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Talarico leads Paxton in Texas Senate poll after Republican runoff elections

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Talarico leads Paxton in Texas Senate poll after Republican runoff elections

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Days after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton defeated Sen. John Cornyn in the Texas Senate Republican runoff, a new poll shows him narrowly leading his Democratic challenger.

A new poll by Texas Poll shows state Rep. James Talarico, the Democratic candidate, leading Paxton in the race to become the next U.S. senator from Texas in November.

Talarico is seeking to become the first Democrat to win the seat since Sen. Bob Kruger in 1993. Paxton is trying to maintain Republican control of the seat.

The poll was conducted as both sides are working to solidify their political parties ahead of the November general election.

Talarico leads Paxton within poll’s margin of error

The poll was conducted from May 27th to May 28th among 1,670 people believed to be voting in the general election, and had a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percentage points.

According to the poll, Mr. Talarico leads Mr. Paxton 47% to 44% in the U.S. Senate general election, with support from 72% of moderates and 64% of independents.

Another important finding was that Paxton failed to win over likely voters to vote for Cornyn in the runoff.

Almost a third (30%) said they would vote for Talarico, and 44% said they would vote for Paxton. The remaining 23% are undecided or say they will not vote.

Among Republican runoff voters who plan to support Talarico, 51% cite Paxton’s criminal activity and corruption as the main reason.

For context, Paxton was indicted in 2015 on three felony counts of securities fraud. The case was dismissed in March 2024. Paxton was also impeached by the Texas House in 2023, but was acquitted by the Texas Senate later that year.

Only 10% gave positive reasons for supporting Talarico, while the remaining 10% described themselves as passive voters and said they supported Talarico because they could not find an acceptable alternative. Another 7% cited Paxton’s alignment with Donald Trump, and 5% expressed widespread disillusionment with the Republican Party.

Talarico is more likable than Paxton or Trump.

According to the poll, 38% of Texans view Paxton favorably. As noted in the poll, he is the second most unpopular major political figure after John Cornyn.

As for Trump, 48% of Texans support the president.

In contrast, Talarico is viewed favorably by 47% of Texans.

Affordability ranks as the top issue for Texas voters

Polls show that Texans cite prices and the cost of living as their top concern, with 23% of voters citing it as a priority, more than twice as many as any other issue.

This was followed by democracy and voting rights at 11%, immigration at 10%, health care and access at 9%, and economic growth and job creation at 7%.

Mateo Rosiles is a Texas Connect reporter for USA TODAY and local Texas newspapers. Do you have any news tips for him? Email us at mrosiles@usatodayco.com.

United Healthcare Reduces Use of Prior Authorizations for Children

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United Healthcare Reduces Use of Prior Authorizations for Children

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UnitedHealthcare announced on May 29 that it will reduce pre-authorization requirements for the children it covers by two-thirds by the end of 2026.

Some of the previous authorizations that UnitedHealthcare announced it would cut or reduce include some diagnostic services, routine surgery, and specialty care such as cardiology, neurology, pulmonology and orthopedics.

The move, which targets paperwork for doctors and families, is part of the insurer’s goal announced May 5 to eliminate prior authorization requirements for 30% of medical services after complaints that paperwork delays or denies people care.

Physicians and patients have long criticized pre-authorization, the process by which insurance companies review applications before allowing doctors and other health care providers to bill for medical services or prescriptions. Doctors say administrative measures routinely delay or deny treatment.

Major insurance companies, including UnitedHealthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Kaiser Permanente, and Humana, have vowed to reduce their use of prior authorizations.

UnitedHealthcare also announced that it would implement “accreditation waivers” for some procedures at some children’s hospitals. UnitedHealthcare said in a news release that these exemptions will be based on the children’s hospital’s “consistent use of established medical practices.”

UnitedHealthcare did not name the hospitals eligible for such exemptions, but the insurer said the hospitals are part of an “extensive network of nationally recognized pediatric centers across medical and surgical specialties.”

The insurer said it would eliminate prior authorization requirements for other pediatric services, including some diagnostic imaging, sleep studies and routine testing outside of the hospital. UnitedHealthcare maintains prior authorization requirements for complex and experimental treatments.

The child care review changes will apply to people covered by UnitedHealthcare’s private insurance and Medicaid, a federal-state health care program for low-income families and some people with disabilities.

UnitedHealthcare has vowed to reduce prior authorizations for some outpatient surgeries, diagnostic tests such as echocardiograms, outpatient treatments and chiropractic care by the end of 2026 as part of a previously announced effort to lower administrative hurdles for patients of all ages.

Demi Moore calls Rumer Willis’ ex-girlfriend ‘unstable’ amid custody battle

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Demi Moore calls Rumer Willis’ ex-girlfriend ‘unstable’ amid custody battle

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Rumer Willis is embroiled in a tense legal battle over custody of her 3-year-old daughter Louetta with ex Derek Richard Thomas.

In July, Thomas, 30, filed a petition in Los Angeles seeking to establish a relationship with the actress, 37, requesting visitation orders and joint legal and physical custody of Louetta, according to documents obtained by USA TODAY.

Willis has filed multiple responses since the beginning of the year, and in her Jan. 21 filing, she alleged that Thomas “engaged in an ongoing pattern of emotional abuse” during their two-year relationship, “often in the presence of or while confined in a car with a minor child.”

She claimed that Louetta’s “continued coercive control through prolonged, cyclical verbal attacks that were either unable or unwilling to stop” left her “visibly traumatized” and resulted in her “crying a lot, being irritable, and having difficulty napping or sleeping.”

Willis and Thomas went to mediation in August, where they reached a temporary custody agreement.

The arrangement allowed Thomas to spend six to seven hours a day with Louetta in Los Angeles or Sun Valley, where Willis and Louetta lived, according to the documents. Willis also agreed to facilitate communication and visits between the singer and her daughter.

Willis said in a January response that Thomas “is not taking advantage of his essentially unlimited custody time with his daughter at Sun Valley. Instead, he is making every visit about himself and his needs with a constant combative aggressiveness that seeks only to create and stay there, creating problems rather than seeking easy, readily available solutions.”

Willis also claimed that Thomas was aware that Thomas was in Los Angeles to see his father, Bruce Willis, who has frontotemporal dementia, and that it was causing “significant stress and confusion” regarding their custody plans and interactions.

“[Thomas]has made it clear that this is not important to him,” she said in the filing, adding that “he has often waived time with Louetta in favor of agreeing to very basic requests, such as maintaining Louetta’s napping habits and allowing nanny visits.”

She asked for the temporary agreement to be made permanent, with amendments that would limit the hours to three to four days a week and “restrict the child’s driving, have him supervised by a nanny at no cost, and not allow his girlfriend to be present due to relationships and known fights in front of the child.”

Willis also asked the court to order Thomas to undergo a 730 Child Custody Evaluation, a mental health evaluation, saying Thomas has shown a “lack of ability to responsibly parent his young child by putting his needs above his own.” Ms Willis also claimed that Mr Thomas had a “history of erratic and abusive behavior during relationships” and cited “his gross abusive and hostile behavior” during their time together.

Although Willis is abstinent from drugs and alcohol, Willis further claimed to be a “chronic daily drug user.” Although she doesn’t know what his habits are after their breakup in 2024, she said, “His behavior and personality traits are typical of drug users: emotionally abusive, irrational, constant bickering, illogical resentment, hostility, immaturity, impulsiveness, lack of ambition, joblessness, and an inability to even consider other people’s needs above his own.”

In a separate filing, Thomas denied the drug abuse allegations as “false.”

Demi Moore told court she saw Thomas being ‘aggressive’ and ‘erratic’

As part of her application in January, Willis’ mother Demi Moore wrote a five-page statement about her experience with Thomas, claiming he had been acting “very strange” since they first met in June 2022. The Substance star, 63, said Willis was “constantly under stress” during her pregnancy due to their relationship and that Thomas “always put himself and his needs first.”

“Derek always sucks the joy out of every encounter I have with him,” Moore said. “He wants to put Rumer at odds with our family, causing Rumer unnecessary stress and fear to this day.”

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Demi Moore talks about Bruce Willis’ battle with dementia

Demi Moore shared insight into her ex-husband Bruce Willis’ battle with dementia during a recent appearance on Oprah Winfrey’s podcast.

Unbranded – Entertainment

Moore claimed that during Willis’ home birth, Thomas “entered the delivery bed in an aggressive and abrupt manner” and asked Willis to come out, before he “got angry and pouted and took everything into his own hands”, “effectively ruining what was supposed to be one of the happiest moments of her life”.

When Louetta was a newborn, Moore claimed Thomas was “arguing” with Willis over wanting to smoke marijuana around the baby.

“Rumer, my other daughters, and I became concerned that Rumer was unstable,” Moore wrote. “Rumer told me that Derek was always getting into fights and putting her under extreme stress. She said she wouldn’t let her sleep at night because he wanted to keep arguing into the night.”

Thomas maintains parental competence and denies Willis’ accusations

In a written statement following Willis’ January response, Thomas said, “I did not engage in any form of domestic violence, including active ‘coercive control,'” and that while her relationship with Willis was “unhealthy,” there was “no violence, physical or psychological aggression, or intimidation from my side.”

Mr Thomas said he and Willis have a “great, loving, very supportive relationship with our daughter” and insisted he was “a very consistently involved father”.

“At no time have any legitimate questions been raised regarding my parenting or ability to meet Louetta’s every need,” he said. “Louetta has never suffered for any reason, suffered no injury of any kind, experienced any trauma or emotional or physical abuse, or been neglected while in my care. (Willis) has not detailed a single credible instance of abuse or neglect by me.”

Americans rely on side jobs to help pay their living expenses. Which one has the highest salary?

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Americans rely on side jobs to help pay their living expenses. Which one has the highest salary?

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Whether it’s delivering food late at night, selling homemade crafts online, or creating social media content in hopes of landing a brand deal, nearly one in three Americans has turned to a side hustle to make ends meet as the cost of essential goods rises.

After the start of the pandemic, there was a boom in side hustles and small business creation as inflation soared and remote work gave employees back time spent commuting.

Years later, prices are rising again, and a new survey from Omnisend finds that 28% of Americans have started a side hustle. Almost half of them (49%) started an app in the past year, and about 54% said they started an app “to make extra money for bills and necessities.”

Another study by ZipRecruiter found that the percentage of Americans with a side hustle is even higher, with 35% having another source of income. Nicole Bashaw, an economist at ZipRecruiter, said that in the wake of historically low job growth in 2025, people are relying on second jobs not only to cover basic necessities, but also to build a financial cushion. This is because they fear layoffs in a weak job market outside of a few resilient sectors.

“The market is where it was last year, and I think a lot of people were saying, ‘If I lose my job now, it’s going to be really hard to find another job,'” Bashaw said. “The reason we add things is just to prepare for a ‘what if’ environment.”

Who has a side job?

Side jobs are popular across generations and income groups.

Gen Z is most likely to become an entrepreneur because they have an entrepreneurial spirit, but they are not alone. A Bankrate survey last year found that 34% of Gen Z, 31% of Millennials, 23% of Gen X, and 22% of Baby Boomers are looking for it.

And they’re not just for people passing by.

In fact, high-income earners are the most likely to have a side hustle. ZipRecruiter’s research found that about 45% of workers making more than $150,000 work in adjunct jobs, compared to about 31% of workers making less than $25,000 and about 31% of workers making between $25,000 and $50,000.

“It’s an old adage: The more money you have, the easier it is to make money,” says Cory Cantenga, LinkedIn’s head of economics for the Americas. “For example, you’re an AI engineer right now and you work at a company where there are a lot of AI consulting jobs available. You’re just sitting around waiting for work.”

What are the most popular side jobs?

E-commerce has emerged as the most popular way to make extra money, with people selling handmade goods, used goods, and various digital products on sites like eBay, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace.

According to a report from Omnisend, about 46% of people with a side hustle sell or resell products online, 31% do freelance work, and 21% create social media content or run a blog.

“People are going out less, especially when they have less money. They’re wearing fewer clothes, they’re wearing fewer shoes. It’s easy to resell these things,” said Greg Zakowitz, an e-commerce advisor at Omnisend, adding that the popularity of the resale market may have Americans wondering “how can I get money with minimal effort?”

E-commerce seems to be the answer. Approximately 39% of Omnisend survey respondents in e-commerce side businesses said they earn more than $1,000 per month. This compares to about 28% of freelancers, 26% of food delivery workers, and 19% of content creators.

What is the most profitable side hustle?

BestBrokers’ analysis using Upwork income data ranked popular side hustles based on profitability and career potential.

The study found that life coaches earn the highest hourly wages, averaging $150, but that “demand is largely driven by a person’s brand and reputation.” Branded content creators are next on the list, earning an average hourly wage of $40, but their income is unstable in the early stages. While income is determined by traffic and conversions, affiliate marketers earn an average of $37.50 per hour.

The analysis found that e-commerce freelancers, photographers, T-shirt designers, influencer marketing freelancers, copywriters, and tutors earn an average hourly wage of more than $30. It found that photo editors, proofreaders, Canva designers, blog writers, and digital artists earn an average hourly wage of more than $20.

Zakovic said people looking to start a side hustle should remember three things: Time is money, understanding your finances is important, and being realistic doesn’t hurt.

“What people don’t realize is that you have to look at the next step,” he says. “The next step may be a cliff. You must be prepared to load a parachute.”

Contact Rachel Barber at rbarber@usatoday.com, follow her at X @rachelbarber_ and subscribe to her newsletter Making More of Your Money here.

Talarico leads Paxton in Texas Senate poll after Republican runoff elections

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Talarico leads Paxton in Texas Senate poll after Republican runoff elections

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Days after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton defeated Sen. John Cornyn in the Texas Senate Republican runoff, a new poll shows him narrowly leading his Democratic challenger.

A new poll by Texas Poll shows state Rep. James Talarico, the Democratic candidate, leading Paxton in the race to become the next U.S. senator from Texas in November.

Talarico is seeking to become the first Democrat to win the seat since Sen. Bob Kruger in 1993. Paxton is trying to maintain Republican control of the seat.

The poll was conducted as both sides are working to solidify their political parties ahead of the November general election.

Talarico leads Paxton within poll’s margin of error

The poll was conducted from May 27th to May 28th among 1,670 people believed to be voting in the general election, and had a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percentage points.

According to the poll, Mr. Talarico leads Mr. Paxton 47% to 44% in the U.S. Senate general election, with support from 72% of moderates and 64% of independents.

Another important finding was that Paxton failed to win over likely voters to vote for Cornyn in the runoff.

Almost a third (30%) said they would vote for Talarico, and 44% said they would vote for Paxton. The remaining 23% are undecided or say they will not vote.

Among Republican runoff voters who plan to support Talarico, 51% cite Paxton’s criminal activity and corruption as the main reason.

For context, Paxton was indicted in 2015 on three felony counts of securities fraud. The case was dismissed in March 2024. Paxton was also impeached by the Texas House in 2023, but was acquitted by the Texas Senate later that year.

Only 10% gave positive reasons for supporting Talarico, while the remaining 10% described themselves as passive voters and said they supported Talarico because they could not find an acceptable alternative. Another 7% cited Paxton’s alignment with Donald Trump, and 5% expressed widespread disillusionment with the Republican Party.

Talarico is more likable than Paxton or Trump.

According to the poll, 38% of Texans view Paxton favorably. As noted in the poll, he is the second most unpopular major political figure after John Cornyn.

As for Trump, 48% of Texans support the president.

In contrast, Talarico is viewed favorably by 47% of Texans.

Affordability ranks as the top issue for Texas voters

Polls show that Texans cite prices and the cost of living as their top concern, with 23% of voters citing it as a priority, more than twice as many as any other issue.

This was followed by democracy and voting rights at 11%, immigration at 10%, health care and access at 9%, and economic growth and job creation at 7%.

Mateo Rosiles is a Texas Connect reporter for USA TODAY and local Texas newspapers. Do you have any news tips for him? Email us at mrosiles@usatodayco.com.

Is there a vomiting virus going around? Norovirus is rapidly increasing in the US

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Is there a vomiting virus going around? Norovirus is rapidly increasing in the US

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Hikers along Southern California’s Pacific Crest Trail are experiencing a rapidly spreading case of “winter vomiting.” – They’re not alone.

At least 20 hikers have fallen ill along trails near Wrightwood in the San Gabriel Mountains in San Bernardino County over the past two weeks, and at least one was rescued from the air, according to the USA TODAY Network’s Victorville Daily Press. All are believed to have been infected with norovirus, a gastrointestinal disease that causes unpleasant symptoms.

Hikers may be in a less-than-ideal position to fight the disease, which is known to cause vomiting and diarrhea, but California is not alone in the current outbreak.

Data from WastewaterSCAN, a Stanford University-led tool that tests wastewater samples across the country to track the presence of the disease, classified norovirus activity in late May as “high” and trending upward nationwide. 100% of samples taken in May contained norovirus, with concentrations particularly high in the Northeast and Midwest.

The latest data from the CDC from the National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System also shows cases increasing in recent weeks after a steep seasonal decline starting in March. Approximately 11.2% of norovirus tests conducted came back positive in the week ending April 28th, and 12% came back positive in the week ending May 2nd.

The virus is usually associated with the cold winter months when influenza and colds are prevalent, but this late spring surge is not unusual.

It is not only during the winter that the vomiting virus increases rapidly.

The CDC’s NoroSTAT program tracked 1,194 norovirus outbreaks from August 1 to May 7, which is within normal limits and consistent with the 2,534 cases reported during the same period in 2024-2025. According to the CDC, the number of cases is about halfway compared to the 2021-2025 season.

“These levels are about what we would expect at this time of year,” Amanda Bidwell, WastewaterSCAN’s scientific program manager, told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. “Norovirus concentrations typically begin to increase in late fall, peak in early March, and then decline in spring.”

However, NoroSTAT only tracks confirmed cases reported by participating countries, so the actual concentration of cases may be higher. That’s why wastewater can provide a more accurate picture of the prevalence of diseases that aren’t always easily detected in medical settings, especially since most people recover at home without seeing a doctor or receiving a formal diagnosis, Bidwell said.

“Norovirus continues to be prevalent as expected at this time of year, but rotavirus is the pathogen we are currently focusing on in wastewater because it can cause serious illness in children and is a vaccine-preventable disease,” Dr. Alexandria Boehm, Richard and Rhoda Goldman Professor of Environmental Studies at Stanford University and Principal Investigator of WastewaterSCAN, told USA TODAY.

Circulating strains also play a role in the spread of infection. Two variations, GII.4 and GII.17, are now the most common, although GII.4 was once the predominant strain. The newer, more mutated GII.17 will overtake GII.4 in the 2024-2025 season, accounting for 75% of infections, and the recent outbreak may have been caused by a lack of widespread immunity to the variant, the CDC said.

What is norovirus? Why is it called the vomiting virus?

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms and is also known as the “stomach bug” or “stomach cold,” but it is not actually related to the flu.

It is usually transmitted through contaminated food or water and is the most common cause of foodborne illness in the United States, according to the Cleveland Clinic and CDC. It is known for sudden episodes of vomiting and diarrhea.

Norovirus causes acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. When someone is infected with norovirus, their body releases billions of tiny, contagious virus particles. Even the slightest contact with these particles can make another person sick.

People are usually no longer contagious about 48 hours after symptoms subside. The virus may continue to be shed in the stool for several weeks after recovery, according to the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic.

There are different strains of the virus. As your body’s reactions to one type build up, you can easily get sick again with another type. Cases most commonly occur during the cold season, especially from November to April.

The only silver lining is that they are usually short-lived, lasting between 1 and 3 days in your system.

Symptoms of norovirus, commonly known as the stomach bug

According to the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, symptoms of norovirus infection include:

  • nausea and vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • stomach cramps and pain
  • In some cases, fever, headache, and body aches may occur.

Dehydration is a huge concern when infected with a virus. Symptoms that indicate your body may need more fluids include:

  • You urinate less or your urine is dark in color
  • dry mouth
  • Weakness
  • dizziness
  • headache

People who are sick and infected with the virus usually experience symptoms suddenly. Children infected with the virus may be restless or sleepy throughout the day, and may cry without tears.

Symptoms usually appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus and last for 1 to 3 days.

People infected with the virus may experience unpleasant symptoms, but some people may be asymptomatic. However, anyone who is infected is contagious and can pass the virus on to others. According to the CDC, children under 5, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop serious infections.

How is norovirus transmitted? How do I stop it?

Norovirus is easily spread by close contact with an infected person (even if you don’t have symptoms), by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your mouth or nose, and most commonly by eating or drinking contaminated food or drink.

This virus can and often spreads when an infected person or someone who has come into contact with a contaminated surface touches food that is being prepared or served. This virus is difficult to kill because it can withstand both high and low temperatures and can withstand many disinfectants.

A very simple but effective tip to avoid going to the bathroom on the weekend is to keep your hands clean. Wash your hands in hot, soapy water for at least 20 seconds and wash often. Wash before and after meals, before and after handling food, and after using the toilet.

Common food safety measures can also prevent disaster. Thoroughly cook food to the specified internal temperature, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects (especially if they come into contact with food), and wash fruits and vegetables before serving or eating them.

Silver Price Today May 29, 2026

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Silver Price Today May 29, 2026

How much is silver worth per ounce today?

As of 8:05 AM ET on May 29, 2026, the spot price of silver is $75.49 per oz., according to the latest market data. The stock is up 1.34% and up $1.00 from its previous closing price of $74.49.

One year ago, silver was trading at $32.94 per ounce. This means that the price has increased by 129.17% in the last 12 months.

Key levels to look out for this week:

52 week low: $32.98

52 week high: $117.39

Silver is trading 35.69% below its 52-week high. It is 128.89% higher than its 52-week low.

What is the historical price of silver?

today 1 week ago 1 month ago 1 year ago
$75.49 $76.44 $73.60 $32.94

A week ago, silver was trading at $76.44 per ounce. Since then, the price has fallen by 1.24%.

A month ago, silver was trading at $73.60 per ounce. Since then, the price has increased by 2.57%.

USA TODAY is an independent publisher and not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or trading advice. We recommend that you seek independent advice from a qualified professional regarding any specific financial decisions you may make. Trading commodities, futures, and options involves significant risk of loss. Individual investment results may vary. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Prices change rapidly and unpredictably due to factors such as supply/demand, weather, and geopolitical events. Our company assumes no responsibility for any loss or damage arising from the use of the information.

What is driving the price of silver today?

The price of silver is driven by inflation expectations, central bank policy, global economic conditions, and investor demand. The strength of currencies, especially the US dollar, can influence daily prices, as well as physical and industrial demand. For more on the market, read the latest investment news on USA TODAY Money.

What does XAG/USD mean?

XAG/USD is the ticker symbol used to track the spot price of silver in US dollars.

XAG stands for 1 troy ounce of silver and USD stands for US dollar. The estimated price tells you how many dollars it costs to purchase one ounce.

Prices are usually quoted per troy ounce, which is slightly heavier than a standard ounce.

Spot prices reflect real-time market transactions and serve as a benchmark for futures contracts, ETFs, and retail bullion prices.

how to invest in silver

Investing in silver can be done by buying physical coins and bars, buying ETFs that track its price, or investing in mining stocks. Be sure to weigh costs, storage needs, and risk tolerance before making a decision. The retail price of a coin or bar typically includes a premium over the spot price.

Disclaimer: This USA TODAY Money article was automatically generated using live market data from Alpha Vantage. If you think we made a mistake or have feedback, please use this form.

Pete Buttigieg and J.D. Vance lead in 2028 presidential primary

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Pete Buttigieg and J.D. Vance lead in 2028 presidential primary

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Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has jumped to the top in a new poll of 2028 Democratic presidential candidates.

According to the latest Emerson College Poll released on May 28, 18% of Democratic voters support Buttigieg’s presidential bid, with California Governor Gavin Newsom and New York Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in second and third place, respectively.

On the Republican side, Vice President J.D. Vance has a narrow lead among potential candidates with 36% of primary voters, just one point ahead of Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

This represents a significant 15-point increase for Rubio since Emerson’s last poll of Republican candidates in February, and a 16-point drop in support for Vance as a front-runner in the same period.

According to the poll, 15% of Republican primary voters are undecided, compared with 5% for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. The Emerson College poll was conducted from May 24th to May 25th, had 1,000 respondents, and had a margin of error of ±3%.

Will Pete Buttigieg run for president?

Buttigieg is the top candidate for the Democratic nomination in 2028, but it is unclear whether he will run for president. But in remarks at the National Action Network conference in April, Buttigieg hinted that running for president in 2028 was a realistic possibility.

“When you ran for president, you met me for a famous lunch at Sylvia’s Restaurant in Harlem, so I could have room on my calendar. Should I book a table at Sylvia’s? Are you planning to run again?” Pastor Al Sharpton asked Buttigieg, according to The Hill.

“Save me a seat, I’ll be there,” Buttigieg responded, without elaborating further.

Will JD Vance run for president?

As of now, Vance has not officially announced his intention to run for president in 2028.

President Donald Trump has also refused to choose between Rubio and Vance as his successor in 2028. At a May 11 White House event, Trump said the two would be the “perfect ticket” to run for the next presidential election.

“I believe it’s a dream team, but these are small things. That doesn’t mean I have my support under any circumstances,” Trump said. “I think it sounds like a presidential candidate and a vice presidential candidate.”

Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact us at fernando.cervantes@usatodayco.com and follow us at X @fern_cerv_.

Gold rose 1.86% on May 29, 2026

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Gold rose 1.86% on May 29, 2026

How much is gold worth per ounce today?

As of 8:05 AM ET on May 29, 2026, the spot price of gold is: $4,530.38 per oz., according to the latest market data. This was an increase of 1.86% or $82.76 from the previous close of $4,447.62.

One year ago, gold was trading at $3,261.49 per ounce. This means the price has increased by 38.91% in the past 12 months.

Key levels to look out for this week:

52 week low: $3,267.56

52 week high: $5,477.79

Gold is trading 17.30% below its 52-week high. It is 38.65% above its 52-week low.

What is the historical price of gold?

today 1 week ago 1 month ago 1 year ago
$4,530.38 $4,532.51 $4,609.55 $3,261.49

A week ago, gold was trading at $4,532.51 per ounce. Since then, the price has fallen by 0.05%.

A month ago, gold was trading at $4,609.55 per ounce. Since then, the price has fallen by 1.72%.

USA TODAY is an independent publisher and not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or trading advice. We recommend that you seek independent advice from a qualified professional regarding any specific financial decisions you may make. Trading commodities, futures, and options involves significant risk of loss. Individual investment results may vary. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Prices change rapidly and unpredictably due to factors such as supply/demand, weather, and geopolitical events. Our company assumes no responsibility for any loss or damage arising from the use of the information.

What is driving the price of gold today?

The price of gold is driven by inflation expectations, central bank policies, global economic conditions, and investor demand. The strength of currencies, especially the US dollar, can influence daily prices, as well as physical and industrial demand. For more on the market, read the latest investment news on USA TODAY Money.

What is XAU/USD?

XAU/USD is the ticker symbol used to track the spot price of gold in US dollars.

XAU stands for 1 troy ounce of gold and USD stands for US dollar. The estimated price tells you how many dollars it costs to purchase one ounce.

Prices are usually quoted per troy ounce, which is slightly heavier than a standard ounce.

Spot prices reflect real-time market transactions and serve as a benchmark for futures contracts, ETFs, and retail bullion prices.

how to invest in gold

Investing in gold can be done by buying physical coins and bars, buying ETFs that track the price of gold, or investing in mining stocks. Be sure to weigh costs, storage needs, and risk tolerance before making a decision. The retail price of a coin or bar typically includes a premium over the spot price.

Disclaimer: This USA TODAY Money article was automatically generated using live market data from Alpha Vantage. If you think we made a mistake or have feedback, please use this form.

Jameela Jamil, the ‘scary skinny’ celebrity and how to talk about it

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Jameela Jamil, the ‘scary skinny’ celebrity and how to talk about it

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Actress Jameela Jamil doesn’t shy away from what many have thought: “horribly thin” beauty standards are “entrenched in our society.”

As more and more celebrities undergo drastic body changes, conversations about these feelings are proliferating online.

“Bones in a dress,” one user commented on a celebrity red carpet video posted on Instagram. “I hope she’s not sick,” one wrote, while others simply wrote “scary,” “skeleton” and “eat me.” People are eyeing all kinds of celebrities, accusing singers of body-positive anthems of hypocrisy, rolling their eyes at athletes promoting weight-loss pills, and whispering to each other about how thin their favorite movie stars are.

Jamil has spoken out about his past struggles with eating disorders and called out the alarming trend of thinness in Hollywood. And nutritionists share concerns about malnutrition and muscle wasting. Still, we know that commenting on someone’s appearance, whether positive or negative, can be harmful. So should we be having these conversations about our bodies? Mental health experts say the simple answer is no, but there are ways to have appropriate conversations about larger societal concerns. It just requires a different, more nuanced approach.

Why do people want to talk about “skinny celebrities”?

In addition to fans and colleagues like Jamil being “genuinely concerned about their peers,” people are calling out these changes in appearance for fear of returning to and normalizing a toxic diet culture and certain (thin) beauty standards.

“I am critical of the glorification and normalization of eating disorder culture in the entertainment industry,” Jamil said in a video posted to Instagram in March.

She has long been vocal about the issue, writing in a November 2025 TikTok post: “All of a sudden[people]are so thin you can see their ribs, you can see their hip bones sticking out…This is really, really serious and it’s becoming normal.”

Part of the current tension, says Dr. Sara Gupta, a psychiatrist and medical director of Modern Health, a mental health services platform, is that after years of progress toward body positivity and body neutrality, it now feels like we’re heading in a different direction. And that direction is a step back from the size-inclusivity wave of 2010, which saw brands showcasing more diverse bodies and spurring increased discussion about fat acceptance and the normalization of imperfections like cellulite and stretch marks.

“The goal is not to ignore what’s going on, but to have the conversation in a way that supports health without adding additional pressure,” Gupta added.

Jamil and others also point out how this change will affect young people. “This is an example for young girls who think they are not normal if they grow flesh on their bodies,” Jamil added.

Jamil also hit back at critics who say she’s shamed for being thin or that she shouldn’t comment on women’s bodies.

“While I appreciate that, I think it’s a disingenuous way to shut down a vitally important discussion about the fact that anorexia is the leading cause of death from mental illness. This is really serious. This is a matter of life or death,” she said in the post.

Why body comments are still harmful

While some celebrities have been open about their use of weight loss drugs, not to mention the popularity of GLP-1 and its impact on changing dietary culture, which cannot be ignored, the truth is that no one knows what anyone is going through, especially those we don’t know personally.

Weight loss can be the result of a health problem or an eating disorder. The Mayo Clinic lists a myriad of potential causes of weight loss, including physical illness as well as mental health.

When people struggling with eating disorders share their concerns that they’re “too thin” or “horribly thin,” it can actually backfire, says Sam DeCaro, director of clinical support and education at the Renfrew Center, which specializes in eating disorder treatment.

These types of comments often “reinforce eating disorder behaviors,” she explained.

Plus, your comments are more likely to be seen and heard by online friends and strangers, rather than the star in question.

“Some people write in the comments section with good intentions,” DeCaro said, but added that it’s our loved ones, including our children, who are picking on them, and that research suggests that just reading comments based on appearance can affect body image, even if they’re not about one’s own body.

So how do we talk about it?

A more helpful approach, Gupta suggested, is to zoom out.

“Instead of asking whether a particular person looks ‘too skinny,’ we can talk about broader patterns that we’re seeing,” she said, including “the rapidly increasing awareness of drugs like GLP-1 and the message they send when used outside of current clinical guidelines.”

“Even with good intentions, if the focus remains on the individual’s body, it can quickly become toxic and harmful.”

Gupta suggests keeping the following tips in mind when approaching these conversations:

  • Avoid comments about body shape or size.
  • Consider the bigger picture, including how drug companies market GLP-1, who has access to GLP-1 and who doesn’t, and the role social media algorithms play in its popularity.
  • Please note that GLP-1 is a prescription drug that is only approved for use in people who meet certain medical criteria.
  • Remember that what we say in person or online can influence how others, especially young people, feel about their bodies.

If you or someone you know is struggling with body image or eating concerns, the National Eating Disorders Association’s toll-free and confidential helpline is available by phone or text at 1-800-931-2237 or by clicking to chat message. Nationaleatingdisorders.org/Helpline. For 24/7 crisis information, text “NEDA” to 741-741.

Pet costs are rising

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Pet costs are rising

Good morning and Happy Friday! I’m Betty Lynn Fisher for the Friday consumer edition of Daily Money.

There’s no doubt that pet owners love their furry family members.

But a new analysis from the Bank of America Research Institute finds that pet ownership is becoming increasingly expensive. The Bank of America Research Institute said pet adoption rates and pet ownership rates are retreating as costs, including veterinary care, rise, and affordability may be playing a larger role among animal lovers.

Will you cut other parts of your budget to get a pet?

How loyal are you to your brand?

Tight budgets and rising product prices are causing more shoppers to ditch their favorite brands for cheaper alternatives, new research has found.

In a DOSS survey of more than 1,000 Americans, 60% of shoppers said they had abandoned a brand they used to love because of rising prices.

What is the breaking point for price increases for shoppers?

Unrealistic expectations?

The average college student is expected to earn $80,000 a year after graduation, according to a new study.

Is it realistic?

📰 Consumer stories you can’t miss 📰

Betty Lin-Fisher is a consumer reporter for USA TODAY. Contact her at blinfisher@USATODAY.com or follow her at @blinfisher on X, Facebook and Instagram and @blinfisher.bsky.social on Bluesky.. Sign up for our free The Daily Money newsletter, breaking down complex consumer and financial news. Subscribe here.

Mamdani declines support for Jack Schlossberg’s NY-12 campaign

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Mamdani declines support for Jack Schlossberg’s NY-12 campaign

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Zoran Mamdani has so far cut off all support from the New York City Council, ignoring NY-12, one of the hottest districts this election cycle.

The district has received national attention, especially with social media personality and Kennedy successor Jack Schlossberg running for office.

It also covers some of the most important parts of the city, including the United Nations and the Empire State Building.

Here’s what you need to know:

Who is running for NY-12?

The Democratic and Republican primaries for the seat will be held in June.

The top names running for the Democratic nomination on the ballot are:

But it’s Schlossberg that has garnered the most national attention. He is the son of Caroline Kennedy, the daughter of John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy, and has become known for his sometimes outlandish social media posts.

Schlossberg is leading in some polls and has support from Nancy Pelosi. But most current polls show either Boas or Lasher as the frontrunners for the seat.

Why did Mamdani not support any candidate in NY-12?

After announcing his shock endorsement for another district on MS NOW, Mamdani said this was his “last Congressional endorsement in New York City.”

“I can now say I have completed a job in Congress that I am proud of.”

Shortly before Mamdani appeared on a briefing with Jen Psaki, Schlossberg posted that he was the only person in NY-12 to support the New York mayor.

But Mr. Lasher and Mr. Bolles did support Mr. Mamdani, according to a list compiled by the city and state during the election.

It was not immediately clear why Mamdani would not support a candidate in NY-12, even though he is a voter in the area. USA TODAY reached out to the mayor’s office for comment, but there was no immediate response.

In an interview with NBC News on Thursday, May 27, Schlossberg was asked if he wanted Mamdani’s support, saying, “I want the mayor to do whatever he thinks is best for his success and the success of the city.”

“I definitely agree with him a lot more than my opponents, so I think he should do what he thinks is right.”

U.S. Reps. Lee and Delzio say abuse is happening in Pennsylvania jails

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U.S. Reps. Lee and Delzio say abuse is happening in Pennsylvania jails

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  • U.S. Representative Summer Lee and Representative Chris Deluzio conducted a surprise inspection of the Moshannon Valley Processing Center in central Pennsylvania.
  • Detainees in immigration detention facilities reported experiencing neglect, abuse, and lack of adequate medical care.
  • The Moshannon facility is the largest in the Northeast and is operated by Geo Group, a private, for-profit prison corporation.
  • The facility has received complaints, with nearly 90 allegations of civil rights and human rights violations in fiscal year 2024.

On May 28, U.S. Reps. Summer Lee and Chris Deluzio made an unannounced tour of the Northeast’s largest immigrant detention facility, where the two Allegheny County Democrats spoke with detainees who say they are being neglected and abused, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported.

Most people at the Moshannon Valley Processing Center in central Pennsylvania have no criminal history and are classified as low-security detainees, said Deluzio, who lives in Fox Chapel and represents parts of Allegheny County and all of Beaver County.

Their visit comes about nine months after Lee, who lives in Swissvale and represents parts of Westmoreland and Allegheny counties, which include Pittsburgh, attempted to visit the facility in August 2025. At the time, she was denied because of a Department of Homeland Security policy that requires lawmakers to give seven days’ notice before visiting. The policy was blocked by a federal judge in Washington, D.C., earlier this year.

The visit also comes in the wake of reports of dangerous conditions inside the facility and a hunger strike over alleged protests that have resulted in the deaths of at least three detainees in the past three years.

Democrats face restrictions limiting communication with detainees at Central Pennsylvania ICE facility

The Post-Gazette reported that during the two hours they spent inside the Moshannon Valley Processing Center, Lee and Delzio were not allowed to be accompanied by staff to help translate. Cell phones were also prohibited from being brought into the facility.

Delzio said he was also prohibited from speaking to his Peruvian father, Randy Cordova Flores, who was arrested in January and is being held at the facility. Flores has a pending asylum claim, a valid work permit and no criminal record, the Post-Gazette reported.

Lee said many of the women at the facility were still able to talk to her during her visits, despite a lack of interpreters and the possibility of retaliation.

“I’ve heard that there was retaliation against women. I think the women came forward because they saw this as an opportunity,” Lee said. “Finally, two members of the Diet are here.”

Concerns about lack of proper medical care at Central PA Detention Center

The Post-Gazette reported that the detainees told Lee and Deluzio about a number of medical problems they were experiencing.

Representatives spoke to a pregnant woman who was bleeding and couldn’t determine the status of her pregnancy, a woman who said she was sexually assaulted, and another woman who said she didn’t feel like she was receiving proper care after surgery.

Allegations of abuse and neglect in Central PA ICE detention centers are not new.

The Moshannon Detention Center has been accused of neglect and abuse for years, with the first allegations dating back to President Joe Biden’s administration, the Post-Gazette reported.

In fiscal year 2024, detainees filed nearly 90 complaints of civil and human rights violations, alleging sexual abuse, medical neglect, and chronic solitary confinement.

More than 140 employees were fired from the facility, although the results of the investigation by the Department of Homeland Security’s Civil Rights and Freedoms Division have not been made public.

Just recently, the Shut Down Detention Campaign, a group working to close detention facilities in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, said at a press conference that detainee Izzy Alley has stage 3 kidney failure and is not receiving proper treatment at the Moshannon facility, the Post-Gazette reported.

Allie, who was detained in Orlando, Florida, underwent a medical examination in early 2026 and was found to have kidney failure. He was not told about the diagnosis for two months, and advocates said that as of May 21, he had not seen a doctor or been taken to the hospital to treat his symptoms.

Democrats want to cancel immigration enforcement funding

Deluzio and Lee’s visit to the Moshannon facility comes during a midterm election year in which Democrats are focused on reversing many of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement actions across the country and are working to gain control of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Mr. Lee has called for the Moshannon facility to be closed, but Mr. Delzio has not said whether the facility should be closed, instead focusing on funding ICE.

“This is another cog in the machine,” he said of Moshannon, the Post-Gazette reported. “If we close this facility and don’t change anything else, that’s not going to change what Donald Trump’s administration is doing.”

Deluzio and Lee said that if Democrats retake the House, their top priority will be to undo the roughly $160 billion in immigration enforcement spending appropriated in 2025 through President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

“We need a complete overhaul of how we bring in immigrants, how we detain people, and how we treat these people,” Lee said. “We have massive cuts to Medicare, Medicaid and SNAP benefits, the biggest cuts we have ever seen, and yet we continue to fund ICE by billions of dollars.”

Where is the Central PA ICE detention facility? Who runs it?

The Moshannon Valley Processing Center is located in Center County, about 2 1/2 hours northeast of Pittsburgh. The detention center is the largest detention facility in the Northeast and is operated by Geo Group, a private, for-profit prison company based in Florida, the Tribune-Review reported.

The publicly traded company is ICE’s largest contractor, according to the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University School of Law.

Finch Walker is a Pittsburgh Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Please contact Walker at FWalker@usatodayco.com. Instagram: @finchwalker_. X: @_finchwalker.

Youth baseball coach banned for life over virus infection incident

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Youth baseball coach banned for life over virus infection incident

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Disciplinary action has been handed down in the youth baseball incident that caused a stir.

An Oklahoma coach who allegedly instructed his 11-year-old son to throw a ball into the opposing team’s dugout has been suspended indefinitely by the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA), which sanctioned the travel ball tournament where the incident occurred.

The son of the baseball coach who threw the ball into the opposing team’s dugout during Memorial Day weekend in Kansas City has been suspended for five years.

USSSA CEO John Laterra informed USA TODAY Sports of the disciplinary action on Thursday, May 28th.

“Due to the sensitive nature of this matter and the involvement of minors, we will not be commenting further,” LaTella told USA TODAY Sports in a text message.

The incident occurred during a game between an Oklahoma team and a Nebraska team featuring players 11 and under. It gained national attention after a video showing part of what happened went viral on social media.

The coach who was permanently suspended by the USSSA is Michael Ryals, 38, of Welling, Oklahoma. The pitcher’s name will not be released because he is a minor.

The player’s parents believed that Ryals had directed his son to pitch into the opposing team’s dugout, according to two people involved with the team Ryals coached. The two spoke to USA TODAY Sports on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.

The two also said the incident occurred after the Nebraska team became loud and disruptive after the pitcher took the mound in the sixth and final inning.

The Nebraska team won 8-6.

One of the players’ parents sent a letter of apology to Brandon Magni, the team’s coach from Nebraska, on Facebook, one of the two people involved with Ryals’ team said. That person read a letter to USA TODAY Sports.

“Our athletes and parents were 100% blind when Michael instructed his son to do the same,” the letter said. “Immediately after the game we left the park and we no longer have any contact with the coach and we will not have any further contact with him.”

USSSA is a Florida-based nonprofit that sanctiones 35,000 events attended by 4.5 million people in 47 states, according to La Terra’s LinkedIn page.

This story has been updated with new information.

Should I pay off my mortgage before I retire? Advantages and disadvantages

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Should I pay off my mortgage before I retire? Advantages and disadvantages

Just because you don’t have debt doesn’t mean you’re doomed.

morley backman
|The Motley Fool

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“Make sure you retire debt-free.” This is a common piece of advice you’ll find on the Internet for people approaching retirement and trying to get their finances in order.

Of course, it’s easy to see why experts recommend trying to pay off all your debt before you retire. When you stop working, your income may be limited, including Social Security benefits and retirement plan withdrawals. If that income isn’t dominated by debt payments, you’ll have more leeway.

But while paying off debt is generally a smart move to make before retirement, your mortgage may be an exception. Here’s why it’s not such a bad thing to keep paying for a home at that stage in your life.

1. Liquidity may improve

You may be tempted to withdraw your savings before retirement in order to retire completely debt-free. However, it is important to remember that a home is a relatively illiquid asset. Also, keeping too much money locked up at home when you’re not working can make it difficult to deal with unplanned expenses.

Let’s say you have an IRA balance of $250,000 and you spent half of it paying off your mortgage. Then, if you have a series of big expenses like home or car repairs, you could deplete your savings, which isn’t ideal.

In case you missed it: Mortgage interest rates are soaring due to the Iran war. Here’s what to do.

2. You may be eligible for a tax deduction on your mortgage interest.

When you itemize your taxes, your mortgage interest may be deductible. And while you have that loan, your total IRS bill may be lower.

Of course, if you’re nearing the end of your mortgage repayments, your monthly payments may go more toward principal and less toward interest. However, you may still get some tax savings.

3. Affordable payments can work perfectly within your budget

A big reason why many retirees want to get rid of their mortgage is to have one less bill to pay. But if your mortgage payment is reasonable and fits comfortably within your budget, it doesn’t have to be a source of stress.

Of course, it’s a different story if you can’t manage your payments. However, in such situations, downsizing may be the preferred solution in order to fully pay off the home.

As it turns out, retiring with a mortgage isn’t necessarily a bad thing. And if paying off your mortgage means meaningfully dipping into your retirement savings, it may not be worth it.

The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

The Motley Fool is a USA TODAY content partner providing financial news, analysis and commentary designed to help people take control of their financial lives. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.

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Anne Hathaway’s natural facelift hack goes viral: What doctors say

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Anne Hathaway’s natural facelift hack goes viral: What doctors say

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Anne Hathaway is used to being criticized for her appearance. So in March, the Oscar-winning actress, 43, decided to finally share what people have been asking for: her secret to looking forever young.

No, it’s not a facelift. or other types of plastic surgery. It’s…two braids of hair.

“Okay, drumroll please,” Hathaway said as she geared up for her Oscar charm in an Instagram video that has garnered 1.4 million likes. “Show them our secrets.”

The actress then reveals two small braids around her temples, which she pulls back and ties at the back of her head, hiding them under the rest of her hair. result? “I feel like I’m a little more awake,” she says with a laugh.

Ever since Hathaway’s videos went viral, people have posted themselves performing her tricks, sometimes with shocking results. In an interview published on May 21, Elle magazine asked Hathaway if her videos were meant to sharply deny rumors that she had plastic surgery.

“I wouldn’t say it’s edgy, but we’re in an era where people are very confident in assuming that what they think is true, and sometimes they’re right and sometimes they’re not,” she said. “My preference would be to not comment and just live in mystery and not draw attention to myself, but the speculation has gotten so great that I feel the truth needs to be revealed.”

Anne Hathaway She says she was ‘legally blind’ for 10 years

Also, the truth is that Hathaway’s trick isn’t all that new. Dermatologists say people have been styling their hair in ways that deliberately lift the skin on their faces since time immemorial. They also say the technique has health risks, and overall they hope people don’t do it.

“It’s so funny that she posted that,” says dermatologist and surgeon Dr. Anthony Rossi. “I think she was joking, because people are accusing her of getting facelifts and eyebrow lifts, and maybe she does, but that trick of pulling back the corners of her hair like that, people have been doing it for a long time.”

Anne Hathaway’s Natural Facelift Hack Problem

Some of the videos of people trying Hathaway’s tricks are surprising. Pull your braids back around your temples and your face will look transformed in seconds.

Doctors say this is certainly not a long-term solution. And that’s not what they recommend either.

“You can actually develop traction alopecia, which is a type of hair breakage,” Rossi says. “As dermatologists, we see traction alopecia, especially in women who wear their hair in a ponytail all the time and are actually pulling on the ends. So this is not good for the hair, because it can actually break the hair.”

Traction alopecia can cause hair loss, fibrosis and scarring, Rossi added. Not to mention, dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jaffee says that pulling your hair back can often be uncomfortable.

“I went into the bathroom and tried to do this. It was like imitating this for myself,” she says. “It doesn’t really change that much. Personally, it doesn’t feel good to have that much traction.”

I had my skin analyzed by high-tech machinery. I was stunned when I saw the results.

Instead, she recommends using skin care ingredients like sunscreen and retinol to protect collagen. Other than that, she says there’s really no way to keep your face lifted other than medical intervention.

“I definitely don’t think people should do this,” Jeffy says of Hathaway’s hair hack. “I don’t think the small benefit that comes from this is worth the risk.”

What Anne Hathaway’s hair hacks really mean

Perhaps it’s not Hathaway’s hair trick that says more about today’s beauty landscape, but the scrutiny that drove her to share it in the first place.

The actress told Elle that she still wonders if posting the video was the right decision. “I’ll probably always wonder, ‘Should I have posted that? Should I not have posted that? Should I just keep going and do something that makes me happy and makes me feel more confident on the red carpet?'” she said. “But I felt like the conversation was becoming more and more scattered.”

The dialogue is also much louder than Hathaway’s. In recent years, the internet has been abuzz with talk about the so-called “undetectable era” of plastic surgery. We live in a time when plastic surgery has advanced so much that it is often difficult to tell when you have had your surgery done.

We are in the “age of undetectability” of plastic surgery. It’s a beauty revolution.

Dermatologists and surgeons previously told USA TODAY that the undetectable era is indeed a reality, and there are pros and cons to it. On the other hand, more and more people are avoiding overdoing cosmetic procedures and looking for ones that complement and enhance their natural beauty, rather than ones that dramatically alter their beauty. At the same time, however, people have become more skeptical of celebrities who appear to be frozen in time.

A surprising new plastic surgery has arrived tendency. This is called “rib remodeling.”

Hathaway opened up to Elle about the assumptions people have about her.

“Also, by the way, these are major medical decisions that people are second-guessing,” she said. “No, I didn’t make any major medical decisions. I just wanted to show you that it’s two braids.”

Furthermore, she added: “By the way, the other thing about all of this is that I might get a facelift someday, too.”

Victoria’s Secret changes ticker to VSXY in brand overhaul

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Victoria’s Secret changes ticker to VSXY in brand overhaul

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  • Victoria’s Secret will change its stock ticker symbol from “VSCO” to “VSXY” on June 2nd.
  • The company says the changes reflect its new branding focus on “celebrating sexiness in all its forms.”

Global retailer Victoria’s Secret is changing its branding to “celebrate sexiness in all its forms.”

The company announced that it will begin trading under the new ticker symbol “VSXY” on June 2, replacing the current name “VSCO.” The retailer said the changes are intended to symbolize renewed confidence in its identity and what its brand represents to customers.

“VSXY represents who we are today,” Victoria’s Secret & Company CEO Hilary Super said in a May 21 press release. “We are a company that is fully committed to our identity and is committed to inspiring confidence, inspiring joy and celebrating sexiness in all its forms.”

The changes will go into effect on June 2, when the company plans to release its annual financial results for the first quarter, according to the release.

In case you missed it: AI bots run retail stores. Is this the future?

Victoria’s Secret previously operated under the umbrella of L Brands, the Ohio retail giant founded by Les Wexner in 1963. The lingerie brand was separated from its parent company in 2021, and L Brands was renamed Bath & Body Works.

A year earlier, Wexner, a billionaire who has since come under intense scrutiny for his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, resigned as chairman and chief executive officer of L Brands.

Victoria’s Secret has 1,420 retail stores in approximately 70 countries.

Reporter Emma Wozniak can be reached at ewozniak@dispatch.com or @emma_wozniak_ on X (formerly Twitter).

Judge blocks President Trump’s $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund

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Judge blocks President Trump’s .8 billion anti-weaponization fund

The order temporarily halts funding and organization of the fund while a judge considers arguments against the program, which critics have called a slush fund to reward the president’s supporters.

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WASHINGTON – A federal judge has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s action to establish a $1.8 billion fund to compensate people the Justice Department deemed unfairly investigated.

U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema in Virginia ordered the Trump administration to take no further action, including creating or administering the Anti-Weaponization Fund, or considering any pending claims or disbursing funds to the fund. She set a hearing for June 12.

The Department of Justice created the fund as part of a settlement of a lawsuit brought by President Trump and his family against the Internal Revenue Service in the wake of leaked tax returns. Democrats and some public interest groups denounced the proposed program as a slush fund to reward the president’s political allies.

The White House referred questions about the order to the Justice Department, which did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Fund established after President Trump’s $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS

The Justice Department announced on May 18 that it would provide $1.776 billion to “victims of legal battles and weapons charges” as part of a $10 billion settlement of a lawsuit filed by Trump and his family against the Internal Revenue Service.

Some criticism of the fund is that it could benefit people who were convicted or charged in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol and later pardoned by President Trump.

President Trump said a five-person committee overseen by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche would decide how to allocate the funds.

“The court was fooled” 35 former judges ask court to investigate President Trump’s contract with IRS

Opponents ridicule ‘slush funds’ for Trump allies

But Congressional Democrats argue that the fund is unconstitutional because lawmakers traditionally decide how federal funds are spent. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., called the fund “one of the most depraved” of President Trump’s “corrupt schemes” and said Democrats would continue to fight it in the courts and Congress.

Opponents of the fund, including those who filed the lawsuit, argued that it would become a “slush fund” for President Trump to reward political allies. The lawsuit was brought by Andrew Floyd, a former assistant U.S. attorney for Virginia. Jonathan Caravello, professor at California State University, Channel Islands. New Haven, Connecticut. and advocacy groups Common Cause and the National Abortion Federation.

Caravello was arrested during a protest against the government’s immigration crackdown. Floyd prosecuted those who stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021, and was fired by the Trump administration. New Haven had been the target of administrative litigation and funding disputes. However, the lawsuit argues that the plaintiffs cannot demand “an apology, let alone compensation” from the fund.

“The Department of Justice and the Treasury Department created a $1.776 billion slush fund of taxpayer dollars to make payments to individuals favored by the Trump-Vance administration,” the complaint states. “Since its inception, this fund has been on a collision course with the U.S. Constitution.”

Skye Perryman, CEO of Democracy Forward, which represents those suing the Justice Department, said no administration has the authority to spend public money through political pay programs that have never been authorized by Congress.

“Mr. Brinkema recognized the urgent need to stop taxpayer funds from being distributed through a secret and unprecedented political compensation system before its legality could be fully reviewed in court,” Perryman said in a statement.

Derek Muller, a professor at the University of Notre Dame School of Law, said there are “significant” questions on social media about whether the plaintiffs will be allowed to sue. But he said the hearing schedule would give both sides time to submit full written arguments for Brinkema to consider before the government takes irreversible steps toward creating the fund or distributing the funds.

President Trump heads to the Situation Room to ‘finalize’ Iran deal

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President Trump heads to the Situation Room to ‘finalize’ Iran deal

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WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump said he plans to meet with his national security team in the White House Situation Room on Friday, May 28, to make a final decision on whether to approve the deal with Iran.

“I will now make a final decision in the Situation Room,” Trump said in a post on Truth Social at 10:51 a.m. ET after outlining some of his demands in the negotiations.

Trump said Iran must agree to “never have nuclear weapons or bombs,” the Strait of Hormuz must “immediately open” without tolls for ships, and Iran must also complete the removal of highly enriched uranium.

He said the enriched uranium would be “unearthed by the United States” and destroyed in coordination with Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency. “There will be no exchange of money until further notice,” the president said.

more: President Trump and Iran are ‘very close’ to a deal, Vance says

Trump also suggested that U.S. ships overseeing the blockade of the strait could return to the United States, but it was unclear whether that meant after a deal was finalized.

In his post, President Trump said, “Vessels seized in the Straits due to our nation’s stunning and unprecedented naval blockade, now lifted, may begin the process of ‘returning home.’ Greetings to your wives, husbands, parents, and families from me, your favorite President!”

Trump added that other “less important” items had also been agreed upon.

President Trump’s remarks came after U.S. and Iranian negotiators reached a tentative agreement in a memorandum of understanding to reopen the strait and continue discussions about Iran’s nuclear program during an extended 60-day cease-fire period. However, this proposal has not yet received support from President Trump.

This is a developing story.

2025 Kia K4 LXS Annual Review: Cheap Car

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2025 Kia K4 LXS Annual Review: Cheap Car

I think many of us would be shocked at the idea that a $25,000 sedan is like our year-rounder. kia k4 It now passes as an affordable car. Hell, I’m old enough now (barely, thank you very much) to remember when it was. price is fair The Cadillac cost over $10,000, which meant adding five digits to the car’s pricing.

When I was trying to choose the best cheap car for my long-term fleet, and I realized that the line for a “cheap car” is now $25,000, I kept thinking about the first (and coincidentally only) new car I ever bought myself, a midline 1995 Dodge Neon that I leased in the spring of ’94 and named Dr. Brill. My recollection, admittedly not the most reliable, was that a good doctor cost about half that.

When a $12,500 car is and isn’t a $25,000 car

I took out a copy of American car standard catalogAnd it turns out my unreliable memory was right, just this time. The neon sedan in mid-level Highline trim was listed for $11,240. I looked up that number U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Inflation Calculator. Adjust to date motor trend When the Kia K4 LXS is delivered, the Neon costs $25,765. So Dr. Brill was also driving a $25,000 sedan. (Well, $26,000.)

Although he didn’t, because Brillstar had a choice. The 21D package (air conditioning, center console, remote trunk release, rear defogger) added $703, plus Brilliant Blue Metallic paint (hence his name; Dr. Brill was also the dentist of my child’s father, who I went to school with. Oh, sorry, I could only find pictures of the red neon), $46 for floor mats, and a $500 destination fee. Total: $12,586. Adjusted to 2025 dollars, it’s $27,621. I’m using 2025 because a) that’s when K4 will have been achieved and b) I don’t need another reminder that inflation is still going strong.

I dove down this wonderful rabbit hole, reveling in the opportunity to avoid work while doing something that could reasonably be argued to be work. Remembering the stories of all the people I’ve heard, myself included, about how cheap cars used to be, I went back a few decades to find the spiritual ancestor of the Kia K4 from a few years back.

Were cars really that cheap in the good old days?

In the 1980s, we chose the Tempo, one of Ford’s first aero sedans. (Middle-aged people like me may remember this) 1984 commercial with tempo looping “O”.) In 1985, the midline Tempo GL sedan was listed for $7,160. Add air conditioning ($743) and an AM/FM radio (yes, I had to pay an additional $109 for the stereo, and the cassette deck is even more expensive). I can’t find the exact destination charge, so let’s assume it’s $350. Total: $8,362. 2025 price adjusted for inflation: $25,605.

1970s? It’s simple. It has to be the ubiquitous Plymouth Valiant. (It’s the same car as the Dodge Dart, but we’re already using a Dodge.) Other than the then-mandatory annual styling updates and a disastrous emissions system, this Mallards-era budget car staple remained largely unchanged since 1967, and was one year away from being retired in 1975 to be replaced by the disastrous Plymouth Volare. The six-cylinder Valiant (and Dart) became the go-to for cheap and reliable power in the 1970s.

At the time, the differences between the base model Valiant, midline Custom, and top-of-the-line Valiant Brougham were primarily trim and materials rather than comfort features, so let’s focus on the base model car, which was listed for $3,247 with the good old 225 cubic inch (3.7 liter) Slant-6 engine. Air conditioning adds $407, AM radio $64, and full-size wheel covers (equivalent to 1970s K4 LXS alloys) cost $26. Adding an $80 destination fee (hey, those were the days) brings the price to $3,744. Adjusted for inflation, that’s $23,214. Finally, a car that is (slightly) cheaper than the K4 has arrived!

In the pre-Malays era, the beat continues. (Keep in mind the $21,990 pre-destination price for the base model ’25 K4 LX, as we’re working without destination and option fees.) 1965 Dodge Dart 4-door, $2,112, adjusted to $21,868. 1955 Chevrolet 150 4-door sedan, $1,728 or $20,907. A 1946 Ford Deluxe Six (when production resumed after the war) costs $1,198, or $21,264 in 2025 dollars.

This trend continues into the 21st century. The 2005 Toyota Corolla S was listed for $15,780 with destination, equivalent to $26,731 in 2025. The 2015 Honda Civic LX cost $19,325, or $26,713.

It’s worth it because of the price

Reading my book made it much easier to call a $25,000 Kia a cheap car. But there is another aspect that we must consider. What happens to the things that come standard in modern cars that were optional or not available in yesterday’s $25,000 cars?

Let’s go back to Dr. Brill. My brave 1995 neon. I was hoping (who was?) that the K4 might be its spiritual successor. You probably already know that you had to pay extra for things that come standard on the base model Kia K4, such as air conditioning, remote trunk release, and center console. Why are so many things now the norm? It’s cheaper to make similar cars than to offer more options. Henry Ford refused to option the Model T or even paint it, but once he joined the invisible choir, Detroit went wild. Everything from the radio to the tinted band at the top of your windshield will cost extra. check out Try this 1971 Dodge Salesman’s Pocket Guide.

The Neon comes with a manual transmission (I wish the same could be said for the K4!), and an “upgrade” to an automatic would cost another $1,260, or about $2,800 in 2025. (All the cars cited above came standard with a manual transmission; those were the days.) Power locks and windows (the latter, believe it or not, were only offered on the Neon’s front doors), and a tachometer were options my Neon didn’t have. Cruise control, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, and alloy rims were not available on the Highline, and neither keyless entry nor a telescoping steering column were available on any Neon. Things like keyless ignition, display stereos, adaptive cruise control, and lane centering had not yet been invented.

Also don’t forget about all the safety systems. The K4 LXS has eight airbags. Neon had two. Anti-lock brakes were another option I didn’t have. The Neon had rear drum brakes, while the K4 (and most new cars these days) had four-wheel discs. The K4’s stability control, rearview camera, and collision detection with automatic braking were still a long way off.

If you go back to the $24,000 1975 Plymouth Valiant, that girl would have had a three-speed manual transmission and four-wheel drum brakes (which didn’t perform well at high speeds or in the rain). Power windows and locks cost extra, as did power steering and power brakes. You know that little tab in your rearview mirror that toggles between day and night settings? Even this costs extra on the Valiant (about $8). There wasn’t even a side mirror on the passenger side.

$25,000 car turns out to be cheaper than ever

This trip down memory lane was truly an eye-opener. I was one of those people who longed to go back to the days of $3,500 darts and $12,000 neon lights. But if you take into account the staggering shrinkage in the purchasing power of our dollar, you’ll see that $25,000 cars have always existed, and if you take into account all the features now on offer (whether you want them or not), cheap cars are cheaper now than they were after World War II. Our Kia K4 is a better deal than I expected. But I definitely miss the manual transmission.

More about our long-term 2025 Kia K4 LXS Sedan:

2025 Kia K4 LXS Sedan Specifications

Basic price

$24,165

tested price

$24,440

option

Carpeted floor mats, $175. Cargo mat, $100

vehicle layout

Front-engine, FF, 5-pass, 4-door internal combustion sedan

power train

2.0L port injection Atkinson cycle DOHC 16 valve I-4

total power

147 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm

total torque

132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm

contagion; infection

Continuously variable automatic

Vehicle weight (F/R distance)

£2,963 (61/39%)

wheelbase

107.1 inch

Length x width x height

185.4 x 72.8 x 55.9 inches

tire

Kumho Solus TA31 205/55R16 91H M+S

EPA Fuel Economy, City/Highway/Combined

29/39/33mpg

EPA range

469 miles

MotorTrend test results

0-60MPH

8.1 seconds

quarter mile

16.2 seconds at 88.2 mph

Brakes, 60-0 mph

124 feet

lateral acceleration

0.83g

figure eight wrap

27.3 seconds @ 0.63 g (average)

ownership experience

Service life

7.5 months / 6,583 miles

real world fuel economy

30.1mpg

Energy cost per mile

$0.17

Service outage days

14

maintenance and wear

none

damage

568 miles: Fender bender, right rear door shell and wheel replaced, quarter panel repaired, $4,139. 4075 miles: Right front tire replaced, $190.95.

recall

none

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