 10-year sentence for running a large-scale marijuana distribution ring, was arrested by U.S. Marshals at a Long Island hotel. He had also been involved in running sketchy finance firms with extremely high-interest rates and had previously been arrested for evading tolls. Braun faces the possibility of years in prison for violating his release terms and will have a hearing on April 10th to argue for bail.

2025-04-03 12:00:13.208

President Donald Trump announced sweeping new tariffs on goods from nearly all countries, a move he dubbed "Liberation Day." The announcement caused immediate and significant drops in global markets, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 futures plunging over three percent. Tech giants like Apple and Tesla saw even steeper declines in after-hours trading. The tariffs, ranging from a baseline 10 percent to much higher rates for countries deemed "worst offenders" (including China), are set to take effect within days. This action has been met with strong opposition, including a Senate resolution opposing tariffs against Canada, passed with support from four Republican senators. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio attempted to downplay concerns about the impact of these tariffs on America's role in NATO. Despite the market turmoil, Trump expressed confidence in the long-term economic benefits of his policies, pointing to increased investment from companies like Apple.

2025-04-02 18:01:53.841

Dangerous storms are moving across the central US, placing nearly 5 million people under tornado watches in parts of Arkansas, Illinois, and Missouri. A level 5 of 5 risk for long-lived, EF3-plus tornadoes is in effect, marking a rare and significant threat. The storms are also expected to trigger multiple days of heavy rain, leading to "generational" flooding in Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, and Mississippi. Climate change is exacerbating the risk of extreme rainfall. Damage reports include overturned trains, downed power lines, and numerous structures destroyed in Missouri towns such as Nevada, Moundville, and Pilot Grove. While no fatalities have been reported in Vernon County, Missouri, significant damage is evident. A radar-confirmed tornado hit Pilot Grove, causing structural damage to homes and vehicles. Another tornado in Owasso, Oklahoma, downed trees and damaged homes. The National Weather Service issued dire warnings for Arkansas, emphasizing the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and long-lived EF3 or stronger tornadoes. Kentucky's governor declared a state of emergency, anticipating four days of severe weather, including widespread flooding. The Mississippi Valley faces a high risk of historic rain and floods, with a level 4 of 4 high risk of flooding rainfall in effect for parts of Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Illinois. Forecasters predict 2 to 6 inches of rain daily in some areas, with potential totals exceeding 15 inches by Saturday. The Storm Prediction Center and Nadocast (a machine learning model) both highlight the high risk, but Nadocast's predictions should be viewed cautiously. The speed of the storms is also a concern, giving residents minimal time to seek shelter.

2025-03-31 00:00:37.895

A devastating ice storm slammed Michigan and Wisconsin, leaving over 400,000 people without power on Sunday. High winds brought down trees and power lines, turning churches, schools, and fire halls into makeshift warming centers. The damage is expected to take until Monday to fully repair, especially in rural areas. One county reported nearly all 13,200 residents without power, with trees continuing to fall. Meanwhile, Tennessee braced for severe weather, with potential 70mph winds, tornadoes, and hail up to 2 inches in diameter. Despite the arrival of spring, the situation remains dire in the affected areas, with residents resorting to creative solutions to stay warm and safe. In other news, firefighters in South Carolina reported progress in controlling wildfires in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with rain offering some relief.

2025-03-28 00:02:36.116

Yolanda Saldivar, Selena Quintanilla's killer, was denied parole due to the violent nature of her crime. Kanye West and Andrew Tate recorded a podcast together, which is mentioned in a lawsuit against Tate. Holly Madison confirmed her breakup with Zak Bagans. Amazon is offering deals on landscaping tools. Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly welcomed a baby. Gerry Turner turned down an offer to join "Bachelor in Paradise." Linda Hogan spoke about her strained relationship with her daughter Brooke. Paul Pogba celebrated his birthday with a star-studded party. Bri Stern filed a lawsuit against Andrew Tate for sexual assault. Haliey Welch's SEC investigation into her meme coin is over. North West's rap career might be influenced by Kim Kardashian and FKA twigs. Stephen A. Smith apologized for a mistake about LeBron James. Bhad Bhabie celebrated her birthday. Gene Hackman and his wife's bodies remain unclaimed. JoJo Siwa is facing backlash for her VIP tour experience. A top model is featured in a guess-who game.

2025-03-20 00:03:09.79

A Department of Defense webpage describing baseball and civil rights icon Jackie Robinson’s military service was restored Wednesday after it was missing earlier in the day. This followed the removal of pages honoring a Black Medal of Honor winner and Japanese American service members—the Pentagon attributed this to a mistake—as part of the department’s campaign to eliminate content highlighting the contributions of women and minority groups, which the Trump administration considers "DEI". The page on Robinson, detailing his Army service during World War II, was temporarily inaccessible, with the letters "dei" added to the URL. David Robinson, Jackie Robinson's son, expressed surprise and pride in his father's service. The page reappeared later, with Pentagon press secretary John Ullyot stating that while the department is pleased with the removal of DEI content, mistakes happen and are corrected. Thousands of pages honoring contributions by women and minority groups have been removed as part of this effort. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell defended the practice. A Defense Department webpage honoring Black Medal of Honor recipient Army Maj. Gen. Charles Calvin Rogers was also temporarily removed but restored. Ullyot emphasized that the department salutes all service members for their patriotism, not through the lens of race, ethnicity, or sex, and referred to DEI as "Discriminatory Equity Ideology", a form of "woke cultural Marxism" that allegedly divides the force and interferes with the warfighting mission.

2025-03-18 18:02:10.075

A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas ended violently early Tuesday morning as Israel conducted what it called "extensive strikes" on Hamas targets in Gaza. This action resulted in the deaths of over 400 people and injuries to hundreds more, according to Gaza's Health Ministry, marking the deadliest day in Gaza since November 7, 2023. Hamas accused Israel of breaking the nearly two-month-old ceasefire agreement and jeopardizing the lives of hostages held in Gaza. Israel countered by accusing Hamas of repeatedly refusing to release hostages and rejecting mediation offers. Following the attacks, far-right Israeli politician Itamar Ben Gvir announced his return to the government. Numerous European countries condemned Israel's actions, urging both sides to uphold the ceasefire agreement and prioritize diplomacy. The United States, having been informed beforehand, stated that Hamas bears sole responsibility for the renewed hostilities, citing their refusal of multiple mediation proposals. Families of hostages held by Hamas also protested the renewed attacks, fearing for the safety of their loved ones. The Israeli government, however, asserts that the strikes are a necessary step to pressure Hamas into releasing the hostages and that the military campaign will continue. Arab nations, including Egypt, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, strongly condemned Israel's actions, accusing them of violating the ceasefire and escalating regional tensions. The situation remains highly volatile, with a significant loss of life and widespread international condemnation.

2025-03-18 06:03:11.067

The parents of Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student missing in the Dominican Republic, have formally requested authorities declare their daughter dead. Their request comes despite the fact that Konanki's body has not been found. The family sent a letter to Dominican authorities stating they believe there was no foul play involved in her disappearance from a Punta Cana beach on March 6. They cited the cooperation of Joshua Riibe, the last person to see Konanki alive, with investigators. Riibe, a 22-year-old college student from Iowa, has been described as a person of interest but has not been charged with any wrongdoing. His lawyer is seeking his release from police surveillance, arguing that his passport has been seized despite him not being officially charged. Authorities initially suspected Konanki drowned, but later said they were not ruling out foul play. Riibe claims he and Konanki entered the ocean together, encountered rough water, and separated. He said he awoke on the beach without Konanki. Surveillance footage shows the pair together at a bar before her disappearance.

2025-03-17 06:02:50.373

Tom Cruise and Ana de Armas are sparking more dating rumors after being photographed together in London. The two stars were seen casually dressed in jeans and sneakers after exiting a helicopter at London Heliport. While they weren't seen talking, both had big smiles. This sighting follows a previous encounter at the same heliport the night before, and a Valentine's Day dinner date. Although they could simply be friends or future collaborators, fans are speculating about a romantic relationship. Representatives for both actors have not yet commented.

2025-03-11 00:05:45.942

Yankees ace Gerrit Cole will require Tommy John surgery, prematurely ending his 2024 season. The team announced the decision on Monday, following a second opinion from Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles. ElAttrache will perform the surgery on Tuesday. Cole's elbow issues began last year with a diagnosis of elbow nerve inflammation and edema. This year, after only two spring training starts, the pain returned and worsened, prompting the decision for surgery. Cole is owed $144 million over the remaining four years of his contract.

2025-03-10 12:05:25.635

Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old University of Pittsburgh student from Chantilly, Virginia, vanished from the Riu Republica Resort in Punta Cana. She was last seen around 4:50 a.m. on Thursday, March 6th, wearing a distinctive brown bikini. Authorities, including the Indian Embassy, Loudoun County officials, and Dominican Republic agencies, are involved in the extensive search, utilizing drones, helicopters, and ground crews. Konanki was on spring break with five friends. The University of Pittsburgh is offering support to her family. Authorities are exploring the possibility that she drowned.

2025-03-09 18:00:59.012

Sudiksha Konanki, a 20-year-old student from Virginia, went missing in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, while on spring break with classmates. She was last seen around 4:50 a.m. on Thursday walking on the beach near the Riu Republica Resort wearing a brown bikini and distinctive jewelry. Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office was contacted on Thursday evening and is working with authorities in the Dominican Republic. A search, involving Defensa Civil, a Dominican Republic search and rescue force, began on Saturday and continued into Sunday. The University of Pittsburgh is also supporting the family and cooperating with authorities. Konanki is described as 5 feet, 3 inches tall with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office.

2025-03-09 00:00:51.438

International Women’s Day saw widespread protests across Europe, Africa, South America, and beyond, with women demanding an end to inequality and gender-based violence. In Istanbul, Turkey, a large rally in Kadikoy featured speeches, dancing, and singing, despite a significant police presence. Protesters challenged the Turkish government's declaration of 2025 as the "Year of the Family," arguing against the confinement of women's roles to marriage and motherhood. The government has faced criticism for restrictions on women's rights and insufficient action against violence, including withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention in 2021. One Turkish woman, Yaz Gulgun, highlighted the societal pressures women face. Across Europe, women protested violence, demanding better healthcare access, equal pay, and an end to discriminatory treatment. In Poland, activists opened an abortion pill center across from parliament, symbolically challenging restrictive abortion laws. From Athens to Madrid, Paris, Munich, Zurich, and Belgrade, women marched against being treated as second-class citizens. In Madrid, protests highlighted the case of Gisele Pélicot, symbolizing the fight against sexual violence. North Macedonia saw thousands marching for economic, political, and social equality, highlighting the low property ownership rates among women. In Nigeria, thousands gathered in Lagos, celebrating womanhood. Russia's celebrations had a more official tone. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier urged stronger efforts for equality and warned against the rollback of progress, citing the example of tech companies prioritizing "masculine energy." South American marches focused on protesting femicides, with demonstrations in Ecuador and Bolivia demanding justice and an end to impunity in such cases.

2025-03-08 06:00:48.367

President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order establishing a White House task force for the 2026 World Cup that will oversee preparations for the high-profile tournament. The task force, first reported by OutKick, will be chaired by Trump. Vice President JD Vance will serve as vice chair and an executive director, to be named later, will run day-to-day operations. The task force will coordinate with federal agencies to plan and execute the massive job of hosting both the 2025 Club World Cup and the World Cup a year later, the draft fact sheet outlines. More than 8 million international visitors are expected to come to the US for the monthlong tournament that kicks off in June 2026. Trump said he does plan to attend some matches. Trump was president in 2018 when the US won the bid to co-host the tournament with Canada and Mexico and views bringing the expanded 48-team soccer showcase to the US as a significant accomplishment. He at times has had a replica of the World Cup trophy displayed behind his desk in the Oval Office. He said the current tensions with Mexico and Canada will “make it more exciting.” The president signed the executive order on Friday, a day after CNN reported that travel executives were concerned over the nation’s preparedness to host the quadrennial tournament. US Travel Association president and CEO Geoff Freeman and MGM Resorts International president and CEO William Hornbuckle previously told CNN Sport they questioned whether the US travel system is prepared to handle the influx of foreign travelers expected in next summer’s soccer extravaganza. The worries are numerous: Lengthy wait times for fan visa approvals could discourage thousands from trying to come to the US for the tournament. Outdated technology and staffing shortages could lead to long waits for visitors who arrive in the US to clear customs. Long lines to get through security could potentially snake all the way outside of airports. One of the things, they said, that the federal government could do to start readying was form an interagency task force inside the Trump White House to streamline the preparation process among federal agencies. Freeman and Hornbuckle said that while they believe Trump takes the task of successfully hosting the tournament seriously, his administration has not yet shown the urgency they’d like. One of the main things they’d like to see is an interagency task force set up by the White House to coordinate planning for the World Cup across the sprawling federal government. However, on Friday, Freeman “applauded” the establishment of the task force, calling it a “critical action” that will “ensure a seamless and secure experience” for all visitors. The administration, according to the draft fact sheet, is kicking the readiness into high gear. The draft fact sheet suggests that hosting the World Cup is an opportunity to unite the nation and reinforce the United States’ role as a top destination for major world sporting events. Joining the president for the announcement was FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who said the tournament would create around 200,000 jobs and have an economic impact of around $40 billion. An estimated eight million foreign travelers are expected to come to the US for the tournament, which kicks off in June 2026.

2025-03-08 00:01:04.231

D’Wayne Wiggins, singer and guitarist for the popular R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, has died after a battle with cancer, his family announced on the group’s verified social media Friday. He was 64. “With broken hearts, we share with you that our beloved D’Wayne passed away this morning surrounded by family and loved ones,” their statement read. “Over the past year, he has been privately and courageously battling bladder cancer. Through this fight, he remained committed and present for his family, his music, his fans and his community.” CNN has reached out to representatives for Wiggins and Tony! Toni! Toné! for comment. Wiggins was one of the co-founders of the group, which included his half-brother, Raphael Saadiq, on bass and vocals and cousin, Timothy Christian Riley, on drums/keyboards. Tony! Toni! Toné! formed in their native Oakland, California, in 1986. They released their debut single, “One Night Stand,” the following year. Their album “Who?” and their hit single “Little Walter” debuted in 1988. They became some of the stars of the New Jack Swing music movement of the ’80s and ‘90s. Their hits, including “Feels Good,” “Whatever You Want,” “Anniversary,” “It Never Rains (in Southern California)” and “Just Me and You” are now classics. The three singers eventually broke off to pursue solo projects, but managed to stay close in ways that have escaped many other groups like them. “There’s nothing like being at home and being on stage together is like being at home in our living room,” Wiggins told CNN in 2023, when the group came back together to tour after 25 years. “Timing is everything.” He told CNN they learned from artists like Earth Wind and Fire to hone their craft with time. “It’s about building a brand,” Wiggins said at the time. “Not many R&B or even in hip-hop artists understand that, but we do.” His family reflected on his accomplishments in their statement. “D’Wayne’s life was incomparable, and his music and service impacted millions around the world, including in his hometown of Oakland, California,” they wrote. “He was a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, mentor and founding member of Tony! Toni! Tone! He was deeply passionate about providing artist development and mentorship to emerging young musicians, helping to shape the early careers of many.” The note ended with the Wiggins family requesting privacy. “We mourn with you, and are deeply grateful for your love and support,” they added. The announcement of his death came days after a post which stated that Wiggins was “experiencing medical complications.”

2025-03-04 22:36:21.956

Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon will oversee the layoff of 3% to 5% of the firm's workforce, amounting to over 1,395 job cuts. This is part of the bank's annual talent management process, but follows smaller reductions in September. While the bank plans to hire new employees later in the year, those laid off received poor reviews or smaller bonuses. Solomon, who received a 26% pay raise to $39 million in 2024, has focused on improving efficiency and refocusing the bank's business. The layoffs come as Goldman Sachs reported record profits of $14 billion in 2024. Solomon has also been navigating the firm's rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion policies amid potential lawsuits. The timing of the layoffs also coincides with uncertainty surrounding Trump's economic policies, including tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China, which Solomon described as an attempt to 'level the playing field'. Despite the layoffs, Goldman Sachs' stock price has surged in the past year.

2025-03-04 12:00:59.917

President Donald Trump will address a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night, marking his first such address of his second term. While resembling a State of the Union address in format and live television coverage, it's officially titled a 'joint address to Congress'. This tradition originated with President Reagan's first term. The Constitution mandates presidential updates to Congress on policies, though the timing isn't specified. Historically, these addresses occur in January or February, reviewing the past year and outlining future policy. Initially known as the "President’s Annual Message to Congress," President Franklin D. Roosevelt renamed it the "Annual Message to Congress on the State of the Union" in 1934. Presidents Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush also delivered similar addresses in their first years, with varying titles reflecting their policy focuses. These first-year speeches carry the same weight as subsequent State of the Union addresses, and are followed by a televised response from the opposing party. This year, Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan will deliver the response.

2025-03-04 00:01:21.428

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Adrien Brody took home his second leading man Oscar for “The Brutalist,” Mikey Madison took home the best actress statuette and “Anora” was crowned best picture on its way to five awards Sunday. Kieran Culkin won the Oscar for best supporting actor for his work on “A Real Pain” and Zoe Saldaña won for her work in “Emilia Pérez.” Sean Baker had a stunning night, winning the screenplay, director and editing awards for “Anora.” “Flow” beat “The Wild Robot” for best animated feature film while Paul Tazewell became the first Black man to win an Oscar for costume design for his work on “Wicked”. Here’s the complete list of winners at the 97th annual Academy Awards: Best picture “Anora” Best Actor Adrien Brody, “The Brutalist” Best Actress Mikey Madison, “Anora” Director Sean Baker, “Anora” Best Supporting Actress Zoe Saldaña, “Emilia Pérez” Best Supporting Actor Kieran Culkin, “A Real Pain” International Film “I’m Still Here” Documentary Feature “No Other Land” Original Screenplay “Anora,” Sean Baker Adapted Screenplay “Conclave,” Peter Straughan Original Score “The Brutalist,” Daniel Blumberg Original Song “El Mal” from “Emilia Pérez” Animated Film “Flow” Visual Effects “Dune: Part Two” Costume Design “Wicked,” Paul Tazewell Cinematography “The Brutalist,” Lol Crawley Documentary Short Film “The Only Girl in the Orchestra” Best Sound “Dune: Part Two” Production Design “Wicked” Makeup and Hairstyling “The Substance” Film Editing “Anora,” Sean Baker Live Action Short Film “I’m Not a Robot” Animated Short Film “In the Shadow of the Cypress”

2025-03-04 00:01:21.408

A power outage at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) caused significant flight delays and other disruptions Monday morning. The outage, impacting areas of the main terminal and an adjacent parking garage, was reported around 7:40 a.m. and attributed to a downed power line near the airport by Baltimore Gas and Electric Company spokesperson Stephanie Weaver. Over 150 flights were delayed, and dozens canceled, according to flight tracking websites. While power was fully restored around noon, airport officials advised passengers to check with their airlines for flight status updates and anticipate long lines at ticket counters, checkpoints, and concessions. Inbound flights were diverted, and some airlines used air stairs for deplaning passengers during the outage.

2025-03-03 12:00:38.195

The Academy Awards in memoriam segment left out Michelle Trachtenberg, causing a social media uproar. Despite tributes to stars like Gene Hackman, Maggie Smith, James Earl Jones, and David Lynch, Trachtenberg's passing went unacknowledged. Meanwhile, the Oscars red carpet showcased stunning looks from Demi Moore, Selena Gomez, Miley Cyrus, Timothée Chalamet, Ben Stiller, and Jeff Goldblum. Diane Warren tied the record for most Oscars losses without a win, while Conan O'Brien's monologue included jokes about Karla Sofía Gascón's tweets. Halle Berry and Adrien Brody recreated their famous 2003 Oscars kiss, and Kylie Jenner supported Timothée Chalamet. Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner enjoyed a paintball outing, and Kourtney Kardashian denied rumors about her son. David Krumholtz discussed his experience with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome after smoking marijuana, and Michelle Manziel was arrested for DWI. The article also features images of Terann Hilow.

2025-03-02 18:02:47.708

President Donald Trump's second term is off to a tumultuous start, marked by a tense Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump and Vice President JD Vance sharply criticized Zelensky, causing a diplomatic rift with European leaders who are holding an emergency summit in London to show support for Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is pursuing a domestic agenda that includes shaking up the federal workforce with new weekly reporting requirements, and increasing border security measures. Democrats are struggling to formulate a cohesive response to Trump's actions, with some calling for stronger pushback. The proposed US-Ukraine mineral deal is off the table, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, following Zelensky's request for security guarantees. There is a sharp divide in opinion, with some Republicans supporting Trump's approach, while others, like Senator Chris Van Hollen, express regret over confirming Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Concerns are rising about the potential for tariffs on Mexico and Canada, impacting trade relations. A CBS/YouGov poll reveals that while Trump's overall approval rating is 51%, public support for his handling of the Ukraine situation is low. European leaders, feeling sidelined by Trump's outreach to Russia, are rallying around Zelensky. Various officials offer differing perspectives on the situation, with Trump's national security adviser, Mike Waltz, suggesting a need for new leadership in Ukraine. The situation is further complicated by conflicting opinions on the best way forward, with some advocating for peace negotiations while others emphasize the need for continued support for Ukraine. Trump's upcoming address to Congress is expected to highlight his accomplishments and future plans, while Democrats are planning their counter-strategy. The incident involving Vice President Vance and Zelensky in the Oval Office is viewed as a deliberate provocation by some, further exacerbating the situation. A CNN poll shows that the American public's view of Trump's presidency is more negative than positive. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is working with other European leaders on a plan to present to the US to stop the fighting, emphasizing the need for a lasting peace. Amidst the chaos, the Trump administration continues to demand weekly reports from federal employees, causing confusion and mixed responses from different agencies.

2025-02-28 06:05:21.136

The Department of Justice released a trove of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, including his contact list, flight logs, and evidence. The roughly 200-page release included names like Mick Jagger, Michael Jackson, Alec Baldwin, and members of the Kennedy and Trump families. However, most names were already known, leading to disappointment. Attorney General Pam Bondi claims the FBI is withholding thousands of pages of documents, demanding their release. The released documents also included a redacted list of masseuses and Epstein's flight logs. Two copies of Epstein's "little black book" have already been made public, containing hundreds of names. Critics, including Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, expressed disappointment and demanded more information. Bondi has given the FBI a deadline to release the remaining documents, while FBI director Kash Patel vowed transparency. Epstein's "little black book" from the 90s, containing names like President Trump and others, surfaced years later and is now up for auction.

2025-02-28 00:07:37.084

Gene Hackman, the acclaimed actor, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were discovered dead in their Santa Fe home, along with one of their dogs. Authorities described the scene as suspicious, noting Arakawa's body showed signs of decomposition and mummification. Hackman's body exhibited similar signs of death. While the home's door was ajar, there was no sign of forced entry or theft. A space heater was found near Arakawa, and the possibility of a fall is being investigated. Initial reports ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning. The cause of death is pending a medical examiner's report. Hackman's daughters released a statement expressing their devastation at the loss of their father and grandfather. The investigation is ongoing, with the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Department and New Mexico Gas Co. involved.

2025-02-27 08:06:13.039

Nvidia announced a phenomenal fourth-quarter profit and sales surge, driven by the soaring demand for its Blackwell chips, crucial for powering artificial intelligence systems. For the three months ending January 26th, the company reported a revenue of $39.3 billion—a 12% increase from the previous quarter and a staggering 78% year-over-year growth. Adjusted earnings reached 89 cents per share, exceeding Wall Street's projections of 85 cents per share and $38.1 billion in revenue. Net income hit $22.06 billion, surpassing analyst predictions of $19.57 billion. Nvidia's CEO, Jensen Huang, attributed this success to the "amazing" demand for Blackwell chips, highlighting the increasing importance of compute power in enhancing AI model intelligence. Data center sales, a major revenue contributor for Nvidia, saw a remarkable 93% year-over-year growth, reaching $35.6 billion in the fourth quarter. This growth aligns with President Trump's initiative to invest $500 billion in AI infrastructure through the Stargate project, a joint venture involving OpenAI, Oracle, SoftBank, and Nvidia. Nvidia's CFO, Colette Kress, revealed that fourth-quarter Blackwell sales exceeded expectations, reaching $11 billion—the fastest product ramp in the company's history. Large cloud service providers accounted for approximately 50% of data center revenue. Nvidia's market capitalization has skyrocketed to over $3 trillion, making it the second-largest company on Wall Street. This growth has significantly contributed to the recent record highs of the S&P 500, despite concerns about inflation and potential economic challenges. While acknowledging uncertainty regarding the impact of potential tariffs, Nvidia remains committed to complying with export controls and tariff regulations. The company also addressed the recent emergence of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI company, acknowledging its advancements while emphasizing the export compliance of the technology used. Huang expressed optimism about the future of AI, anticipating a "next wave" encompassing agentic AI, physical AI, and sovereign AI. Nvidia's central role in this development was highlighted, promising continued growth and innovation.

2025-02-27 07:45:51.663

Nvidia announced a phenomenal fourth quarter, with revenue reaching $39.3 billion—a 12% increase from the previous quarter and a staggering 78% year-over-year growth. This success is largely attributed to the massive demand for their Blackwell chips, crucial for powering artificial intelligence systems. Adjusted earnings per share reached 89 cents, exceeding analysts' predictions of 85 cents and $38.1 billion in revenue. Data center sales were a major contributor, reaching $35.6 billion—a 93% increase year-over-year. Nvidia's CEO, Jensen Huang, highlighted the 'amazing' demand for Blackwell chips, stating that AI is advancing at 'light speed'. The company forecasts continued growth, projecting $43 billion in revenue for the first quarter of fiscal 2026. This success is partly fueled by a joint venture with OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank, focusing on AI infrastructure development. Despite some concerns about tariffs, Nvidia remains optimistic. The company also addressed the impact of DeepSeek's new AI model, acknowledging its significance while highlighting the continued strong demand for Nvidia's chips. Nvidia's market capitalization has surged to over $3 trillion, solidifying its position as a major player in the AI boom and significantly impacting the overall stock market.

2025-02-27 07:45:51.657

Jeff Bezos, owner of The Washington Post, announced a major shift in the newspaper's opinion section, narrowing its focus to solely defending personal liberties and free markets. This decision led to the resignation of opinion editor David Shipley, who was unwilling to lead the change. Bezos justified the move by arguing that the internet now covers a broader range of opinions and that this new focus is underserved in the current media landscape. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising it as a modernization while others criticize it as a move to appease Donald Trump and align with his supporters, potentially influenced by fears of retaliation against Bezos' other business interests. Critics point to this as an example of the dangers of billionaire media ownership. The change follows other recent controversies at the Post, including the decision not to endorse a presidential candidate and the resignation of several key staff members. The shift in editorial focus is immediately visible on the Post's website, with opinion pieces now primarily centered around the two chosen pillars.

2025-02-27 07:45:51.645

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 07:43:04.462

Pope Francis has shown slight improvement in his battle against double pneumonia, but his prognosis remains guarded. A CT scan revealed the infection is evolving normally under treatment. The 88-year-old pontiff, who had part of a lung removed in his youth, is receiving high-flow oxygen but hasn't experienced respiratory crises since Saturday. Blood test results indicate improvement in platelet counts and anemia, and kidney insufficiency has receded. He continues respiratory physiotherapy. While the Vatican hasn't explicitly stated he's in critical condition, the prognosis remains guarded. Despite his illness, Francis resumed work from his hospital room, appointing new bishops and approving a new fundraising initiative. Pilgrims gather outside the hospital to offer support. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, led a prayer vigil, highlighting his importance in a potential future conclave. Masses were held in Argentina and at the hospital for the Pope's recovery.

2025-02-27 07:39:49.26

Khloe Kardashian recently shared an embarrassing yet oddly impressive story about her mother, Kris Jenner's, dating advice. Khloe recounted a moment where Kris, in front of Khloe's friends, bluntly asked if she'd given a male basketball player oral sex, suggesting it as the reason for his lack of communication. Khloe was mortified, but also impressed by her mom's direct approach. This isn't the first time Kris has offered unconventional dating advice; Khloe previously revealed Kris encouraged her to send nude photos to men she was interested in. Kris Jenner's dating wisdom is certainly...unique.

2025-02-27 07:39:49.257

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her role in Gossip Girl, 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 had recently undergone a liver transplant, and sources suggest complications from the transplant, possibly organ rejection, may have contributed to her death. Despite health issues, Trachtenberg had maintained an active social life and defended her appearance online in recent months. She was 39 years old. The family has requested privacy.

2025-02-27 07:39:38.266

Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in "Gossip Girl" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," has died. Her mother discovered her unresponsive in her Manhattan apartment. Law enforcement sources suggest her death may be related to complications from a liver transplant she received within the last year. Trachtenberg was reportedly active and out with friends just days before her passing. Tributes have poured in from fellow actors and co-stars, remembering her vibrant personality and talent. Other news includes Khloe Kardashian discussing advice from her mother, Loni Love commenting on MSNBC's personnel decisions, Kanye West clarifying his involvement in a Bhad Bhabie track, Jay Leno responding to Monica Lewinsky's comments, Brianna LaPaglia discussing a breakup and a large financial offer, TikToker Sarah C. Roberts clarifying a viral video, Billy McFarland promoting Fyre Festival 2, Teddi Mellencamp sharing a health update, Sylvester Stallone participating in a charity event, and James Marsters remembering Michelle Trachtenberg. Governor Gavin Newsom's decision to review the Erik and Lyle Menendez case is also mentioned.

2025-02-26 19:17:14.902

A child in West Texas has died from measles, the first death in an outbreak that began late last month and the first from measles in the U.S. since 2015. The Texas Department of State Health Services confirmed the death, stating the child was unvaccinated and school-aged. The outbreak has grown to 124 cases across nine counties in West Texas and nine cases in eastern New Mexico, marking Texas’ largest outbreak in nearly 30 years. The CDC confirmed this is the first measles death in the country since 2015. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. mentioned the outbreak during a cabinet meeting, but the health secretary provided no specifics on federal assistance. Governor Greg Abbott expressed condolences and stated the state will deploy necessary resources. Vaccination rates have declined nationwide since the COVID-19 pandemic, falling below the 95% threshold needed to protect against outbreaks. The outbreak is concentrated in the Mennonite community, where many families opt out of vaccinations for their children. The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is highly effective, and the CDC is providing assistance to West Texas.