News Archives - Page 13 of 909

Iran’s top diplomat strikes a hard line on US talks, saying Tehran’s power comes from saying ‘no’

February 8, 2026

By JON GAMBRELL - Associated Press

Iran’s top diplomat says Tehran’s strength comes from its ability to “say no to the great powers.” Sunday’s statement follows recent nuclear negotiations with the United States and nationwide protests that shook Iran. Speaking at a summit in Tehran, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized Iran’s right to enrich uranium, a key issue with President Donald Trump. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also described talks in Oman with the U.S. as “a step forward.” However, Araghchi’s remarks highlight ongoing challenges. The U.S. has moved military assets to the region, increasing pressure on Iran.

Hard hats and dummy plates: Reports of ICE ruses add to fears in Minnesota

February 7, 2026

By JAKE OFFENHARTZ - Associated Press

Legal observers and officials say they have received a growing number of reports of federal agents impersonating construction workers, delivery drivers and in some cases anti-ICE activists in Minnesota. Not all of those incidents have been verified during the ongoing immigration crackdown. But they have heightened fears in a state already on edge. They add to legal groups’ concerns about the Trump administration’s dramatic reshaping of immigration enforcement tactics nationwide. Supporters of the immigration crackdown say the sprawling network of anti-ICE activists in Minneapolis has forced federal agents to adopt new methods of avoiding detection.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi hopes for big win as polls open in national elections

February 7, 2026

By MARI YAMAGUCHI and FOSTER KLUG - Associated Press

Polls opened Sunday in Japanese parliamentary elections that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi hopes will give her struggling governing party a big enough win to be able to push forward an ambitious conservative political agenda. Takaichi is hugely popular, but the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, which has governed Japan for most of the last seven decades, is not. She called Sunday’s snap elections hoping to turn that around. She wants to make progress on a right-wing agenda to boost Japan’s economy and military capabilities as tensions grow with China. The ultraconservative Takaichi, who took office as Japan’s first female leader in October, pledged to succeed on the job with “work, work, work.”

Thailand votes in early election with 3 main parties vying for power

February 7, 2026

By GRANT PECK - Associated Press

Voters in Thailand are heading to the polls for an early general election. The election is seen as a three-way race among competing visions of progressive, populist and old-fashioned patronage politics. The polls are being held amid slow economic growth and heightened nationalist sentiment. More than 50 parties are competing. But only three have the organization and popularity to gain a winning mandate. It’s widely projected that no single party will gain a majority. So a coalition government is likely. The progressive People’s Party is favored to win a plurality. But the rival Bhumjaithai and Pheu Thai parties may join forces to block its path to power.

Washington Post publisher Will Lewis says he’s stepping down, days after big layoffs at the paper

February 7, 2026

By DAVID BAUDER - AP Media Writer

Washington Post publisher Will Lewis says he’s stepping down, three days after the troubled newspaper said that it was laying off one-third of its staff. Lewis sent an email Saturday to the Post’s staff, saying that “difficult decisions have been taken in order to ensure the sustainable future of The Post.” Lewis and the newspaper’s billionaire owner Jeff Bezos, did not participate in a meeting with staff announcing the layoffs this week. The Post’s chief financial officer, Jeff D’Onofrio, was named acting publisher and CEO. The British-born Lewis was a former top executive at The Wall Street Journal before taking over at The Post in January 2024. His tenure has been rocky from the start, marked by layoffs and a failed reorganization plan.

‘We will pay,’ Savannah Guthrie says in desperate video plea to potential kidnappers of her mother

February 7, 2026

AP

Savannah Guthrie has told the potential kidnappers of her mother Nancy Guthrie that the family is prepared to pay for her safe return. Savannah Guthrie appeared in a video on Instagram on Saturday while flanked by her two siblings. She said: “We received your message and we understand … This is very valuable to us, and we will pay.” It was not immediately clear if Guthrie was referring to a new message from someone who might have kidnapped Nancy Guthrie. The frantic search for the 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie has entered a seventh day. Authorities have not identified any suspects or ruled anyone out.

Police arrest protesters at Minneapolis federal building on 1-month anniversary of woman’s death

February 7, 2026

AP

Several dozen protesters were arrested outside a federal building in Minneapolis on the one-month anniversary of Renee Good’s death. A federal immigration officer shot and killed Good in her car in Minneapolis on Jan. 7. Her death and that of another protester, Alex Pretti, just weeks later have sparked outrage over President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. Scores of protesters gathered Saturday outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building. The crowd threw bottles and sex toys at police officers. The Hennepin County Sheriff’s office said police started making arrests after the crowd threw ice chunks, hitting a deputy in the head and breaking the windshield of a squad vehicle. The sheriff’s office told television station KSTP later that at least 42 arrests were made.

Appeals court affirms Trump policy of jailing immigrants without bond

February 7, 2026

By SAFIYAH RIDDLE - Associated Press

A federal appeals court has ruled that President Donald Trump’s administration can continue detaining immigrants without bond. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals decided on Friday that the Department of Homeland Security’s policy aligns with the constitution and federal immigration law. Circuit Judge Edith H. Jones stated that unadmitted aliens arrested in the U.S. are ineligible for bond release. This decision reverses nearly 30 years of precedent, allowing mandatory detention. Circuit Judge Dana M. Douglas dissented, arguing the policy overrides the lawmaking process. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi praised the ruling as a victory for Trump’s agenda.

Israel says Netanyahu will meet with Trump on Wednesday about Iran talks

February 7, 2026

By NATALIE MELZER - Associated Press

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on Wednesday about the U.S. talks with Iran. Iran’s foreign minister threatened U.S. military bases in the region a day after indirect discussions in Oman. Netanyahu’s office on Saturday said the prime minister believes that negotiations must include limiting Iran’s ballistic missiles and ending its support for armed proxies. Friday’s talks were on how to approach discussions over Tehran’s nuclear program. Trump called the talks “very good” and said more were planned for early next week. Concerns remain high about possible regional conflict.

Republicans rarely criticize Trump in his second term. A racist post briefly changed that

February 7, 2026

By MATT BROWN - Associated Press

President Donald Trump is facing rare criticism from his Republican Party over a racist video. Trump’s White House removed a video that contained a racist image of former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama after a bipartisan blowback from lawmakers on Capitol Hill. The condemnation from congressional Republicans marked a rare moment of pushback from GOP lawmakers, who otherwise rarely criticize Trump in public. Trump said that he did not support the racist parts of the video and declined to apologize. Democrats and supporters of the Obamas rallied to the former first couple’s defense

Jets hire Seth Ryan, son of Rex Ryan, as offensive passing game coordinator, AP source says

February 7, 2026

By DENNIS WASZAK Jr. - AP Pro Football Writer

A person familiar with the move tells The Associated Press that the New York Jets are hiring Seth Ryan as their offensive passing game coordinator. The son of former Jets head coach Rex Ryan spent the last five seasons with Detroit, including as the Lions’ assistant tight ends coach last year. He’ll assist new Jets offensive coordinator Frank Reich. ESPN first reported the hiring. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the Jets didn’t announce the hiring. Ryan joins his father and late grandfather Buddy as the third generation of coaches from the family to work with the Jets.

Italians collect medals on a feel-good first day for the hosts at the Milan Cortina Olympics

February 7, 2026

By KEN MAGUIRE - AP Sports Writer

Francesca Lollobrigida led a tricolor day for Italy at the Milan Cortina Olympics. The speedskater won gold in the women’s 3,000 meters after Giovanni Franzoni took silver in the men’s downhill ahead of Italian teammate Dominik Paris for bronze on the same slope Saturday. Swiss skier Franjo von Allmen had the honor of winning the first gold medal of the 2026 Games. American cross-country skier Jessie Diggins finished eighth in the 20-kilometer women’s skiathlon. Frida Karlsson of Sweden won the event. Lindsey Vonn completed another downhill training run and was set for Sunday’s medal race despite having a torn left ACL.

Tourists stopped from seeing The Last Supper, while Olympic VIPs including Vance visit

February 7, 2026

By MARÍA TERESA HERNÁNDEZ - Associated Press

Tourists in Milan during the Winter Olympics faced disappointment as access to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper was closed for three and a half days. The painting, located in Santa Maria delle Grazie, is a major attraction. A sign outside stated the closure dates without explanation. However, VIPs, including U.S. Vice President JD Vance, were allowed in. Traffic and public transport were disrupted in the area. The painting, created using a vulnerable dry technique, is preserved under strict conditions. Visitors typically have limited time to view it, ensuring its ongoing conservation.

How aggressive free agency moves led the Patriots and Seahawks to the Super Bowl

February 7, 2026

By JOSH DUBOW - AP Pro Football Writer

The New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks have defied the odds by reaching the Super Bowl after aggressive free agency spending. The Patriots spent more than $364 million, securing key players like Milton Williams and Stefon Diggs. General Manager Eliot Wolf emphasized a culture shift and intentional player selection. The Seahawks, spending more than $205 million, signed quarterback Sam Darnold and made strategic draft picks, bolstered by trades. Coach Mike Macdonald praised the balance of the draft and free agency. While free agency fueled success, both teams acknowledge it’s not a guaranteed strategy for future seasons.

Speedskater Francesca Lollobrigida wins host Italy’s first gold medal of the Milan Cortina Olympics

February 7, 2026

By HOWARD FENDRICH - AP National Writer

Speedskater Francesca Lollobrigida has won host Italy’s first gold medal of the Milan Cortina Games by taking the women’s 3,000 meters in an Olympics-record time. With fans rising to their feet and roaring for her as she competed on her 35th birthday, Lollobrigida finished Saturday’s race in 3 minutes, 54.28 seconds. That was more than two seconds faster than runner-up Ragne Wiklund of Norway. Valerie Maltais of Canada was third. Lollobrigida was competing in her fourth Olympics and earned her first gold. She collected one silver and one bronze four years ago in Beijing.

Mariah Carey’s Olympic act prompts questions about possible lip-syncing and a curious teleprompter

February 7, 2026

By STEFANIE DAZIO - Associated Press

Pop star Mariah Carey’s performance at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony was the talk of the town but raised a few questions. The American singer’s rendition of Italian classic “Nel Blu Dipinto di Blu” or “Volare” was a showstopping highlight in Friday’s spectacle that kicked off the Games. She received many rave reviews. But her performance also prompted a good deal of criticism online. Commenters were confused why an Italian singer wasn’t given the honor. Some noted a large teleprompter with a phonetic breakdown of the song’s Italian lyrics. Others wondered if she was lip-syncing.

Armchair detectives flood social media as search for Savannah Guthrie’s missing mom continues

February 7, 2026

By HALLIE GOLDEN - Associated Press

Moments after the news broke about the apparent abduction of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother, the floodgates opened on social media. The desperate search for 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie has become the latest investigation to pique the widespread interest of online armchair detectives. Authorities believe she was taken against her will from her home just outside Tucson, Arizona, a week ago. Posts across Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook and YouTube have put millions of eyeballs on tips and theories surrounding her disappearance. But they’ve also helped to amplify rumors and forced law enforcement to set the record straight on at least one crucial detail.

What is atrial fibrillation and how is it treated?

February 7, 2026

By MIKE STOBBE - AP Medical Writer

Atrial fibrillation, or A-fib, is becoming more common, but doctors say treatments are improving. The condition is a quivering or irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke and heart failure. Experts say more than 10 million Americans have it, mostly older adults. Symptoms include a pounding heartbeat and shortness of breath. Smartwatches and other devices are helping with diagnosis. Causes include genetics, high blood pressure and stress. Treatments range from medications to procedures like ablation. Experts recommend a healthy lifestyle to lower the risk.

Trump turns to US military leaders for diplomatic efforts on Iran and Ukraine

February 7, 2026

By BEN FINLEY and KONSTANTIN TOROPIN - Associated Press

President Donald Trump has taken an unusual step of turning to military leaders for high-level diplomacy. The top U.S. commander in the Middle East is involved in talks over Iran’s nuclear program. Trump’s Army secretary is engaged in negotiations on trying to end the Russia-Ukraine war. It’s not clear whether the military leaders were brought in because of their expertise, connections or to signal potentially tougher options. But the move reflects how the Trump administration has upended traditional U.S. foreign policy and diplomacy. Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner are balancing both sets of difficult negotiations.

Reporting on itself: ‘Today’ keeps it low-key in covering search for Savannah Guthrie’s mother

February 7, 2026

By DAVID BAUDER - AP Media Writer

It’s frequently a challenge for a news organization to cover a story that involves itself, or one of its employees. That was felt by the ‘Today’ show this week with the disappearance of co-host Savannah Guthrie’s mother. It’s an even more acute challenge for a news outlet built upon the idea that its personalities — and the people who watch them — are part of one big family. For each day this past week, ‘Today’ has led each broadcast reporting on 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie, reported missing from her Arizona home last weekend and feared to be a victim of abduction.

Pakistanis mourn victims of attack on Shiite mosque, in photos

February 7, 2026

By ANJUM NAVEED, M.A SHEIKH and EHSAN SHAHZAD - Associated Press

ISLAMABAD (AP) — Mourners gathered Saturday under tight security at a Shiite mosque where a deadly suicide bombing occurred on Friday on the outskirts of Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad. An affiliate of the Islamic State group claimed responsibility overnight for the attack. This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. Categories: US & World News

Epstein revelations have toppled top figures in Europe while US fallout is more muted

February 7, 2026

By JILL LAWLESS - Associated Press

The Jeffrey Epstein files have rocked Europe’s elite, revealing ties to a prince, an ambassador, and top politicians. The U.S. Department of Justice released documents that have ended careers and sparked investigations. King Charles III’s brother lost his titles and home. Ex-U.K. ambassador Peter Mandelson was fired and may face prison. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is in crisis for appointing Mandelson. Norway, Sweden and Slovakia have seen senior figures fall. Experts say the files expose Epstein’s powerful network in Europe. The fallout contrasts with a more limited impact so far in the U.S. where only a handful of prominent Epstein associates have lost their jobs.

She filmed Iran’s violent crackdown on protesters. Now she is afraid to go outside

February 7, 2026

By SARAH EL DEEB - Associated Press

The 37-year-old Iranian beautician marched with her friends through the streets in her hometown of Karaj, taking video as they chanted against Iran’s rulers. Then the firing started. Her videos, sent to a relative abroad who shared them with The Associated Press, give a taste of how a moment of collective boldness turned into fear. Now, after the harshest ever crackdown by Iran’s Islamic Republic, she is afraid to leave the house and despairs over the possibility of change ever coming to her country.

Zelenskyy says U.S. gave Ukraine and Russia a June deadline to reach agreement to end war

February 7, 2026

AP

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the U.S. has given Ukraine and Russia a June deadline to reach a peace agreement. Zelenskyy said that if the deadline is not met, the Trump administration will likely apply pressure on both sides. Zelenskyy spoke to reporters on Friday, with his comments embargoed until Saturday morning. He said the Americans want the war to end by the beginning of summer. They plan to do everything possible to achieve this goal and seek a clear schedule of events.

Islamic State affiliate claims suicide bombing that killed 31 at Shiite mosque in Pakistani capital

February 7, 2026

By MUNIR AHMED and MUHAMMAD YOUSAF - Associated Press

An affiliate of the Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for a deadly suicide bombing inside a Shiite mosque on the outskirts of Pakistan’s capital that killed 31 people and wounded 169 others. The claim came overnight. Meanwhile, mourners gathered Saturday at the same mosque for mass funerals for the victims. The regional Islamic State affiliate, known as Islamic State in Pakistan, said in a statement posted on its Amaq News Agency on Friday night that the attacker arrived at the mosque around noon and opened fire on security guards who tried to stop him at the main gate.

Photos of Singapore Air Show display ‘the latest and the greatest’ in aviation

February 7, 2026

By ANTON L. DELGADO - Associated Press

SINGAPORE, Singapore (AP) — This week’s Singapore Air Show brought together trade delegations from around the world to show off the latest in civilian and military aviation technology. The event this year marked the 10th edition of the air show, which showcased cutting-edge planes from the Royal Australian Air Force and the United States Air Force. This included the F-35…

What to know about Nancy Guthrie’s kidnapping and the race to find her

February 6, 2026

AP

It’s been a week since “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother disappeared from her home in Arizona in what authorities say was a kidnapping. Investigators have been examining ransom notes and looking for evidence but have not named a suspect. On Friday, officers returned to 84-year-old Nancy Guthrie’s home near Tucson and to the surrounding neighborhood to continue their search. Family members told officials they last saw Nancy Guthrie at 9:48 p.m. on Jan. 31 when they dropped her off at home after they ate dinner and played games together. The next day, family learned she didn’t attend church. They reported her missing after they checked on her.

Takeaways from AP report on immigrant who says ICE officers beat him during Minnesota arrest

February 6, 2026

By JACK BROOK, MICHAEL BIESECKER, JIM MUSTIAN and CEDAR ATTANASIO - Associated Press/Report for America

A Mexican immigrant who suffered a broken skull last month in Minnesota says he was beaten by immigration officers in an unprovoked attack. Alberto Castañeda Mondragón says the federal agents began hitting him right after they pulled him from a vehicle. He was hospitalized with eight skull fractures and five life-threatening brain hemorrhages. Officers claimed he ran into a wall, but medical staff immediately doubted that account. His case has sparked calls for accountability and transparency, but it’s not clear whether any authorities are investigating. The Department of Homeland Security has not responded to repeated requests for comment on the case.

Health costs are fueling voter stress — and Democratic campaigns

February 6, 2026

By ALI SWENSON and JEFF AMY - Associated Press

Democrats are focusing on health care in the midterm elections, highlighting it as a key issue. Republicans have cut Medicaid through new work requirements and declined to extend COVID-era subsidies, leading to increased costs for Affordable Care Act plans. Democrats are using campaign ads and personal stories to emphasize the impact on Americans. On Saturday, Sen. Jon Ossoff plans to address health care challenges in Georgia. Republicans have struggled to pass legislation to offset health costs, making it a weak point for them. Democrats see this as an opportunity to gain political leverage in upcoming campaigns.

Savannah Guthrie’s mother may have been kidnapped. How does law enforcement handle negotiations?

February 6, 2026

By SAFIYAH RIDDLE - Associated Press

Experts say abductions for ransom are rare, despite dramatic portrayals on TV. The apparent kidnapping of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie’s mother has raised questions about real-life hostage negotiations. Nancy Guthrie, 84, was taken from her home outside Tucson, Arizona. A local TV station received two alleged ransom letters demanding money for her return. Law enforcement hasn’t confirmed the authenticity of these notes. Experts say kidnappings for ransom are uncommon and usually involve careful planning. The family has released videos appealing to the kidnappers. Patience and avoiding media attention can be crucial in these situations.

Rivers says Bucks won’t shut down Antetokounmpo for season and will play him when he’s healthy

February 6, 2026

By STEVE MEGARGEE - AP Sports Writer

Milwaukee coach Doc Rivers reiterated that the Bucks have no plans on shutting down Giannis Antetokounmpo for the rest of the season. Rivers said Friday the two-time MVP’s return date from a calf strain remains uncertain. Rivers spoke on the issue one day after the trade deadline passed with Antetokounmpo remaining in Milwaukee. Antetokounmpo’s future had been the center of attention across the league in the weeks leading up to the deadline. Antetokounmpo hasn’t played since straining his right calf on Jan. 23. The Bucks potentially could help their draft status by continuing to rest Antetokounmpo.

Giannis Antetokounmpo joins Kalshi as a shareholder, marking a new venture for the NBA star

February 6, 2026

By JAY COHEN - AP Sports Writer

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo has become a shareholder in Kalshi, a major prediction market with a wide array of sports trading opportunities. Kalshi says Antetokounmpo is the first basketball star to join the company as a shareholder. The partnership includes help with live events and marketing. Antetokounmpo was the subject of widespread rumors ahead of Thursday’s NBA trade deadline. In the days leading up to the deadline, Kalshi had several posts on X highlighting its event contracts on Antetokounmpo’s trade market and the fluctuating odds connected to the teams believed to be in the mix for his services. According to Kalshi’s release, Antetokounmpo will be forbidden from trading on markets related to the NBA.

Two accused of $40,000+ precious metals scam

February 6, 2026

Matt McConico,

Aron Lee Melton AITKIN, Minn. – Charging documents accuse Aron Lee Melton and Kristi Ann Fox of orchestrating a scheme to pass off counterfeit gold, silver and platinum bars as the real thing. Investigators say Melton and Fox marketed precious metals on Facebook Marketplace under the name “Collect Cadillac.” Investigators say the alleged victim lost approximately $40,779. They said the…

Justice Department will allow lawmakers to see unredacted versions of released Epstein files

February 6, 2026

By STEPHEN GROVES - Associated Press

The Department of Justice will allow members of Congress to review unredacted files on the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. That’s according to a letter obtained by The Associated Press says that lawmakers starting Monday will be able to review unredacted versions of the more than 3 million files that the Justice Department has released. To access the files, lawmakers will need to give the Justice Department 24 hours advance notice. They will be able to review the files on computers at the Department of Justice. Only lawmakers and not their staff will have access to the files.

Vacationland Peer Support nonprofit holding spaghetti feed fundraiser

February 6, 2026

Emily Halling,

POPLAR, Wis.– A non-profit dedicated to helping out first responders recover mentally from traumatic experiences is hosting a spaghetti feed, to expand their efforts, across Douglas County. Vacationland Peer Support got its start, two years ago when the founder, Randy Martin, found comfort in helping others, after his time as a fire chief. Since then, he has dedicated himself, to…

Hermantown woman shares her story after explosion damages her home

February 6, 2026

Emily Halling, Nathaniel LeCapitaine,

HERMANTOWN, Minn.– Following the terrible explosion at ‘Green acres’ in Hermantown last Saturday night, one of the residents there is going back for the first time, and re-lived what she said, no one should ever go through. “I guess I just, in my whole life, never expected anything like this to happen. But I’m lucky, I’ve had many many…

Senator Amy Klobuchar and local educators speak on school ICE impacts

February 6, 2026

KQDS Staff,

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar and local educators, held a press conference on Friday, addressing ICE’s impact on school districts. Klobuchar’s visit comes days after the Duluth Public School District, joined the Fridley Public School District, and Education Minnesota in a lawsuit, to keep ICE agents off school grounds. The Duluth School District has reported decreased attendance, due…

They will have been to all 60 Super Bowls. This year is possibly their last

February 6, 2026

By PATRICK WHITTLE - Associated Press

Three fans who have attended every Super Bowl since 1967 are going again this year. But two of them say it might be their last time. Don Crisman of Maine, Gregory Eaton of Michigan and Tom Henschel of Florida are the last remaining members of the exclusive club of people who have never missed the big game. But this year’s Super Bowl is a little bittersweet: Crisman and Henschel say advancing age and mobility issues mean this is probably their final trip. Eaton, however, plans to keep going as long as he can.

Accused militant is taken into custody in the deadly 2012 Benghazi attack

February 6, 2026

By ERIC TUCKER and MICHAEL KUNZELMAN - Associated Press

The Justice Department says a key participant in the deadly 2012 attack on the U.S. compound in Benghazi, Libya, has been taken into custody and will be prosecuted in Washington in connection with the rampage that killed four Americans and became a divisive political issue. Zubayar Al-Bakoush had been wanted by the United States for more than a decade and was taken to an airfield in Virginia early Friday. He is accused of joining an armed mob that crashed the gates of the diplomatic mission and set fire to buildings. He appeared Friday afternoon in federal court. Speaking through an interpreter, Al-Bakoush said he has “complete trust in the court and the jury.” He did not enter a plea.

Aitkin County Sheriff’s Office investigating possible gold and silver scam

February 6, 2026

Jadie Jones,

AITKIN COUNTY, Minn. — The Aitkin County Sheriff’s office is investigating a possible gold and silver sales scam. Two individuals were arrested in connection to the investigation for “theft by swindle”. The individuals allegedly traded materials presented as gold or silver bars. The sheriff’s office warns the public to use caution when buying, selling, or trading gold or silver bars….

Bad Bunny look-alike contest in San Francisco draws hundreds of fans

February 6, 2026

By OLGA R. RODRIGUEZ - Associated Press

A Bad Bunny look-alike contest in San Francisco has turned into a street party as hundreds of fans gather to celebrate the global superstar. More than 30 contestants from across the Bay Area competed Thursday at a packed Mexican restaurant in the Mission neighborhood. They channeled the Puerto Rican singer with his bold looks, including straw hats and aviator hats and his signature “perreo,” or twerking, moves. The grand prize went to Abdul Ramirez Arroyave, a professional Bad Bunny impersonator who broke into song when asked to say a few words to the delight of the artist’s fans who sang along. The event took place ahead of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show this weekend.

Voting opens for MNDOT Name a Snowplow contest

February 6, 2026

Jason VanHorn,

ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Transportation has opened voting for its 2026 Name a Snowplow contest. The contest received 6,750 submissions and was narrowed down to 30 finalists. You can only vote once and select up to eight names you want to win List of finalists: 867-530 Brine AI: Arctic Intelligence Below Zero Hero Bob Chillin’ Don’t…

Leadership changes in Minnesota follow tensions among agencies over immigration enforcement tactics

February 6, 2026

By REBECCA SANTANA and ELLIOT SPAGAT - Associated Press

The Trump administration’s immigration operation in Minnesota is now being unified under U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. That announcement this week from White House border czar Tom Homan came after months of internal grumbling and infighting among agencies about how to carry out President Donald Trump’s mass deportation campaign. ICE was established more than two decades ago and has conducted street arrests through “targeted enforcement.” Homan has used that phrase to describe narrowly tailored operations with specific, individual targets. It’s a sharp contrast to the broad sweeps that had become common in Los Angeles, Chicago, Minnesota and elsewhere.

Trump’s racist post about Obamas is deleted after backlash despite White House earlier defending it

February 6, 2026

The Associated Press,

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s social media post featuring a video about election conspiracy theories and a racist depiction of former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, as primates in a jungle has been deleted. The Republican president’s Thursday night post was deleted Friday and blamed on a staffer after widespread backlash, from civil rights leaders to…

In unusual move, Republican chairman scrutinizes companies tied to husband of Rep. Ilhan Omar

February 6, 2026

By STEPHEN GROVES - Associated Press

The Republican chairman of the House Oversight Committee is requesting records related to firms partially owned by the husband of Rep. Ilhan Omar. It’s an extraordinary step of scrutinizing the spouse of a sitting House member. Rep. James Comer of Kentucky sent a letter to Timothy Mynett, a former Democratic political consultant who is married to Omar. Comer is requesting records related to a pair of companies that had a substantial jump in value between 2023 and 2024. Comer’s request marked a highly unusual move by the chair of a committee with a history of taking on politically-charged investigations, but almost always focused on government officials outside of Congress.

Actor Timothy Busfield indicted on 4 counts of sexual contact with a child

February 6, 2026

AP

A New Mexico grand jury has indicted Timothy Busfield has been indicted on four counts of criminal sexual contact with a child. A county district attorney announced the indictment Friday in a social media post. Authorities had issued an arrest warrant for Busfield over allegations of misconduct from when he was working as a director on the set of the TV series “The Cleaning Lady.” Busfield has denied the allegations. He turned himself in to authorities and later was released from jail. Busfield is best known for appearances in “The West Wing,” “Field of Dreams” and “Thirtysomething.”

Caught Again: Man accidentally released from jail is back in custody

February 6, 2026

Matt McConico,

Michael Todd Hart DULUTH, Minn. – Jail records show Michael Todd Hart is back in custody after being accidentally released. On January 21, Hart was released from the Itasca County Jail. Hart was the subject of a large manhunt when he walked away from the Northeast Regional Corrections Center (NERCC) approximately four months prior. St. Louis County and Itasca County…

Sonny Jurgensen, the strong-arm QB whose personality made him a beloved football figure, dies at 91

February 6, 2026

By BARRY WILNER and STEPHEN WHYNO - AP Sports Writers

Hall of Fame quarterback Sonny Jurgensen has died. He was 91. A spokesperson said Friday the team was informed by Jurgensen’s family about his death. Jurgensen was one of the most beloved figures in Washington football history. That went from his time with the team in 1964 through a lengthy broadcasting career alongside Sam Huff that ended in 2019. Jurgensen threw for more than 3,000 yards in a season five times with Washington and the Philadelphia Eagles during his nearly two-decade NFL career from 1957-1974.

Luigi Mangione speaks out in protest as judge sets state murder trial for June 8

February 6, 2026

By MICHAEL R. SISAK - Associated Press

Luigi Mangione spoke out in court against the prospect of back-to-back trials in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The 27-year-old Mangione on Friday told the judge presiding of the New York case against him: “It’s the same trial twice. One plus one is two. Double jeopardy by any commonsense definition.” He made the remarks as court officers were escorting him out of the courtroom after the judge scheduled his state murder trial for June 8, three months before jury selection in his federal case.

US births dropped last year, suggesting the 2024 uptick was short-lived

February 6, 2026

By MIKE STOBBE - AP Medical Writer

U.S. births slightly decreased in 2025. That’s according to new provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It reports just over 3.6 million births, about 24,000 fewer than in 2024. This decline aligns with expert predictions that the 2024 increase wouldn’t start an upward trend. The CDC updated its data last week, covering nearly all of the babies born in 2025. Final numbers may add only a few thousand more. Despite efforts to encourage births, like expanding in vitro fertilization access, the fertility rate has been declining. Economic conditions and uncertainty continue to impact childbearing decisions.

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