Surveillance camera footage shows the moment the Air Canada plane crashed
Surveillance camera footage recorded from the screen showed the moment an Air Canada jet collided with a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport.
The chief executive of the National Transportation Safety Board says long waits to get through security lines during a partial government shutdown delayed investigators’ response to the fatal Air Canada crash at LaGuardia Airport.
An Air Canada passenger plane collided with a fire truck while landing late on the night of March 22, killing two pilots, injuring dozens of passengers and shutting down the busy airport.
The move comes amid a partial government shutdown that has hit the Transportation Security Administration hardest, with employees working without pay and many quitting or not coming to work. Travelers reported waiting for hours in security lines that extended outside the terminal.
NTSB investigators began arriving at the scene in the early morning hours of March 23, within hours of the crash, but at least one person was caught up in security delays, bureau chief Jennifer Homendy said.
“We have an air traffic control expert. She waited three hours before calling Houston to see if we could get her here,” Homendy said. “So it was a really big challenge to get the whole team here.”
Latest updates: Airport leaders ask Congress to resolve TSA funding logjam
Homendy said investigators will continue arriving in LaGuardia at least through the early morning hours of March 24.
Officials said the runway at the crash site will be closed for several days. The closure will further delay the hardships faced by travelers, which have been closed for more than five weeks since funding problems caused by partisan tensions began.
President Donald Trump sent federal immigration agents to some airports this week despite concerns that they are not properly trained to perform TSA duties.
As of 8:15 AM ET on March 24, 2026, the spot price of gold is $4,411.99 per oz., according to the latest market data. The stock rose 0.03% and was up $1.52 from its previous closing price of $4,410.47.
A year ago, gold was trading at $3,025.5 per ounce. This means the price has increased by 45.83% over the past 12 months.
Key levels to look out for this week:
52 week low: $2,979.29
52 week high: $5,477.79
Gold is trading 19.46% below its 52-week high. The stock is still 48.09% above its 52-week low.
What is the historical price of gold?
today
1 week ago
1 month ago
1 year ago
$4,411.99
$5,010.71
$5,107.03
$3,025.5
A week ago, gold was trading at $5,010.71 per ounce. The price fell by 11.95% compared to a week ago.
A month ago, gold was trading at $5,107.03 per ounce. The price decreased by 13.61% from the previous month.
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
To invest in gold, you can buy physical coins and bars, buy ETFs that track the price of gold, or invest in mining stocks. Be sure to weigh costs, storage needs, and risk tolerance before making a decision.
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.
NASA is hosting a public event outlining its space exploration goals under President Donald Trump.
NASA will hold a daylong public event to highlight the space agency’s upcoming mission to land astronauts on the moon and other goals under President Donald Trump.
The event, which begins at 9 a.m. ET on Tuesday, March 24, will include a series of panels and briefings at NASA headquarters to outline plans for returning to the moon and building a permanent lunar base.
In just over a week, the first manned mission to the moon in more than 50 years will launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, sending four astronauts on a journey around the moon.
The event comes more than three months after President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at paving the way to ensure the United States remains a major leader in space exploration. The order, signed on December 18, 2025, aimed to “expand the scope of human discovery, secure the nation’s vital economic and security interests, unleash commercial development, and lay the foundations for a new space age.”
Here’s everything you need to know about NASA’s public panel and how to watch it.
NASA hosts ‘high-level’ public event on President Trump’s space policy
NASA will hold a day of public events at its headquarters in Washington, D.C., as it prepares for a historic manned moon mission that could set the stage for a defining era in space exploration in the coming years.
On Tuesday, March 24 at 9 a.m. ET, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman will give opening remarks, followed by a series of “high-level” panel discussions about NASA’s overall space exploration goals under the Trump administration, most notably landing astronauts on the moon with the Artemis program.
NASA said in a press release that the day will conclude with a press conference at 4:45 p.m. ET “to recap the major announcements discussed throughout the day.”
How to watch NASA livestream coverage
In addition to Amazon Prime, the report can be viewed on the agency’s streaming app “NASA+” (also available on YouTube and the agency’s X account). Netflix, which provides some live coverage of NASA events including rocket launches, is not promoting the event on its platform.
What is NASA’s Artemis Moon Program?
NASA’s Artemis moon program, established during President Trump’s first term, is the space agency’s ambitious campaign to return American astronauts to the moon’s surface for the first time since the end of the Apollo program in 1972.
The Artemis mission began in 2022 with an unmanned flight test of NASA’s 322-foot-tall Space Launch System rocket and Orion capsule, which will carry astronauts into lunar orbit.
Four astronauts are currently in the middle of America’s first manned moon mission in more than 50 years as part of Artemis 2. The mission could depart from Kennedy Space Center in Florida as early as April, sending three Americans and one Canadian on a 10-day trip around the moon.
Ultimately, NASA aims to establish a permanent lunar base near the moon’s south pole to facilitate exploration and, ultimately, the first human expedition to Mars.
When will astronauts return to the moon? What you need to know about the 2028 landing
The Artemis 4 mission currently aims to land on the moon by 2028.
NASA leaders announced updated target deadlines at the end of February and also unveiled a new mission under the moon program, now known as Artemis 3. That mission, planned for 2027, would send a crew of astronauts into orbit around Earth in an Orion capsule, where they would join and dock with at least one of the lunar landers being developed by billionaire-owned Blue Origin, founded by Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
After the first manned moon landing, Isaacman plans another manned moon landing in late 2028, and at least one manned moon landing every year thereafter.
Eric Lagatta is a Space Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Please contact elagatta@usatodayco.com.
The partial government shutdown has caused widespread disruption at airports across the country as TSA employee absenteeism has skyrocketed, employees are forced to work without pay and travelers are forced to wait hours in security lines.
TSA employee absenteeism reached its highest level last weekend since the partial shutdown began five weeks ago, according to the Department of Homeland Security. More than one-third of TSA employees at airports in Houston, New York City and Atlanta were absent from work or called in sick, the agency said.
As a result, TSA lines and wait times at airports across the country have ballooned, forcing travelers to wait in long lines, some of which extend outside terminals.
Some airports, including major hubs like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, are encouraging travelers to arrive at least a few hours before their flight to give them enough time to get through security.
“I’ll leave this alone”: ICE officers deployed to partially closed U.S. airports
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump announced that hundreds of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will be sent to airports on Monday to help understaffed TSA operations. The president said White House border czar Tom Homan would be in charge of the effort.
DHS has said it would not release details about ICE deployments, but a person briefed on the matter told Reuters that the current plan is to deploy officers to 14 locations, but that number is subject to change.
As chaos continues at the airport, here’s how to check TSA wait times.
How to check TSA wait times
There are several ways to check TSA wait times, but some airports do not provide real-time updates.
Is the information on the MyTSA mobile app and TSA website up to date?
The TSA’s official website and app, MyTSA, have not been updated due to the ongoing government shutdown, the agency said in a Feb. 17 statement. Banners on the TSA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection websites warn: “Due to the expiration of federal funding, this website will no longer be actively managed.”
TSA previously confirmed to USA TODAY via email that both the MyTSA mobile app and the agency’s wait time tracker were down due to the partial shutdown.
This differs from the previous government shutdown, which lasted from October to November 2025, when TSA security wait times continued to update as usual.
How to check delays and cancellations
Passengers can also check directly if their flight has been delayed or canceled using the flight number on the airline’s website. Anyone who wants to check overall delays can do so on FlightAware, which tracks arrival and departure times for U.S. airports.
What happens if I miss my flight?
If you get stuck in a TSA line and miss your flight, don’t expect a refund from the airline.
Airlines must refund tickets if the flight is canceled, changed, or significantly delayed due to factors within the airline’s control. According to the Department of Transportation, airlines do not have to refund tickets if a flight is canceled or delayed due to weather or other reasons.
TSA wait times are not considered the airline’s responsibility, so delays in passing through security are not eligible for a refund.
Contributions: Melina Kahn, Zach Wictor, Thao Nguyen, Eileen Wright, Charles Ventura / USA TODAY
Michelle Del Rey is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Please contact mdelrey@usatoday.com..
Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact her at sshafiq@usatodayco.com and follow X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.
Johnny C. Taylor Jr. answers workplace questions every week on USA TODAY. Taylor is president and CEO of SHRM, the world’s largest human resources professional organization, and author of Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.
Have a question? Please submit here.
Question: Even though I am doing well, my manager calls me “impatient” when I ask about growth opportunities. I feel like that’s a stereotype about my generation. I’m 26 years old. How can I claim a promotion without creating tension with my manager? – Jamal
Answer: A desire to grow is fine. How you pursue growth will determine whether you build trust or create friction.
Let’s deal with labels first. words like impatient Young employees, in particular, tend to be swayed too casually. In some cases, legitimate concerns about preparation and timing may be omitted. It can also be a convenient way to end a legitimate conversation. In any case, the label itself is not the main problem. What matters is whether your boss clearly tells you what it actually takes to get a promotion.
The reality that many employees overlook is that good performance alone doesn’t automatically lead to promotion. Growth decisions are driven by business needs, structure, budget, timing, and whether there are roles to transition. Managers are often aware of constraints that are invisible to employees. When these realities are not openly discussed, dissatisfaction fills the gap.
Make sure you know what you’re looking for before revisiting the topic. There’s a meaningful difference between asking for a promotion and asking for growth opportunities. Promotions are limited, perfunctory, and often slow-moving. Development (increased responsibilities, expanded projects, visibility with senior leadership) is more flexible and often the clearest signal of readiness.
If you want to grow, say so. Don’t frame the conversation around speed or rights. Build around contribution. A strong approach would be: We would like to continue increasing our added value. What kind of experience and responsibility do you need to take to the next level? That changes the conversation when to whata productive discussion will take place here.
overwork? How do I ask for help if my workload is too much? Ask Johnny
It’s also worth remembering that some of the most valuable growth doesn’t come from an immediate title change. Working beyond your formal role and building new capabilities often prepares you for future opportunities, both within and outside your organization. Either way, your progress is still important, even if it doesn’t immediately reflect on your org chart.
Tone is more important than most people realize. Even the best people can do themselves a disservice by focusing on results and sounding transactional without recognizing the process. Advocating for yourself doesn’t mean looking for immediate results. It means asking thoughtful questions, listening carefully, and demonstrating a willingness to do the work necessary to land your next opportunity.
Ask for a roadmap. A good manager should be able to explain what skills, behaviors and results they are looking for, and how progress will be measured. If you can end the conversation with clearer expectations and timelines, that’s progress, even if the answer wasn’t what you expected.
Now about the other side of the coin. If your manager consistently dismisses growth inquiries with labels rather than guidance, that’s a concern. No one is going to get better by calling an impatient person without providing direction, feedback, or next steps. That may indicate a lack of investment in talent development, rather than a flaw in your approach.
In such a case, try broadening your horizons. Seek guidance from other leaders. Look for opportunities to develop your skills and increase your visibility beyond your immediate manager. And yes, evaluate whether your current environment really supports the kind of development you’re looking for.
Ambition is not the problem. I’m not good at communication. When you base your advocacy on contribution, preparation, and results rather than urgency, you demonstrate maturity and leadership potential. When done correctly, assertiveness does not cause tension. It builds trust. And that ultimately drives progress.
The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.
stand out: As a recent university graduate, how can I share my experience?Ask Johnny
Federal data shows an increase in the number of reported sex crimes on cruise ships, but experts say many incidents likely go unreported.
Allegations of sexual assault on cruise ships increased last year, according to Department of Transportation data.
A total of 131 sexual crimes were reported on ships embarking and disembarking in the United States in 2025, up from 120 the previous year. These included 51 sexual assaults and 80 rapes.
The overall figure was on par with 2023, when 131 sexual crimes were reported, including 52 sexual assaults and 79 rapes. There were 87 sexual assault charges in 2022 and 101 in 2019 before the coronavirus pandemic shut down the industry and cruises resumed in mid-2021, according to DOT incident reports. The two years of available DOT data did not distinguish between sexual assault and rape.
The actual number may be higher. According to RAINN, only one in three victims report sexual assault to law enforcement.
The Cruise Lines International Association, the cruise industry’s major trade group, did not immediately respond to USA TODAY’s request for comment.
Cruise ship crime: What you need to know if you are sexually assaulted on a cruise
This increase comes in response to increased demand from the cruise industry. According to CLIA’s 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report, 34.6 million international cruise passengers will set sail in 2024, up from 31.7 million the year before and 20.4 million in 2022. In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization recorded 29.7 million guests.
The CLIA report notes that 37.7 million passengers are expected to take to the high seas on cruises in 2025, but the 2026 report has not yet been released.
Michael Winkleman, a maritime attorney with Ripcon at Margulies & Winkleman in Pennsylvania, told USA TODAY in 2022 that these crimes happen more often than guests realize.
“I think the average cruise passenger just doesn’t know that rape and sexual assault is prevalent on cruise ships,” he said.
He cited both alcohol and the lack of independent law enforcement on board (although cruise ships have their own security) as contributing factors.
Erin Robinson, RAINN’s head of media relations at the time, also emphasized that the victims were not at fault. “Regardless of the circumstances of a case of sexual violence, only the perpetrator is responsible,” she said at the time.
If you are a victim of sexual assault, please call the number below. National Sexual Assault Hotline 800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit: hotline.rainn.org/online Receive confidential support.
Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. Please contact us at ndiller@usatoday.com.
The appeals process may seem difficult, but it is very effective.
Dana George |The Motley Fool
Medicare announces scammers are targeting Americans during recruitment period
If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from Medicare, be careful. Officials say it may be fraud.
scripps news
No matter what type of Medicare you have, Original or Medicare Advantage, you may face a prior authorization or denial of service. Claims may be denied for a variety of reasons, including coding errors, Coordination of Benefits (COB) issues, and insufficient proof of medical necessity.
If you have Medicare Advantage, you may have found the past few years particularly difficult. Not only are retirement health care costs high, but the nonprofit KFF reports that Medicare Advantage fully or partially denied 4.1 million prior authorization requests in 2024 alone.
You probably never thought about denying Medicare when you were planning for retirement, but all is not lost. Appealing a Medicare denial can be very effective. Although Medicare beneficiaries rarely appeal their decisions, the majority of appeals result in Medicare completely or partially reversing the initial denial. Here are the basic steps to file a dispute:
Step 1: Understand rejections
Carefully review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Medicare Advantage (MA) instructions to understand why your original claim was denied.
Step 2: Act quickly
If you have Original Medicare, you usually have 120 days to file an appeal. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you should check with your insurance company, as they often have shorter deadlines.
Step 3: Get your doctor involved
Ask your health care provider for documentation detailing why a treatment, medication, or particular service is medically necessary. Often, a meeting in which the doctor speaks directly to the medical examiner can turn the tide and overturn the initial denial.
Step 4: File your first appeal
If you disagree with this decision, please submit a Redetermination Request (Form CMS-20027).
Step 5: Don’t Take No for an Answer
If your initial claim was not helpful and you still believe your original claim should have been approved, please submit a Medicare Reconsideration Request (Form CMS-20033).
Step 6: Request a hearing
If your Medicare reconsideration request does not resolve your issue, request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This can be done by filing the Request for Review of Administrative Law Judge Hearing or Dismissal Form (OMHA-100).
where to go for help
The appeal process can seem daunting, but fortunately, there are several ways to get help.
The Center for Medicare Rights offers a toll-free national helpline at (800) 333-4114.
The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) can walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have. For free assistance in your state, please call (877) 839-2675.
You can ask a family member, friend, doctor, or attorney to help you with the process or act on your behalf by completing the Medicare Authorization for Disclosure of Personal Health Information form (OMB-0938-0930).
Whether you’re living on Social Security benefits, retirement accounts, or a combination of multiple sources, it’s your hard-earned money. If Medicare denies coverage, you have the right to have your voice heard.
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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Purdue coach Matt Painter talks about the value of veteran leadership during March Madness
Purdue coach Matt Painter explains why veteran experience and trust helps his team stay stable and perform during high-pressure March Madness moments.
The second round of the NCAA Tournament was dominated by top-seeded teams, with Texas, one of the most iconic brands in college sports, the only double-digit seed to make it to the Sweet 16.
Texas being a “Cinderella” in 2025-2026 is fitting for where men’s college basketball is as a sport in an era of name, image and visibility. Last season, the only double-digit seed to make it to the Sweet 16 was the University of Arkansas, a talented team led by one of the greatest coaches of all time in John Calipari.
Sweet 16 predictions: Experts select players who will advance to March Madness bracket
March Madness winners and losers: The Big Ten owns the Sweet 16
No. 12 seed High Point did everything it could to break that mold on Saturday, March 21, but ultimately lost to No. 4 Arkansas, 94-88, in a hard-fought game. No. 11 VCU also had a chance to become the last mid-major to advance to the Sweet 16, but was crushed by No. 3 Illinois, 76-55.
Only 16 teams remain, and there’s only one week left until the Final Four returns to Indianapolis. Here are the five worst moments from the second round of the 2026 NCAA Tournament.
5 worst moments from the second round of the NCAA Tournament
Vanderbilt star Tyler Tanner nearly made a game-winning shot in the second round against No. 4 Nebraska, but the ball bounced off the backboard and the rim multiple times and went off the rim.
Tanner was already putting on a career performance with 27 points, four assists, and four steals. With 2.2 seconds left, he caught an inbounds pass on the other side of the court and swung it from behind half court, but it just missed, causing the entire Vanderbilt bench to kneel in disappointment.
Nebraska’s Braden Frager hit the game-winning driving layup, giving his school its second NCAA Tournament title and its first Sweet 16 appearance. Unfortunately, either Vanderbilt or Nebraska ends up going home after one of the best second-round games in recent memory.
“We were so close to making the Sweet 16,” Vandy coach Mark Byington said. “It’s going to take a while for us to get back on our feet.”
Florida was shocked in the second round by No. 9 seed Iowa, losing 73-72 when Alvaro Folgueiras hit the game-winning 3-pointer with less than five seconds left. It was a brutal end to the season for the Gators, who won 16 of their final 17 games of the regular season and returned to the No. 1 seed.
Florida looked like a top favorite to win the national championship, especially with an impressive frontcourt of Alex Condon, Thomas Ho and Ruben Chiniel. But sometimes March Madness hits and unfortunately that happened to Florida before the first weekend was over.
Iowa finished the game on a 7-3 run, which was the ultimate difference in a tight back-and-forth game.
Kentucky made bad history
Kentucky overcame a scare in the first round against Santa Clara, but Otega Oweh’s wild shot at the buzzer forced overtime. The Wildcats kept Iowa State within reach for the first half of the March 22 game, but the Cyclones pulled away and won a dominating 82-63 victory.
Kentucky played sloppy basketball against Iowa State, setting a program record for most turnovers (20) in an NCAA Tournament game. The 19-point loss was also Kentucky’s worst loss in a March Madness game since 1972.
Second-year coach Mark Pope faces a pivotal offseason, especially with Oweh’s eligibility exhausted.
david punch nose
TCU star David Punch took a shot in the face from Duke University’s Cameron Boozer late in the second half of a close game on Saturday, March 21, but his situation remained the same after he returned to the game. Boozer was called for flagrant 1 on the play, but Punch failed to shoot the free throw and returned to the bench with blood running down his face.
Punch Jr. briefly went to the locker room but missed the remainder of the first half, returning in the final 20 minutes of the game.
TCU led 38-34 at halftime, but then collapsed and lost to Duke, 81-58, ending the season. In the first-round game against Ohio State, he had 16 points and 13 rebounds, but against the Blue Devils he was limited to 4 points on 1-of-10 shooting.
High Point season ends
High Point’s program’s best season ended in the fourth round against the University of Arkansas, where they won their first NCAA Tournament game before losing 94-88. The Panthers dominated the regular season, finishing the regular season with a 30-4 record and winning the Big South Conference Tournament.
Chase Johnston became the latest March Madness legend in High Point’s win over Wisconsin, and Rob Martin led his inner Kemba Walker with 30 points and five assists in High Point’s loss to Arkansas.
High Point is a junior high school program in the NCAA Tournament and hopes to continue the momentum it has just returned from a highly respected road trip.
Black families in Altadena say insurance assistance is lacking.
More than a year after the deadly Eaton Fire, Black families in Altadena say their insurance companies are not paying out claims because of rising cleanup costs.
While wildfires and hurricanes grab the headlines, another type of severe weather can pose unexpected risks to homeowners and insurance companies.
More than 43.5 million U.S. properties are at moderate or higher risk from hail damage, according to a new report from real estate data provider Cotality. Hailstorms can now cause economic losses comparable to Category 4 hurricanes, and the damage could cost up to $17.84 trillion to rebuild, the report concludes.
In 2025, the United States will record 142 days of hail damage, seven more days than in 2024 and well above the 20-year average of 122 days, according to Kotality. During these disasters, more than 600,000 homes were hit by hailstones of 2 inches or more.
Beyond changing climate patterns, the report said, the aging of the housing stock is also making homes more at risk. Older roofs are more fragile than new ones and can break when hail hits your home.
The increased risk also stems from the choices Americans make about where they live.
The report says Texas has the most properties in the nation at risk, with nearly 8 million properties at risk, and potential rebuilding costs of $3.09 trillion.
The massive storm system that occurred in Texas in June 2023 demonstrated the enormous potential for hail damage. “From June 11 to June 15, hail of more than 1 inch affected more than 680,000 homes. Kotality estimated that these storms resulted in $7 billion to $10 billion in insured losses, 95% of which was due to hail.”
Demographic data also highlight deeper risks in other parts of the Midwest. “Secondary markets such as Minneapolis, St. Louis, Kansas City, and Denver are located dangerously close to major weather collision zones and are often targeted by severe spring and summer storms,” the report said.
Importantly, Kotality’s early research shows that many of the more affordable regions, such as the Midwest, where the youngest buyers live, are hardest hit by hail.
These tradeoffs come with risks, Cotality analysts wrote in May 2025.
“What began as a quest for affordability may end up in losses, not because of bad decisions but because of systems that have not kept up with the environment. Resilience is no longer an ideal, but a requirement,” the report says.
Georgia became the first state to temporarily suspend gas taxes for drivers.
Gasoline prices soar as Strait of Hormuz closes due to Iran war
Gas prices are rising as Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz, threatening oil supplies and raising concerns about the impact on the global economy.
Georgia has become the first state to suspend gasoline taxes for drivers who refuel at the pump, as fuel prices soar due to the U.S. and Israel’s war against Iran.
But I don’t think many other states, led by Republicans or Democrats, will soon follow suit.
At least three other states have pending legislation to reduce or suspend gas taxes, but two states are not moving anywhere.
Pump prices have increased by more than $1 from a month ago, according to AAA. The national average on March 23 was $3.95 per gallon.
Drivers across the United States are calling for an end to President Donald Trump’s Feb. 28 order to attack Iran. Iran responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz, preventing about one-fifth of the world’s oil from moving to global markets.
As Americans worry about soaring prices, at least one state is trying to provide some temporary relief. On March 20, Republican Gov. Brian Kemp suspended the state’s motor fuel tax for 60 days. The excise tax on gasoline is currently 33.3 cents per gallon, and a few cents more on diesel.
“Hardworking Georgians know best how to spend their money, not their government,” Kemp said in a statement.
In Utah, a bill is on Republican Gov. Spencer Cox’s desk that would temporarily lower taxes by 15% to nearly 32 cents from July through December, said Lexi Elio, a researcher with the bipartisan National Conference of State Legislatures.
In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis, also a Republican, warned of suspending the state’s gas tax.
“Our ability to influence fuel prices is really minimal at best,” he told reporters on March 19. “We have had petrol holidays in the past. Sometimes prices are just increased so that consumers don’t notice the difference,” he said.
He said Floridians don’t feel relieved from past gas holidays because of fluctuating oil prices. Rather, he said the ultimate solution is to ensure good international markets, which is a federal issue.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democratic presidential candidate, cited Florida’s gas tax deferral as an example of how shutdowns benefit businesses rather than drivers.
“This is just lining Big Oil’s pockets. They’re paying the price,” he told reporters on March 19.
He said the state’s gas tax is 61 cents a gallon and helps pay for roads, bridges, jobs and infrastructure investments. California pays the highest amount in the nation in gasoline taxes. Two state bills have been introduced to freeze gas taxes, but questions have been raised about the revenue loss, Elio said.
“Donald Trump is the driving force behind soaring gas and oil prices, not just here in California but across the country,” Newsom said.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul (D) similarly recognizes the risks of repealing the gas tax. He told reporters on March 16 that when taxes are cut, businesses simply raise prices, so consumers only see higher prices.
“This is a problem created by the federal government,” she said, adding that the federal gas tax is nearly 20 cents a gallon.
“We need them to feel safe and help us here,” she said. “This is what they built. You have to solve it. You break it, you fix it.”
In Maryland, Gov. Wes Moore and the Democrats who control the state Legislature are reportedly rejecting a gas tax moratorium and instead blaming President Trump for rising costs. The governor’s office said the 2022 gas tax suspension cost the state $98 million.
“This war is costing more than $1 billion a day, and the prices of oil, fuel and everyday goods are soaring,” Moore’s spokesman Ammar Moussa said in a statement. “The best way to lower prices is to address the causes of the pain, not to shift the costs of Donald Trump’s wars onto Maryland families.”
Coast Guard inspects Hawaii neighborhood for flooding after flash flooding
After heavy rain fell in Hawaii, Coast Guard crews scoured the Waialua and Haleiwa areas for signs of distress.
On Monday, March 23, crews and residents in Hawaii were assessing the widespread destruction caused by the worst flooding the state has experienced in more than 20 years.
A series of Kona storms, subtropical cyclones that typically affect the leeward side of the Hawaiian Islands, brought devastating rainfall and strong winds to Oahu and Maui. Over the weekend, flooding washed away homes, damaged roads, submerged vehicles and threatened a major dam on northern Oahu.
“On average, one to two Kona storms impact Hawaii each season, but it is extremely rare for two Kona storms to impact the Hawaiian Islands within the same month, especially within a week,” said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski.
About 5,500 people in northern Honolulu were ordered to evacuate due to the storm, and more than 200 people were rescued from devastating flooding, authorities said. The evacuation order has since been lifted, but much of the state remained under a flood watch through the weekend.
Forecasters and officials warned on March 23 that a flood watch remained in place for Hawaii Island through the afternoon as residents returned to their damaged homes. A flash flood warning was also issued for Oahu until the afternoon of March 23, according to the Honolulu Emergency Management Agency.
Aerial photos and video showed flooded areas and destroyed homes covered in thick mud. Scott Humber, a spokesman for the Honolulu Emergency Operations Center, told USA TODAY that it was “too early to make reliable damage estimates,” but that authorities continue to respond to the storm’s effects.
“Our immediate focus remains the safety of life, supporting affected residents, and stabilizing affected areas,” Humber said in a statement. “As the situation improves, city teams will continue to assess damage throughout the affected areas, particularly on the North Shore as well as Oahu’s Leeward Coast.”
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Cleanup and restoration work underway
In a news release on Sunday, March 22, Hawaii Governor Josh Green said the immediate threat from the storm has passed and state and county officials are working to assess the damage and remove debris.
Several Honolulu departments assisted in removing debris on March 23, Humber said. The Honolulu Office of Marine Safety and the Honolulu Fire Department also assisted in safety efforts, and local police provided traffic control and security.
“We are now deploying additional resources directly to Waialua, including more than 20 roll-off dumpsters, to assist with the large-scale cleanup, and we are waiving tipping fees to make it easier for residents to dispose of debris,” Humber added.
Green said flood damage could total $1 billion. These costs include damage to numerous homes, roads, schools, the airport, and Maui’s hospital.
Although the storm affected many areas of the island, Oahu’s North Shore was particularly hard hit. The Honolulu Water Department issued boil water notices to North Shore residents, warning them of the risk of harmful bacteria. The agency could not give an estimate of when water services would be resumed.
weather: Can we blame El Niño or La Niña for March’s extreme weather?
The governor advised residents to “remain vigilant as the situation stabilizes,” noting that some areas are still experiencing flooding, road closures and infrastructure damage. He urged the public to avoid flooded and dangerous areas.
“Hawaii’s strength is its people,” Green said in a statement. “During this storm, we saw neighbors helping neighbors, communities coming together, and emergency teams working tirelessly to keep everyone safe. We want to thank our essential workers and partners for their incredible dedication, and we are deeply grateful to the people of Hawaii for looking out for each other during this difficult time.”
Hawaii’s worst flooding in more than 20 years
Green said the flooding in Hawaii was the worst to occur in the state since the Manoa floods of 2004. The October 30, 2004 flood was one of several flash floods that occurred during a storm that brought heavy rain. Rainfall peaked at 1.29 inches in 15 minutes and 8.71 inches in 6 hours.
The Mānoa River overflowed in several areas, with the worst of the flooding occurring when waves of water broke through residential areas and onto the University of Hawaii at Mānoa campus. According to the National Weather Service, flooding destroyed irreplaceable documents in the basement of the Hamilton Library and damaged several labs conducting important experiments.
No deaths or injuries were reported, but the damage amounted to approximately $85 million at the time. Approximately 120 homes were damaged and a pedestrian bridge over the Manoa River was destroyed.
Contributors: Dinah Voyles Pulver, Jeanine Santucci, Kate Perez, USA TODAY
USA TODAY’s Fernando Cervantes takes a look at the states with the most Powerball and Mega Millions jackpots.
The Powerball jackpot has increased to $133 million, with a cash value of $60.3 million, ahead of the drawing on Monday, March 23rd.
Powerball says the odds of hitting the jackpot are about 1 in 292.2 million, but the overall odds of winning the prize are about 1 in 25. Since the lottery began in 1992, there have been nearly 200 Powerball jackpot winners, with states with the most winners in Indiana, Missouri, Minnesota, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, Powerball said.
The most recent Powerball jackpot was won on March 2, when a player who bought a ticket in Arkansas won a $251 million prize.
Here’s what you need to know about Picture Monday.
What are the winning Powerball numbers for March 23rd?
The winning numbers for Monday, March 23rd’s Powerball drawing are 12, 18, 47, 56, 63, and Powerball is 1. The “power play” multiplier is 10x.
feel lucky: Which Powerball number should you choose?
Do I have to be a US citizen or resident to play Powerball?
The short answer is “no.”
You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or resident to play Powerball. Anyone visiting any of the 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands may purchase lottery tickets from authorized and licensed retailers, regardless of nationality, as long as they meet the legal age requirements (usually 18 years old) at the time of purchase.
Top 10 Powerball Jackpots
$2.04 billion in California on November 7, 2022
December 24, 2025, $1.817 billion in Arkansas.
$1.787 billion in Missouri and Texas on September 6, 2025
$1.765 billion in California on October 11, 2023
January 13, 2016, $1.586 billion in California, Florida, and Tennessee
April 6, 2024, $1.326 billion in Oregon.
$1.08 billion in California on July 19, 2023
January 1, 2024, $842.4 million in Michigan.
March 27, 2019, $768.4 million in Wisconsin
August 23, 2017, $758.7 million in Massachusetts
death and taxes How much tax would you have to pay if you won $935 million in Powerball? A lot.
How to play Powerball
Powerball tickets cost $2 per play and are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This can be done at a variety of locations, including local convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery stores. In some states, you can purchase Powerball tickets online depending on the local jurisdiction.
Once you have your ticket, you have to choose six numbers. Five of them are white balls numbered from 1 to 69. The red Powerball range is 1-26. You can also add a “Power Play” for $1, which increases your winnings on all non-jackpot prizes. “Power Play” multipliers can increase your winnings by 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, or 10x.
A “Quick Pick” option is also available if you want the computer to select the numbers for you. To win the jackpot, players must match all five white balls with the red Powerball in any order.
Powerball drawings are held on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday nights. The winnings continue to increase even if no one wins the jackpot.
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact us at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow us at X @fern_cerv_.
To be granted asylum, applicants must prove they faced persecution based on race, religion, nationality, or political opinion. Membership in a particular social group. It can take many years.
Is Trump support declining due to immigration policy?
The growing backlash against ICE’s tactics is accelerating a major shift in public opinion regarding President Trump’s immigration strategy.
WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court will consider March 24 whether the federal government can deport asylum seekers as the battle over immigration roiled the nation.s At the US-Mexico border.
The practice, often called “metering,” is no longer used by Democratic and Republican administrations alike to control the number of people who can apply for asylum each day. But the Trump administration wants to make it available, calling the policy “an important tool to address border surges.”
The Justice Department asked the Supreme Court to overturn a ruling that requires the government to process claims once someone arrives at a port of entry.
Immigrant rights groups and asylum seekers who challenge the policy say the government uses it to expel desperate people., even if there are sufficient staffing and other resources to deal with them.
The Department of Homeland Security’s internal watchdog agency said in a 2020 report that some Border Patrol agents routinely told migrants they could not process them, regardless of a port’s actual capacity or capacity.
“This case was never about capacity,” said Nicole Elizabeth Ramos of the immigrant rights group Al Otro Lado, who helped file the first class action lawsuit in 2017. “It was about cutting off access to groups of people that the government, especially the president and his administration, deemed undesirable.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection says it needs flexibility to manage a variety of challenges, including interdicting drug trafficking and facilitating lawful trade and travel.
Can the US legally turn back asylum seekers?
To be granted asylum, which can take years, applicants must prove they faced persecution on the basis of one of five protected grounds: race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1986 allows anyone “physically present in or arriving in the United States” to apply for asylum.
The San Francisco-based Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals said the best way to interpret “arrival” is that it does not mean the same thing as “physically present,” which would make it redundant.
Rather, the term “includes people who encounter officials at the border, no matter which side of the border they stand,” the divided panel of judges said.
Otherwise, the court said, the law provides incentives for immigrants to try to avoid crossing the border, which Congress likely did not intend.
The Justice Department says the interpretation contradicts the plain text of the law.
“The ordinary meaning of ‘arrival’ refers to entering a designated place, rather than merely approaching it,” the government said in its appeal.
Border policies adopted by past administrations
The practice of not letting asylum seekers pass through checkpoints became a regular practice during the Obama administration, when Border Patrol agents began turning away hundreds of Haitian asylum seekers at California ports of entry.
Customs and Border Protection agents can prevent illegal immigrants from physically setting foot on U.S. soil if they determine the border crossing is too crowded.
The policy was formalized during the first Trump administration, and the Biden administration lifted the policy but made exceptions.
As a result, asylum seekers lived for months in makeshift camps on the Mexican side of the border without reliable food, shelter or security, immigrant rights groups say.
Religious groups support immigrants
Their lawsuit is supported by the Catholic Church and other religious groups.
“Every major faith tradition has a core value of protecting the stranger,” said Liz Theoharis, executive director of the Kairos Center for Religion, Rights and Social Justice. “For Christians like me, protecting and welcoming immigrants is one of Jesus’ first and most powerful teachings.”
But Eric Wessan, a top appellate lawyer with the Iowa Attorney General’s Office, said the justices likely agreed to take the case because they believe the appellate court misread the law.
“As a matter of text, it is really hard to believe that our Supreme Court would interpret ‘within the United States’ to include people who are stopped outside the United States and outside its borders,” he said.
Ciara and Russell Wilson bring their kids to Fashion Scholarship Foundation gala
At the Fashion Scholarship Fund gala, honorees Ciara Wilson and Russell Wilson told USA TODAY why it’s important for their children to be together.
NEW YORK — Travis Scott wowed the audience on stage at the Fashion Scholarship Fund’s 89th Annual Gala on Monday, March 23. In 2025, the hip-hop artist collaborated with the Foundation to create the “Cactus Jack Design Ethos 101” program, awarding each recipient $10,000 and mentorship.
Scott, whose real name is Jack Vermon Webster II, appeared near the end of the evening’s schedule to congratulate the students in attendance. Scott, who founded the Cactus Jack brand and collaborated with Fanatics and Jordan Brand, acknowledged that “I was going through so much today,” but said that still, “nothing is going to stop me from looking to the future.”
The artist did not elaborate on what prevented him from participating.
The Fashion Scholarship Fund is a nonprofit organization that works directly with students attending colleges and universities across the United States. The foundation awarded more than $1.9 million in scholarships to the Class of 2026.
Scott spoke at a gala on Manhattan’s West Side after appearing at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic in Los Angeles on Saturday.
“Thank you everyone for understanding (and) believing in what we’re doing,” Scott, 34, continued. “I can’t wait to see you all in the future (and) I can’t wait to see what you all create.”
The multi-hyphenate remained on stage as the night’s biggest honor, the $25,000 FSF President’s Award, was awarded to the highest-scoring scholar finalist. Clark Atlanta University student Quan Jackson won the award for his pitch for a consumer-driven collaboration between LEGO and the label KidSuper.
Jackson was also named Virgil Abloh’s “Postmodern” Scholar by the foundation.
Ciara and Russell Wilson turn FSF Gala into a cute family night event
In addition to the students who won scholarships, the night’s honorees included businessman Stephen Larson, celebrity stylist Law Roach, and the power couple of Grammy-winning singer Ciara and Super Bowl-winning quarterback Russell Wilson.
The couple’s appearance comes on the heels of Wilson’s new partnership with Amazon to distribute fully customizable jerseys under the 3Brand line to youth teams, recreational leagues and schools across the country.
Wilson and Ciara also attended the event with two of their four children, 12-year-old son Future Jr. (Wilson is rapper Future and Ciara’s stepfather from a previous relationship) and 10-year-old daughter Sienna. The two children looked relaxed on the red carpet, posing for pictures with their parents.
Ciara, 40, told USA TODAY: “Obviously they have a lot of energy, but it’s so nice to see them in a moment like this because they are the future.” “And we want kids to be inspired in a room like this and see what mom and dad are doing at work today.”
But it wasn’t all fun and games for the two children. Their mother said she would return home to finish her homework after the event.
Queen Elizabeth met with 13 American presidents. Who was her favorite?
President Trump’s first and only state dinner with Queen Elizabeth was a highlight for him and a sign of his success.
When President Trump arrived on Marine One in 2019, Queen Elizabeth was dismayed to find that the flowers in Buckingham Palace’s garden were flattened.
But the state visit to the country was a highlight of Trump’s first term and valuable for Britain as it builds a relationship with the controversial US president. A few weeks later, the Queen used that relationship to facilitate a diplomatic counterattack.
Here are five takeaways from USA TODAY’s Susan Page’s new book, Queens and Presidents: The Hidden Hands That Shaped History. The book, published by Harper, explores the Queen’s relationships with a series of US presidents, from her tense days as a young princess visiting President Harry Truman to attending the final state dinner of her 70-year reign in Trump’s honor.
1. “It ruined the garden.”
On June 3, 2019, the President and First Lady Melania Trump arrived at Buckingham Palace on Marine One.
Her Majesty the Queen watched in horror from the palace steps as a whirlwind of helicopter wings flattened the flowers, leaving divots on the lawn. “She was furious about it,” said a senior palace aide.
She was still steaming when Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison arrived later. “Come and see my lawn,” she told him. “It’s in ruins.”
2. Quiz for the Queen
During a lively conversation at the Gilded State Dinner that night, President Trump unsuccessfully tried to persuade the queen to bring up the 14 other U.S. presidents he had met, 12 of them while in office.
“I said, ‘So, can I ask who your favorite president was?'” he said.
She answered, “Why? Everyone was so nice.”
He was dazzled by her charming technique of turning. “I couldn’t get her to say bad things about people.”
3. What about Harry and Meghan?
Her judgment also included Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan, their wayward grandson and his controversial bride. Seven months later, they announced they were stepping down from their duties as senior royals.
No one would have missed the melodramatic saga surrounding them, but Trump is almost certainly one of the few guests to raise the topic directly with Elizabeth.
“I asked her about it constantly,” Trump said. “I say, ‘Come on, tell me the truth.'”
She answered, “No, no, very good.”
Trump was not persuaded. “I think it really hurt her,” he said. “Frankly, I don’t think they treat her with the respect she deserves.”
4. Important royal calls
Three weeks after President Trump made his triumphant return to London, trouble arose.
A devastating assessment of the president written by Kim Darroch, the British ambassador to the US, two years ago has been leaked to British intelligence. sunday mail. Darroch wrote that Trump “radiated anxiety” and led a dysfunctional administration.
Trump was furious. Mr Darroch was forced to resign.
There, he received a phone call from the Queen and a conversation that had not been previously reported took place. “She couldn’t believe it. She thought he was a terrible person,” Trump said. “She apologized,” he said, justifying it. “That wasn’t an apology.”
“She didn’t call (Mr. Darroch) stupid, but she basically showed him that he is a stupid person,” Trump said.
Whatever she said was enough. The crisis is over.
5. Trump has a theory.
The Queen refused to answer questions, but then President Trump said others had told her she had a favorite president.
It was him.
“We just got along,” Trump said. His ambassador, Woody Johnson, agreed. “The president has a very keen sense of things like that,” Johnson said.
Several senior officials in the palace and British government reacted with surprise and laughter at the idea that her relationship with President Trump might have matched the affection she felt for some of her predecessors. Dwight Eisenhower was a wartime hero, and Ronald Reagan was a friend who bonded over horses and Hollywood. Her fondness for Barack Obama struck officials on both sides of the Atlantic.
Some former presidents and first ladies were also skeptical.
As Joe Biden shook his head, Jill Biden said, “That’s hysterical.” “Oh, that certainly fits his personality.”
Hillary Clinton responded, “Why am I not surprised by that?” She added, “I don’t think there’s any evidence to believe that that could be true.”
Bill Clinton recalled conversations he had with Obama and Biden in 2024. “At Ethel Kennedy’s funeral, we all joked about how she was trying to make all the Democratic presidents think she was their favorite. And she was shrewd about it, Ethel was. And Queen Elizabeth was no dummy either. She knew what she was doing…”
Bill Clinton said he would have been “shocked” if Elizabeth had identified a favorite. “I have no idea what she really thought of us. All I know is… how I felt about her and that I thought she was someone really special.”
Susan Page is USA TODAY’s Washington bureau chief and the bestselling author of biographies of Barbara Bush, Nancy Pelosi, and Barbara Walters.
Click here to reserve “The Queen and the President.”
Job-hugging is a new form of job-hopping due to the slowdown in the labor market.
America is becoming a nation of pessimistic workers.
For the first time, more workers in a Gallup poll have negative views about their future. A Gallup poll of U.S. workers conducted between Oct. 30 and Nov. 13 found that even though many indicators point to a relatively strong economy, more workers report struggling than thriving.
This is a stunning reversal from 2022 and 2023, when more than half of employees had positive outlooks.
As a life evaluation index, Gallup asked people to imagine a ladder with the lowest rung representing the worst possible life and the highest rung representing the best possible life. These horizontal lines are numbered from 0 to 10.
Gallup classified people as thriving if they rated their current lives as a 7 or above and their expected lives in five years as an 8 or above, said Jim Harter, Gallup’s chief scientist for workplace management and well-being. People who rate their current life and future life as a 4 or lower are classified as suffering.
“People who are neither suffering nor thriving are considered to be struggling,” he says.
What’s behind the dark thinking?
America’s unemployment rate may be low, but so is job growth. And the slowing pace of hiring, the weakest labor market in years, has many workers feeling anxious.
Recession mood is building as job market confidence has fallen to near historic lows, with just 28% of workers saying now is a good time to find a good job, down from nearly 70% in mid-2022, according to a Gallup poll. The study called the 42-point drop “the largest collapse in job market confidence recorded by Gallup over the past four years.”
Restless workers are feeling stuck because they can’t find comparable roles with the same pay and benefits, Harter said.
Approximately 30% of all employees agreed or strongly agreed that they feel “stuck” in their current job. A larger proportion (43%) said they would stay in their current role primarily because it would be too difficult or expensive to leave.
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People who have jobs are holding onto jobs even though they don’t want them, while people who want jobs are having a hard time finding them.
“Employees have fewer options for what they define as high-quality jobs,” Harter told USA TODAY. “Very few people who apply are getting the chance.”
These challenging market conditions show little sign of easing. Social media is filled with images of frustrated job seekers submitting hundreds of applications and never hearing back, and overqualified candidates desperately tossing their resumes for entry-level positions.
“The job market is really tough,” one job seeker commented on LinkedIn. “I applied for a lot of jobs and got nothing. I don’t remember ever finding a job this hard.”
“What makes this moment stand out is not just the scale of the grievances, but the circumstances surrounding them,” Gallup said. “Many workers who want to retire are unable to do so because of constraints such as economic conditions, a cooling labor market, and the difficulty of finding anything comparable to what they have.”
desperately looking for a new job
Anxious job seekers are not discouraged. “Intention to leave” remains at the highest level since Gallup began its survey in 2015.
According to Gallup, more than half of workers are actively looking for a new job and 40% are looking for better opportunities. Less than half of U.S. employees say they never watch it.
However, with limited opportunities, almost half of current job seekers say it was a negative experience. Just over a quarter of respondents said they had a positive experience during their job search.
More than half of job seekers who applied for at least one job in the past 30 days report that they never got an interview.
Does DEI discriminate against white men? The answer may surprise you.
Which workers are the most pessimistic?
Federal employees in particular are experiencing a reversal of fortune.
According to Gallup, federal employees are significantly more likely to succeed in 2022 than the average U.S. worker, 4 percentage points higher than the average state and local government employee and 6 percentage points higher than the average U.S. worker.
By 2025, the prosperity rate for federal employees has fallen 12 percentage points to an average of 48%, far outpacing the sharp decline in state and local government jobs and the average for all employees.
“Starting in 2022, all major segments of the U.S. workforce have experienced worsening life prospects, but federal employees stand out for the depth and speed of that decline,” Gallup said.
Employment anxiety among university graduate workers
For the first time in the past three years, college-educated workers are the least optimistic about the job market, likely reflecting slower hiring in white-collar fields and layoffs in professional jobs, according to Gallup.
This rise in pessimism is a new phenomenon. Until 2024, workers with an undergraduate degree or higher were slightly more optimistic about the job market, according to Gallup. Only 19% of workers with a college degree say now is a good time to find a good job, far less than the 35% of workers without a college degree.
Today’s younger workers are also more pessimistic about the job market than older workers.
Do you want happy workers? show them the money
According to a Gallup survey, pay or benefits are the top reason for job hunting, with 69% of workers looking for a better job and 53% of dissatisfied workers responding.
More opportunities for growth and advancement were the second most cited reason, but more than a quarter of respondents blamed leadership and management for their wandering eyes.
Overall wage growth has slowed for years, a knock-on effect of a tight job market.
The average employer plans to raise wages by 3.5% in 2026, barely keeping up with inflation, according to an October survey from human resources firm Mercer.
Over the years, job hoppers have been able to earn higher salaries in new roles. But that strategy has been losing momentum for some time. And if the number of job openings decreases, the chances of changing jobs will also decrease.
According to ZipRecruiter, only 56% of workers negotiated a pay increase in their new role, down from 70% in 2023. Additionally, a quarter of those who recently started a new job received a pay cut, and a further 16% received the same salary. For many who accepted lower wages, unemployment drove the decision.
Gold and silver can help diversify your portfolio and provide an alternative measure of value, but buying precious metals is more complex than buying stocks or mutual funds. Investors typically have to trade through a dealer, but fraud is still prevalent in the industry, so it’s important to choose a reputable company.
Goldco and Birch Gold Group are two well-known names in the precious metals industry. Both offer support for gold IRAs, IRA rollovers, and direct purchases of physical metals. Although the core services of both companies overlap, differences in pricing, minimum investment requirements, product selection, and customer experience may make one better suited to your needs than the other.
This comparison details the differences in Goldco and Birch Gold Group’s services, costs, and overall suitability for different types of investors.
Overview of Goldco vs. Birch Gold Group
Both Goldco and Birch Gold Group operate on a concierge-style model, with a focus on education and intimate customer support. Each specializes in self-directed gold IRAs and works with custodians and IRS-certified custodians to address storage, transportation, and compliance requirements.
In addition to retirement accounts, both companies support the direct purchase of physical bullion for home delivery or third-party storage. While Goldco focuses primarily on gold and silver, Birch Gold Group offers a wide selection that also includes platinum and palladium.
Both companies offer extensive educational kits, market news and dedicated experts to explain the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of investing in precious metals. Neither offers online sales, so all transactions are completed through a representative.
Goldco vs. Birch Gold Group Summary:
Features
gold co
birch gold group
Establishment
2006
2003
Headquarters
Calabasas, California
Des Moines, Iowa
Products offered
gold and silver
gold, silver, platinum, platinum
Gold IRA Service
yes
yes
buyback program
yes
yes
BBB ratings are accurate as of March 2026.
Overview of Goldco
Goldco Goldco was founded in 2006 by Trevor Gerszt and is headquartered in Calabasas, California. Today, Goldco is an established provider for middle-to-high net worth investors looking for a superior approach to buying gold and silver. The company specializes in physical precious metal rollovers for 401(k)s and IRAs, as well as direct bullion sales.
Goldco has earned multiple industry recognitions, including Stevie Awards at the American Business Awards in 2022 and 2025, and is listed on the Inc. 5000 list of Fastest Growing Companies. The company has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and maintains a rating of approximately 4.4 stars on Trustpilot.
Ready to learn more? Goldco Review: Services, Pricing, and What You Need to Know
Overview of Birch Gold Group
Birch Gold Group was founded in 2003 in Burbank, California and is currently headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa. Like Goldco, the company operates on a concierge model, but positions itself as a more accessible and education-focused provider with an emphasis on transparency and a structured onboarding process.
In addition to gold and silver, Birch Gold Group also offers platinum and palladium, offering investors a wide range of diversification options. The company supports both gold IRA rollovers and direct purchases of precious metals.
Birch Gold Group has built a strong reputation over more than 20 years in business. It holds an A+ BBB rating and maintains a rating of approximately 4.3 stars on Trustpilot.
Goldco vs. Birch Gold Group: Fees and Pricing Transparency
Fully transparent pricing is relatively rare in the precious metals industry. Dealer markups may vary depending on trade size, product type, and market conditions. Neither GoldCo nor Birch Gold Group discloses markups, but Birch Gold Group is more transparent about IRA-related fees.
According to our research, both companies have similar flat fee structures for Gold IRAs. This pricing model benefits investors with larger account balances, as fees do not increase as the value of the portfolio increases.
In most cases, you will need to speak directly with a representative to get a complete quote. Keep in mind that the total cost of investing in precious metals exceeds the spot price. This typically includes dealer insurance premiums, account setup fees, annual maintenance, storage fees, and other potential charges.
Our research has determined the following typical fee structure:
commission
gold co
birch gold group
setting
One-time fee of $50
One-time fee of $50, wire transfer fee of $30
annual maintenance
$125
$125
Yearly storage
$100 (separation), $150 (no separation)
$110
Minimum investment amount
$25,000 (Gold IRA). Direct purchase inquiries
$10,000 (IRA or direct purchase)
Prices and fees are subject to change and may vary depending on trade size, account type, and storage arrangements. Investors typically need to contact the company directly for a complete quote. Some fees may be charged by the third-party custodian or custodian that manages your precious metals IRA.
Goldco vs. Birch Gold Group: reputation and customer reviews
Overall, both companies are well-reviewed and widely considered reliable providers in the Gold IRA space. Each has earned an A+ rating from the BBB, reflecting strong business practices and customer service standards.
Both companies are rated highly by customers on Trustpilot. Goldco has a rating of approximately 4.4 out of 5, while Birch Gold Group has a slightly lower rating at approximately 4.3 out of 5.
Goldco may have a slight edge for investors who prioritize slightly higher customer satisfaction scores, but Birch Gold Group’s long-standing presence and consistent reviews may appeal to investors who value stability and track record.
Goldco vs. Birch Gold Group: Which is right for you?
Both Goldco and Birch Gold Group offer full-service support for purchasing physical metals and setting up a gold IRA. Which is more appropriate depends on your investment size, product preferences, and how much guidance you need during the process.
Goldco may be suitable for investors with larger retirement accounts People looking for a streamlined rollover experience. Its high minimum investment amount and focus on gold and silver IRAs may appeal to those who prioritize efficiency and a more professional approach.
Birch Gold Group may appeal to investors seeking a lower entry point Metal options also expand. With a $10,000 minimum and access to platinum and palladium, it may be a good option for those starting with a small allocation or looking to diversify beyond gold and silver.
Points to note when choosing a precious metals purchasing company
Investing in precious metals is more complex than traditional assets, so choosing the right dealer is especially important. For first-time investors, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming, but by focusing on a few key factors, you can confidently evaluate providers you can trust.
When comparing dealers, consider the following:
Pricing transparency: Online pricing is not common, but reputable dealers should clearly explain markups and fees when requesting a quote. Ask about the bid/ask spread, or the difference between the amount you pay and the amount the dealer will offer if you sell back.
Storage method: Understand how metals are stored. Most Gold IRA providers use IRS-approved third-party custodians for security and compliance. Some companies may not offer storage for direct purchases, so clarify your options upfront.
Customer support: Read reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and BBB to understand the customer experience. If possible, ask friends and colleagues about their experiences as well.
Minimum investment requirements: Lowest prices can vary widely from dealer to dealer. Make sure the required investment aligns with your budget and overall strategy.
Buyback policy: A strong buyback program makes it easy to liquidate your holdings later. Look for a dealer that clearly explains the repurchase process and terms.
conclusion
Goldco and Birch Gold Group are two well-established precious metals dealers that offer concierge-style service, gold IRA and direct purchase support, respectively, and are well-received by their customers.
Goldco may be more suited to investors with large portfolios who want a more streamlined white-glove rollover experience, while Birch Gold Group may appeal to investors starting with a lower-value investment or looking for a broader range of metals.
As with any financial decision, it’s worth comparing multiple providers, including competitors such as Priority Gold and Thor Metals, to find the one that best suits your investment goals. Or use the map tool below to find your area.
FAQ: Goldco vs Birch Gold Group
Is Goldco better than Birch Gold Group?
Neither company is inherently better than the other. While Goldco may appeal to investors with larger rollover amounts, Birch Gold Group is often preferred for its lower minimum investment amount and education-focused approach. The right choice depends on your priorities.
Do Goldco or Birch Gold Group have lower fees?
Both companies have similar fee structures for Gold IRAs. The main variable is the dealer’s markup, which is not made public and typically requires you to contact each company to get a quote.
Can I buy physical gold from Goldco or Birch Gold Group?
Yes, both companies offer direct purchasing of physical metals. You can choose courier delivery or arrange storage through a third party provider.
How do precious metal dealers make money?
Dealers make money primarily through spreads, the difference between the price they pay for the metal and the price they charge their customers.
Car Recalls: Why They Happen and What Buyers Should Know
Why do car recalls occur? Here’s what you need to know if your car has an open recall.
According to a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Honda will recall more than 19,000 motorcycles.
Honda’s motorcycle recall is due to a defective screw in the bike’s handlebars, which the notice says can become loose, detach from the bike, and become wedged between the frame and stem, “interfering with steering and increasing the risk of collision and injury.”
“Owners should contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s phone number for this recall is KUO,” the recall states.
Owners of affected vehicles will receive notification letters on May 8, according to the notice. For bikes that have been impacted, dealers will apply lock screws and thread locks free of charge.
Here’s what you need to know about the recall.
more: Ford has recalled more than 840,000 vehicles. See affected models.
How to search for car recalls
Vehicle owners can search NHTSA’s database for recalls based on their vehicle identification number (VIN).
USA TODAY’s recall database also includes information on recalls for automobiles, food, medicine, and other products.
What Honda motorcycles are affected by the recall?
According to the notification, a total of 19,406 Honda motorcycles are subject to the recall.
2023-2025 Honda CL500
2023-2025 Honda CMX300
2023-2025 Honda CMX500
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_.
Bill Cosby released: Pennsylvania court explains decision to overturn conviction
Bill Cosby was released after spending more than two years in prison after the Pennsylvania Supreme Court overturned his 2018 sexual assault conviction.
“Let’s enjoy this!”, USA TODAY
A Los Angeles County jury has sided with Bill Cosby’s accusers in a civil suit over a 1972 sexual assault charge.
Donna Motsisinger, one of dozens of people who say they were victims of the 88-year-old “Cosby Show” star, was ordered to pay $19.25 million in damages on March 23, more than 50 years after Cosby allegedly drugged and raped her. Hours later, a jury ruled that Cosby must pay Motosinger $40 million in punitive damages, totaling $59.25 million.
According to Rolling Stone, the jury found that Cosby acted with “malice, oppression, or fraud.”
The $19.25 million includes $17.5 million in past non-economic damages and $1.75 million in future non-economic damages, Motsinger’s legal team confirmed to USA TODAY.
USA TODAY has reached out to Cosby’s attorney for comment.
According to the New York Times, Cosby’s lawyer Jennifer Bonjean vowed to appeal, saying, “We are obviously disappointed in this decision, but we believe we have a strong appeal and we will pursue it.”
Motsinger said in a September 2023 civil suit that Cosby drugged and raped her after inviting her to his comedy show in the Bay Area. At the time, she was working as a server at a restaurant in Sausalito, California.
Mr. Cosby did not testify during the two-week trial.
Cosby, the first Hollywood figure to be convicted in the wake of the #MeToo movement, denies all charges related to sex crimes. After serving nearly three years in a state prison outside Philadelphia for allegedly drugging and sexually abusing a Temple University employee in 2004, he was released in 2021 after his conviction was overturned by the state Supreme Court.
In 2022, a Los Angeles jury awarded Judy Hughes $500,000 in damages after she alleged that Cosby sexually abused her at the Playboy Mansion in 1975 when she was 16 years old.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline We offer free and confidential support in English and Spanish 24/7 via chat and 800-656-4673..
This may be one silver lining from the recent turmoil.
Matt Frankel, CFP |The Motley Fool
Social Security Trust Fund is projected to be depleted within 10 years
The main trust fund used to pay Social Security benefits is projected to be depleted by 2033 unless lawmakers make changes to the system.
straight arrow news
While admittedly a little early, the most notable prediction is that retirees will receive a similar cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) from Social Security in 2027. The latest forecast is for next year’s COLA to be 2.8%, which is the same as what retirees will receive in 2026, according to the Alliance on Seniors.
However, there may be certain cost increases that result in a higher-than-expected COLA. We explain what it is, how it could affect your COLA in 2027, and why it will take some time to know for sure.
COLA may rise due to rising energy prices
Energy prices are a key component of the inflation measure used to calculate Social Security COLA, CPI-W. And the published estimates do not reflect recent trends in the energy sector.
Specifically, the Iran conflict and the uncertainty surrounding it have caused oil prices to rise significantly. Oil prices have increased a staggering 65% so far this year, and 35% in the first 12 days of March alone.
Energy is generally one of the most volatile components of inflation data, and until recently was a catalyst in the other direction. For example, CPI data for February showed gas prices were down year-over-year, and that was before the recent spike.
How much difference would it make?
The potential impact of energy surges is somewhat difficult to quantify accurately. What we do know is that energy makes up 6.2% of the CPI-W formula, roughly split between transportation fuels (such as gasoline) and household energy. This may seem like a relatively small weight, but even if energy costs rise by, say, 40%, it can have a significant impact on the overall inflation calculation.
Moreover, rising energy prices do not necessarily affect only energy category. Rising fuel costs could push up prices for food and manufacturing, which could face higher transportation costs (and be passed on to consumers).
There’s a lot we don’t know yet
One important point is that the 2027 Social Security COLA is based on: 3rd quarter inflation data. That means the Social Security Administration will compare July, August, and September inflation numbers to last year’s inflation numbers.
There is no way of knowing whether the rise in crude oil prices will continue until then. If the conflict is largely over by then, prices could plummet. If the Strait of Hormuz is closed for an extended period of time, prices could rise further from here.
In short, if the rise in oil prices continues into the summer, it could have a significant impact on Social Security COLA in 2027. But a lot can happen in the coming months, so it’s too early to know exactly what will happen.
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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