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Reigning champion Indiana Hoosiers survive major scare from Northwestern in Big Ten opener

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 00:19:02 -0400

The reigning National Champion Indiana Hoosiers haven't been tested much this season, and boy, did they ever get a test on Friday night.

Despite being three-touchdown favorites, the Hoosiers found themselves battling the Northwestern Wildcats to the very end, eking out a 29-23 win at home.

Coming into Friday night's game, the Hoosiers — despite getting off to a 3-0 start on the heels of a title — had dealt with one big criticism dogging them this season.

Slow starts.

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Head coach Curt Cignetti had to field questions about his team's play early in games against easier opponents.

So, there was a lot of focus on whether or not that trend would continue as the Big Ten schedule got underway against the Wildcats.

Well, the answer was... kind of?

The Hoosiers opened the game with a 15-play, 67-yard drive that ate up around half of the opening quarter.

However, the slow-start bug showed up again when a drive that should’ve ended with points on the board was instead capped by a huge defensive play from Northwestern.

The Indiana defense managed to bail out the boys on the other side of the ball when Northwestern QB Aidan Chiles fumbled a snap before getting brought down in his own end zone for a safety.

The Hoosiers battled through an unusual first half with an offense that looked a little disjointed at times and more penalties than you typically see out of them.

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Worse, they suffered a big blow later in the half when running back Turbo Richard was hit late after going out of bounds and went straight to the locker room.

There was no call on the play, which made a call against Indiana on a similar play moments later very unpopular with the folks at Memorial Stadium.

Indiana tacked on a touchdown and extra point to take a 12-0 lead to the locker room at the half; of course, it didn't hurt that Northwestern rushed for -5 yards through thirty minutes.

But just over halfway through the third quarter, Northwestern paid their first visit to the red zone and managed to get rid of that goose egg.

Chiles wrapped up that drive, despite suffering what sure appeared to be a dislocated finger, and led the Wildcats to the first points Indiana had allowed since their season opener.

And the Wildcats weren't done, with Chiles hitting Griffin Wilde in the back of the end zone at the start of the fourth quarter for an unbelievable touchdown.

Northwestern head coach David Braun opted to go for two and try to tie it up, but the Hoosiers thwarted them on their first and then their second attempts after a penalty.

Indiana answered back with a scoring drive of their own, with Lee Beebe Jr. — who handled most of the legwork after Richard's exit — putting the Hoosiers in the red zone with a 39-yard carry, before punching it in for a touchdown two plays later.

Penalties were a story for Indiana, who averaged just three penalties per game so far this season, but wound up with nearly triple that.

Some were costly too, including a holding penalty that set the Wildcats up on the Indiana 4-yardline, and a few plays later Chiles took matters into his own hands.

Beebe threw down another huge play to put the Hoosiers back in scoring position.

It looked like the Wildcats were on the cusp of another goal-line stand, but a costly defensive pass interference penalty gave Indiana a fresh set of downs, with QB Josh Hoover finding the end zone on a keeper that fooled just about everyone in the building.

Northwestern tacked on a field goal on the ensuing drive, but Indiana managed to recover their attempt at an onside kick.

That slow start habit is still going to be a talking point, as it let Northwestern stay in the game.

And while the injury to Richard is a big concern, Beebe's play — he finished with 203 rushing yards — was a major bright spot.

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The Hoosiers will play Rutgers next weekend, followed by Nebraska, and then a big one against Ohio State on October 17.

Phillies shut out by Rays in opener of final regular-season series, pushing playoff hopes to the brink

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 23:15:28 -0400

Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Trea Turner went 1-for-4 and struck out in the third inning during a critical game with the regular season nearing its end.

Turner’s strikeout prompted boos from many of the Phillies faithful at Citizens Bank Park. Brandon Marsh’s similar whiff in the fourth inning drew the same response from the crowd. The Phillies ultimately suffered a 2-0 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays.

National League Cy Young Award candidate Christopher Sanchez struck out ten Tampa Bay hitters in another strong pitching performance. But the Phillies managed just four total hits against Freddy Peralta on Friday night and were unable to push a runner across home plate.

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The plastic tarp that circles the top of the clubhouse lockers in anticipation of a champagne celebration remained rolled up as tight as the Phillies seem to be of late. A playoff berth that seemed to be a lock just days ago will come down to the final two games.

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The Phillies entered the game with three games remaining and a two-game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks in the race for the final NL wild-card berth. They would have clinched their fifth consecutive postseason appearance with a win over the Rays and an Arizona loss to the San Diego Padres. The Diamondbacks jumped out to an early 4-0 lead in Friday night matchup with the Padres.

The Phillies have dropped three straight games and Friday's loss meant a potential clincher would be delayed until at least until Saturday. Should the race come down to Sunday, the Phillies will be forced to throw ace Zack Wheeler, which would burn him for potential Game 1 or 2 starts in the NL Wild Card Series.

The Phillies were shut out Friday for the 12th game this season and have scored two runs over the last 27 innings.

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NL batting leader and starting second baseman Luis Arraez is out indefinitely with a severely sprained left ankle. All-Star left-handed pitcher Jesús Luzardo has yet to throw a simulated game as he tries to come back from a three-week absence with shoulder inflammation.

Phillies interim manager Don Mattingly insisted ahead of the game his team wasn’t wilting from the pressure.

"These guys have been through it," Mattingly said. "I feel OK. If we’ve got to tell guys at this point that it’s urgent that we win games, then we’re in trouble. The urgency, everybody knows. It’s pretty much right in your face. We’ve just got to go out and play good baseball."

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The Phillies had more than the stakes of Friday night’s game on their minds before first pitch at Citizens Bank Park. The team paused to honor Bill Giles, who died earlier that day at his home in Gladwyne, Pennsylvania. Giles, 92, spent more than a half-century with the franchise, rising from a business executive to owner and CEO. The Phillies held a moment of silence in his honor.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Doctor reveals '10-year rule' for evaluating brain fog and dementia symptoms

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 22:10:03 -0400

Losing a train of thought, struggling to recall once-familiar words, or forgetting the reason for walking into a room can leave older adults wondering if they are experiencing early signs of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

However, these brain blips can often be tied to hormone shifts later in life, medical experts note — and women who experience a loss of estrogen during perimenopause and menopause are particularly affected.

According to Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, a professor of neurology at UCLA and co-founder of Cleopatra RX in Los Angeles, women experiencing memory struggles in midlife should compare their cognitive function to their own past performance before assuming something is seriously wrong.

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"I think they should listen to themselves," Voskuhl told Fox News Digital at the Livelong Women’s Health Summit in New York City on Friday. "They know. Just ask yourself."

The 10-year assessment

To help women gauge whether their memory lapses are tied to hormonal shifts, Voskuhl recommends using a quick benchmark – comparing their current mental state to where it was a decade ago.

"The first question is, are you worse than you were 10 years ago?" she said, referencing the Voskuhl Brain Fog Menopause Assessment used at UCLA's Comprehensive Menopausal Program.

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"Ten years is a pretty good spot. And they think, ‘What was I doing 10 years ago? What was I like? Was I having problems finding the words? Was I at the point where I couldn’t multitask anymore? Was I slow in my processing?’ And they’ll remember."

This comparison can help reveal whether a woman’s cognitive changes may be linked to menopause, while giving patients and physicians a baseline for tracking symptoms over time.

The NFL analogy

Standard memory tests don’t always catch subtle shifts in everyday cognitive function. In the medical community, this is known as subjective cognitive decline, when patients notice changes even though neurological testing remains normal.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that roughly one in nine adults report subjective cognitive decline, yet less than half discuss these memory concerns with a healthcare professional.

To illustrate why routine tests can miss early menopausal brain fog, Voskuhl compared it to a high-performing athlete.

"If somebody is an NFL football player and he says, 'I'm weaker than I used to be,' and I go and do my neurological test, I say, 'Oh no, you're still strong,'" Voskuhl said.

What the player is feeling still matters, even if a standard test shows no obvious decline, she noted.

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Women, too, can often recognize when their cognitive abilities have changed from their own baseline and should trust those observations, according to Voskuhl.

Understanding the difference between hormonal brain fog and neurodegenerative disease comes down to how memory loss impacts daily function, experts agree.

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Menopausal brain fog typically involves temporary, inconsistent lapses like misplacing items or experiencing slower processing speed, but overall reasoning skills and independence remain intact, according to Mayo Clinic. Symptoms often fluctuate and can be exacerbated by stress or poor sleep.

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By contrast, early dementia causes persistent, progressive memory loss that interferes with basic daily tasks like managing finances, following familiar routes while driving or exercising sound judgment.

Amid cognitive concerns, experts advise seeking a full medical evaluation, including brain MRIs or vascular screenings, to rule out underlying issues like blood vessel disease or thyroid imbalances.

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For women who feel their concerns are being dismissed, Voskuhl offered this advice: "When they have doctors who don't listen to them, they need to find another doctor."

Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve voices support for the trans community again after regular season finale vs Fever

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 21:15:37 -0400

Minnesota Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve again voiced support for the transgender community Thursday, as competing rallies over trans athletes in women's sports raged outside her team's game for the third time this season.

Reeve addressed the issue after Minnesota closed the regular season with an 86-66 victory over the Indiana Fever at Target Center. The remarks marked at least the fourth time this season that Reeve has discussed transgender issues during a WNBA media session.

"I think that’s probably one of the more meaningful things that would mark the season for me," Reeve said. "It’s that the transgender community is one that deserves our support, and what is happening in the name of some issues of transgender in sports — it’s really an attack on all transgender community. They don’t want transgender people to exist."

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Reeve previously wore a "Trans Kids Belong" T-shirt during the Lynx’s previous home game against Indiana on Aug. 2. That game came shortly after Fever guard Sophie Cunningham publicly supported keeping biological males out of women’s and girls’ sports.

"Save Women's Sports" activists then held another rally in support of Fever star Sophie Cunningham outside of the Target Center for the second time this season on Thursday, again prompting pro-trans counterprotesters. A similar rally took place outside of the Lynx's game against the Golden State Valkyries on Aug. 19.

During the Aug. 2 game between the Lynx and Fever, Reeve and Cunningham were seen speaking at midcourt before that contest. Reeve later said the two understood they had platforms and shared an interest in educating people despite disagreeing on the issue.

Reeve said Thursday that wearing the shirt was a "small gesture," but messages from transgender people and their families made it one of the most meaningful moments of her season.

"The amount of communication of people who were affected by something as simple as wearing a T-shirt in support of them and helping them be seen — with the platform that we have in professional sports, it was a small gesture by me," Reeve said. "It’s something I believe in, obviously, wholeheartedly."

"If I could have helped just one to feel differently about themselves, because for the transgender community this really is about life and death for them," she continued. "The number of parents of transgender kids that I heard from and how it helped them and their families, it helped their child think differently about themselves and that there is someone in our position, like we have as a leader. To know that there are people out there that believe in them, that they belong."

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Reeve first addressed the subject during a July media availability following the Supreme Court’s rulings upholding state laws restricting transgender participation in women’s sports. She called the political focus on the issue "sort of sickening" and said "exclusion is never the answer."

She returned to it before the Lynx’s Aug. 2 meeting with Indiana, when a rally supporting Cunningham’s position was held outside Target Center. Reeve defended the demonstrators’ right to assemble but rejected the argument that transgender athletes represented one of the most pressing problems facing women’s sports.

"Every kid has a right to sports, regardless of gender diverse, transgender," Reeve said at the time, while acknowledging that eligibility questions become more nuanced after puberty.

Following the game, Reeve addressed her conversation with Cunningham and reiterated her belief that transgender children should have access to sports. She also said activists focusing on transgender participation were overlooking other obstacles facing female athletes, including inadequate facilities, uniforms and locker rooms.

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Cunningham has maintained that her position is not rooted in hatred.

"I think that I am here to extend love," Cunningham previously said. "But I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men."

The debate prompted the WNBA to convene discussions with team leaders during the season. The league said there were no immediate transgender eligibility matters affecting the WNBA, while maintaining that fairness, competitive integrity and inclusion were among its priorities. No transgender woman has played in the league.

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Minnesota finished the regular season with a league-best 33-11 record after Thursday’s victory. Indiana fell to 28-16 and entered the playoffs as the No. 6 seed.

Fulton Sheen became a TV sensation preaching faith, morality and warnings Michael Knowles says still resonate

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 20:43:36 -0400

Archbishop Fulton Sheen drew tens of millions of Americans to their TV sets with little more than a chalkboard, a cape and a message about Christianity, morality and the threat of communism.

More than seven decades later, conservative commentator Michael Knowles said he believes the legendary Catholic broadcaster could deliver essentially the same message and immediately find himself branded a "far-right extremist."

"I think he would be taking his first breath to utter the first syllable of the very first sentence just when someone called him a far-right extremist," Knowles told Fox News Digital. "He wouldn't need to change his message."

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Sheen was formally beatified, or formally "blessed" by the Roman Catholic Church Thursday in St. Louis, marking a major step toward possible sainthood for one of the most recognizable religious figures of 20th century America.

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump joined Catholics celebrating Sheen's life, the White House called him the first American-born bishop to be beatified by the Catholic Church.

Long before podcasts and social media gave religious figures direct access to enormous audiences, Sheen became one of America's most successful religious broadcasters.

His radio program, "The Catholic Hour," reached more than 4 million people, according to Vatican News.

He later made the leap to television, where "Life Is Worth Living" eventually captivated an estimated 30 million viewers. The format was strikingly simple.

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Wearing his clerical robes and standing before a chalkboard, Sheen spoke directly to viewers about faith, morality, suffering and the dignity of the human person, weaving theology with stories and humor.

"He was the very first televangelist," said Knowles, who argued Sheen understood something about mass communication that remains true in the digital age. "He went where the people were."

Sheen's reach extended far beyond a conventional religious audience.

The White House also noted that he competed with entertainment giants Milton Berle and Frank Sinatra in weekly ratings, appeared on the cover of Time magazine and won an Emmy for outstanding television personality.

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Among the millions of Americans who encountered Sheen through television was a boy who would eventually become the first American pope. Pope Leo XIV has recalled encountering Sheen's evangelization while growing up. Decades later, Leo approved Sheen's beatification in St. Louis.

Knowles said Sheen would likely have embraced podcasts, social media and other modern platforms with the same enthusiasm. But the message delivered through those platforms, Knowles argued, could put Sheen at odds with parts of modern American culture.

Asked what would get the bishop "canceled" first in 2026, his Catholicism, his anti-communism or his refusal to apologize for either, Knowles said the three were difficult to separate.

"His absolutely unapologetic apologetics," Knowles said.

Knowles argued that Sheen's traditional Catholic teachings about sex, marriage and human nature would draw particularly fierce criticism today.

"They would have tried to cancel him," Knowles said, before adding that Sheen would ultimately have "the last laugh in heaven."

Sheen's opposition to communism was central to his public ministry and was emphasized by the White House as Americans marked his beatification. The presidential message described Sheen as bringing Christian teaching to a world "threatened by the titanic forces of communism."

The White House also recalled Sheen warning in the 1960s about what he described as a destructive impulse sweeping American society.

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"Our nation is too full of those that are crying, ‘Down,'" Sheen said in the remarks shared by the White House, before listing schools, churches, teachers, government and police. "Can you build anything down?"

Knowles said Sheen's warnings continue to resonate because the underlying debate about human nature has not disappeared in modern times.

He tied the recurring appeal of communist and utopian political movements to the Christian doctrine of original sin, arguing that political systems fail when they begin from a mistaken conception of human nature.

"When their policies are implemented, they fail," Knowles said.

Yet Sheen's journey to Thursday's beatification ultimately rests not on his television ratings or political commentary, but on the Catholic Church's assessment of his religious life and a miracle attributed to his intercession.

His cause for sainthood opened in Peoria, Illinois, in 2002. The miracle accepted for Sheen's beatification centered on a child born in 2010 without a heartbeat or respiration, according to an account published by Vatican News. After 61 minutes, the child was revived and ultimately recovered to full health.

Pope Francis approved the miracle in 2019, clearing a major hurdle in Sheen's path toward beatification. The Catholic Church's recognition of Sheen was not presented merely as a celebration of his TV celebrity.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, who represented Pope Leo at Thursday's beatification Mass, emphasized Sheen's relationship with Christ and missionary work rather than his fame. In an apostolic letter read during the ceremony, Leo described Sheen as an evangelist who used modern communications to proclaim the Gospel.

Sheen's connections to the modern papacy stretch much further back. He participated in the Second Vatican Council, where, according to a biography published by Vatican News, he encountered two clerics who would eventually become popes: Archbishop Karol Wojtyla, the future Pope John Paul II, and Father Joseph Ratzinger, the future Pope Benedict XVI.

Shortly before Sheen's death, his path crossed John Paul II's again. During the pope's 1979 visit to New York, a physically weakened Sheen approached John Paul at St. Patrick's Cathedral and attempted to kneel before him. John Paul lifted him up and embraced him, according to the Vatican account.

"You have written and spoken well of the Lord Jesus Christ," John Paul told him. "You are a loyal son of the Church."

Sheen died just two months later on Dec. 9, 1979.

For Knowles, however, Sheen's ability to draw an enormous audience wasn't simply a product of theology or the novelty of television.

"He took life seriously. He just didn't take himself seriously," Knowles said.

That combination allowed Sheen to tackle weighty subjects without becoming ponderous, Knowles argued, and helped make complex religious and philosophical arguments accessible to an audience far beyond practicing Catholics.

People might discover Sheen through his anti-communism position, cultural traditionalism or even an appreciation for formal dress among people tired of seeing "sweatpants at the airport," Knowles joked.

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But beneath the television celebrity and political commentary was a priest who maintained a daily Holy Hour before the Eucharist throughout his ministry, a practice Sheen called "the hour that makes my day," according to the Vatican News biography.

Admiring Sheen is one thing, Knowles suggested, but following his example is another.

"It would be far better for you and for all of us to follow his example," Knowles said.

WATCH: Former Dem Lt Gov reveals why he resigned after sexual harassment probe rocked state

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 20:11:18 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: Former New Jersey Lt. Gov. Dale Caldwell insisted on camera Friday that he resigned "to make a difference" rather than impede Gov. Mikie Sherrill, while directly disputing the findings of a sexual harassment and ethics probe that forced him from office.

Caldwell’s departure came just one day after Democratic Gov. Mikie Sherrill publicly called for his resignation following a months-long independent ethics investigation. The 61-page report described repeated ethics violations, including a "substantiated" finding of sexual harassment and repeated improper efforts to secure a state job promotion for a woman with whom he was romantically involved.

Speaking on camera for the first time since his resignation to a reporter outside his home, Caldwell slammed the state's investigative report as "specious," "ridiculous" and "poorly done," adding he resigned to keep any "distraction" away from the Sherrill administration.

"I'm not resigning because of that ridiculous report," Caldwell said on camera. "I'm resigning because I don't want to be a distraction to the Mikie Sherrill administration.

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"If I'm going to impede anybody else's ability to be successful, then I can move on to something else," Caldwell added, citing his history as a university president and working at the Deloitte consulting firm.

When pressed about the allegations in the report, Caldwell encouraged people to go read it for themselves but said he was only providing specifics through his attorney for now.

"I just think it was poorly done. It was poorly done. I mean, I just think that there are ways that they could have done better. And I was just disappointed in the legal, the legal work in that," Caldwell added.

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Caldwell also mentioned that he spoke with Gov. Sherrill via text message Friday, noting "she's a wonderful person" and "she really means well" but did not provide any more specifics on that conversation.

"This is one of those things that happens. And as I said, I'm going to continue to work as a private citizen," Caldwell said. "I'm freed up to do a lot more things. So, I'm looking forward to supporting the administration and really supporting folks."

According to the probe into Caldwell's behavior, conducted by an independent law firm hired by the state, Caldwell violated ethics rules after telling a female staffer that "you young women are looking for young sperm" after she told him her younger friend was not interested in a romantic relationship with him.

Investigators concluded the remark constituted sexual harassment and found Caldwell’s denial that he made it was not credible. Other findings from the probe included violations of the code of conduct and ethics around bringing guests to ticketed events without reimbursement and seeking a promotion for a state employee with whom he had a romantic relationship.

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Lawyers for Caldwell said Thursday they "strongly disputed the three findings in the investigation" because its conclusions "go further than the evidence supports," according to NBC News.

But Sherrill pushed back on the criticism from Thomas Calcagni, Caldwell's lawyer, of the investigation, saying she thought it was "very thorough," adding it "lays out exactly what the investigation looked into, who they contacted and spoke to, and I think lays out a pattern and practice of long-term concerning behavior."

She also called the claims of sexual harassment "substantiated" and said Caldwell continued to violate standards despite "multiple" violations and ethics trainings.

Caldwell was also serving as New Jersey’s secretary of state, heading an office that oversees elections. Sherrill said Friday that the state’s acting comptroller, Shirley Emehelu, would become acting secretary of state with just weeks to go until the midterm elections.

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Under the New Jersey State Constitution, a vacancy in the office of the lieutenant governor must be permanently filled by the governor within 45 days. Addressing the transition, Sherrill confirmed she will appoint a permanent successor within that constitutionally mandated 45-day window but stated she does not plan to name an acting lieutenant governor in the interim.

Without an interim lieutenant governor in place, the line of gubernatorial succession falls to Senate President Nicholas Scutari in the event of an emergency or if Sherrill leaves the state before a permanent appointment is made.

UCF Knights unveil incredibly on-brand helmet sponsorship deal with Walt Disney World

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 20:00:46 -0400

While it still kind of stings to see it, there's no denying that college football teams throwing sponsorships on their helmets is here to stay.

And if that's the case, you might as well get one that fits your school, and boy, is that what the University of Central Florida has gone out and done.

Because, when you think of UCF's hometown of Orlando, there's a good chance you think of one place: Walt Disney World.

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The Knights will hit the field on Saturday against TCU — the start of their Big 12 slate for the year — with a new Walt Disney World decal on the back of their helmets.

If you're going to cut a deal with a sponsor, you may as well have it make sense, and this one does.

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After the 2017 season, the Knights celebrated their Peach Bowl win over Auburn and their National Championship (Colley matrix; look it up) with a parade through the Magic Kingdom.

I was there. I believe I ate a Mickey-shaped soft pretzel that day. It was great.

Oddly enough, Disney seems to be really into sponsoring brain buckets as of late.

Out on the West Coast, Disneyland was recently announced as the new helmet sponsor for the Anaheim Ducks.

If there are any teams in Paris, Shanghai, Tokyo, or Hong Kong looking for helmet sponsors, maybe give them a call because they're cutting checks right now.

As for the Knights, they'll enter Saturday's game at the Bounce House with a 2-1 record and will be hoping to perform better in conference play since joining the Big 12.

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At least win or lose, some fans will be happy, thanks to the school's new ticket option that went viral, which offers unlimited hot dogs for the first part of the game.

Bill Burr tells healthcare CEOs to probe what motivated Luigi Mangione instead of adding security

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 19:56:11 -0400

Comedian Bill Burr suggested during an interview published Tuesday that the Luigi Mangione murder case involving the killing of a healthcare CEO should prompt healthcare companies to examine their policies.

"I mean, if you look at all of this stuff, like the response to the Luigi [Mangione] thing, it wasn’t, ‘Maybe we need to look at what we’re doing if it makes some crazy person do this.’ [Healthcare executives’] response was to take their faces off the internet and get security," Burr said in an interview with Rolling Stone.

"It’s like, you don’t think you need to examine this?" he continued. "You’re not the president. You’re just the CEO of a business. Why do you need this level of security?"

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, a husband and father of two children, was murdered in December 2024. Mangione pleaded guilty in federal court Aug. 14 to murdering Thompson.

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Attorney Rafael Mangual, the Nick Ohnell Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, spoke to Fox News Digital about Burr's comments.

"The only way to understand the comedian’s comments is as an endorsement of brutal and extrajudicial violence as a legitimate means of expressing one’s frustrations with corporate behavior," he said. "The fact of the matter is that Brian Thompson was a victim of a cold-blooded murder. Full stop.

"Luigi Mangione isn’t a hero or a martyr," Mangual continued. "He shot a man in the back for no other reason than that he objected to the business he was in.

"Expressing anything other than condemnation of such an act is to open an enormous can of worms that Burr clearly hasn’t contemplated," he added. "His remarks reveal that he hasn’t grappled with the most basic questions. For example, if homicide is on the table as a way to express various gripes, where do we draw the line? Who decides which lives are on the table? What pain is someone deeply offended by a comedian allowed to inflict as a result?

"I prefer these decisions be made by legislatures, judges and juries," Mangual said. "So too should Mr. Burr."

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Burr was once known for being a politically incorrect comedian but acknowledged to Rolling Stone that his perspective has changed, noting how he has distanced himself from past language about women.

"This whole journey of being a comedian is when I stopped doing this and started doing a little more of that. Like, 'Hey, Bill, maybe chicks aren't psychos. Maybe you're bringing something to the party, you know?'" he said. "My whole view on women is changed now. I look back on all of the dumb s--- that I said. It had nothing to do with how I felt.

"I wanted to be married. I wanted to have kids. I just didn't know how to do it. So, what did I do? I blamed what I wanted. It's stupid. I missed out on a lot of good times, being that brooding guy."

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Fox News' Michael Ruiz and Maria Paronich contributed to this report.

St Paul police chief sues mayor, alleging she called herself a 'MILF,' sexually harassed him and retaliated

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 19:53:07 -0400

St. Paul, Minnesota, Mayor Kaohly Her made explicit sexual comments — including innuendos about body parts — and engaged in a campaign of harassment and retaliation against the city's police chief, according to a lawsuit.

Police Chief Axel Henry, who has served as St. Paul's top law enforcement officer since 2022, alleges Her made multiple inappropriate comments, including one incident in which she referred to herself as a "MILF" and made sexually suggestive comments regarding his genitalia, according to the 73-page complaint.

The suit also alleges Her made unwanted physical contact with Henry, including placing her hand on his upper thigh beneath a conference table during a budget meeting.

NEW JERSEY GOV MIKIE SHERRILL CALLS ON LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR TO RESIGN AFTER SEXUAL HARASSMENT INVESTIGATION

In addition, Her reportedly told the chief that her marriage was in trouble, stating that she and Henry "needed to be friends" or "this was not going to work" and emphasizing that they needed a "close relationship," according to local reporting on the suit.

The lawsuit further details allegations that Her frequently visited the police department gym when she knew Henry was present, referred to him and other employees as "beefy" and "simulated an orgasm" while exerting herself near them during workouts.

GOP LAWMAKER'S GIFTS, 'EFFUSIVE AFFECTION' TOWARD YOUNG STAFFERS DETAILED IN EXPLOSIVE ETHICS REPORT

During an awards ceremony where Henry was wearing a Mobile Field Force ribbon abbreviated "MFF," Her allegedly asked what the letters stood for before replying, "Oh, I thought it said MILF so maybe I could get one."

The filing outlines another incident from December, when Henry met with Her and St. Paul Port Authority President Todd Hurley at a cigar lounge to discuss moving the downtown police station. During the meeting, Her allegedly threatened that she would tell people the chief "grabbed her a--" if she did not get her way.

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In February, after Henry and a colleague used personal vacation time to visit a golf simulator in Woodbury, Minnesota, Her unexpectedly showed up, the lawsuit claims. Upon arriving, Her allegedly told them she "had to come like this because you guys wouldn’t invite me" and staying for approximately 20 minutes.

TENNESSEE COPS RAIDED MAN'S HOME AFTER HE CRITICIZED OFFICER FOR SPEEDING: LAWSUIT

After Henry filed an internal complaint regarding her behavior, Her and her administration "embarked on a campaign to retaliate against and discredit Chief Henry," the suit alleges. Henry claims city officials excluded him from decisions, withheld requested records and released a "sanitized" two-page summary of an independent investigation to downplay her conduct.

"An independent investigation did not substantiate claims of sexual harassment or retaliation against any city employee," Her's office said, according to Fox Minneapolis.

"The mayor will continue to lead Saint Paul and follow the recommendations of the report. Beyond that, the City of Saint Paul doesn’t comment on active litigation."

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Earlier this month, Her officially transferred her personal security detail and driver services from the St. Paul Police Department to the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Her's office.

Common kitchen staple may sharpen your brain, and it only takes 2 tablespoons

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 19:45:53 -0400

A couple of daily tablespoons of a common pantry staple often used to make pasta sauce richer were linked to better attention and processing speed, a small new study found.

Researchers in Spain found that participants who ate about two tablespoons of tomato paste every day for three months scored slightly higher on tests of concentration, processing speed and associative memory than when they followed a diet low in lycopene, the red antioxidant pigment found in tomatoes and other fruits.

Forty-two healthy adults ages 40 to 55 completed the study and spent three months on each diet with a one-month washout period in between. When they ate the low-lycopene diet, they stuck to their usual eating habits and avoided foods such as tomatoes.

JUST ONE SMALL SERVING OF ULTRA-PROCESSED FOOD A DAY LINKED TO HIGHER DISEASE RISK, MAJOR STUDY FINDS

During the tomato paste phase, they consumed 0.5 grams per kilogram of body weight each day, averaging about 35 grams daily. Afterward, participants scored an average of 7.2 points higher for concentration, 8.3 points higher for processing speed and 0.8 points higher on a test matching faces with names.

The trial used a randomized crossover design, meaning participants served as their own comparisons before and after eating the tomato paste.

Their blood tests also showed a borderline increase in BDNF, a protein involved in brain-cell growth and adaptability, according to the research.

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Brain scans in a small subset of participants also showed changes in resting connectivity, which is how different brain regions work when a person is not focused on a specific task.

Researchers said the pattern could suggest more efficient brain communication, but the small sample means it does not prove a meaningful brain benefit.

The study, published in the journal Antioxidants earlier this year, did not show that tomato paste prevents cognitive decline or disease, but it offers an early look at how lycopene-rich tomato foods may affect the brain, the researchers said. They called the findings preliminary and said larger studies are needed.

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Dr. John Showalter, a Pennsylvania-based internal medicine physician and chief operating officer of Linus Health, said, while the trial was small, it fits into a larger body of research that says people need naturally red foods in their diets.

The low-lycopene phase may be the study's most telling comparison, Showalter told Fox News Digital. Rather than showing tomato paste acts as a standalone cognitive enhancer, he said, the results suggest that restricting lycopene-rich foods may leave the brain functioning less well.

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"We know that people that have low lycopene levels have a higher mortality rate, they have more cardiovascular events and there's been increasing literature that low lycopene is bad for your brain," he said.

Watermelon, papaya and red peppers also contain lycopene, though cooked and concentrated tomato foods, including ketchup and sun-dried tomatoes, can provide especially high amounts, Showalter added.

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Fox News Digital reached out to the researchers for comment.

Soccer player gets smoked by lawn roller during halftime warm-up in wild moment caught on camera

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 19:15:07 -0400

Soccer doesn't get enough credit for being a dangerous sport. You’ve got minimal protective gear on; bodies are flying everywhere and, at times, you’ve even got to look out for turf maintenance equipment.

One soccer player in Thailand learned this the hard way, and it was all caught on camera.

Andros Townsend previously played in the English Premier League for Crystal Palace, Everton and Luton Town, but these days he's suiting up for Thai club PT Prachuap.

ROGUE PARROT ATTACKS PLAYERS DURING BRAZILIAN U-15 SOCCER GAME, THEN COMES BACK AND DOES IT AGAIN

The first half had ended during the club's match against fellow Thai outfit Pattani when a grounds crew member driving a lawn roller broke the biggest unwritten rule of athletic turf maintenance: don't run over the players.

That's an important one.

That was quite the scary moment, and fortunately Townsend was alright.

In fact, he handled that better than some soccer players handle having an opponent's forearm brush against them, and even played in that same match.

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Now, I hate to be "that guy," but was the ground crew really that far behind on their duties that they had to bust out the lawn roller while players were trying to warm up?

I'm not going to sit here and pretend to be some expert turf whisperer, but that seems like it should've been knocked out earlier in the day. Even if it needs a little off the top to keep things crisp and level, maybe wait until the pitch is clear.

Maybe something happened that day that required some mid-game lawn rolling, but if that's the case, you have to be ready to slam on the brakes if a player takes off upfield for a pass.

That did not happen.

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At least Townsend was ready when called upon and entered the match as a substitute. His team went on to win, but the accident has led to an investigation.

Fox News Entertainment newsletter: William won't repeat Charles’ jealousy; Harry's push sparks ‘contradiction’

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 19:03:40 -0400

POWER COUPLE - Prince William refuses to repeat King Charles’ jealousy as Kate Middleton captivates royal crowds: experts

UNEASY HOMECOMING - Prince Harry’s push to give Archie, Lilibet royal upbringing exposes ‘contradiction’ after palace exit: expert

WAR OF WORDS - Princess Diana's brother Charles Spencer says King Charles 'gaslit' him over memoir claims

INNER CIRCLE - Meghan Markle’s outing with Ellen DeGeneres exposes 'irony' in royal’s ‘quiet country life’: expert

Affordable jewelry that looks and feels expensive — all under $100

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:37:37 -0400

Adding new jewelry to your collection doesn't have to be expensive. We found affordable picks from Swarovski, Pandora and Melinda Maria, among others. Standout deals include a Swarovski tennis bracelet for 57% off on Amazon and a cross dangle charm for just $55.

Lab-grown diamonds

Brands like Brilliant Earth and Quince offer lab-grown diamonds and ethically sourced jewelry for a more affordable, sustainable option.

Brass and moon stone earrings: $8 (59% off)
Dangle earrings with turquoise gemstone: $14.99 (25% off)

Quince diamond studs: $98 (27% off)

Original price: $135

These 14K gold lab-grown diamond studs have a delicate, understated look with subtle shimmer. Wear them alone or pair them with other earrings for a layered look. Priced under $100, they’re an accessible way to gift diamond studs.

Diamond bar bracelet: $95

This diamond bar bracelet offers a contemporary look that works for both casual and dressier outfits. The adjustable clasp extends up to 7 inches for a comfortable, secure fit.

North Star diamond pendant: $95

Inspired by the night sky, this North Star pendant features an ethically sourced diamond at its center for a timeless, celestial look. It's crafted with repurposed precious metals, offering a more sustainable take on fine jewelry.

Swarovski

Swarovski is known for its genuine crystal jewelry and tons of styles are on sale right now on Amazon.

Stilla Attract Trilogy drop earrings: $60 (50% off)
Stilla pear pendant necklace: $74.49 (37% off)
Una Angelic bracelet: $68.40 (15% off)
Constella crystal pendant necklace: $65.10 (13% off)

Emily tennis bracelet: $69 (57% off)

Original price: $159

Save over $90 on Swarovski's Emily tennis bracelet, a versatile piece that looks beautiful on its own or stacked with other bracelets. The classic tennis bracelet includes a row of white crystals and a secure clasp to keep it in place.

Una Angelic stud earrings: $59.50 (30% off)

Original price: $85

Add a refined touch with these Una Angelic stud earrings, a modern take on a classic style. The simple, polished design catches the light for a subtle sparkle, making them a reliable choice for both everyday wear and more dressed-up looks.

Swarovski Lifelong Heart bracelet: $90

Swarovski’s Lifelong Heart bracelet elevates a classic bangle with a more detailed design. Crystals line the band, while a rose-gold heart charm adds a pop of color.

Melinda Maria

Melinda Maria makes unique jewelry that blends gold, silver and different stones that blend with any type of outfit.

She's a Boss Signet Ring: $33 (49% off)
Baroness 6mm Studs: $39 (29% off)
The Maven Huggies: $46 (29% off)

Ashley Venice ear crawler: $95

Go beyond traditional earrings and accent your outfit with this ear crawler. Four different size earrings crawl up the curve of your ear, catching the light with every head turn.

Love Letters pendant necklace: $95

Whether you want to wear your initials or a loved one's initials, this Love Letters pendant necklace acts as a beautiful accent piece. A simple silver-plated heart shines against the faux diamond letter of your choice.

Hello Gorgeous 10mm studs: $75

These extra-large studs pair gold-plated brass with bold simulated diamonds to create an elegant yet affordable look. They're simple enough to accessorize with everyday outfits, but still sparkly enough for evening wear.

Sterling silver jewelry

Add silver jewelry to your collection with picks from Kate Spade, Baublebar and Alex and Ani.

Senteria 925 twisted hoops: $9.90 (24% off)
Infinity birthstone heart necklace: $39.99 (20% off)
Cross pendant necklace: $36.99 (16% off)
Sterling silver cuff bangles: $13.98 (13% off)

Kate Spade bangle: $58

This Kate Spade plated metal bangle features delicate crystal accents that add interest without being overly flashy. It layers easily with other jewelry and includes a hinged clasp for secure, everyday wear.

Baublebar sterling silver hoops: $48

A classic pair of silver hoops is an easy addition to any jewelry collection. Lightweight and available in sterling silver, they’re designed for comfortable, daily wear. Add a single pair to your stack or mix sizes for a more layered look.

Alex and Ani heart chain bracelet: $65.90 (6% off)

Original price: $70.40

This Alex and Ani heart chain bracelet has a simple, meaningful design with a polished finish. The adjustable pull chain expands from 5.5 to 9.5 inches for a customizable fit, while the nickel-free construction makes it a good option for sensitive skin.

Pandora

Pandora is known for its charm bracelets, a staple in many jewelry collections.

Infinity stones ring: $80.50 (30% off)
Sparkling twisted lines ring: $94 (30% off)
Disney skull glow-in-the-dark charm: $63 (30% off)

Moments heart clasp snake chain bracelet: $88

Pandora's heart bracelet is a polished update to a classic chain, complete with a built-in pendant. Wear it on its own for a simple look or customize it with additional charms to create a more personal piece. For added convenience, these three Pandora pieces are available on Amazon and are Prime delivery-eligible.

Sparkling cross dangle charm: $55

This cross dangle charm adds a refined accent to any Pandora bracelet. A silver setting and crystal details create a clean, understated look.

For more deals, visit www.foxnews.com/deals

Family roots charm: $45

This family roots charm features a bold tree motif on a bead-style pendant that slides easily onto any Pandora Moments bracelet. It's a simple way to represent family ties within your collection.

If you're an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items sent to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.

Massachusetts Communist Party chapter attacks Boston Globe over lesbian bar story

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 18:50:24 -0400

A Massachusetts chapter of the Communist Party took aim at The Boston Globe on Thursday over its reporting on a lesbian bar that has been criticized for lifting its mask mandate for just one night a week.

The Boston Globe published an article about Last Ditch, a lesbian bar in Greenfield, Massachusetts, that sparked community backlash after it announced it would be making Saturdays mask-optional. The community responded with accusations of ableism and some even called for a boycott of the business.

The Western Massachusetts CPUSA posted a statement on X and on its website calling for solidarity with "the queer and transgender people of our region facing heightened national scrutiny."

On X, the graphic that included the statement suggested the Globe was part of "MAGA Media," saying, "The Boston Globe, an ally of corporate lobbies across the state, stands on the other side. After endorsing notoriously transphobic Rep. Seth Moulton’s failed Senate campaign, the Globe has pivoted to courting the outrage of the national extreme right and directing it at our region."

BOSTON GLOBE OP-ED SAYS VIOLENCE AGAINST TRANSGENDER PEOPLE IS 'GOING DOWN' DESPITE ACTIVIST CLAIMS

The statement argued the article about the Greenfield lesbian bar was "not newsworthy."

"The September 22nd article is not newsworthy, except in the context of the upcoming midterm elections in which transgender rights are a central political issue, as well as a far-right national consumer base which makes the scrutiny of transgender lives profitable," it read.

"The Western Massachusetts CPUSA rejects the use of conflicts among LGBTQIA+ people and organizations as a tool of division by the extreme right. We reaffirm our solidarity with all those struggling against the genocide of transgender people," the statement added.

The Boston Globe's director of communications, Adam Bagni responded to the criticism in a statement to Fox News Digital.

"The Boston Globe is locally owned, and our newsroom makes editorial decisions independently, guided by our commitment to fair and accurate reporting," the statement said.

DOUG SCHOEN: WHY DEMOCRATS CANNOT BREAK FREE FROM THE FAR LEFT’S TRANSGENDER DEMANDS

Some critics accused Last Ditch's owners of putting disabled people at risk and compared the policy change to a "mass disabling event" and a "eugenicist" attack while also wishing violence against the establishment, according to the Globe.

"I hope your venue gets firebombed for robbing my fellow immunocompromised people of their Saturday plans just to scrape extra revenue from ablists [sic]," one commenter wrote on the bar's social media post announcing the change.

"People like you kill disabled people in the name of your own leisure and convenience," wrote another.

"Just say you’re being complicit in a mass disabling event and get it over with," a third said.

"When y'all close, let the record state it was ableism + complying in advance, because that's what it is," another wrote.

HOW THE MEDIA, IN THE DIGITAL AGE, HELP FUEL A CLIMATE OF ANGER AND VIOLENCE

This comes years after the COVID-19 pandemic was declared over by the federal government in 2023. State and local governments, as well as most businesses across the country, lifted masking requirements several years ago. Additionally, Greenfield had not reported a COVID-19 case in more than two months, according to the Globe.

The backlash came as the bar was already struggling financially under its unusual business model, which includes rules such as "Nobody will be barred from entry due to lack of funds."

"It is with love we inform our immunocompromised disabled divas we will be opening Saturday nights as mask optional," Last Ditch wrote in an August Instagram post that ignited the backlash.

The bar first attempted to ease tensions and apologize for its post, writing: "We are sorry for our passive and dismissive tone of our change to the norms and schedule impacting the most intersectional of us. We understand everyone faces different intersections, and we are always working to consider all needs fully."

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On Thursday, the bar called the Globe's article "abysmal journalism" in a post on Instagram.

Last Ditch also issued a call for donations and support, saying, "Operating a venue is expensive, especially when prioritizing community over profit. Our owners work on a volunteer basis (that's right, none of our owners receive a wage or salary) so every dollar we receive can be reinvested in Last Ditch to pay employees & performers, restock product, make necessary renovations to the space, advertise, and so. much. more."

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Fox News' Landon Mion contributed to this report.

Family of paralyzed Marine vet allegedly shot by migrant speaks out as health issue could delay testimony

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 18:37:32 -0400

A Marine veteran left paralyzed after being shot while working as a security guard was slated to testify against his alleged illegal immigrant attacker in court next week until a sudden, severe downturn in his health forced him back into the hospital, his family told Fox News Digital.

Jimmy Friesenhahn, a combat veteran with multiple overseas deployments, has been hospitalized for at least a week due to complications from a blood clot after an August surgery, according to his sister, Becky Borjon.

"We encountered some medical setbacks, and he's been hospitalized for a week now," Borjon said. "Prior to that, he was in inpatient rehab for three weeks following a surgery he had on Aug. 28, and things just kind of took a turn."

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Friesenhahn was expected to take the stand in a Bexar County courtroom during the upcoming trial of Wilmer Vladimir Ruiz Ortega, 29, the Honduran national accused of shooting him.

"Trial is scheduled to begin next week on the 20th," Borjon said. "I believe they will start with jury selection and go from there. Jimmy was expected to appear and testify on his own behalf, and we are still hoping he will be able to do that."

Ortega was arrested after allegedly shooting Friesenhahn at El Patio Sports Bar in San Antonio May 4, 2025. Police said Friesenhahn spotted a gun in Ortega’s pocket and tried to stop him from entering the venue. A struggle ensued, during which Ortega allegedly fired multiple rounds.

Friesenhahn was struck twice in his bulletproof vest and once in the neck. The wound to his neck left him paralyzed, unable to speak and in need of full-time medical care.

ICE LODGES DETAINER FOR ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT WITH LENGTHY RAP SHEET AFTER ALLEGED JEALOUSY-FUELED KILLING

Ortega was charged with aggravated assault against a security officer and illegal entry into the United States. He is also the subject of federal immigration proceedings.

The shooting sparked outrage from Friesenhahn’s family, who pointed to Ortega’s extensive prior criminal record in Texas. Court records show Ortega was arrested for driving while intoxicated in October 2020, followed by an August 2023 arrest for a probation violation.

He was arrested two more times for failing to appear in court, including a November 2024 arrest.

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT CHARGED WITH BRUTAL SLAYING ONE DAY AFTER CALIFORNIA JUDGE RELEASED HIM: DHS

"His last court appearance was in March 2025, and Jimmy was shot on May 4, 2025," said Emmanuel Martinez, Friesenhahn’s brother-in-law. "At that point, the DA’s office should have complied with removal orders and turned him over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement."

Borjon echoed those concerns, questioning why Ortega remained free despite repeated offenses.

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT ACCUSED OF FENTANYL DEALING LINKED TO VIRGINIA HIGH SCHOOL OVERDOSES

"I’m not opposed to immigration, but there is a process set in place for a reason," Borjon said. "This guy was arrested multiple times, released on bond and never reported. He had active warrants for repeated offenses while missing court appearances.

"Those warrants should have been acted upon, and maybe we wouldn’t be here today. This guy should have been returned to his country."

Friesenhahn’s family remains determined to see the case prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, while coming to terms with the reality of his life-altering injuries.

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"Unfortunately, we don’t see this as a road to recovery because there is no recovering from an injury like this. We see it as the beginning of a lifelong fight," Borjon said. "My brother will never walk again. He will never be able to get married or raise a family."

The Bexar County District Attorney's Office declined to comment to Fox News Digital on the status of the case.

Olympic champion Nancy Hogshead honored for advocacy as she pushes WNBA on female eligibility rules

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 18:30:04 -0400

Three-time Olympic swimming champion Nancy Hogshead was honored Thursday for her work advocating for female athletes as she continues to push the WNBA to formally adopt female-only eligibility rules.

Hogshead received the U.S. Olympians and Paralympians Association’s Dorothy Franey Langkop Ambassador Award, which recognizes continued service to the Olympic and Paralympic movement after an athlete’s competitive career.

"It was just really nice to be recognized by my peers," Hogshead told OutKick in an exclusive interview Friday.

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The civil rights attorney and founder of Champion Women has spent years working on Title IX compliance, protections against sexual abuse in sports and the preservation of female athletic categories.

Her current efforts include a petition calling on the WNBA to explicitly define "woman" as female for eligibility purposes. The petition, launched in August, had accumulated more than 21,000 verified signatures as of Friday.

Hogshead said hundreds of Olympians and Paralympians have also backed the broader effort to preserve women’s sports for female athletes.

"We have 520 Olympians and Paralympians that have signed on to our petition," she told OutKick. "People who are in sport, they want sport to be formally sex-segregated."

US WOMEN OLYMPIANS REACT TO HISTORIC SUPREME COURT RULING ON THE PROTECTION OF WOMEN'S SPORTS

Hogshead wore an XX-XY Athletics shirt to Thursday’s ceremony and said she received an overwhelmingly positive response from other attendees.

"People came up to me all night long and were saying, ‘Thank you so much for what you’re wearing. Thanks so much for what you’re doing. I have daughters. I have granddaughters,’" she said.

During her acceptance speech, Hogshead argued that Olympic and Paralympic athletes have a responsibility to use their platforms to defend the principles that gave them opportunities to compete.

"Every girl in this country who gets a team, a scholarship, a locker room, a coach and a fair sport is standing on what we built," Hogshead said.

"My work has been to defend and further those wins, to make sure that women’s sports remain a space for females, to make sure that girls’ and women’s programs are funded the way that the law requires, not the way that’s necessarily convenient, and to hold our movement accountable for abusive coaches and for the safety of our athletes."

The WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement states that only women are eligible to play in the league but does not further define the term or establish a specific transgender eligibility policy.

The league addressed the debate in August, saying there were "no immediate eligibility matters affecting the WNBA" and denouncing what it called "bad-faith efforts" to demean or marginalize others. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert also said the league would continue discussions with the players’ association while prioritizing fair competition and the integrity of the game.

No transgender woman has played in the WNBA.

Hogshead nevertheless argued the league should establish its rules before a dispute arises.

"Boys and men have invaded virtually every aspect of girls’ sports," she told OutKick. "It’s inevitable that, of course, a male will come in. And why not? You’re the WNBA. Come up with eligibility criteria that is supportive of a female-only category."

Hogshead won three gold medals and one silver at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Champion Women says its work also helped support the federal legislation that established the U.S. Center for SafeSport and strengthened oversight of abuse within the Olympic movement.

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"We didn’t inherit the Olympic dream to keep it for ourselves," Hogshead said at the conclusion of her speech. "We inherited it to pass it on."

Supreme Court blocks Missouri from using new congressional map in 2026 election

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 18:27:23 -0400

The Supreme Court on Friday ordered Missouri to use its 2022 congressional map in the 2026 election, blocking the state from using a newer map that could have benefited Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections.

The unsigned order drew no noted dissents, with the justices making clear that lower courts should neither prohibit use of Missouri’s 2022 map nor require the state to use the 2025 map.

"The District Court and Court of Appeals should not enjoin or otherwise prohibit the use of the 2022 map in the 2026 congressional election in Missouri," the order states.

MISSOURI'S REDISTRICTING MESS CREATED AN ELECTION PROBLEM SUPREME COURT HAS DAYS TO UNTANGLE

"And the District Court and Court of Appeals should not order or otherwise require Missouri to use the 2025 map in the 2026 congressional election in Missouri."

The ruling effectively ends the immediate legal wrangling over which congressional map Missouri will use for the 2026 election, leaving the older boundaries in place.

The Supreme Court ordered Missouri to use its 2022 congressional map for the 2026 election rather than the state’s newer 2025 map.

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This is a developing story; check back later for updates.

Ted Nugent proves he still lives up to Motor City Madman moniker as he poses with massive buck

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 18:10:31 -0400

Ted Nugent is something of a modern-day Renaissance Man.

The one they call Uncle Ted is a rock god, a conservationist, an unabashed conservative voice and a hell of a hunter to boot.

And nowhere was that more evident than the latest picture Nugent posted to his social media page from one of his most recent hunts earlier this month.

COUNTRY MUSIC STAR SAM BARBER BAGS A MONSTER CARIBOU ON HIS RECENT ALASKA HUNTING TRIP

The Motor City Madman is gearing up for deer hunting season the only way he knows how, by taking down a massive buck that is almost too big to believe.

Full disclosure, I trust the man who gifted us "Stranglehold," so when he said this buck was "100% real," I was inclined to believe him, but I ran this picture through some AI detectors just in case and he ain't lying.

What a beauty!

Nugent is pushing 80 years old, but you wouldn't be able to tell based on this picture, as the man looks as full of life as ever and has an absolute trophy of a deer to show for it.

I guess that's what no drinking, no drugs and living off the land will do for you.

The Nuge had a lot of commenters in a tizzy, too, with his choice of footwear.

Not only did he bag a mammoth of a prize during his hunt, he did so in a pair of camouflage Crocs with no socks on.

He certainly lives up to his Motor City Madman moniker, that's for sure.

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The rock legend was recently in the news for opposing an Oregon ballot measure that would greatly restrict fishing and hunting in the Beaver State.

Nugent made an appearance on the popular Fox News program, "The Ingraham Angle" with Laura Ingraham, to state his case.

Clearly, hunting is something that is near and dear to Nugent's heart, so it's nice to see him going out and using his platform to bring some of these issues to a more mainstream audience.

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Keep up the good work, Uncle Ted, and happy hunting!

Brandi Glanville emptied her 401(k) after spending ‘hundreds of thousands’ on medical bills

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 18:03:07 -0400

Brandi Glanville needed a comeback — personally and financially.

After years of costly health struggles turned her life upside down, the former "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star told Fox News Digital she needed to get back to work.

"I had the leisure of saying no in the past, but then I had all these medical bills and whatnot," she admitted. "So I had to say yes. And it was kind of like at a time where I needed to prove to myself that I could do it again."

BRANDI GLANVILLE ENDS UP IN URGENT CARE AFTER TRYING VIRAL TIKTOK TREND

But for Glanville, the financial fallout from her health battle has been just as daunting as the physical toll.

"The medical system here is broken," Glanville explained. "So I have, like, from 8 a.m. on, I have creditors from, like, medical things calling me, like from Cedars-Sinai. It's out of control. Like I spent hundreds of thousands of dollars that I had saved. I emptied my 401(k). And it's all for medical bills. And I had insurance, and they told me nothing was wrong. I'm so angry. You know, going into my mid-fifties I had a cushion and that's gone. So it's very scary right now."

After years of suffering, Glanville revealed in September that she had been diagnosed with highly resistant ESBL Klebsiella and Enterobacter with biofilm, coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley fever, Demodex dermatitis and mononucleosis.

Glanville has said her daily IV treatment was expected to cost between $3,300 and $6,000 per month.

WATCH: BRANDI GLANVILLE SAYS HEALTH BATTLE FORCED HER TO SPEND ‘HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS'

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Glanville previously shared that she believed she picked up a parasite after visiting Morocco in 2023. She suffered from facial paralysis and was initially diagnosed with stress-induced angioedema. She told Fox News Digital at the time that she spent more than $70,000 in an attempt to find an answer to the medical mystery that consumed her daily life and disfigured her face.

After everything her body had already endured, Glanville was determined to test her limits on "Special Forces: World's Toughest Test." One challenge pushed those limits further than she expected.

While filming the show, Glanville said contestants were trained on how to fall from a helicopter into the water. But moments before her jump, an instructor told her to keep her head up — a last-second direction she said left her little time to react.

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"My head hit the water. It was like a Mack truck – it, like, ran over my head. I thought that was it," she recalled. "And then a few seconds later, my body hits the water so hard. It was paralyzing almost. I was like, 'Oh my God.' But it was in slow motion."

The former "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" star said she suffered a perforated eardrum, a concussion, a bruised sternum and a cracked rib — injuries that forced her to travel by boat to the hospital because doctors didn't want her flying. Glanville recalled battling an intense headache on top of the excruciating pain from her rib injury, which made it difficult to breathe or cough.

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Once at the hospital, Glanville said doctors warned her she couldn't fly and told her she could be stuck there for at least two weeks and potentially need surgery. But after spending several days recovering and returning to the hospital for another evaluation, the reality star said she was determined to leave — even if doctors still weren't thrilled about her getting on a plane.

Battered but undeterred, Glanville said she still considered the experience a personal victory.

"Honestly, I'm so proud of myself. I feel like a badass, even though I didn't last long," she told Fox News Digital. "I went in, I conquered, I got hurt, and then I left and that was enough for me. "

"Special Forces: Worlds Toughest Test" airs Thursdays at 9:00 p.m. ET on FOX.

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Fox News Digital's Tracy Wright contributed to this report.

Review of Charlie Kirk's assassination at Utah Valley University made public

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 16:04:14 -0400

Utah Valley University has released a 158-page report into the circumstances surrounding the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk on campus last year, when he was shot and killed during a public speaking event in the school's central courtyard.

The report, conducted independently by the Lake Forest Group but commissioned and released by the school, identified 10 "key findings" aimed at improving security for future events and concluded that no one at UVU acted "in bad faith or in willful and wanton disregard for the safety of others."

Among those key takeaways, the reviewers found that UVU's application of its own policies "was significantly inconsistent;" security was insufficient for a high-profile, outdoor event and there was no one in the university police department assigned to monitor campus security cameras.

CHARLIE KIRK'S FAMILY ALLEGES UVU KNEW OF ROOFTOP SECURITY RISK BEFORE HIS ASSASSINATION: LEGAL FILING

The reviewers also recommended reevaluating staffing levels and training given the university's size and potential for risk.

KIRK FAMILY MAY HAVE PATH AROUND ARCHAIC LAW SHIELDING GOV'T IN POLICE CHIEF'S ALLEGED 'GOT YOU COVERED' TEXT

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One concern raised in the report is that while universities have established systems to identify and thwart internal threats since the 2007 Virginia Tech shooting, those measures weren't applicable in the Kirk case because accused assassin Tyler Robinson had no connection to the school.

The report also concluded a timeline of major events in the lead-up to Kirk's visit to UVU between July 10 and Sept. 9, 2025. Several "key decision points" were identified between Aug. 25 and the day of Kirk's murder on Sept. 10.

SURVEILLANCE VIDEO TIMELINE TRACKS ACCUSED CHARLIE KIRK ASSASSIN ACROSS UVU CAMPUS BEFORE FATAL ROOFTOP SHOT

On Aug. 25, the outdoor courtyard location remained the event venue despite concerns from UVU officials about their ability to control it, according to the review. Two days later, the event was approved without a documented security assessment plan in place. Campus police and TPUSA security had their "first direct security coordination" on Sept. 3, a week before the event.

On Sept. 8, TPUSA organizers raised their concerns about rooftop access in the area above where Kirk would be speaking. The report states that UVU Police Chief Jeffrey Long sent TPUSA security supervisor Dan Flood a text stating, "We got you covered," but the review claims that the text was "in reference to the Hall of Flags outdoor pedestrian walkway."

Flood arrived in person on campus on Sept. 10 with the TPUSA security team.

"Dan Flood, TPUSA Security Supervisor, texted Chief Long advising that TPUSA security personnel had arrived on campus," the report states. "Chief Long engaged in a series of text communications with Flood, to include several regarding individuals located on the Hall of Flags outdoor pedestrian walkway and the Fountain Courtyard area where a canopy would be set up where Kirk would be speaking. These text exchanges revealed the primary security focus for TPUSA was the Hall of Flags outdoor pedestrian walkway above the canopy."

This account differs from language in the Kirk family's notice of claim against UVU, filed last week, which identified the Sorensen Center rooftop as an area of concern, not the Hall of Flags walkway.

The Hall of Flags walkway was closed for the event, but TPUSA security never met with university police in person, according to the review.

CHARLIE KIRK ASSASSINATION: NEW UVU PRESIDENT SAYS IT WILL CONTINUE TO 'HOST THE FRAYS,' EMBRACE FREE SPEECH

Ultimately, prosecutors allege that Robinson climbed atop the Losee Center building, which is to the northeast of the courtyard, and fired the fatal shot from there.

The Hall of Flags walkway is directly above where Kirk was speaking. The Sorenson Center is the building to the north. The Losee Center is to the northeast.

ALLEGED CHARLIE KIRK ASSASSIN TYLER ROBINSON'S FINGERPRINTS, PALM PRINT FOUND NEAR ROOFTOP: REPORT

"This report reaffirms the facts we laid out in our Notice of Claim: that UVU security was woefully understaffed and unprepared to manage the obvious risks associated with an event of this nature," Kirk family attorney Brett Parkinson said in a statement to Fox News Digital Friday.

"UVU hosted this event, and in doing so, assumed responsibility for the safety of all in attendance, including Charlie."

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As the family alleged last week, University Police Chief Jeffrey Long allegedly told Turning Point USA organizers that "I got you covered" when they raised concerns about rooftop access above the courtyard where Kirk was ultimately shot and killed by a sniper.

HOW CHARLIE KIRK’S ASSASSINATION CHANGED THE WAY CONSERVATIVES APPROACH HOSTILE OPPONENTS

"The buck stopped with UVU leadership and law enforcement," Parkinson said. "Justice for Charlie and his family requires true accountability for UVU’s fatal shortcomings that day."

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A university spokesperson told Fox News the school has no further comment beyond a statement released on behalf of UVU President Jon Anderson.

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"September 10 will always be part of UVU’s history, but it will not define our future," he said. "Our responsibility is to care for our community, learn from the findings of this review and follow through on its recommendations. This requires humility, an honest examination of our policies and practices and a commitment to act on what we learn."

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Fox News' Matt Finn and Nikki DiRico contributed to this report.

UK Prime Minister says football fans 'singled out' by alcohol ban not imposed on rugby matches

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 17:30:38 -0400

United Kingdom Prime Minister Andy Burnham is pushing back against England’s restrictions on alcohol at men’s soccer matches, calling the ban "discrimination" and suggesting the rules could be tested on a trial basis.

Burnham told reporters, "I don’t think it’s fair for football fans to be singled out," as he argued that they should not face restrictions that do not apply to spectators at other sporting events.

Under current laws, fans are prohibited from drinking alcohol in view of the pitch at stadiums hosting clubs in England’s top five tiers of men’s football. Those restrictions do not apply to other sports.

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The Football Supporters’ Association, which advocates for football fans in England and Wales, has called for the "outdated" legislation to be reviewed. Police chiefs, however, have warned against relaxing the law and want to meet with Burnham to "explain the challenges."

The legislation dates to 1985, when it was introduced by Margaret Thatcher’s government for football grounds in England and Wales. Then-Home Secretary Leon Brittan said alcohol was a "major contributory factor in violent and disorderly behavior" at stadiums.

Burnham’s connection to the sport is personal. He is a proud football fan and a season-ticket holder at Everton, the Premier League club.

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Prior to becoming the head of government of the U.K., Burnham spoke out against restrictions on football fans while attending a rugby league match at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium. Unlike during men’s football games, spectators were allowed to consume alcohol in the stands.

While in New York City for the United Nations General Assembly, Burnham was asked whether his position had changed now that he was in Downing Street. "I think that legislation dates to an era where football was very different," the prime minister replied.

"And I do believe there is a case to remove that discrimination. There are different ways it could be done. It could happen on a trial basis. But I'm not going to back away from what's been a long held view of mine. I don't see how it can be fair that some supporters of one sport can be treated differently."

Government sources told the BBC that Burnham was restating a long-held personal view rather than announcing a new government policy. Within government, however, the comments are not being interpreted as a sign that Burnham intends to change the law, according to the outlet.

A spokesman for the U.K. Football Policing Unit warned that changing the law could create new challenges for police and raise concerns about the "safety of staff and fans at football games."

The spokesman said: "Other sports simply don't see the violence and criminal behavior from their supporters that football does, albeit a minority, with alcohol often playing a significant part in violent and disorderly behavior."

FSA chairman Tom Greatrex pushed back against that argument, saying it was "unfair to criminalize football fans for having a pint while watching the match, especially since you can sit in the same seat drinking alcohol (while) watching an Oasis gig or rugby league."

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England has already taken a different approach in the Women’s Super League, where all clubs can serve alcohol in the stands this season after two successful trial campaigns.

Florida GOP nominee blasts 20-year Dem incumbent as a 'socialist' rubber-stamp with 'precious little to show'

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 17:26:56 -0400

Calling out federal waste and foreign aid subsidies while pointing to his own record of bucking party leadership in Tallahassee, GOP 14th congressional district nominee Mike Beltran promises to bring a sharp litigator’s cross-examination to Washington’s budget crisis.

In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital detailing his bid to unseat 20-year Democratic incumbent Kathy Castor, the former Florida state representative laid out a case rooted in strict fiscal accountability, pledged to challenge even Republican leadership on bloated federal budgets, and warned of the Democrats' embrace of socialism.

HOUSE CONSERVATIVES UNLEASH MULTIMILLION-DOLLAR MIDTERM BLITZ AGAINST DEM 'SOCIALIST' INSURGENCY

Beltran argues that despite her lengthy tenure on Capitol Hill, the people of Tampa Bay have not been served well by Kathy Castor.

"People in Tampa Bay have precious little to show for Kathy Castor's two decades of incumbency. She's had no major legislative initiatives. All she's really done is rename post offices. And all that's likely to happen if we reelect her is for her to rename every post office from Tampa to Timbuktu.

"She votes with her party over 90% of the time, including radical socialists. She voted in lockstep with Nancy Pelosi and she's poised to elect the Speaker Hakeem Jeffries. And Speaker Hakeem Jeffries would appoint a Chair Raskin, a Chair Omar, a Chair Cortez, and those folks would push radical policies in Congress that are completely out of line with what Tampa families need."

Beltran argues that in the Florida Legislature he served as an independent conservative voice, not automatically beholden to party leadership, and pledges to continue that approach in Washington.

"I've had the courage to vote against special interests even when my own party had lost its way. I've voted against insurance companies, home builders, trial lawyers, I voted against various special interests…whenever somebody was doing something that wasn't good for Tampa families.

"And I had that bipartisan record throughout my time, starting in 2019 and continuing through to 2024, unlike my opponent who discovered bipartisanship merely weeks ago. So I'm always going to do what's best for the communities that I represent, regardless of party, regardless of special interests, regardless of pressure. And that's what I'm proud of, having that independent voting record."

Beltran argues that the United States needs to reexamine its military and geopolitical relationships, with an eye to fiscal prudence:

"It cannot be a one-sided exchange. You cannot have a wealthy country like Germany spend under 2% of GDP on their military when we're spending over 5% of our GDP on our military budgets, about a trillion dollars. And a lot of that is spent overseas protecting other wealthy countries.

"You see Ukraine and Israel, they're defending themselves from their adversaries. They're doing a good job of that. But we are borrowing $2 trillion a year from countries like China. And that's causing inflation. And what that says is that we don't have money to be sending, particularly to wealthy allies like Germany and Spain.

"These are countries where we have bases, where we've had trouble getting basing privileges or overflight rights for the conflicts that we do need to engage in. And we shouldn't be subsidizing them anymore.

"You see Israel spends over 10% of GDP on defense, as does South Korea. Those countries are carrying the weight of their own defense, but we don't see that from all of our NATO allies. And they're a lot closer to these rogue states, to these conflict regions than we are. They should be doing more, and they're doing less, and that's unacceptable."

As an attorney, Beltran makes the case that he will bring a strong skill-set to Capitol Hill, to do away with business as usual and to fight for the citizens of Hillsborough County:

"My legal skills are quite good. I'm a good cross examiner. I'll be good at scrutinizing witnesses who come before committees that I serve on. I've litigated in the federal courts, so I know the federal statutes. I know issues that need to be redressed. I know how to write statutes so that they can be easily applied by judges, so that attorneys can counsel their clients on what the law is and what they need to do to comply with that.

"I'm proud to be a practicing attorney. I've helped a lot of businesses and individuals throughout Tampa Bay for almost 20 years.

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"And my opponent is also an attorney, but she hasn't practiced in a very long time. She was, I think, a land use attorney, she says, before she was a county commissioner. But I don't think she brings that same skill-set. I've never seen her cross-examine a witness to any effect. And I haven't seen her apply her legal skills to any legislative initiative. In fact, it's kind of difficult to identify anything that she's enacted that's of any particular value to Tampa or otherwise."

Kathy Castor has repeatedly voted against the interests of ordinary Americans in Florida's 14th district, Beltran argues:

"Well, she opposed tax cuts for the middle class and working class and retirees. She opposed removing taxes on tips, removing taxes on Social Security, removing taxes on overtime.

"And she wanted to pay, through taxpayer funds, for trans surgeries for children. And that was a very recent vote. That wasn't something that we have to reach into ancient history to find. And I opposed that.

"I see no reason why a single mother here in Hillsborough County should be paying taxes to pay for trans surgeries for minors while she actually is being taxed on her overtime or her tips."

Beltran pledges to confront the leadership of his own party if he disagrees with their policies, but also notes he will work with Democrats:

"Obviously, we've had Republicans who have also spent too much money. And so I'm going to go to Washington. I'm going to work with my party, and I'll work across the aisle, and I'll work with any administration that's in power to identify waste, fraud, and abuse, identify unnecessary government programs, identify savings, and identify cost controls, and make sure that we are the fiscal conservatives that we say we are.

"That's what's necessary to save this country because we need to balance the budget and we need pay down the debt and we need to live within our means, because if we don't balance our budget, then the budget will be balanced for us and it will be done when somebody cuts off our credit and people stop lending to us."

Finally, as democratic socialist candidates have won Democratic primaries across the nation and in Florida, Beltran notes that Castor has consistently refused to condemn socialist ideology, or candidates with such views in her own party.

"We see Kathy Castor, who's embraced Angie Nixon, who is one of those avowed socialist candidates. She said that her party was a big tent party, and that needs to be a very big tent to accommodate Angie Nixon…I'm not sure I'd like to be in a tent of any size with her, but my opponent welcomes her with open arms.

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"And she's going to vote in lockstep with these socialists, first to elect Hakeem Jeffries and then to appoint these socialists to committee chairmanships. She's done very little to distance herself from the radicals within her party. Even as she masquerades recently as a moderate, she will empower the socialists.

"And that's really what's at stake in November. It's not just me, it's not just Kathy Castor, it is the direction of the country and whether we're going to embrace these radical policies, or whether we are going to have economic growth and prosperity and safety here in the United States."

Carville says the GOP is better than Democrats at one key skill the 2028 Dem nominee will need

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 17:02:08 -0400

Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville said Republicans are better at pushing positive and negative narratives than Democrats on Thursday and warned his party that its 2028 nominee will need that skill to win.

Carville has frequently condemned the Trump administration, predicting that 2026 will be a year of landmark victories for the Democratic Party. He has suggested multiple times that President Donald Trump, after presumably losing political power in the midterms, may resign from office early and be pardoned by Vice President JD Vance after Vance becomes president.

One listener, however, contacted Carville and his co-host Al Hunt on their "Politics War Room" podcast, juxtaposing how Republicans and Democrats talk about each other.

"He wants to know why the Republicans are so much better than the Democrats at creating boogeymen," Hunt summarized. "Republicans will paint all Democrats with a socialist brush, yet Democrats can’t seem to do the same thing when it comes to racism, antisemitism or corruption, despite the fact that all three are prevalent among Republican members of Congress."

100 DAYS UNTIL MIDTERMS AND DEMOCRATS ARE WINNING BECAUSE THEY ACTUALLY HAVE A MESSAGE

"The gist of the question is Republicans are very good at painting Democrats as boogeymen, socialists, communists, all that kind of stuff," Hunt continued. "But the Democrats don’t do as good a job, Rob worries, about painting Republicans with their racism, antisemitism, etc."

Carville argued that the Republicans are doing so badly they may not even need the Democrats to condemn them.

"First of all, it is a good question," Carville replied. "Secondly, what’s happened now is they’re painting themselves that way, OK? They’re going down not because of Democratic messaging, not because of a relentless offense by the Democrats that, you know, points out their foibles. They’re going down because the public sees it, and they don’t need that. A Democratic intervention right now is not called for."

Carville said that the Democratic nominee will need to master this skill to win in 2028.

"The gist of the question from our listener is totally correct. And for whatever reasons, Ben [sic], I think it’s because we’re more of a coalition. Not only do we not have a consistent negative story to tell about the other party, we don’t have a consistent positive story to tell about ourselves," he said. "Hope and pray that in 2028 we have a really skilled candidate that’s able to do that."

"But that is a fact of American politics," he added. "We’re not as good as they are at the negative, and we’re not as good as they are at a positive."

SOCIALISTS ARE HELPING GOP CAMPAIGNS HEADING INTO NOVEMBER

Mary Marslender, a former senior advisor to Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., and a former Trump appointee who is now a Republican consultant, said there is a disparity in how well each side uses that rhetoric against the other.

"It isn’t even close, and it isn’t the disparity Carville thinks it is," she told Fox News Digital. "When Republicans label Democrats as socialists, it’s not just empty rhetoric; it’s grounded in how many Democrats describe themselves. Recent polling found that 59 percent of Democrats identify as supporters of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA)."

"The DSA has openly advocated for policies such as court-packing, sweeping changes to financial institutions, the abolition of capitalism, open borders, eliminating prisons and the Senate, and expanding administrative power. The Democratic Party has embraced socialism, and there seems to be no turning back," Marslender continued.

However, she disagreed with Carville's comment that Republicans have already destroyed their own reputation without Democratic help.

"Carville’s claim is more political spin than reality," Marslender said. "If Republicans had truly destroyed their own credibility, Democrats would not need Carville’s advice to ‘sit this one out.’ In fact, Carville reveals the Democratic Party’s real problem: they lack both a compelling message and a strong messenger, and are now hoping for a ‘really skilled candidate in 2028.’"

"A party that has watched the Trump administration deliver on border security, energy independence, and prioritizing American workers cannot credibly claim that Republicans have already undermined themselves," she continued. "If Republicans were as self-destructive as Carville claims, Democrats wouldn’t be waiting for a future savior; they would already be capitalizing on Republicans’ so-called failures. Carville’s argument underscores that Democrats still recognize weaknesses in their own positioning and strategy."

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Julian Epstein, an attorney, Democratic consultant and former Democratic chief counsel for the House Judiciary Committee, said some of Carville's comments were "delusion."

"Some of this is progressive delusion," he said. "For the last decade, Democrats, in non-stop fashion, have sought to commodify rage by calling Trump a fascist, deriding Trump’s attempt to stop a Nazi movement in the Mideast, and blaming him for a cost-of-living crisis that Democrats mostly authored under Biden’s 20% cumulative inflation. Most of what Democrats do today is name-calling."

"Democrats failure to tell a ‘positive story’ is not a communications problem, it’s a philosophy problem," Epstein added. "It dismays many of us centrists, but the left’s program today is almost entirely identity grievance and tax-and-spend redistributionist big government, which appeals to, at most, 25% of voters — about the same low number of voters that actually identify as Democrats today."

"Democrats have forgotten how to build," he continued. "They have forgotten that the story of America is one of innovation, invention and discovery, not resentment and big government bureaucracies."

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"At the same time, it is also true that the GOP is squandering its 2024 mandate," Epstein added. "Its tripping over itself with badly designed tariffs, has failed to show in a forward-looking manner that building new housing and increasing competition in health insurance can cure a lot of the affordability problem, and has failed to explain that we are fighting a KKK-like ideology in the Mideast. Unlike the Democrats’ philosophy problem, the GOP has a yawning communications’ problem."

Indiana attorney general sues high school sports association over race-based board quota

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 16:55:02 -0400

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita has sued the state’s governing body for high school athletics over a policy that reserves two seats on its board of directors for racial minorities.

The lawsuit, filed Wednesday in Marion County Superior Court, seeks to force the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) to eliminate a provision reserving two of its 19 board seats for "qualified minorities." The association’s bylaws define a minority director as "an individual other than a white male or female."

"Hoosier students should not be governed by a sports association that picks its leaders based on race," Rokita said in a statement announcing the lawsuit. "IHSAA’s quota tells kids that skin color, rather than merit, is an appropriate way to judge people."

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"That lesson has no place in Indiana’s education system, and, regardless, the law does not permit it," he continued. "The IHSAA exists to build character. A racial litmus test for choosing leadership on the IHSAA’s board does the opposite, and after months of delay, the Association left us no choice but to take legal action."

The state’s complaint alleges the quota constitutes an "overt racial classification" that treats potential board members differently based solely on their race. It accuses the IHSAA of violating Indiana’s nonprofit laws by abusing its authority, misapplying corporate assets and acting inconsistently with its stated public purpose.

The lawsuit asks the court to issue a permanent injunction requiring the IHSAA to immediately remove the racial qualification from its bylaws and prohibit the association from adopting future policies that allocate board seats based on race. It also seeks a declaration that the existing provisions violate Indiana law.

The IHSAA defended its policies in a statement Thursday and said it was disappointed Rokita proceeded with litigation.

"The IHSAA disagrees with any suggestion that our bylaws violate federal and state civil rights laws or in any way constitute an abuse of its nonprofit status," the organization said. "To the contrary, the IHSAA is committed to serving all student-athletes and member schools throughout Indiana. Consistent with that mission, we value broad representation and diverse perspectives among those who help guide and support interscholastic athletics across the state."

The organization added that the lawsuit was filed despite its willingness to consider Rokita’s concerns through its "established governance and bylaw review processes."

"For more than a century, the IHSAA has governed high school athletics on behalf of its member schools," the statement said. "It is unfortunate that distractions like today’s lawsuit take away from what really matters: the student-athletes."

The lawsuit marks the latest escalation in a dispute first brought into public view last year.

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Fox News Digital reported in May 2025 that the Pacific Legal Foundation and Equal Protection Project had sent a letter demanding that the IHSAA remove race- and sex-based requirements from its board-selection process.

At the time, the bylaws provided for a 19-member board that included two "qualified female representatives" and two "qualified minorities." The groups warned that legal action could follow if the provisions were not removed.

"We hope that IHSAA will do the right thing and voluntarily remedy the discriminatory bylaws provisions, but if it does not, all legal options are on the table," Equal Protection Project founder William A. Jacobson told Fox News Digital at the time.

Pacific Legal Foundation attorney Laura D’Agostino similarly argued that candidates should be evaluated on their qualifications rather than their demographic characteristics.

"Public boards should reflect the talents and commitment of all citizens, not arbitrary categories of race or sex," D’Agostino told Fox News Digital. "Every individual who wants to step up and serve their community should be encouraged to do so based on what they bring to the table, not held back because of who they are."

According to the new complaint, Rokita’s office separately directed the IHSAA in April 2026 to remove its racial quota. The association responded in June that it disagreed with the attorney general’s legal position but would consider the issue during its next round of bylaw amendments in May 2027.

After further correspondence and an Aug. 25 meeting of the IHSAA Executive Committee produced no immediate change, Rokita’s office proceeded with the lawsuit.

The complaint says the IHSAA has used some form of a racial requirement for board membership since 1993. The current definition has remained in place since the association’s 2001-02 bylaws, according to the filing.

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The lawsuit targets the two seats reserved for racial minorities. It does not ask the court to eliminate the two board seats designated for female representatives.

Ella Langley goes viral after shutting down fan who asked her on a date

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 16:46:27 -0400

Ella Langley is clapping back at fans who thought she poorly handled an awkward situation with a fan.

The "Choosin' Texas" singer has gone viral after a man asked her out after her Sept. 24 show in Knoxville, Tennessee, then posted the video of her response on social media.

In the video, TikTok user Tiki is heard taking his chance to ask the singer out on a date, shouting through a fence in the parking lot, "Ella, how many likes to take you on a date?"

She didn't seem too taken with the idea of a romance with the fan. She looked at him with a serious look on her face and said, "Not enough in the world," as she frowned and looked away.

ELLA LANGLEY SEEMINGLY FIRES BACK AFTER DOJA CAT'S BRUTAL TAKE ON HER CHART-TOPPING HIT

He then stood with his arms crossed over his chest, looked at the camera and said, "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take."

Some fans in the comments section were not pleased with Langley's reaction to the fan. "This rubbed me the wrong way. And I like her," one fan wrote. Another asked, "Literally what is her problem?"

Another added, "She could have laughed and said no in a whole different way."

In response to the criticism, Langley spoke up in the comments section herself, writing, "It was meant to come off as dark humor. You said that and it got quiet and I got nervous."

While many took issue with the way she responded, others came to her defense, pointing out that just because she is famous, she's not required to be nice all the time. One fan wrote, "Being screamed at 24/7 would get irritating."

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"There’s no way yall are mad at her for reacting negatively to a kid screaming at her asking to take her on a date in front of her team??? Yall gotta go outside," one fan wrote in her defense.

Another added, "This made me like her even more. Its not her job to be nice to random men. She set her boundary, respect it." A fourth fan wrote, "She doesn’t have to go on a date with a random guy just because he asked.. are y’all okay 💀???"

The singer may have had another reason to say no to the fan after she was recently seen leaving an event in Nashville with fellow country star Tucker Wetmore, sparking romance rumors.

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Langley's show at the Food City Center in Knoxville came as she made history with her smash hit "Choosin' Texas." It officially became the longest-running No. 1 in all of Billboard’s Hot 100 history after spending 23 weeks in the top spot.

She celebrated the news with a video on Instagram, thanking her fans "for loving this song."

"I’m genuinely trying to find the words to help explain what’s going on in my brain today," she said. "It feels exactly like a ‘We don’t know! What?’ I don’t know. Thank you so much."

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