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Trump-backed firebrand wins Arizona GOP governor primary, setting up high-stakes showdown

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 23:10:57 -0400

President Donald Trump's kingmaker status in Republican primaries was on the line Tuesday in Arizona's GOP gubernatorial nomination showdown – and the president easily passed the test.

Rep. Andy Biggs, a former House Freedom Caucus chair who landed the president's endorsement, captured the GOP nomination for Arizona governor with more than 70% of the vote, the Associated Press reported with just under 50% of the votes counted Tuesday night. He was beating his nearest competitor by more than 50% at that point.

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Biggs topped Republican Rep. David Schweikert, who had 17% of the vote with just under 50% of the total counted, as well as concrete pumping contractor Scott Neely, 7%, who was making his second straight run for governor, and business owner Ken Miceli, 5.4%, to win the nomination.

Biggs will now face off in the general election with Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs, a former Arizona Secretary of State who narrowly defeated then-GOP nominee Kari Lake four years ago. Hobbs was unopposed as she ran for re-nomination in the southwestern battleground.

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The Republican primary turned combative and expensive.

Schweikert earlier this year went up with campaign mailers accusing Biggs of associating with white supremacist and antisemitic groups. Responding, the Biggs campaign labeled the move as "a desperate tactic by our opponent."

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Biggs, who was also backed by the political wing of the conservative powerhouse Turning Point USA, mostly ignored his rivals and only joined them on the stage at one of the multiple debates.

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Trump's endorsements in a handful of key races, including in a top swing congressional district, could impact the midterm battles for the House majority and control of governors' offices.

40% off or more: Save on beach essentials on Amazon, from coolers to cover-ups

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:01:59 -0400

Planning a beach day this summer? Save 40% or more on Amazon essentials to help you stay cool, comfortable and prepared by the water. Standout deals include a portable speaker for 49% off, an insulated cooler for just $9 and more must-have gear worth packing before your next trip to the shore.

Trending beach gear deals

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Bring your favorite playlists to the beach with this portable Bluetooth speaker. Its waterproof design stands up to splashes, and the battery lasts up to 14 hours for all-day listening.

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Make swimming more comfortable with these Speedo goggles. The adjustable bungee strap won't pull hair, while the lenses provide UVA and UVB protection while they're out of the water.

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Vulnerable Republican wins GOP primary in Arizona toss-up district Dems aim to flip blue

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 22:46:43 -0400

Rep. Juan Ciscomani, R-Ariz., clinched the GOP primary nomination in a battleground district Democrats see as key to retaking the House.

Ciscomani, a moderate Republican seeking a third House term, ran unopposed with President Donald Trump’s endorsement.

The southeastern Arizona district, which spans Tucson's suburbs and stretches to the U.S.-Mexico border, is one of the most hotly contested House races in the country. Trump carried the swing seat by less than 1 percentage point in 2024 after losing it by roughly the same margin in 2020.

JoAnna Mendoza, a Marine veteran and political consultant, also ran unopposed in the Democratic primary. She has faced several scandals that could undermine her House bid heading into November.

BATTLEGROUND DEMOCRAT SAID TRADITIONALLY WHITE OUTDOOR SPACES 'WILL NO LONGER BE WHITE'

The Democrat hopeful has come under recent scrutiny for following several OnlyFans models and self-described witches on her official campaign Instagram account.

The sexually explicit accounts included one belonging to a transgender socialist activist who posted pictures in BDSM gear, the New York Post first reported.

Mendoza, who is openly bisexual, has also faced GOP attacks after remarks resurfaced from 2020 in which she said she would decriminalize prostitution in response to a question from Equality Arizona, an LGBTQ advocacy group, about the struggles of "trans women of color."

"It’s important to ensure that there’s access to the resources, the support networks, the social services, access to healthcare," Mendoza said in the interview, adding, "We need to stop criminalizing people for their situations."

'FLIP FLOP': DEMOCRAT FIREFIGHTER IN TIGHT HOUSE RACE BLASTS POPULAR TRUMP POLICY HIS NATIONAL UNION SUPPORTS

"Far-left lobbyist Mendoza is a risk working Arizonans literally cannot afford," NRCC spokesman Ben Petersen said in a statement.

Democrats view Mendoza as a strong recruit and have added the political newcomer to their flagship "Red to Blue" candidate program.

The nonpartisan Cook Political Report rates Ciscomani’s re-election bid as a "toss-up."

Ciscomani, who previously served as a senior advisor to former Gov. Doug Ducey, R-Ariz., and the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, is likely to highlight his bipartisan credentials as he seeks a third House term.

He is a member of the centrist Problem Solvers Caucus and the Main Street Caucus, which identifies as "pragmatic" conservatives.

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Ciscomani defeated former state Sen. Kirsten Engel, D-Ariz., by more than 3 percentage points in a 2024 rematch. He first won the seat in 2022, defeating Engel by fewer than 6,000 votes and becoming the first naturalized citizen from Mexico elected to Congress.

EXCLUSIVE: Franklin Graham visits emergency hospital treating Venezuela earthquake victims

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 22:38:44 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: Rev. Franklin Graham visited a Samaritan's Purse emergency field hospital in Venezuela, where doctors and nurses are performing life-saving surgeries and praying with earthquake survivors who have endured unimaginable loss.

Graham, president and CEO of Samaritan's Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, traveled with his daughter, Cissie Graham Lynch, to encourage relief teams and comfort people who lost loved ones, homes and nearly everything they owned.

Lynch, senior advisor and spokesperson for Samaritan's Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, said one encounter with a local pastor stayed with her throughout the visit.

ARGENTINE SOCCER PLAYER LUCAS TREJO LOSES WIFE, TWO CHILDREN IN VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKE BUILDING COLLAPSE: REPORT

"Today, I saw both the immense suffering and the incredible strength of the Venezuelan people," Lynch told Fox News Digital. "I was deeply impacted by the story of a pastor who lost several members of his congregation in the earthquakes and is still serving his community. He said it all when he told us, 'I am here to serve and win souls for Christ.' I thank God for that faithful pastor and for the opportunity that we have to encourage and support him as he shares the hope of Jesus Christ in Venezuela."

"These people are surrounded by so much death and destruction. We want to bring the light of Jesus Christ into these places of pain," Franklin Graham told Fox News Digital.

"I'm thankful for our incredible teams who are doing just that. They are providing medical care, clean water, tents for shelter, and many other emergency supplies," he continued. "As they do this in Jesus' Name, they are comforting these families and praying with them during this time of intense grief and loss."

AMERICANS TRAVEL TO PAKISTAN TO FREE CHRISTIANS TRAPPED IN MODERN-DAY SLAVERY: 'GOD'S HAND WAS IN IT'

At the emergency field hospital in La Guaira, medical teams have treated more than 2,500 patients. The hospital includes two operating rooms, a pharmacy and a laboratory, while doctors continue performing orthopedic surgeries and treating infections and other conditions left untreated in the aftermath of the disaster.

Two powerful earthquakes measuring magnitudes 7.2 and 7.5 struck Venezuela just 37 seconds apart on June 24, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The earthquakes killed more than 5,000 people and injured more than 16,000, according to figures announced by Venezuelan authorities. La Guaira was among the areas hardest hit.

More than 170 Samaritans Purse Disaster Assistance Response Team members are serving in some of the hardest-hit areas, including La Guaira, Playa Grande and Caraballeda, while aid is also being delivered through church partners in Caracas.

PASTOR FREED FROM CHINESE PRISON AFTER TRUMP RAISED HIS CASE WITH XI JINPING

Six Boeing 767 airlifts have carried 295 tons of relief supplies into the country. Samaritan's Purse said its aircraft were the first non-military flights to arrive in Venezuela following the earthquakes.

More than 10,200 families have received emergency supplies, including tents, tarps, solar lights, blankets, hygiene kits, cooking sets and Spanish Bibles.

The organization has also installed four emergency clinic modules for local healthcare facilities, with a fifth expected to open soon. The clinics are stocked with medical supplies and generators to help restore healthcare in communities devastated by the earthquakes.

Two desalination units have also produced more than 154,000 liters of clean water.

Samaritan's Purse said nearly every patient treated at its field hospital has lost a family member or close friend.

Among them was a father who injured his leg while rescuing another person's child from a collapsed 14-story building.

"It was terrifying," he said. "I thought a plane had crashed."

Another survivor was buried beneath the rubble after his apartment building collapsed, falling six floors and remaining trapped for two days without food, water or light before rescuers spent six hours pulling him to safety.

"I lose everything, I don't have anything," he said. "A nurse here made me paper shoes, I feel so happy for that."

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For the survivor, the compassion and prayer he received proved just as meaningful as the medical care.

"The doctors pray with me," he said. "That's beautiful when they get on their knees and pray with me. I love that. Nobody do that for me."

Back-to-school Apple deals: Up to 78% off MacBooks, iPads, AirPods and more

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:01:49 -0400

Back-to-school season is one of the best times to save on Apple devices — especially considering that they rarely go on sale. Shop standout deals on the 11-inch iPad Air, AirPods 4 and refurbished MacBook Pro laptops before these limited-time savings disappear.

Best-selling deals worth shopping this week

Our readers love these Apple picks — all discounted.

Apple iPad, 8th Gen, refurbished (72% off)

Browse the web, research and take notes on this budget-friendly refurbished iPad with a sharp 10.2-inch Retina display. The battery lasts up to 10 hours.

Apple Watch Series 8 (renewed) (51% off)

This renewed Apple Watch Series 8 offers many of the same health features for less than the Series 11. Track your temperature, get ECG readings and more.

Apple USB-C power adapter (34% off)

Charge your MacBook Air and iPhone at the same time with this USB-C power adapter, which supports fast charging. Its compact size makes it easy to toss in a carry-on or backpack for class.

Apple AirPods 4 (23% off)

Apple's AirPods 4 come with Voice Isolation and Conversation Awareness that keep phone calls clear, even in noisy environments. Use them for lectures, study sessions and more, with up to five hours of listening time on a single charge.

Apple EarPods wired headphones (22% off)

Apple's EarPods still hold up as a premium wired option, and with a built-in microphone, calls come through loud and clear. They fit comfortably in your ears without constantly shifting, making them a practical choice for school.

Apple USB-C to USB-C woven charging cable (21% off)

Charge your iPhone quickly with this Apple 60W USB-C charging cable. Designed for fast charging and data transfer, it's a handy spare to keep in your backpack.

Deals we love

These Apple deals stand out, from the AirPods Pro 3 to the Apple Watch Series 11.

2020 Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch, refurbished (78% off)

Get MacBook Pro performance for less with this refurbished model. The lightweight design and long battery life make it a dependable choice for taking notes, studying and carrying between classes.

iPhone 17 Pro: $1,000 off with an eligible trade-in

Head back to school with a new iPhone 17 Pro by trading in an eligible phone and opening a new Verizon line to save up to $1,000. With plans starting at $2.77 per month, it's one of the strongest carrier offers available right now.

Apple AirPods Pro 3: $199.99 (Orig. $249)

The AirPods Pro 3 build on many of the features found in the AirPods 4. You still get Active Noise Cancellation and Spatial Audio for an immersive experience, along with up to eight hours of battery life. Bring them along while walking across campus or studying in the library.

Apple Watch Series 11: $299 (Orig. $399)

Stay on top of classes, workouts and notifications with the Apple Watch Series 11, now 30% off. It features a faster chip and a display that's twice as scratch-resistant as the previous generation, along with health tools like sleep tracking and hypertension notifications to help you monitor your well-being.

Apple iPad Air 11-inch: $719 (Orig. $899)

Tackle classes, note-taking and studying with the lightweight 11-inch iPad Air. The Liquid Retina display delivers crisp, vibrant visuals, while Apple Intelligence helps streamline everyday tasks and boost productivity.

Best deals on Apple accessories

Round out your back-to-school setup with these accessories like the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard.

Apple Pencil (2nd Generation, renewed): $68 (Orig. $128.27)

Create works of art with the intuitive second-generation Apple Pencil. A double-tap gesture allows you to quickly switch between tools, helping streamline your workflow. Attach it magnetically to the side of a compatible iPad for convenient storage and charging.

Laptop case: $12.99 (Orig. $13.99)

Hundreds of Amazon shoppers recommend this laptop case that protects your device from bumps, scratches and spills. A matching storage pouch keeps chargers and other accessories organized.

Apple AirTag FineWoven key ring: $24.95 (Orig. $35)

Apple's FineWoven ring holds an AirTag and clips straight onto a keychain, helping you keep track of your items without a bulky case. The durable micro-twill also has a sleek, suede-like feel.

Apple Magic Keyboard: $219 (Orig. $249)

Turn your iPad into a laptop replacement with this magnetic Apple Magic Keyboard. The built-in trackpad simplifies scrolling, and the standard-size keyboard gives you plenty of room to work without increasing bulk. The two-piece design adds a protective backing to your iPad, helping prevent scratches and other damage.

Apple Magic Trackpad: $119.99 (Orig. $129.99)

Increase your productivity during the school year with the Magic Trackpad's spacious glass surface and responsive Multi-Touch controls. It pairs automatically with your Mac and lasts about a month on a single charge.

Apple Magic Mouse: $69 (Orig. $79)

Apple's wireless Magic Mouse glides smoothly across your desk and pairs instantly with your MacBook or desktop. Go up to a month without recharging and skip the batteries by plugging it into a USB-C cable.

Wireless charging station: $15.30 (Orig. $22.99)

Keep your desk organized with this wireless charging station that powers your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods at the same time. LED indicators display each device's charging status, while built-in safety features help protect against power surges.

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

Best Apple sales to shop across other retailers

Amazon: Save up to 58% on Apple Watches, MacBooks, AirPods, accessories and more

StackSocial: Get up to 78% off laptops, iPads and Apple Watches

Adorama: Save up to $500 on select MacBooks, AirPods and other Apple products

Verizon: Trade in an eligible device and save up to $1,000 on select iPhone models

AT&T: New and existing customers can get an iPhone 17 Pro from $0 per month with an eligible trade-in

Newegg: Take up to 50% off refurbished Apple products

FAQs

Here's what readers are asking about Apple deals right now.

What are the best Apple deals right now?

Students can save on Apple essentials this week, with discounts on everything from AirPods 4 for $99 to the Apple Pencil for just $68. You can also save $100 on the Apple Watch Series 11 or score a refurbished Series 8 for 51% off. Accessories are also marked down, including the Apple Magic Mouse for $70 and a popular laptop case for just $13.

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

Democrats re-nominate Arizona governor, setting stage for high-stakes November battle

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 22:26:38 -0400

Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs cruised to re-nomination in battleground Arizona.

That's because the incumbent governor was unopposed in Tuesday's Democratic primary.

Hobbs, a former Arizona Secretary of State who narrowly defeated then-GOP nominee Kari Lake four years ago, now heads to the general election in the key southwestern battleground state.

"I've never lost an election, but I've also never won one alone. This will be a close race, but I'm excited to be in this fight with all of you to keep Arizona moving forward," the governor told supporters in a social media post minutes after polls closed.

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Hobbs will face off against the winner of the Republican gubernatorial primary.

Rep. Andy Biggs, a former House Freedom Caucus chair, is backed by President Donald Trump and by the political wing of the conservative powerhouse Turning Point USA. Also on the GOP ballot are longtime Republican Rep. David Schweikert, concrete pumping contractor Scott Neely, who's making his second straight run for governor, and business owner Ken Miceli.

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Hobbs, who has assembled a formidable campaign war chest, spent roughly $7 million during the primary to run ads, even though she faced no competition.

"We are running the race we need to win, and it is going to take a lot to get there. We know it's going to be a close race," Hobbs told reporters on Monday. "I'm proud of the support I've garnered and, you know, I'm not raising campaign money to haul it away. I'm raising it to spend."

The governor's ads, aimed partially at independent and Republican voters, showcased what she said were Arizona's economic wins during her tenure, and her bipartisan efforts working across the aisle with the GOP-controlled legislature.

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Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, chair of the Democratic Governors Association (DGA), said in a statement that "Arizona is always an incredibly competitive battleground and the DGA is all-in to make sure Gov. Hobbs wins so she can continue putting Arizona first."

The Libertarian Party, the Green Party, and No Labels are also running candidates on the general election ballot in the race for Arizona governor.

Fox News' Olivia Palombo contributed to this story

Trump wants FIFA President Gianni Infantino to become the next UN secretary-general: report

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 22:18:32 -0400

The close friendship between President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino might become a working relationship.

Trump reportedly wants Infantino to be the next secretary-general of the United Nations, per the New York Post.

Trump has faith that Infantino is "respected by everyone around the world," and following the first-ever FIFA World Cup in three different countries, the 45th and 47th president of the U.S. believes the world "recognizes he has a special ability to bring people together," a source told The Post.

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The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment by Fox News Digital on this matter.

Infantino, the Swiss-born leader of soccer’s largest governing body, grew close to Trump while organizing the World Cup. Trump was included in many different aspects, including Infantino awarding him FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize back in December.

Trump was also seen handing out the Club World Cup trophy last year at MetLife Stadium, and he was present to give Spain’s Rodrì the World Cup trophy on Sunday afternoon at the same venue after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 to win the tournament.

FOX WORLD CUP ANNOUNCER SAYS TRUMP'S APPEARANCE AT FINAL IS 'FUN, UNIQUE THING' DESPITE POTENTIAL BACKLASH

During the match, Trump was seated between First Lady Melania Trump and Infantino, while the World Cup trophy was spotted in his suite for viewing prior to handing it out on the pitch.

The next secretary-general of the UN will be elected later this year, and that person will begin their post on Jan. 1, 2027. Portugal’s António Guterres will be stepping down come December.

Whether Infantino will be considered for the role remains to be seen. He must first be endorsed by all 15 members of the Security Council before receiving confirmation from the General Assembly. The Security Council's five permanent members each have veto power.

Infantino must also want the post himself, and it’s unclear whether that is the case here. FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment by Fox News Digital.

If Infantino wishes to run for secretary-general, The Post learned that Trump believes he would be running against seven "lame" candidates, including Chile's former socialist president, Michelle Bachelet.

Argentina’s Rafael Grossi also could be a contender for the role, though the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency may face resistance from the United Kingdom over the Falkland Islands — a heavily disputed situation between the two countries which found its way into the World Cup.

Paolo Zampolli, who serves as Trump’s special envoy for global partnerships, said to The Post Infantino "would do a great job," believing he is "liked by everybody."

Zampolli has reportedly dealt with FIFA in the past, as the Italian-American businessman and diplomat pitched to Infantino to replace Iran with Italy for the World Cup in an effort to repair the relationship between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Zampolli was also a former ambassador to the UN for Dominica.

"At the United Nations, you have to deal with 193 member states. In FIFA, there are over 200 members [and] Gianni’s great record shows he knows how to manage," he told The Post.

Infantino, however, did come under fire by some soccer organizations around the globe after the reversal of Folarin Balogun’s red card for Team USA in the World Cup ahead of their Round of 16 match against Belgium. Trump confirmed he called Infantino for a review of the controversial red card, which would’ve had Balogun, the team’s leading goal scorer at the time, miss the win-or-go-home match.

Infantino faces an election of his own next year, as March 2027 will be when the FIFA Congress decides whether he will run a fourth term.

Meanwhile, Trump has not shied away from his views about the UN since returning to office, cutting the U.S. contributions to the organization, while pulling out of the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO and the UN Human Rights Council.

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If Infantino doesn't want the post with the UN, and he is re-elected by the FIFA Congress to remain president, he will be organizing yet another tournament in 2027. The FIFA Women's World Cup, which will be held in Brazil, takes place before an even bigger FIFA World Cup in 2030.

To honor the 100th anniversary of the tournament, the matches will begin in Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay before the majority of them are played in Spain, Morocco and Portugal. Much like this year's World Cup, history will be made as no tournament has ever been played in six different countries and three different continents.

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House GOP votes to punt government shutdown battle to after November midterms

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 22:16:31 -0400

The House of Representatives voted on Tuesday night to punt the threat of another government shutdown until after the November midterm elections.

House lawmakers passed a bill to extend the current fiscal year's funding levels until Dec. 4 via a measure called a continuing resolution (CR). It would extend several weeks into fiscal year (FY) 2027, which begins on Oct. 1.

The legislation passed in a 220 to 205 vote. Just six House Democrats supported the measure compared to 204 who voted against. All but one House Republican supported the bill.

It's a victory for Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and House Republicans, who are looking to avoid a messy federal spending fight right before what's expected to be an uphill battle to retain their razor-thin majority.

SENATE WEIGHS NEW, PAINFUL LEVERAGE TACTIC AS FEARS OF ANOTHER GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN GROW

House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., the No. 3 House GOP leader, ripped the Democrats who opposed the measure.

"As the marxists and communists battle it out for control of the Democrat party, House Republicans are proving yet again that we are the party that governs and works for the American people. Under President Trump’s leadership, we are the party of commonsense. The other side — led by Commie Mamdani — is the party of chaos and destruction. A majority of Democrats just voted for another damning Schumer Shutdown," he said in reference to New York City's self-proclaimed Democratic Socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

The current fiscal year saw the longest government shutdown in history, lasting from Oct. 1, 2025 until Nov. 12, 2025, as Senate Democrats blockaded GOP-led funding priorities for weeks in protest of spending cuts to federal healthcare programs.

And Republicans are warning that Democrats would almost certainly cause another government shutdown right before the election if the fight is not punted until after the early November midterms.

"Unfortunately, given that Democrats have already forced the two longest government shutdowns in American history in this Congress, one of them for 78 days, they've already demonstrated they don't care what kind of pain they inflict on the American people," Johnson told reporters on Tuesday. "They've shown there's nothing they'd love more than a government shutdown as tens of millions of Americans head to the polls in November."

House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar, D-Calif., told reporters Tuesday that he would vote against the bill along with the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, the panel tasked with overseeing yearly federal spending.

"I think that there are some drafting errors within the CR that give Customs and Border Patrol flexibility to move money around. The administration said that all of that was funded within reconciliation 2.0. and I think they're creating other opportunities to transfer funds," Aguilar said.

But even with the House's victory, it's not clear that the fight will be over before September.

HOUSE GOP PUSHES BACK ON SENATE'S 'SKINNY' PLAN TO END RECORD-BREAKING DHS SHUTDOWN

The GOP-led Senate is working on its own course on funding extension, with sources familiar with the process telling Fox News Digital that appropriators were crafting their own CR. They believe the House’s product lacked key extensions to certain programs that are expected to run out of funding come the Sept. 30 deadline.

Those programs, known as anomalies, were shipped to the Senate from the White House on Monday.

Sen. John Hoeven, R-N.D., a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, told Fox News Digital that Republicans and Democrats, for the time being, were working together to thwart a shutdown.

He hoped to get the CR onto the floor as soon as this week, given that the House is set to leave Washington, D.C., by the end of the week for a long August recess.

"Look, we appreciate the House moving forward with theirs. It's, you know, very clean," Hoeven said. "There are just a few issues that we think need to be the rest. Because, obviously, we need to get Democrats on board with us, right now, they're working with us."

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The move has the full blessing of Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D.

"I think it's going to be really important that we figure out a path forward to get a bipartisan agreement to fund the government that will keep government open and ensure that government employees are getting paid," Thune said. "And that is something that I intend to bring to the floor for a vote before the August break.

Woman's remains identified by DNA in Virginia, exposing second alleged murder linked to same 4 suspects

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 22:12:20 -0400

The four suspects accused of killing a Virginia teenager are now facing charges in a second homicide after investigators identified a woman whose remains remained a mystery for more than three months, revealing what authorities say were two connected, premeditated killings.

Helen Marie Pullen Banks, 56, of Culpeper, was identified through "extensive and complex DNA analysis" completed July 7, after her remains were discovered March 27 on private property in Caroline County, according to the sheriff's office.

Authorities announced this month that Rashad Antonio Mayfield, 21, Devonti Gregory Pettaway, 19, Jaden Lamont Phillips, 20, and Kennady Jade Lambert, 18, have each been charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder and use of a firearm in the commission of murder in Banks' death.

WOMAN FOUND IN SHALLOW GRAVE ID’D AFTER 44 YEARS AS MILLIONAIRE TIED TO ESTATE MURDER PLOT

All four suspects were already being held without bond after being charged with murder in the death of 18-year-old Jayden McComber.

Investigators say they suspected early in the case that the two homicide investigations were linked.

McComber disappeared the same day Banks' remains were discovered. His vehicle was recovered the following day in Virginia Beach with assistance from the Virginia Beach Police Department, according to the sheriff's office.

TEENS SUSPECTED OF MURDERING CONGRESSIONAL INTERN LINKED BY DNA ON SHELL CASINGS, PROSECUTORS SAY

Authorities said the vehicle was thoroughly processed and produced "valuable investigative leads" that helped investigators locate McComber's remains and identify the suspects.

McComber's body was found March 31 in a pond near the Caroline County line.

During an April 2 search of a Henrico County residence believed to be associated with Mayfield, investigators recovered personal belongings thought to have been in McComber's possession when he disappeared, authorities said.

Mayfield was arrested on charges during a traffic stop conducted while investigators were searching the residence. Authorities said a handgun was seized from his possession, though they have not disclosed whether the firearm has been linked to either homicide.

Pettaway, Phillips and Lambert were arrested during a simultaneous operation at an apartment on Kenway Avenue in Henrico. Caroline County investigators were assisted in the arrests by the U.S. Marshals Service Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force.

MARSHALS NAB TEEN WANTED FOR MURDER OF PENN STATE STUDENT 1,700 MILES FROM CRIME SCENE, 2ND SUSPECT IN CUSTODY

Following the arrests, Sheriff Scott Moser described the case as a "complex and difficult investigation" and praised the "relentless work" that led authorities to the four suspects.

The sheriff's office said ballistic testing performed with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives later produced forensic evidence linking the two murders.

Investigators say both Banks and McComber knew at least one of the suspects before they were killed. However, authorities said they have uncovered no evidence that either victim had a conflict or dispute with the suspects over what investigators described as "premeditated and deliberate acts."

Authorities have not disclosed a possible motive or said whether Banks and McComber knew one another.

When Banks' remains were first discovered, the property owner who found them was "understandably shaken" and did not approach the body before calling 911, according to the sheriff's office.

"This is a deeply disturbing case," Moser said at the time. "The scene our deputies and investigators encountered was difficult, but they remained focused and professional from the moment they arrived."

The sheriff's office later alleged that those responsible had taken "sick and deliberate" measures to conceal Banks' identity, calling it one of the more disturbing cases investigators had encountered. Authorities have not publicly detailed those alleged measures.

Banks' identity was formally confirmed July 7, and investigators met with her family that evening to notify them.

"This case reflects the relentless commitment of our investigators to pursue the truth," Moser said after announcing the identification. "While no announcement can ease the pain of this loss, we hope today's identification of Helen Marie Pullen Banks provides at least some measure of answers for her loved ones."

The investigation has also involved the Caroline County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office, FBI and ATF. Authorities said they are not searching for any additional suspects, though the case remains active.

The sheriff's office said Banks' family was notified of her identification on July 7 after DNA testing confirmed her identity.

Banks was born in Charlottesville and lived in Rixeyville, according to her obituary. She is survived by five children, her mother, two siblings, 10 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and a large extended family.

"Helen was so much more than the circumstances surrounding her passing," her family wrote in a GoFundMe established to help cover memorial expenses. "She was a daughter, a sister, a mother, a grandmother, and a great-grandmother."

McComber's family also remembered the 18-year-old in a GoFundMe created after his death, describing the week-long search for him as "a nightmare no family should ever have to live through."

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"Jayden was so deeply loved," his family wrote. "He had the biggest heart and made sure the people around him knew it. He never missed a chance to say 'I love you,' and those words mean everything to us now."

The investigation remains active, though authorities say they are not seeking additional suspects.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Caroline County Sheriff's Office, the Caroline County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office, the Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, the FBI, ATF, the Virginia Beach Police Department and court officials for additional information.

Canada reportedly scraps joint bridge celebration with US after Trump renews tariff threat

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:58:55 -0400

Canada on Tuesday called off a joint celebration with the United States to mark the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, following renewed tariff threats from President Donald Trump.

The bridge — which connects Detroit and Windsor, Ontario — was named after legendary Canadian hockey player Gordie Howe who played for the Detroit Red Wings, symbolizing the longstanding relationship between the two countries.

Trump on Monday announced plans to impose a 50% tariff on certain Canadian imports, citing what officials called trade discrimination against American companies in the dairy, auto and alcohol industries. The White House said Canada’s policies gave foreign competitors an unfair advantage.

"In light of trade action threatened by the United States earlier this week, it would be inappropriate to proceed with a celebratory event between the two countries," Jenna Ghassabeh, a spokesperson for Canadian Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson, told Reuters in a statement.

TRUMP SAYS HE WILL BLOCK US-CANADA BRIDGE UNLESS CANADA NEGOTIATES ON TRADE

The bridge was scheduled to open to traffic next Monday, and American and Canadian officials were expected to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens previously told local media, according to Reuters.

Ghassabeh confirmed to Reuters that the bridge will still open next week, but the celebration will be held only "among Canadians."

CANADIAN PM CARNEY FIRES BACK AT TRUMP OVER CLAIM THAT 'CANADA LIVES BECAUSE OF THE UNITED STATES'

The multibillion-bridge project has faced multiple setbacks amid strained relations between the United States and Canada.

In February, Trump threatened to block the project after accusing Canada of unfair trade practices and criticizing its relationship with China. He cited Ontario’s removal of U.S. alcohol products from its liquor store shelves as an example of what he described as unfair treatment.

The bridge opening was later cleared to proceed after the U.S. and Canada reached a deal on how tolls would be charged to drivers earlier this month.

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The new bridge is expected to ease traffic on the privately owned Ambassador Bridge, the largest commercial border crossing between the two countries, which also connects Detroit and Windsor.

The port of entry handled $126 billion in trade carried by commercial trucks in 2023, Reuters reported.

Polls close in Arizona as Trump's GOP clout faces test with House majority

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 05:00:15 -0400

The polls have closed in Arizona as President Donald Trump's immense clout over the GOP and the power of his endorsements in Republican nomination races face their latest test Tuesday night.

Trump's endorsements in a handful of key races, including in a top swing congressional district, could impact the midterm battles for the House majority and control of governors' offices.

Trump is backing Rep. Andy Biggs, a former House Freedom Caucus chairman, for the GOP gubernatorial nomination and the chance to challenge Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs in November.

Biggs, who is also backed by the political wing of the conservative powerhouse Turning Point USA, is considered the frontrunner in a race that also includes longtime Republican Rep. David Schweikert. Also on the ballot are concrete pumping contractor Scott Neely, who's making his second straight run for governor, and business owner Ken Miceli.

DEMOCRACY ’26: STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE FOX NEWS ELECTION HUB

The winner will face off in the general election with Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs, a former Arizona secretary of state who narrowly defeated then-GOP nominee Kari Lake four years ago. Hobbs was unopposed for re-nomination.

Hobbs, who has assembled a formidable campaign war chest, spent roughly $7 million during the primary to run ads, even though she faced no competition.

Down-ballot, the statewide race for the Republican attorney general nomination has become combustible as state Senate President Warren Petersen and military attorney Rodney Glassman have traded fire. The winner will challenge Democratic incumbent Kris Mayes in the general election.

In the race to succeed Schweikert in Arizona's 1st Congressional District, which is anchored in the northeastern Phoenix suburbs, Trump is backing former Arizona Cardinals professional football player and former CBS Sports NFL analyst Jay Feely.

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Former state lawmaker Joseph Chaplik and businessman John Trobough are also running for the GOP nomination in the key swing district.

Former TV anchor Marlene Galán-Woods and former state Rep. Amish Shah are facing off in a rematch for the Democratic congressional nomination. Shah, an emergency room physician, won the 2024 faceoff.

Galán-Woods, a former Republican, has the backing of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, which has big bucks to support her, as well as top Democrats Sen. Mark Kelly and former Gov. Janet Napolitano.

Rick McCartney, president and CEO of InMedia Company, and Jonathan Treble, founder of WithMe, are also on the ballot.

The midterm race in Arizona's 1st District is one of two or three dozen across the country that will determine whether the GOP holds onto its razor-thin House majority.

In the race to replace Biggs in Arizona's 5th District, which is located in the southeastern Phoenix suburbs, including parts of Mesa, Trump is backing former Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb, who is facing off with construction contractor Daniel Keenan for the GOP nomination.

Keenan has made the sexual misconduct and abuse-of-power allegations against Lamb a key part of his campaign. The Pinal County attorney last month cleared Lamb of criminal wrongdoing as it closed its investigation. And Trump, despite the controversy, reaffirmed his endorsement of Lamb earlier this month.

The winner of the Republican primary will be considered the clear favorite to succeed Biggs in the solidly red district.

The brute force of the president's endorsement power has been on display in GOP primaries this spring and summer, with his candidates ousting incumbents he targeted in showdowns in Indiana, Kentucky and Texas, as well as the Louisiana primary.

But Trump's endorsement streak in statewide and congressional Republican primaries was snapped in early June when his last-minute endorsement of Republican Rep. Randy Feenstra of Iowa in the race to succeed retiring GOP Gov. Kim Reynolds wasn't enough to propel the three-term congressman to victory.

Feenstra was narrowly edged by Zach Lahn, a businessman, farmer and former political strategist who was backed by the political wings of MAHA — the acronym for the Make America Healthy Again movement aligned with Trump's Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. — and Turning Point USA, the powerful conservative organization co-founded by the late Charlie Kirk.

Trump-backed candidates won two of the three top races in key GOP primary runoff elections in Georgia and Alabama last month, with the one setback coming against a billionaire businessman who shelled out over $100 million of his own money to boost his campaign.

A week later, Trump-backed first-time candidate Anthony Constantino, a businessman and former boxer, defeated Robert Smullen, a retired Marine Corps colonel and New York assemblyman who had the backing of the state party, in the upstate New York race to succeed retiring GOP Rep. Elise Stefanik.

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Meanwhile, in South Carolina's Republican gubernatorial runoff, Trump couldn't lose.

That's because, besides backing Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette a few weeks earlier, he also gave a last-minute endorsement to state Attorney General Alan Wilson, who ended up winning the late June showdown in a landslide.

The president also enjoyed victory in Louisiana, where Sen. Bill Cassidy, who voted to convict Trump in his 2021 impeachment trial, was ousted as he sought re-nomination. Trump-backed Rep. Julia Letlow ended up winning the nomination in last month's runoff election.

Fox News' Olivia Palombo contributed to this story

Panthers' Taylor Moton moved to non-football injury list with blood clot as offensive line concerns grow

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:53:12 -0400

For the first time in a decade, the Carolina Panthers returned to the top of the NFC South. Their breakthrough season ended in January with a home wild-card thriller, where they pushed Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams to the brink.

After picking up Bryce Young’s fifth-year option and adding key pieces across the roster, the Panthers enter 2026 with higher expectations as the team eyes a second consecutive division title. But Carolina’s offensive line took another hit Tuesday, creating the latest test for a unit charged with protecting the former No. 1 overall pick.

Taylor Moton, the Panthers veteran starting right tackle, will be sidelined when the regular season kicks off in September. Moton learned in late June that doctors had discovered a blood clot in his left lung. The Panthers confirmed on Tuesday that the 31-year-old will miss the start of the season.

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Moton’s setback comes with starting left tackle Ikem Ekwonu still recovering from a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee. Ekwonu suffered the injury during the Panthers’ playoff game.

Ekwonu underwent emergency appendectomy surgery last August.

BRONCOS STAR QUARTERBACK BO NIX UNDERWENT SECOND PROCEDURE ON SURGICALLY REPAIRED ANKLE: REPORT

Moton was moved to the non-football injury list, joining two-time Pro Bowl defensive back Jaycee Horn.

The cornerback missed a Week 12 game against the San Francisco 49ers last season but finished the year with 16 game appearances. Horn landed on the non-football injury list this week after cutting his foot while running, according to the Panthers.

After the diagnosis, Moton was put on blood thinners and the team said he has responded well to the treatment. Carolina’s medical staff continues to monitor the veteran lineman day-to-day.

The Panthers had already moved to protect themselves on the left side, signing veteran tackle Rasheed Walker in March as a potential replacement for Ekwonu. Moton’s absence could now create an opening on the right side for Monroe Freeling, the offensive tackle Carolina selected with the No. 18 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Panthers wasted little time addressing the left side of the offensive line, signing Rasheed Walker in March as insurance for Ekwonu. The next month, Carolina doubled down up front by selecting Monroe Freeling in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

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The Panthers selected Moton in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of Western Michigan. He has spent all nine seasons of his NFL career with Carolina.

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Mamdani goes back on campaign promise, says NYC can't arrest Netanyahu

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:38:22 -0400

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani acknowledged Tuesday that he can't have Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrested despite promising to do so during his mayoral campaign.

But he called on the federal government to execute an International Criminal Court's arrest warrant if the Israeli leader visits New York.

In a video posted on X, Mamdani called Netanyahu a "war criminal" while conceding that New York City could not enforce the ICC warrant on its own.

"As I've said, I agree with the ICC that Benjamin Netanyahu should be arrested and tried for his crimes, as I do for anyone else charged by the ICC," Mamdani said.

NETANYAHU FIRES BACK AT NYC MAYOR MAMDANI'S VOW TO ENFORCE 'BOGUS ARREST WARRANT'

"My administration has reviewed every avenue available under applicable law to determine whether New York City could execute the International Criminal Court's arrest warrant if Benjamin Netanyahu came here," he continued.

"It is clear that we do not have the independent legal authority to enforce this warrant. The federal government, however, does, and I call on them to join the ICC and execute this warrant."

Mamdani's comments underscored that a New York City mayor lacks the authority to enforce an International Criminal Court warrant or create a New York arrest warrant by executive order.

Mamdani nonetheless said Netanyahu would not be welcome in New York City.

MAMDANI’S ‘DERANGED’ ISRAEL TAKE RESURFACES AS HE TARGETS NETANYAHU

"I want to be equally clear: Benjamin Netanyahu is not welcome in New York City, nor is any other war criminal at large," he said.

The remarks marked a reversal from Mamdani's 2025 campaign pledge that New York City would arrest Netanyahu if the Israeli prime minister came to New York.

Mamdani's comments came two days after he told The New York Times that the city's Law Department was reviewing whether New York had the legal authority to arrest Netanyahu if he visited the city.

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION TOUTS MORE THAN $1B IN UN BUDGET CUTS AS REFORM PUSH GAINS MOMENTUM

Netanyahu is expected to travel to New York in September for the United Nations General Assembly.

"I believe that Prime Minister Netanyahu belongs in The Hague," Mamdani told the Times. "He's a war criminal who has been charged by the International Criminal Court."

Netanyahu's office dismissed the comments Sunday, calling the ICC a "kangaroo court" with "no jurisdiction over Americans or Israelis."

"Instead of backing Khan's criminal behaviour, Mr. Mamdani should focus on fixing the damage his policies have caused New York," Netanyahu's office said.

The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024 over alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity tied to Israel's military campaign in Gaza.

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Fox News Digital has reached out to the Justice Department and Netanyahu's office for comment.

Fox News Digital's Ashley J. DiMella, Eric Mack and Jasmine Baehr contributed to this report.

Stephen A Smith says he confronted ESPN bosses over Ryan Clark firing: 'I am not happy'

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:33:14 -0400

Stephen A. Smith is blowing his top after ESPN cold-bloodedly axed his friend, Ryan Clark.

OutKick first confirmed the details of Clark's exit, revealing that executives pulled the plug on the Super Bowl champion while he was actively co-hosting "NFL Live" on live television.

After learning The Mothership had tossed his broadcast partner into the corporate meat grinder, Smith went straight to his YouTube show and let it rip.

ESPN PARTING WAYS WITH NFL ANALYST RYAN CLARK AHEAD OF NETWORK'S FIRST SUPER BOWL BROADCAST

"My brother, Ryan Clark, a person that I consider to be arguably the best NFL analyst in America, is no longer a member of ESPN," a visibly distraught Smith told his online audience.

"And I can't even tell y'all how much that hurts."

Network brass originally planned to notify the gridiron star on Tuesday.

However, after OutKick's very own Dan Zaksheske and Bobby Burack contacted ESPN PR about an impending story detailing the dismissal, executives rushed to yank Clark off the broadcast so he would not read about his firing on social media.

EXCLUSIVE: ESPN TO PART WAYS WITH CAM NEWTON AS PART OF TALENT LAYOFFS THAT ALSO INCLUDED RYAN CLARK

Smith revealed that Bristol management actually approached him before pulling the trigger on Clark.

Yet, despite Smith being the ratings magnet on the network, his pleas to protect his colleague were ignored.

"Was I asked what I thought what my feelings were? Yes, I was," Smith admitted during his stream. "Of course I said we have to keep them. But I don't get to make those decisions. And I don't get to ignore the fiscal and financial circumstances and ultimate ramifications that come with the job."

Smith made it clear that he confronted top bosses directly.

ESPN LOSES SOLE EXECUTIVE WHO CRACKED DOWN ON POLITICAL, RACIAL RHETORIC

"I am not happy about this decision one bit. The bosses know I am not happy about this decision," Smith declared.

"I've made that very, very clear. The only thing that I can definitively say to you is that there's nobody that's going to be let go that was more of a friend and a brother to me than Ryan Clark."

"When I saw how people were talking about him, I was like, 'They don't know him at all,'" Smith fumed. "He was conscientious and thoughtful."

Even as he voiced his disapproval, Smith conceded that executives operating at the direction of parent company Disney ultimately answer to the bottom line.

"Decisions like this, I would imagine, don't come easy. They have to be made... Business is business," Smith acknowledged.

"It's Tuesday, and by the end of the day you're going to hear about a lot more folks getting laid off. For all I know, some of my friends are going to be gone."

Clark's tenure at ESPN also came with no shortage of controversy. He drew backlash for comments following Charlie Kirk's assassination, came under scrutiny for his handling of Kyren Lacy's death, and sparred on air with fellow analyst Peter Schrager, dismissing him as a "non-player."

SAS signed off his broadcast with an emotional personal message directly to his ousted partner.

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"Love you bro, you know that. Always, always here," Smith said. "Talk to you soon."

Send us your thoughts: alejandro.avila@outkick.com / Follow along on X: @alejandroaveela

Florida woman charged with murder evading police after body found in shallow grave: sheriff

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 07:12:45 -0400

A Florida woman accused of killing a man whose body was later found buried in a shallow grave is believed to be moving between multiple states under a string of aliases, with investigators warning the public not to be fooled by the stories she has allegedly used to stay one step ahead of authorities.

Isabelle Johnson, 38, is wanted in connection with the murder of 43-year-old Jason Christopher Coulthart and is believed to be "actively evading law enforcement," according to the Walton County Sheriff's Office.

Coulthart's remains were found buried on a property in Freeport, located in Florida's Panhandle, the sheriff's office said over the weekend. He was last seen on May 24 leaving the College Condominiums.

NORTH CAROLINA COLD CASE HEATS UP WITH STEPMOTHER ACCUSED OF KILLING MISSING TEEN

After he was reported missing, investigators "developed information" that led them to the property in Freeport, where Coulthart's body was recovered on June 25.

"This is not the news we hoped to deliver to our Niceville community," said Niceville Chief of Police Mark Hayse. "We stand with Jason's family and will continue working closely with our partners to see this case through."

Investigators believe Johnson was involved in Coulthart's death and have issued a warrant for her arrest.

FORMER WISCONSIN JUDGE HANNAH DUGAN AVOIDS JAIL TIME FOR OBSTRUCTING ARREST OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT

She is believed to be "actively evading law enforcement," the sheriff's office said. Authorities have not disclosed her relationship with Coulthart.

Johnson could be using multiple aliases, including Harley, Jessica Elaine Bowman, Jessica Elaine Thrush, Jessica Dowdy, and others, authorities said.

Authorities say Johnson has ties to Florida, Georgia and Alabama and has used multiple aliases, including Harley, Jessica Elaine Bowman, Jessica Elaine Thrush, Jessica Elaine Thrash, Jessica Dowdy and possibly "Denise." Investigators also believe she may have recently changed her appearance.

In a pointed message posted to social media, the sheriff's office addressed Johnson directly. "Justice is coming. Isabelle. Harley. Jessica. Whatever you're calling yourself now," the agency wrote. "Turn yourself in. Enough is enough."

Five people have now been arrested in connection with the killing. Michael Ray White, 74, and Kathleen Morris, 59, of Santa Rosa Beach, along with Bobbi Wagstaff, Martin Leaverton and Sandra Leaverton, have all been charged with accessory to a capital felony after the fact. Investigators allege White knowingly helped Johnson evade law enforcement between June 25 and 30.

Morris was arrested after admitting she helped Johnson with transportation and supplies, as well as misleading law enforcement officials over Johnson being at her home, FOX 10 News reported.

"Anyone found to have helped or who is still assisting Isabelle Johnson avoid arrest will be charged accordingly," said Walton County Sheriff Michael Adkinson. "If you give her a place to stay, help her hide, or lie for her, you will face consequences. This is a homicide case. We will not allow anyone to get in the way of this investigation."

Adkinson has also vowed to hold everyone involved accountable.

"The next step in this investigation is to hold every single person involved in Jason's death accountable," Adkinson said. "If they knew, if they helped, or if they chose not to speak up, they will have to answer for their role in this."

The Habersham County Sheriff's Office in Georgia also warned that Johnson has been known to manipulate people into helping her.

"She is believed to travel between multiple locations and has been known to manipulate individuals into providing her transportation, money, or other assistance using sympathy narratives, such as domestic violence and other hardships," the agency said.

Authorities also released what they described as the last known video of Johnson, showing her inside a Destin business just days after Coulthart's remains were discovered.

"It's possible Johnson has changed her appearance since this video," the sheriff's office said. "But it does give a good idea of what her voice may sound like."

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As investigators continue searching for Johnson, the sheriff's office is urging the public to remember the man behind the investigation.

Family members described Coulthart as someone who "would give you the shirt off his back," while friends remembered him for quietly helping people in need. He leaves behind a 20-year-old son.

"Their son. Timothy's big brother. A father. A friend. Someone who showed up. Someone who made people feel cared for," the sheriff's office wrote. "Someone worth knowing. Someone worth finding justice for."

Fox News Digital reached out to the Walton County Sheriff's Office seeking any updates on the investigation or search for Johnson but did not immediately receive a response.

Mamdani says even if he can get along with Trump, he still demands that 'ICE should be abolished'

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:30:13 -0400

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani spoke to Rolling Stone for an interview published Tuesday about how he and President Donald Trump can agree on a shared love of New York, but they are sharply divided about ICE.

After widespread media concern about the rise of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, he shocked the nation by having a surprisingly chummy meeting with Trump after months of wary rhetoric from both politicians.

In one viral moment, Trump gracefully shrugged off a reporter asking Mamdani about his past comments of Trump being a fascist, saying he doesn’t care.

A Rolling Stone interviewer marveled at this as he spoke to Mamdani, saying, "I think that was kind of one of the most striking parts of the very beginning of your tenure as mayor was that meeting with Trump at the White House that went, I think to pretty much any observer, really well for both of you. He probably felt the same way.

MAMDANI DESCRIBES TRUMP RELATIONSHIP AS 'HONEST' AND 'DIRECT' AMID RECENT BLOWOUT

"What's your current relationship now?"

"The relationship is as it was. It's built around New York City," Mamdani said. "I think for all of the many disagreements that the president and I have, we have one thing in common, which is a love of this place. And whenever we speak, whenever we meet, it always comes back to that."

The interviewer recalled recent controversies when ICE performed widespread raids in America’s major cities, asking the mayor whether he tries to stay on Trump’s good side to prevent a similarly scaled mass deportation raid in New York City.

TOM HOMAN WARNS ICE SURGE COMING TO NEW YORK CITY AS MAMDANI BOASTS ABOUT SANCTUARY STATUS

"I think I need to continue to be honest with the president, and that honesty is in places of disagreement," Mamdani replied. "I've spoken to him directly about how I think of ICE as a cruel agency that does nothing to serve the interests of public safety. And I've spoken about how I think that ICE should be abolished. We should have an immigration system that has humanity at the heart of it.

"And, also, the president, he is a New Yorker. In that first meeting, as much as we were having a conversation as the mayor and the president, we were also having a conversation as two New Yorkers, even at one point talking about community boards and zoning laws."

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World Cup hero Ferran Torres doubles down after criticism, posts picture wearing 'Make Spain Great Again' hat

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:10:27 -0400

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the most successful tournament in the organization's history, recently came to a close with Spain beating Argentina in extra time to win their second ever title.

It was the culmination of a remarkable defensive performance from the Spanish national team, a run where they allowed just one goal throughout the tournament. Despite facing Belgium, arguably the most talented roster in the world, France, and Argentina with one of the best goal scorers in history, Lionel Messi. But it wasn't one of their defenders that grabbed headlines afterward, it was the Cup-winning goal scorer Ferran Torres.

Torres after the match said that he felt the goal was the result of support from the Spanish population.

SPAIN BEATS ARGENTINA TO WIN 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP BEHIND FERRAN TORRES' EXTRA-TIME GOAL

"I think in the end the goal came from 47 million people [the estimated Spain population], not just those of us that are here," Torres said to FIFA broadcasters after the win, per ESPN. "Today destiny was written, it was made for us to win. We’re far from our people today but we tried to be as close as possible to them."

Then, during the parade, he was photographed wearing a red "Make Spain Great Again" hat, in an apparent reference to President Donald Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan. Criticism from the political left was, predictably, swift and intense.

The deputy spokesman for the left-wing "Sumar" group in Spain immediately accused Torres of speculating in real estate, as just one example. The progressive media outlet El Plural said his hat was a "clear ideological message, provoking a multitude of criticism" on social media.

FERRAN TORRES SPORTS 'MAKE SPAIN GREAT AGAIN' HAT SIMILAR TO TRUMP'S SLOGAN AT WORLD CUP HOMECOMING PARADE

Well, Torres either didn't hear the criticism or didn't care, because in a new post on X from Tuesday evening, he posted several photos from the parade, prominently featuring the hat.

The caption, "Somos los reyessssss! Vaya locura!," roughly translates to "We are the kings! It's absolutely crazy!"

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It's still unclear whether Torres meant to wear the hat as a nod to right-wing causes in Spain, as an attempt to mock Trump, or whether it was just a fun nod to the fact that the president presented the trophy to the national team. Though it does seem that most left-leaning commentators and politicians took it as a statement of support for reforming the country, which is currently under the control of a far-left socialist government led by Pedro Sanchez.

A YouGov poll in June found that Sanchez had just a 33% approval rating, with 63% holding unfavorable views. Perhaps this was a result of his plan to give residence permits to illegal immigrants in Spain. Which, given Trump's stance on immigration enforcement , seemingly, aligns with the "MSGA" hat.

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Regardless, it's telling that the Barcelona star has made no apology for wearing it, despite the criticism.

Athletics rookie diagnosed with brutal injury after fouling ball off of his nether region

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:08:16 -0400

Athletics infielder Joshua Kuroda-Grauer got a taste of a serious career high on Monday against the Arizona Diamondbacks when he hit his first career home run.

However, he came crashing back to earth innings later when he fouled a ball straight into his own testicles.

The universe certainly likes to bring you crashing back to earth, doesn't it?

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On Monday, after homering in the second inning and striking out in the third, Kuroda-Grauer was back at the dish and fouled a pitch straight into his own crotch.

It appears he might come from the Jazz Chisholm school of not wearing a cup.

Though, even if he was wearing one, that would still hurt like hell.

But what's wild is that, as you saw in that clip, Kuroda-Grauer got back on the proverbial horse and knocked a base hit into centerfield in that same at-bat.

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That was a gutsy performance — especially in game 100 out of 162 for a team 14 games below .500 — but that shot to the groin-al region did some serious damage.

On Tuesday, the Athletics announced a couple of injuries, one of which was Kuroda-Grauer, who sustained a ruptured testicle.

Jeez. Get well soon, man.

Those are two words I hate seeing next to each other. So does every guy on the face of the earth.

This just lends more credence to my argument that it probably isn't a bad idea for all of us to wear cups all the time.

No one would regret wearing one until they weren't wearing one and fouled a pitch into their nards or walked into the corner of their dresser while trying to navigate the bedroom in the dark.

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If Joshua Kuroda-Grauer wasn't wearing one on Monday night, I think there's a decent chance he throws one on when he returns to action in about two weeks.

Or, at least considers it, then doesn't.

'Jumping ship': House Dem finds exit strategy after SCOTUS ruling shifts advantage to GOP

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 21:04:57 -0400

Democratic Rep. Cleo Fields of Louisiana announced Tuesday he will not seek re-election to Congress after a Supreme Court ruling and new Louisiana congressional map reshaped his district in Republicans’ favor.

Fields said in a statement announcing his plans he will instead run to fill the unexpired term for the state Senate in Louisiana’s 14th District, saying he feels his "calling to serve the people is better put to use back home than here in D.C."

"I intend to answer that call," Fields added.

LOUISIANA SUSPENDS CONGRESSIONAL PRIMARIES IN WAKE OF SUPREME COURT GERRYMANDERING RULING

Fields is seeking to return to the state Senate seat he held before winning election to Congress in 2024. State Sen. Larry Selders won a 2025 special election to fill the vacancy Fields left, but his death earlier this month opened up the seat once again.

The National Republican Congressional Committee took advantage of the announcement, arguing Fields was "jumping ship" shortly after the committee added Louisiana’s 6th Congressional District to its target list.

The NRCC announced Monday that LA-06 was among seven additional Democratic-held seats it was targeting, saying President Donald Trump carried the newly drawn district by 32.1 points in 2024.

SUPREME COURT RULES ON KEY VOTING RIGHTS ACT RULE AS REPUBLICANS AND DEMOCRATS WAGE REDISTRICTING WAR

Fields has had a long career in elected office, first being elected to the Louisiana State Senate in 1987, then running for Congress unsuccessfully in 1990. Fields tried again and eventually joined Congress in 1992, during which he also ran for governor and lost.

Fields left Congress after two terms, returned to the state senate for a decade and then was elected back to Congress in 2024 after a prior congressional redistricting effort created a second majority-Black district.

The current redistricting fight in Louisiana dates back to the state’s post-2020 census map, which included one majority-Black congressional district before a federal court found the map likely violated the Voting Rights Act and ordered the state to add a second.

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Louisiana lawmakers then adopted a 2024 map that turned Fields’ 6th Congressional District into a second majority-Black seat favorable to Democrats, but the Supreme Court later ruled in Louisiana v. Callais that the district was an unconstitutional racial gerrymander, prompting state lawmakers to approve new lines that reduced the state back to one majority-Black district and five Republican-favored districts.

Alleged 'mime' stalker stripped to underwear, covered himself in cooking oil: officials

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 20:47:52 -0400

Not all mimes stay silent. One is now accused of terrorizing women.

A Massachusetts man known for roaming in a black-and-white mime costume is accused of frightening women for months at a popular state park, where prosecutors say he allegedly stripped to his underwear, slathered himself in cooking oil and worked out near female employees before later collapsing in court as the allegations were read aloud.

Hernan Villagran Lux, 29, of Framingham, is facing criminal harassment charges after three female state Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) employees had up to over 50 encounters over the past two months at a Natick state park near Boston.

Prosecutors said all three women knew Lux by name and appearance, and one reported more than 50 encounters that authorities said escalated over time, eventually leaving employees afraid to work around him.

FLORIDA MAN WHO ALLEGEDLY LURED WOMEN WITH DATING APP COULD HAVE MORE VICTIMS: AUTHORITIES

The allegations have also sparked warnings on social media, where people across several Massachusetts communities said they recognized the suspect and claimed he had approached or followed women on a nearby rail trail.

Authorities arrested Lux Sunday night on the Cochituate Rail Trail, after multiple women and park workers alleged he repeatedly approached them, stared at them and refused to leave despite repeated requests, according to Boston 25 News.

"The women report an extensive number of contacts with the defendant involving him staring at them, smiling in what they describe as 'a really unnerving and frankly terrifying manner,'" Framingham District Court Supervisor Andrew Mange said during Monday's court hearing.

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Mange said the encounters became increasingly bold. In one incident, prosecutors allege Lux "stripped down to his underwear, slathered cooking oil all over his body and began working out right by their staff area."

The women also reported that Lux repeatedly refused to leave the park after being asked to do so, according to the station.

Prosecutors also alleged Lux complimented one employee's appearance, commented on her lips and refused to leave as she and coworkers abandoned their work area because they felt unsafe.

Boston 25 reported that numerous people posted on social media saying they had spotted a man matching Lux's distinctive mime-like appearance throughout Framingham, Natick and Wayland.

Several women also claimed a man fitting the same description approached and followed them on the Cochituate Rail Trail.

"I spotted him, he looked kind of odd but I thought he was just dressed in a costume," neighbor Nancy Dlott told Boston 25. "It's kind of upsetting, especially if you're walking alone," she added.

"I just don't understand what goes through someone's head to do that," Christopher Labella told the station. "I hope this guy gets the help that he needs."

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As prosecutors continued reading the allegations in court Monday, Lux fainted and was treated before proceedings resumed, according to Boston 25.

When court resumed later in the afternoon, the judge ordered Lux to undergo a mental health evaluation at Bridgewater State Hospital.

Jelly Roll's daughter fiercely denies cheating rumors, days after divorce from Bunnie Xo finalized

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 20:34:51 -0400

Jelly Roll's daughter fiercely defended her family, days after his divorce from Bunnie Xo was finalized.

Bailee Ann, 18, staunchly denied infidelity rumors between the former couple during a TikTok livestream Sunday.

The "Son of a Sinner" singer petitioned Tennessee courts for a divorce May 18, according to documents obtained by Fox News Digital. A judge finalized the end to their marriage Friday.

JELLY ROLL, BUNNIE XO HINTED AT DIVORCE WEEKS BEFORE THE NEWS BROKE WITH CRYPTIC LYRICS AND MISSING RINGS

He listed the date of separation as May 9 and cited irreconcilable differences.

"Nobody cheated," Bailee said on the livestream, according to People. "Period. [Get] the f--- out of my comments, my DMs, my live with that s---, I don’t care, I don’t want to talk about it."

She told her followers they had "no f---ing idea what happened, and wait ‘til y’all find out," before threatening that "the internet in totality is about to f---ing crumble the day that I open my mouth."

BUNNIE XO SAYS SHE FUNDED JELLY ROLL'S EARLY CAREER BY 'TURNING TRICKS' WHILE REFLECTING ON DIVORCE

"It’s not a difference in f---ing opinions," she said. "Nobody else lived in it. So don’t f---ing even. I’m for real so done. Good? Everybody good? We’re on the same page? Cool."

Bunnie Xo and Jelly Roll (born Jason DeFord) have fiercely defended their private relationship after news of their split broke the internet with accusations of cheating.

Terms of their settlement remain confidential. However, People reported the former couple will split their assets, including homes, cars, an aircraft and any intellectual property.

Additionally, the "Save Me" singer will make a "one-time, confidential lump sum payment to Bunnie, so there will be no alimony claims to be made in court," the outlet reported.

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Bunnie, who's full name is Alisa DeFord, recently gave her social media followers a tour of her new Nashville-area home, which included hidden stairways, multiple massive closets, opulent floral rooms, an outdoor shower and an infinity pool.

Of the many topics discussed in her since-scrubbed "divorce" podcast episode, Bunnie admitted her past life as a high-end escort funded their lifestyle when they first dated.

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"When Jay and I first got together, we were two kids who literally had nothing," Bunnie said of her ex. "Everybody always likes to say that I had all the money when we first got together, and I did this for him and I did that for him. And, I mean, I had sugar daddies at the time that were paying for all of this."

"Like, we have — and I'm not trying to take the, the light off of what I did for him — but, like, we were still in the streets. We were making money as it came.

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"It wasn't like I was over here just sitting on f---ing a million dollars and was taking care of him. Like, I was turning tricks to pay our bills and to get lawyers and to travel and to, you know, go on tour and stuff like that."

The former couple tied the knot in August 2016 during a whirlwind Las Vegas ceremony after meeting the previous year. She became a stepmom to the country singer’s daughter, Bailee, and son, Noah.

New docs reveal frantic moments after Forest Service workers are taken hostage in California wilderness

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 09:12:05 -0400

A California man accused of kidnapping two U.S. Forest Service biologists at gunpoint allegedly used one of his captive's cellphones to declare, "I've taken two fed biologists hostage," before demanding to speak with the FBI, according to newly unsealed federal court documents.

The new allegations, contained in an FBI affidavit filed after Friday's dramatic rescue, offer the clearest picture yet of the roughly 15-hour hostage ordeal that unfolded near Gumboot Lake in the remote Shasta-Trinity National Forest in Northern California.

Joseph Charles Henrichsen, 49, and his son, Phoenix Henrichsen, 23, allegedly took the two federal workers' hostage inside a trailer in a rural area near Mt. Shasta.

According to the affidavit, Joseph Henrichsen approached the biologists carrying what investigators described as an AR-15-style rifle, ordered them to raise their hands and zip-tied their wrists behind their backs before forcing them into the trailer.

The FBI deployed a hostage negotiator from Quantico to coordinate with local authorities. The authorities negotiated the hostages' release after hours of talks with the kidnappers.

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Investigators allege Joseph Henrichsen later removed one of the biologists from the trailer at gunpoint, placed her in a U.S. Forest Service pickup truck and drove several miles toward Lake Siskiyou while carrying the rifle.

Using the victim's cellphone, Henrichsen allegedly called a U.S. Forest Service ranger before leaving a voicemail for an acquaintance.

"I've taken two fed biologists hostage from the Forest Service," Henrichsen allegedly said in the message, according to the affidavit. "She's zip-tied, her hands are behind her ... and I've got live rounds ready."

Investigators say Henrichsen demanded an FBI investigator come meet with him before returning the victim to the trailer.

Federal investigators allege Henrichsen later repeated the process with the second biologist, repeatedly separating the victims during the ordeal.

FAMILY STOPPED ALLEGED CHILD KIDNAPPER AS POLICE SAY STAFFING SHORTAGE DELAYED RESPONSE UP TO 40 MINUTES

While Joseph Henrichsen drove away with one hostage in the government vehicle, prosecutors say Phoenix Henrichsen remained inside the trailer with the other victim.

After the rescue, one of the biologists told investigators Phoenix "kept watch" over the captives whenever his father stepped outside.

As local, state and federal law enforcement officers converged on the remote campground, Joseph Henrichsen allegedly began communicating with authorities over the Forest Service truck's radio, refusing repeated demands to release the hostages and surrender.

Negotiators with the FBI, including members of the bureau's elite Hostage Rescue Team from Quantico, Virginia, spent hours trying to peacefully end the standoff, according to the affidavit. Around 8:20 p.m., investigators say Joseph Henrichsen claimed he had a grenade and warned he would use it if officers did not back away.

During a Friday news conference, before the affidavit was unsealed, FBI Sacramento Acting Special Agent in Charge Brian Tosh said the situation remained volatile throughout the standoff.

"At any point, it could go from under control to very dangerous," Tosh said.

At the same briefing, Siskiyou County Sheriff Jeremiah LaRue described the massive, multi-agency response after authorities learned two U.S. Forest Service employees had been taken hostage near Gumboot Lake.

"It was a large incident, and I'd like to tell you it's probably the smoothest thing I've seen in many years," LaRue said, praising the coordination between local, state and federal agencies.

The standoff ended early Friday after hours of negotiations. According to the FBI affidavit, both hostages were released shortly after 1 a.m.

Phoenix Henrichsen surrendered around 2:30 a.m., followed by Joseph Henrichsen about five minutes later.

Following the rescue, U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz thanked the agencies involved in bringing the ordeal to a peaceful end.

"I am grateful beyond words that both of our Forest Service employees are home safe," Schultz said, calling the outcome "a testament to the skill and professionalism" of Forest Service law enforcement officers, the FBI, the Siskiyou County Sheriff's Office and other first responders.

"This was a frightening experience for everyone involved," he continued. "Their well-being continues to be our highest priority. We’re staying close to them and their loved ones, making sure they have the support and the space that they need after what they’ve been through."

Following the rescue, FBI Director Kash Patel praised the bureau's response in a post on X, saying FBI Sacramento crisis negotiators, the SWAT Team, the Evidence Response Team and the elite Hostage Rescue Team helped bring the dangerous standoff to a peaceful end.

"After nearly 10 hours of negotiations, the hostages were safely released — and subjects Joseph Henrichsen and Phoenix Henrichsen surrendered and were immediately taken into custody," Patel wrote.

"I am proud of the immediate and professional work of these elite FBI teams to assist our partners for a safe and successful resolution."

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, the kidnapping triggered a massive law enforcement response involving local, state and federal agencies from across the country before negotiators secured the safe release of both victims.

Both Joseph and Phoenix Henrichsen are charged with two counts of kidnapping federal employees. If convicted, each faces up to life in federal prison.

Both defendants appeared in federal court Monday, where a magistrate judge ordered them detained pending further proceedings. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Aug. 3.

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A motive has not yet been identified. Investigators said Joseph Henrichsen initially communicated with negotiators before later refusing to cooperate as the hours-long standoff continued.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of California told Fox News Digital the office is not providing additional comment and will not release recordings or transcripts of the hostage negotiations.

Fox News Digital has also reached out to attorneys representing the Henrichsens for comment.

Angels fans' 'tarps off' cheer helps team break 106-game streak against Cardinals

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 20:11:07 -0400

One of the most fun celebrations in baseball may have just helped the Los Angeles Angels break a 100-plus-game streak Monday night.

For the first time in 106 games, the Angels won a game when trailing in the ninth inning, according to ESPN. And their fans had a cheer to help propel their team to a walk-off victory against the St. Louis Cardinals.

It’s called the "tarps off" cheer, and it’s become a movement this season. Simply put, fans take off their shirts and wave them around in a specific section of the field, and that happened to be right field at Angel Stadium Monday night.

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Hundreds of fans waved their shirts and cheered for their squad, which was down 2-1 in the top of the eighth inning.

The rabid cheering section continued through the bottom of the ninth when Jo Adell came to the dish with the bases loaded and a tie ballgame with the chance to walk it off.

Perhaps it was the "tarps off" movement that got to the Cardinals’ pitcher, who plunked Adell, allowing Zach Neto to trot to home plate with the winning run.

It’s also something the Cardinals’ fan base made famous this season. Busch Stadium has become a hot bed for some shirts-off celebrating.

On May 15, the Cardinals were facing the Kansas City Royals when in the stands did the cheer. It was even something Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said urged him to buy tickets for those fans that wished to participate in it.

However, Angels fans gave those Cardinals faithful a taste of their own medicine, and it’s something they’ve been running with since May.

The movement has also become a form of protest. "Sell the team" has been chanted from those right-field seats on numerous occasions this season. Angels owner Arte Moreno has come under fire since the team has not made the playoffs since 2014.

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The Angels are once again at the bottom of the barrel in the AL West with a 40-61 record despite the 3-2 win Monday night. They sit 11 games out of the division lead.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Sophie Cunningham speaks out on protecting girls from competing against 'biological men'

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 20:10:42 -0400

WNBA star Sophie Cunningham has made her position on protecting women's sports clear.

In an ESPN interview, the fan-favorite Caitlin Clark teammate addressed the issue for the first time.

SUPREME COURT MAKES RULING ON TRANS ATHLETES IN WOMEN'S SPORTS

"I got a lot of negative feedback about me hating trans. And I'm like, 'I never once said that,'" Cunningham said.

"I think that I am here to extend love. 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.

"I'm very much in the middle. I agree with things on both sides, disagree with things on both sides. And that's all I've ever said about my political beliefs. But people love to assume."

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Cunningham previously garnered backlash from the left in March 2022 after re-sharing a tweet from CBS Sports host Josh Pate about the controversy surrounding former Penn transgender swimmer Lia Thomas competing on the women's team.

"Female collegiate athletes deserve so much better than this," Pate’s tweet said.

Cunningham faced so much backlash over the re-share that she released a statement.

"To my teammates, friends, family, supporters and fans, you know that I stand with all people, especially my fellow athletes. I do not judge, but support all races, religions, sexual preferences and gender equity. We all have a place in this world to compete and I hope we are able to grant everyone that opportunity fairly." she wrote.

Cunningham has emerged as one of the biggest stars in the WNBA over the last year, especially among conservatives.

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Riley Gaines, who infamously tied with Thomas at the 2022 NCAA women's swimming championships, told Fox News Digital on the last day of June, after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled to uphold state laws that keep biological males out of women's sports, that she hoped the ruling would be a "clarion call" for athletes like Cunningham to speak out in support of protecting women's sports.

"Let this be a clarion call, not just to Simone, but to every, I think especially elite female athlete, professional female athlete, the likes of Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, Serena Williams, to link arms," Gaines said.

IRS in the hot seat over potential cash grab from Spain's World Cup winnings: 'It's a rip-off'

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 20:00:57 -0400

As reigning 2026 FIFA World Cup champions, Spain won $50 million in prize money, but a large portion of that could be subject to federal taxes in the United States — potentially up to 30%.

"I think it's a rip-off," Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., told Fox News Digital.

"I'm not a fan of it, but Americans have to do it. American professional athletes do it, so they knew that when they came over here."

SPAIN BEATS ARGENTINA TO WIN 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP BEHIND FERRAN TORRES' EXTRA-TIME GOAL

Income earned from activities performed in America is generally, in almost all instances, taxable by the IRS. Under tax law in the U.S., certain payments to nonresident foreign athletes are generally subject to a 30% federal withholding unless reduced by a tax treaty or a different exception.

"It's wrong, and that kind of highlights something bigger," Rep. Jonathan Jackson, D-Ill., said about the potential high tax rate on Spain’s prize.

Burchett argued the potential tax burden sends the wrong message as the U.S. prepares to host more major international sporting events, saying the country should be encouraging foreign athletes and visitors to spend money domestically rather than subjecting them to steep tax obligations.

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"I'm not a big fan of the IRS," Burchett said. "They made that money over here, I guess, but I don't like all that. We want to encourage these people to come over here and spend their money, and then we take a big chunk of it.

"We've got to get a better tax system."

The World Cup’s prize pool totaled $871 million, with $655 million of that total relying on performance in the tournament. All teams that participated in games in the U.S., even if the only payment received was for participation, will have the earnings taxed at some amount.

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Jackson also criticized the broader U.S. tax code, arguing that corporations should be paying more in taxes rather than workers. He referred to it as a "classic example of what’s wrong with our taxation system."

"They should be paying the taxes as opposed to having tax loopholes," Jackson said. "The people, the laborers that are working, they should not have to pay 30% of their income on taxes."

Rep. Burgess Owens, R-Utah, agreed with his colleagues that the potential 30% tax on the prize is "too much," but he used the opportunity to touch on the importance of hosting the World Cup in America. As a retired NFL player, he shared how the experience drew him to soccer, a sport he never had any interest in prior to the World Cup.

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"I have such an appreciation for soccer now," Owens told Fox News Digital. "I think it's going to be a game changer for so many of our kids. And, so, I want to congratulate the president, everyone who made this happen.

"It is what it is here, unfortunately, in our country of taxes."