A new PEN America report reveals a significant increase in U.S. school book bans, with over 6,800 instances recorded in the 2024-25 school year across 23 states. LGBTQ+ titles, international bestsellers, and teen romantasy novels are among the most targeted. The trend, particularly concentrated in Florida, Texas, and Tennessee, is...
American Express is increasing the annual fee for its Platinum card from $695 to $895, adding new benefits like credits for Resy, Lululemon, and Uber One. While Amex aims to retain its customer base, particularly younger demographics, the fee hike is prompting cardholders to re-evaluate the card's value. Experts suggest...
Tropical Storm Priscilla has formed in the Pacific off Mexico's coast, packing strong winds extending 140 miles. Located southwest of Manzanillo, it's moving northwest at 3 mph. A tropical storm watch is in effect for parts of southwestern Mexico, with hurricane status possible Sunday/Monday. Another storm, Octave, is further offshore...
President Trump is preparing a significant aid package for U.S. soybean farmers facing losses due to China's boycott amid trade war tensions. While a soybean deal with Beijing remains a goal, farmers express urgency as China has ceased purchases since May. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated "substantial support" is imminent....
Political parties in Washington are actively using the threat of a government shutdown to gain electoral advantage for next year. Democrats are running ads highlighting Republican opposition to affordable healthcare, while Republicans accuse Democrats of sabotaging President Trump's policies and immigration enforcement. Both sides are investing in messaging campaigns, though...
Justice Amy Coney Barrett discusses her encounters with protesters, noting her ability to remain "businesslike" and un-emotional. She attributes this composure to a lifelong practice of controlling her emotions and approaching life and law analytically. Barrett explains her judicial philosophy of "originalism" and clarifies the Court's role in handling cases...
Pope Leo XIV made a rare appearance Saturday, presiding over the swearing-in of 27 new Swiss Guards. This marks the first time a pope has led the ceremony since 1968, adding a unique touch to the event held amidst efforts to recruit more guards for the world's oldest standing army....
Bad Bunny addressed criticism over his Super Bowl Halftime show booking during his "Saturday Night Live" debut. The Puerto Rican artist expressed excitement, calling the selection a "win for all of us" and a testament to Latino contributions in the US. He playfully told critics they had "four months to...
National Guard troops, like other essential government employees, will not receive timely pay due to the ongoing shutdown. Active-duty military personnel, including deployed Guard members, must continue their duties but face a delay in their salaries until funding is reinstated. Unlike previous shutdowns where Congress enacted measures to ensure military...
Rick Neuheisel, a CBS studio analyst, experienced an emotional afternoon as his son, Jerry Neuheisel, called the plays for UCLA in their unexpected 42-37 upset of No. 7 Penn State. CBS cameras captured Rick's intense reactions, showcasing his shift from neutral observer to proud, critical father. Jerry, recently named offensive...
