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Measles surge hits new milestone as US cases surpass last year's total

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 13:28:29 -0400

Measles has reemerged as a persistent public health challenge in the U.S. over the past two years — and the spread isn't slowing down.

According to a Johns Hopkins University tracker that compiles local and state health data, there were 2,295 confirmed measles cases in the U.S. as of July 22.

This figure has officially surpassed the 2025 numbers, which totaled 2,286 measles cases nationwide.

MEASLES-INFECTED TRAVELER MAY HAVE EXPOSED PASSENGERS AT LAX AND NEARBY HOTEL, HEALTH OFFICIALS WARN

Cases have been reported across the country, but concentrated outbreaks have worsened in some areas of Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Florida, Virginia, Utah, Texas and Arizona. In 2025, Texas had the largest outbreak, totaling 803 cases throughout the state.

In the latest CDC measles update on July 17, there were 34 new outbreaks reported in 2026, compared to 48 outbreaks in 2025. Most cases were associated with local outbreaks, while some were linked to international visitors.

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Both this year and last year, 93% of all measles patients were either unvaccinated for measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), or had an unknown vaccination status, data shows.

Most cases have occurred in children and young adults between the ages of 5 and 19. There have been no deaths reported in 2026, according to the CDC, but there were three deaths in 2025.

The rise in cases comes more than two decades after health agencies reported that the disease was eliminated in 2000.

Measles can be spread through direct contact with infectious droplets, or can be airborne when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes, according to health officials. The virus can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.

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Symptoms usually appear within a week or two, and may include a high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes.

A few days later, flat, red spots appear on the face and then spread down the neck to the rest of the body. People are most contagious in the four days before and four days after the rash appears.

Community protection

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, emphasized the highly contagious nature of measles.

"Measles is so contagious that up to 90% of susceptible people who are exposed to an infected person will become infected," he told Fox News Digital, noting the importance of community protection. "We need a 95% vaccine coverage rate to ensure herd immunity," he said.

The herd immunity threshold is a mathematical estimate based on how contagious a disease is and how effectively immunity from vaccination or prior infection prevents its spread, according to Siegel.

"In this case, two-dose vaccination is almost 100% effective, and natural immunity after a measles infection is generally lifelong," the doctor said. "This isn’t about personal choice, it’s about community protection. We need to protect those who can’t have a live virus vaccine because they are immunocompromised or pregnant."

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The doctor also cautioned that the U.S. could be at risk of losing its measles elimination status, as the number and duration of outbreaks suggest sustained local transmission within the U.S., rather than isolated cases linked only to international travel.

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The CDC recommends that everyone receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, calling vaccination the best protection against measles.

Anyone who is showing measles symptoms or think they’ve been exposed should self-isolate and contact their doctor before showing up to a medical center and infecting others.

CBP intercepted biological materials tied to U.S.–China virus network before COVID, new documents show

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 13:27:18 -0400

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has released another batch of documents related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The latest records show that U.S. officials intercepted undeclared biological materials tied to a U.S.–China coronavirus research network as early as 2018, likely in an attempt to avoid international tensions and regulatory scrutiny, Paul said.

The documents, which include a Department of Homeland Security intelligence report, primarily focus on a network centered around University of Minnesota virologist Fang Li.

SLACK MESSAGES RELEASED BY RAND PAUL APPEAR TO SHOW AUTHORS OF KEY COVID-19 ORIGIN PAPER HELD PRIVATE DOUBTS

In the years leading up to the pandemic, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) intercepted undeclared biological materials tied to this network of American and Chinese coronavirus researchers centered around Li, whose lab has been funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Paul stated in a news release.

In April 2018, Zhengli Shi, a scientist at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), asked Li to have a student transport antibodies for SARS research from the United States back to China.

Li told Shi that was not a good idea, given the "current tension between the USA and China," according to the documents. He suggested another scientist ship the antibodies instead.

CALIFORNIA MAYOR ACCUSED OF SECRETLY WORKING FOR CHINA, SPREADING PROPAGANDA WHILE IN OFFICE: FEDS

In October of that same year, Qibin Geng, a student in Fang Li's lab, offered to send live PEDV—a swine coronavirus—along with a growth protocol to Ralph Baric, a prominent American researcher.

Geng requested Baric's shipping address for the live virus. Geng had previously earned a degree from an institution affiliated with China's People's Liberation Army (PLA), but did not disclose any military service or affiliation on his visa application.

In November 2018, CBP agents at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport intercepted three undeclared vials concealed in paper towels and wax film from a courier, who named Yusen Zhou of China's Academy of Military Medical Sciences (AMMS) as the source.

RAND PAUL BRINGS CIA WHISTLEBLOWER TO SENATE HEARING ALLEGING 'DEEP STATE' COVID-19 CONSPIRACY

In June 2021, the same courier was stopped again at the Detroit airport while traveling out of China, carrying 132 vials and a laptop belonging to someone else.

CBP reported that the vials likely contained a species of fly commonly used as a model organism in biological research. The courier was also carrying a laptop issued by a U.S. research institution to another individual, along with login credentials.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Li.

As Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Paul has released several batches of internal documents through his public archive, "The Reading Room."

Previous releases highlighted private doubts expressed by the authors of the "Proximal Origin" paper regarding the virus's source, as well as how the FBI halted a planned border inspection of another virus researcher.

WNBA Star Sophie Cunningham's player exclusive Adidas shoe sells out in less than an hour online

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 13:23:06 -0400

Sophie Cunningham has quickly become arguably the second-most popular player in the WNBA, only behind Caitlin Clark, of course. She is a viral star on TikTok, one of the most efficient three-point shooters in the league, Clark’s defender when she’s bullied, a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model, and recently, an unapologetic defender of keeping women’s sports female. She’s the whole package, and many companies are taking advantage of her stardom, including Adidas.

On July 10, Adidas announced a player-exclusive Sophie Cunningham shoe that would be available for purchase in 10 days. The Crazy Energy "Sophie Cunningham" PE, a pink gradient colorway, released Friday morning for a retail price of $120.

JENNIFER SEY REVEALS ALLEGED COMMUNICATION WITH SOPHIE CUNNINGHAM AMID RECRUITMENT PITCH FOR XX-XY ATHLETICS

Friday morning, in collaboration with Adidas, Cunningham posted a video of her in an unmarked van full of her new sneakers with the caption: "today's the day. who's ready for the drop?", which has attracted over half a million views across Instagram and X in its first three hours of posting.

Within minutes of the social media promotion, most men's and women’s sizes were sold out. In less than an hour, they were all gone.

This is further proof that Cunningham’s marketability is skyrocketing. She’s on billboards, in commercials, a prominent voice in the culture war, and now, she has a best-selling shoe.

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In a league where only all-stars like Caitlin Clark, Sabrina Ionescu, Angel Reese, and A’ja Wilson get shoe deals, Cunningham is breaking the mold and changing the game.

CAITLIN CLARK PASSES LEBRON JAMES IN JERSEY SALES, FURTHER EXPOSING WNBA'S MARKETING PROBLEM

As for Clark, the Nike Caitlin 1 is scheduled to release on October 1, 2026, marking Caitlin Clark's first signature basketball shoe with Nike, after making the public wait almost three full seasons before a release. Nike officially announced the shoe and its accompanying signature apparel collection on June 17, 2026.

Rahm Emanuel warns ‘Bernie bros’ could sink Democrats by saddling moderates with socialist agenda

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 13:18:24 -0400

Former Obama White House chief of staff Rahm Emanuel warned Thursday that "Bernie bros" and democratic socialist candidates could hurt the Democratic Party in November's midterm elections by forcing moderates in competitive districts to answer for unpopular progressive positions.

Emanuel wrote in a Wall Street Journal opinion column that Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) candidates could divert attention from the issue he believes Democrats should make central in the campaign.

"In the name of ‘authenticity,’ the DSA and others are saddling the Democratic Party with nominees whose wildly unpopular positions will protect Republicans from having to pay the price of Donald Trump’s corruption and economic incompetence," Emanuel said.

He compared the current political environment with 2006, when he led the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) as the party gained 31 House seats. He said Democrats succeeded by recruiting candidates who eased voters' concerns that the party was culturally out of touch and weak on national defense.

RAHM EMANUEL WARNS NEW GENERATION OF DEM SOCIALISTS DON'T LIKE AMERICA

The former Chicago mayor said efforts to elect socialists in safely Democratic districts have now created problems for candidates elsewhere.

"When the DSA attempts to turn safe Democratic states and districts a darker shade of blue, Democratic candidates in swing districts are put at a distinct disadvantage," Emanuel said.

Emanuel pointed to DSA member Darializa Avila Chevalier’s victory over Rep. Adriano Espaillat in New York’s 13th Congressional District. The Mamdani-backed candidate narrowly defeated the five-term incumbent and Congressional Hispanic Caucus chairman in June’s Democratic primary. Emanuel said Republicans could use the positions promoted by socialist candidates in heavily Democratic districts against moderates nationwide.

"What happens in the 13th District doesn’t stay in the 13th District," Emanuel said.

RISING SOCIALIST STARS ON TRACK TO CONGRESS: WHO ARE DARIALIZA AVILA CHEVALIER, BRAD LANDER AND CLAIRE VALDEZ?

Emanuel also blamed socialists for promoting positions that he said contributed to Democrats' recent electoral losses.

"It was socialists who led the charge to defund the police, open the borders, abolish prisons, release violent criminals onto the streets and degrade the flag," he said.

Emanuel cited Nebraska Democratic congressional nominee Denise Powell, whom the state Republican Party has labeled as "DSA Denise." Powell is running against Republican Omaha City Councilman Brinker Harding for an open seat in Nebraska's competitive 2nd Congressional District.

He argued that Powell should be able to focus on Harding's record instead of spending campaign resources separating herself from the socialist movement.

"Candidates in competitive districts have to spend time and effort differentiating themselves from the DSA’s agenda when they should be focusing voters on Mr. Trump’s corruption," Emanuel said.

He identified Powell as a "bright star perfectly positioned to flip" Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District but said Republicans were unfairly labeling her.

Fox News Digital reached out to Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Powell for comment, but did not immediately receive a response.

On Tuesday, Emanuel got into a heated clash with The New Yorker's David Remnick over why the potential 2028 Democratic candidate wasn't emphasizing left-wing culture war topics like transgender issues.

HOUSE REPUBLICANS AIM TO TURN DEMOCRATIC CIVIL WAR INTO MIDTERM WEAPON

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Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was asked Friday on CNN's "The Situation Room" whether he agreed with Emanuel's argument. Buttigieg said moderate Democrats should focus on presenting their own agenda.

"Yeah, I think those of us who are more moderate in the party should concentrate our efforts on talking about what we’re for," he said. "Just like the Democratic Party as a whole has to be about more than just being against Republicans."

Buttigieg did not address Emanuel’s individual policy criticisms, instead promoting affordable healthcare, tax fairness and campaign finance reform.

"This is the kind of agenda that I think can be unifying, and I’m much more interested in that than any kind of factional project inside or outside the Democratic Party," Buttigieg said.

Buttigieg campaigned with Powell in Omaha earlier this month, WOWT reported. The DCCC has also placed Powell in its Red to Blue program, which supports Democratic candidates in competitive Republican-held districts.

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A poll released Wednesday found Buttigieg in a close second to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in New Hampshire as a potential 2028 contender for the Democratic presidential nomination.

GOP rift grows as Thune hits brakes on Trump's election bill to avert shutdown

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 13:14:56 -0400

The wheels are in motion for Republicans to take another swing at President Donald Trump’s top election priority, but in the Senate, the main focus is keeping the government open.

House Republicans advanced their framework for another party-line budget reconciliation package that, among other funding priorities, includes a rough sketch to find a way to pass part of the SAVE America Act in the Senate.

But Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., is prioritizing another issue: preventing Senate Democrats from getting the opportunity to shut down the government ahead of the midterm elections in the fall.

JOHNSON DELIVERS BIG FOR TRUMP, BUT FRUSTRATION GROWS ACROSS RAZOR-THIN GOP MAJORITY

Thune plans to hold the House’s budget framework until the Senate can move a funding extension, known as a continuing resolution. Doing so, however, delays reconciliation, and in turn, trying to pass the SAVE America Act.

Negotiations on a continuing resolution between Republicans and Democrats are already underway in the Senate, but some in the GOP worry that Thune’s maneuver opens the door for betrayal.

"I support (Thune), I like him. I don't agree with him on this," Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., an appropriator, told Fox News Digital. "I've seen this vampire movie before. He wants to negotiate with the Democrats. I respect that, but right now, if you turn the other cheek to Chuck (Schumer), he’s just gonna stab me in the neck."

Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., told Fox News Digital she understood Kennedy’s position, but that Republicans needed to strike on funding the government while the opportunity was there.

"I believe that, particularly in the last year, we've seen Democrats getting more and more comfortable with not doing their job and finding a pathway forward," Britt said. "I do think we all have a duty and an obligation to try to find one here."

HOUSE GOP VOTES TO PUNT GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN BATTLE TO AFTER NOVEMBER MIDTERMS

Kennedy also is unhappy with the slowdown in passing the SAVE America Act, a sentiment shared by his colleagues in the House.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., contended that the Senate could, and should, do both at the same time.

"Well, we all should be able to walk and chew gum at the same time," Scalise told Fox News Digital before the vote Tuesday. "In fact, this week, we're doing both. We're passing the reconciliation bill that will move SAVE America, and we're passing a continuing resolution to fund the government at current levels."

The House did pass a continuing resolution earlier in the week, but the Senate is working on a plan that could score Democratic votes, which, given the 60-vote filibuster threshold, is a necessity in the upper chamber.

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole, R-Okla., told Fox News Digital he was largely open to whatever could help Republicans avoid a shutdown ahead of the all-important midterm elections.

"Obviously, we would consider anything they had," Cole said. "A lot depends on what's in it and whether or not, if we'd lost Republicans, are they going to replace them over here with Democrats? But no, I think the more talking about getting this done, the better off we are, the less chance of a shutdown."

Thune also floated attaching the continuing resolution to the reconciliation bill sent over by the House as a means of bypassing the 60-vote threshold, which Rep. Andrew Clyde, R-Ga., called "problematic" because they are two separate aspects of government funding that are not traditionally paired.

REPUBLICAN SAYS TRUMP'S TOP ELECTION PRIORITY 'DEAD' IN SENATE AS GOP FRACTURES AHEAD OF MIDTERMS

"I would suggest that Leader Thune do exactly what the House is doing," Clyde said. "Putting a continuing resolution on the budget reconciliation is problematic because you've got mandatory and discretionary funding mixed, literally for the entire Congress."

But the SAVE America Act may not even survive the strict rules that allow Republicans to use reconciliation. It also might not have the 50 votes needed to pass, either.

Thune, when asked about the criticism of his plan and the concerns holding up the SAVE America Act, told Fox News Digital, "as I've said before, we gotta get to 50."

"And I can't count to 50 right now on a budget resolution," Thune said. "But we'll see. I mean, we'll have those conversations at the conference. The priority is funding the government. And, so, to me, that's the thing we've got to keep our eyes on."

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Republicans across the chambers agree on the latter point to find a way to keep the lights on and prevent yet another government shutdown.

But still, those not completely bought into Thune’s plan think that both issues can be completed.

"We need to do government funding, he’s right on that," Rep. Michael Cloud, R-Texas, told Fox News Digital. "We should also make sure our elections are secure, we should support the military, and so I think the reconciliation bill should move forward as well. But you know what, the Senate’s the Senate, they’ll do what they want to do."

Another top Seattle mayoral aide exits as Katie Wilson administration faces continued staff turnover

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 13:12:41 -0400

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson's press secretary is leaving City Hall after less than seven months on the job, marking the latest high-profile departure from an administration that has already faced significant staffing turnover during its first year.

Local outlet PubliCola reported Wednesday that Sage Wilson made the call after "deciding he’d be more effective as an advocate for progressive causes outside the mayor’s office than inside it."

"Wilson, who previously worked in media relations for the labor advocacy group Working Washington and the progressive policy group Civic Ventures, doesn’t have a job lined up yet; his last day will be in early August," the report continued.

On his LinkedIn page, Wilson identifies himself as Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson’s deputy communications director.

SOCIALIST MAYOR KATIE WILSON SILENT AMID PROTESTS OVER ‘HUMAN DUMPING GROUND’ AHEAD OF US WORLD CUP MATCH

Sage Wilson's departure is the latest in a series of staffing changes inside Mayor Katie Wilson's office. PubliCola previously reported that the mayor's communications director, Seferiana Day, resigned in June after the mayor requested her resignation following several weeks of negative publicity.

According to the outlet, City Hall later brought in political consultant Crystal Nicole Fincher as a temporary communications advisor and Seattle Department of Transportation spokeswoman Dawn Schellenberg to assist with media relations.

On Thursday, the Everett Post reprinted a story from The Center Square that quoted Schellenberg as saying that the turnover is to be expected.

SEATTLE CLEANED UP FOR THE WORLD CUP BUT ONLY WHILE THE WORLD WAS WATCHING, COMMENTATOR SAYS

"It is common for new administrations to have some turnover and restructuring during the early phase as staff settle into their roles and address the priorities voters elected them to do," Schellenberg said.

Before taking office, Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson urged Seattle residents to boycott Starbucks in support of a baristas' union protest at one of the company's local stores. She later softened her stance after Starbucks announced it would establish a regional headquarters in Nashville and relocate some Seattle-based jobs there.

"I had the pleasure of visiting the Pike Place Market Starbucks a little while ago, and I ordered – I think it was a blueberry muffin latte that was like a staff creation," Wilson said during a June interview with FOX 13 Seattle co-anchor Hana Kim, who had asked Wilson if she still supports a boycott of Starbucks.

"I guess I broke my boycott," Wilson added. "And yeah, but I, you know, I don’t know. What do you want me to say about that?"

In a May Wall Street Journal opinion piece, former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz criticized Wilson's "socialist rhetoric," arguing it reflected an anti-business climate contributing to companies leaving Seattle.

SEATTLE MAYOR’S STARBUCKS BOYCOTT CALL SLAMMED BY LOCAL RADIO HOST AS COFFEE GIANT ADDS NASHVILLE-BASED ROLES

"Seattle’s mayor, Katie Wilson, has chosen to cast business as a foil rather than a partner," Schultz wrote in the op-ed. "Her socialist rhetoric vilifies employers, even while she continues to rely on them for revenue. She has encouraged residents who disagree with her policies to leave."

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News of Sage Wilson’s departure quickly prompted criticism from political opponents on social media, many of whom pointed to the administration's earlier staff changes as evidence of broader instability. Others wished the departing spokesman well and speculated about the demands of the job.

Fox News Digital reached out to Sage Wilson for comment.

'America's Most Wanted' ex-cop fugitive returned after 20 years on the run to face murder, child sex charges

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 13:09:11 -0400

A former South Carolina police officer accused of killing his wife before disappearing for more than two decades has been returned to the United States from China to face murder and child sex charges, the U.S. Marshals Service announced Thursday.

Dan Hiers Jr., 53, was taken into U.S. custody in Shanghai on Wednesday after deputy U.S. marshals traveled to China to escort him back to the United States.

Hiers is wanted in South Carolina on a Goose Creek warrant charging him with murder and a Dorchester County warrant charging him with criminal sexual conduct with a minor, the Marshals Service said.

MAN ACCUSED OF KILLING WIFE ON WEDDING NIGHT BROUGHT BACK TO US AFTER YEARS ON THE RUN IN MEXICO

Investigators allege Hiers shot his wife, 24-year-old Ludimila Hiers, in the back of the head while she slept inside the couple's Goose Creek home on March 15, 2005.

Authorities said the killing came just hours before Hiers was scheduled to surrender to face additional child sex charges in Dorchester County.

Dorchester County Sheriff Sam Richardson said his office has been notified that Hiers is being returned to face justice on the criminal sexual conduct with a minor charge filed in 2005.

"Daniel Hiers was entrusted to serve the public as a police officer. Instead, he is accused of betraying that trust and preying upon a child," Richardson said. "No badge, title, or position will ever place someone above the law."

Hiers, a former Charleston Police Department officer, had been suspended in 2004 after he was accused of sexually abusing a minor. He was arrested Nov. 24, 2004, on a charge of committing or attempting a lewd act upon a child under 16, according to South Carolina court records.

WOMAN ADDED TO FBI'S TEN MOST WANTED LIST ARRESTED HOURS LATER AFTER TIPS POURED IN FROM FLORIDA: PATEL

Additional charges were filed in March 2005, but Hiers failed to appear in court. The case has remained unresolved ever since.

The U.S. Marshals Service placed Hiers on its 15 Most Wanted list in June 2005, identifying him as one of the agency's highest-priority fugitives.

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"Dan Hiers was in a position of public trust, but he betrayed that trust in the worst possible way," U.S. Marshals Director Gadyaces S. Serralta said in a statement. "Placing him on our 15 Most Wanted list made his capture a priority for this agency. His return to South Carolina is both significant and rewarding, and we thank our domestic and international partners for their tireless persistence in bringing this fugitive to justice."

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A Marshals Service wanted poster described Hiers as "armed and dangerous" and noted he was a former police officer with 11 years of law enforcement experience who was trained in police tactics and martial arts.

The poster also said Hiers had allegedly stated he would not go to prison and might force an armed confrontation.

'AMERICA'S MOST WANTED' FUGITIVE CAPTURED ON SAILBOAT OFF NJ COAST AFTER 20 YEARS ON THE RUN

The Marshals Service said the operation to return Hiers involved China's Ministry of Public Security, the State Department's Diplomatic Security Service, the Justice Department's Office of International Affairs and the FBI.

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Goose Creek police said Hiers' return marks the end of a decades-long effort to bring him back to South Carolina.

"The extradition of Dan Hiers means that justice can finally be served for the lives he destroyed," the Goose Creek Police Department said in a statement. "We are deeply appreciative of the U.S. Marshals Service for never wavering in its efforts to bring this fugitive back to the United States, and for keeping us updated over these long years of waiting."

GOT A TIP?

"We also thank the State Department, Justice Department, and the FBI for their assistance," the department added. "We knew that there was a possibility Mr. Hiers would never be brought back to the U.S. — the fact that he has is a credit to the United States' commitment to justice."

The international operation also drew praise from the State Department's Diplomatic Security Service, which helped coordinate Hiers' return to the United States.

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"The Diplomatic Security Service was proud to stand alongside the U.S. Marshals Service and our Chinese law enforcement counterparts to ensure Dan Hiers finally answers for his crimes," Nicholas Collura, principal deputy assistant secretary for diplomatic security and director of the Diplomatic Security Service, said in a statement.

Richardson also praised the federal agencies involved in securing Hiers' return from China, saying their "extraordinary collaboration ensured that a wanted fugitive who attempted to evade justice by fleeing overseas has been returned to face the criminal justice system."

The Hiers case was featured multiple times on "America's Most Wanted" and "The Hunt with John Walsh" as investigators searched for him over the past two decades.

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It was not immediately clear when Hiers would make his first court appearance in South Carolina.

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Fox News Digital has reached out to the U.S. Marshals Service, Goose Creek Police Department and the Charleston Police Department for additional information about Hiers' return to South Carolina and the status of the pending criminal cases.

Best Amazon weekend deals: Up to 79% off air conditioners, polos, tower fans and more

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:36:12 -0400

Amazon's weekend deals are packed with discounts on everything from back-to-school essentials to late-summer must-haves. Save up to 79% on portable air conditioners, lightweight pajama sets, Carhartt T-shirts and more, with prices starting at just $14. Some of our favorite picks have dropped to their lowest prices in months, making them worth grabbing before they sell out.

Trending Amazon weekend deals

Mesh beach bag: $8.99 (55% off)
Skechers men's Vigor 2.0 memory foam sneakers: $51.20 (42% off)
adidas Defender backpack: $34.80 (40% off)
Folding wagon cart: $39.98 (33% off)
Levoit tower fan: $54.93 (27% off)
Bissell PowerClean FurGuard stick vacuum: $229.99 (23% off)
Apple AirTag (2nd Generation), 4-pack: $89 (10% off)

Deals on FOX readers' favorite picks

These are the products FOX readers can't stop buying.

Wireless sports bra: $8.49 (79% off)

At 79% off, this wireless sports bra ranks as one of Amazon's best apparel deals of the year, so far, and it's also a FOX News reader favorite. The stretchy fabric gives you a barely-there feel, while wider straps deliver comfortable support.

Mini chainsaw: $29.99 (40% off)

Original price: $49.99

Trim branches and tackle light yard work with this cordless mini chainsaw. It cuts through branches up to 6 inches thick and comes with two batteries, extra chains, safety gear and maintenance tools, so you can get started right away.

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Stay comfortable on warm nights with this short-sleeve pajama set. The button-up top looks more polished than a standard sleep tee, while the matching shorts feature a stretchy fabric designed for lounging. More than 1,000 Amazon shoppers bought a set this month, and it's a sleepwear pick our team also recommends.

Levi's men's 505 regular fit jeans: $49.99 (33% off)

Original price: $74.95

Stock up on Levi's 505 jeans while select washes are discounted up to 65%. The classic fit provides room in the thigh and a straight cut past the ankle. Pair them with T-shirts, button-downs and more year-round.

OXO Brew 9-cup coffee maker: $150 (40% off)

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Skip the coffee shop and brew at home with OXO's top-rated drip coffee maker. It's designed to brew at an ideal temperature and extraction time for a balanced cup, while the nine-cup capacity makes it a practical choice for households with multiple coffee drinkers.

Best Amazon home deals

Refresh your home with discounted upgrades on mattress toppers, air conditioners and more.

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Keep larger rooms cool with this 14,000-BTU portable air conditioner, designed for spaces up to 700 square feet. Built-in wheels make it easy to move between rooms, while app, voice and remote controls let you adjust the settings with ease. A 72-hour evaporation system helps reduce the need for frequent draining.

Niagara Sleep mattress topper: $39.99 (43% off)

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Give your bed a softer feel with this plush mattress topper. The cushioned design adds an extra layer of comfort to firmer beds, while deep pockets fit mattresses up to 20 inches thick. It’s also machine-washable for easier care and maintenance.

iRobot Roomba robot vacuum and mop: $169 (47% off)

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Take one chore off your to-do list with this iRobot Roomba vacuum and mop. The two-in-one design vacuums and mops in a single pass, while smart navigation helps it clean efficiently around your home. Its slim profile also allows it to reach beneath couches, beds and other furniture.

Air purifier: $99.99 (47% off)

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Designed for whole-home use, this air purifier covers rooms up to 2,600 square feet. Its washable filter helps reduce maintenance, while the built-in display monitors air quality in real time and automatically adjusts settings as needed.

Best Amazon outdoor deals

Head outside more this summer with deals on beach and outdoor gear.

Extra-large beach blanket: $18.97 (35% off)

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Stretch out in comfort with this extra-large beach blanket that has room for the whole family. The sand- and water-resistant material helps keep everyone dry and comfortable, and then packs into its attached storage for easy carrying when it's time to head home.

10-foot solar lighted umbrella: $44.99 (57% off)

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Light up your patio while adding shade with this solar-powered umbrella. LED lights line the underside of the canopy and provide up to 7 hours of illumination on a full charge.

Solar bug zapper: $65.99 (34% off)

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This solar-powered bug zapper lets you spend more time outdoors and less time swatting pests. It attracts mosquitoes, flies and moths with a blue light before eliminating them on contact. The waterproof design is ideal for patios, decks and backyards.

Best Amazon kitchen deals

Refresh your kitchen for summer with discounts on countertop favorites and prep gear.

Temp Pro digital meat thermometer: $8.98 (55% off)

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Shocking mid-flight brawl erupts after takeoff, sending flight back to airport

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:58:20 -0400

A flight was forced to return to the airport after a passenger brawl erupted on board.

The disturbing incident took place earlier this week on a flight from Tenerife, in the Canary Islands, en route to Liverpool, United Kingdom, the BBC and other outlets reported.

Approximately 10 passengers were involved in the brawl, which broke out on an easyJet flight soon after the flight departed, the outlet noted.

WHY A BLOWN-OUT PLANE WINDOW NEARLY SUCKED A PASSENGER OUTSIDE AT 16,000 FEET

Police met the 186-passenger aircraft upon its return, and the flight later continued to Liverpool.

An easyJet spokesperson confirmed the incident to Fox News Digital.

The official said the aircraft "returned to Tenerife South Airport after takeoff due to a group of passengers on board behaving disruptively."

The person added, "The flight then continued onto its final destination."

DELTA FLIGHT FORCED TO DIVERT AFTER PASSENGER GOES INTO LABOR AND DELIVERS BABY MIDAIR

The official added that easyJet's cabin and ground crews are trained to quickly assess and respond to on board disruptions to prevent passenger safety from being compromised.

"We take these incidents very seriously and do not tolerate disruptive behavior toward our staff," the spokesperson added.

"The safety and well-being of customers and crew is always our highest priority."

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Commenters on an aviation-focused Reddit forum criticized the passengers for brawling aboard the flight.

"Of all the places, these people decide to fight inside the plane and during the flight," one person said.

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Brits also poked fun at the flight's destination in Liverpool.

"Of course, it was a flight to the U.K.," a Reddit user said.

"Can’t be the Liverpool lads," another person said sarcastically.

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The easyJet incident is the latest in a string of recent passenger disruptions aboard airplanes.

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Fox News Digital previously covered another case of disruptive behavior aboard an aircraft when a passenger allegedly yanked open an emergency exit during a lengthy tarmac delay.

Trump allies notch redistricting win as judges find no 'smoking gun' to scrap red state map

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:42:17 -0400

A redrawn Tennessee congressional map expected to give Republicans a 9-0 advantage in congressional seats will remain in place for the state's Aug. 6 primary, handing President Donald Trump and his allies another victory as they work to preserve the GOP's House majority ahead of the midterm elections.

A three-judge panel on Thursday denied a request for a preliminary injunction filed by a group of Black Tennessee voters and civil rights organizations, who argued the map intentionally sought to weaken the power of Black voters.

The lawsuit stems from Tennessee lawmakers redrawing the state's congressional map during a special session in May after the Supreme Court's ruling in Louisiana v. Callais, which made it harder to challenge redistricting plans on racial discrimination grounds. The new map split Memphis and Shelby County into three congressional districts, effectively dismantling Tennessee's only majority-Black district. Republican lawmakers said the goal was to create a map that favored Republicans in all nine congressional districts and help preserve the GOP's majority in the U.S. House of Representatives.

TENNESSEE PASSES NEW CONGRESSIONAL MAP LIKELY TO FLIP FINAL DEM SEAT AS PROTESTS ERUPT INSIDE CAPITOL

The judges — two Trump-appointed judges and one appointed by President Barack Obama — concluded the evidence pointed to partisan politics as the driving force behind the redistricting.

"At bottom, Plaintiffs won't succeed on their vote-dilution claim because they haven't presented meaningful evidence that race — not politics — motivated Tennessee's May 2026 map," the judges wrote.

The judges contrasted the case with the Supreme Court's 2017 decision in Cooper v. Harris, where the High Court ruled that there was direct evidence that race influenced the redistricting process.

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

"Plaintiffs' evidence is a far cry from the 'smoking gun' direct evidence in Cooper v. Harris."

As evidence, the plaintiffs pointed to the map itself, which eliminates the state's only majority-minority district; lawmakers' use of census data containing racial demographics; the unusual timing of the mid-decade redistricting; Tennessee's history of racial discrimination; and affidavits from Black Memphis voters who said the new map diluted their voting strength.

"Plaintiffs present no direct evidence, weak circumstantial evidence, and no path for Tennessee to accomplish its political aims without producing the same effect," the judges wrote.

WHERE TRUMP, GOP VS DEMOCRATS REDISTRICTING BATTLE HEADS NEXT IN WAKE OF KEY COURT RULINGS

Amber Sherman, a plaintiff in the lawsuit and an affected voter, called the panel's rejection of the preliminary injunction "painful."

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"The decisions by this court continue to further the disenfranchisement of Black voters in Memphis," Sherman said in a statement. "We deserve the same opportunity to shape our future as anyone else. When our voting power is diluted, our neighborhoods have a harder time making their voices heard on the issues that shape our daily lives."

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While the preliminary injunction was denied, the lawsuit remains ongoing.

Since Trump began urging GOP-led states to pursue mid-decade redistricting, at least eight states have adopted new congressional maps, with Republicans hoping to gain seats in Texas, Florida, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Alabama, Louisiana and Tennessee. Democrats have responded with redistricting efforts in California, Utah and Virginia, although Virginia's new map was later struck down by the state's Supreme Court.

Rep Burchett unmasks 'deep state' plot to hide UFO truth after two-hour Pentagon meeting

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:36:27 -0400

Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., disclosed new details about his high-level push for UFO transparency, arguing that unelected bureaucrats are defying public calls for full disclosure.

Speaking on the "Planet Tyrus" podcast, the Tennessee lawmaker recounted his ongoing battle for transparency and warned that Washington’s culture of secrecy undermines public trust.

"I had a meeting at the Pentagon this week on the issue, a very high-level [meeting]. I’m not at liberty to say who was there and what was, but I was there over two hours if that tells you anything," Burchett said.

TIM BURCHETT, UFO WHISTLEBLOWER RECOUNT OMINOUS GOVERNMENT WARNINGS AFTER DEMANDING UFO TRANSPARENCY

"And the disclosure is real. And the problem we’re having right now is the deep state is blocking a lot of this," he added.

Burchett, who has previously spoken about reviewing classified photos and videos, blamed unelected defense officials for stonewalling congressional oversight. He noted that staffers have claimed executive leadership is kept in the dark.

"I'm in a security hearing, and a little punk with a man bun tells me that the president's on a need-to-know basis. Now, what world am I living in?" Burchett said.

"You got power, you got control, you've got arrogance. And really those are the things that run Washington, D.C. And you throw in a little corruption," he added.

LONG-HIDDEN UFO INFORMATION AT CENTER OF TRUMP PUSH TO FREE FORMER OFFICIALS

Burchett told Tyrus he had spoken to pilots and service members who witnessed unidentified objects but intentionally destroyed footage to avoid professional retaliation. He added that those who reported such encounters underwent an eight-hour debriefing that became part of their personnel record.

FBI LEADING PUSH TO UNCOVER TRUTH ABOUT MYSTERY OBJECTS NEAR US NUCLEAR FACILITIES, FILMMAKER SAYS

"They had psych evaluations because of it. And they would, they could get pulled from the flight line," he said. "And that's just wrong, man. That's a stigmatizing of anybody. And also it's a cover-up of what the heck's going on. And government does not have the right to decide what I can and cannot handle."

Earlier this month, the administration released its fourth batch of declassified unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) records. The documents include military infrared videos and details about a 2015 unidentified object reported near the nation's primary nuclear weapons assembly facility.

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The release is part of a continued push to expand public access to UAP records while maintaining necessary redactions to protect sensitive military details. In February, Trump posted about his directive to agencies to begin the disclosure process for information related to UAPs and extraterrestrial life.

Trump wrote on Truth Social: "Based on the tremendous interest shown, I will be directing the Secretary of War, and other relevant Departments and Agencies, to begin the process of identifying and releasing Government files related to alien and extraterrestrial life, unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), and unidentified flying objects (UFOs), and any and all other information connected to these highly complex, but extremely interesting and important, matters. GOD BLESS AMERICA!"

White House Correspondents' Association president previews upcoming dinner, 'not gonna be intimidated'

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:30:51 -0400

White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) President and CBS News correspondent Weijia Jiang previewed on Thursday what to expect from the rescheduled White House Correspondents' Dinner after an armed suspect stormed the April event.

"I don’t want images of my colleagues hiding under a table to be the last images from this year, of all years," Jiang told People magazine.

She added, "I want us to stand together and to show that we are not gonna be intimidated — that we are going to come back stronger, and we are going to recognize all the people who have done such hard work."

WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS' ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT ANNOUNCES EVENT BEING RESCHEDULED AFTER SHOOTING

Since then, Jiang described several security measures taken ahead of Friday's dinner in partnership with the Secret Service and a private security firm hired by the WHCA. These measures include moving the location from the Washington Hilton to the Waldorf Astoria ballroom, shrinking the guest list from 2600 attendees to approximately 680 and allowing only one access point through a private entrance.

"I do feel very good about the measures that we’ve taken and really thought through," Jiang said.

Despite the tight schedule to put together a new dinner, Jiang emphasized the importance of celebrating the press during America's 250th anniversary.

TRUMP PRAISES PRESS AFTER WHCD SHOOTING, SAYS UNITY AT DINNER WAS 'BEAUTIFUL'

"Maybe if it wasn’t this year, 2026, it would’ve been easier just to say, ‘Let’s just wait until next year’s dinner,’" Jiang said. "But especially at that time leading up to July 4th, all the country was talking about, all Washington was talking about, was America 250. And the First Amendment is such an important part of that fabric that this year of all years, we have to show the importance of recognizing those freedoms in the First Amendment."

The dinner is largely expected to feature the same speakers and performers scheduled for the original event, such as mentalist Oz Pearlman and President Donald Trump, marking his first time attending the dinner as president.

In addition to honoring journalists and scholarship recipients, the WHCA will award the Secret Service member who survived the April shooting the service award for his efforts. Jiang revealed that the original Washington Hilton staff will also be honored at the dinner.

Though Trump is expected to appear, not all the members of his administration will make a reappearance. First lady Melania Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio will not be there due to prior commitments.

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Trump's appearance at the White House Correspondents' Dinner has drawn backlash from journalists who demanded that WHCA members use their position to "speak truth to power" against the president.

Jiang emphasized that the dinner would be an effort to "normalize relations" between the Trump administration and journalists rather than exacerbate tensions.

"The Correspondents’ Dinner is our most visible event, but we do so much all year round," Jiang said. "We’ve really been able to course correct, because there was so much friction last year between our association and the administration. And my goal coming back was just to normalize relations so that we could find compromises so that we could work together."

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The White House Correspondents' Dinner will take place on Friday.

‘Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ set decorator slain, husband found dead in family already scarred by home killing

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:28:55 -0400

A new mother who worked on "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" TV show was found murdered inside her home in Queens, New York, in an apparent murder-suicide, and reports show she married into a family with a violent past.

The NYPD confirmed to Fox News Digital that 34-year-old Mary Golding was pronounced dead on scene after police discovered her with a stab wound in her back just after midnight Tuesday morning.

According to IMDb, Golding was a set decorator who worked on numerous TV shows, including "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel."

GILGO BEACH SERIAL KILLER REX HEUERMANN KEPT 'DEXTER'-STYLE KILL ROOM BUT WASN'T AS SMART AS HE THOUGHT: DA

Golding also worked on set design for "Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer," "Goosebumps," "Mr. and Mrs. Smith," and "Hawkeye," among several other shows.

The victim appears to have attended New York University, according to her Facebook profile.

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Following their discovery of Golding's body, investigators made another gruesome find inside Astoria Park.

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The body of Golding's husband was seen hanging from a tree in what appears to be a possible murder-suicide, according to the New York Post.

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Sources told the Post that Golding's husband, Joseph Azzaretto, 33, confessed to the killing over the phone when he made calls to one of his wife's friends and a family member.

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The friend, who was not named, found the young mother dead inside the home and found the couple's baby nearby in the home.

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Prior to the recent killing, Azzaretto's brother, Nicholas, was accused of shooting and killing their father, Frank Azzaretto, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania.

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He was reportedly shot in the chest right in front of his wife during a family dispute inside the couple's home in February 2020, the Post reported.

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Nicholas Azzaretto pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in November 2021 and was sentenced to 10 years probation, and two years of electronic monitoring, according to the outlet.

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Fox News Digital has reached out to Amazon, which streams "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel."

Abdul El-Sayed scores Sen Tina Smith's endorsement in Democratic primary that exposes party divide

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:28:29 -0400

Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn., has endorsed Democratic Michigan U.S. Senate primary candidate Abdul El-Sayed, describing him as "a fighter."

El-Sayed expressed his gratitude Thursday for the senator's backing.

"Senator Tina Smith has been a fighter for working people in the US Senate," he said in a statement. "She’s fought for and delivered on an economy that works for all of us. I hope to build on her leadership on women’s health and reproductive rights and access which has paved the way for the future I want for my daughters and every American. I’m deeply grateful for her support."

TOP DEM HOPEFUL FLIPS SCRIPT AFTER YEARS IN SOCIALIST ORBIT WITH PUZZLING CLAIM

Sens. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., are some of the figures who have endorsed El-Sayed.

"In all due respect to Haley Stevens, everybody knows that this is not an election between her and Abdul," Sanders said during an event last week in support of El-Sayed. "This is an election between Abdul and the billionaire class. That is what this election is about."

The Senate hopeful is running against U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, D-Mich., in the Aug. 4 Democratic primary contest.

WARREN DEFIES SCHUMER AS DEM CIVIL WAR EXPLODES OVER MUST-WIN SENATE RACE

Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., who announced last year that he would not seek re-election, is supporting Stevens to succeed him in the Senate seat.

"Over the last eighteen years, while serving the people of Michigan, I have been surrounded by many extremely talented and dedicated partners who work tirelessly for our state. Haley Stevens has been that partner in Congress," Peters wrote in a statement. "Haley Stevens will be ready on day 1 to fight for Michigan, which is why I am excited to announce I am all in for Haley Stevens."

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., is also among those backing Stevens.

DEMOCRATS' CIVIL WAR HEADS TO MICHIGAN WHERE PROGRESSIVES FACE BIGGEST TEST YET IN HIGH-STAKES SENATE SHOWDOWN

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Former Rep. Mike Rogers, who is backed by President Donald Trump, does not face any competition heading into the Michigan Republican U.S. Senate primary.

Trump says Iran will pay — what it takes to end the war remains unclear

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:21:04 -0400

Nearly five months after launching a sweeping campaign against Iran’s nuclear, missile, naval and proxy capabilities, the Trump administration is now fighting to reopen the Strait of Hormuz while negotiations have yet to produce a permanent settlement.

The administration says its renewed strikes have a clear immediate objective: "making Iran pay." Less clear is what Iran must do to end the strikes — or what conditions would allow the U.S. to step back from a growing military commitment in the region.

President Donald Trump has threatened to expand the campaign to Iran’s nuclear sites, bridges, power plants and other infrastructure.

ARMY IDS 2 VICTIMS KILLED IN JORDAN AIR BASE ATTACK; TRUMP: IRAN WILL PAY 'MANY TIMES OVER'

In response to questioning on the end goals in Iran, a U.S. official said: "Right now, the President is focused on making Iran pay for their violations of the MOU and their continued acts of terrorism in the Strait of Hormuz," referring to the memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States.

"In addition, the president will make Iran pay for the recent deaths of U.S. soldiers," the official said.

"These devastating blows will continue until the president deems otherwise, but talks between our countries are continuing," the official said. "President Trump has all of the cards and all options at his disposal, and Iran can never possess a nuclear weapon."

The response defined the immediate campaign as punishment for Iran’s actions but did not identify any condition Tehran could meet to halt the strikes beyond Trump deciding that the punishment had been sufficient. Follow-up questioning by Fox News Digital went unanswered.

STEVE FORBES URGES TRUMP TO KEEP THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ OPEN AT ALL COSTS

When Trump launched its military Operation Epic Fury mission on February 28, the White House laid out four sweeping objectives: preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, destroying its ballistic missiles and production capacity, annihilating its navy and severing its support for terrorist proxies.

The administration declared those military objectives achieved in April. But Iran retained enough capability to close the Strait of Hormuz, attack commercial shipping and target U.S. forces and allies across the region.

The administration’s immediate focus is now the strait.

U.S. Central Command said Thursday that its latest strikes targeted Iranian maritime capabilities, coastal surveillance sites, air defenses and missile and drone facilities to degrade Iran’s ability to attack commercial vessels.

TRUMP SEEKS $672M TO STOP IRANIAN NUKES AS NEGOTIATORS WEIGH FATE OF URANIUM STOCKPILE

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has framed the current campaign as an effort to prevent Iran from establishing a "dangerous precedent" by controlling an international waterway, while maintaining that Washington remains open to diplomacy. He said Iran must stop attacking commercial ships and reopen the strait before the United States changes its behavior.

"Their behavior has to change in order for ours to change," Rubio said Sunday.

Yet recent strikes have expanded beyond Iran's maritime capabilities to include bridges and other infrastructure as Trump continues threatening nuclear facilities, raising new questions about how the widening target set fits into the administration's broader strategy.

Meanwhile, the final nuclear agreement envisioned under the June memorandum of understanding has not materialized, even as the White House says talks between Washington and Iran are continuing. The memorandum had envisioned an agreement within 60 days, but renewed fighting has left its timing and prospects uncertain.

Trump has continued threatening Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, including the deeply buried Pickaxe Mountain facility. But he has also appeared to soften one of the administration’s original demands, saying in June that Iran could retain some ballistic missiles in proportion to neighboring countries.

The administration has not clarified whether the original missile objective was achieved, relaxed as part of negotiations or remains part of a future settlement, nor whether ending Iran’s support for proxies remains a condition for victory.

Publicly, the renewed campaign has a clear immediate military task — protecting shipping and preventing Iran from asserting control over Hormuz — but the connection between that mission, the stalled nuclear process and Trump’s threats to widen the war remains unexplained.

Eighteen U.S. service members have been killed since the war began, while Secretary of War Pete Hegseth told lawmakers Tuesday that the campaign has cost an estimated $37.5 billion.

Retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Robert Spalding, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute conservative think tank, who served as a senior strategy official in the first Trump White House, argued that the campaign can still be understood around one overriding objective.

"I think the end goal is to prevent them from having a nuclear weapon," Spalding told Fox News Digital. "The goal is very clear. It is: How do you want to go about getting to those goals, and then what are you willing to pay to achieve them? That’s the decision that has to be made."

On Hormuz, Spalding predicted that protecting commercial shipping could require a prolonged U.S. presence, comparing it to Operations Northern and Southern Watch, the yearslong U.S.-led enforcement of no-fly zones over Iraq.

"I don’t think that we’re leaving the area anytime soon," Spalding said.

He described that potential mission as "almost an airborne and seaborne occupation of the strait and the Gulf" intended to preserve the free flow of international shipping.

Such a mission could give the current strikes a defined military purpose, but it would not necessarily resolve the nuclear negotiations, eliminate Iran's remaining leverage or produce a political settlement. It could instead leave American forces enforcing access to Hormuz for an extended period while the broader conflict remains unresolved.

Ali Vaez, Iran project director at the International Crisis Group, said the administration’s changing public emphasis reflects the absence of a coherent strategy connecting its military actions to an achievable end state.

"The administration does not seem to have a clear strategy," Vaez told Fox News Digital. "It’s been a moving goalpost."

Vaez also argued that the conflict has given Iran a potent new form of leverage: the demonstrated ability to choke shipping through Hormuz and impose economic pain on the United States. He described Iran’s control over the strait as a "weapon of mass destruction."

"For more than four decades, the United States has been able to coerce the Iranian regime economically," Vaez said. "The Iranians never had the possibility of retaliating in kind, of putting pressure on the pocketbook of every American citizen."

The U.S. is now trying to inflict enough pain on Iran that it abandons its insistence on controlling the strait, according to Vaez. But Iran views that control as its most valuable remaining source of leverage and one it cannot surrender without weakening its position in any future negotiations, he argued.

"We are in a zero-sum situation," Vaez said. "The U.S. is trying to remove a tool of leverage from the hands of the Iranians that they believe is essential to their survival."

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Although the United States retains overwhelming military superiority, Vaez argued that neither side has been able to deliver a decisive blow. Washington can continue inflicting damage, he said, while Tehran has a greater willingness to absorb it because it views the conflict as a struggle for the regime’s survival.

"There is no military solution to resolving the problem in the strait," Vaez said. "After much more death and destruction, I think both sides would return to the same logic that led them to agree to the MOU in the first place — which is that neither side is really able to deliver a knockout blow to the other."

18 comfortable sneakers for every budget, from under $60 to $200

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 09:57:19 -0400

To help you narrow down your shoe choices, we've lined up options for all types of activities, whether that's running errands, gym workouts or marathon training. Our list includes brands like Skechers, Brooks and New Balance. Shop budget-friendly picks for less than $60, along with splurge-worthy options priced as high as $200.

Latest sneaker deals

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Nike men's Air Max Excee shoes: $77.38 (23% off)
Reebok Club C 85 vintage tennis sneakers: $65.30 (23% off)
Orthofeet Nira orthopedic women's sneakers: $129 (19% off)

Best sneakers under $60

These bargain picks keep your feet supported without digging into your budget.

Calvin Klein Landy sneakers: $43.60 (60% off)
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Hey Dude Sirocco sneakers: $41.53 (36% off)
Skechers men's Energy Afterburn sneakers: $55.99 (35% off)
adidas Men's Daily 4.0 Shoe: $48.75 (25% off)
New Balance Fresh Foam 520 v9 running shoes: $52.49 (25% off)
adidas men's Run Falcon 5: $54 (17% off)

Skechers women's Go Run Consistent shoes: $49.60 (32% off)

Original price: $73

With foam-heavy insoles that absorb shock, Skechers' Go Run shoes are a versatile choice for walking and running. The chunkier design makes them more durable while remaining lightweight enough that they won't bog you down. When mud sticks, just throw them in the washing machine for a quick clean.

Dearfoams women's lace-ups: $37.95 (16% off)

Original price: $44.99

The Dearfoams Mabel lace-ups for women feel more like slippers but work as a long-lasting sneaker you can toss in the washing machine. There's extra arch padding that also helps relieve heel and ankle soreness.

Skechers men's Go Walk Max Effort sneakers: $34.34 (31% off)

Original price: $49.44

Built for all-day wear, these Skechers Go Walk Max Effort sneakers help keep you supported step after step. The lightweight mesh upper and cushioned insole cradle your feet, while the outsole stays flexible no matter your stride.

New Balance women's 608 V5 cross trainer: $59.95 (25% off)

Original price: $79.99

With NDurance rubber outsoles, the New Balance 608 V5 cross trainers can withstand constant wear-and-tear. The midsole also absorbs impact to relieve pressure as you walk, so you won't need to switch shoes throughout the day.

Skechers Viper Court Smash pickleball sneakers: $49.78 (41% off)

Original price: $84

These Skechers Viper Court Smash shoes are great for pickleball enthusiasts looking for an affordable shoe that keeps up with you on the court. They're incredibly light with a responsive foam cushioning that cradles your feet as you run. The relaxed fit design gives ample room for those with wide feet.

Best sneakers under $100

If you need extra stability, these more premium sneakers provide it.

Rockport men's Chranson walking shoes: $78.23 (37% off)
ASICS men's Gel-Venture 11 trail running shoes: $69.95 (22% off)

New Balance women's Arishi V4 running shoes: $74.94 (6% off)

Original price: $79.99

Running shoes don't need to be expensive, and the New Balance Arishi V4 proves it. At $75, you get a pair of responsive, lightweight sneakers with a mesh lining that keeps your feet cool. The no-sew construction adds durability, and the laces are designed to stay put during long runs.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star High Top: $65

Converse's Chuck Taylor All Star sneakers are more than just iconic basketball shoes — they're lightweight, high-tops made from durable canvas. They've changed little since their 1917 release, a testament to their popularity.

Columbia women's Strata Trail sneakers: $78.12 (13% off)

Original price: $90

Columbia women's Strata Trail sneakers are waterproof, with a grippy tread that adds stability on hikes and walks. The seam-sealed construction stops water and mud from seeping in, while the lightweight midsole cushions your feet. At 10% off, grab them now while they're under $100.

Merrell men's Morphlite trail sneakers: $60.76

Although Merrell's Morphlite sneakers are made for trail runners, they're comfortable enough for other activities and come in a mix of bold colors and neutrals. Recycled mesh and leather encase the outer body of the shoe, while sticky rubber outsoles keep you steady on a variety of surfaces.

Skechers men's contour foam slip-in shoes: $66 (13% off)

Original price: $76.50

These Skechers slip-ins are ultra-comfortable, thanks to memory foam and a hands-free design. If you're on your feet from sunup to sundown, the cushioned insole helps manage moisture while cradling your foot. With medium and wide options available, there's a size for everyone.

Nike men's Air Max SC shoes: $71.24 (25% off)

Original price: $95

Nike Air Max SC shoes have a low profile that blends well with any look. The trademark Air cushioning keeps them lightweight so they won't drag you down on walks or runs. A mix of real leather and mesh forms a breathable upper, and thick rubber outsoles add lift and traction.

Brooks men's Launch 11 Neutral running shoes: $84.99 (29% off)

Original price: $119.95

The Brooks Launch 11 running shoes are lightweight, with responsive foam cushioning made for comfort. Plush heel support gives you more control during long runs or the days when you're on your feet nonstop.

Skechers women's Go Walk Flex slip-ins: $69.94

Slip into these Skechers Go Walk Flex shoes in seconds. Extra cushioning and a breathable mesh keep your feet cool all day long, while the machine-washable design makes cleanup simple.

Best sneakers under $200

If you’re a runner, hiker or avid walker, you need shoes that can hold up — and these options deliver.

ECCO men's Soft 10 Premier sneakers: $170
Merrell men's Nova 4 sneakers: $104.99 (25% off)
Vivobarefoot men's Gobi II leather barefoot sneakers: $179.95 (14% off)
Brooks women's Glycerin 22 shoes: $148.50 (10% off)

Keen Targhee 3 Oxford casual hiking shoes: $129.99 (10% off)

Original price: $145

Using hides from Leather Working Group-certified tanneries, Keen makes a premium hiking shoe that still looks professional. A mesh lining adds breathability, while the padded tongue and collar keep your feet comfortable. The rubber outsole powers through muddy environments and rocky surfaces, preventing slippage.

ECCO Byway 2.0 slip-on sneakers: $184.95

The ECCO Byway slip-ons have a sleek, office-ready look, along with a durable rubber outsole that offers a reliable grip. Slip them on hands-free, and the breathable design helps keep your feet cool. Soft cushioning makes them an ideal choice for all-day use.

New Balance FuelCell Delray V2 tennis shoes: $109.94

Packed with padding, the New Balance FuelCell tennis shoes work well for any kind of exercise. The FuelCell foam is designed to reduce foot fatigue, while the cotton lining stops sweat in its tracks. Plus, ankle padding minimizes irritation as you move.

Orthofeet women's hands-free sneakers: $129

Orthofeet's hands-free sneakers work for those dealing with plantar fasciitis, diabetes, arthritis and more. With no laces, they slip on hands-free, making them a smart pick for those with limited mobility. Each pair comes with insoles that provide extra arch support.

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

Arc'teryx men's Norvan LD 4: $170

Arc'teryx's Norvan LD 4s are comfortable and lightweight, yet built tough. The Vibram Megagrip outsole adapts to all your training needs and keeps you steady over a variety of terrain. Waterproof fabric is a bonus in wet conditions.

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.

Jon Bon Jovi abruptly ends Madison Square Garden show after health setback

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:14:21 -0400

Jon Bon Jovi unexpectedly cut his Madison Square Garden concert short Thursday night after appearing to have difficulty getting through the performance – forcing Train frontman Pat Monahan to step in and help carry the show across the finish line.

A representative for Bon Jovi confirmed to Fox News Digital that the concert ended early, saying the singer told fans from the stage he had been battling a health setback.

"Jon Bon Jovi spoke from stage and told fans he has been battling a sinus infection which led to the show's early ending," the representative said in a statement.

ROD STEWART CANCELS LAS VEGAS CONCERT HOURS BEFORE SHOWTIME ON DOCTOR'S ORDERS

"As part of the Bon Jovi residency at Madison Square Garden, Jon has said numerous times that it has been a joy to return to live shows for the band. Updated information will be available shortly."

An insider who attended the concert told Fox News Digital Bon Jovi performed for roughly 90 minutes.

Bon Jovi's previous Madison Square Garden residency shows have lasted over two hours, the insider noted. Thursday's performance wrapped after approximately 15 songs, ending far earlier than fans had come to expect.

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Monahan was in the arena as a fan Thursday night and was not part of the scheduled show, according to the insider.

WATCH: JON BON JOVI ABRUPTLY CUTS MADISON SQUARE GARDEN CONCERT SHORT

The 64-year-old rocker was performing on night eight of his nine-show residency when he stopped the show early. Monahan joined him for "Livin' on a Prayer," taking over the vocals midway through the song.

The shortened performance comes as Bon Jovi continues his comeback following vocal cord surgery in 2022. This is his first major tour since undergoing the career-saving procedure.

Just months before launching the "Forever Tour," Bon Jovi admitted he had been prepared to walk away from music after a vocal cord injury left him fearing he could never perform at the level fans expected.

In October 2025, Bon Jovi recalled realizing something was wrong after a 15-show run.

At the end of the final show, he told his wife he thought it was "pretty good," but his wife disagreed, Bon Jovi recalled on the "How to Fail" podcast.

"I don't think I could do this anymore. I don't know why, but I'm OK with walking away from this because there's no way I'm dragging down the legacy," Bon Jovi said.

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Doctors later discovered the source of the problem.

"I sought out a surgeon who explained to me that one of my vocal cords had literally atrophied," Bon Jovi said. "It was dying."

He underwent surgery and received an implant designed to help his vocal cords close properly.

"If I worked hard, he promised me nothing other than I would be better than I was that night in Nashville," Bon Jovi explained.

Still, the road to recovery wasn't easy.

"Had I known that it was going to be a three-and-a-half-year recovery, I very well might have said thank you, good night," he said. "But the process and the progress was steady enough that I didn't lose faith."

By the time he announced the "Forever Tour," Bon Jovi said he felt "close enough to fully recovered" to return to the stage.

"I'm not doing this for the applause. I'm not doing it for the money. I'm not doing it the fame," he said. "I've had enough of all of it.

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"But I would like to feel that joy and the resonance, even if it were only one last time. I don't think this is anywhere near a farewell tour or anything like that. But if it were, you could trust that these few shows that I've announced are gonna be joy-filled."

The "Forever Tour" began July 7 with a nine-show residency at Madison Square Garden and is scheduled to wrap Sept. 9 at London's Wembley Stadium.

Country music's biggest star Morgan Wallen releases 'Been By Now' as his latest hit song

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:10:13 -0400

Morgan Wallen released his latest single for fans on Friday.

The country music sensation is the unquestioned king of the genre at the moment, and he appears to show no signs of giving up the throne.

Whether the awards shows want to give him the recognition he's earned or not, his success speaks for itself.

MORGAN WALLEN PULLS OFF INCREDIBLE CAREER ACCOMPLISHMENT AS ANOTHER SONG HITS A BILLION STREAMS ON SPOTIFY

He dominates the charts and his concerts sell out wherever he goes. Now, he has new music for fans to enjoy.

Morgan Wallen releases new song "Been By Now."

The country music superstar released "Been By Now" early Friday morning for his millions of fans across the globe.

The song tells the story of a failing relationship that is on the brink of all-out collapse, and as expected, it immediately started going viral.

MORGAN WALLEN AND ELLA LANGLEY'S BALTIMORE PERFORMANCE OF 'I CAN'T LOVE YOU ANYMORE' GOES VIRAL

Give it a listen below, and let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.

Fans definitely enjoyed the song and showed support for Wallen in the comments.

One fan wrote, "I was so ready for this🎉🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤❤ I love his music."

MORGAN WALLEN AND ELLA LANGLEY HOLD THE TOP TWO ALBUM SPOTS IN AMERICA FOR FIRST HALF OF 2026

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A second listener added, "Man has never put out a bad song! Not one! Let that sink in! The greatest country artist of all time!"

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Greatest of all-time might be a bit much at this point, but there's no question the fans love him and his music.

What do you think of Wallen's latest track? Let me know at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.

Trump must close the back door China uses to exploit North American trade

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:02:19 -0400

Review doesn’t mean rubber stamp. The United States shouldn't rush to extend the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement for another 16 years simply because the calendar says it's time.

USMCA has strengthened North American trade and deepened commercial ties with two of the United States’ largest trading partners. But its scheduled review was never intended to be a formality. It was designed to force policymakers to evaluate whether the agreement is delivering on its promises and to correct course when it isn't.

That is exactly what the Trump administration is doing.

TRUMP SHOULD EXPAND HIS BORDER CRACKDOWN. TIMING IS PERFECT TO REIN IN CANADA AND MEXICO

Having just returned from the latest round of negotiations in Mexico, I am encouraged by constructive conversations. Progress has been made. But significant issues remain unresolved. Extending the agreement before addressing them would surrender the United States' greatest source of leverage.

In 2025, Mexico was our nation's largest trading partner, with around $873 billion in goods trade. Yet while trade with the United States has expanded, Mexico has increasingly served as a gateway for steel from countries whose governments distort global markets through subsidies and overcapacity.

Between 2020 and 2024, Mexican steel imports from South Korea, China and Vietnam rose 44%, 59% and 39%, respectively. Overall steel imports into Mexico climbed 45% during that period. Those imports gained preferential access to the North American market despite originating from countries that have long undermined fair competition.

TRUMP JUST EXPANDED HIS TARIFF PLAYBOOK WITH A POWERFUL TRADE WEAPON NO PRESIDENT HAS EVER USED

The consequences are clear in U.S. import data. Imports of Mexican rebar in 2024 were roughly 1,148% above their average level before USMCA. At the same time, demand for steel in the U.S. declined by more than 11 million tons since USMCA was negotiated, yet imports from Mexico remained elevated.

Canada presents a similar challenge.

From 2020 through 2024, Canadian imports of Chinese steel increased approximately 75%. China remains the world's largest source of excess steel capacity, a problem responsible for displacing production, depressing prices and killing manufacturing jobs across the globe. Yet Canada enjoyed privileged access to the U.S. market.

CANADA REPORTEDLY SCRAPS JOINT BRIDGE CELEBRATION WITH US AFTER TRUMP RENEWS TARIFF THREAT

These trends are inconsistent with the spirit of a North American trade agreement intended to strengthen regional manufacturing.

Fortunately, the solutions are straightforward. Canada and Mexico should adopt border measures comparable to the United States’ successful Section 232 steel tariffs to prevent unfairly traded steel from entering North America through alternative routes. Both countries should restrict investment by non-market economies in strategically important industries. USMCA should strengthen steel-related rules of origin and adopt a true "melted and poured" requirement so that steel receiving preferential treatment is genuinely produced in North America, not merely processed here after originating elsewhere. Above all, we cannot allow the hard-won gains in revitalizing American steel manufacturing to be rolled back in ways that export American jobs.

Critics argue that businesses need certainty and that renewing USMCA immediately would provide it. But certainty was never the sole purpose of the agreement's review mechanism. Its architects intentionally built periodic reviews into the agreement to ensure the pact continued serving North American interests.

Nor is there a cliff approaching. Failure to renew this year does not terminate USMCA. The agreement remains in force for years to come unless a country chooses to withdraw, while scheduled reviews provide opportunities to strengthen its provisions.

The review provisions are working exactly as intended.

Negotiations with Mexico are the furthest along, while talks with Canada may intensify after President Trump’s recent deployment of the section 338 tariffs. If the Trump administration secures a strong agreement that meaningfully addresses longstanding concerns with Mexico, it should not hesitate to move forward on a bilateral basis rather than allow the broader USMCA review to become a source of unnecessary delay. Such an agreement could also serve as a blueprint that Canada would be welcome to adopt if and when it is prepared to meet the same standards.

The objective should not be preserving a three-country framework for its own sake, but securing the strongest possible agreement with America’s largest trading partners. If Mexico is prepared to negotiate comprehensive reforms that strengthen North American manufacturing and close the agreement’s most significant loopholes, President Trump should seize that opportunity.

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The United States accounts for roughly 85% of North America's economic output. That market access is enormously valuable, and it should be accompanied by reciprocal commitments to combat unfair trade, strengthen regional supply chains and prevent non-market economies from exploiting loopholes in our trade rules.

North America is strongest when its trade is genuinely fair. The current review offers a rare opportunity to modernize USMCA, close obvious loopholes and ensure the agreement fulfills its original purpose. President Trump is right to resist calls for a premature extension. A stronger agreement is worth the wait.

Roger Goodell floats holding NFL draft in Charlotte and returning for something bigger later

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 12:01:26 -0400

The NFL has become something of a traveling road show, with games played all over the Earth, the draft held throughout the country, and the Super Bowl touring one elite American city after another. And Charlotte may be close to becoming one of the destinations.

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said Thursday evening during a fireside chat hosted by Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper that he believes Charlotte would lend itself to hosting an NFL draft, and he did not dismiss the idea of the city getting a Super Bowl at some point in the future.

NFL OWNERS UNANIMOUSLY VOTE TO BRING SUPER BOWL LXIV TO NASHVILLE'S NEW $2 BILLION STADIUM IN 2030

"...You see the way the downtown's evolving..." Goodell told an audience of Panthers and local dignitaries gathered to celebrate the renewed naming right for Bank of America Stadium and the facility's renovation. "The first [thing] came into my mind: I said to David, 'This is built for a draft.'

"It's the location of Charlotte in general. And I think the way the draft is now, it's close to a million people attended. And they're coming from all over, including internationally. And it's become a global event that I think would be a terrific thing here in this town, with everything that's being built."

The NFL draft is is spoken for over the next two years. Washington D.C. will hold the event in 2027 and Minneapolis has the event for 2028. So if Charlotte is going to compete for the event, the 2029 draft would be the first realistic target.

The draft has been steadily growing as a fan event since the NFL cast aside the indoor versions, which used to be held in a New York City hotel or Radio City Music Hall. The 2017 draft in Philadelphia was the first held outdoors and it had 205,000 in attendance.

That number is dwarfed by this year's event in Pittsburgh that set a new record with 805,000 people in attendance.

But for all its emerging significance, the draft does not compare on scale to the Super Bowl as the NFL's signature road event.

Tepper would love one in Charlotte even if that's not likely to happen soon.

"There'd just be another step in that," Goodell said. "As far as the Super Bowl is concerned, there is no question in that the city keeps growing the way it is. It's really the stadium and the facility here is wonderful, and it's certainly Super Bowl quality.

"The real issue with Super Bowls now is number of hotel rooms, all the hotels, and other facilities, which, every time I come back here, it's completely different than it was when I was here the last time.

"And so, I think that as growth continues, I think, you know, that's probably somewhere down the line in the future."

The next available Super Bowl is in 2031.

A leaked NFL Super Bowl bid specification sheet from the early 2010s required a Super Bowl host city to have hotel rooms equal to at least 35% of the stadium's seating capacity within a 60-minute drive – which equals about 25,000 or so rooms for a typical NFL stadium.

But as the game has grown, the required number of rooms has also grown to an estimated 60,000 to 75,000.

The greater Charlotte area boasts approximately 50,000 hotel rooms but many of those are in outlying areas.

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Tepper remains hopeful.

"It would be great to get into the Super Bowl here. It might be great if we had a Super Bowl here," he said. "We have, I heard we have, we're the center of the east coast, with one of the best transportations, sixth busiest airport in the country.

"And I was mentioning in the way back there, that I had noticed like in Augusta, we have more million-dollar house probably closer to the stadium than any other stadium in the country. And I notice in Augusta, they give those homes up to the extent that we may not have all the luxury hotels.

"In fact, I got Dan Morgan's house for you already."

Dan Morgan is the President of Football Operations and General Manager for the Panthers. And, yes, Tepper was kidding."

Follow Armando Salguero on X: @ArmandoSalguero

This week's best sales: Save up to 85% on HexClad cookware, Shark hair tools and more

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 13:22:30 -0400

Summer is in full swing, and this week's biggest markdowns include deals on some of the season's most popular essentials. Save 85% on Wayfair Basics cooling sheets, snag a rare deal on a top-rated RTIC cooler for beach days and shop even more standout deals below.

Best-selling deals worth shopping this week

From tools to summer travel essentials, these shopper-favorite picks are all on sale.

Wayfair Basics microfiber sheet set (85% off)

Grab these sheets from Wayfair for $20 — their lowest price to date. Made from brushed microfiber, they stay cool in warm weather, warm in cooler temperatures and resist wrinkles for a crisp look.

Anker SOLIX S2000 portable power station (42% off)

Power outages and heat waves are no match for Anker's SOLIX S2000, now $600 off. It can keep a refrigerator running for up to 35 hours and includes USB-C, USB-A, DC car ports and AC outlets.

Kipling Keiko Crossbody Mini Bag (42% off)

This Kipling crossbody bag is the perfect addition to teens' back-to-school lists. It has an internal pocket as well as two external zip pockets. The look is complete with a cute keychain monkey that matches the color of the purse.

Levi's men's 505 Regular Fit jeans (33% off)

Save $41 on these Levi's jeans, designed with a roomy thigh for extra comfort and a classic straight-leg fit that never goes out of style. Choose from dozens of washes and a wide range of sizes.

HexClad Hybrid fry pan set (25% off)

This fry pan has a one-of-a-kind hybrid design that combines the performance of stainless steel, cast iron and nonstick cookware for an option that cooks evenly and cleans quickly. The stay-cool handle also prevents burns. (FOX is an investor in HexClad).

Keurig K-Elite Single-Serve coffee maker (29% off)

Brew a fresh cup of coffee in less than a minute with the Keurig K-Elite. It makes 4- to 12-ounce drinks and includes settings for stronger coffee and iced beverages.

Apple AirPods Pro 3 (20% off)

Apple's 2025-released AirPods Pro 3 build on the features of 2024's AirPods 4 with hearing test capabilities and Live Translation. You'll also get Active Noise Cancellation, Personalized Spatial Audio and up to eight hours of listening time on a single charge.

Deals we love

These standout deals include everything from polos to portable tech.

On Cloudflyer running shoes: $135 (Orig. $170)

Designed with a firmer heel and softer forefoot, these popular On sneakers balance cushioning and support for long runs. The responsive feel helps keep your feet comfortable during long days of running or standing.

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

Trade in an eligible phone and open a new Verizon line to get up to $1,000 off the iPhone 17 Pro. With plans starting at $2.77 per month, it's one of the strongest carrier offers available right now.

Kansas City Steak Company Summer Sizzler: $169.80 (Orig. $374.80)

Stock your freezer before your next cookout with the Kansas City Steak Company Summer Sizzler pack. You'll get eight premium steaks — including filet mignons, ribeyes, sirloins and Kansas City strips — for more than $200 off.

Deals ending soon

These limited-time deals won't last long, so now's the time to shop.

Made In carbon steel griddle set: $199 (Orig. $258)

Cook smash burgers, pancakes and grilled cheese on this carbon steel griddle that's half the weight of cast iron but just as durable. It heats evenly for everything from breakfast to blackened fish, then moves easily from the stovetop to the grill.

Buckle Risto athletic stretch jeans: $52.48 (Orig. $98)

Move comfortably all day in these athletic-fit stretch jeans from Buckle. The flexible fabric gives you room to bend and move without sacrificing the slim look, and today you can save an extra 25%.

Shark SpeedStyle hair dryer: $149.99 (Orig. $219.99)

Dry and style your hair faster with the Shark SpeedStyle hair dryer. The Turbo Concentrator attachment helps create sleek blowouts and smooth, straight styles, while intelligent heat control adjusts the temperature to help reduce heat damage.

Car jump starter: $79.99 (Orig. $109.99)

Keep this portable jump starter in your car for peace of mind on summer road trips. If your battery dies, the built-in boost function provides extra starting power when you need it most. It's designed to operate in temperatures ranging from minus 4 to 140 degrees, making it a reliable addition to your emergency kit.

Beach gear on sale

Shop beach essentials for fun in the sun, from coolers to swim trunks.

RTIC soft cooler bag: $96.75 (Orig. $129)

Keep drinks and snacks cold all day with this RTIC soft cooler. It holds up to 20 cans while remaining easy to carry from the car to the beach. A leakproof zipper and welded seams help keep melted ice contained until you're ready to unpack.

Huckberry Performance lined swim trunk: $62 (Orig. $78)

These Huckberry trunks feature a built-in liner for the comfort and support of athletic shorts. The stretchy, quick-drying fabric transitions easily from the pool to the beach and everything in between.

Sand-resistant beach blanket: $9.99 (Orig. $21.99)

Stretch out on this oversized, sand-resistant beach blanket designed to shake off sand before you pack up for the day. Fill the corner pockets with sand to help keep it in place on windy days, then fold it into the included water bottle-sized carrying pouch for easy transport.

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

Best sales from FOX News Deals-favorite brands

Wayfair: Take up to 80% off patio furniture, outdoor decor and more during the Black Friday in July Sale

Macy's: Get up to 70% off back-to-school clothes, sandals and more

Brilliant Earth: Receive ¼ carat lab diamond studs with a purchase over $1,000 using code STUDS

Nordstrom: Save on premium home, travel and beauty buys during the Anniversary Sale

Brooklinen: Last call clearance items are up to 75% off right now

DSW: Get up to 65% off women's sandals online

Backcountry: Save up to 40% on outdoor and hiking gear from brands like Patagonia, Osprey, and more

Sur La Table: Take up to 50% off cookware, small appliances and more during the Summer Sale

FAQs

What brands are having the best sales this week?

FOX-favorite brands like Amazon, Wayfair and Nordstrom are rolling out midsummer deals on everything from beach gear to outdoor essentials. This week's standout offers include markdowns on an RTIC soft cooler and On running sneakers.

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.

Why the Chicago White Sox moneyline is the sharp betting play against the Houston Astros today

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:48:11 -0400

I had a play last night on the Royals and Tigers game, and to spoil any surprise, it was a loser. I took the Royals at +170 mostly because I felt like the line was way off. I still cashed the under, but I hope anyone who is serious about sports betting takes a look at that article. Despite it being a loss, I loved the play. There was a ton of value on the Royals, who lost 4-3. There are times you need to take shots, and this one rewarded me mentally, because I feel like I at least put myself in the right spot to make money. I'm hoping to actually get the money, physically, in today's Astros and White Sox game.

The Houston Astros are still hanging in there, but the question if they are going to buy, sell, or stand pat in the next week has to be considered. For the season, they are four games under .500, but they are just two games back of the American League West division. That's not exactly the position to be in if you plan to throw in the towel. Their best player, Yordan Alvarez, is having an MVP season, yet another reason to keep pushing and see if they can make the postseason.

They did trade away one of their starters already, but I don't feel like that was a sign of the team trying to give up. I think it was more about their roster and salary than anything. Today, they are putting out Spencer Arrighetti on the mound. For the season, Arrighetti is 7-5 with a 4.34 ERA and a 1.31 WHIP. He has been worse on the road with a 5.52 ERA. He also has allowed eight earned runs in both of his past two road starts. I'm thinking he might be coming out of whatever issues he had in June, though. In May, he had a 0.93 ERA, and in June he had a 9.00 ERA. So far, through three starts, he has allowed eight earned runs in four innings, and two earned runs in 11 innings covering two starts.

The Chicago White Sox were expected to be sellers, but this team has some heart and looks like they are piecing things together. Part of the reason sports are so fun is teams like the White Sox. A team that no one expected anything from this year, and they've turned it around to be in a playoff race. There is still a long way to go, and one injury could derail the whole thing, but you have to feel solid about how they've played and looked if you're a Sox fan.

One of the brightest spots on this roster has been today's starter, Davis Martin. For the season, Martin is 9-5 for the year with a 3.31 ERA and a 1.27 WHIP. Martin has been elite at Guaranteed Rate Field this season with a 1.80 ERA. He has only allowed nine earned runs at home in 45 innings. And, five of those earned runs came in the last start against the Red Sox. Perhaps most impressive is that he has allowed just 33 walks all year, and only 10 have come at home.

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Baseball is a sport in which you usually do have the opportunity to follow the sharps and line movement fairly confidently. There aren't a ton of public bettors loading up on teams. Sharp money tends to move these lines, and the line is moving in favor of the Astros. However, sharps don't always win either. There is also a move where they will bet on one side, just to lower the line and get bigger money on the opposite side. I could see that happening here.

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If you don't understand what that means, no worries. Basically, I think the White Sox are going to win this game. Martin is a better pitcher, in better form, and more reliable as a home starter. Arrighetti is bad on the road, and something has been wrong with him since June. It is possible that sharps saw some good value in the Astros, but now that the line is a lot lower, I think the Sox are the right side and could see money poured into them late. Give me the White Sox on the moneyline.

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For more sports betting information and plays, follow David on X/Twitter: @futureprez2024

LeBron James makes NBA free agency decision, announces plans to sign with 76ers

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:46:49 -0400

LeBron James announced Friday that he will be joining the Philadelphia 76ers next season.

James, 41, is reportedly signing a two-year, $8 million deal, taking a major discount, to join the 76ers, ESPN first reported.

James announced his decision in a post on X where he said he thought he was done at the end of last season and that he had likely played his final game.

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"I thought I was done when the season ended. I wasn't ready to announce it, and I knew I needed some time to really decide, but I was pretty sure I played my last game. I was honest at that last press conference when I said I needed to look at myself and decide if I still love this game," James wrote on X.

"I still truly love this game, and I have more to give."

James called the last few weeks "special," saying he has never before been able to take this much time to think through such an important decision.

"I’ve had an incredible few months with all the people I love trying to figure it all out. This is my last decision. I’m not going for money. I’m not going for family. What am I really playing for at this point? I still want to sacrifice. I still want to work. I still want to grind. I still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning," James wrote.

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The NBA legend said he still wants to sacrifice and work to try to win another NBA title.

"I still want to sacrifice. I still want to work. I still want to grind. I still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning another championship," James said. "I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team and I am so excited to energize a new fan base and start this incredible journey one last time. Thank you LA. Miami I’ll forever love and Northeast Ohio will always home!"

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The 76ers will be the fourth team James has played for in his illustrious career. For Philadelphia, James is the second major star to join the team this offseason, as they acquired Jaylen Brown in a stunning trade with the Boston Celtics earlier this month.

Last season, the 76ers were swept by the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference semifinals, and they hope the additions of James and Brown can propel them to a championship.

While James may not be the force he once was, he still remains a productive player going into his 24th season. In 60 games with the Los Angeles Lakers last season, James averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds per game.

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Romanian F-16 shoots down drone after airspace breach, marking first for NATO ally

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:42:02 -0400

A Romanian F-16 fighter jet shot down a drone that entered the country’s airspace without authorization Friday, marking the first time the NATO member has intercepted and destroyed a drone inside its national airspace, authorities said.

Romanian officials have not yet identified the drone’s origin or purpose. Romania’s army chief said pilots described it as appearing to be a Shahed-type drone, Reuters reported, the Iran-designed attack drone widely used by Russia against Ukraine.

The incident carries direct implications for the U.S. and its NATO allies, as repeated airspace breaches along the alliance’s eastern flank have fueled concerns that Russia’s war in Ukraine could spill across NATO borders. Romania, which borders Ukraine, has reported dozens of drone incursions or debris incidents since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in 2022.

Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu said the interception took place over an unpopulated area in Buzău County.

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"Our borders and our sovereignty are non-negotiable, and our military and NATO air police will continue to monitor the land border, the Danube and the Black Sea, as our military frequently identifies risks," Țoiu told Fox News Digital.

"The impact area and the drone debris are currently being analyzed, but the pattern is consistent with prior confirmed Russian drone flights during the numerous illegal attacks against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure on Romania’s border," she added.

Țoiu said Romania and NATO would continue to defend allied territory.

"NATO works, and we plan to be even stronger with the decisions on air defense and budget allocation from The Hague and Ankara summits," she said. "The path toward increased security is the path toward peace at Romania’s border. We will defend our citizens and we will continue to invest in protecting Romanian and Allied territory."

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Țoiu previously told Fox News Digital July 2 that Russian drones had been detected inside Ukraine roughly 19 miles from Romania’s border, prompting two Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon jets operating from Romania’s 86th Air Base in Fetești to scramble under NATO’s Enhanced Air Policing mission. A Romanian Air Force IAR 330 Puma helicopter was also deployed, she said at the time.

Romanian President Nicușor Dan and Defense Minister Radu Miruță reaffirmed the country’s commitment to protecting its airspace and investing in modern air-defense and anti-drone capabilities, according to Țoiu.

The incident underscores the growing danger along NATO’s eastern flank as Russia continues strikes across Ukraine and Kyiv increasingly targets Russian military and energy infrastructure deeper inside Russia.

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The drone shootdown came as Ukraine reported deadly Russian strikes in the Kyiv region and Slovyansk.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said a rescue operation was underway in the Kyiv region after a Russian missile strike killed six people and wounded dozens. Reuters later reported that Ukrainian officials and industry representatives said the strike killed 10 people and injured close to 100 at a site where a defense industry event was being held.

"There were also casualties in Slovyansk following guided aerial bomb strikes," Zelenskyy said. "Five people were killed. My condolences to their families. Nine others were injured. The Russians damaged ordinary homes, the consulate building, and vehicles."

Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže said Latvia’s honorary consulate building in Slovyansk, in Ukraine’s Donetsk Oblast, was destroyed Friday morning in a Russian attack involving a KAB-250 guided aerial bomb, according to information provided by Ukrainian authorities.

Braže said Latvia’s honorary consul, Oleksandr Pavenko, was not injured, but two consulate staff members were wounded. She informed European Union and NATO foreign ministers and international organizations about the incident, while Latvia summoned Russia’s chargé d’affaires and delivered a note of protest.

"Russia will be held accountable for this and other violations of international law," Latvia’s Foreign Ministry said. "All war crimes committed by Russia must be thoroughly investigated, and those responsible must be brought to justice."

Zelenskyy called the strikes "brutal attacks on civilians" and again pressed Ukraine’s partners for air-defense support.

"Interceptors for Patriot systems are the number one priority," he said.

Ukraine also said its forces had struck one of Russia’s key military enterprises in Kirov, which Zelenskyy said supplies components for Russian aircraft and missile systems used in attacks on Ukrainian cities. Zelenskyy said Ukraine had also hit an oil facility nearly 840 miles away and that operations against Russian logistics supplying drone components, navigation equipment and military gear remained underway. Ukrainian outlet UNN reported that Zelenskyy confirmed the Kirov strike and the long-range strike on the oil facility.

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The Security Council is expected to hold an emergency meeting on Ukraine Monday at 10 a.m., as requested by Ukraine, according to a United Nations schedule viewed by Fox News Digital. The meeting comes after Kyiv has repeatedly urged the international community to respond more forcefully to Russia’s attacks on civilians and infrastructure.

The back-and-forth comes as Kyiv is trying to show battlefield momentum despite continued Russian missile and drone attacks.

Outgoing Ukrainian Commander in Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said Ukraine had recaptured 270 square miles of territory in 2026 and was handing over to his successor "an army that is not only holding the defence but is also on the offensive," Reuters reported Wednesday.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Russian defense ministry but didn't receive a response in time for publication.

Reuters contributed to this report.

Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed accused Trump of inciting terrorism over Whitmer kidnapping plot

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 11:37:33 -0400

Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic candidate for Senate in Michigan, once accused President Donald Trump of inciting terrorism in a 2020 interview, citing a foiled plot to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

"These are terrorists; we have to call them that. We have to recognize that that is what the face of terrorism looks like right now. We have to step up against it," El-Sayed said.

"We gotta ask: why are these people getting radicalized? Well, there must be some radical, extremist cleric out there who may be tweeting up a storm about all the things that they think need to be done, like liberating Michigan."

El-Sayed’s comments come as he wages a tight primary race against Rep. Haley Stevens, D-Mich., with the Aug. 4 primary now less than a month away. His remarks also raise questions about his views on political rhetoric and its connection to violence.

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His comments reference a foiled plan to kidnap Whitmer that first surfaced in 2020.

A group of men associated with anti-government and militia circles, including the Wolverine Watchmen, allegedly planned to kidnap the governor from her vacation home in northern Michigan in an effort to end her COVID-19 restrictions.

The plot was foiled in October by law enforcement before any attempt was ever made.

Notably, The New York Times later reported that four of the 12 people charged in the alleged plot had been government agents or informants, prompting accusations of entrapment.

Although President Donald Trump did not call for any kind of violence against Whitmer, El-Sayed said he believed the president was at least partially responsible, pointing to a tweet Trump had made six months before the discovered plot.

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"LIBERATE MICHIGAN!" Trump wrote in a post on Twitter, the social media platform now known as X. The post was one of a series calling to "liberate" Virginia and Minnesota from COVID-19 restrictions imposed by Democratic governors. According to FBI comments to local media, the plot originated before Trump's post.

El-Sayed called the posts emblematic of a cultural toxicity that had made violence more likely.

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"The idea that people would threaten her safety because she was willing to stand up to keep us all healthy is, to me, the example of what the kind of toxicity that we see out of Donald Trump creates," El-Sayed said.

"And right now, the threat we are seeing is radical, far-right White Supremacy and the terrorists who would undo our society’s basic norms and mores."

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El-Sayed’s campaign did not respond to Fox News Digital's requests for comment on whether his position on Trump's rhetoric had changed in light of The New York Times reporting.

El-Sayed will face off against Stevens in the state’s Aug. 4 primaries.