US & World News Archives

Trump’s failed bid to elevate an Arab American ally shows cracks in his political coalition

54 seconds ago

By JOEY CAPPELLETTI - Associated Press

Donald Trump credits the mayor of a small Detroit suburb with helping him win over Michigan’s Arab American community during the 2024 presidential campaign. And once in office, Trump nominated Amer Ghalib to be his ambassador to Kuwait. But that nomination has stalled due to Republican opposition. Ghalib says he’s no longer interested in the diplomatic post and is frustrated by the experience. The situation has strained relations between Republicans and Arab Americans, who backed Trump and were unhappy with Democrat Joe Biden’s handling of the war in Gaza. Critics accuse the Trump administration of sidelining Arab American voices and there’s widespread disappointment in that community.

What a swing House district in Colorado shows about Republicans’ immigration fallout in the midterms

5 minutes ago

By NICHOLAS RICCARDI - Associated Press

President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown in Minnesota is rattling voters in a highly competitive swing district in northern Colorado. Some Trump supporters are unnerved by the raids and the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by immigration agents. While other Trump voters also regret those deaths, they say the enforcement should continue. The district’s congressman is Republican Gabe Evans, and the former police officer who’s a Mexican American says many of the problems in Minnesota are due to Democrats inflaming the situation. Still, he’s urging the administration to focus more on criminals in its immigration operations. Democrats are targeting Evans’ district in November’s midterm elections.

The ranks of US rabbis grow more diverse, with rising numbers of women and LGBTQ people

13 minutes ago

By LUIS ANDRES HENAO - Associated Press

Rabbis and rabbinical students in the United States are more diverse than ever. That includes increasing numbers of women and LGBTQ+ people. Women from earlier generations who became rabbis marvel at the greater opportunities available today for those pursuing clergy roles. Many in the rabbinate are drawn to the deeply meaningful and fulfilling work. But they also say it’s demanding and can lead to unsustainable expectations. Still, they are hopeful of the future of the rabbinate. Academics say the diversification reflects a more diverse Jewish community overall.

Sidekick Tools Announces Upcoming Depop OTL and WhatNot Follow Features Alongside AI Updates

36 minutes ago

ACCESS Newswire

This update will expand Sidekick Tools’ automation ecosystem beyond core marketplaces by introducing Depop and WhatNot-specific features, while strengthening AI-driven workflows to support resellers managing multichannel operations at scale.NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / February 1, 2026 / Sidekick Tools (formerly Posh Sidekick), an app focused on automation for online resellers, has announced a set of upcoming feature releases…

Carlos Alcaraz beats Novak Djokovic to become the youngest man to complete a career Grand Slam

51 minutes ago

By JOHN PYE - AP Sports Writer

Carlos Alcaraz has become the youngest man ever to complete a career Grand Slam. The 22-year-old Alcaraz secured the Australian Open title with a 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 victory on Sunday over Novak Djokovic, who had never lost in his 10 previous finals at Melbourne Park. Both men were chasing history. Djokovic was bidding for an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam singles title. The top-ranked Alcaraz dropped the first set as Djokovic went out hard, but he rallied to win his seventh major title. At 22 years and 272 days, Alcaraz is the youngest man to complete a set of all four singles titles. He broke the mark set by Don Budge in the 1938 French championships.

Remotify CEO Maria Sucgang Recognized as Tatler Gen.T Leader of Tomorrow

1 hour ago

ACCESS Newswire

MANILA, PHILIPPINES / ACCESS Newswire / February 1, 2026 / Remotify, a Philippine-based employer of record (EOR) platform, announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Maria Sucgang, has been named a Tatler Gen.T Leader of Tomorrow, an annual recognition honoring founders, innovators, and changemakers shaping the future of Asia. The acknowledgment highlights leadership that combines business growth with long-term social and…

The Blessing of Good Fortune Is Here: Own Equity in a Lithium Mining Company – Elektros Inc. – at a Bottom-Basement Discount, Right Here, Right Now

1 hour ago

ACCESS Newswire

Company Retains Ludlow Consulting to Elevate Institutional-Grade Messaging, Media Relations and AI-Enabled Investor EngagementSUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / February 1, 2026 / Elektros Inc. (OTC PINK:ELEK), a hard-rock lithium mining developer with operations in Sierra Leone, today announced it has retained Ludlow Consulting as its strategic communications advisor to enhance corporate messaging, media visibility, and shareholder engagement.Elektros…

Major global news moments of January, in AP photos

8 hours ago

By The Associated Press

From front-page news to powerful moments you may have missed, this gallery features compelling images from around the world published by The Associated Press in January. Categories: US & World News

Milan’s historical trams at night as the city gears up for the Winter Olympic Games, in photos

4 hours ago

By LUCA BRUNO

MILAN, Italy (AP) — Milan’s tram network is one of Italy’s largest and oldest, with the core fleet dating back to the late 19th century. The network began with horse-drawn carriages, switching to steam in 1878 and becoming fully electrified by 1901. The polished raised cabins, wooden interiors and ornate lighting of the oldest trams still operating, dating from 1927-1930,…

Die High-End-Marke für ästhetische Medizin „Lorient” erlangt weltweite Anerkennung auf der IMCAS 2026

6 hours ago

Business Wire

PARIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Feb 1, 2026–Lorient, eine Premium-Marke für ästhetische Medizin, gab bekannt, dass sie auf dem 27. IMCAS-Weltkongress 2026 in Paris weltweite Aufmerksamkeit auf sich gezogen hat, wo sie über 15.000 Fachleute anzog und ihre Führungsrolle im Bereich der ästhetischen Innovation unter Beweis stellte.Diese Pressemitteilung enthält multimediale Inhalte. Die vollständige Mitteilung hier ansehen: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260131870051/de/Der geringe Modifikationsgrad von Lorient sorgt für eine…

La marque haut de gamme de produits esthétiques « Lorient » acquiert une renommée mondiale lors de l’IMCAS 2026

6 hours ago

Business Wire

PARIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–févr. 1, 2026–Lorient, une marque haut de gamme spécialisée dans l’esthétique, a annoncé avoir attiré l’attention mondiale lors du 27e IMCAS World Congress 2026 à Paris, qui a réuni plus de 15 000 professionnels et démontré son leadership en matière d’innovation esthétique.Ce communiqué de presse contient des éléments multimédias. Voir le communiqué complet ici : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260131130956/fr/Le faible degré de modification…

High-end Aesthetic Brand ‘Lorient’ Gains Global Prestige at IMCAS 2026

6 hours ago

Business Wire

PARIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Feb 1, 2026–Lorient, a premium aesthetic brand, announced that it has drawn global attention at the 27th IMCAS World Congress 2026 in Paris, attracting over 15,000 professionals and demonstrating its leadership in aesthetic innovation.This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260131322203/en/Lorient’s low degree of modification delivers a smooth injection experience and high biocompatibility (Image: Lorient)The highlight…

Il marchio di estetica di alta gamma “Lorient” raggiunge la fama a livello globale in occasione di IMCAS 2026

6 hours ago

Business Wire

PARIGI–(BUSINESS WIRE)–feb 1, 2026–Lorient, un marchio di estetica di alta gamma, ha annunciato di aver attirato l’attenzione a livello globale in occasione della 27ª edizione di IMCAS World Congress 2026 tenutasi a Parigi e che ha attirato oltre 15.000 professionisti, dove ha dimostrato la propria leadership nell’ambito dell’innovazione estetica.Questo comunicato stampa include contenuti multimediali. Visualizzare l’intero comunicato qui: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260131651634/it/Il basso…

La marca de estética de alta gama Lorient gana prestigio mundial en IMCAS 2026

6 hours ago

Business Wire

PARÍS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–feb. 1, 2026–Lorient, marca estética de alta gama, acaba de anunciar que ha acaparado la atención mundial en el 27.º Congreso Mundial IMCAS 2026 que se ha celebrado en París, al cual han acudido más de 15 000 profesionales y donde ha demostrado su liderazgo en innovación estética.Este comunicado de prensa trata sobre multimedia. Ver la noticia completa aquí:…

Het hoogwaardige esthetische merk ‘Lorient’ verwerft mondiale prestige op IMCAS 2026

6 hours ago

Business Wire

PARIJS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–feb 1, 2026–Lorient, een premium esthetisch merk, heeft bekendgemaakt dat het wereldwijde aandacht heeft getrokken tijdens het 27e IMCAS World Congress 2026 in Parijs. Meer dan 15.000 professionals konden hier het leiderschap van het merk op het gebied van esthetische innovatie waarnemen.Dit persbericht bevat multimedia. Bekijk hier het volledige persbericht: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260131933370/nl/De lage modifiëringsgraad van Lorient zorgt voor een soepele…

Wild beat Oilers 7-3, Hughes sets franchise record

7 hours ago

AP

Quinn Hughes had a goal and an assist to set a franchise record for defensemen by extending his point streak to eight games in the Minnesota Wild’s 7-3 win over the Edmonton Oilers. Joel Eriksson Ek, Mats Zuccarello and Brock Faber also had a goal and an assist apiece for Minnesota, which won its third straight game and now has points in five straight games. Kirill Kaprizov, Vladimir Tarasenko and Tyler Pitlick rounded out the scoring for the Wild, while Jesper Wallstedt stopped 39 shots. Leon Draisaitl, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Jack Roslovic scored for the Oilers.

Right-wing influencers are targeting Somali child care centers, leaving some fearing for safety

8 hours ago

By MORIAH BALINGIT and CHARLOTTE KRAMON - Associated Press

A video alleging fraud in Somali-run child care centers in Minneapolis has drawn attention throughout the United States. In Ohio, Gov. Mike DeWine held a news conference to debunk fraud claims about a Columbus center. In San Diego, a provider was alarmed by suspicious activity outside her day care. In Washington, police were called on right-leaning journalists investigating Somali centers. Providers say these incidents disrupt safe learning environments. The controversy began after a right-wing influencer posted a video accusing Minneapolis Somali centers of fraud. Although inspectors disproved the claims, the video intensified scrutiny and harassment of these centers.

AP Entertainment SummaryBrief at 12:02 a.m. EST

8 hours ago

AP

Mariah Carey’s secret grunge album part of tribute at MusiCares event LOS ANGELES (AP) — Mariah Carey has been honored as MusiCares Person of the Year for her musical achievements and philanthropy. Two days before the Grammy Awards, Carey enjoyed hearing performances of her hit songs by various artists. Foo Fighters, Jennifer Hudson, and John Legend were among those who…

In Minneapolis, all-encompassing immigration story tests a newsroom in midst of digital transition

8 hours ago

By DAVID BAUDER - AP Media Writer

With the eyes of a nation upon it, the Minnesota immigration enforcement effort has tested a local newsroom in the midst of a digital transformation — and it hasn’t left the local journalists overmatched. The Minnesota Star Tribune has produced some memorable stories and images over the past month. While a two-decade downturn has hollowed out many strong regional newspapers, the Star Tribune is part of a robust journalism tradition and has invested in its product, helping to make it ready for the moment. The news has compelled changes in how it does business, with the Star Tribune website’s live blog taking center stage.

Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle lead Timberwolves to a 131-114 victory over the Grizzlies

9 hours ago

By CLAY BAILEY - Associated Press

Anthony Edwards scored 33 points, Julius Randle added 27 points and seven assists, and the Minnesota Timberwolves won their fourth straight, 131-114 over the Memphis Grizzlies. Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels had 20 points apiece for the Timberwolves, Reid adding nine rebounds. Rudy Gobert grabbed 16 boards and added a pair of blocks. Ty Jerome, playing in his first game of the season after recovering from a right calf strain, led Memphis with 20 points and six assists but could not prevent the Grizzlies from losing their sixth straight. GG Jackson added 19 points and Jaylen Wells had 15.

Institutional Investor Opportunity in Lithium: Elektros Inc. Enhances Strategic Communications and Investor Outreach at an Attractive Entry Point

9 hours ago

ACCESS Newswire

Company Retains Ludlow Consulting to Elevate Institutional-Grade Messaging, Media Relations and AI-Enabled Investor EngagementSUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / January 31, 2026 / Elektros Inc. (OTC PINK:ELEK), a hard-rock lithium mining developer with operations in Sierra Leone, today announced it has retained Ludlow Consulting as its strategic communications advisor to enhance corporate messaging, media visibility, and shareholder engagement.For…

Bottom-Basement Entry to Lithium’s Next Wave: Elektros Advances Strategic Communications as Global Demand Surges

10 hours ago

ACCESS Newswire

Company Retains Ludlow Consulting to Elevate Institutional-Grade Messaging, Media Relations and AI-Enabled Investor EngagementSUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / January 31, 2026 / Elektros Inc. (OTC PINK:ELEK), a hard-rock lithium mining developer with operations in Sierra Leone, today announced it has retained Ludlow Consulting as its strategic communications advisor to enhance corporate messaging, media visibility, and shareholder engagement.The…

Garner, Adley lead Central Michigan past Bowling Green 62-59

10 hours ago

By The Associated Press

Keenan Garner scored 18 points to lead the Central Michigan Chippewas and Tamario Adley secured the victory with a jump shot with 33 seconds remaining as the Chippewas knocked off the Bowling Green Falcons 62-59 on Saturday. The Chippewas moved to 7-15 with the win and the Falcons fell to 13-9.

Bettiol and UMass defeat Eastern Michigan 70-67

11 hours ago

By The Associated Press

Leonardo Bettiol scored 20 points to lead the UMass Minutemen as the Minutemen knocked off the Eastern Michigan Eagles 70-67 on Saturday. The Minutemen improved to 14-9 with the win and the Eagles fell to 9-13.

Wowed by the agility dogs at the Westminster show? Handlers explain how it’s done

January 31, 2026

By JENNIFER PELTZ - Associated Press

They have to run a convoluted obstacle course in front of a crowd. They have to have enough focus to avoid wrong turns, enough precision to ensure their feet touch certain spots and enough speed to beat dozens of rivals. So how did the dogs in Saturday’s Westminster Kennel Club agility competition do it? Last year’s winning handler, Emily Klarman, says the key is teamwork between the dogs and the handlers. This year the agility competition kicked off the Westminster’s storied club’s milestone 150th dog show.

A Rare Entry Into the Lithium Cycle: Elektros Inc. Strengthens Investor Communications and Positions for the Next Phase of Growth

12 hours ago

ACCESS Newswire

Company Retains Ludlow Consulting to Elevate Institutional-Grade Messaging, Media Relations and AI-Enabled Investor EngagementSUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / January 31, 2026 / Elektros Inc. (OTC PINK:ELEK), a hard-rock lithium mining developer with operations in Sierra Leone, today announced it has retained Ludlow Consulting as its strategic communications advisor to enhance corporate messaging, media visibility, and shareholder engagement.For…

New Epstein files include emails between LA Olympics leader Wasserman and Ghislaine Maxwell

12 hours ago

AP

The latest collection of government files released on Jeffrey Epstein include emails from 2003 between Casey Wasserman, the head of the Los Angeles Olympics organizing committee, and Epstein’s one-time partner, Ghislaine Maxwell. Among the exchanges include Wasserman telling Maxwell “I think of you all the time. So, what do I have to do to see you in a tight leather outfit?” Wasserman released a statement saying he deeply regretted his correspondence with Maxwell and that he never had a business or personal relationship with Epstein. Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence for convictions on sex-trafficking charges.

A Once-in-a-Century Opportunity in the Lithium Theme: Elektros Inc. Advances Investor Communications to Support Growth in Critical Minerals

13 hours ago

ACCESS Newswire

Company Retains Ludlow Consulting to Elevate Institutional-Grade Messaging, Media Relations and AI-Enabled Investor EngagementSUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / January 31, 2026 / Elektros Inc. (OTC PINK:ELEK), a hard-rock lithium mining developer with operations in Sierra Leone, today announced it has retained Ludlow Consulting as its strategic communications advisor to enhance corporate messaging, media visibility, and shareholder engagement.For…

Trump says feds won’t intervene during protests in Democratic-led cities unless asked to do so

13 hours ago

By WILL WEISSERT - Associated Press

President Donald Trump says he’s instructed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem not to intervene in protests in Democratic-led cities unless local authorities request federal help. On his social media site Saturday, Trump posted that federal authorities will not participate in protests or riots, unless asked. He did not provide details on how such an order would affect immigration enforcement operations going forward but emphasized protecting federal buildings. The Trump administration has already deployed forces in several Democratic areas. Opposition to these tactics has grown, especially in Minnesota, where protests erupted after federal officers fatally shot two people in Minneapolis.

Judge orders 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his dad released from ICE detention

15 hours ago

By GEOFF MULVIHILL - Associated Press

A judge has ordered the U.S. to release a father and 5-year-old son who were taken into custody during the immigration crackdown in Minnesota. Images of preschooler Liam Conejo Ramos in a bunny hat and Spiderman backpack being surrounded by federal agents in a Minneapolis suburb on Jan. 20 added to the outcry about the immigration actions of President Donald Trump’s administration. The government says the father and son, originally from Ecuador, entered the U.S. in 2024. They were taken to a detention facility in Dilley, Texas. The judge previously ruled that they could not be removed from the U.S. for now.

MacKinnon scores twice to become the 1st 40-goal scorer of the season, Avalanche blank Red Wings 5-0

16 hours ago

By DANA GAURUDER - Associated Press

Nathan MacKinnon scored twice to become the league’s first 40-goal scorer this season and the Colorado Avalanche continued their dominance of Detroit with a 5-0 victory over the Red Wings. MacKinnon also had an assist, giving him 699 for his career. He failed to score in the previous five games, his longest drought of the season. MacKinnon increased his season point total to 91, trailing only Edmonton’s Connor McDavid. Mackenzie Blackwood secured his third shutout this season by making 28 saves.

New Bills coach Brady fills defensive coordinator job by hiring Leonhard

20 hours ago

By JOHN WAWROW - AP Sports Writer

The Buffalo Bills have hired Jim Leonhard as their defensive coordinator under new head coach Joe Brady. The 43-year-old Leonhard spent the past two seasons with the Denver Broncos, including last year as the team’s assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator. He is the second Broncos assistant to join Brady’s staff. Pete Carmichael was hired as offensive coordinator. The Bills also filled their special teams coordinator vacancy by hiring Jeff Rodgers, who spent the past eight years holding the same position with the Arizona Cardinals.

Former Prince Andrew can’t escape Epstein’s shadow as new documents reveal details about friendship

19 hours ago

By DANICA KIRKA - Associated Press

Britain’s royal family is facing a fresh round of embarrassment after the latest release of documents from the U.S. investigation into Jeffrey Epstein revealed unsavory details about the relationship between the convicted sex offender and a correspondent who appears to be the man formerly known as Prince Andrew. Emails released by the U.S. Justice Department include an invitation for Epstein to dine at Buckingham Palace, Epstein’s offer to introduce his correspondent to a 26-year-old Russian woman, and photos that appear to show Andrew kneeling over an unidentified woman who is lying on the floor. The revelations come three months after King Charles III stripped Andrew of his royal titles, including the right to be called a prince.

Judge says she won’t halt the immigration enforcement surge as a lawsuit proceeds

20 hours ago

AP

A federal judge says she won’t halt the immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota and the Twin Cities as a lawsuit over it proceeds. Judge Katherine M. Menendez on Saturday denied a preliminary injunction sought in a lawsuit filed this month by state Attorney General Keith Ellison and the mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul. It argued that the Department of Homeland Security is violating constitutional protections. The lawsuit sought a quick order to halt the enforcement action or limit its scope. Lawyers with the U.S. Department of Justice have called the lawsuit “legally frivolous.” Federal officers have fatally shot two people on the streets of Minneapolis: Renee Good on Jan. 7 and Alex Pretti on Jan. 24.

NBA suspends Philadelphia 76ers’ Paul George 25 games for violating anti-drug policy

20 hours ago

By TIM REYNOLDS - AP Basketball Writer

Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers has been suspended for 25 games for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program. The league announced the suspension on Saturday but did not disclose the substance involved. This is George’s first violation, according to the agreement between the NBA and the Players Association. The suspension will cost him approximately $11.7 million of his salary. George is expected to return on March 25 when Philadelphia faces Chicago. The 76ers are currently sixth in the Eastern Conference. George has averaged 16 points in 27 games this season, ranking third on the team.

How bomb cyclones form and create dangerous conditions

22 hours ago

By ISABELLA O'MALLEY - Associated Press

Meteorologists sometimes warn of a winter storm that could “bomb out” or become a bomb cyclone. According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this happens when a storm’s central pressure drops at least 24 millibars in 24 hours. The lower the pressure, the stronger the storm. These rapidly strengthening storms can produce heavy rain and intense winds, creating dangerous conditions. Bomb cyclones mainly occur in fall and winter when Arctic air clashes with warmer air masses. Regions prone to these storms include Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, and the Great Lakes.

Trump moved fast to cut a funding deal. It’s a striking change from the last shutdown fight

23 hours ago

By JOEY CAPPELLETTI and STEPHEN GROVES - Associated Press

President Donald Trump acted quickly to negotiate with Democratic senators on a deal to avert a government shutdown. It was a big change from his stance during last year’s record-long standoff, when he refused to budge for weeks during a shutdown. Trump’s urgency reflects a changed political landscape and mounting pressure on the Republican administration. Republicans are still dealing with the fallout from two recent fatal shootings by federal agent shootings in Minneapolis and from the 43-day shutdown last year. Some Republicans are frustrated by Trump’s deal with Democrats and are raising the possible of a prolonged shutdown fight when the House returns Monday to vote.

As officials disparage Pretti and Good, families of Black people killed by police have déjà vu

23 hours ago

By AARON MORRISON - Associated Press

The shooting deaths of white protesters Alex Pretti and Renee Good by federal officers in Minneapolis have followed a playbook that is painfully familiar to Black Americans. Authorities quickly moved to disparage the victims, only to be contradicted as more evidence emerged. Black families who have lost loved ones to police violence say the killings in Minnesota have brought back painful memories of their own fights for justice as law enforcement agencies spun up narratives to suggest officers had no other choice but to kill their relatives. Some advocates say the Minneapolis shootings should be a reminder to all Americans that injustice disproportionately impacting Black people can impact them, too.

Power outages hit Ukraine and Moldova as Kyiv struggles against the winter cold

23 hours ago

By SUSIE BLANN - Associated Press

Emergency power cuts swept across several Ukrainian cities as well as neighboring Moldova, officials said, following a commitment from the Kremlin to U.S. President Donald Trump to pause strikes on Kyiv as Ukraine continues to battle one of its bleakest winters in years. Ukraine’s Energy Minister, Denys Shmyhal, said that the outages had been caused by a technical malfunction affecting several power lines. The shortages follow weeks of Russian strikes against Ukraine’s already struggling energy grid, which have already triggered long stretches of severe power shortages. Moscow has sought to deny Ukrainian civilians heat, light and running water over the course of the war, in a strategy that Ukrainian officials describe as “weaponizing winter.”

Pet sounds: Why some dog owners share music with their 4-legged friends

23 hours ago

By CHEYANNE MUMPHREY - Associated Press

People use music to set moods, create a desired atmosphere and evoke memories of family and friends. The right song at the right time can have similar effects for some dogs. Pet owners and animal shelter workers sometimes use music as a training tool, a distraction from triggers and to create a relaxing environment for dogs kept in kennels or left alone at home. But researchers say music is context-dependent, meaning the effects vary based on dogs’ temperament, the setting, the type of tune and the volume at which it’s played. Experts say music can be a paw-sitive experience, but it’s crucial to know your dog and to stay attuned to signs of distress.

What to know about the partial government shutdown and its impact

January 31, 2026

By MEG KINNARD and KEVIN FREKING - Associated Press

The partial government shutdown is a lot different from the record-long shutdown in the fall. That’s mostly because the shutdown that began Saturday may not last long. When the House returns on Monday, lawmakers will try to pass legislation quickly that would end the shutdown. Congress has passed half this year’s funding bills, and that means several important federal agencies and programs continue to operate. Nutrition assistance programs should be unaffected. But funding is lapsing, at least temporarily, for the Pentagon and agencies such as the departments of Homeland Security and Transportation. Essential functions will continue, but workers could go without pay if the impasse drags on.

No REAL ID yet? You can still fly, but it may cost $45 without another form of accepted ID

January 31, 2026

By RIO YAMAT - AP Airlines and Travel Writer

Air travelers in the U.S. without a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification are subject to a new fee starting Sunday. The non-refundable $45 charge isn’t a penalty or fine, but payment for non-compliant travelers to use the Transportation Security Administration’s new alternate identity verification option called ConfirmID. The process can take up to 30 minutes and doesn’t guarantee passengers will make their flight if their identity can’t be verified.

Separatists kill 21 including civilians in multiple attacks in Pakistan

January 31, 2026

By ABDUL SATTAR and MUNIR AHMED - Associated Press

Separatists from Pakistan’s Balochistan province have claimed responsibility for nearly a dozen coordinated attacks across southern Pakistan. The attacks targeted a high-security prison, police stations and paramilitary installations. At least 11 civilians, 10 security personnel and 67 insurgents were killed, authorities said. The Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility, releasing videos showing female fighters. The attacks began early Saturday and included the destruction of rail tracks, prompting train service suspensions. Authorities said nearly 100 militants have been killed across Balochistan over the past 48 hours. Balochistan has long been the site of an insurgency by separatist groups seeking independence from Pakistan’s central government.

The Carolinas emerge as new population boom states. Affordability and lifestyle drive growth

January 31, 2026

By MIKE SCHNEIDER - Associated Press

North Carolina and South Carolina have become two hot spots for growth in the United States. North Carolina was the top destination for domestic migrants in the U.S., attracting 84,000 people from other states last year. South Carolina had the highest overall growth rate at 1.5%. Florida, previously a top choice for domestic residents, fell to eighth place as more people chose to move elsewhere. Texas saw a year-to-year decrease in domestic migration, with 67,300 new domestic residents. North Carolina’s appeal includes its location, job opportunities and diverse landscapes. Despite changes in domestic migration, Texas and Florida still had the highest number of new residents overall.

In an increasingly hostile world, migrants are hopeful as Spain moves to integrate them

January 31, 2026

By RENATA BRITO - Associated Press

More than half a million foreigners are believed to live in Spain without legal permission. Like in the United States and much of Europe, these immigrants work jobs that few nationals want. Many fail to find any work at all, sliding into poverty and homelessness. Now, Spain wants to integrate them. Earlier this week, the government announced it would grant residency and work permits to all foreigners who arrived in the country before Dec. 31, 2025, have lived in Spain for at least five months, and have no criminal records. More than a dozen men and women who are hoping to legalize their status told the AP that Spain’s extraordinary move could allow them to get jobs in the formal economy.

Elena Rybakina wins Australian Open by beating No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka for her 2nd Grand Slam title

January 31, 2026

By JOHN PYE - AP Sports Writer

Elena Rybakina has won the Australian Open title with a 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 victory over top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka that avenged her loss in the championship decider here in 2023. Four years ago she won the first set but lost the final in three. This time, after breaking in the first game and taking the first set, she rallied after losing the second set and going down 3-0 in the third. She won five straight games and then closed out with an ace on her first championship point.

America is drinking more coffee but less of it from Starbucks

January 31, 2026

By DEE-ANN DURBIN - AP Business Writer

Starbucks revolutionized the United States’ coffee culture. But it’s facing unprecedented competition. And that will make it harder to win back customers it’s lost to perennial rival Dunkin’ and fast-growing drive-thru chains like Dutch Bros and 7 Brew. Seattle-based Starbucks was a small, regional chain when former CEO Howard Schultz acquired it in 1987 and made it a global brand. Now, other small chains are seeing explosive growth. Chinese chains like Luckin Coffee and Mixue also are getting into the mix. The chief operating officer of Starbucks says the company believes the way to stay on top is to open more cafes that offer both convenience and a comfortable place to linger.

As ceasefire advances and Rafah nears reopening, hospitals say 12 killed in Israeli strikes in Gaza

January 31, 2026

By WAFAA SHURAFA and SAMY MAGDY - Associated Press

Hospitals in Gaza said Israeli strikes killed at least 12 Palestinians early Saturday, one of the highest tolls since an October agreement aimed at stopping the fighting. The strikes hit northern and southern Gaza, including an apartment in Gaza City and a tent in Khan Younis, officials at the Nasser and Shifa Hospitals said. The casualties included two women and six children from two different families. Israel’s military did not immediately respond to questions about the strikes. The strikes came a day before a border crossing is set to open in Gaza’s southernmost city, a reminder that the death poll is still rising even as a ceasefire agreement inches forward.

At least 200 killed in coltan mine collapse in eastern Congo, rebel authorities say

January 31, 2026

By JUSTIN KABUMBA AND MARK BANCHEREAU - Associated Press

Rebel authorities say at least 200 people were killed in a landslide at coltan mines in eastern Congo. The collapse happened Wednesday due to heavy rains at the Rubaya mines, controlled by M23 rebels. Many victims remain buried in the mud. Several others were injured and taken to health facilities in Rubaya. The rebel-appointed governor has halted mining and ordered relocations near the site. Rubaya is a major source of tantalum, crucial for electronics. The region has long been plagued by conflict, with millions displaced.

Venezuela announces amnesty bill that could lead to mass release of political prisoners

January 30, 2026

By REGINA GARCIA CANO - Associated Press

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez has announced an amnesty bill that could lead to the release of hundreds of prisoners, including opposition leaders, journalists and human rights activists detained for political reasons. The measure had long been sought by the United States-backed opposition. It is the latest concession Rodríguez has made since taking the reins of the country on Jan. 3 after the brazen seizure of then-President Nicolás Maduro in a U.S. military attack in Venezuela’s capital, Caracas. Rodríguez told a gathering of justices, magistrates and others that the ruling party-controlled National Assembly would take up the bill with urgency.