Latest & Breaking News | Fox News

Lindsey Vonn turns heads at the ESPYs, the US men's team was disgustingly snubbed & Dechambeau fires back

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 16:05:06 -0400

'Nightcaps' is a daily column that catches you up on the biggest sports, news and culture stories you may have missed while pretending to do work at your desk. It runs Monday–Friday on OutKick.com.

Whew. We're on the other side of the week, boys and girls. And, as of today, we're on the other side of the month!

The ESPYs were last night. Did you know? I didn't. Imagine my surprise when I woke up this morning and found out! Remember back in the day when the ESPN-led awards show was appointment viewing? It always marked the halfway point of the summer, right?

It usually falls on the slowest sports day of the year (during non-World Cup years, of course), and bridges the gap nicely.

But this year, it came and went with little to no fanfare, which is ... fair ... given how far ESPN has fallen over the years. And buddy, they did themselves NO favors last night.

On that note, welcome to a Thursday Nightcaps — the one where ESPN snubbed the crap out of our great USA hockey teams. It's truly unfathomable. You'll see.

What else? I've got Lindsey Vonn turning heads on the red carpet, and is getting stuck in a porta-john the worst possible thing that can happen to a person in this life?

I ain't talking about getting locked inside, either. I'm talking about literally falling through the toilet and getting trapped underneath.

I've never been more disgusted. Stay tuned!

Grab you a drink — dealer's choice today! — and settle in for a Thursday 'Cap.

Is ESPN serious with this snub?

Before we start ... watch that video, if you have time. I watch the Jimmy V speech once a year around ESPYs time, and it's just the best.

True story: I took a public speaking class in college and we had to choose one speech to give at the end of the semester. I chose that one. I'm fairly certain I was terrible at it, but whatever. It's still my favorite speech of all time — and that includes Lincoln's address!

Anyway, we've gone from that moment back in 1993, to ... this moment last night at the latest edition of the ESPYs:

Lordy. The difference that 30 years can make is truly remarkable. Do you think people in 1996, who were alive and well in the 50s and 60s, saw a societal transformation quite like we have? No shot, right?

While that little performance was certainly a talker, it wasn't the real talker from the night. Nope. That took place a few hours later, when the New York Knicks were inexplicably named the Best Team.

The other finalists?

Las Vegas Aces, WNBA
Los Angeles Dodgers, MLB
Indiana Hoosiers, NCAA Football
Carolina Hurricanes, NHL
Texas Longhorns, NCAA Softball
Seattle Seahawks, NFL
Team USA Men’s Hockey
Team USA Women’s Hockey

Wanna get away?

Goodness gracious. Let me make sure I have the right ...

The USA men's and women's OLYMPIC hockey teams both won gold medals this year — with the men winning for the first time since the Miracle game — and ESPN instead gave the award for "Best Team" to the New York Knicks?

Okeedokee. Makes sense!

On top of that, they awarded OG Anunoby's tip-in in GAME 4 of the Finals "Best Play" honors over Jack Hughes' GOLDEN GOAL to win an Olympic gold medal.

You know what? I'd argue that tip-in wasn't even the second best play of the year! I'd put both the Golden Goal AND Miguel Rojas' game-tying home run in the ninth inning of GAME 7 of the World Series over it!

Yeah, I mean ... come on. What are we doing here? In what world is a game-winning, gold medal-clinching goal by the USA to win it all for the first time in four decades NOT the play of the year? It's just insane.

Oh well. ESPN has to pander to the NBA audience. It's in the rulebook, I reckon.

You know what's not in the rulebook? Falling through the toilet of a porta-john and having to be cut out:

Lindsey Vonn is back to turning heads & Bryson's Open strategy!

"Come on, get on outta there!"

"Watch your f--king self, we're gonna cut way back, get all the way down!"

"I'm not lifting, lean forward!"

"I can’t, dumbf--k"

"I’m the dumbf--k? While you’re stuck in a f--king urinal?"

Just incredible content out of Kansas City today. I've never seen anything like it. We live in amazing times right now, folk. Soak it all in. Like Jimmy V said, don't take anything for granted.

OK, let's rapid-fire this Thursday class into a big Thursday night. First up? While we were all sleeping or drinking our morning coffee, Bryson DeChambeau was playing some elite golf over at Royal Birkdale:

After just a miserable season in which he's missed every major cut, Bryson fired a 3-under 67 and sits in a tie for fifth after Day 1. This, of course, comes a day after Sir Nick Faldo lit him up like a Christmas tree.

"He has, and I'll say it to his face, zero clue of strategy," Faldo said ahead of the opening round.

Take a look:

Tell us how you really feel, Nick!

Naturally, Bryson then fired a 67 and mentioned the word "strategy" three times in his post-round interview:

Is DeChambeau BACK? No idea. We'll see if he can carry this over to tomorrow. I hope so, personally. I've given Bryson a lot of crap this season, but the game is so much better when he's in contention.

Didn't think Royal Birkdale would be the place he would turn it around, but I'm all for it. Give 'em hell, Bryson!

OK, that's it for today. Good work, everyone. Here's Jutta Leerdam and Lindsey Vonn dominating the ESPYs red carpet to take us all home.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Patriots.

Did the USA get snubbed? Email me at Zach.Dean@OutKick.com.

Bodycam shows Nantucket official slurring, swaying during DUI stop after crashing into sign: police

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:38:23 -0400

Newly released video shows a Nantucket official arrested on charges of allegedly being under the influence with alcohol in her car after she crashed into a street sign.

Bodycam video from the Yarmouth Police Department shows Nantucket, Massachusetts, town Planning Director Leslie Snell appearing to struggle when asked to perform sobriety tests. Police were responding to the April 20 incident after Snell allegedly crashed into a street sign, according to the Nantucket Current.

Snell told the officer she had "Just a couple of drinks" at Giardino's, a local restaurant, when she got out of the Jeep she was driving, according to the bodycam video.

FLORIDA SCHOOL PRINCIPALS FACE DUI CHARGES AFTER POLICE TRAFFIC STOPS JUST HOURS APART

A bottle of vodka and a box of White Claws could be seen inside the car, according to the video.

A police report states that Snell was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol and possessing an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle.

Snell reached a plea agreement on April 21 that puts the driving under the influence charge on hold for one year without a formal finding. Under the deal, she must surrender her driver's license for 45 days, complete an alcohol education course and pay $600 in fines.

GOT A TIP?

According to a police report, Yarmouth police officer Samantha Voltolini said Snell's eyes were "blood shot."

LISTEN TO THE NEW 'CRIME & JUSTICE WITH DONNA ROTUNNO' PODCAST

"I observed her to have glassy blood shot eyes," Voltolini said. "I also observed a moderate odor of alcoholic beverage emanating from the vehicle. I then went over to the driver's side to speak with her. I then observed a strong odor of alcoholic beverage emanating from her breath."

BODYCAM FOOTAGE FUELS BACKLASH AFTER POLICE HANDCUFF DYING STABBING VICTIM

Voltolini could be heard telling Snell that Giardino’s was only around 100 yards away.

GET BREAKING NEWS BY EMAIL

"I attempted to explain to (Snell) that Giardino's was only a short ways away and I was confused about how she ended up in the parking lot of the Transmission Specialists," Voltolini wrote in the report. "I asked her where she lived. She informed me Nantucket. I asked if she had a place in town she said, ‘yes.’ I asked whereabouts, but she could not inform me. (Snell) named ‘North Troy’ as the location she was attempting to go to. It was difficult to gain information from Woodson due to her speaking incoherently. I asked Woodson if she needed any medical attention, but she refused."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

During the field sobriety tests, according to the report and body camera video, Snell swayed from side to side and was unbalanced.

In a comment to The Inquirer and Mirror after being arrested, Snell said, "I deeply regret the event that occurred off-island on April 20 while I was attending to personal commitments. I accept full responsibility for my actions and the matter has been resolved."

Fox News Digital reached out to Snell for comment.

Sherrill ripped after NJ skips flag directive honoring Graham: ‘Most political governor’

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:52:12 -0400

New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill is taking heat after state flag-status records showed flags at full-staff despite a White House proclamation directing U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide in remembrance of the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., through Saturday evening.

"This is probably the most political [Trenton administration], and she's only been there six months -- probably the most political governor I've served with in the last 25 years," New Jersey state Sen. Joe Pennacchio, R-Boonton, told Fox News Digital on Thursday. He formally requested the governor lower the flags earlier this week following Graham's death.

A Trenton source confirmed that flags at the Capitol remained at full-staff as of Thursday midday. A New Jersey Department of State website tracking flag status also indicated "all flags full-staff" on Thursday.

Sherrill, whose office did not respond to multiple requests for comment, appeared to be one of a handful of Democratic state leaders to ignore the White House's proclamation – as neighboring Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro both ordered flags lowered, reportedly along with leaders of California, Colorado, Maryland,

SEN. LINDSEY GRAHAM DEAD AT 71 AFTER 'BRIEF AND SUDDEN' ILLNESS, OFFICE SAYS

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger did not appear to issue half-staff orders either – as each state's official flag status remained "full-staff" as of Thursday. Fox News Digital reached out to both governors for comment.

Pennacchio told Fox News Digital that after inaction from Sherrill on lowering the flags, he crafted a formal request.

Pennacchio said that honoring people like Graham should be nonpartisan – because Graham was a respected public figure as well as a decades-long U.S. Air Force veteran and someone who also exuded a bipartisan nature particularly on key votes like confirmations of Supreme Court Justices Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor.

"My request was very respectful. It wasn't partisan at all," he said, noting that Sherrill is also a veteran.

Pennacchio said Graham himself would speak about the importance of putting politics aside in important moments like this, recounting that the South Carolinian defended his aisle-crossing confirmation votes by saying his advise-and-consent role was to consider whether a nominee is qualified regardless of party.

KAGAN RECALLS LINDSEY GRAHAM'S VOTE THAT HELPED SEAL HER SUPREME COURT CONFIRMATION

When Sherrill was in Congress she represented Pennacchio’s state Senate district. He told Fox News Digital that he had hope for bipartisanship with Sherrill because the two offices worked very well together on intergovernmental constituent services.

Sherrill’s decision not to lower flags also ran counter to one of New Jersey’s other most prominent Democrats, Sen. Cory Booker, who recorded a video honoring Graham.

In his video, Booker spoke of how – as a freshman senator – he was told by Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill., that Graham would be a good bipartisan colleague to work with on criminal justice reform.

Booker recounted walking up to Graham and breaching the topic, as Graham jokingly admonished him that he was in a South Carolina primary with a "bat—t crazy" opponent and that he can't even be seen with Democrats.

Graham said Booker should come back to him after the election – and he did.

"True to his word, [Graham] rolled up his sleeves and he went to work," Booker said, adding that their collaboration ended in the passage of the First Step Act.

Booker did not respond to a request for comment on this story, but Pennacchio said he appreciated the Democrat’s gesture.

"Senator Booker is as partisan as they come, but he did the right thing and put his partisanship aside," Pennacchio said. "The death of one diminishes a little bit of all of us."

Another New Jersey figure who did speak out after Graham’s passing was Rep. Christopher Smith, a Republican representing the Jersey Shore and the Garden State's longest-serving congressman.

MAJORITY LEADER THUNE: LINDSEY GRAHAM WAS THE GOP’S GLUE, BINDING US TOGETHER WITH COURAGE AND GRACE

"Lindsey Graham was an indefatigable and courageous fighter for the right to life, human rights, liberty and freedom," Smith said earlier this week.

"He was articulate and persuasive and brought both incisive candor and humor to debate. He was a national treasure and will be deeply missed. My wife, Marie, and I offer our deepest condolences to his family."

SIGN UP TO GET THE POLITICS NEWSLETTER

Fox News Digital also reached out to Booker’s counterpart, Sen. Andy Kim, D-N.J., for comment on the situation.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"Our nation has long understood that when a public servant passes away after a lifetime of service to the American people, we come together and honor them with dignity and respect. New Jersey should not be the exception," Pennacchio said.

Amazon college essentials under $25 every student needs

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:01:54 -0400

Getting ready for college doesn't have to be expensive. We've found Amazon dorm essentials under $25, including bedding, bathroom supplies and laundry must-haves. Top picks include a mesh shower caddy for 47% off and wireless earbuds for just $15.

Trending college deals under $25

Pilot G2 refillable pens, 4-pack: $4.99 (57% off)
Portable Bluetooth speaker: $14.97 (40% off)
Five Star pencil pouch: $3.70 (31% off)
Drawstring backpack: $13.28 (30% off)
Extra large moving bags, 6-pack: $22.94 (21% off)

Mesh shower caddy: $8.54 (47% off)

Original price: $15.99

A mesh shower caddy is a dorm room essential for shared bathrooms. This one features multiple compartments for toiletries, while the quick-drying mesh fabric prevents moisture from building up between showers.

Bluetooth earbuds: $12.99 (75% off)

Original price: $51.96

These wireless earbuds are 75% off — an affordable companion for workouts and study sessions. They deliver up to 30 hours of playtime, weigh just 0.1 ounces and take up minimal space in a backpack.

Bed pillows, set of 2: $19.99

Upgrade an uncomfortable dorm bed with this two-pack of hotel-style pillows for just $20. The plush, cooling fill supports back, side and stomach sleepers for a more comfortable night's sleep.

Outlet extender: $9.98 (23% off)

Original price: $12.96

Dorm rooms never seem to have enough outlets. This wall charger expands a single outlet into multiple AC plugs and USB ports, allowing you to charge a phone, laptop, tablet and more from one convenient spot.

Storage bags, 6-pack: $15.71 (37% off)

Original price: $24.99

Make the most of limited storage with this six-pack of storage bags. Each one fits bulky sweaters, shoes and other essentials under a lofted bed, then folds flat when it's time to move out.

Adjustable bed risers: $19.99 (31% off)

Original price: $28.99

Maximize under-bed storage with these adjustable bed risers. They add extra height to your bed, creating space for everything from clothes and shoes to storage bins and even a mini fridge.

Command strips: $21.99

Decorate your dorm without damaging the walls with this 28-pack of Command strips. Four large pairs hold 15 pounds, making it easy to hang posters, photos, frames, hooks and more without leaving behind sticky residue or marks.

Mattress protector: $9.99 (26% off)

Original price: $13.49

Dorm mattresses get years of use, making this $10 waterproof mattress protector a smart buy. It helps guard against spills and allergens and fits standard twin XL dorm mattresses.

Clip-on mini fan: $14.99

Stay cool while sleeping or studying with this clip-on fan. Attach it to a headboard or desk for a steady breeze without taking up valuable space, and adjust the airflow without bothering your roommate.

Reading light: $15.99

Read or study after lights-out without disturbing your roommate with this compact clip-on reading light. Three brightness levels let you customize the lighting, while the sturdy clip stays securely attached to books, notebooks or a headboard.

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

Slim laundry basket: $15.99 (27% off)

Original price: $21.99

This slim laundry basket fits neatly beside a bed or desk to save valuable floor space. Despite its narrow 9.8-inch width, it still holds a full load of laundry, while side handles make trips to the shared laundry room easier.

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.

Mamdani ripped over 'freak show' press conference where eviction was declared a form of 'violence'

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:39:07 -0400

New York City socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani is facing criticism online over a press conference where a local housing advocate claimed evictions are a form of "violence" as the mayor stood behind her.

"Our city is turning the corner on tenant power. When we organize, we win results. The Mamdani administration is emboldening us so we no longer tolerate the violence of evictions as a matter of business as usual," Antonia Marrero, a member of the Housing Organizers for People Empowerment (HOPE) Tenant Union, said during a press conference on Thursday.

Mamdani, who has faced heavy criticism over the past year for his housing policies, was quickly blasted by conservatives and political commentators in general on social media over the comment.

"This looks like a scene out of a Batman movie," Heritage Foundation senior fellow Mike Gonzalez posted on X.

MAMDANI SPARKS FIERCE BACKLASH FOR WORLD CUP STUNT 'PALLING AROUND' WITH RIKERS ISLAND CONVICTS

"Theater of the absurd," Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis posted on X.

"Look at Mamdani's face in the back," the conservative influencer account End Wokeness posted on X, referencing Mamdani’s grin as the woman was speaking.

"Impossible to describe how much damage Fauci and the CDC lying to everyone about the efficacy of masks caused," Outkick writer Ian Miller posted on X. "Even Mamdani had to dial up the fake smile to 11 to hide how ridiculous this all is."

"Is theft from the property owner violence?" investor Rick Rule posted on X.

"This is the game Mamdani is playing," Red State writer Bonchie posted on X. "He ‘freezes’ rent, which means some landlords can’t afford to do repairs or keep renters, and then people get evicted. Then he weaponizes that anger in his favor. The end goal is confiscation. Manipulative and sick."

SOCIAL MEDIA ERUPTS AFTER MAMDANI'S FAR-LEFT SUPPORTERS TURN ON HIM OVER HOMELESS SHELTER: 'OOPS'

"The mole people are taking over," The Breckinridge County Republican Party in Kansas posted on X.

"The grinning Mamdani in the background makes it all look like some creepy scene in a horror movie," conservative radio host Mike Gallagher posted on X.

"How is this real," conservative commentator Graham Allen posted on X.

"I always wondered how the pigeon lady from Home Alone 2 came out of the pandemic," GOP strategist Matt Whitlock posted on X.

"Freak show," Neighbors Together Oakland founder Seneca Scott posted on X.

"Mamdani is just trolling at this point," political commentator Link Lauren posted on X. "He wants press and attention. The outrage fuels him. Even he’s laughing in the back."

Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani's office and the parent organization of HOPE for comment.

Thursday's event highlighted Mamdani releasing a "Rental Ripoff Report," which makes the case that residents in the nation's largest city are paying too much rent while not receiving enough in return and offering up 23 proposals to remedy that issue.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"At Rental Ripoff Hearings across the five boroughs, we heard from thousands of New Yorkers living with mold that was never treated, pests that were never addressed and fees that were never explained. Listening was only the first step," Mamdani said in a press release. "This report turns those stories into concrete action. From requiring disclosure of AI-altered listings to bringing our code enforcement systems into the 21st century and finally recognizing tenant unions, we are making it clear that every New Yorker deserves a safe home – and every landlord who refuses to provide one will be held accountable."

Earlier this week, Mamdani faced renewed criticism over housing affordability as rents in Manhattan and Brooklyn hit record highs, with conservative commentators arguing that immigration-driven demand is adding pressure to an already tight rental market that the mayor campaigned to ease.

Mamdani campaigned on addressing New York City’s housing crisis by freezing increases for rent-stabilized tenants, building 200,000 new affordable homes and expanding tenant protections. Since taking office, he has successfully frozen rents on rent-stabilized leases, released a housing plan aimed at building and preserving 400,000 affordable homes and moved to expand rental vouchers.

Critics argue that rent freezes will lead to increased prices for everyone else and disincentivize property owners from doing more than the bare minimum to maintain units that they aren’t being paid market rate to rent.

Fox News Digital's Robert Schmad contributed to this report.

'Woke' military academies targeted in new blueprint for sweeping warfighting overhaul

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:39:01 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: A conservative organization is calling for a sweeping overhaul of America's service academies and war colleges, arguing the institutions have drifted too far toward civilian academia and urging Congress to permanently enshrine the Trump administration's military education reforms into law.

The 12-page blueprint, obtained by Fox News Digital, was drafted by Restoration of America, a conservative advocacy organization that promotes right-leaning public policy proposals and political engagement, and proposes reshaping admissions, curriculum, faculty and governance around a single objective: preparing officers to "win the nation's wars" by returning military education to what its authors describe as a warfighting-first mission.

"The expectation is that they're generating warfighters, not philosophers and future bureaucrats," Restoration of America founder Doug Truax, a West Point graduate, told Fox News Digital. "We pay a lot for these academies... and the expectation is that they're generating warfighters."

COAST GUARD ENDING RACE-BASED ADMISSIONS FOR OFFICER COMMISSIONING PROGRAM UNDER TRUMP DEI CRACKDOWN

A Pentagon review already has led to changes at the academies. West Point disbanded a dozen cadet clubs centered on race, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation to comply with the administration's anti-diversity, equity and inclusion directives.

During a March 26, 2025, Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, the service academy superintendents testified that West Point had eliminated two elective courses — "Race, Ethnicity and Nation" and "Power and Difference" — while the Naval Academy canceled two courses, "Gender Matters" and "Gender Sexuality Studies," and modified 18 others as part of a Pentagon-directed review of diversity-related curriculum.

But Truax argues those changes should not end with executive action.

"We have to take our opportunity when we have power to put this into law," Truax said. "Otherwise, we'll look back and be like, well, we had that one little moment where it was getting better, but now we're right back where we were."

SENATE DEMS DRAW RARE LINE AGAINST MUST-PASS PENTAGON BILL

Truax said the foundation is sharing the blueprint with lawmakers and administration officials in hopes Congress ultimately will codify many of the recommendations through legislation. He said executive orders can be reversed by future administrations, making statutory changes the only way to ensure the reforms endure.

The blueprint is organized around four pillars — admissions, curriculum, faculty and governance — and proposes some of the most sweeping changes to military education advanced by conservatives since President Donald Trump returned to office.

Among its recommendations, the paper calls for permanently banning consideration of race, ethnicity and sex in admissions decisions, requiring at least 75% of coursework to focus directly on military competencies and warfighting, replacing most civilian professors with active-duty or retired military officers and abolishing tenure at military educational institutions.

LIBERAL FACULTY STILL HUGELY OUTNUMBER CONSERVATIVES IN HIGHER EDUCATION: REPORT

It also recommends ending academy participation in the Rhodes Scholarship program, arguing the military's top young officers should spend their formative years leading troops rather than pursuing prestigious overseas academic fellowships, along with eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion offices and restructuring academy oversight boards.

Truax argued the nation's military academies gradually adopted the culture and priorities of civilian universities during the Obama and Biden administrations, shifting attention away from preparing officers for combat.

Critics of similar proposals argue senior military education exists to prepare future generals and admirals for strategic leadership rather than tactical command.

In a March essay published by War on the Rocks, retired Army officer Bradford Duplessis argued "the cult of lethality approach, characterized by its focus on tactical warfighting at the expense of strategic study, will not produce senior military leaders with the necessary skills and attributes to effectively lead in today’s complex environment."

"The removal of civilian faculty from the war colleges would result in brain drain in vital areas where military officers possess little to no experience or education," he wrote.

Duplessis argued senior officers "must understand the responsibilities of their future bosses" and said strategic leadership requires an understanding of diplomacy, politics and other instruments of national power in addition to military force.

Truax rejected that argument, saying he believes the officer corps has spent too much time learning to think like "politicians, State Department employees and military contractors" instead of warriors — a theme echoed throughout the blueprint.

While Truax praised Hegseth for taking what he called "a number of steps in the right direction," he argued executive action alone is insufficient.

"There's been a number of steps in the right direction," Truax said. "However, here's the main problem. A lot of this has been done by executive order."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"Woke did not go anywhere," he added. "It's just in hiding right now."

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Department of War and all three military service academies for comment.

Former French tennis player's plan to appeal a match-fixing suspension backfires on him

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:38:31 -0400

A former French tennis player has seen his ban for match fixing bumped up to three years after his attempt at appealing the initial penalty backfired.

Samuel Bensoussan, a 34-year-old from France, was initially suspended for one year and 11 months after he was found to have fixed four matches.

The Frenchman's actions were tied to a wide-ranging match-fixing syndicate set up in Belgium by a man named Grigor Sargsyan.

EX-FORDHAM BASKETBALL PLAYERS PERMANENTLY BANNED BY NCAA OVER ALLEGED GAME MANIPULATION BETTING SCHEME

According to The Athletic, citing documents from the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA), this syndicate was involved in fixing a stunning 375 matches at a minimum, and involved 1,500 conspirators.

However, Bensoussan, whose suspension started in May of 2025, opted to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Of the 18 breaches of the Tennis Anti-Corruption Protocol Bensoussan was charged with, all but one were proven. However, in his appeal, he alleged that he had been pulled into the situations due to false accusations from former tennis player Mick Lescure.

Lescure was handed a lifetime ban in 2022 for, you guessed it, match fixing.

Bensoussan — who has turned to coaching and previously hit a singles career high-water mark of No. 405 back in 2018 — wasn't the only party appealing the decision. ITIA was appealing it as well, saying that he should actually have his suspension increased to be more in line with those given to others, and requested that it be upped to six and a half years.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST SPORTS NEWS

The CAS dismissed Bensoussan's appeal, and as if that wasn't bad enough for him, the court decided that he should have his suspension increased, though it stopped short of going with the six and a half years the ITIA was looking for.

TENNIS PLAYER DANIEL ALTMAIER PUNTS RACKET INTO CROWD, SHOCKINGLY AVOIDS DISQUALIFICATION

Bensoussan's ban is now three years, and begins on the same date as his previous one, meaning it will end in May of 2028.

Schumer dodges questions after bombshell report alleges Dem senator had relationships with House staffers

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:34:01 -0400

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., declined to weigh in on the latest scandal to hit a member of his party, instead focusing on his planned diatribe against President Donald Trump’s prime-time address Thursday.

The New York Post reported that Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., engaged in sexual relationships with at least two Democratic House staffers who did not work for him while he was a member of the House. According to House rules, members are not barred from having relationships with staffers who work outside their office.

Sources told the outlet that it was believed the relationships happened while the lawmaker was unmarried.

ETHICS PANEL CLEARS GALLEGO AS LUNA DECLARES, 'ONCE A CREEP, ALWAYS A CREEP'

When asked to weigh in on the latest scandal involving Gallego, Schumer tapped his planned speech railing against Trump’s scheduled address on foreign interference in the 2020 election Thursday night, and told Fox News Digital, "I’m not — I’m focused on this right now."

It’s the latest bad headline to hit Gallego, who has been in the conversation for a 2028 presidential bid. The Post reported that Gallego admitted to the two relationships, which were both with aides to Texas Democrats.

When asked by reporters about the allegations, Gallego said, "I’m not going to engage in gossip."

'DISTURBING' ALLEGATIONS AGAINST UNNAMED SENATOR UNDER REVIEW IN WAKE OF SCANDALS ROCKING CONGRESS

Gallego's office did not immediately return a request for comment.

The report comes as Gallego has come under scrutiny for his relationship with former Rep. Eric Swalwell, who resigned from the House earlier this year after being accused by several women of sexual assault, rape and harassment.

Swalwell has vehemently denied the allegations.

Gallego moved to quickly put distance between himself and Swalwell and argued that his tight-knit relationship "clouded my judgment," regarding rumors that swirled about the ex-lawmaker for years in Washington, D.C.

He also reportedly hired former President Joe Biden’s former deputy press secretary to handle crisis communications in the ensuing fallout from Swalwell and a now-dismissed Senate Ethics probe.

SENATOR GALLEGO SAYS LONGTIME FRIENDSHIP WITH SWALWELL 'CLOUDED MY JUDGMENT' AS RUMORS SWIRLED IN DC

That probe, which centered on a complaint from Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., that alleged Gallego committed sexual misconduct and campaign finance violations, was tossed out by the Senate Ethics Committee last month.

Gallego said in a statement at the time that the Ethics Committee’s decision "reaffirms what I have said about these accusations from the beginning: they were right-wing conspiracies peddled by far-right activists like Anna Paulina Luna, the White House and their allies."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Luna quickly weighed in on the latest allegation, charging on X, "‘Conspiracy theories,’ right, [Sen. Ruben Gallego]?"

"Time to resign. Glad people are going on record about this creep," she said.

WNBA postpones game between Wings and Liberty due to mechanical issues with plane

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:29:31 -0400

Planes, trains and automobiles, none of which were capable of getting the New York Liberty to Texas on time.

The Liberty were scheduled to play the Dallas Wings at 9 p.m. ET on Thursday, but the game was postponed. The WNBA said the game was postponed due to travel delays caused by mechanical issues with the Liberty's charter flight.

The game is being rescheduled for Monday, July 20, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET, and the WNBA said the Wings will honor all tickets purchased for the original game.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Liberty player Pauline Astier aired out her frustrations about the plane to her Instagram Story on Wednesday night.

"10h après toujours sur le tamarac," she wrote, which translates to, "10 hours later, still on the tarmac."

According to the New York Post, the Liberty switched planes once before eventually deplaning around 12:30 a.m. ET.

ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW!

New York City dealt with thunderstorms throughout Wednesday afternoon. With the travel delays, the Liberty canceled their shootaround on Thursday.

The Liberty are fourth in the Eastern Conference at 13-11. However, they have struggled of late, having lost seven of their last 10 games, including each of their last three.

With the schedule change due to the plane issues, the Liberty will be playing three games in a span of five days in three different cities. They play the Indiana Fever on Saturday on the road, the Wings on the road on Monday, and the Chicago Sky back in New York on Wednesday.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The Wings are 16-8 on the season and have won five straight. The schedule change for them means they are playing three games in a span of four days.

The Wings play the Los Angeles Sparks at home on Sunday before hosting the Liberty on Monday. They then travel to play the Portland Fire on Wednesday.

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

'TODAY' show intruder identified after allegedly breaching security near Craig Melvin

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:44:00 -0400

A man was detained on Thursday after allegedly slipping past security at NBC’s Today show studios in New York while looking for Al Roker, TMZ reported.

TODAY.com reports that the person who was detained "has been identified as Andrew Truelove, who has several pending cases and a criminal history.

After failing to find Roker, he reportedly lunged at co-host Craig Melvin and shouted a racial slur before security detained him.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

No one was injured, and the hosts returned to the air shortly afterward.

NANCY GUTHRIE LIKELY TARGETED BY LOCAL WORKER WHO ASSUMED FAMILY WAS WEALTHY, SAYS VETERAN INVESTIGATOR

NYPD confirmed to Fox News Digital:

"On Thursday, July 16, 2026, at approximately 0919 hours, it was reported to officers that there was a disorderly person inside 30 Rockefeller Center, within the confines of the Midtown North Precinct. Officers responded and placed an unidentified individual into custody. There were no injuries reported. The investigation remains ongoing."

JUDGE ORDERS NANCY GUTHRIE RANSOM IMPOSTER INTO INPATIENT TREATMENT BEFORE SENTENCING

Additionally, Savannah Guthrie shared on the TODAY show she will be off the show for a few weeks while she is filming a new Wordle game show.

SCAMMERS EXPLOIT NANCY GUTHRIE CASE WITH QR CODE MONEY REQUESTS, PIMA COUNTY SHERIFF WARNS

"I’m headed over to shoot ‘Wordle’ over the next few weeks," Savannah said on TODAY July 16. "We’re going to shoot the whole season, and we’re super excited. Cannot wait for everyone to see it."

In a statement sent to Fox News Digital, NBC News' TODAY said:

"There was a security incident this morning at the TODAY show studio. An individual entered an unauthorized area in a vestibule near Studio 1A. The person approached anchor Craig Melvin, who alerted security. The individual was detained and taken into custody by law enforcement without further incident. There was no altercation, and no one was injured. TODAY is cooperating fully with law enforcement as they investigate the matter. NBC and TODAY take the safety and security of our employees, talent, staff and guests extremely seriously. We are reviewing the incident and our security protocols and remain committed to providing a safe and secure environment for everyone who works at and visits our studios."

LIKE WHAT YOU'RE READING? FIND MORE ON THE TRUE CRIME HUB

Travel basketball parents cry foul as Ohio tournament admission price hits a shocking new high

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:23:18 -0400

AAU basketball parents who are used to paying exorbitant fees to watch their kids play in tournaments got a surprise over the weekend in Ohio. The game has officially changed.

Basketball dad Kevin Brandt of Leipsic, OH, is used to paying admission prices that are more than attending NBA games. He's not naive to the big business of AAU basketball, or what he and his wife signed up for. Their daughter is playing on one of the top travel teams in the Midwest.

But, what he experienced at the Spooky Nook complex in Hamilton left him scratching his head.

JOSH HART CALLS FINALS TICKET PRICES AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN 'RIDICULOUS' AS FANS PRICED OUT BEFORE GAME 3

"Just got home from watching my daughter play in AAU Tournament, Select Showcase. $260 for my wife and I to watch her play this weekend. $260 to get in. Someone HAS to feel a little guilty about this, don’t they?!" Brandt wrote of his family's weekend experience at Spooky Nook.

Wasn't there a weekend pass? Typically, these tournaments will offer a $70-$90 all-you-can-attend pass. Brandt says that was not the case in Hamilton.

The family was told that it would have to pay admission prices for two different tournaments being held at the same complex. One tournament was called the Select Events Super Showcase. That was followed by another Select Events tournament called the Midwest Summer Classic.

Same location. Same tournament organizer.

"They told us it was (two) 'separate' events. Paid $120 for each event. Then $5 a day for parking," Brandt explained.

"We stayed one night but drove two and half hours back and forth every other day because every hotel was $300+ around the area. One of our sons and his girlfriend came for one day… so add $60!"

OutKick reached out to Spooky Nook senior management in an attempt to clarify who is setting admission prices and parking fees, or if the company suggests pricing levels for events at its facilities. We have not heard back.

Where is this all going? That is the prevailing concern among AAU parents.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST SPORTS NEWS

AAU travel mom Mookie Edmond knows exactly what Brandt and others are feeling. She documented her family's weekend trip to a tournament in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Unlike the Ohio tournament, this one offered a weekend pass for the low, low cost of $90. Edmond isn't looking for your sympathy. "At the end of the day, we are going to invest in our child," she said on a Facebook video where she addressed the costs to play at the highest level of AAU.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"We're going to do whatever we have to do to get him to that next level," she added.

However, after dropping just shy of $1,500 on hotels, admission, gas, food and extracurriculars, Edmond is left with scar tissue. "I’m over here scratching my head like do I really wanna run it back this weekend," she told her friends on Facebook.

Married officer off force after her on-duty affair exposed, woman slept with future son-in-law & three loves

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:20:56 -0400

Buckle up, or strap in, or whatever you normally do each Thursday because we have a roller-coaster of True Romance this week.

Carmen Electra is handing out threesome advice, a married cop is off the force after an on-duty affair with another officer, a bizarre story of a woman sleeping with her future son-in-law requires an investigation of its own.

It's a full slate. We have another song this week, which, with your help, could become part of what we do around here.

ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON'T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW!

First up, and before we start getting too deep into it, is Carmen Electra. She made her return to Playboy after 30 years as an advisor and was asked various questions, one of which happened to be from a guy in his early 50s with 28 years of marriage under his belt.

The kids are out of the house and now is the time to ask his wife for a threesome. The problem is he doesn’t know how to ask.

Here's Carmen's answer: "That’s a tricky question. I mean, has your wife ever kissed another woman? Do you see her flirting with women? Is she comfortable around other women?"

She continued, "If she is, then maybe you could kind of ask her, but if you do decide to ask her, I would do it like this: 'You’re my queen, and everything you say goes in the bedroom, so if we bring someone else into the picture, we’re going to be all about you.' Because you don’t want your wife to ever feel like you’re more into the other person—that’s going to be a disaster, so you’ve got to make her the queen of it. You guys have to pleasure her and make her feel like it’s all about her, and then she’ll be cool with it."

Best of luck to him as he works up the nerve to use Carmen Electra's advice. Let's get into the rest of the romance this week.

Go follow True Romance on Twitter and Facebook. Send your emails here: sean.joseph@outkick.com (anonymously if you prefer).

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK CULTURE COVERAGE

Married Nashville officer off the force after her on-duty affair with 18-year veteran officer exposed

Almost four years ago now, officer Lisa Vidrios and her husband were making headlines for being the first married couple to graduate together from the Metro Police Academy.

It was at that time, she said, while representing the graduating class, "I came here to Nashville with my family, and my husband included, who is also now a member of the Metro Police Department with me. We have three children together — ages 6, 4, and 1 years old — and we love spending time as a family and doing everything we can throughout the city of Nashville."

Fast-forward to this week and Lisa Vidrios is making headlines for resigning from the Metro Nashville Police Department force after she admitted to "serious departmental violations, including conduct unbecoming an officer," reports WKRN.

This reported admission comes as the result of an investigation into "inappropriate sexual activity while on duty." An added element to the story is the fact that these unapproved activities weren't with her husband.

According to an investigative summary from the Office of Professional Accountability, a complaint was submitted against Vidrios and an unnamed 18-year veteran officer back on May 26, 2025.

The two, according to the investigative report, had sex on duty in a MNPD vehicle and in the middle school where Vidrios was a school resource officer.

This affair, reports WKRN, began between the 37-year-old married mom and the veteran officer of almost two decades in May 2025. The two reportedly had multiple sexual encounters during this time.

Some of them were recorded, and the report states that Vidrios' phone contains video of the two having sex in her school resource officer's office at the middle school.

Staff can be heard talking outside the door and Vidrios admitted in a written statement that "kids were inside the building during this time."

There was also video, according to the OPA's report, of the two having sex in the male officer's police vehicle, which Vidrios said happened twice.

FORMER PRISON GUARD WHO HAD SEX TAPE WITH INMATE GO VIRAL IS FILLED WITH REGRET & NOW FOCUSING ON BEING A MOM

The Office of Professional Accountability hasn't been able to interview the 18-year veteran of the force because he filed for an injury-on-duty pension that was approved earlier this year and prevented an interview from taking place.

As for Vidrios, she agreed to a settlement for the violations of MNPD policy. She served a 30-day suspension then resigned from the force.

This just goes to show you how quickly you can be led down a much different path when you let romance lead the way. It's a classic tale of the heart overpowering the mind and better judgment.

This isn’t the first time this has taken an officer in uniform off course, and it won't be the last. Nobody planned for one half of the first married couple to graduate from the academy together to end up off the force in less than five years due to an affair.

It played out that way anyway. Sometimes all you can do is wish them luck. I have a feeling she'll be just fine.

This Week In True Romance

Follow True Romance on Twitter and Facebook.

Woman had a 'hot romp' with her future son-in-law

After we somehow managed to stick the landing on the officer affair, we're going to attempt to do so again with a woman who says she slept with her future son-in-law. I'm not making any guarantees that we'll pull it off.

This one is admittedly a touch on the more bizarre side. She's a married 55-year-old mom who has embraced the swinging lifestyle for the last 15 years. Neither Amanda's husband nor her daughter had an issue with this "hot romp," as the Daily Star so eloquently referred to it as.

"The idea was his," she said of the hot romp with her future son-in-law. "We all have fantasies and part of the lifestyle is experiencing those. The situation made the sex even hotter."

What did her daughter think of the entire thing? According to Amanda, she was on board with it. Why wouldn't she be?

She said, "Everything in the lifestyle is about consent, so she (his partner) was completely on board and enjoyed the outcome."

Sure she was. If you can't have a hot romp with mom, are you really the one? Most people skip this part and maybe that's why the divorce rate is so high.

Who am I to say? I'm not an expert on the matter. I'll leave that up to others to decide. What I do know is there's no chance he doesn't become her son-in-law now. The real question is, can he make it last with the daughter?

OUTKICK IS NOW ON THE FOX APP: CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

What are some subtle signs that your married boss might be secretly involved with a coworker?

We've got another song to get to this week, so I'm not going to go into a big introduction about the married boss hooking up with your coworker here.

Here are some stories and what to look for in your own workplace. Step one: take your head out of the sand. Take it away Reddit:

Completely unwarranted promotion paired with sudden need to have accompany them on business trips. It gets pretty obvious.
We once got a request from a middle manager for a lock on his office door. He said it was for protection of sensitive info in his office, but we all heard the gossip about him getting caught in the desk doing something nasty to a female coworker.
Reminds me of my old CFO. Exclusively hired women in their 20s, only went to happy hour when it was "his turn" (our C level execs rotated on going and buying the first round), dropped hints about being in an open relationship. If it was "his turn" his whole team was there, if it wasn't he took only them to a different spot and paid for everything himself. I've never seen a CFO share the same dinner and even fork with an employee before. Ended when I and a dozen others were pulled into the CEO's office where several lawyers were waiting to interview us. From what I heard his severance clause was voided and they clawed back his equity grants (private company so he couldn't have sold them).
A woman was hired at my job as a secretary. After 2 months of working there, my coworkers and I noticed she began going to lunch with our married boss. It started off as once or twice a week, and overtime became every single day, sometimes for 2-4 hours. They would also just leave work early and not come back. From there, it was obvious that he was cheating on his wife. It became even more obvious when his wife started showing up to the office because she suspected something was going on. I quit that job, but I later found out that my boss got fired for having the affair when his wife had a meltdown at the office and tried to fight the secretary.
The new department supervisor is Becky. Becky is 19 years old, no experience, no education, but spends an hour a day in the boss's office with the door locked.
If the coworker randomly knows certain personal things about the boss. For example, in a job I used to work at, the coworker randomly knew the boss's size of shirt that he wore.
I know a few people at my current and past work places who had affairs. If you observe, it is usually that they are ok being in each others space e.g. oh you want me to show you this thing on the computer? Imma lean close to show you and you aren’t going to try to move away…
I remember having a boss and coworker who would always hang out. I didn't think anything of it because they said they were just friends, then several years later I found out they got married (after the business closed down). I would say the warning were the rumors at work and the fact they were always around each other in a happy mood.
My boss was in a relationship with a guy called mark. She always give him paid leave, they often go to "business dinners" and "conviniently" goes to the same gym. I have an 11 years experience working for that company, he has 2. Guess who got promoted?
Two of my bosses attempted to have an affair with me, TWO! They singled me out, treated me differently, spent copious amounts of time talking to me, visited my desk more often than other employees’. One is the president of the company, but the GM just got fired last week because he attempted to bang me. Oh, and they also kept me around longer when I had to go to their offices.
When she broke up with me because she was banging her married boss? Called off our engagement out of the blue. We had been together several years and were planning our wedding. Found out a few months later she was seeing her boss that had very recently separated from his wife. Didn't take more than 3 brain cells for me to connect all those dots.
I worked on a pretty well known tv show, and it was suspected that two of the cast members were hooking up, even though one of them was married. At the reunion when everyone met on stage, they were the only two that DIDNT hug. I knew right then it was true.

Three Loves Theory

- Deep in the Heart of Texas writes:

Sean,

With last week’s column that ended with the "logical choice" discussion and follow up this week by MP from Staunton, Virginia with that Huey Lewis "Stuck with You" video . . .

I recommend considering the "Three Loves Theory" which is summed up well by Google AI:

The three people you date, according to this framework, serve the following purposes:

1. The Idealistic Love (Fairy Tale)

What it is: Often our first love, frequently occurring in high school or early adulthood.
The Purpose: It appeals to the societal and family ideals of what love is "supposed" to look like. It is often highly romanticized, but it can require you to compromise your own personal truths to make it work.

2. The Hard Love (The Lesson)

What it is: The tumultuous, sometimes painful relationship that teaches you hard lessons about yourself and what you truly need.
The Purpose: This relationship challenges you. It often involves heartbreak, miscommunications, or toxicity, and serves as a reality check that shatters your childhood fantasies about relationships. It is meant to make you reevaluate your standards.

3. The Grounded Love (The Unexpected One)

What it is: An effortless, profound connection that often shatters your preconceived notions of what love should be.
The Purpose: People describe this as feeling like "coming home," offers complete acceptance, and usually comes when you least expect it.

I would summarize the three as "Passion, Pain, and Peace".

Do our OutKick friends agree? Can you remember the three that fall into these categories? Did you marry the right one?

Another song along the same logical choice lines, "Escape" (The Pina Colada Song) by Rupert Holmes

SeanJo

Someone gets what we're doing here every week. Thanks for sending this my way. Is there a chance that you can experience all three with the same person?

Also, I'm starting to get into the idea of a weekly song. Including one with your email was a nice touch.

-------------

That's all I have this week. Feel free to reach out, anonymously if you prefer, at sean.joseph@outkick.com. Send me whatever you want, including a song for next week.

Claude Lemieux 'acknowledged' relapse after 12 years sober to concerned family hours before death: report

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:19:16 -0400

This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Claude Lemieux allegedly admitted to relapsing after 12 years of sobriety the night before he died by suicide, according to an incident report obtained by TMZ Sports.

The report stated that Lemieux's family had noticed a change in his behavior over the past year, leaving his wife, Deborah, to confront him.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

After he allegedly "acknowledged" that he had relapsed, Deborah told him to leave the home at 10:30 p.m. ET, according to the outlet. He then was found hanging in the family's furniture store roughly five hours later by his son, Brendan.

Deborah had called Brendan after confronting her husband, and Brendan came to the residence to discuss how they could support Lemieux. Brendan then checked his father's location and saw he was at the business - he then drove there, spotted his father's Ford truck in the parking lot and removed a firearm he knew Claude kept in the glove box due to the "emotional aspect of the situation."

The report also said a message was found on Lemieux's phone.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office but did not immediately hear back.

Lemieux broke into the league with the Montreal Canadiens and was part of their Stanley Cup-winning team in 1986.

SHARKS STAR MACKLIN CELEBRINI JUST MADE AN IMPRESSIVE BIT OF NHL AND VIDEO GAME HISTORY

He won four Stanley Cups in his career and in 1995 and 1996 became the 10th player in NHL history to win back-to-back Stanley Cups with different teams, first with the New Jersey Devils and then with the Colorado Avalanche.

After the 1995 Stanley Cup Final, Lemieux was also awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy. In his postseason career, Lemieux had 158 points (80G, 78A) in 234 games played.

Lemieux last played in the NHL with the San Jose Sharks and retired in 2009.

In all, he appeared in 1,215 NHL games for the Montreal Canadiens, New Jersey Devils, Colorado Avalanche, Phoenix Coyotes, Dallas Stars and San Jose Sharks.

He went on to become a player agent and, according to North State Journal, represented Carolina Hurricanes goalie Frederik Andersen.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Lemieux's death came just days after he made an appearance at the Eastern Conference Finals between the Hurricanes and Canadiens. Andersen was between the pipes for the Hurricanes, while Lemieux carried the ceremonial torch into the arena for the Canadiens ahead of Game 3.

OutKick's Matt Reigle and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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

15 security essentials to keep your valuables safe for summer travel

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:50:39 -0400

With summer travel in full swing, now is a great time to add a few extra layers of protection before your next trip. From luggage trackers and portable lock boxes to other travel security essentials, these gadgets can help safeguard both you and your belongings. Better yet, many are currently discounted by up to 64%.

Latest deals

Anti-theft travel backpack: $19.79 (42% off)
Personal alarm keychain: $19.99 (33% off)
Door stop alarm, 2-pack: $9.99 (29% off)
Money belt: $9.98 (23% off)
Waterproof phone pouch: $7.99 (20% off)
RFID-blocking leather wallet: $15.99 (20% off)

Smart luggage tag: $29.99

Keep tabs on your luggage by attaching a smart luggage tag before your trip. This Amazon option works with Apple's Find My network, making it easy to track your suitcase from your iPhone. If you're looking for more features, the Knog Scout travel tag is currently 50% off and adds a unique QR code that anyone who finds your bag can scan to contact you directly.

Bluetooth tracker tags, 4-pack: $35.99 (64% off)

Original price: $99.99

Tracker tags are a simple way to keep tabs on luggage, keys and other frequently misplaced belongings. Pair one with your iPhone or Android device, then use Apple's Find My or Google's Find Hub to locate it. If an item goes missing, Lost Mode can notify you when the tracker is detected.

Tile 4-pack tracker set: $73.47

This Tile tracker set includes two tag-style trackers for backpacks or suitcases, a slim card that fits inside a wallet or passport holder, and a sticker that attaches to items like laptops or cameras. All four work with iPhone and Android devices through the Life360 app.

Personal safety alarm: $26.95

Carry extra peace of mind with the HerTime2 personal safety alarm. When activated, it emits a loud siren and flashing strobe lights to help draw attention in an emergency. Its compact size makes it easy to clip onto a backpack, purse or keychain for hikes, travel and everyday outings.

Portable door lock: $12.99

Add an extra layer of security to your accommodations with this portable travel lock set. It includes a door lock that helps prevent unwanted entry and a doorstop alarm that sounds a loud siren if someone attempts to open the door. Compact enough to fit in a carry-on, it's an easy addition to any packing list.

AlarmID laptop and luggage security alarm: $58.99

Protect your laptop and other USB-C devices with the AlarmID anti-theft cable. Simply loop it around a fixed object and plug it into your device's USB-C port. If someone tampers with or disconnects it, the built-in alarm sounds. The rechargeable battery is designed to last through extended trips and vacations.

Master Lock portable safe box: $17.97 (25% off)

Original price: $23.99

Keep valuables like your phone, wallet, passport and headphones secure with this portable lock box. The compact safe features a customizable four-digit combination and fits easily into a suitcase or backpack. A built-in cable port lets you charge devices or listen to music while they're locked inside.

TSA-approved cable luggage locks: $23.95

Secure multiple suitcases with this four-pack of TSA-approved luggage locks. Each includes a customizable three-digit combination that's easy to set, while the flexible design fits a variety of zipper pulls and luggage styles. The durable cable is built to resist tampering during travel.

Door stoppers: $4.59

Door stoppers make it difficult for someone outside a room to get in. This set comes with two that can be wedged under the door from the inside to prevent it from opening. Lightweight and easy to stash in a carry-on bag, they're a practical pick no matter where you're headed.

Nobl All-In-One suitcase: $320 (67% off)

Original price: $970

Stay aware with Nobl's All-In-One suitcase, which includes a smart tracker for real-time location monitoring. The hard-shell polycarbonate exterior and dual TSA-approved combination locks add extra protection, while the interior compression system helps maximize packing space.

Anti-theft phone tether: $28.99 (23% off)

Original price: $37.49

Reduce the risk of dropped or stolen phones with the ClutchLoop tether. Designed for concerts, travel and everyday outings, it pairs a retractable, cut-resistant cable with a screw-lock carabiner for added security.

Pepper gel with safety whistle: $12.99 (13% off)

Original price: $14.99

Feel safer wherever you go with a two-in-one personal safety tool. The compact pepper gel keychain has a range of up to 12 feet and provides up to 25 bursts, while the safety whistle can be heard from up to 750 feet away to help attract attention in an emergency.

Passport cover with AirTag holder: $27.99

Track your most important travel documents with this passport holder featuring a built-in AirTag pocket. Pair it with Apple's Find My app to locate your passport if it goes missing, while the integrated RFID-blocking lining helps protect sensitive personal information.

Pacsafe Vibe 150 anti-theft sling pack: $82.86 (8% off)

Original price: $89.95

Protect your valuables while sightseeing with this anti-theft sling bag. It features lockable zippers, cut-resistant fabric and an RFID-blocking pocket for passports and cards. The wire-reinforced shoulder strap can also be secured to a chair or table to help deter grab-and-go theft.

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

Away Everywhere Zip Backpack: $198

Away's Everywhere zip backpack combines everyday organization with travel-friendly security. Its wraparound zipper provides easy access to the spacious main compartment, while the padded laptop sleeve features a magnetic closure to help keep your computer in place.

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.

Sen Eric Schmitt seeks to end birth tourism, revoke citizenship for babies of foreign diplomats

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:12:13 -0400

The Supreme Court rejected President Donald Trump's attempt to clarify "birthright citizenship," but a Republican senator is taking up the mantle of Congress to rework the 14th Amendment, while calling for the Trump administration to revoke citizenship of babies born to foreign diplomats.

"The 14th Amendment confers American citizenship upon persons born in the United States while ‘subject to the jurisdiction thereof,’" Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., wrote in a letter Thursday to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.

"For more than a century, statutory law, judicial precedent, and executive-branch policy have recognized that foreign diplomats’ children born in the United States are not ‘subject to [its] jurisdiction’ and therefore do not acquire citizenship at birth.

"Indeed, even though the majority in Trump v. Barbara wrongfully expanded birthright citizenship to cover the children of illegal aliens and temporarily present aliens, it too recognized that the children of diplomats do not acquire birthright citizenship."

'IT'S INSANE': GOP SENATOR SAYS SUPREME COURT BIRTHRIGHT RULING HANDS CHINA A CITIZENSHIP LOOPHOLE

Schmitt's letter requests the State Department and DHS investigate "illegal grants of citizenship documentation to foreign diplomats’ children, implement policies and procedures to prevent it from occurring in the future, identify the individuals who have illegally procured citizenship documentation in this manner, and revoke those individuals’ illegally procured citizenship documentation."

The demand comes two days after Schmitt introduced the American Citizenship Act, legislation that would limit birthright citizenship to children of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.

"SCOTUS got birthright citizenship dangerously wrong," Schmitt wrote on X. "I'm filing the American Citizenship Act to start the process of restoring the 14th Amendment's original meaning.

"My bill restores the original understanding to prevent birthright citizenship for illegal aliens and tourists."

TRUMP BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP FIGHT COMES ROARING BACK WITH ‘INVADERS’ PLAY AFTER KAVANAUGH ROADMAP

The Supreme Court ruled June 30 in Trump v. Barbara that children born in the U.S. to parents who are unlawfully or temporarily present are citizens at birth under the 14th Amendment’s Citizenship Clause. The decision blocked Trump’s executive order seeking to deny citizenship to those children.

Schmitt’s bill is aimed at reopening the fight through Congress.

"American citizenship is sacred — our nation, and its people, are bound together by the values and freedoms our forefathers fought a revolution to secure," Schmitt wrote in a statement Tuesday, when he introduced the American Citizenship Act.

"But the Supreme Court’s erroneous interpretation of the 14th Amendment last month degraded the meaning of that citizenship by extending it to children born to illegal or temporary aliens — including ‘birth tourists’ — who come to our country in violation of our laws.

"That is an egregious departure from the original meaning of the 14th Amendment."

TRUMP’S SCOTUS PREDICTION TAKES ON NEW WEIGHT AHEAD OF BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP RULING

The Thursday letter focuses on a narrower category: children of foreign diplomats. Federal policy has long treated children born in the U.S. to accredited foreign diplomatic officers as outside the 14th Amendment’s birthright citizenship guarantee because their parents are not fully subject to U.S. jurisdiction.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) says such children do not acquire citizenship at birth, though they may register for lawful permanent residence.

Schmitt argued that despite the rule, foreign diplomats’ children have still been able to obtain birth certificates, Social Security numbers and other documents that can be used to claim U.S. citizenship. His letter said agencies lack adequate safeguards to flag when a newborns' parents are foreign diplomats before citizenship-related documents are issued.

"Foreign diplomats’ children using improperly procured citizenship documentation to illegally claim citizenship degrades the meaning of American citizenship, undermines our sovereignty, and threatens our national security," Schmitt wrote.

Schmitt urged the State Department and DHS to investigate the scope of what he called improper grants of citizenship documentation, prevent future issuance, identify those who received the documents and revoke documentation that was unlawfully obtained. His letter cited public reporting and legal scholarship to claim that potentially thousands of diplomats’ children may have received citizenship records, despite not being citizens at birth.

Schmitt, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, has made birthright citizenship a central focus after the Supreme Court decision. He previously announced plans for a constitutional amendment and led an amicus brief backing Trump’s birthright citizenship executive order.

Civil liberties groups have sharply opposed efforts to restrict birthright citizenship. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which challenged Trump’s executive order, argued the 14th Amendment guarantees citizenship to children born in the U.S. and said no president can rewrite that constitutional protection.

Schmitt, however, said the court’s ruling strengthened the case for congressional action.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"I introduced the American Citizenship Act to restore that original meaning, challenge the Supreme Court’s decision, protect the sacred bond of American citizenship, and honor the legacy of our nation’s patriots who fought to protect what it means to be an American," Schmitt's statement concluded.

"It would restart our fight in the courts for sanity in birthright citizenship. While the Supreme Court’s decision threatens to destroy American citizenship, I am fighting to defend it."

The White House did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

James Talarico admits Democrats took ‘border for granted’ under Biden

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:11:23 -0400

Texas state Rep. James Talarico said Thursday that the Democratic Party "took the border for granted" during the Biden administration as he faced questions about his views on border security.

Talarico, who is running against Republican state Attorney General Ken Paxton for a Texas Senate seat in the November midterm elections, was asked by MS NOW host Joe Scarborough, "So you would agree that Democrats made a big mistake in 2021, '22, '23, not focusing enough on border security, right?"

"Absolutely," Talarico said. "And I’ve called out President Biden and his administration for failing to secure our southern border. I remember talking to my colleagues in the state House who represent border communities, and they were telling me about the utter chaos along our southern border.

"And that’s unacceptable. We need to be about making government work for people. And this was a prime example of government not working for any of us."

OPEN BORDERS WERE INSANE, BUT POLITICIANS DIDN’T CARE. FAMILIES LIKE MINE PAID THE PRICE

Scarborough asked Talarico if there were enough Democrats who understood what a "horrible" mistake it was.

"When you look at the 2024 election results, and you see all of those counties along the border all going red, or almost all of them going red, do you think Democrats nationwide understand what you understand, that open borders is — is no solution? In fact, it is a disaster, not only politically, but a disaster for the communities, Hispanic communities along that border," the host said.

Talarico said border towns in Texas meant a lot to him and to his family and that Democrats took advantage of them.

"National Democrats took the border for granted. We stopped showing up there. And that’s why people along the southern border — it’s why people in south Texas started looking for alternatives. Republicans came to town and made big promises about, you know, common sense immigration approach, lowering people’s costs. But just a year into this administration, those promises haven’t been kept," Talarico said.

GOP ZEROES IN ON SOUTH TEXAS DEM WHO URGED TRUMP TO 'ALLOW PEOPLE TO CROSS FREELY'

Talarico was critical of the Trump administration's policy and described it as "extremism."

"We’ve seen this crazy, useless border wall through Big Bend being proposed when you already have a wall made by God with cliffs and mountain ranges much better than anything humans could build," he said.

"And then you’ve also seen costs skyrocketing for people along the border," Talarico continued. "You’ve seen these tariffs start to hurt small businesses in the region. So, folks are feeling really disillusioned. They feel like they’ve been let down by both political parties. And it’s why we’re showing up."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE

Talarico defeated Texas Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett in the primary for the Senate seat earlier this year.

Crockett said during a recent appearance at the Essence Festival that she didn't need to campaign alongside Talarico, arguing the best thing she could do is boost down-ballot candidates.

She also claimed the primary race was "racist."

"You see, a lot of haters got a lot of things to say about me and my race and how I ran it," Crockett said. "But the reality is that there was a lot of racist — not a lot, it was racist. It was a racist race. It is what it is, right?

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"But we live in America as y'all are celebrating 250," she continued. "OK? We know what this country is. But let me tell you the facts. There is no race that turned out more people to vote ever in the state of Texas except for Barack [Obama] and Hillary [Clinton]."

ICE resumes nationwide traffic stops under new policy requiring body cameras

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:11:14 -0400

ICE officers across the country have been told they can resume traffic stops under new guidance issued Thursday, but only if at least one officer involved is wearing a body camera, ICE sources tell Fox News.

The new directive means officers without access to body cameras are not authorized to conduct traffic stops. Body cameras have not yet been deployed to every ICE field office after the rollout began in the agency's largest cities.

The policy is expected to continue limiting the number of ICE traffic stops that can be conducted nationwide until the rollout is complete, a process sources say is expected to take roughly two more months.

"ICE will ensure each arrest team has an individual wearing a body camera," a DHS spokesperson said in a statement to Fox News. "Ensuring all of our ICE law enforcement officers have body cameras nationwide is a top priority for DHS — especially given the increase in attacks against our law enforcement, including a more than 1,300% increase in assaults against them and a 3,300% increase in vehicle attacks.

"This is especially needed because the media and sanctuary politicians consistently spread smears about our law enforcement."

ICE ARRESTS RECORD 238 ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS IN ONE DAY DURING SOUTH TEXAS ENFORCEMENT OPERATION

The spokesperson added, "the process of purchasing and issuing body-worn cameras to all of our ICE field offices was interrupted by the Democrats multiple government shutdowns. Body cameras have been deployed to more than half the field offices with the remaining half expected to receive them in less than 60 days."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The guidance marks the latest operational change for ICE as the agency expands its use of body cameras while resuming a key immigration enforcement tactic under President Donald Trump's second administration.

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

Resource-rich nation praises US ties amid Washington-Beijing critical minerals race

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:03:07 -0400

UNITED NATIONS — The Democratic Republic of Congo does not view growing American involvement in its critical minerals industry as a contest with China, the country’s foreign minister told Fox News Digital, arguing that Kinshasa needs multiple partners to transform its vast natural wealth into prosperity for its people.

"I don’t like talking about competition. I like talking about complementarity," Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner said in an exclusive interview at the United Nations.

"A country as big as the USA, but also a country as big as the DRC and as big as China, they do not develop just with one single partner," she added. "They develop with different partnerships that respond to different needs and that bring different expertise to the table."

CHINA’S GRIP ON RARE-EARTH MAGNETS COULD CRUSH US DRONE INDUSTRY BEFORE IT GROWS

The comments come as the Trump administration seeks to increase American access to Congo’s copper, cobalt, lithium, gold and other strategic resources, while reducing U.S. reliance on mineral supply chains dominated by China.

A strategic partnership signed by Washington and Kinshasa Dec. 4, 2025, calls for increased economic cooperation, investment and the development of secure and transparent critical-mineral supply chains. The agreement accompanied a broader regional framework linking economic integration to efforts to end decades of conflict between Congo and Rwanda.

TRUMP ADMIN BACKS BOLIVIA STATE OF EMERGENCY AS LEFTIST EX-LEADER'S LOYALISTS FRACTURE NATION

A separate arrangement involving DR Congo’s state mining company Gécamines and commodities trader Mercuria could give U.S. buyers priority access to some copper and cobalt supplies, Reuters reported Dec. 5, 2025. The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation also expressed interest in taking a strategic stake in the partnership.

Kayikwamba Wagner said relations between the U.S. and DR Congo were taking "a more concrete shape" based on mutual economic interests.

She said Kinshasa welcomed "more U.S. interests in the DRC" that could help the country turn its mineral wealth into "tangible transformations for the lives of Congolese," while also delivering benefits to American partners.

Speaking separately at a high-level U.N. meeting on critical minerals Tuesday, Kayikwamba Wagner warned that the global shift toward clean energy must not reproduce an economic model in which raw materials leave Africa while processing, technology and most of the profits remain elsewhere.

"The global energy transition must not become another extractive transition," she said. "If it merely replaces one form of dependency with another, it will have fallen short of its promise."

She called for foreign partnerships to support local processing, infrastructure, technology transfers, research, industrialization and access to financing — not simply secure supplies of raw materials.

CHILL COMING FROM TRUMP’S SUMMIT WITH XI IS PROOF OF A NEW COLD WAR WITH CHINA

The minerals push is closely connected to the U.S.-mediated peace process between the DRC and Rwanda. The countries initially signed a peace agreement in Washington June 27, 2025, before presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame reaffirmed the deal and signed related economic agreements on Dec. 4. The framework was intended both to reduce fighting and attract Western investment to a region rich in cobalt, copper, tantalum and other minerals.

Kayikwamba Wagner acknowledged that the agreement had not ended the violence but said Washington’s willingness to impose consequences for violations showed that the process remained meaningful.

"This is a 30-year conflict we’re dealing with," she said. "It’s not going to happen overnight."

She praised the administration for sanctioning the Rwanda Defense Force and senior Rwandan officials over what the Treasury Department described as their support for the M23 rebel group. Treasury said in March that the RDF had supported, trained and fought alongside M23 as it seized territory and strategic mining locations in eastern Congo. Rwanda has repeatedly denied supporting M23.

"I find it encouraging to see that we have with us a partner that is not willing to give up at the first obstacle," Kayikwamba Wagner said.

She was in New York as the DRC, which holds the Security Council presidency for July, elevated the connection between natural resources, armed conflict and sexual violence.

Kayikwamba Wagner said rape and other forms of conflict-related sexual violence had risen sharply in areas held by M23 and Rwandan forces, affecting women and girls as well as men and boys.

Victims in occupied areas, she said, often lack access to courts, healthcare or other avenues for redress.

"This is also one of the reasons why we continue to be mobilized against this illegal occupation of eastern DRC," she said, arguing that restoring state authority was essential to providing survivors with justice and medical care.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

In her U.N. remarks, she cited the Rubaya mining area, which is under M23 control and supplies a significant share of global tantalum demand. She said U.N. experts estimated that at least 1,400 tons of coltan were smuggled into Rwanda during the first year after the mines were seized, generating approximately $800,000 per month for the armed group.

The Treasury Department imposed additional sanctions on June 25 against a network it accused of working with M23 to smuggle minerals from eastern Congo into Rwanda, saying the action was intended to support the Washington peace framework and improve transparency in regional mineral supply chains.

Famous beach now requires visitors to reserve spots weeks ahead and pay fees

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:00:24 -0400

Italy's most famous beaches are becoming reservation-only destinations, leaving travelers to debate whether a day at the beach should require weeks of planning.

Several of the country's most popular beaches now require visitors to reserve entry before arriving, with QR codes, daily visitor caps and admission fees replacing the traditional first-come, first-served approach, according to Fodor's Travel Guide.

The changes are noticeable, particularly on the island of Sardinia, where officials have introduced reservation systems to manage growing crowds and help protect some of Italy's most environmentally sensitive coastlines, Forbes reported.

BRAZEN PICKPOCKETS PREY ON VULNERABLE TOURISTS AS VACATION ISLAND IS SWARMED BY MILLIONS

One of the best-known examples is La Pelosa Beach, where reservations are mandatory May 15 through Oct. 15, the beach's official reservation website says.

Access is limited to 1,500 visitors per day. Five hundred spots can be booked at any time during the season, while the remaining 1,000 are released two days before the selected visit date, according to the website.

Visitors ages 12 and older must reserve online, pay a €3.50 (about $4) daily fee and present a QR code for entry between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

The reservation system has become so popular that advance booking availability is reportedly sold out through Sept. 15.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

Another popular destination, Cala Goloritzé, also requires advance reservations from April through October.

Access is limited to 250 visitors at a time, with reservations opening 72 hours before the selected visit date.

TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

Visitors pay a €7 (about $8) admission fee, while children under age 6 are admitted for free.

The official reservation website recommends booking as soon as spots become available, noting that reservations often fill quickly.

The restrictions come as tourism continues to grow across Italy.

Italy recorded a 4.2% increase in tourist arrivals and a 7.5% increase in overnight stays during the first quarter of 2026, according to data from the Italian National Institute of Statistics (ISTAT).

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES

Sebastiano Venneri, a tourism official with Italy’s Legambiente environmental group, told The Times in the U.K., "Something has to be done since the number of tourists globally is jumping from 1 billion in 2000 to an expected two billion in 2030."

The growing use of reservations has also sparked debate over whether some of Europe's most famous public beaches should require advance planning, visitor caps and entrance fees or remain freely accessible to anyone who wants to spend a day by the sea.

Online, some travelers said the restrictions are simply becoming another part of planning a vacation, while others questioned whether access to public beaches is becoming increasingly limited.

"Then you go to book, and it's all booked up," one Reddit user wrote.

Another commenter questioned the growing restrictions.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"Who benefits from this? Certainly not the customers," the person wrote.

"More free beaches!" another user added.

Home Run Derby ratings crash on Netflix, sets 20-plus-year low as questions surface about program quality

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:55:10 -0400

The Home Run Derby drew just 5.3 million viewers on Netflix on Monday, marking the event's lowest audience since 2003.

The two-decade low is somewhat unusual, given that most live sporting events have posted notable year-over-year viewership gains in recent years.

Still, the slumpish rating likely has more to do with Netflix than the event itself. Despite changing viewing habits, live sports continue to perform better on traditional television than on streaming platforms.

NETFLIX CO-CEO CLARIFIES STREAMING GIANT’S LIVE SPORTS STRATEGY AMID NFL LINEUP EXPANSION, FEDERAL SCRUTINY

The drop also isn't particularly alarming. The Home Run Derby averaged 5.73 million viewers on ESPN in 2025 and 5.45 million in 2024, meaning Netflix's first broadcast wasn't far off the event's recent baseline.

The hope for major sports leagues is that the gap between streaming and linear television will continue to narrow and that, eventually, a marquee event will draw a larger audience on a streaming platform than on a traditional network.

Right now, the strongest model appears to be simulcasting games across both television and streaming, whether it's NBC/Peacock, ESPN/ESPN Unlimited, or Fox/Fox One.

TV NETWORKS HAVE MORE LEVERAGE OVER THE NFL AND STREAMERS THAN THE LEAGUE REALIZES

Further, Netflix's sports coverage remains underwhelming.

Netflix's foray into live sports has drawn widespread criticism for often feeling more like an infomercial for the company's entertainment slate than a straightforward sports broadcast.

The streamer continues to feature celebrities and influencers prominently during its coverage, including Will Ferrell throughout Monday's Home Run Derby.

Even longtime sports radio host Dan Patrick criticized Netflix's approach on Monday.

"I'd like to think I'm at least socially aware of sporting events, but I had no idea," Patrick said. "And then all of a sudden, it's like Netflix, and then you had Will Ferrell show up, you had Bonds and Pujols, and I'm like, OK. They're trying. Netflix is trying, trying different things. Now, sometimes you can try too hard. Sometimes you can try to dress something up, and you really don't need to."

Indeed.

Netflix also hasn't helped itself by making former ESPN host Elle Duncan the face of its sports division. To much of the general public, Duncan is best known for reportedly questioning Sage Steele's "blackness" behind the scenes and protesting "Don't Say Gay" on the air during the NCAA tournament.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST SPORTS NEWS

"Who at Netflix decided we’re going to make Elle Duncan the face and voice of Netflix Sports? And how does that person still have a job? Legit they have all the money in the world and this was their pick. It’s like giving Davis Mills a $200 million contract," OutKick founder Clay Travis asked on X.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"Apologies to Davis Mills. Poor guy is probably just trying to watch the home run derby in peace and just got drive by whacked by me. He’s way better at QB’ing than Duncan is at hosting TV."

Suffice it to say, Netflix has work to do before it becomes a serious player in live sports. And its programming decisions aren't doing much to increase either interest or viewership.

Insurance companies put on notice for stranding trans patients who want to reverse surgeries

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:13:34 -0400

Rep. Diana Harshbarger, R-Tenn., a lawmaker with a pharmacy background, is introducing a bill that would require health insurance companies that provide transgender procedures to also pay for detransitions and adverse effects.

Harshbarger fears that under many current plans, transitioners who consider reversing their sex-reassignment procedures are stuck with what is effectively a financial one-way door.

"It's outrageous that a health plan can cover sex-rejecting procedures but refuse to cover the restorative care patients need to address the harm they cause. That's not a fair deal for patients who want to restore healthy bodily function," Harshbarger said.

MED SCHOOL DEANS COME UP EMPTY IN TENSE HEARING WHEN ASKED POINT BLANK IF MEN CAN HAVE BABIES: 'RIDICULOUS'

Although unlikely to become law over Democratic opposition in the Senate, the bill, titled the TRUTH in Coverage Act, draws attention to a growing number of patients who have regretted sex-reassignment procedures and lawmaker concern over barriers to addressing their fallout.

It would require insurers that cover "sex-rejecting procedures" to also cover items and services needed to address the complications or adverse effects resulting from them. The bill would enact the requirement regardless of state or local laws that mandate such procedures.

If passed, the bill would go into effect Jan. 1, 2027. It has 12 cosponsors, including Rep. Buddy Carter, R-Ga., the former chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health.

In its current form, Harshbarger’s bill would amend three federal statutes governing private health insurance coverage to create a uniform federal coverage requirement: the Public Health Service Act, employer-sponsored health plans and group health plans. The bill would also prevent insurers from adjusting copays, deductibles or implementing treatment limitations.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed a similar bill into law last year, addressing a similar concern at the local level.

WATCH: DR. OZ SAYS NEWSOM, OTHER BLUE STATES HAVE TURNED MEDICAID FRAUD INTO A 'FEATURE'

Senate Bill 1257, sponsored by Texas Sen. Bryan Hughes, published a statement with the Texas Senate Research Senate, arguing the need for his bill.

"Many of these individuals require extensive medical care to manage or reverse the effects of previous treatments, yet they are frequently denied insurance coverage, leading to insurmountable out-of-pocket expenses. Without this coverage, patients face significant health risks, including hormone imbalances, surgical complications, and psychological distress," Hughes wrote.

According to the National Library of Medicine, it’s difficult to determine exactly how many detransitions there are or at what point someone would be considered a detransitioner. Researchers noted that stopping hormones, reversing surgeries or changing legal documents could all be triggers for what it means to begin the detransition process.

By casting a wide net and including adverse effects, Harshbarger’s bill would circumvent those technicalities.

"Patients should never be abandoned after undergoing life-altering, harmful medical interventions once reality sets in," Harshbarger said.

TALARICO CAMPAIGNS WITH SURGEON WHO OPERATED ON TRANSGENDER MINORS: ‘WOLF IN SHEEP’S CLOTHING’

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"As a pharmacist, I've seen insurance companies find every excuse in the book to avoid paying for the care patients actually need. My TRUTH in Coverage Act restores fairness, promotes transparency and ensures patients aren't left paying the price for care their insurance should cover."

It’s unclear when and if Harshbarger’s bill would reach the House floor for a vote.

White House condemns staffer accused of betting on Trump speech as a 'disgrace'

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:48:23 -0400

The White House on Thursday condemned as "a disgrace" a Trump administration teleprompter operator accused of betting on President Donald Trump's speeches, saying he has been placed on paid administrative leave amid a federal investigation.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump had been briefed on the matter and condemned the staffer's alleged conduct during Thursday's White House press briefing.

"Obviously, I'm aware of the report. The president is, too. I spoke with him about it," Leavitt said. "He believes it's deeply unfortunate and, frankly, a disgrace."

TRUMP KEEPS 'REALLY BIG' ADDRESS UNDER WRAPS AS WHITE HOUSE SAYS ‘NOBODY KNOWS’ WHAT HE’LL REVEAL

Leavitt said the employee has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the investigation and confirmed a different teleprompter operator would handle Trump's speech Thursday evening.

ABC News first reported that federal investigators with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission found a White House staffer — identified by sources as Gabriel Perez, Trump's teleprompter operator since 2016 — allegedly made tens of thousands of dollars by betting on the contents of Trump's speeches through the prediction market Kalshi.

"The White House has strict ethics guidelines that we expect all staffers and officials to follow," White House spokesman Davis Ingle told Fox News when asked about the report. "The staffer in question is fully cooperating with the CFTC."

A CFTC spokesperson told Fox News the agency "can't confirm or deny an investigation."

The case began after Kalshi's surveillance systems flagged a series of unusual trades in March involving markets tied to words and phrases expected to appear in Trump's public remarks.

HEGSETH ANNOUNCES JOINT TASK FORCE WITH DOJ TO PROSECUTE LEAKS TO JOURNALISTS 'WITH THE FULL FORCE OF THE LAW'

Kalshi said the trades stood out because they did not follow typical trading patterns and also drew complaints from market makers through the platform's whistleblower channels. After reviewing account information, the company said it identified the trader as a federal employee who worked as a White House teleprompter operator.

Kalshi said it froze the account before the trader could withdraw most of the alleged profits, leaving more than $90,000 on the platform while the matter was referred to federal regulators.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"Our surveillance team promptly flagged and referred these trades to the CFTC after an exchange investigation," Robert DeNault, Kalshi's head of enforcement, told Fox News. "We have been assisting regulators on this matter and provided evidence we collected, as we do in any referral."

Kalshi said the markets involved common words and topics expected to appear in presidential speeches — including country names, economic terms, campaign language and social issues — rather than classified or otherwise sensitive information. The company added it has worked with the CFTC for months as the investigation has continued.

'The Big Bang Theory' star Jim Parsons says he paid a steep price for fame

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:39:52 -0400

Jim Parsons had the career millions dream about, but the "Big Bang Theory" star said the success came with a steep personal price.

At the height of his fame, Parsons wasn't celebrating his success. Instead, the Emmy-winning actor said he was overwhelmed by obsessive habits that left him "stressed" and "miserable."

"I look back now and realize that there were many ways, at some of the best moments of my life, I was miserable," Parsons said during an appearance on "All Out with Jon Dean." "I was not happy. I was stressed.

"I felt that there was so many plates I was supposed to be keeping in the air and that the success and the good things of life that were happening were only due to this overworking ... discipline and whatever," he continued. "And maybe to a degree that was true. I don't know."

'BIG BANG THEORY' STAR JIM PARSONS JOKES HE 'KNOWS WHERE ALL THE BODIES ARE BURIED'

Although Parsons acknowledged his intense discipline may have contributed to his success, he said the constant pressure he placed on himself wasn't worth the emotional toll.

"I can't say, because that's how I was," he added. "But I wouldn't do that again and for any amount of money ... just because it was stressful and miserable at times. I made myself miserable."

"From your own work ethic?" host Jon Dean asked.

"If you want to call it that," Parsons said. "It translated in part into a work ethic, but it was really just obsessive behavior basically."

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER

Parsons said the perfectionism that helped propel his career also trapped him in a cycle of obsessive behavior he now realizes wasn't necessary.

"Yes, I was disciplined. Yes, I had a good work ethic, but a lot of it was because it was kind of OCD in nature," he noted.

"I had a list of things basically in my head that I had to get done in order to be comfortable and know that I could do my job right, which I don't think was true."

The actor said his obsessive routine caused him to miss out on "tons of life" that didn't fit into the structure he had built for himself. Even now, Parsons admitted he doesn't know whether he could have found a better balance.

"I don't honestly know," he told Dean. "In the same way, I can't go back. I don't know that I would be where I – well, I wouldn't be where I am right now if I hadn't had that time of life.

"And the somewhat self-tortured nature of it was part of it," he added. "So, I don't know what to tell people. ... Like, I don't know how much of that is necessary."

LIKE WHAT YOU'RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS

Parsons rose from stage work and small television roles to become one of Hollywood's most recognizable sitcom stars after landing the role of Dr. Sheldon Cooper on CBS's "The Big Bang Theory" in 2007.

His performance on the show earned him four Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series and a Golden Globe.

"The Big Bang Theory" ran for 12 seasons, from 2007 to 2019, and became one of the most successful sitcoms in TV history. Parsons starred alongside Johnny Galecki, Kaley Cuoco, Simon Helberg, Kunal Nayyar, Mayim Bialik and Melissa Rauch in the sitcom.

He is also known for his roles in "Young Sheldon," "The Normal Heart," "Hidden Figures" and "The Boys in the Band."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Alleged Feeding Our Future fraud ringleader extradited from Somalia to face US charges

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:30:06 -0400

One of the alleged ringleaders of the massive Feeding Our Future pandemic relief fraud scheme in Minnesota has been brought back to the United States to face charges, authorities said.

Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh, 42, of Burnsville, Minnesota, was arrested June 26 in Somalia and extradited to the U.S. Thursday, the FBI said.

Federal prosecutors allege Eidleh was the mastermind who bilked taxpayers out of $250 million by exploiting federal child nutrition programs meant to feed vulnerable children. Authorities have described it as one of the largest fraud cases in Minnesota history.

"Today is a historic moment in the FBI’s war on fraud," said FBI Director Kash Patel. "The Foreign Transfer of Custody of Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh brings to justice one of the alleged ringleaders of the $250 million ‘Feeding our Future’ fraud scandal out of Minnesota, where the FBI has already helped secure over 70 guilty pleas from fraudsters in partnership with the Justice Department."

MINNESOTA MAN CAPTURED IN SOMALIA AFTER ALLEGEDLY HELPING ORCHESTRATE $250M CHILD NUTRITION FRAUD SCHEME

Eidleh faces 31 counts, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, federal programs bribery, conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering.

Federal prosecutors said Eidleh was an employee of the Feeding Our Future (FOF) nonprofit, responsible for recruiting and supporting Federal Child Nutrition Program sites under Feeding Our Future’s sponsorship.

MINNESOTA FRAUD MASTERMIND GETS NEARLY 42 YEARS IN PRISON IN MASSIVE $250M 'FEEDING OUR FUTURE' SCHEME

He and other FOF employees allegedly solicited and received bribes and kickbacks from people and companies seeking approval to operate fraudulent Federal Child Nutrition Program sites.

Feeding Our Future allegedly operated a "pay-to-play" scheme in which operators of fraudulent meal sites kicked back a portion of their illicit proceeds to employees, including Eidleh, often disguising the payments as consulting fees through shell companies, according to an indictment previously reported by Fox News Digital.

Prosecutors also said Eidleh created Federal Child Nutrition Program sites using nominee owners, then falsely claimed the sites were serving meals to thousands of children each day.

FBI CAPTURES $1.2B MEDICARE FRAUD FUGITIVE IN PHILIPPINES, SECOND ARREST FROM MOST WANTED FRAUDSTERS LIST

"These are individuals who stole critical, taxpayer-funded resources from kids in need during the COVID pandemic, and Eidleh was allegedly right at the top of the operation," Patel said.

According to prosecutors, Eidleh deposited more than $5 million in fraud proceeds, kickbacks and bribes into accounts associated with shell companies he created in an effort to conceal the source of the money.

In 2022, Eidleh fled the U.S., Patel said, noting that criminals should be aware that "no matter where you try to hide, we will find you."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

In May, Aimee Bock, who headed the Feeding Our Future nonprofit, was sentenced to nearly 42 years in prison for her role in the fraud.

Fox News Digital's Michael Sinkewicz contributed to this report.

JJ Watt goes after MLS squad after social post leaves out wife, a local soccer legend: 'Worth a mention'

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:20:49 -0400

A former pro soccer player was stiffed in a social media post, taking a back seat to her relatively more famous husband.

Future Pro Football Hall of Famer J.J. Watt is married to Kealia Ohai Watt, a former member of the U.S. Women's National Team who played in the National Women's Soccer League.

The couple took in an MLS game Wednesday night, watching Real Salt Lake take on Burnley F.C., which the Watts partially own, and the team welcomed the couple with an X post.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"Welcome to the Riot, @JJWatt and fam," the team wrote.

Watt, however, was not pleased that his wife, a local soccer legend, was dismissed. Ohai attended Alta High School in nearby Sandy and won four state titles with her youth soccer club.

"The woman in the photo grew up literally down the road, won 4 Utah state championships (1 in this exact stadium), Gatorade Player of the Year twice, National Player of the Year, scored the fastest first goal in USWNT history… Could probably be worth a mention, but idk," Watt said in a reply.

TRINITY RODMAN SAYS NWSL RECORD-CROWD GAME IN NY SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN PLAYED AMID POOR AIR

Ohai also won a national championship with the University of North Carolina.

After college, she was the second overall pick in the NWSL College Draft by the Houston Dash, a team she captained from 2016 until being traded to the Chicago Red Stars in 2020.

The couple purchased its stake in Burnley F.C., which played in the Premier League last season, in 2023.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Ohai's brother-in-law is Watt's former Houston Texans teammate, Brian Cushing.

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