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December 2, 2025.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) brings the ball up the court against Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (7) during the first half of an NBA basketball game in San Francisco, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scores 38 points as defending champion Thunder hold off Warriors 124-112

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 38 points and made a key 3-pointer with 3:34 left, Jalen Williams added 22 points and six assists, and the Oklahoma City Thunder held off the determined Golden State Warriors 124-112. Chet Holmgren hit a go-ahead 3 from the top with 6:02 remaining and finished with 21 points and eight rebounds for the defending champions. Brandin Podziemski scored 17 points, Seth Curry added 14 in his Warriors debut with older brother Stephen Curry sidelined for a second straight game because a bruised left quadriceps and muscle strain sustained last Wednesday against Houston.

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North Carolina's Caleb Wilson (8) shoots between Kentucky's Malachi Moreno (24) and Collin Chandler (5) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in Lexington, Ky., Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/James Crisp)

Dixon delivers late as No. 16 North Carolina wins 67-64 at No. 18 Kentucky

Derek Dixon made a tiebreaking layup with 16 seconds remaining and scored five of North Carolina’s last six points to lift the No. 16 Tar Heels to a 67-64 win at No. 18 Kentucky. Dixon had nine points off the bench, and his 3-pointer with 53 seconds left helped give the Tar Heels their first road win this season. Henri Veesaar led North Carolina with 17 points, followed by Caleb Wilson with 15. Wilson shot 5 for 19 but added 12 rebounds and six assists. The Tar Heels made six 3s and limited the Wildcats to one on 13 attempts. Neither team led by more than six in a game that featured nine ties and 14 lead changes. Otega Oweh led Kentucky with 16 points.

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Duke's Isaiah Evans (3) celebrates with the student section after a play during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Florida in Durham, N.C., Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Ben McKeown)

Isaiah Evans shakes off shooting struggles to hit a winning 3 for No. 4 Duke against No. 15 Florida

Duke’s Isaiah Evans hit the winning 3-pointer in the final minute to help the fourth-ranked Blue Devils beat No. 15 Florida 67-66 in the ACC/SEC Challenge. That came after he had started 0 for 7 from 3-point range. Evans said afterward he focused on contributing defensively to stay in the game. He finished with a career-high five blocked shots as a 6-foot-6 wing. Coach Jon Scheyer says Evans showed “great growth” in hanging in the game until hitting the winning 3 with 19.7 seconds left.

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UConn guard Braylon Mullins (24) puts up a shot during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Kansas, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Braylon Mullins’ breakout performance lifts No. 5 UConn over No. 21 Kansas 61-56 at Allen Fieldhouse

UConn fans have been eagerly awaiting Braylon Mullins’ debut, and he delivered when it mattered the most Tuesday night. The five-star freshman scored 17 points, including three 3-pointers, and blocked a crucial layup to help fifth-ranked UConn secure a 61-56 win over No. 21 Kansas inside raucous Allen Fieldhouse. It was a breakout performance for Mullins, who had been dealing with an ankle injury. UConn coach Dan Hurley praised Mullins, saying he put the team in position to win. The Huskies now boast three wins over ranked teams this season, despite missing big man Tarris Reed Jr. against the Jayhawks.

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Lisette Monroe lost her beloved sister to murder. She hopes an execution will bring some peace

Lisette Monroe was a 23-year-old new mother in 1988 when she lost her beloved little sister in the most horrific way possible. Karen Pulley was raped and murdered. The man who did it was later arrested for a string of other rapes and burglaries around Chattanooga, Tennessee. He confessed his crimes to the police. Now, more than 37 years later, Harold Nichols is scheduled to be executed by the state of Tennessee. Monroe knows the pain of losing Karen will never completely go away. Still, she hopes that Nichols’ death, and the end of countless court battles, will bring some peace.

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FILE - The Hall of Nations at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts, Nov. 22, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul, file)

Trump will play a starring role heading into a big weekend at the Kennedy Center

The Kennedy Center, known for theater and opera, becomes the sports world’s focus on Friday. The World Cup matchups and locations for next year are announced there. By Sunday, it returns to its traditional role, hosting the annual awards program for top U.S. artists. President Donald Trump plays a starring role in both events. Trump worked with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to move the World Cup draw to the Kennedy Center. Infantino may recognize Trump with a new peace prize. Trump also plans to host the Kennedy Center Honors.

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President Donald Trump listens during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Trump targets Minnesota’s Somali community with harsh words and policies

President Donald Trump and his top officials have recently criticized Minnesota’s Somali community, drawing attention to immigrants from the war-torn East African country. This comes as federal authorities plan a targeted immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota focusing on Somali immigrants living unlawfully in the U.S. Minnesota has the largest Somali American population, with an estimated 84,000 residents in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Local Somali leaders and allies have pushed back against Trump’s plans — and against blaming the broader community for recent fraud cases in public programs.

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Chanel’s new showman stages an ode to NYC with star-packed runway show on a real subway platform

Designer Matthieu Blazy has taken Chanel’s fashions underground, with a runway show on a New York City subway platform. Just weeks after his splashy Paris debut with the label, Blazy staged his first Métier’s d’Art collection in a decommissioned part of the Bowery station. The annual show celebrates the craftsmanship of Chanel’s artisan partners. Celeb guests including A$AP Rocky, Ayo Edebiri, Tilda Swinton, Kristen Stewart, Jon Bon Jovi and Jessie Buckley attended the event, Chanel’s first New York show since 2018. Blazy drew inspiration from everyday subway commuters, creating a mashup of styles from the 1920s to the 2020s.

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FILE - Police officers block a street as demonstrators march at a protest opposing "Operation Midway Blitz" and the presence of ICE, Sept. 9, 2025, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley, File)

Trump administration halts immigration applications for migrants from 19 travel-ban nations

The Trump administration is pausing immigration applications, including green cards, for people from 19 countries previously banned from travel. This decision follows the shooting of two National Guard troops in the nation’s capital last week. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced the pause Tuesday in a policy memo. The agency will conduct a comprehensive review of immigration requests from these countries, described as high-risk. The pause affects immigrants already in the U.S., regardless of arrival date. The agency cited national security concerns and the recent shooting as reasons. Critics argue the actions amount to collective punishment for immigrants.

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Kansas forward Flory Bidunga (40) shoots over UConn forward Jaylin Stewart (3) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Freshman guard Braylon Mullins scores 17 points as No. 5 UConn rallies past No. 21 Kansas 61-56

Fifth-ranked UConn has beaten No. 21 Kansas 61-56. Solo Ball and Braylon Mullins each scored 17 points for the Huskies, helping them overcome a seven-point deficit in the second half. It was UConn’s fourth win over a ranked opponent this season. Kansas had a chance to tie the game late, but Mullins blocked a crucial shot by Jamari McDowell in the final seconds. Kansas was without star guard Darryn Peterson and UConn was mising big man Tarris Reed Jr. due to injuries. UConn will face East Texas A&M on Friday, while Kansas plays Missouri on Sunday.

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Boston Celtics guard Jaylen Brown (7) drives around New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

Celtics hold off late Knicks charge to win 123-117 in rematch of East semifinal

Jaylen Brown scores a season-high 42 points, leading the Boston Celtics to a 123-117 victory over the New York Knicks in a rematch of last season’s Eastern Conference semifinal. Derrick White added seven of his 22 points in the final four minutes, helping Boston fend off a New York rally. Mikal Bridges scores 17 of his 35 points in the fourth quarter for the Knicks. Boston has won four of its last five games.

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BYU head coach Kalani Sitake, center, looks to a replay with officials during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Cincinnati, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Kalani Sitake agrees to long-term contract extension with BYU after drawing interest from Penn State

Kalani Sitake will remain BYU’s head football coach after agreeing to a new long-term contract extension on Monday. Sitake is 83-44 since taking over at BYU in 2016. The Cougars have won 11 games in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 2006 and 2007. Penn State made Sitake a top candidate in its search to replace James Franklin, who was fired earlier this season after a 0-3 start in Big Ten play. Sitake had conversations with Nittany Lions athletic director Pat Kraft and received an offer reportedly worth eight figures annually to become the next coach at Penn State. BYU made retaining Sitake a top priority and put together a contract extension that swayed him to stay at the school where he played.

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Duke's Cameron Boozer (12) and Floida's Alex Condon (21) battle for a loose ball during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Durham, N.C., Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Ben McKeown)

Evans’ late 3 helps No. 4 Duke top No. 15 Florida 67-66 in ACC/SEC Challenge

Isaiah Evans hit a go-ahead 3-pointer with 19.7 seconds left, and No. 4 Duke held on to beat No. 15 Florida 67-66 in the ACC/SEC Challenge. The slim sophomore was sitting at 0 for 7 from behind the arc when Florida’s Boogie Fland hit a 3 with 34.6 seconds left for a 66-64 lead. But Evans calmly sunk the shot that ultimately helped Duke stay unbeaten. Star freshman Cameron Boozer scored 29 points for the Blue Devils. Thomas Haugh scored 24 points for the Gators, the reigning national champions.

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FILE - Clark County Sheriff and Nevada Gov.-elect Joe Lombardo during a news conference, Nov. 14, 2022, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Ellen Schmidt, File)

Nevada governor signs sweeping crime bill as state looks to boost tourism

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo has signed his signature crime legislation, his office announced Tuesday. Known as the Safe Streets and Neighborhoods Act, the law paves the way for the reinstitution of the controversial Resort Corridor Court to penalize crimes such as petty theft, assault, drug offenses and loitering originating on the Las Vegas Strip and coinciding with orders banning people from the tourist area for a year. The bill’s passage comes amid a slump in tourism. It marks a significant win for the Republican governor, who faces a tough bid for reelection in 2026.

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FILE People line up outside the Los Angeles Federal Building in Los Angeles, June 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)

Man hurled Molotov cocktails at federal building in LA and yelled insults about ICE, officials say

Authorities say a 54-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of throwing Molotov cocktails at the Los Angeles Federal Building. Nobody was hurt. The Homeland Security department says security guards heard a man yelling derogatory comments about Immigration and Customs Enforcement outside the downtown building on Monday. He then hurled two incendiary devices at the guards and was arrested. There was no explosion and no damage to the facility. Federal prosecutors filed a criminal complaint Tuesday charging him with multiple counts of attempted malicious damage of federal property and possession of an unregistered destructive device.

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Voters sign-in at a polling site, in New York, Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)

Justice Department expands legal action against states that have refused its demands for voter data

The U.S. Justice Department is suing six more states in its ongoing campaign to obtain voter data and other election information. The department late Tuesday announced it had sued Delaware, Maryland, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington over their “failure” to produce statewide voter registration lists. Some Democratic officials have raised concerns over how the data will be used and whether the department will follow privacy laws in protecting it. Federal law protects the sharing of individual data with the government. The lawsuits also signal the transformation of the Justice Department’s involvement in elections under President Donald Trump.

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FILE - Members of the Louisiana National Guard patrol the grounds of the Washington Monument at the National Mall, Sept. 7, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)

Trump says National Guard will be sent to New Orleans

President Donald Trump announces National Guard troops will soon head to New Orleans. This move comes as the city awaits an immigration crackdown called “Swamp Sweep.” Trump didn’t specify troop numbers or arrival dates. Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry, who requested up to 1,000 troops, expects them before Christmas. Landry cites crime concerns, though local police report crime is down. Critics argue federal intervention is unnecessary. Mayor-elect Helena Moreno opposes the deployment, fearing rights violations. Outgoing Mayor LaToya Cantrell is open to federal collaboration. U.S. Rep. Troy Carter calls the deployment a “political stunt.” Other Louisiana cities are also considering troop deployment.

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FILE - West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey speaks at the state capitol in Charleston, W.Va., Jan. 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Chris Jackson, File)

West Virginia again bans religious reasons for school vaccine exemptions

The West Virginia Supreme Court has paused a ruling that allowed parents to use religious beliefs to opt out of required school vaccines for their children. The Supreme Court acted six days after Raleigh County Circuit Judge Michael Froble issued an injunction in a lawsuit filed in June. Froble had said children of families who objected to the state’s compulsory vaccination law on religious grounds would be allowed to attend school. After Tuesday’s ruling, the state Board of Education said it was reinstating the school vaccine requirement that it had paused last week.

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Claude, an albino alligator, is shown at the California Academy of Sciences, in San Francisco, Thursday, April 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

San Francisco’s beloved albino alligator Claude dies at 30

A beloved albino alligator named Claude at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco has died at age 30. The museum announced his death on Tuesday. Claude was an unofficial mascot and appeared in children’s books and ads. He captivated visitors with his “quiet charisma” during his 17 years at the museum. Claude was born in 1995 in Louisiana. He was born with albinism, which made him appear white and his eyes pinkish-red. He recently underwent treatment for a suspected infection. The museum plans a public memorial, and people can share memories via email or post.

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FILE - SNAP EBT information sign is displayed at a gas station in Riverwoods, Ill., Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, file)

Trump administration threatens to withhold SNAP management funds from states that don’t share data

The Trump administration says it will withhold funds for administering SNAP food aid in most Democratic-controlled states starting next week unless they provide data about those receiving the assistance. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said Tuesday that the action is looming because those states are refusing to provide requested information about the recipients, including their names and immigration status. She says it’s necessary that states comply to root out fraud in the program. Democratic states have sued to block the requirement. About 42 million lower-income Americans rely on SNAP to help buy groceries. The USDA said it is targeting states’ administrative funds, not the benefits people receive.

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FILE - Greg Bovino, the chief patrol agent for the U.S. Border Patrol El Centro sector, center, stands with federal immigration agents near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Broadview, Ill., Oct. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley, File)

Protesters move to end their lawsuit over immigration officers’ tactics in the Chicago area

Protesters, journalists and faith leaders who sued over the aggressive tactics of federal immigration agents in the Chicago area are seeking to end their legal challenge. In a court filing Tuesday, they noted that the Trump administration’s “Operation Midway Blitz” has largely ended. The attorneys also pointed to a blistering opinion by U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis last month that outlined her findings in issuing a preliminary injunction restricting federal agents’ use of force. An appeals court had put Ellis’ order on hold, so it’s fate has been up in the air.

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FILE - Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald looks up on the sideline during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Wisconsin Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Madison, Wis. (AP Photo/Andy Manis, File)

Michigan State hires Pat Fitzgerald with 5-year, $30 million contract after he talked with 8 schools

Pat Fitzgerald spoke with eight schools about potentially coaching their football teams before choosing to resume his career at Michigan State. The former Northwestern coach and All-America linebacker signed an incentive-laden, five-year, $50 million contract to lead the Spartans back to relevance. The 51-year-old Fitzgerald says Tuesday that the offer was a no-brainer to accept. Fitzgerald will make $5 million guaranteed in his first year and will be paid at least $500,000 more in each of the following four seasons. If he helps Michigan State win seven games in any of his first three seasons, an extra year and $500,000 will be added to his contract.

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FILE - This combo shows Jeffrey Epstein, left, and U.S. economist Larry Summers. (New York State Sex Offender Registry via AP/Michel Euler, File)

Academic society bans Larry Summers for life over his close ties to Jeffrey Epstein

An academic society says it has banned former U.S. Treasury Secretary Larry Summers from  “attending, speaking at, or otherwise participating” at its events for life. The American Economic Association is just the latest institution to sever ties with the former Harvard University president and Clinton-era treasury secretary since the recent release of emails showing he maintained close ties to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein even after Epstein pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from a minor. Last month, Summers went on leave from teaching at Harvard. Other organizations that ended their affiliations with Summers include the Center for American Progress, the Center for Global Development and the Budget Lab at Yale University.

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This image contained in a court filing by the Department of Justice on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025 shows the the defendant, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, top right, bending down next to Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe after shooting them, according to police. (Department of Justice via AP)

Man charged in National Guard shooting pleads not guilty during court appearance from hospital bed

A man accused of shooting two National Guard troops near the White House has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and assault charges. Rahmanullah Lakanwal made his initial court appearance by video from a hospital bed for charges stemming from the Nov. 26 shooting that killed Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and wounded Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe. Lakanwal, who was shot during the confrontation, was in a hospital bed during the hearing and his attorney entered his not guilty plea on his behalf.

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Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire walks out on the field during a timeout during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Central Florida Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Justin Rex)

Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire gets new contract before Big 12 title game and likely playoff

Texas Tech has reached a new contract agreement with football coach Joey McGuire just days before the fifth-ranked Red Raiders play in the Big 12 championship game. The school announced Tuesday that McGuire’s contract will extend through the 2032 season and include a significant pay raise. The deal will be finalized in the coming days. McGuire is 34-17 in his four seasons. The 11-1 Red Raiders play No. 11 BYU on Saturday. Texas Tech appears to be a lock for a playoff berth regardless of the game’s outcome.

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Indianapolis Colts kicker Mike Badgley (12) kicks a field goal against the Houston Texans during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Colts will enter key AFC South matchup against Jags with new kicker after cutting Badgley

The Indianapolis Colts have waived Michael Badgley, assuring they will have a new kicker in place for Sunday’s key AFC South game at Jacksonville. Indy has not yet signed a new kicker and does not have one on the practice squad. The move comes two days after Badgley missed his third extra-point attempt in seven games after replacing the injured Spencer Shrader, who tore multiple ligaments in his right knee in early October. Shrader will miss the rest of this season. Badgley was in his third stint with Indy (8-4).

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Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., center, is joined by from left: Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo., Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., and Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., during the Senate Republican policy luncheon news conference at the Capitol, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rod Lamkey, Jr.)

Chances dwindling for renewal of health care subsidies, risking premium spikes for millions

Hopes for an extension of health care subsidies are dwindling in Congress. Republicans and Democrats have largely abandoned bipartisan talks on the issue, increasing the odds that millions of Americans could see sharp premium spikes starting Jan. 1. Democrats who agreed earlier this month to reopen the government in exchange for a December health care vote were hoping they could work with Republicans to extend the COVID-era Affordable Care Act tax credits that help many Americans pay for their health coverage. But lawmakers in both parties have spent most of the time since talking amongst themselves instead.

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Michael Dell, left, his wife Susan and President Donald Trump listen during an event on "Trump Accounts" for kids in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

With ‘Trump Accounts,’ your baby could qualify for $1,000. Here’s what to know

President Donald Trump’s tax legislation included a provision called “Trump Accounts,” which gives $1,000 to every newborn if their parents open an account. This money is invested in the stock market, and children can access it when they turn 18. The accounts aim to help low-income children build wealth. Congress is funding accounts for babies born between 2025 and 2028. Billionaires Michael and Susan Dell on Tuesday announced a donation to help some older children with seed money of $250 each. Critics argue the accounts don’t help children in their early years and may widen the wealth gap. Parents can sign up now, and the accounts will start to open in July 2026.

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President Donald Trump listens during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Doodling, drowsiness and a conspicuous misspelling highlight Trump’s last Cabinet meeting of 2025

President Donald Trump’s latest Cabinet meeting lasted over two hours. Trump’s eyes fluttered as he struggled to keep them open at times. White House budget director Russell Vought was spotted doodling. The nameplate for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was misspelled, calling him the “Ssecretary of war” with two S’s. The proceedings Tuesday didn’t outlast Trump’s August Cabinet meeting, which stretched on for more than three hours. Still, Trump opened the December meeting by noting it would be his final Cabinet meeting of the year — and it felt like a holiday break might be in order.

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FILE - Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Quinnen Williams looks on during the national anthem before an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders, Nov 17, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/David Becker, File)

Quinnen Williams won’t say it, but there’s no denying his impact on the Dallas defense

Quinnen Williams disregards the notion that the standout defensive tackle’s arrival in a trade is the best explanation for a dramatic turnaround by the defense of the Dallas Cowboys. Teammates and coaches agree — to a point. Coach Brian Schottenheimer says the presence of Williams is real and gives teammates more chances to shine. Here’s the reality. Dallas is 3-0 since giving the New York Jets a 2027 first-round draft pick, a second-rounder next year and underperforming defensive tackle Mazi Smith to acquire Williams at the trade deadline. And the defense is a big part of the surge. The Cowboys visit Detroit on Thursday night.

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Mom charged with killing pregnant biological daughter in rural Michigan woods

A Michigan prosecutor is calling it “evil personified.” Authorities charged a woman and her husband with murder in the death of the woman’s pregnant biological daughter. Twenty-two-year-old Rebecca Park’s body was found in a northern Michigan forest, three weeks after she disappeared. Wexford County prosecutor Johanna Carey says Park was forced into a vehicle and killed in the woods. Carey says the baby was cut out of her. Cortney and Brad Bartholomew were each charged with murder, torture and other crimes. The public defender declined to comment.

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FILE - A lone shopper pushes a cart toward the entrance of a Costco warehouse, March 13, 2025, in Sheridan, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File)

Costco becomes biggest company yet to demand refund of Trump tariffs

Costco is joining other companies that aren’t waiting to see whether the Supreme Court strikes down President Donald Trump’s most sweeping import taxes. They’re already going to court to demand refunds on the tariffs they’ve paid. The Court of Trade and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington ruled earlier this year that Trump’s biggest and boldest import taxes are illegal. The case is now before the Supreme Court. In a Nov. 5 hearing, several of the high court’s justices expressed doubts that the president had sweeping power to declare national emergencies to impose tariffs on goods from almost every country on earth. The government might be forced to pay back the money it’s collected.

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Trader Vincent Napolitano works on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)

Wall Street holds steadier as bond yields and bitcoin stabilize

The U.S. stock market held steadier as both bond yields and bitcoin stabilized. The S&P 500 rose 0.2% Tuesday, following its first loss in six days. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.4%, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 0.6%. Boeing was one of the strongest forces lifting the market after it gave an encouraging forecast for how much cash it will produce next year. That helped offset losses for Signet Jewelers and Procter & Gamble, which highlighted potential challenges for U.S. households. Treasury yields eased following their jumps the day before. Bitcoin rose back above $91,000 after tumbling below $85,000 on Monday.

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Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza looks to pass the ball during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Purdue, Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, in West Lafayette, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)

Sayin, Mendoza chase Big Ten title and Heisman Trophy when No. 1 Ohio St faces No. 2 Indiana

Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin and Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza each have one prize in mind for their showdown this weekend in Indianapolis: a Big Ten championship. Their worthiness for a Heisman Trophy will consume most of next week’s debate. The two first-year starters at their respective schools each played their way into frontrunner status by leading their teams to unbeaten regular seasons, posting outstanding numbers and delivering when the stakes have been highest. They get final chances to pad those Heisman resumes when No. 1 Ohio State and No. 2 Indiana square off in the Big Ten title game.

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US to play Belgium, Portugal and Germany in friendlies ahead of World Cup

The United States will play Belgium, Portugal and Germany in its final friendlies before the World Cup. The U.S. Soccer Federation announced Tuesday that the 14th-ranked U.S. faces No. 8 Belgium on March 28 and No. 6 Portugal three days later, both in Atlanta. Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo could play in the U.S. for the first time since 2014. After the World Cup roster is selected, the U.S. plays an undetermined team on May 31 in Charlotte, and then faces No. 9 Germany on June 6 in Chicago. The U.S. is unbeaten in five matches, including four wins.

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Joe Schoen, senior vice president and general manager of the New York Giants, speaks during an NFL football press conference, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kena Betancur)

Giants GM Joe Schoen defends roster, points to talent when questioned about job security

New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen pointed to the talent on the roster as a reason why he deserves to keep his job and oversee the search for the team’s next head coach. Schoen acknowledged making mistakes that have contributed to a 2-11 record this season and 25 losses over the past 30 games and expects ownership to evaluate the football operations department over the next several weeks. That would include his job status after owner John Mara appeared to give Schoen a vote of confidence when coach Brian Daboll was fired.

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Green Bay Packers defensive lineman Micah Parsons (1) celebrates a sack against the Detroit Lions during the second half an NFL football game in Detroit, Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

Micah Parsons making history in first season with Packers as his sack totals climb

Micah Parsons has pressured quarterbacks at a rate to rival any player in the entire NFL throughout his first season with the Green Bay Packers. Now he’s backing that up with sacks. Parsons has six sacks during the Packers’ three-game win streak, bringing his season total to 12 ½. He’s the first player to have at least 12 sacks in each of his first five seasons since the NFL started recognizing the stat in 1982.

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A man takes a photo of Rockefeller Center in front of Saks Fifth Avenue on Black Friday in New York on Friday, Nov. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Angelina Katsanis)

A look at the Thanksgiving shopping weekend and what’s next

The nation’s shoppers may feel gloomy about the economy, but they certainly were in the mood to shop over the five-day Thanksgiving weekend that wrapped up on Cyber Monday. Wall Street analysts and retailers are sifting through the data from the weekend _ the unofficial start to the season and a good barometer of shoppers’ financial health and the strength of the economy. So far the figures show that shoppers came out online and in stores to scour for deals on everything from TVs and clothing, But all that economic uncertainty did affect spending. Shoppers were very focused and selective, malls reported. Now the question is: whether shoppers will keep spending for the season and into 2026. Here’s a look at the data, the discounts, and what’s next for retailers among other issues.

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North Texas quarterback Drew Mestemaker (17) looks to pass the ball during an NCAA college football game against Temple, Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, Denton, Texas. (AP Photo/Jessica Tobias)

North Texas QB Drew Mestemaker and coach Eric Morris top American Conference awards

North Texas quarterback and national passing leader Drew Mestemaker has been named the American Conference’s top offensive player, and soon-departing Eric Morris from the No. 20 Mean Green is the league’s coach of the year. Navy lineman Landon Robinson was chosen as the league’s defensive player of the year, Tulane kicker Patrick Durkin the special teams player of the year and North Texas true freshman running back Caleb Hawkins as rookie of the year. The awards announced Tuesday were determined by the votes from the league’s 14 coaches. North Texas and No. 21 Tulane play in the league title game Friday. Morris will become Oklahoma State’s coach after the season.

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FILE - Philadelphia Flyers' goaltender Carter Hart in action during an NHL hockey game against the Colorado Avalanche, Jan. 20, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton, File)

Carter Hart to make first NHL start in nearly 2 years for Golden Knights

Goalie Carter Hart, acquitted of sexual assault in July, is set to make his first NHL appearance in nearly two years. He will start Tuesday night when the Vegas Golden Knights host Chicago. Hart signed a two-year, $4 million contract and has been working with the club’s American Hockey League affiliate in Henderson, Nevada. He last played in an NHL game on Jan. 20, 2024, for Philadelphia. Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy said the focus is on getting Hart back into game shape. With starting goalie Adin Hill injured, Hart’s return could be crucial for Vegas.

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UConn head coach Jim Mora talks with an official during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Duke, Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, in East Hartford, Conn. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill)

Jim Mora makes bold promise for Colorado State’s football future

Jim Mora has taken over as head coach at Colorado State, a position he first showed interest in back in 2019. Mora, who previously built a successful program at UConn, replaces Jay Norvell after his midseason firing. Mora is excited about Colorado State’s upcoming move to the newly configured Pac-12. He believes the conference’s brand recognition is significant. The Rams are coming off a 2-10 season but Mora said he aims to turn around the Rams program just as he did UConn’s.

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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth speaks as President Donald Trump looks on, during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Hegseth cites ‘fog of war’ in defending follow-on strike on alleged drug boat

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is citing the “fog of war” in defending a follow-up strike on an alleged drug-carrying boat in the Caribbean Sea in early September. During Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting at the White House, Hegseth said he did not see any survivors in the water when the second strike was ordered and launched, saying the boat “exploded in fire. Hegseth also said he “didn’t stick around” for the remainder of the mission following the initial strike, and said the admiral in charge “made the right call” in ordering it, which he “had complete authority to do.” Lawmakers have opened investigations following a Washington Post report that Hegseth issued a verbal order to “kill everybody” on the boat.

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FILE - Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurene Comey is outside court during the Sean "Diddy" Combs' sex trafficking trial, June 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey, File)

US Justice Department seeks to dismiss Maurene Comey lawsuit on procedural grounds

The U.S. Justice Department is seeking dismissal of a lawsuit that fired former federal prosecutor Maurene Comey brought against it, saying she didn’t properly follow administrative complaint procedures before suing. The argument was in court papers filed Monday prior to a Thursday hearing in Manhattan federal court. In September, Comey sued the department, the Executive Office of the President, U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi, the Office of Personnel Management and the United States. The lawsuit said her July firing was based on political reasons, including that her father is former FBI Director James Comey. President Donald Trump fired James Comey in 2017.

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New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye looks to pass against the New York Giants during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

‘Never satisfied’ Patriots head into bye week on a 10-game winning streak after beating Giants

The New England Patriots went from winning 11 consecutive AFC East titles during the Bill Belichick and Tom Brady era, to looking up to Buffalo in each of the past five seasons. Following a dominant 33-15 win over the New York Giants that included more MVP chants for quarterback Drake Maye, New England heads into its bye week on a 10-game winning streak. The players credit the tone coach Mike Vrabel’s set in his first season for the Patriots becoming the first NFL team to reach 11 victories this season.

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President Donald Trump speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in Washington, as Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth looks on. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)

Trump says he doesn’t want Somalis in the US, urges them to go back to their homeland and fix it

President Donald Trump during a lengthy Cabinet meeting on Tuesday said he did not want Somali immigrants in the U.S., saying residents of the war-ravaged eastern African country are too reliant on U.S. social safety net and add little to the United States. The president’s comment came days after his administration announced they are halting all asylum decisions following the shooting of two National Guard soldiers in Washington. The suspect in last week’s incident is originally from Afghanistan, but Trump has used the moment to raise questions about immigrants from other nations, including Somalia.

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FILE - In this June 28, 2019, file photo the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) seal is seen during a news conference in Washington. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

Federal authorities plan operation in Minnesota focusing on Somali immigrants, AP source says

Federal authorities are preparing an immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota, focusing on Somali immigrants living unlawfully in the U.S. The operation, which could begin soon, targets people in the Minneapolis–St. Paul area with final deportation orders. This move follows President Trump’s recent rhetoric about the Somali community, which has heightened tensions. Minnesota has the largest Somali community in the nation. Many fled the civil war in Somalia and were drawn to the state’s welcoming programs. Community leaders express concern over profiling and fear the operation may lead to incidental arrests of others lacking legal status.

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Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin stands on the sideline during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Mike Tomlin shares the frustration of Steelers fans with his team at 6-6. ‘I don’t like it’

Mike Tomlin isn’t immune to the boos that followed the Pittsburgh Steelers after their blowout loss to Buffalo. The longest-tenured NFL coach shares their frustration with Pittsburgh having lost 5 of 7 to drop to 6-6 on the season. Tomlin says his team has things to correct but that he is confident the Steelers can turn things around. Pittsburgh travels to Baltimore this week with first place in the AFC North on the line.

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‘New Year’s Rockin’ Eve’ to feature Chappell Roan, Mariah Carey, Post Malone and Maren Morris

Mariah Carey, Chappell Roan, Post Malone and Demi Lovato will help ring in the new year on “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve.” The show airs live on ABC on Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. EST and repeats the next day on Hulu. Ryan Seacrest and Rita Ora will host from New York City’s Times Square. Chance the Rapper will join from Chicago, while Rob Gronkowski and Julianne Hough will be in Las Vegas. Other performers include 50 Cent, Charlie Puth, OneRepublic, Pitbull, Ciara and more. The headliner for Times Square will be announced later.

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FILE - Emma Navarro, of the United States celebrates with captain Lindsay Davenport after winning in the Billie Jean King Cup semifinals tennis match against Sonay Kartal, of Britain, at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Center Arena, in Shenzhen, China's Guangdong province, Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Andy Wong, File)

Lindsay Davenport signs on for 2 more years as US captain for the Billie Jean King Cup

Lindsay Davenport has signed a two-year contract renewal to remain the Billie Jean King Cup captain for the United States. The U.S. Tennis Association announced the move Tuesday. Davenport led the Americans to the team competition’s final this year, their first appearance in that round since 2018. The U.S. lost to Italy. Davenport became captain in 2024. As a player, she helped the U.S. win the event three times, in 1996, 1999 and 2000. She won three Grand Slam singles titles and reached No. 1 in the WTA rankings. The United States will play Billie Jean King Cup qualifying matches in April.

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FILE - A sign of Washington Dulles International Airport station is seen during the opening of new Silver Line Extension at Washington Dulles International Airport, in Chantilly, Va., Nov. 15, 2022. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)

Trump says he’s rebuilding Dulles airport while his administration is fixing the ‘people movers’

President Donald Trump has announced plans to reconstruct Dulles International Airport in northern Virginia. During a Cabinet meeting at the White House on Tuesday, Trump criticized the airport’s current state, calling it “terrible.” He praised the building’s architect, the Finnish-American Eero Saarinen, but says it was “incorrectly designed.” Trump promises to make Dulles “something really spectacular.” His motorcade took an unannounced drive through the terminal in early November to assess potential projects. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy says the administration is working to repair the airport’s “people movers,” with bids requested for repairs.

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Clifford Glade

Cliff Glade, beloved father, husband, cowboy, and friend, passed away on November 21, 2025, after a courageous battle with prostate

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Kansas guard Darryn Peterson drives during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Green Bay, Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, in Lawrence, Kan. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

No. 21 Kansas’ Darryn Peterson will miss his 7th straight game vs. No. 5 UConn with hamstring injury

Darryn Peterson will not play for No. 21 Kansas against fifth-ranked UConn at Allen Fieldhouse. Jayhawks coach Bill Self announced the update before the game on Tuesday night. Self said in a social media post that the freshman still isn’t 100% and remains day to day. Peterson played the first two games of the season, a blowout of Green Bay and a loss at North Carolina. This will be his seventh game missed with an injured hamstring. Peterson was widely considered the nation’s No. 1 recruit coming out of high school. Many NBA mock drafts have pegged the guard as the first pick for the June draft.

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FILE - Former Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Barry Bonds acknowledges the crowd during a ceremony for players that are part of the team's 2024 Hall of Fame class before a baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds in Pittsburgh, Aug. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Barry Reeger, File)

Baseball Hall of Fame reveals committee members who will consider Bonds, Clemens and others

Hall of Fame players Ferguson Jenkins, Jim Kaat, Juan Marichal, Tony Pérez, Ozzie Smith, Alan Trammell and Robin Yount are among 16 members of the contemporary era committee that will consider an eight-man Hall ballot that includes Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, Don Mattingly and Dale Murphy. Owners Mark Attanasio of the Milwaukee Brewers and Arte Moreno of the Los Angeles Angels also are on the committee that gathers Sunday at the winter meetings in Orlando, Florida.

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Courtesy of The HomeSlice Group

NFL Week 13 Recap

By Mitchell Stafford, Rapid City Post Sports Week 13 turned up the heat as playoff races tighten. From Thanksgiving leftovers

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FILE - Sheldon Timothy Herrington Jr., who is on trial on a capital murder charge in the 2022 death of University of Mississippi student Jimmie "Jay" Lee, looks out into the courtroom during the lunch break, in Oxford, Miss., on Dec. 3, 2024. (Bruce Newman/The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal via AP, Pool, File)

Man to serve 40 years for killing University of Mississippi student Jay Lee

A man who pleaded guilty to the killing of a University of Mississippi graduate student was sentenced to 50 years with 10 years suspended on Tuesday. Sheldon “Timothy” Herrington Jr. pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and tampering in the death of Jimmie “Jay” Lee. Lee was a gay man who was prominent in the LGBTQ+ community. Herrington entered the plea on Monday at the beginning of his second trial. He was sentenced to 40 years with 10 years suspended for second-degree murder and another 10 years for tampering. The sentences will run consecutively, and he will be subject to 10 years of post-release supervision.

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Sabrina Carpenter and Franklin the Turtle publisher condemn Trump administration’s use of their work

Pop singer Sabrina Carpenter and the publisher of Franklin the Turtle are disavowing the Trump administration’s use of their work. Carpenter’s song “Juno” was used in a video montage depicting ICE raids. On Tuesday, she tweeted that the video is “evil and disgusting” and asked not to involve her music in such agendas. On Monday, Kids Can Press condemned a post by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth showing Franklin the Turtle holding a bazooka. The publisher tweeted that this use contradicts its values. Many artists have objected to Trump using their songs, including ABBA and Bruce Springsteen.

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FILE - Denny Hamlin is introduced before a NASCAR Cup Series auto race Sunday, Nov. 2, 2025, in Avondale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)

Denny Hamlin testifies that signing NASCAR’s charter deal would have been a ‘death certificate’

Denny Hamlin, a three-time Daytona 500 winner, has outlined the financial struggles facing NASCAR teams. He testified Tuesday in a federal antitrust trial against NASCAR, saying his team spent over $700,000 in fees to the series in 2022. The trial began Monday, brought by 23XI Racing, co-owned by Hamlin and Michael Jordan, and Front Row Motorsports. They argue NASCAR’s revenue model is unfair. Hamlin said losing a single sponsor could erase profits. He also criticized a TV deal that favors streaming over traditional sponsors. The trial is expected to last two weeks. NASCAR denies any wrongdoing.

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FILE - Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, speaks about the Trump administration following reports that only Republican lawmakers received security briefings on the Trump-ordered military strikes against boats in the Caribbean, during a news conference at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

Democratic US Sen. Mark Warner launches bid for reelection

Democratic U.S. Sen. Mark Warner has announced he’ll seek reelection in what will be a critical race for a narrowly divided Senate. Republicans have a 53-47 majority in the Senate. Democrats will have to pick up four seats in order to regain power in the upper chamber. Warner says he is running for reelection to rein in America’s economic crisis and the impact of artificial intelligence on job displacement. In his pitch, he is referencing his career as a businessman who co-founded the company that became Nextel. Warner already is facing a challenge from Republican state Sen. Bryce Reeves.

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FILE - The Justice Department sign is shown in Washington, Nov. 18, 2022. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File)

Federal prosecutors say Afghan national made bomb threat on TikTok video in Texas

Authorities have charged a Texas man with making threats online after they say a video showing him threatening to build a bomb and conduct a suicide attack was posted to TikTok and other social media sites. Mohammad Dawood Alokozay is an Afghan national who lives in the Fort Worth area. He was charged in federal court on Saturday. Attorney General Pamela Bondi says he came to the U.S. during the Biden administration. The FBI was alerted about the videos on Nov. 25, and Alokozay was arrested the same day. Court records do not name a defense attorney, and Alokozay has not yet had the opportunity to enter a plea.

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FILE - Cleveland Guardians baseball player Emmanuel Clase leaves Brooklyn federal court, Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura, File)

Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz face May trial date in gambling case

Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz are facing a May trial on charges that they took bribes to help gamblers betting on their pitches. U.S. District Court Judge Kiyo Matsumoto on Tuesday said jury selection would begin May 4 in Brooklyn federal court, with the trial opening the following week or sooner. Prosecutors told the judge at the brief hearing that both sides have been in pretrial discussions but have not talked about a possible plea deal in the case. The pitchers and their lawyers declined to comment outside the courtroom. They’re due back in court Jan. 15.

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FILE - Eugene Hasenfus stands outside U.S. District Court in Miami, Tuesday, Dec. 13, 1986 after appearing at a status hearing in his lawsuit against two Iran-Contra figures. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens, File)

Eugene Hasenfus, key figure in 1980s Iran-Contra affair, dies at 84

Eugene Hasenfus, who played a key role in unraveling the Iran-Contra affair after his CIA-backed supply plane was shot down over Nicaragua in 1986, has died. According to his obituary, Hasenfus died on Nov. 26 in Menominee, Michigan, after a nine-year battle with cancer. He was 84. Hafenfus was the lone survivor after the plane was shot down by the Nicaraguan government. Congress launched an investigation after the incident. Hafenfus was convicted in Nicaragua and sentenced to 30 years in prision. But Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega pardoned him and Hasenfus lived out his life in northern Wisconsin.

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FILE - Ship containers are stacked at the Panama Canal Balboa port, operated by the Panama Ports Company, in Panama City, Sept. 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix, File)

Despite US trade war, OECD expects global economy will grow 3.2% this year

The world economy has proven surprisingly durable in the face of President Donald Trump’s trade wars, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development said Tuesday, upgrading its outlook for global and U.S. economic growth this year. The 38-country OECD now forecasts that the world economy will grow 3.2% this year, down a tick from 3.3% in 2024 but an improvement on the 2.9% it had predicted for 2025 back in June. The organization expects global growth to slow to 2.9% next year. The OECD also raised its forecast for U.S. growth this year – to 2%, up from the 1.6% it had forecast in June.

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FILE - Los Angeles Galaxy's Todd Dunivant plays during an MLS soccer match against D.C. United in Carson, Calif., Aug. 27, 2014. (AP Photo/Danny Moloshok, File)

Todd Dunivant hired as sporting director of Major League Soccer’s New York City FC

Todd Dunivant, a veteran of 13 Major League Soccer seasons, has been hired as sporting director of New York City FC. Dunivant replaces David Lee, who left on Sept. 30 to become president of soccer operations and general manager of Sporting Kansas City. Dunivant was a defender for San Jose, the LA Galaxy, New York Red Bulls and Toronto. He has been general manager of the second-tier Sacramento Republic since 2018 and president since 2021. Dunivant turns 45 on Dec. 26. He was hired on Tuesday.

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FILE - The OpenAI logo is seen displayed on a cell phone in front of an image on a computer screen generated by ChatGPT's Dall-E text-to-image model, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, file)

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman declares ‘code red’ to improve ChatGPT amid rising competition in AI chatbots

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has issued a “code red” alert to employees to improve ChatGPT, according to The Wall Street Journal. Altman sent an internal memo to staff Monday, saying more work is needed to enhance the chatbot’s speed, reliability, and personalization features. This week marks three years since OpenAI first released ChatGPT, sparking global interest in generative AI technology. But the company faces increased competition from rivals, including Google, which last month released Gemini 3, the latest version of its AI assistant. OpenAI didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday.

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FILE - Pedestrians walk under the marquee of the Broadway show "Monty Python's Spamalot" in New York on Nov. 25, 2008. (AP Photo/Craig Ruttle, File )

Monty Python’s Flying Circus musical ‘Spamalot’ hopes to spread the silliness with US tour

Eric Idle, a founding member of the comedy group “Monty Python’s Flying Circus, has long had a mission to make us laugh. He continues that crusade with a national touring version of his hit musical “Spamalot,” which begins in Ohio this week. The tour will travel to more than 30 cities in its first year including Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Las Vegas, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, Atlanta, Dallas, New Orleans, St. Louis, Houston and Milwaukee. The stage tale is loosely based on the 1975 movie “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” concerns King Arthur and his quest to corral some knights who’ll go off with him to find the grail.

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10 notable books of 2025: A posthumous memoir about Epstein, ‘Hunger Games’ and reliving 2024

The publishing world’s notable releases this year included a new “Hunger Games” novel and a book by Thomas Pynchon. Suzanne Collins’ prequel “Sunrise on the Reaping” sold over 4 million copies despite her limited promotion. Mel Robbins’ self-help book, “The Let Them Theory,” topped bestseller lists, while David Szalay’s “Flesh” won the Booker Prize. Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir, “Nobody’s Girl,” made headlines for its revelations. Rick Atkinson’s “The Fate of the Day” received acclaim for its history of the Revolutionary War. Books on the 2024 election, including Kamala Harris’ “107 Days,” also captured readers’ attention.

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FILE - Players run drills during a practice with Texas Fury, an all-girls flag football select travel team, Dec. 10, 2023, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File)

Jets and ECAC launch largest collegiate women’s flag football league in the US

The New York Jets and the Eastern College Athletic Conference have announced the launch of the largest collegiate women’s flag football league in the U.S., set to start in February. This league will include 15 universities across several Northeast states. Jets owner Woody Johnson is investing $1 million to support the league’s creation and operation. The Jets have been supporting girls’ flag football since 2011, helping to establish leagues at various levels. This new initiative aims to bridge the gap between high school and professional opportunities for women in the sport.

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Rose performs during the Global Citizen Festival in New York on Sept. 27, 2025, left, and Bruno Mars performs at the 59th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on Feb. 12, 2017. (AP Photo)

Apple Replay is here. What’s the No. 1 song on Apple Music’s 2025 songs chart?

Rosé and Bruno Mars’ “APT.” has topped Apple Music’s global song chart in 2025. The giant music streamer released year-end lists Tuesday and provided listeners with data on their own most listened-to tunes. “APT.” is both artists’ first No. 1 on the year-end global songs chart. They’re followed by Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther,” in second. Mars makes another appearance, in third, for his collaboration with Lady Gaga, “Die With A Smile.” Also available Tuesday is Replay. That is Apple’s alternative to Spotify’s Wrapped playlist. It allows Apple Music subscribers to engage with their favorite music on the streaming service this year.

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FILE - New Jersey Devils defenseman Cal Foote (52) during warm up before an NHL hockey game, against the Buffalo Sabres Friday, Oct. 27, 2023, in Newark, N.J. (AP Photo/Noah K. Murray, File)

Cal Foote, one of the players acquitted in Hockey Canada sexual assault case, signs in the AHL

A fourth player found not guilty of sexual assault in the trial involving members of Canada’s 2018 world junior hockey team has signed a contract to continue his career. Defenseman Cal Foote signed an American Hockey League contract Monday with the Chicago Wolves. Goaltender Carter Hart previously signed an NHL deal with the Vegas Golden Knights, while forwards Michael McLeod and Alex Formenton are playing in Europe. Dillon Dube is the only player charged and acquitted who has not yet signed a contract. All five players became eligible Monday to play in the NHL after being allowed to sign on Oct. 15.

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Ann Patchett appears at the 2021 National Humanities Medal ceremony at the White House in Washington on March 21, 2023, left, and film producer Jason Blum appears at the premiere of "M3GAN 2.0" in New York on June 24, 2025. (AP Photo)

Film producer Jason Blum and author-bookseller Ann Patchett to receive PEN America awards

Oscar-nominated producer Jason Blum is set to receive the Business Visionary award from PEN America at its fundraising gala next spring. PEN America, a century-old free expression organization, announced Tuesday that it will also honor author-bookseller Ann Patchett with the PEN/Audible Literary Service Award. The gala is scheduled for May 14 at the American Museum of Natural History. Blum, founder of Blumhouse Productions, is recognized for transforming horror films into a cultural force. Patchett, known for such novels as “Bel Canto,” has been praised for her literary contributions and support of fellow authors through her bookstore, Parnassus Books.

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Starbucks employees and supporters picket outside a Starbucks store in the Brooklyn borough of New York, Monday, Dec. 1, 2025 (AP Photo/Jennifer Peltz)

Starbucks to pay $35M to NYC workers in settlement as ongoing strike draws pols to picket line

New York City officials say Starbucks will pay about $35 million to more than 15,000 New York City workers to settle claims it denied them stable schedules and arbitrarily cut their hours. The settlement agreement was announced Monday. Hours later, Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders visited striking baristas on a picket line. Starbucks also has agreed to pay $3.4 million in civil penalties as part of the New York City settlement. The company says the city law is complex but that Starbucks is committed to operating responsibly and complying with all applicable local laws and regulations. The developments come amid a continuing strike by the Starbucks’ union that began last month at dozens of locations nationwide.

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Michael and Susan Dell pose for photographs Nov. 26, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Michael and Susan Dell donate $6.25 billion to encourage families to claim ‘Trump Accounts’

Billionaires Michael and Susan Dell pledged a historic $6.25 billion on Tuesday to provide an incentive to families to adopt new investment accounts for children. The so-called “Trump Accounts” were created as part of President Donald Trump’s tax and spending legislation but have not yet launched. The gift has little precedent in terms of size, with few single charitable commitments in the past 25 years exceeding $1 billion. Through their gift, the Dells will deposit $250 into the investment accounts of 25 million children aged 10 and younger as an incentive for their families to claim the accounts and make investments in the stock market.

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FILE - Wisconsin U.S. Senate candidate Mandela Barnes speaks at a rally Oct. 29, 2022, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Morry Gash, File)

Democrat Mandela Barnes, a former US Senate candidate, enters the Wisconsin governor’s race

A Democrat who served four years as Wisconsin’s lieutenant governor and narrowly lost a 2022 U.S. Senate bid is running for governor in the battleground state. Mandela Barnes announced Tuesday that he is joining the crowded Democratic field for the open race in 2026. Barnes enters as the presumptive front-runner given his prominent name recognition and statewide funding network. Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany is the highest profile Republican candidate and he is a staunch supporter of President Donald Trump. Wisconsin is a politically divided state that elected Trump in 2016 and 2024 and Democrat Joe Biden in 2020.

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Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) prepares to shoot a free throw during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Miami Heat, Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

The Clippers have a slew of future Hall of Famers. And at 5-16, they have a slew of problems

The Los Angeles Clippers are facing significant challenges this season. Despite having stars like Chris Paul, James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, the team has struggled. A 140-123 loss to Miami on Monday dropped them to 5-16. The Clippers were expected to be championship contenders, but injuries and an aging roster have hindered their performance. They currently sit near the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Coach Tyronn Lue and the team are searching for solutions, but time is running out. Only seven teams in NBA history have started this poorly and still made the playoffs.

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Denver Broncos outside linebacker Nik Bonitto (15) blocks a pass attempt by Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) on a failed two-point conversion attempt in overtime of an NFL football game Monday, Dec. 1, 2025, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Fortunate flags: How the Broncos extended their win streak to 9 with a little help from officials

The Denver Broncos’ 27-26 victory in overtime at Washington extended their winning streak to nine games. All of them have required comebacks. The latest one Sunday night was marked by some questionable calls from the officials. The Broncos benefited from three calls and one non-call in the final minutes. The Commanders overcame penalties to tie the game with a field goal as time expired in regulation. In overtime, Denver scored a touchdown, and Washington responded with one of its own. However, the Broncos deflected a two-point conversion attempt to secure the win. The Broncos maintain luck hasn’t played a role in their streak.

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Santa Clara basketball player Thierry Darlan holds a basketall while being interviewed on the Santa Clara University campus in Santa Clara, Calif., Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Santa Clara’s Thierry Darlan paves new path after going from NBA G League to college basketball

Thierry Darlan is making history as a former NBA G League player who has gone from the pros to a college court, the opposite of a typical progression. Darlan is in school after being granted two years of collegiate eligibility by the NCAA. He has followed his sports dream from the NBA Academy Africa in Senegal to the Basketball Africa League, then the G League Ignite and Delaware Blue Coats. Now, he’s in the West Coast Conference playing for veteran coach Herb Sendek.

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