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Deadly Grand Canyon flooding knocks out critical water line amid race to find missing hikers

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:40:19 -0400

Severe flash flooding knocked out a central water line in the Grand Canyon this weekend, forcing the National Park Service to implement strict water restrictions amid an ongoing race to find missing hikers.

NPS says it will implement stage four water restrictions beginning at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, saying the Saturday flooding caused "extensive damage to infrastructure," including the Transcanyon Waterline that supplies the park with water. Park officials say one person was killed and 15 may be missing after the flooding, though they say that is an estimate.

Park officials confirmed they recovered the body of a 46-year-old man from the Colorado River on Sunday night. He has not been publicly identified.

MISSING GRAND CANYON HIKER, 83, RESCUED AFTER GETTING SEPARATED FROM COMPANION

NPS issued a request for the public to provide information on the 15 other people who are believed to be missing.

"The National Park Service is asking anyone who knows of hikers or backpackers who were in the inner canyon along the Bright Angel Creek corridor on August 29, as well as anyone who had a campground reservation in the affected corridor, to provide information to the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch," NPS said in a statement.

AMERICAN HIKER VANISHES ON TROPICAL TREK AS FLASH FLOODS, MUDSLIDES TURN JUNGLE GETAWAY INTO DESPERATE SEARCH

Park officials say they have so far evacuated at least 62 people since the Saturday flooding.

The stage 4 water restrictions affecting the rest of the park include forced dry camping with no access to water spigots, the temporary closure of overnight lodgings, and a strict no-fire rule for the South Rim and inner canyon areas.

ARMY BLACK HAWKS AIRLIFT 200-PLUS STRANDED CAMPERS AS MISSOURI FLOODS TRIGGER MORE 350 RESCUES

The flooding struck Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area on Aug. 29, according to NPS, which added that nearly all footbridges spanning Bright Angel Creek were destroyed.

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs said state emergency officials are coordinating with federal and local authorities as the search continues.

EXPERTS ZERO IN ON LIKELY CAUSE OF DEADLY NEPAL MUDSLIDE, WITH MORE THAN 1,400 MISSING

"My heart is with the families and loved ones of every person unaccounted for after the flash flooding at the Grand Canyon," Hobbs wrote on X. "DEMA is coordinating with NPS and Coconino County Emergency Management to support search and recovery efforts."

Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes called the flash flooding "devastating" and thanked first responders for searching for those still unaccounted for and evacuating others from the affected area.

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"The physical damage includes a historic lodge near the bottom of the site and untold environmental upheaval," Fontes said in a statement. "I send my prayers to the community as the search for those unaccounted for continues."

Mercedes Moné captures AEW Women's World Championship for the first time at All In

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:33:00 -0400

Three years ago, Mercedes Moné was spotted in the crowd at All In keeping a close eye on the women’s division as she mulled whether she would make the jump to All Elite Wrestling (AEW).

Months later, Moné finally made her debut and took the AEW women’s division by storm. She later defeated Willow Nightingale for the TBS Championship and started a reign that would last more than 500 days – that was until Nightingale defeated her on Dec. 31, 2025. It was the pretext for the feud that would begin when Nightingale captured the AEW Women’s World Championship and Moné won the Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament.

COMPLETE PRO WRESTLING COVERAGE ON OUTKICK

On Sunday, Moné gave her blood, sweat and tears to finally win the AEW Women’s World Championship. She took full advantage of Nightingale’s broken hand, putting her in the Money Maker to make her pass out.

Moné was bloodied to start the match as Nightingale nailed her in the nose.

Nightingale tried to smile through the pain. She took out Moné with a suplex onto the mat outside the ring. She also hit a brutal pounce on Moné that sent her opponent into the referee. Both women used the knockdown to their advantage. Nightingale whipped the leather part of the belt against Moné.

It was a lot for Moné to overcome even as Nightingale dealt with the hand injury. At the end of the match, Nightingale completely ran out of gas and the referee called for the bell.

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Moné will begin her first reign as AEW women’s world champion, adding to her impressive resume in AEW. She’s been the aforementioned TBS champion and won the Owen Hart Foundation Women’s Tournament twice.

She might already have her first challenger.

High above Wembley Stadium, Thekla was watching closely. Thekla made her return to AEW programming earlier in the show. She lost the AEW Women’s World Championship to Nightingale at Redemption and hadn’t been seen until Sunday.

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All Out is about a month away and it could very well mean that Moné and Thekla are lining up for an epic match in September.

Will Ospreay ascends to top of AEW with world championship victory at All In over Kenny Omega

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:33:26 -0400

Will Ospreay entered Wembley Stadium coming face-to-face with the ghosts of his past. He walked through the backstage area giving head nods to the likes of Zack Sabre Jr., Ricochet, Swerve Strickland and others as he got ready to go down the ramp.

He gave his wife, Alex Windsor, a good-luck kiss and then met with Jon Moxley, who handed him the Union Jack before his music hit.

COMPLETE PRO WRESTLING COVERAGE ON OUTKICK

Ospreay had the momentum of his home country being behind him as he challenged Kenny Omega for the AEW World Championship at All In. It was the biggest stage of the year for the biggest match of Ospreay’s career. The history between the two goes back to their epic bouts in New Japan Pro-Wrestling.

Omega looked to end the match early. He bloodied Ospreay with a TV monitor and then powerbombed him through a table. Ospreay powered through the blood and nailed Omega with a nasty Hidden Blade, opening up Omega.

Giving up was not an option for either competitor. Even as the referee was counting Omega out, he was trying to get him to stop. Ospreay hit another Hidden Blade but couldn’t get the win. He pulled out a Styles Clash on Omega – and still couldn’t get the pin.

The two went blow-for-blow before Omega hit a V Trigger and a Tiger Driver ’91. A second V Trigger led to Omega’s One-Winged Angel attempt. Omega hit it cleanly and tried to pin Ospreay for the win. Ospreay kicked out.

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The AEW World Championship meant everything to Omega and Ospreay. Omega had one last V Trigger in him, but couldn’t get Ospreay to stay down. As he went for another One-Winged Angel, Ospreay countered and hit his own Tiger Driver on Omega.

The crowd that was watching intently broke out "This is awesome!" chants. The two men slowly got back to their feet. Ospreay couldn’t muster up one punch and Omega couldn’t take advantage right away.

Omega tried one more V Trigger before Omega caught him. Ospreay hit Omega’s finisher but only got a one count. Ospreay hit a Stormbreaker and got to one again. What would it take to put any of these men away?

Through bloodied strands of hair, Ospreay hit Omega with one more Hidden Blade. He pinned Omega for the win.

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Emotions hit Ospreay in full force as he was declared the champion. He became the first Englishman to win a world championship in Britain and started his reign as the AEW world champion.

AEW star Darby Allin crashes through stage with high-risk move, captures TNT Championship at All In

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:32:14 -0400

All Elite Wrestling (AEW) All In became a family affair during an insane falls count anywhere match between Kevin Knight and Darby Allin with the TNT Championship on the line.

It was supposed to be a singles match. Knight came after Allin hot, hitting the challenger with the belt to start the bout. The match got more chaotic from there.

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Don Callis Family members Brian Cage and Jake Doyle offered their support of Knight, beating down Allin and trying to give Knight the upper hand. Steve Borden entered the fray and lent his support to Allin in the midst of the match. But Cage and Doyle quickly jumped on Borden and continued to work on Allin.

Moments later, the stadium lights turned off. Appearing at the top of the entrance ramp was "The Icon" Sting. The legendary pro wrestler brought his bat and inflicted pain on Cage and Doyle. Borden, Sting’s son, went to the top of a ladder and laid out the two intruders. As the fighting went back up the ramp, Knight was trying to follow them. Instead, Allin chased him down.

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Allin had Knight in his crosshairs. After a body slam at the top of the ramp, Allin climbed up a pillar that was a part of the stage. He fell backward and hit a Coffin Drop on Knight. The two crashed through part of the stage.

As AEW medical personnel strapped Knight to a gurney, Allin got his revenge from Double or Nothing. He leaped off the stage and onto a helpless Knight. Allin pinned Knight and picked up the win.

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It is Allin’s third reign as TNT champion. He last held the title from Jan. 4, 2023, to Feb. 1, 2023, losing the belt to Samoa Joe.

Kazuchika Okada wins AEW International Championship, fends off Kyle Fletcher and Konosuke Takeshita at All In

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:30:57 -0400

Kyle Fletcher made his return to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) programming at Double or Nothing after Konosuke Takeshita defeated Kazuchika Okada for the International Championship. Fletcher worked his way back quickly to capture the title for himself.

Fletcher entered All In on Sunday trying to defend the title against both men. With each wrestler in the ring, the match had a chance to steal the show. Fletcher started with a superkick to Okada, who appeared to be aligned as part of the Don Callis Family going into the match. Still, it proved that it was every man for himself.

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Okada hit Fletcher with two Rainmakers. When he went for a third, Fletcher countered with a devastating lariat of his own. Takeshita watched it from the outside as he caught his breath. He quickly got back into the match but trying to take out Fletcher proved to be a daunting task. Fletcher caught Takeshita on the top rope and went for a brainbuster. But Takeshita reversed the move into a tornado DDT of sorts.

Thoroughly spent, Takeshita and Fletcher knocked Okada out of the ring. The two then met in the middle of the ring once more and began to throw forearms at each other. Fletcher then ate a Blue Thunder Bomb and hit Takeshita with a turnbuckle brainbuster.

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Okada took his time and took advantage of Fletcher’s focus on Takeshita. He caught Fletcher with a Rainmaker. He pinned Fletcher for the win.

Fletcher avoided hitting Okada with the belt after the loss. Fletcher lived up to his word and raised Okada’s hand for the win.

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It is Okada’s second reign as international champion. He initially held the belt for 316 days after he beat Kenny Omega at All In last year.

Vulnerable Dem's own audit admits Medicaid oversight failure amid massive statewide fraud scandal

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:00:05 -0400

Maine's state auditor Matt Dunlap, who is now pursuing a bid to represent Maine's 2nd Congressional District as a Democrat, released a report earlier this year sounding the alarm that the state's internal watchdog for its MaineCare program had a serious gap in utilization control.

"[The Program Integrity Unit] could not provide documentation of the methodology used to identify projects and post-payment reviews performed in relation to surveillance of all Medicaid services provided under the State plan," the report reads, referring to the "PIU," the program's watchdog.

The report’s release, which comes after revelations of healthcare fraud in Maine from federal investigators and a local whistleblower, puts renewed focus on Dunlap’s tenure as auditor and raises questions about Maine's past systems to detect fraud amid one of the country's most competitive congressional races.

VANCE TURNS UP HEAT ON STATES WITH FEDERAL CASH THREAT OVER MEDICAID FRAUD CRACKDOWN

In order to ensure that state programs are complying with federal requirements, the PIU, the watchdog, selects a set number of cases for review, picking those cases based on "data analytics." The report didn't expand on those analytics — but noted a key weakness. In addition to being unable to provide documentation of why those cases had been chosen for review, the process also didn't take into account possible misuse — by patients or by the companies that bill MaineCare.

In the report's words, the PIU, the watchdog group, "does not document consideration of misutilization practices of beneficiaries or providers ... [and] may not provide adequate monitoring of all Medicaid services, resulting in potential noncompliance with Federal regulations."

Dunlap's 2026 report also acknowledged that this particular reporting issue hadn't been caught before, noting that it had a "prior year findings: none" designation.

When asked about the weakness and whether this was really the first time it had surfaced in an audit, Dunlap's campaign stressed that the report only narrowly applied to that particular weakness and that Dunlap had received praise — even from local Republicans — on his work identifying other liabilities.

"As Auditor, Matt Dunlap has flagged many issues that date back to the LePage administration. He has been praised by local press and Republican leaders alike for his work to recommend ways to safeguard taxpayer dollars. Paul LePage should answer why his team didn't implement the recommendations of his own Auditors from when he was governor," Harry Burke, a spokesperson for the Dunlap campaign said in a comment to Fox News Digital, referring to the Republican nominee in the race, a former governor of Maine who served from 2011 to 2019.

The campaign also observed that Dunlap himself, as an auditor, has little power to implement changes he flags as problematic. Decisions to remedy issues within Maine's programs lie within the departments themselves, although auditors can recommend specific changes.

"The auditor's job is to be a fire alarm: identify the problems so that state agencies can act. For example, last year, his recommendations led to the arrest and prosecution of a procurement fraudster saving taxpayer dollars," Burke added.

Despite his campaign's pushback, Dunlap has received backlash from Republicans for failing to stop fraud schemes that have caught national attention.

TRUMP TASK FORCE IS TACKLING $250 BILLION IN GOVERNMENT FRAUD. IT’S JUST GETTING STARTED

Dunlap first came into the role in 2021 despite lacking the credentials to become an auditor. After being installed, he had to resign after twice failing the needed tests to become a certified auditor. Even so, Dunlap returned to the role in November 2022 after passing the requisite exams.

That track record has become a focal point for Republicans in the congressional race after the U.S. Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General revealed in January that the state had paid out at least $45.6 million in improper Medicaid payments for autism services.

The findings only furthered concerns raised by a whistleblower in December.

Christopher Bernardini, a former employee of Gateway Community Services, said his company had been defrauding Maine’s Medicaid program. According to Bernardini, the health services contractor had routinely filed false records about client visits, billing the state for services that Gateway had never provided.

The compounding stories of fraud have captured the attention of figures like Vice President JD Vance, who highlighted them in a visit to the state on Monday.

"How did Maine become one of the main capitals of defrauding the American taxpayer?’" Vance asked at a campaign event.

"One of the answers is somehow you guys hired an auditor who is not actually an auditor and failed the auditor exam. Well, call it old-fashioned common sense, but if you want somebody managing your money, maybe they ought to actually meet the constitutional requirements to do the job," Vance said.

Vance argued Dunlap’s track record should be disqualifying.

"And for Matt Dunlap, if you’ve got a guy who cannot protect your tax dollars from fraudsters, who has turned your state into one of the fraud capitals of the United States of America, maybe you should be saying to Matt Dunlap, ‘You’re fired, not promoted to the United States Congress,’" Vance said.

Previous years of reporting before Dunlap’s time as auditor also cast doubt on the office’s aggressiveness in uncovering fraud, hinting that the office’s zeal has declined under his watch.

Notably, in the six years before Dunlap took over the reins in 2022, the state had identified that it had almost too many active fraud investigations.

"Cases opened because of potential fraud, abuse, or questionable practices need improved supervisory review," several reports state.

Audits going back to 2016 noted that the office had routinely taken on more cases than its resources and its staffing would allow for, leading to a lack of monitoring of individual cases.

DR. OZ NAMES 5 STATES IN FRAUD CRACKDOWN AS TRUMP ADMIN TARGETS MEDICAID ABUSE

Since Dunlap returned to the role in 2022, the auditor’s office has not resurfaced that concern.

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Having secured his party’s nomination in the state’s primaries earlier this year, Dunlap heads to the general election on Nov. 3, where he faces off against the Republican nominee, former Gov. Paul LePage.

Iran retaliates against US forces after American strikes in key oil route and more top headlines

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:03:28 -0400

Good morning and welcome to Fox News’ morning newsletter, Fox News First. And here's what you need to know to start your day ...

TOP 3

1. Iran retaliates against US forces after American strikes in key oil route

2. US carrier joins operations to support security in Mideast

3. Trump says what would be 'big, big trouble' for America

MAJOR HEADLINES

TRAIL OF DAMAGE — Around 15 people unaccounted for after flash flood tears through Grand Canyon. Continue reading …

HARD AT WORK — AI data center boom sparks hiring surge at one of America’s oldest manufacturers. Continue reading …

RIPPLE EFFECT — Retired judge warns more accused killers may follow Lindsay Clancy strategy. Continue reading …

SURVIVOR'S SPIRIT — California mom loses both legs after SUV suddenly barrels into outdoor dining area. Continue reading …

GRIDIRON VERDICT — FSU nearly blown out by a 4-8 squad and Norvell's job could be on the line. Continue reading …

POLITICS

BOOM VOYAGE — Pentagon puts suspected drug boats on notice with new images and deadly warning. Continue reading …

FROM THE PEW — Progressives invoke Jesus as they push left-wing agenda in key Senate races. Continue reading …

ROAD RECKONING — Dozens of illegal alien truck drivers busted with licenses from Dem-run states. Continue reading …

ON NOTICE — Duffy teases 'unprecedented' fraud crackdown as federal agencies team up. Continue reading …

Click here for more cartoons…

MEDIA

GUILT BY ASSOCIATION — Hasan Piker tells reporter El-Sayed asked him to 'stump' for Michigan campaign. Continue reading …

POLITICAL THEATER — Border czar Homan fires back at Democrat who claims ICE is 'terrorizing' children. Continue reading …

MUZZLE ATTEMPT — Trump vows to report Kristen Welker to FCC over 'purposeful inaccuracy.' Continue reading …

DOLLAR DIPLOMACY — Brandon Johnson's new order forces contractors to reveal ties to federal agencies. Continue reading …

OPINION

GOV. MIKE DUNLEAVY — America cannot beat China by leaving Alaska’s critical minerals underground. Continue reading …

JONATHAN TURLEY — Far-left litmus test for Senate hopefuls exposes the radical priority. Continue reading …

IN OTHER NEWS

AISLE OF PRIDE — Shoppers are going hog wild for merchandise from 110-year-old American grocery chain. Continue reading …

ON TOP AGAIN — Scheffler gets last laugh after F-bomb frustration, storms back to win Tour Championship. Continue reading …

'IT'S OFFICIAL!' — Google Maps begins showing 'Lake America' to US users after Trump order. Continue reading …

AMERICAN CULTURE QUIZ – Test yourself on football futures and dessert drama. Take the quiz here …

LISTEN

Tune in as Republican leadership faces a tight window to pass a budget, clear legislative hurdles, and set the narrative before early voting begins. Check it out.

FOX WEATHER

What’s it looking like in your neighborhood? Continue reading…

Thank you for making us your first choice in the morning! We’ll see you in your inbox first thing Tuesday.

SEN CHUCK GRASSLEY: Republicans are making America safer by restoring law and order

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:00:39 -0400

The 119th Congress will be remembered as a decisive turning point for American safety and security. By electing Republicans to the majority in 2024, voters rejected the leftist ideals of defunding the police, abolishing prisons and supporting violent criminals over victims. In turn, Republicans have led a resurgence in commonsense crime-fighting legislation, supported by the historic confirmation pace of judicial and executive nominees who interpret and enforce the law.

National security is the No. 1 responsibility of the federal government. The previous administration abdicated this duty by promoting soft-on-crime policies that left the American people with emboldened criminals, struggling police departments and Soros-backed district attorneys who refused to prosecute murderers, rapists and child abusers.

But where Democratic leadership failed, Republicans in the 119th Congress have delivered. Republicans’ renewed focus on fighting crime, championing law enforcement and protecting American families has coincided with the largest drop in violent crime ever recorded in the United States.

Murder and robbery declined approximately 20% from 2024 to 2025. And according to the Council on Criminal Justice’s midyear report, 2026 is on track to meet, if not exceed, 2025’s historic drop in crime.

America is the safest it’s been in a century.

TODD BLANCHE 'HONORED AND HUMBLED' BY TRUMP'S AG NOMINATION AFTER EXPLOSIVE WEEK OF FEDERAL ARRESTS

This Congress, the Senate Judiciary Committee has been at the epicenter of Republicans’ crime-fighting agenda. As chairman, I’m proud to have ushered major pieces of public safety legislation through the committee, including the passage of my HALT Fentanyl Act to crack down on deadly fentanyl knockoffs, the Secure America Act to fund law enforcement and border security measures, and numerous bills that back the blue.

I’ve also led the confirmation of key Department of Justice leaders who have refocused federal efforts on protecting Americans, including Attorney General Todd Blanche. At the same time, I’ve processed and advanced President Donald Trump’s law-and-order judicial nominees at the fastest pace since the Reagan administration.

CARGO THEFT HITS EVERYTHING FROM LEGO TO TEQUILA. WE NEED THE SENATE TO HELP STOP IT

With less than six months left in the 119th Congress, my work as Judiciary Committee chairman is moving full steam ahead. I’m keeping my nose to the grindstone to continue confirming Trump’s nominees to keep our streets safe.

I’m also pushing a landmark nationwide crime package to protect children from online exploitation, crack down on organized retail crime, combat the spread of illicit xylazine and stem the flow of contraband in federal prisons.

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This bipartisan legislation has garnered widespread support from major child safety, law enforcement and technology groups, as well as the Trump administration. It’s imperative that this package is signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act.

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I’ve approached my responsibilities this Congress as a husband, father and grandparent who wants every American family to be safe from crime. I’ve worked hard to do just that, and I’m proud of Republicans’ achievements in delivering lasting security for generations to come.

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Dietitian reveals simple eating strategy for better sleep — and one habit to avoid

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 07:00:04 -0400

How you eat can influence how you sleep, according to experts.

Erin Palinski-Wade, a New Jersey-based registered dietitian, certified diabetes care specialist and author of "The Sleepdemic Solution," says certain foods can make, or break, a good night’s sleep.

"There are a number of foods that can help support sleep, and sometimes it's even a combination," she told Fox News Digital.

5-STEP SLEEP RESET COULD PROMOTE HEALTHY WEIGHT LOSS, NUTRITIONIST SAYS

Supporting better sleep

Keeping blood sugar steady throughout the day may help prevent afternoon energy crashes and support more restorative sleep at night, Palinski-Wade said.

Waking up in the middle of the night and struggling to fall back asleep may not always be insomnia, she suggested, but could be linked to fluctuations in glucose levels.

Combining lean proteins, slow-digesting carbohydrates and healthy fats in meals and snacks can help stabilize those levels — what Palinski-Wade called the "No. 1 way" to improve overall sleep.

Some small studies suggest tart cherry juice may support sleep, and the expert named tart cherries — or 100% tart cherry juice — as her top choice.

FOOD CRAVINGS AT 3:45 PM AREN'T RANDOM, HERE'S WHAT YOUR BODY MAY BE WARNING YOU ABOUT

"Tart cherries [are] one of the foods that have the highest amount of melatonin naturally, but they also have compounds that help to really extend that melatonin in our bodies and our body's ability to use it," she said.

Still, research linking tart cherry consumption to modest improvements in sleep duration or quality is limited and mixed; a 2025 systematic review reached a similar conclusion.

For those who suffer from insomnia, Palinski-Wade recommends ingesting 4 to 6 ounces of 100% tart cherry juice, or about a quarter cup of dried tart cherries.

"It's a really, really great tool to improve your sleep – and it's really tasty, too," she said.

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Foods and drinks that may help reduce inflammation can also support sleep, the dietitian said.

"When we have more antioxidants in the body, more anti-inflammatory compounds, we're really helping our body to achieve that more restful state," Palinski-Wade said.

Foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds — including nuts and seeds, olive oil and avocados — also provide healthy fats and other nutrients that may support sleep.

Caffeine’s sleep impact

On the other hand, Palinski-Wade warned that caffeine intake can negatively impact sleep quality.

"So many of us have a poor night's sleep and the next day we reach for caffeine to give us a burst of energy," she said. "And there's nothing wrong with a little bit of caffeine, but you have to look at how much you're having and how close to bedtime."

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"And it's a stimulant, so it's harder to fall asleep," Palinski-Wade warned. "If you have foods or beverages with a large amount of caffeine, and you're having them in the afternoon or toward the evening, that is going to make it very hard to get restorative, restful sleep in the evening."

For those who do drink caffeine, it is best to stop about 10 hours before bedtime, the expert advised.

The "sweet spot" for daily caffeine intake is 300 milligrams or less, she said. Any more than that becomes a "stressor to our body." A cup of coffee, traditionally 8 ounces, is about 100 milligrams.

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The FDA says up to 400 milligrams daily is not generally associated with negative effects for most adults, although individual tolerance can vary depending on factors such as medications, health conditions and sensitivity to caffeine.

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"We start to release stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, and that not only makes our body store fat versus burn it, but it also increases inflammation," Palinski-Wade noted.

"So now you have the stimulant, you have this inflammation, and all those things go against quality sleep."

Trey McKinney becomes youngest Bassmaster Angler of the Year at 21, breaking Kevin VanDam's record

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 06:57:05 -0400

CLAYTON, NEW YORK — Evan Kung's name is on the tournament trophy from the St. Lawrence River. But the biggest story out of Clayton this week might actually be the young guns.

The Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River closed out the 2026 Elite Series regular season, and with it came the season-long Angler of the Year and Rookie of the Year titles. These are awards decided by cumulative points across all nine regular-season events — not by who wins this one tournament.

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Still, a lot was riding on how this Championship Sunday shook out.

McKinney finally slays the dragon

Trey McKinney came into the season finale having watched Chris Johnston walk away with the Angler of the Year title for two straight years — runner-up finishes that, as the emcee pointed out, meant McKinney had "never been out of the top two" in the AOY race in his young career.

This time, the roles reversed: Johnston himself handed McKinney the trophy. A passing of the torch, you could call it.

At 21, McKinney is now the youngest Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year in history — breaking a record held by Kevin VanDam since 1992. It's a fitting cap to a week where McKinney also boated the heaviest five-fish smallmouth limit ever weighed in Bassmaster history (30 pounds, 11 ounces, back on Day 2) and picked up his own Century Belt for good measure.

None of it came easily. McKinney finished the tournament in second place, 2 pounds behind Kung. But by his own account, that was never really what he came to Clayton for.

"Yes, I didn't win the tournament, but I wasn't even thinking about that," McKinney said. "Angler of the Year is the only thing I was thinking about all week. I was doing well in the tournament, but that title is what was on my mind."

EVAN KUNG WINS BASSMASTER ELITE AT ST. LAWRENCE RIVER IN A TOURNAMENT FOR THE RECORD BOOKS

The final push very nearly didn't happen. McKinney described his last hours on the water as the most nervous he's ever been fishing.

"I was more nervous today than I've ever been in my whole life," he said. "I couldn't even think straight. My fish were short-striking, not committing, and I thought there was no way I was about to hand this away. We kept running around, and thank goodness, right at the end we caught a 6-pounder to seal it.

"I was about ready to leave when something told me to keep going a little longer. There was one rock. I gave it a shot, and it was a 6-pounder. If I hadn't caught that fish, I don't think I would have gotten it."

McKinney credited three years of hard work finally paying off. His mom took the mic on stage afterward to share in the moment, crediting faith and the support of everyone who'd backed him through the chase.

Rookie of the Year was decided from the shore

While McKinney was closing out his tournament, a tight Rookie of the Year race was being decided, too. And it included a man who wasn't fishing at all.

Caleb Hudson led the rookie points race most of the season but didn't make the cut for Championship Sunday at St. Lawrence. This left him to watch from land as Fisher Anaya — the only other rookie still in contention — fished for the title. Anaya needed a top-six finish on the final day to overtake Hudson. He came in ninth, at 100 pounds, 5 ounces (a Century Belt, but not enough to flip the race), which meant Hudson held on to win Rookie of the Year without ever making a cast that day.

"It was the most nerve-wracking day I've ever had to go through," Hudson said before the final leaderboard was announced. "I think today has felt like at least 30 hours long since I got up this morning. I'm ready for this to be over. I hate this feeling. Either way, I'm going to be happy. I've had an amazing season, and Fisher's a great angler. I'd have no problem losing to him. He's phenomenal."

When it was official, Hudson — who picked up a $10,000 bonus check from Pro Guide Batteries along with the title — noted the timing: "Today's my mom's birthday, so I did it for her. Best birthday present — saves me some money on a gift."

JACK STORY SKIPPED HIS HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION TO GO BASS FISHING AND WALKED AWAY WITH $100K

Anaya, for his part, lost the title in dramatic fashion — losing what he described as one of the biggest smallmouth of his life on his first two casts of the day.

"What a battle, what a season," Anaya said. "The last two days have been rough. I've lost more than I've caught. I knew heading out this morning it just didn't feel right. Congrats to Caleb. It was his time to win, and he had a heck of a season. I'm not mad about losing to him. If it was going to be someone, he's the guy to lose to."

Maybe we’re seeing a changing of the guard.

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Between a 21-year-old breaking a three-decade-old record and a Rookie of the Year race that came down to who was and wasn't fishing on the final day, this St. Lawrence River finale was a doozy.

And it showcased a few of the faces the sport will be talking about for years to come.

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Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese must now work together at Women's World Cup as WNBA takes a high-stakes break

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 06:51:30 -0400

The U.S. is headed to a battle in Berlin.

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese will have to work together to uphold American dominance in the Women's Basketball World Cup in September. At home, the WNBA will take a two-week break from hosting the chaos of the 2026 season.

So Americans will have to root together for their biggest stars on the world stage. The U.S. has won four consecutive World Cups in a row and this year's team will also have to protect an active 30-game win streak.

What happens in Berlin could very well shape the climate of the league that the players return to when the WNBA season resumes.

Can Clark and Reese work together?

Clark and Reese have spent more than three years framed as adversaries.

The last time they were on a basketball court, Clark was seen laughing as she walked by Reese, who had just missed the game-winning layup.

Their rivalry fueled the 2023 national championship game between Iowa and LSU. It followed them into a rematch in the 2024 NCAA Tournament, then into the WNBA as the top two contenders for Rookie of the Year. Every matchup, foul and postgame comment became another invitation for fans to choose a side.

But at times, they've also shown glimpses of what that can look like when playing together.

Reese first said, "one day, hopefully, we can be teammates," while discussing Clark in an October 2024 Wall Street Journal article.

They first became teammates at the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game, when Clark recorded 10 assists and Reese finished with 12 points and 11 rebounds in Team WNBA’s victory over the U.S. Olympic team.

CAITLIN CLARK HELPS WNBA SHATTER ANOTHER TV RATINGS RECORD AS FEVER-DREAM DRAWS MASSIVE AUDIENCE

In March, Clark and Reese helped the U.S. go 5-0 at the World Cup qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico.

There was an awkward moment when Clark appeared to ignore a high five invitation from Reese during one of the games.

Clark earned tournament MVP honors after averaging 11.6 points and a tournament-leading 6.4 assists. Reese averaged a team-high eight rebounds while shooting 52.2% from the field.

"Team chemistry is everything," Reese said during the qualifying tournament. "Some of us have played with each other on our respective teams, but we have to come together and find your role. Everybody’s not going to be able to do everything that they do on their respective team."

Clark and Reese will play alongside established champions A’ja Wilson, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier and Chelsea Gray in Berlin.

What will happen during the national anthems?

The available rules and national-team precedent point to the entire U.S. team standing on the court for "The Star-Spangled Banner" in Berlin. Whether every player places her hand over her heart or sings along is a separate question that neither USA Basketball nor FIBA rules answer.

The issue has drawn new attention during the 2026 WNBA season because teams have followed different routines.

Several WNBA teams historically and routinely remain in the locker room or clear the floor during the playing of the national anthem as part of pregame routines.

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The Atlanta Dream remained in their locker room while the anthem played before their Aug. 16 game against the Indiana Fever. That left Reese and Rhyne Howard, both members of the World Cup roster, off the court while Clark, Aliyah Boston and the rest of the Fever stood along the sideline.

Clark stood facing the flag with her hands behind her back. Sophie Cunningham placed her right hand over her heart.

The difference generated criticism of Clark online, although nothing in the WNBA rulebook requires players to sing or place a hand over their heart.

The rules change when those players leave their WNBA teams and join the national program.

USA Basketball’s code of conduct requires participants to follow FIBA and USA Basketball rules, attend team functions as directed and "demonstrate proper respect during the playing of the national anthem." The code does not define "proper respect," but it gives USA Basketball authority to investigate alleged violations and impose discipline.

FIBA also controls the ceremonies in Berlin. Its 2026 regulations state that only anthems and flags of countries or national federations recognized by FIBA may be used. The regulations leave the details of World Cup ceremonies to the tournament’s hosting documents. They do not publicly prescribe whether a player must sing, place a hand over her heart or assume another specific posture.

FIBA’s code of conduct additionally prohibits players and other "basketball parties" from using gestures, words or objects to transmit political or ideological messages that are deemed unfit for a sporting event. The rule does not specifically identify kneeling, remaining silent or declining to place a hand over the heart as violations. It does, however, give FIBA greater control over demonstrations than the WNBA has exercised during its domestic season.

Past U.S. teams have treated international competition differently from the WNBA. American players who routinely remained off the court during WNBA anthems stood together for them at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Sue Bird, then the team’s captain and now the managing director who selected the 2026 roster, said wearing a USA uniform changed the context.

"You are wearing USA jerseys and it does change the conversation a little bit and what you’re representing," Bird said at the time. "With that, I don’t feel like a hypocrite in any way. Everyone knows where we stand. I don’t think it contradicts anything since we’re actually doing the work." The U.S. players stood with their arms linked during that Olympic run.

There also were no reported anthem protests during the United States’ five-game World Cup qualifying run in Puerto Rico in March. That team included Clark, Reese, Howard, Paige Bueckers and Kahleah Copper.

As of Aug. 30, no member of the World Cup roster has publicly announced plans to kneel, leave the floor or conduct another demonstration during the anthem in Berlin.

Rival world powers collide

The Americans will open the World Cup against China on Sept. 4. It will be a rematch of the 2022 World Cup final. Women's basketball dominance over America's greatest current geopolitical rival will be on the line.

There have been 15 World Cup and Olympic meetings between the countries, and the U.S. has won all 15.

Two of those victories came at the 2022 World Cup. The U.S. beat China 77-63 during group play and then defeated it again, 83-61, in the final. The victory gave the Americans their fourth consecutive world championship.

China still viewed its silver medal as a major national achievement. The championship game took place on Oct. 1, China’s National Day.

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Afterward, China’s General Administration of Sport praised the team for competing "with the motherland in mind." The government agency called the silver medal "a perfect birthday gift to the country," according to China Daily.

What happens during national anthems will also be a point of potential contrast during the game against China.

China has had a national anthem law since 2017. The law specifically lists major sporting events as occasions for the anthem and directs those present to stand solemnly and behave respectfully. Deliberately insulting the anthem in public can result in detention or criminal prosecution under Chinese law.

The law will not govern what the American players do in Berlin. But it shows how differently the two countries can treat displays of patriotism at sporting events.

In the U.S., anthem protests have become part of the political debate surrounding professional sports. Players have been praised, criticized and placed under close scrutiny depending on whether they stand, kneel, leave the court or place a hand over their heart.

In China, disrespecting the anthem can become a legal matter.

The World Cup opener will arrive amid another sensitive period in U.S.-China relations. The countries remain divided over trade, tariffs, human rights and China’s relationship with Taiwan, even as officials work toward another meeting between their presidents.

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None of that will determine what happens on the court. But it will affect how the game—and especially the moments before it — are interpreted in both countries.

Amazon makes Alexa+ free on compatible Fire TVs

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 06:51:18 -0400

AI is coming to your TV, and if you own a compatible Fire TV, Amazon may add it without you doing anything. Amazon is rolling out Alexa+ to compatible Fire TV devices across the U.S. at no additional cost. You do not need an Amazon Prime membership for the Fire TV experience. There is no app to download or subscription to activate either. Eligible devices get upgraded automatically.

That means millions of televisions and streaming devices are gaining a more conversational AI assistant. But what you probably really want to know is: What can you actually say to it?

There is also a privacy question worth answering. Some Fire TV devices have hands-free microphones while others rely on the microphone button on the remote. Alexa also stores information about your interactions depending on your settings. So, here is how to try Alexa+ on your Fire TV and how to check the controls behind it.

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ALEXA+ LETS YOU ORDER FOOD LIKE A REAL CONVERSATION

What Alexa+ changes on your Fire TV

The old Alexa worked best when you gave it a fairly direct command. Alexa+ can understand more natural conversations and follow-up questions.

For example, you can describe the kind of movie you want rather than knowing its title. Then you can narrow the results without repeating your entire request.

Amazon says Alexa+ users are having nearly twice as many conversations on Fire TV compared with the original Alexa. The company also says viewers choose Alexa's top movie recommendation more than 40% more often than they did previously.

The assistant reaches beyond entertainment too. It can interact with compatible smart home devices and display supported camera feeds. You can also ask general questions while you watch TV.

How to start using Alexa+ on Fire TV

How you talk to Alexa+ depends on the Fire TV hardware you have.

If you use a Fire TV Stick: Press and hold the Alexa or microphone button on your Alexa Voice Remote. Say what you want, then release the button. Amazon says current Fire TV Sticks use the remote for voice control. Hands-free control requires a linked Echo device.

If you use a Fire TV Cube: You can press the microphone button on the remote or speak to Alexa from across the room. The current Fire TV Cube supports native hands-free Alexa through its built-in microphone array.

If Alexa is built into your smart TV: Capabilities vary by model. Some supported televisions have hands-free Alexa while others rely on the voice remote or a linked Echo. Amazon's device specifications identify which models support far-field voice control.

Once Alexa+ appears on your Fire TV, there is no special Alexa+ mode you need to open. Just start talking to it.

Try these Alexa+ commands on your Fire TV

The real fun starts when you stop treating Alexa like a search box. Try conversational requests and follow up naturally. Some features depend on the streaming service, your subscriptions and the smart home devices connected to Alexa.

Finding something to watch: "Alexa, find a highly rated thriller from the last five years."
Narrowing the results: "Make it something funny instead."
Finding family entertainment: "Show me family movies that are under two hours."
Learning about what you are watching: "Alexa, who is this actor and what else have they been in?"
Moving between TVs: "Alexa, move this show to the bedroom Fire TV."
Finding a movie moment: "Alexa, jump to the restaurant scene in this movie." Amazon says scene jumping works with thousands of supported Prime Video movies.
Checking your front door: "Alexa, show me the front-door camera."
Changing the room: "Alexa, dim the living-room lights for movie night."
Checking sports: "Alexa, what's the score of the Yankees game?"
Doing something without grabbing your phone: "Alexa, set a 20-minute timer."

Amazon specifically highlights conversational entertainment searches, follow-up questions, Ring camera feeds, smart home controls and general information requests as part of Alexa+ on Fire TV. It also supports jumping directly to described scenes in thousands of Prime Video movies.

That last feature may be especially useful when you are trying to find one memorable moment without dragging the progress bar back and forth.

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Amazon products that work well with the new Alexa+ experience

If your current television still works perfectly, a streaming stick may be the easiest way to add the newer Fire TV experience.

For an affordable upgrade: Fire TV Stick HD

Amazon's latest Fire TV Stick HD supports Wi-Fi 6 and includes voice control through the Fire TV remote. It is designed for HD streaming and can also work with a linked Echo for hands-free Alexa control.

For a 4K television: Fire TV Stick 4K Plus

The Fire TV Stick 4K Plus supports 4K Ultra HD, Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and Dolby Atmos. It includes an Alexa Voice Remote. Like the other current sticks, hands-free Alexa requires a linked Echo.

For hands-free Alexa: Fire TV Cube

The Fire TV Cube makes the most sense if you specifically want to speak to Alexa without reaching for the remote. Amazon's current Cube has a four-microphone array and supports native hands-free Alexa.

To compare these Fire TV options and find links to the models we recommend, visit CyberGuy.com.

Is your Fire TV microphone always listening?

This is where the type of Fire TV you own makes a big difference. If you have a Fire TV Stick, the streaming stick itself does not provide native hands-free Alexa. You normally press the microphone button on the Alexa Voice Remote when you want to speak. Amazon says a blue indicator appears on the television when the remote is recording your request and sending it to the cloud. If you pair that Fire TV Stick with an Echo, the Echo can provide hands-free voice control.

The Fire TV Cube works differently. It has built-in microphones designed to hear the Alexa wake word from across the room. Amazon says supported hands-free Fire TV devices use on-device wake-word detection. Once the device recognizes the wake word, audio is sent to Amazon's cloud for processing. Amazon says that audio can include a fraction of a second from immediately before the wake word. That is worth knowing before you start using Alexa+ heavily.

How to physically turn off a hands-free Fire TV microphone

If your Fire TV device supports hands-free Alexa, look for its microphone-off button or switch. Amazon says using that control disconnects power to the microphones. A red light appears to show that the microphones are disabled.

With the microphones off, that device cannot record or stream audio when you say the Alexa wake word. You can still use an Alexa Voice Remote because the remote has its own microphone that activates when you press its voice button. That gives you a useful middle ground. You can disable hands-free listening while keeping voice commands available whenever you intentionally press the remote button.

Turn off Alexa Follow Up Mode if you want less listening

Alexa can support follow-up requests so you do not have to repeat the wake word every time. If you prefer Alexa to stop listening after each request, Amazon says you can disable Follow Up Mode in your device settings or through the Alexa app. There is an even easier option. Say: "Alexa, turn off Follow Up Mode." Amazon confirms that voice command can disable the feature.

Check what Alexa has saved about you

If you are going to use Alexa+ more often, I would spend a minute looking at your Alexa history.

Open the Alexa app > More > Alexa Privacy > Review Alexa History.

Here you can review voice recordings, transcripts and typed Alexa requests associated with your Amazon account. Amazon says you can also delete them.

Next, go to Alexa app > More > Alexa Privacy > Manage Your Alexa Data.

Amazon provides controls here for managing how your voice recordings are retained and whether they can be used to improve its services.

If you use Alexa to control lights, cameras or other connected equipment, check More > Alexa Privacy > Manage Your Alexa Data > Smart Home Device History as well.

Amazon says you can delete that history or have certain smart home information automatically deleted after three or 18 months. Keep in mind that deleting Alexa history may affect personalization and certain Alexa features.

NEW AMAZON AI SEARCH TURNS WORDS INTO SHOPPABLE IMAGES

Check these privacy controls directly on Fire TV too

Alexa privacy is only one part of the equation. Fire TV has its own data settings.

Amazon's current instructions point to Settings > Preferences > Privacy Settings on Fire TV products.
Look for Device Usage Data. Turning this off tells Amazon to stop processing that device-usage information for customized marketing offers and product improvement.
Then check Collect App Usage Data. This controls Amazon's collection of information about when you open and close third-party apps and how long you use them.
You can also review Interest-based Ads if you want to reduce personalized advertising.

Amazon notes that turning these settings off does not stop every form of data collection. Some device information still gets processed to provide features, troubleshoot problems and operate Amazon services. Apps such as Prime Video may have separate privacy controls too. These settings are device-specific. If you have more than one Fire TV in the house, Amazon says you need to review the settings on each one.

What Alexa+ costs now

Here is an important detail that could easily get lost in the word "free." Compatible Fire TV owners in the U.S. can now use many Alexa+ features on their television at no additional charge, regardless of whether they have Prime.

However, Amazon still charges $19.99 a month for its broader Alexa+ Standard Plan for non-Prime members. Prime members receive the broader Alexa+ experience as part of Prime. Prime or the Alexa+ Standard Plan also unlocks additional capabilities. Amazon lists Alexa Routines, access to specific Ring camera moments and advanced Home Modes among the extra Fire TV features. Subscribers also get Alexa+ on compatible Echo devices. So, you can get plenty of Alexa+ functionality on a compatible Fire TV without paying another monthly fee. Just do not assume every Alexa+ feature across every Amazon device has become free.

What this means to you

For most Fire TV owners, the biggest improvement will probably be search. Scrolling through endless rows of movies can get old fast. Being able to describe what you want and then refine the results by talking naturally could make Alexa+ genuinely useful. Smart home controls add another layer. If you already use Ring cameras, compatible lights or connected locks, the television becomes another place to manage them. The automatic upgrade deserves attention too.

You may suddenly have an AI assistant with new capabilities on a device you have owned for years. That makes this a good time to understand whether your particular Fire TV has hands-free microphones and review the privacy choices connected to Alexa. You can use the convenience without leaving every data setting untouched.

Kurt's key takeaways

I like the direction Amazon is taking with Alexa+ on Fire TV because voice search badly needed an upgrade. Asking for a movie the way you would describe it to a friend feels far more useful than remembering an exact title. The hands-on features are where this gets interesting. I can see myself asking about an actor while watching a movie or pulling up a front-door camera without reaching for my phone. Still, an automatic AI upgrade should also trigger an automatic privacy check in your head. First, find out where the microphone actually lives. A Fire TV Stick's remote works differently from the hands-free microphones in a Fire TV Cube. Then look through Alexa Privacy and the Fire TV Privacy Settings menu. You may decide you are comfortable with everything exactly as Amazon configured it. You may also find a few switches you would rather change. Either way, that choice should belong to you.

Would you rather have Alexa+ automatically added to your Fire TV, or should Amazon make AI features like this something you choose to turn on yourself? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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LOVB franchise owner says transgender athletes 'should be able to play' in women's volleyball

Sun, 30 Aug 2026 14:47:24 -0400

Chantell Preston, a co-founder and co-owner of the incoming San Francisco Signal franchise who also holds an ownership stake in League One Volleyball, did not give a yes-or-no answer when asked by OutKick whether only females should compete in women’s sports, instead saying males who identify as transgender should be allowed to play, subject to unspecified "requirements".

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League One Volleyball, known as LOVB, is a women’s professional league that says it will expand by four teams for its third season, adding Los Angeles, San Francisco, Minnesota and Miami. The San Francisco Signal is scheduled to begin play in January 2027.

Preston said she was not sure whether LOVB permits transgender athletes to compete in its women’s league.

"I’m not exactly sure what League One Volleyball’s policy is on that," Preston said. "All I know is that we’re going to go after the best players."

Preston initially described the issue as a "minute" one. OutKick responded that eligibility is the first question organized sports must answer, then asked whether males who identify as transgender should compete in women’s sports.

"I don’t have an issue with it as long as it’s within certain boundaries," she said. "I think that there needs to be qualifications in regards to someone that plays. Do I have an issue with there being trans? It depends on the situation. I’m not really sure I have a position on it other than I think they should be able to play. Obviously there are certain requirements."

Preston said she also thinks about parents of transgender children.

"My children are not trans, but I can only imagine as a parent what they’re going through," Preston said. "So I think we need to look at the subject in a little different lens."

Preston said her views were personal and did not represent LOVB or the San Francisco Signal.

LOVB’s eligibility process remains unclear. After OutKick asked the league about its eligibility rules, LOVB said it follows USA Volleyball’s policies and guidelines. When asked how those rules apply to a professional women’s league, LOVB did not provide further details.

"LOVB follows the policies and guidelines established by USA Volleyball (USAV) regarding athlete eligibility and participation," a LOVB spokesperson said. "We operate in accordance with the standards set by our sport’s governing body."

USA Volleyball’s written policy says its athletes are expected to compete according to the gender assigned at birth on their birth certificate. The same document says an athlete’s competition gender in USA Volleyball’s membership system "has not officially been verified."

Neither LOVB nor USA Volleyball responded to follow-up questions from OutKick.

What USA Volleyball’s policy says

USA Volleyball’s Gender Competition Policy applies to "all USA Volleyball Members and USAV Athletes" participating in USA Volleyball-sanctioned events or activities.

The organization’s stated standard is that athletes are expected to compete "as a member of the gender assigned at the time of birth on their birth certificate."

USA Volleyball says athletes select a gender when buying a membership, and that selection appears in both the athlete’s profile and in the organization’s "Verified/Membership" information. Athletes can change the gender in their profile at any time. Only USA Volleyball or regional administrators can change the athlete’s "Verified/Membership" gender, which the policy says is the athlete’s competition gender.

The policy then adds: "USAV Verified/Membership gender has not officially been verified."

The policy also lays out a process for athletes who select "non-binary" in their profile. When a competition offers only male and female categories, USA Volleyball or a regional administrator must work with the athlete to determine a competition gender based on the athlete’s gender assigned at birth.

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OutKick asked USA Volleyball whether it verifies an athlete’s birth certificate; whether an amended certificate establishes eligibility; and what documentation is required before an athlete’s competition gender is assigned or changed. USA Volleyball did not respond.

A current state-by-state policy map from the Movement Advancement Project found that 40 states allow people to amend the sex marker on a birth certificate through some process, though the requirements range from an administrative change with no provider documentation to a court order, proof of surgery or both.

USA Volleyball’s policy does not say whether it relies on an athlete’s original birth certificate or an amended one.

LOVB cites USA Volleyball without explaining its own process

LOVB began play in 2025. Its response to OutKick did not state whether LOVB Pro matches are USA Volleyball-sanctioned, whether professional players must be USA Volleyball members, or whether LOVB has its own process for determining athlete eligibility.

OutKick also asked LOVB whether it applies USA Volleyball’s policy exactly as written, whether it independently verifies eligibility, and whether an amended birth certificate would establish eligibility for its women’s league. LOVB did not give a response to those questions.

USA Volleyball says its policy reserves women's competition for athletes assigned female at birth. The same policy acknowledges that an athlete’s competition gender "has not officially been verified."

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LOVB says it follows USA Volleyball’s policy. But neither organization answered OutKick’s questions about whether USA Volleyball checks birth certificates, recognizes amended records or how the policy applies to LOVB’s professional league. That leaves no way to determine whether LOVB’s women’s league actually excludes males.

OutKick will update this story if LOVB or USA Volleyball provides additional clarification.

Sports cartoons of the day

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 11:08:52 -0400

'Jesus was a radical': Progressives invoke Christ to sell left-wing agenda on campaign trail

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 06:00:59 -0400

Progressives seeking a seat in the Senate are taking a decades-old page from their Republican counterparts, using faith as a political tool to build connections with voters.

Three progressive Democratic candidates running for the Senate, Florida state Rep. Angie Nixon, Abdul El-Sayed and Texas state Rep. James Talarico, share a penchant for bucking the Democratic establishment in their meteoric rise this midterm cycle.

They have also incorporated their religions and faiths into their campaigns and messaging to voters, showing shades of the "Moral Majority" coalition that formed during the late 1970s in the GOP when former President Ronald Reagan was running as Republicans sought to tie policy to Christianity.

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Nixon, who scored a major upset against Alexander Vindman, a major figure during President Donald Trump’s first impeachment trial who was backed by the Democratic establishment in Washington, D.C., has become a prime target for the GOP because of her connection to the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA).

During a sermon last week at the Saint Paul AME Church of Jacksonville, Fla., Nixon, who will face Sen. Ashley Moody, R-Fla., in November, contended that her "radical" positions were akin to those of Jesus Christ.

"They are trying, y'all. They are trying … to label me as this extremist, this radical. But, you know, Jesus was a radical," Nixon said.

EL-SAYED MAKES JESUS COMPARISON WHEN PRESSED ON SOCIALIST VIEWS: 'RADICAL IN HIS TIME, TOO'

"And Jesus fought for — I mean, he pushed for the same things that I'm fighting for today, right? Right now, we're literally in a civil rights moment," she continued. "Whether or not people wanna believe it or not, but we are."

She joined the DSA in June, prompting immediate backlash from the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC), the Senate GOP’s campaign arm, which tied her to socialism, despite her denial that she’s a Democratic socialist.

Nixon isn’t the only one of the three to make the same comparison.

El-Sayed, during an appearance on the Progressive Christians Podcast that aired in May, similarly invoked Christ when asked about his policy positions. El-Sayed, who is Muslim and running in Michigan’s toss-up race against former Rep. Mike Rogers, was asked about the similarities between his faith and Christianity and why they were being targeted as radical.

"Well, you know, Jesus, peace and blessings be upon him, was considered radical in his time, too," El-Sayed said.

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"And there is a radical nature to being willing to stand forthright in a time of corruption, and I think it's important for all of us to realize that popularity and zeitgeist don't make truth. And we live in a time where people are trying to normalize corruption," he continued.

Of the three, Talarico, who is running in the toss-up race against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, has displayed his faith the most. He has been taking seminary classes to become a Presbyterian minister, and has blended Christianity with his policy platform since launching his candidacy last year.

And like the others, Republicans have pounced on his use of faith as a point of attack, particularly in his defense of transgender children.

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In pushing back against the Texas GOP’s newly signed anti-trans bill in 2021, Talarico argued Texas Republicans were trying to justify the measure "in the name of God's law."

"The first two lines of the Bible, the first two lines in Genesis, use two different Hebrew words to describe God. One is the masculine Hebrew noun for divinity," Talarico said. "The second is the feminine Hebrew noun for spirit. God is both masculine and feminine, and everything in between."

"God is non-binary," he said.

Shoppers are going hog wild for Piggly Wiggly's retro pig merchandise

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 06:00:37 -0400

Merchandise from a regional grocery store chain with locations across the Midwest and South has become a hot commodity.

Nicola Miller, of Suffolk, England, will detour as much as 50 miles to visit a Piggly Wiggly when she's in America, hoping to add another T-shirt featuring the iconic, cheerful Mr. Pig to her collection, Food & Drink reported.

Miller first encountered the mascot in the 1978 film "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," which features the retro pig face in the film's final scene.

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She told Food & Drink that Piggly Wiggly stores and the company's logo "spark joy" and nostalgia for her.

Miller is not alone.

The Piggly Wiggly brand "resonates across all ages and demographics," Terry F. Goins, Piggly Wiggly director of marketing and advertising for the Midwest, told Fox News Digital.

"Younger shoppers are drawn to exactly the qualities that make it retro: the hand-drawn feel, the humor, the fact that it's unmistakably regional and not from a national chain," Goins said.

"For a lot of younger customers, it's less, 'I remember this' and more, 'This is where I'm from.'"

The branding is warm and "doesn't take itself too seriously," Goins added.

"Mr. Pig has never been redesigned into something sleek and corporate. He looks like he looked. In a category where most logos get sanded down every eight years, that consistency is rare, and people respond to it."

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Piggly Wiggly was founded in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1916 by Clarence Saunders.

Saunders pioneered the then-unheard-of concept of modern self-service grocery shopping, according to the company's website. Before Piggly Wiggly, shoppers typically presented their orders to clerks, who gathered the goods from store shelves.

The self-service concept proved wildly successful, helping Piggly Wiggly grow from a single Memphis store into a nationwide chain with more than 1,200 locations by 1923.

Today, there are more than 500 Piggly Wiggly stores across 18 states.

The origins of the Piggly Wiggly name "remain a mystery," according to the company, but its Mr. Pig mascot has been part of the brand since the beginning.

For more than 20 years, Piggly Wiggly has formally sold branded merchandise online and in stores, while individual locations have also created their own designs. Piggly Wiggly shirts, however, had been circulating informally long before that.

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"That's a big part of what makes this fun," Goins said. "Piggly Wiggly Midwest is a mix of franchise and corporate-owned stores across Wisconsin and Illinois, and our independent operators know their communities better than anyone at a corporate office does.

"There are brand standards around how Mr. Pig and the logo are used — that mark is 110 years old, and we protect it — but within that, stores have latitude to [make] designs that speak to their town, their high school colors, their local events. That's why you'll find shirts in one store you won't find anywhere else."

Demand for Piggly Wiggly merchandise has been remarkably steady, Goins said.

"What we see instead are lifts tied to moments: a new design drop, a seasonal item, a tie-in with something happening in the community," he said.

"People aren't buying a shirt because a grocery store put its logo on one. They're buying it because Mr. Pig means something to them, and wearing it is a way of saying where they're from."

T-shirts featuring the pig's face on the front and its backside on the back are far and away the favorite, Goins said.

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"It's not close," he said. "The retro self-service design does very well, and honestly, anything involving the pig butt tends to move."

Some collectors treat the pastime like collecting ballpark or brewery merchandise, Goins said.

"They'll pick up a shirt from a store they haven't been to before," he said. "Nobody has ever told us they own too many Pig shirts."

Piggly Wiggly also offers seasonal and limited-edition designs, along with branded socks, shoes, hats, stuffed animals and more.

At the Wisconsin State Fair this month, the enthusiasm extended beyond merchandise.

"We had people lined up for over an hour — in August, at a state fair, with a thousand other things to do — for a temporary Mr. Pig tattoo," Goins said.

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The company also handed out 6,000 Piggly Wiggly reusable bags in under six hours.

"That's not a merchandise transaction," Goins said. "That's people wanting to be associated with something."

Everyone has their own Piggly Wiggly story, Goins said.

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"It's never generic," he said. "It's always personal and always tied to a specific place and a specific memory."

Queen Camilla puts past differences with Prince Harry aside as King Charles seeks closer family ties: experts

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 06:00:36 -0400

Queen Camilla will put King Charles III first as the royal family navigates Prince Harry’s return to the U.K., royal experts told Fox News Digital.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex returned to the U.K. on Aug. 26. Their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, will begin school in Britain in September.

Royal experts believe the king, who is still receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer, wants a relationship with his grandchildren. Camilla, they said, is prepared to support her husband as Harry hopes for reconciliation with his family.

PRINCE HARRY, MEGHAN MARKLE’S UK MOVE PUTS FRESH SPOTLIGHT ON THEIR EXPLOSIVE CLAIMS AGAINST ROYAL FAMILY

Before the Sussexes’ return, the king met with Harry, Meghan and their children at Highgrove House on July 10. Vanity Fair royal correspondent Katie Nicholl later reported that, according to sources, "not even the Prince and Princess of Wales were made aware that the meeting was taking place." Camilla was present.

"Camilla has weathered far bigger storms than the Sussexes’ 2020 move, or Prince Harry’s book, ‘Spare,’" royal commentator Meredith Constant told Fox News Digital. "Camilla knows how to lie low when she needs to. She’s going to go through the motions and put on a good face for her husband as he works on his relationship with his younger son."

"While Prince William and King Charles are not in lockstep over how to handle Prince Harry’s return, they understand that they are a unit with their respective wives," she said. "William wouldn’t expect Camilla to take a stand against her husband anymore than Charles would expect that of Kate."

WATCH: WHY KING CHARLES ALWAYS CAME BACK TO QUEEN CAMILLA: AUTHOR

Royal biographer Tom Bower told the Daily Mail that Camilla approached her stepson with what InStyle magazine described as "an olive branch" — a "fixed smile" before she "offered him tea." A source told Bower the meeting was "polite with no recrimination."

"Albeit this was indeed a polite gesture, it was merely a tiny aperture being opened, not a welcome for any full return as senior royals at all," British royal expert Hilary Fordwich told Fox News Digital. "It’s traditionally British to offer tea as merely a polite gesture. Camilla is dedicated to the king’s health and welfare, so it’s not surprising."

Royal historian Catherine Mayer told People magazine that Camilla "is a non-negotiable part of Charles’ life," adding, "there’s no reconciliation with [the king] without her."

The road to reconciliation may be a lengthy one for Harry. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back as senior royals in 2020, saying they faced intense scrutiny from the British press and lacked support from the palace.

After moving to California, the couple aired their grievances in interviews and documentaries. Harry’s 2023 memoir, "Spare," further strained his relationship with his family. Royal experts previously told Fox News Digital that Harry and his older brother, Prince William, haven’t spoken since 2022.

After "Spare" was published in 2023, Harry accused his stepmother of leaking private conversations to the media to burnish her reputation.

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In interviews, Harry accused family members of getting "into bed with the devil" to gain favorable tabloid coverage. He singled out Camilla's efforts to rehabilitate her image with the British public after her long-running relationship with his father.

Camilla, who once faced widespread public criticism, eventually won over many royal watchers through her charitable work and support of the king. Charles was crowned in 2023.

"Yes, she was hurt by Harry’s unkind words," British broadcaster and photographer Helena Chard told Fox News Digital. "However, she is made of tough stuff and plays a vital role as King Charles’ steadfast partner, prioritizing his protection. Supporting the king through rigorous treatment and applauding his determination, Camilla’s desire is to ensure her husband’s [golden] years bring him peace, health and joy."

"There is the fleeting thought that, despite Harry’s series of cutting jibes, Queen Camilla is reminded of a sad young Harry," she said. "She is sympathetic to Harry’s deep-rooted problems. But their relationship is tricky."

In 2023, Harry told "Good Morning America" that he and Camilla "haven’t spoken for a long time."

"I love every member of my family, despite the differences," he said. "So when I see her, we’re perfectly pleasant with each other."

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"She’s my stepmother," he continued. "I don’t look at her as an evil stepmother. I see someone who married into this institution and has done everything she can to improve her own reputation and her own image, for her own sake."

In May 2025, Harry told the BBC that he wanted reconciliation, saying, "There’s no point in continuing to fight anymore" and "life is precious." At the time, the prince said, "I do not know how much longer my father has left."

A source told People magazine that Harry had been thinking about the move "for a while." With Archie and Lilibet now school-age, the couple felt the timing made sense, the outlet reported.

As for Camilla and the rest of the royal family, royal experts expect them to keep calm and carry on.

"Members of the British royal family do not cause a scene," Constant said. "If they want information out there, it will find a way to the papers. Camilla doesn’t need to say a word to get her message across. As long as her stepson isn’t interfering with her husband’s reign, it’s just business as usual."

Chard said she believes Camilla is choosing to put her personal feelings aside and prioritize what is best for her husband.

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"Queen Camilla raced to the July 10 meeting at Highgrove in support of her husband, not for the love of Harry," she said. "Camilla was a listening ear and offered the usual stability to her husband. Queen Camilla is interested in the best for her husband and the monarchy going forward."

But not every royal appears to be on the same page about the Sussexes.

"Prince William, to date, has still had no contact with his wayward brother," Fordwich said. "The imminent future looks rather awkward. If Harry and Meghan refrain from any public accusations, any monetization of royal contacts, and are discreet, William is likely to be more open to controlled conduct than any sort of reconciliation. Harry should take a page out of Camilla’s playbook to gain eventual trust and respect. Silence is golden."

Kensington Palace, which represents the office of the Prince and Princess of Wales, told Fox News Digital that it does not comment on personal family matters. Fox News Digital reached out to Buckingham Palace for comment.

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Details about the location of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's private, non-royal home and the children’s school are being closely guarded, People magazine reported. The outlet also reported that the king was made aware of their plans on Aug. 16 and welcomed the opportunity to see more of his son’s family "in a private and personal capacity."

Newly unclassified Pentagon images show suspected drug boats as official issues deadly warning

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 06:00:16 -0400

EXCLUSIVE – Newly unclassified Pentagon images show suspected drug-smuggling boats at sea, including vessels loaded with apparent narcotics.

The images come as the department warned traffickers that the U.S. will continue hunting down those who threaten Americans, nearly a year after the Trump administration began striking suspected drug-trafficking vessels.

"Nearly one year after the first strike, the message to narco-terrorists remains unchanged: if you traffic deadly illicit narcotics and threaten the American people, we hunt you down, we will find you, and we will kill you," Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.

The photos, dated Oct. 27, Oct. 29 and Dec. 4, 2025, show the boats speeding through open water under U.S. military surveillance.

DEM SENATOR ACCUSES PENTAGON OF MURDER WITH BOAT STRIKES TARGETING DRUG TRAFFICKERS

Wilson said Operation Southern Spear has disrupted trafficking networks, forced traffickers to adapt their methods and removed "dangerous narcoterrorists."

US MILITARY CONDUCTS MORE DEADLY STRIKES AGAINST VESSELS OF ALLEGED 'NARCO-TERRORISTS'

"Operation Southern Spear has disrupted trafficking networks, forced trafficker adaptations, removed dangerous narcoterrorists, and demonstrated that the United States will use every lawful tool available to defend our Homeland and protect our communities," Wilson said.

The Pentagon told Fox News Digital the operation has carried out 67 strikes, including the first strike on Sept. 2, 2025.

US KILLS TWO 'NARCO-TERRORISTS' IN STRIKE 2 MONTHS SINCE LAST ANNOUNCED ANTI-'NARCO-TRAFFICKING' ATTACK

One of the most recent strikes came Aug. 25, when U.S. Southern Command said four alleged drug smugglers were killed aboard a fast boat operating along known trafficking routes in the Caribbean.

"Confirmed intelligence revealed the vessel’s active involvement in narco-trafficking," SOUTHCOM wrote in a post on X, saying the operation was carried out by Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere under the direction of Gen. Francis L. Donovan.

US MILITARY KILLS THREE 'NARCO-TERRORISTS' IN LATEST LETHAL STRIKE ON VESSEL IN THE EASTERN PACIFIC

"Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere continues executing precise, lethal operations against the cartels," Donovan said in a statement quoted in the post. "We will hunt, disrupt, and defeat these narco-terrorist networks."

"SOUTHCOM is resolved to neutralizing cartel terror and violence throughout the region and into the U.S. homeland," he added.

US MILITARY CONDUCTS STRIKE ON ANOTHER VESSEL CARRYING ALLEGED NARCO-TRAFFICKERS, KILLING 2

Days before the Caribbean strike, the U.S. military said two people were killed in a strike on a vessel in the Eastern Pacific. That was the first reported strike in more than two months. A video posted to X showed what appeared to be a moving boat before a flash filled the screen.

Since the first strike last September, the Trump administration has targeted suspected cartel vessels in the Atlantic and Pacific that it says were carrying narcotics.

PRESIDENT TRUMP’S DRUG CONTROL STRATEGY SETS THE PATH TO END THE DRUG CRISIS FOR GOOD

Trump has described the fight as an "armed conflict" with cartels in Latin America and has argued the attacks are necessary to stop drugs from reaching American communities and fueling fatal overdoses.

The administration is also pursuing agreements with allied nations that could extend its campaign onto land in multiple Latin American countries.

War Secretary Pete Hegseth said during a visit to Panama this month that Colombia, Guatemala and Honduras had agreed to allow the U.S. to conduct joint operations against criminal groups on their soil, though Guatemala denied an agreement had been reached. Ecuador began similar missions with the U.S. in March.

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Reuters, The Associated Press and Fox News Digital's Eric Mack contributed to this report.

This tiny farming town you’ve never heard of is helping Microsoft sell America on data centers

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 06:00:05 -0400

In central Washington, a farming town of roughly 8,100 people has become an unlikely showcase for America’s data-center boom.

Quincy, long known for potato fields, apple orchards and food-processing plants, has spent two decades attracting some of the world’s largest technology companies. Microsoft began building data centers there around 20 years ago, drawn by affordable land, the region’s cool climate and abundant hydropower from the Columbia River.

Now the town is becoming central to Microsoft’s response to a backlash against the facilities powering cloud computing and artificial intelligence. The company this year cited Quincy as proof that data centers can bring tangible benefits to the communities that host them, as residents elsewhere raise alarms over electricity prices, water use and limited local job creation.

ONE OF THE WORLD'S HOTTEST INDUSTRIES IS SPARKING A BLUE-COLLAR JOBS BOOM

The economic gains are visible in Quincy.

KUOW reported that years of data-center tax revenue have helped support a state-of-the-art high school and hospital.

The city recently opened a new aquatic center, complete with a six-lane lap pool, lazy river and waterslides, and is planning a separate indoor sports complex.

Data centers are not an employment engine on their own. A single facility can operate with 50 employees or fewer, KUOW reported. But Quincy has enough facilities that the sector has become a meaningful employer in aggregate, while also supporting construction, service businesses and the city’s broader tax base.

TRUMP HEADS TOWARD UNLIKELY CLASH WITH CLOSE ALLY OVER FUTURE OF MULTIBILLION-DOLLAR INDUSTRY

Microsoft says its new national approach will ask local utilities to set rates high enough to cover data-center energy use and grid upgrades without raising prices for residents. The company also says future facilities will use closed-loop cooling systems that recycle water rather than drawing from local supplies.

Quincy already has such a system. Microsoft and the city partnered on a $31 million water-reuse utility that treats and recirculates cooling water. The EPA says the project reduces the company’s reliance on potable groundwater and saves an estimated 138 million gallons of water a year.

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Still, Quincy is not without skeptics.

Former Mayor Patty Martin, according to KUOW, has warned that the town must look beyond its immediate economic gains and consider its long-term water and electricity needs, pointing to population growth, electric vehicles and changing snowpack as added pressures on the region.

Quincy’s boom shows what data centers can bring to a small town and the questions communities must answer before they arrive.

The data center fight could decide the next president and cost America the AI race

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 05:00:43 -0400

It’s the fall of 2028. A debate moderator turns to two presidential nominees who spent their governorships fighting over data centers. "China’s AI lead is now a fact," she says. "In 2026, you decided to restrict data-center construction, and the machinist in Youngstown, Ohio, watched his job follow the servers to the Gulf. What do you tell him? Which of your policies would you take back?"

That reckoning is two years away, but the choices that will decide it are being made now. Rising electric bills deserve a real fix, but not one rushed for political expediency that leaves the people it’s meant to help worse off down the road.

The pressure to do something is building. Gary Elder retired to Lewisport, Ky., on a fixed income that makes any bill feel precarious. At a Public Service Commission hearing in Hancock County this July, the 69-year-old told regulators he was worried a 500-megawatt data center proposed nearby could push his electric bill toward $1,000 or more. Elder represents seven in 10 Americans who oppose a data center in their own backyard. And when politicians sense trouble, they move fast.

FOX NEWS POLL: COOL YOUR SERVERS! VOTERS REJECT DATA CENTERS

By August, Pennsylvania Democrat Gov. Josh Shapiro and Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, two governors who spent recent years courting hyperscale data centers, were both moving the other way. Shapiro signed an executive order he called the "strictest guardrails in the nation." Abbott froze new grid connections pending a statewide audit.

New York Democrat Gov. Kathy Hochul went further, pausing environmental permits for a year, and Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis guaranteed local governments’ authority to reject data centers. Republicans and Democrats are arriving at the same anxiety from different directions.

FROM NEW YORK TO TEXAS, STATES SHOULD RESPECT LOCAL CONTROL ON DATA CENTERS

In contrast, President Donald Trump has been the most unambiguous pro-buildout voice in the country, calling Abbott’s freeze a "mistake," while Senate Republicans have privately warned the issue could cost them Ohio’s Senate seat, where Trump-endorsed Sen. Jon Husted trails as "the face of data centers." The same dynamic is now repeating in the state’s gubernatorial race with Republican Vivek Ramaswamy calling for a moratorium of his own, and Democrat Amy Acton countering with hers.

For any ambitious politician eyeing 2028, there is little downside to running as the candidate who stood for cutting electric bills and considerable risk in being the one who has to explain why America’s compute lead matters.

TRUMP HEADS TOWARD UNLIKELY CLASH WITH CLOSE ALLY OVER FUTURE OF MULTIBILLION-DOLLAR INDUSTRY

Data centers are not just computer warehouses. They are the physical foundation of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, advanced manufacturing, scientific research, autonomous systems and, increasingly, national-security capabilities. Goldman Sachs estimates that U.S. AI-related investment will approach $600 billion in 2026. But every gigawatt of capacity America fails to build can flow to countries with faster permitting, cheaper power or more predictable policy, taking construction jobs, supply-chain work and the tax base with it.

Ironically, many of this year’s stalled projects aren’t zoning fights at all. They’re running into a more fundamental constraint: scarce high-voltage transformers, a bottleneck that exists with or without protests. The strategic vulnerability is that China accounts for roughly 60% of global transformer production capacity. Saudi Arabia’s $100 billion HUMAIN program, the UAE’s Stargate and a Japan buildout backed by Gulf sovereign wealth are courting the same capital American localities are turning away.

CHINA IS BUILDING AN AI WAR MACHINE. WASHINGTON MUST WAKE UP BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE

So how do we address legitimate concerns while keeping our eye on the strategic imperative of becoming the "AI capital of the world," as Trump put it?

Start by recognizing what this fight is actually about. Americans don’t oppose data centers; they oppose feeling like someone else gets the benefit while they get the bill. This shouldn’t be treated as us vs them, but as a solvable problem that comes down to three practical questions: where the power gets built, who pays for it and how fast the permits move.

DATA CENTERS FORGOT THE CONSUMER — AND THAT COULD COST AMERICA THE AI RACE

Data centers should pay the incremental cost of the electricity infrastructure they require, enter transparent power agreements, invest in new generation and storage where feasible and use energy- and water-efficient technologies. Communities should have meaningful input, and governments should tie tax incentives to measurable economic benefits.

Done right, this isn’t just fair, it works. Columbia University’s Center on Global Energy Policy found that large loads haven’t been the principal driver of rising rates, and in some places with the highest demand growth, prices have actually fallen, provided supply, cost allocation and tariff design are sound.

AMERICA NEEDS AI TO SURVIVE. WORKING FAMILIES ALSO NEED TO SURVIVE IT

States should also encourage data centers to locate where power is abundant, as West Virginia is doing. Its leaders view data centers as critical infrastructure and are positioning abundant energy, microgrids and proximity to population centers as advantages. Republican Gov. Patrick Morrisey has described the approach as a 20-year strategy, while Google has announced a multibillion-dollar project there.

That’s the model America should pursue: more capacity, in more places, with smarter rules.

THE WAR ON DATA CENTERS JEOPARDIZES OUR ECONOMY AND NATIONAL SECURITY

Technology companies have a role, too. In March, Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI, Oracle and xAI signed the White House’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge, committing to bring or buy power for their facilities and cover required infrastructure upgrades rather than shift those costs onto households.

Get that sequencing right, and there’s a benefit even the buildout critics tend to overlook: the trades.

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Building a data-center campus requires a large skilled workforce, including electricians, pipefitters and high-voltage crews. Meta’s president estimates the U.S. could need roughly 500,000 additional electricians alone to support the AI infrastructure buildout. Microsoft’s president has called the electrician shortage the company’s biggest constraint. That’s why Google, Microsoft and the electrical workers’ union are pouring money into apprenticeships that lead to well-paying careers without student debt.

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We don’t have to choose between Gary Elder’s electric bill and America’s technological lead. We can do both. When those presidential nominees face the data-center question in 2028, they can say: "We kept bills affordable while keeping America in the lead."

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GOV MIKE DUNLEAVY: China is holding critical minerals hostage. Alaska can help end the threat

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 05:00:43 -0400

America’s ability to compete with China hinges on secure access to critical minerals. That strategic imperative must guide federal policy on the resources that undergird our technology, economy and national defense. It’s not an exaggeration to say that, without access to the critical minerals that form the backbone of our modern technological infrastructure, our economy would face major challenges growing and sustaining new jobs and equipping our military with the systems that keep us safe.

Here in Alaska, our state hosts resources of 57 of the 60 most important critical minerals. These critical minerals include rare earth elements used in hard drives and laptops, smartphones and electric motors. They also include graphite, an important component of batteries used in electric cars and computers. Graphite is not only a critical mineral, but also one essential to national security as designated under the Defense Production Act.

Among its many mineral deposits, Alaska holds a bountiful reserve of graphite in the aptly named Graphite Creek Project. New estimates suggest that this one reserve alone could provide enough graphite to meet the entire nation’s needs for a century. Yet in recent years, rather than developing these American natural resources, the Biden administration instead frittered away $150 million in taxpayer funds on a loan to a graphite facility in Mozambique — a facility that eventually shuttered operations.

THE CCP CONTROLS THE MOST INTIMATE ELEMENTS OF OUR LIFE. MOST AMERICANS HAVE NO IDEA

Leftists believe that ending American production of critical minerals will somehow cure the world’s environmental problems. In reality, it has only moved production overseas, to countries with lower environmental and worker-safety standards. It has also increased our economic dependence on countries with unstable governments — like Mozambique, where the graphite mine was caught up in civil unrest linked to ISIS-affiliated terror groups — or interests opposed to our own, such as China.

Not developing projects like Graphite Creek amounts to waving the white flag of surrender to China in our contest to shape the future of the world economy. Its Communist government has already used critical minerals to engage in economic blackmail, holding access to the minerals hostage to protest American trade policy. Americans should never agree to this extortion — and, by developing our own American resources, we need never do so.

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

Thankfully, President Trump understands Alaska’s needs and the imperative for the United States to establish dominance in critical minerals, just as it does in energy. Upon resuming office last year, the president immediately issued an executive order to unleash Alaska’s extraordinary resource potential, because Alaska "holds an abundant and largely untapped supply of natural resources" that "will raise the prosperity of our citizens while helping to enhance our Nation’s economic and national security for generations to come."

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Indeed, developing the Graphite Creek Project will create quality, high-paying jobs right here in Alaska. More importantly, by ensuring that we develop one of the critical minerals integral to the global economy, it will ensure that our nation’s businesses and innovators will have unfettered access to the resources they need.

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It’s a simple equation: American energy dominance and American critical-mineral dominance will lead to American economic dominance for decades to come.

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Inside the dangerous US mission that cleared Iran’s mines from Hormuz shipping lanes

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 05:00:38 -0400

President Donald Trump declared last week that the United States had removed or detonated all mines in international waters in the Strait of Hormuz.

Now, the commander of U.S. Central Command has offered the clearest public account yet of the high-stakes operation behind that declaration: a monthslong effort in which U.S. forces quietly cleared Iranian sea mines from established international shipping lanes used by commercial vessels.

Other threats still stand between the cleared lanes and a return to normal activity in one of the world’s most important waterways. The latest maritime guidance still classifies the Strait at a "SEVERE" threat level. Recent attacks have struck tankers near Oman, and oil flows remain far below prewar levels.

"We have successfully cleared sea mines in the Strait’s international shipping lanes that were laid months ago by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps," CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper said in a video update.

TRUMP SAYS IRAN’S NAVY ‘OBLITERATED’ AS US ENFORCES HORMUZ BLOCKADE — BUT KEY THREAT REMAINS

"Internationally recognized transit routes in the Strait are free of Iranian sea mines thanks to the incredible work of the U.S. military," Cooper said.

Cooper identified the cleared area as the Strait’s Traffic Separation Scheme, the long-standing system of opposing lanes that guides commercial vessels through the narrow waterway between Iran and Oman.

"Our forces meticulously and quietly cleared them of sea mine threats using a combination of Navy divers, Navy SEALs and U.S. air power from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps," Cooper said.

The operation was carried out as the Navy was in the middle of a major transition in how it handles mine warfare.

The service had retired its four Bahrain-based mine countermeasure ships the previous year as newer unmanned systems were still being fielded. In April, defense analyst Bryan Clark told Fox News Digital the Navy was at a "nadir" in its mine-sweeping capacity.

At the time, retired Vice Adm. Kevin Donegan, who previously commanded the Navy’s 5th Fleet, said newer technology was increasingly being used to locate and neutralize mines, including unmanned systems that map the seabed and identify potential threats before explosive ordnance teams move in.

Cooper’s account now shows U.S. forces relied on a broader combination of Navy divers, SEALs and air power to clear the international shipping lanes. CENTCOM has not disclosed the precise role each capability played.

"The circumstances were challenging and dangerous to say the least, but we got the job done," Cooper said. "Bottom line, today, international shipping lanes are open and momentum is building."

Donegan, who was not involved in the current operation, said mine-clearance operations begin with surface and subsurface vessels, including unmanned systems, locating and identifying possible mines. Once mines are identified, autonomous systems, specially trained Navy divers and SEALs can destroy or neutralize them.

Different sections of a waterway can be at different stages of the process at the same time, Donegan said, with forces neutralizing mines in one area while detection and identification continue elsewhere.

Throughout the operation, the Navy continues scanning the waterway to ensure it has not missed any mines, he said.

Donegan said the Navy uses a sophisticated detection model before declaring a waterway clear.

"In simplest terms, they have to conduct enough sweeps of the lanes to drive the probability of detection of mines to virtually 100% in the model," he said.

Donegan said the calculation takes into account factors including the detection systems and their effectiveness, characteristics of the waterway and the type of seabed.

WHITE HOUSE SILENT ON IRAN-OMAN HORMUZ PLAN TEHRAN SAYS WOULD BAN US WARSHIPS

The Navy has also spent years preparing for such an operation. Donegan said elements of large-scale mine clearance in the Strait have been practiced through recurring NAVCENT mine-countermeasure exercises dating to 2012, along with regular Navy training.

Cooper said U.S. forces have assisted nearly 1,500 commercial vessels through the Strait in recent months by providing coordinated protection. Those ships carried nearly 750 million barrels of crude oil bound for global energy markets, he said.

The CENTCOM commander said the military is pursuing two missions at once: enforcing a naval blockade on Iran and protecting commercial passage through the Strait. He said that since the blockade resumed in mid-July, U.S. forces have turned around 75 vessels attempting to run it and disabled three that failed to comply with directions.

Cooper did not say how many mines U.S. forces found or destroyed.

Axios reported Thursday, citing U.S. officials, that American forces swept more than 200 mine-like objects from the main shipping lane. Of those objects, 11 were actual mines, and only a few had been properly deployed.

The figures illustrate the painstaking identification process Donegan described: Forces must investigate possible threats before determining which objects are actually mines.

CENTCOM has not provided further details on the systems used during the operation or how individual mines were neutralized. A defense official told Fox News Digital that the military would not discuss operational specifics for security reasons.

The broader maritime-security picture has yet to catch up with CENTCOM’s declaration.

The latest Joint Maritime Information Center advisory, issued through the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations office on Aug. 25, keeps the Strait of Hormuz at a "SEVERE" threat level and says deliberate hostile action remains highly likely.

The advisory says mine-danger areas remain active and warns of a continued risk from drifting or uncharted mines in and near the Traffic Separation Scheme. It says clearance and mine-surveying operations continue throughout the Strait and that commercial traffic is expected to remain below prewar levels.

The assessment predates Cooper’s video update. No public advisory downgrading the threat level or lifting the underlying warnings had been issued as of Friday.

Donegan said the possibility of drifting mines does not disappear entirely after a route has been cleared.

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"In the Gulf there is always the danger of drifting mines that are not fixed, that are left over from this conflict or previous ones in the region," Donegan said. "That threat from those in the Gulf has historically been very low, especially due to currents in that area that make it unlikely that drifting mines stay in the lane and contact a commercial vessel."

Commercial crews are also still confronting attacks.

UKMTO reported that tankers near Oman were struck by unknown projectiles on Aug. 24 and Aug. 25, setting off fires that crews later extinguished. All crew members were reported safe in both incidents. The public alerts did not identify the vessels or attribute the strikes.

Oil flows through the Strait stood at about 5 million barrels per day Monday, down from more than 20 million before the war, according to Reuters, which cited provisional Vortexa tracking data.

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The recovery remains uneven. Reuters reported Friday that seven commodity vessels transited the Strait on Thursday, down from 17 the day before and below the 10-day average of 15 vessels, based on preliminary shipping data.

Iran and Oman separately announced this week that they were discussing a temporary joint navigation corridor and a joint mine-clearance project. Their statements did not specify whether that work would cover the same Traffic Separation Scheme CENTCOM says U.S. forces have cleared.

Cooper’s announcement provides the most detailed official account yet of the operation behind Trump’s declaration and marks a significant step toward restoring commercial passage through the Strait.

The U.S. military says the recognized commercial lanes are open and protected. But the latest maritime risk guidance, continued attacks and sharply reduced traffic show that the broader Strait remains dangerous and disrupted.

My family fled the ‘butchers’ in Iran 50 years ago. We can’t give them what they want

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 05:00:33 -0400

On Tuesday, Aug. 25, President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. Navy has removed or detonated every Iranian mine in the international waters of the Strait of Hormuz. Tankers are moving again, gas prices should finally start to ease and Washington will be tempted to exhale. That would be a mistake. It took the most powerful navy on Earth six months to undo Tehran’s damage to the strait. The 60-day negotiating window produced nothing; Iran's foreign ministry said the deadline "essentially has no relevance," and the regime that just lost this round is already winding the next clock.

I know that clock. My family lived under it before we fled Iran, a Jewish family that watched the revolution turn our homeland into a place where we could no longer safely exist.

Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and the rest of the regime leadership are not trying to beat the American military; they are trying to outlast the American taxpayer, and the regime is banking its survival on exactly that.

TRUMP OPENS HORMUZ UNDER FIRE WITH ‘PROJECT FREEDOM’ AS IRAN WARNS OF ATTACKS

A year after Operation Midnight Hammer and the 12-Day War showed the world what American power can do in a matter of days, the American public’s worst fear is materializing anyway: a drawn-out conflict. The strait may be reopening, but the squeeze of the past six months reached pocketbooks nationwide, midterm elections are approaching and Washington is debating how, and how fast, to prosecute this war.

The longer this war runs, the more the Iranian regime gains. The only question that matters is whether America fights the war Tehran designed or the war America can win. Since 1979, the dictatorship has run the same play, which U.S. officials have long described as "deception, defiance and delay." Buy time, bleed the adversary, survive to rebuild. The arithmetic of this war was built for that play. Tehran fields a Shahed suicide drone for about $20,000; America answers with Patriot interceptors at roughly $4 million each. Iran maintains the capacity to manufacture an estimated 10,000 drones a month, has begun rebuilding its missile facilities, and is moving valuable assets underground.

Every truce and every pause becomes a rearmament window for Iran. Tehran is not waiting alone. The regime signed a 20-year strategic partnership with Russia, is receiving more than a thousand tons of missile-making chemicals from China, and collaborates on missile technology with North Korea.

Each arrangement lowers what it costs the ayatollah to keep firing, which means our gravest geopolitical rivals are helping underwrite the missiles aimed at us. The rest of the bill lands on Iran’s neighbors, as the regime strikes airports, shipping and commercial districts across the Gulf states, from Dubai to Doha, to spread the pain and build pressure for American concessions.

IRAN TAPS FINANCIAL LIFELINE, RUSSIAN ARMS AS TRUMP ESCALATES 'CRUSHING' ECONOMIC WARFARE

A U.N. fact-finding mission found Iran responsible for the systematic rape and brutalization of women. Iran’s laws make homosexuality punishable by death, and the regime persecutes ethnic and religious minorities as policy. My family was one of those minorities. My mother pulled my brother and me out of Iran because being Jewish there had become dangerous, and she rebuilt our lives in America from nothing.

In January, after a nationwide uprising, the regime reportedly murdered more than 30,000 people, most of them students and young people, in just two days. It has carried out nearly a thousand executions since. Those are my people, Jewish and Muslim alike. I am now a mother of four daughters, and I think about the mothers in Tehran raising girls under a regime that treats their bodies as state property. Every day this regime survives, more of them die waiting for the world to act.

IRAN’S KILLER DRONES INCREASE SLAUGHTER IN SUDAN AMID WORLD’S FORGOTTEN WAR

The violence has never been limited to its own captive citizens. Iran’s proxies killed 241 U.S. service members in the 1983 Beirut barracks bombing and at least 603 more in Iraq, by the Pentagon’s own count. The regime has funded anti-Israel protesters inside America, interfered in our elections, and plotted to assassinate American officials, including the president. I have seen that campaign up close.

My daughter was a student at Columbia when the encampments took over campus, and she testified before Congress about what Jewish students were facing. The regime's reach into American institutions is not abstract to my family. For Tehran, delay is not a pause. It is an opportunity to extract more blood and damage America from within.

Some in Washington counsel patience. The blockade is biting, they note, and U.S. intelligence has assessed the regime can withstand roughly 90 to 120 more days. But two things can be true at once. The blockade is hurting the regime and the regime does not care.

The ayatollah will starve his own people, shake down his neighbors and cut backroom deals with Moscow and Beijing before he yields. Meanwhile, every passing day writes another costly line in America’s ledger. A war of attrition is the one war this regime can win, because it built the war that way on purpose.

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That leaves three roads. A long war, which Tehran wins on price. An accommodation, which leaves the regime its missiles, its nuclear ambitions and its proxies, and buys a pause, which they will spend preparing the next round. Or a decisive end to the war on America’s terms.

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Simply weakening the regime without ending it just kicks the can down the road. The United States must destroy the regime’s military-industrial capacity, cripple the energy infrastructure that bankrolls the Revolutionary Guard and break its ability to crush the Iranian people who keep rising against it. My family fled the butchers who stole my country nearly five decades ago, and I have spent every year since watching the world try to manage, contain and negotiate with them. The Iranian people are not our enemy; they are the regime’s first hostages. America proved in Operation Midnight Hammer what the most powerful military in human history can do, and it is our job to finish the job.

Abdul El-Sayed shares dozens of donors with ex-GOP candidate at center of antisemitism controversy

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 05:00:22 -0400

Michigan U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed shares nearly two dozen donors with former Republican congressional candidate Dan Bilzerian, whose campaign included antisemitic attacks against Rep. Randy Fine, R-Fla.

El-Sayed and Bilzerian are on opposite sides of the political spectrum, but both have criticized U.S. support for Israel and called on the United States to cease all aid to the Jewish state.

Bilzerian has supported the Trump administration’s mass deportation efforts, while El-Sayed has called for abolishing ICE. Bilzerian has called for lower taxes and less regulation, while El-Sayed has called for higher taxes on the wealthy and Medicare for All.

The two candidates’ shared donors have contributed more than $61,000 to their campaigns, according to a Fox News Digital review of FEC filings for both campaigns. The shared donors gave $23,144.12 to Bilzerian's campaign and approximately $38,626.20 to El-Sayed's campaign.

EL-SAYED CAMPAIGN BACKED BY OVER $100,000 FROM DOZENS OF MEMBERS OF GROUP WITH ALLEGED TERROR TIES

Bilzerian lost to Fine in the primary, and his campaign tactics and advertisements drew sharp criticism from Republican leaders. His attacks against Fine, who is Jewish, included a 2½-minute AI-generated campaign ad calling Fine a "fat Jew" as well as other antisemitic remarks.

"Jewish supremacy is the greatest threat to the world today," Bilzerian told Fox News Digital in response to a request for comment.

Meanwhile, El-Sayed, who has routinely accused Israel of committing "genocide" against the Palestinian people, has drawn criticism for his associations with social media influencer Hasan Piker, who said the terrorist group Hamas was "a thousand times better than the fascist settler colonial apartheid state," referring to Israel.

Donors to both El-Sayed and Bilzerian include prominent critics of Israel, such as Georgia attorney Ibrahim Awad of Awad Law Firm. He contributed $12,651.88 through a joint fundraising committee supporting Bilzerian’s campaign on April 25, 2026. It is unclear how much of that contribution was attributed to Awad. Fox News Digital reached out to Awad for comment.

EL-SAYED DISTANCES HIMSELF FROM HASAN PIKER AFTER DISTURBING REMARKS ABOUT JEWISH AMERICANS

A little more than a month earlier, Awad donated $7,000 to El-Sayed’s campaign.

Awad, whose mother was born in Gaza, has been a vocal critic of Israel and has accused the Jewish state of committing a Holocaust in Gaza that may be worse than the Holocaust during World War II.

"It’s a Holocaust," Awad shared during an appearance on the "Sumud Podcast" hosted by Dr. Ed Hasan. "Like, it’s present day. There are so many ways that it’s even worse than [the] World War II Holocaust because it’s happening in real time right in front of us."

Awad appeared on the podcast in August 2025, when he decried Zionism as a "toxic way of thinking."

"That’s the poisonous sin, right? The toxicity of Zionism," Awad said. "It’s all rooted in this supremacy. Racism is rooted in this supremacy. Slavery is rooted in this supremacy."

He said he distinguishes Judaism from Zionism but argued that Palestinians should not be responsible for explaining that distinction.

MICHIGAN SENATE RACE: EL-SAYED’S TIES TO EXTREMIST FUEL ANTISEMITISM CONCERNS AMONG JEWISH VOTERS

"The onus is on the oppressor," Awad said. "I mean, about whether you’re coming in, and you’re saying, ‘Hey, Israel is a Jewish state,’ and that same Jewish state is coming in and spray-painting the walls with the Star of David, and then I have to now, as the victim whose home was stolen, say, ‘Oh no, it’s not that you’re a bad Jew. It’s that you’re just a Zionist settler.’

"Nonetheless, we take the high ground, and we distinguish, and we say, ‘No, this is Zionism, right? This is Jewish supremacy. That is antithetical to Judaism, right? But that’s what it is,'" Awad continued.

Awad also rejected the characterization of the Palestinian resistance as "terrorism."

Meanwhile, Hussein "Sam" Mahrouq, a Texas resident and owner of Enterprises International, which is the parent company of AutoMax and Dollar Rent-A-Car, donated $3,500 to El-Sayed's campaign from May 2025 to April 2026.

He also contributed more than $1,000 through a joint fundraising committee supporting Bilzerian. Mahrouq has donated to other candidates critical of Israel, including Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., and former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga.

He also donated $400,000 to American Priorities PAC, which was created this year to counter the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, the New York Post reported.

Mahrouq shared during an appearance on the podcast "Bigger than Business" that he is the child of Palestinian refugees.

In a statement, Mahrouq did not directly answer Fox News Digital's question about whether El-Sayed and Bilzerian's stances on Israel factored into his decision to donate.

MICHIGAN SENATE CANDIDATE CONFRONTED REPEATEDLY OVER ISRAEL’S RIGHT TO EXIST, DEFUNDING THE POLICE

"I have made contributions and donations to many different candidates, organizations, community initiatives and charitable projects over the years," Mahrouq said. "A contribution should not be interpreted as an endorsement of every position taken by a candidate or organization."

Muhi Khwaja, co-founder of the American Muslim Community Foundation, donated $625 to El-Sayed’s campaign and $26.68 to Bilzerian’s campaign.

Khwaja described a visit to Gaza in a November 2023 essay and advocated for building support for Palestinians beyond the Arab world.

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"The Israel-Hamas war has made one thing clear: The philanthropic world can no longer turn a blind eye to the collective punishment facing Palestinians," Khwaja wrote. "As a student of philanthropy, I believe in the love of humankind. As a Muslim, I believe in compassion for all. My Jewish friends and colleagues believe in Tikkun olam — repairing the world. But Israel’s actions in Gaza are doing the opposite."

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Fox News Digital reached out to El-Sayed's campaign and Khwaja for comment. Awad was also contacted for comment.

Dozens of illegal alien truck drivers busted with licenses from deep blue states

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 05:00:06 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: A multi-agency operation in Arizona’s Yuma Sector led to the arrest of 95 illegal alien truck drivers earlier this month, striking at the heart of human and drug smuggling operations at the U.S. southern border.

All 95 drivers had acquired state-issued commercial driver’s licenses; 76 from California, six from New York and the rest from a handful of other states, according to Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

The apprehensions continue to demonstrate the high volume of narcotics and human trafficking smuggling operations that are alive and well at the border — even as immigration numbers have plummeted in recent months.

CHAOTIC BORDER CHASE ENDS WITH ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FOUND CRAMMED IN SEMITRUCK SLEEPING AREA

"We are committed to protecting our citizens from all international threats, whether that is from unlicensed or untrained drivers, or transnational criminal organizations engaged in human or drug trafficking," Acting Chief Patrol Agent Dustin Caudle said in a statement to Fox News Digital.

Since the end of 2024, border crossings have plummeted, going from over 144,000 encounters in December 2024 to just 33,000 in July.

Even so, CBP has reported several high-profile smuggling attempts that have sought to bring weapons, narcotics and humans across the U.S. border.

Earlier this year, CBP released reports on how it had prevented a car carrying a rocket-propelled grenade launcher from crossing the border, detected dozens of immigrants crammed into a semi-truck and even detained a boat off the coast of the Dominican Republic with the help of a Black Hawk helicopter.

TRUMP ADMIN INVESTIGATING 75 TRUCK DRIVER SCHOOLS FOR FRAUD, HELPING NON-CITIZENS GET LICENSES

Trucking, in particular, has been a key way in which smugglers have sought to bring weapons and humans into the country.

According to CBP, the bust earlier this month, which took place between Aug. 10 and 14, also stopped two human-smuggling events, resulting in the arrest of four smugglers and 17 smuggled aliens. Additionally, agents seized 74 pounds of methamphetamine and 169 pounds of marijuana. In total, authorities arrested 143 suspects from 18 countries.

To prevent schemes like these, the Department of Transportation (DOT) is finalizing a rule to prevent unqualified drivers from obtaining CDLs.

If implemented, the rule would limit CDLs to H-2A, H-2B, and E-2 nonimmigrant status holders — types of visas with more stringent vetting requirements.

The rule would also prevent an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as a way to prove eligibility, citing lax reporting and scrutiny on their approvals.

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT TRUCKERS ACCUSED OF MOWING DOWN AMERICANS IGNITE FURY OVER LOOPHOLES UNLEASHING DEADLY ROADS

"Moving forward, unqualified foreign drivers will be unable to get a license to operate an 80,000-pound big rig," Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in a press release about the rule.

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"Under President Trump’s leadership, we are putting the safety of the driving public first," Duffy continued. "From enforcing English language standards to holding fraudulent carriers accountable, we will continue to attack this crisis on our roads head-on."

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