Tornado could destroy roofs of buildings in southern Michigan town
On March 6, 2026, video captured the moment the roof of a store and warehouse in Three Rivers, Michigan was blown off by high winds and a possible tornado.
Storms and tornadoes in southern Michigan on March 6 left three people dead and more than a dozen injured, according to the Branch County Sheriff’s Office.
Three of the 12 injured people were taken to local hospitals after the storm in the Lake Union area of Branch County, Michigan.
“Our thoughts are with those who lost family, friends, and property in this incident,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
The National Weather Service office in northern Indiana will conduct a storm survey in parts of Michigan’s Cass, St. Joseph, and Branch counties in connection with damage caused by severe thunderstorms that moved from Edwardsburg to Three Rivers and Union City on March 6.
Officials say more severe weather is likely to continue into March 7. Residents should evacuate immediately and continue to monitor reliable weather and news sources for the latest information.
A “large and extremely dangerous tornado” initially struck Three Rivers, Michigan, causing significant damage, according to preliminary reports from NWS offices in northern Indiana.
Tornado hits Three Rivers, Michigan on March 6th
St. Joseph County was under a tornado warning when the storm hit.
The tornado occurred amid severe thunderstorms moving through the area. St. Joseph County storm trackers and emergency management staff reported to the National Weather Service that multiple tornadoes touched down before damaging the southwest side of Three Rivers just before 4 p.m. local time.
Local authorities also reported to the weather service that people were trapped in debris between Niles and Edwardsburg in neighboring Cass County, Michigan, and needed to be rescued. A tornado warning was issued for parts of Cass and St. Joseph counties around 3:14 p.m. local time, and continued at 3:52 p.m.
The storm that spawned the tornadoes that hit Three Rivers continued to show signs of organization and potential strengthening as it moved into central Michigan, within the boundaries of the Grand Rapids National Weather Service region, the weather service reported.
Social media videos posted from St. Joseph and Cass counties showed part of the roof of a Menards store in Three Rivers peeling off, sending debris flying into the air.
The weather service also reported a “large debris ball” on radar over Union City, Michigan. Reports of damage were received along a roughly 90-mile strip between Niles and Union City, but it was not immediately clear whether it was caused by one tornado or multiple tornadoes.
At 5 p.m., the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Office shared a Facebook post asking people to “stay away from the north end of the county” until further notice. “Emergency personnel are currently responding to active situations in the area, and it is important that firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, and other first responders have clear access,” the office said.
The Three Rivers tornado was one of several tornadoes to hit the United States since March 5th.
In Oklahoma, a woman and her daughter were killed when their van was caught in a tornado on March 5th. Bureau of Meteorology meteorologists were still assessing the damage caused by the storm on the afternoon of March 6.
tornado warning
Forecast of danger for storms on the afternoon of March 6th
Tornado warning issued for Three Rivers
This warning was issued just after 3pm on March 6th. The 3:52 p.m. update warned of “particularly hazardous conditions” as a large and extremely dangerous tornado moved northeast over Three Rivers at 40 mph.
Dinah Boyles Pulver, a national correspondent for USA TODAY, writes about violent weather, climate change and other news. Contact dpulver@usatoday.com or @dinahvp on Bluesky or dinahvp.77 on X or Signal.
Whether you’re buying new windows for your home, renovating it, or buying a new build, understanding standard window sizes will help you make the most informed decision. Although many homes use common window dimensions, not all windows fit into these “standard” sizes.
Window type, size, and age of your home all play important roles when calculating dimensions. As you research what size you’re likely to find in your home, here’s what you need to know about standard window sizes, how to measure windows, and how much it costs to install them.
What are standard window sizes?
Most types of windows have standard sizes, so they can be mass produced and easily installed in any home. Manufacturers prefer windows in common size ranges because they can produce windows in large quantities, streamline production, and create products for both builders and homeowners (for later replacement).
Standard window sizes vary depending on the type of windows in your home. Below we break down each type of window and its standard dimensions.
Common standard window sizes by type
Single-hung and double-hung windows
standard width:24, 28, 32, 40, 44, 48 inches
standard height:36, 44, 48, 52, 54, 60, 62, or 72 inches
Single-hung windows have a fixed upper sash and a lower sash that moves to let in fresh air. In contrast, double-hung windows have both the top and bottom sashes open. These rectangular windows are a convenient choice for homeowners who want a functional, easy-to-maintain window that provides adequate ventilation.
A casement window is a narrow window that, like a door, has hinges on the side and is opened by turning a crank from the side. These windows open very wide and are selected functionally for ventilation. Casement windows are locked with a latch hook on the inside, making it difficult for people to break in from the outside and providing excellent security.
double sliding window
Standard width: 36, 48, 60, 72, or 84 inches
Standard height: 24, 36, 48, or 60 inches
Sliding windows feature a movable window sash that slides horizontally and are ideal for areas where you can’t easily access the window and push it up, such as over a kitchen sink. These durable windows have two or three panels and offer unobstructed views and natural light.
picture window
standard width:34, 36, 48, 60, 72 inches
standard height:36, 48, 60 inches
Picture windows “frame” the outdoor view. These windows are rail-free and fixed, giving you a clear, unobstructed view of the outside world, making them ideal for living rooms and other rooms that need more natural light.
One of the small window types on the market is an awning window (also known as a hopper window). It has a rectangular shape with a hinged top that opens like a sunshade. If you live in an area where it rains or snows frequently, awning windows can let fresh air in during inclement weather without forcing it into your home.
How to measure window size
Windows are measured in height and width. Manufacturers typically list window sizes as four-digit notations, such as 3030. This means the window is 3’0″ wide by 3’0″ high.
You can have your windows professionally measured, or you can measure them yourself at home using a tape measure. Standard window height is measured as width x height, so start with the width. As with any home measurement, you should run this process twice (ideally three times) to ensure you get the correct numbers.
How to check if a window is square
Before you can measure your window, you’ll first need to determine if it’s square (or has 90 degree corners). Measure with the tape measure to the top right corner of the window, then to the bottom right corner and write down the numbers. Repeat this process for the opposite corner and compare the numbers. Windows are square if they are within 1/4 inch of each other.
How to measure window width
You will need to measure the width of your window in three different places: at the top, in the middle, and at the bottom. Place the starting point of the tape measure inside the left window frame (this is the white part on the side of the window pane). Starting at the top, extend the measuring tape to the edge of the right frame. Record that number. Repeat measurements to the center of the window, then to the bottom.
There should be three numbers. The smallest number is the width.
How to measure window height
You will need to measure the height of your window in three places: left, right, and center. Start your tape measure at the bottom of the window (but not the trim or any part of it that sticks out from the base of the wall the window sits on). Hold it straight up to the top of the window and write down the measurements. Repeat the same steps for the center and right side of the window.
The smallest of these three measurements will be the window height.
How to roughly measure the window opening
Measure again the same way you measured the width and height, but measure the opening where the contractor will install the window. Typically, the rough dimensions of the opening are 1/2 inch larger than the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the window.
Recommended rough opening sizes vary by window type, so have a professional double-check your measurements. Even the slightest mistake can result in poorly installed windows that leak air and increase your utility bills.
Finally, don’t rely on old plans when determining window dimensions. Many areas require building permits to replace or widen windows, or to add new windows where none existed before. However, if work was previously carried out without permission, it will not be noted on the old plans of the house.
Do standard window sizes vary by room?
Although window sizes do not necessarily vary from room to room, you may find that certain types of windows are more common in certain spaces based on the window’s function and appearance. For example, your bedroom should have large windows that allow you to escape in case of a fire or emergency. The required size varies by location, but is usually at least 20 inches wide by 24 inches high.
In most regions, no specific windows are required in the kitchen. Nevertheless, it is practical to have windows in this area for ventilation and natural light, so casement windows, double-hung windows, garden windows and sliding windows are common. Similarly, bathrooms typically don’t require specific windows per code, but ventilation is important. Bathroom windows are often at least 2 feet wide and 3 feet high. Popular choices include casement windows, sliding windows, casement windows, and awning windows.
As a rule of thumb, these standard window sizes also depend on the age of your home.
When standard window sizes don’t apply
Some homes and windows may require custom sizing due to unique window shapes, features, age, etc. Older or historic homes often have window shapes and sizes that were popular at the time but are no longer standard. This is a distinctive part of your home that deserves to be respected with a custom replacement to maintain the home’s appearance and energy efficiency.
“A common misconception is that homes have ‘standard’ window sizes that can be easily replaced,” says Yuri Pearl, owner of Nealon Insulation. “However, we find that many older homes have custom or slightly irregular openings, so forcing a standard size can lead to air leaks and trim issues. Accurate measurements and a good fit are more important than finding a ‘standard’ size.” ”
Special windows, such as bay windows or bow windows, or windows with unusual shapes, such as arched windows or geometric windows, are visually interesting but are not standard sizes. Instead, these windows are customized to fit the outside of your home. Another consideration is structural changes during home renovations.
How window size affects cost and installation
Window size affects cost and installation in a number of ways. First, larger windows require more materials and are more expensive.
Custom windows have a big impact on the cost of a renovation project because you’ll pay a premium to have them manufactured to your home’s specifications. You should also consider the time it takes for the manufacturer to create your custom windows.
When it comes to installation, custom windows or larger windows will cost more. Some of these windows require creating and framing new rough openings, which is extra work for the contractor. Other locations, such as bay and bow windows, require additional home reconstruction during the process, increasing the labor hours and skills required for the project.
conclusion
When looking for replacement windows, standard window sizes are a good starting point. However, accurate measurements and recommendations from a professional window installer are important to avoid ordering the wrong window size or experiencing installation issues.
Take the time to carefully measure your windows, shop around, and then check the size with a reputable window installer or contractor.
FAQ
Is there really a standard window size?
No, there is actually no standard window size, but there is a range of standard window sizes that are built into many homes. You can measure the size of your windows at home, but if you are considering replacing your windows, it is safer to have a professional measure and confirm the size of your windows.
Is the replacement window smaller than the original opening?
Replacement windows are usually slightly smaller than the original opening to ensure a secure fit. Full frame replacement windows are an option and can improve the energy efficiency and appearance of your home. However, full frame replacements are expensive.
Does your older home have non-standard window sizes?
Older homes often feature non-standard window sizes because they are unpopular in today’s market and feature non-standard window sizes and shapes. Another consideration is that before modern technology, people relied on windows for natural light and airflow, so older homes usually have large windows.
If you’re looking for a flooring contractor, you’ve probably considered The Home Depot and Lowe’s, two major retailers that offer flooring installation.
One of the biggest decisions you will make when replacing the flooring in your home is whether to hire a reputable contractor. Finding the right company for the job can mean the difference between long-lasting floors that bring you joy and ongoing problems and replacements.
This guide details the differences in flooring options, pricing, and customer service available at The Home Depot and Lowe’s, so you can decide which one is best for your project.
Lowe’s vs. The Home Depot Overview
Lowe’s and Home Depot are the nation’s largest home improvement retailers, and both offer flooring installation through local subcontractor flooring companies.
These companies offer similar flooring options in that they house all the types of flooring you can think of from the biggest brands. There is a nearly identical process for measuring and installing flooring, and both offer project management.
According to customer reviews, customer service and communication are issues for both providers. However, the problem is location dependent and has more to do with third party installers than anything else. Home Depot seems to have better overall ratings, but with both companies, your experience will vary by branch and subcontractor.
Buy flooring from Home Depot
Lowe’s vs. The Home Depot: Flooring Types and Costs
Lowe’s and Home Depot are both great choices if you’re looking for:
carpeted
Vinyl flooring (LVP/LVT)
laminate
Hardwood/artificial wood
tile
For carpet, vinyl flooring, and laminate flooring, you can often save money by using private or proprietary brands such as STAINMASTER from Lowe’s or LifeProof from Home Depot.
Lowe’s is a major retailer of the Style Selections brand, and The Home Depot owns the Home Decorator’s Collection brand, so if you’re looking for wood or engineered wood flooring, you can often save money with them.
Keep in mind that initial costs aren’t the only thing to consider.
“One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is choosing price over quality,” said Augustine Wadian, CEO of Premier Home Pros, an Ohio-based home improvement company. “Cheap flooring may look the same at first, but thinner boards and low-wear layers can quickly wear out and lead to peeling, fading, and damage, which can cost more in the long run.”
We have taken prices from both companies’ websites for easy comparison, but please note that these are just estimates. Home Depot prices are taken from a price guide, while Lowe’s prices are taken from the company’s flooring cost estimates and use 100 square feet of living space as an example. There are many other factors besides materials that can affect the total.
Types of flooring
Lowe’s Cost (per square foot)
home depot cost (per square foot)
carpet
$3.88–$6.62
$2 to $4.50
LVP or LVT
$2.29–$4.29
$2 – $6
laminate
$1.44–$3.99
$3.80 – $4.80
Hardwood/artificial wood
$2.99–$6.89
$6-$7
tile
$0.99–$3.49
$9 – $10
carpet
Carpet is one of the most affordable flooring materials and is usually ideal for bedrooms and low-traffic living areas where leaks and spills are not a big concern.
Carpet prices range from $3.88 to $6.62 per square foot at Lowe’s and $2 to $4.50 per square foot at The Home Depot.
vinyl flooring
Vinyl flooring is prized for its versatility, as it not only withstands foot traffic in living areas, but also performs well in areas where water and moisture are an issue, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
Vinyl flooring is estimated to cost between $2.29 and $4.29 per square foot at Lowe’s and between $2 and $6 per square foot at Home Depot.
“Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) always adds strong value to homes because it combines high-end aesthetics with low maintenance and durability,” Wadian added.
laminate flooring
Most homeowners agree that laminate flooring doesn’t look as good as other options, but it’s affordable and water-resistant. As a result, they more commonly occur in low-traffic areas, such as utility rooms and laundry rooms.
Laminate flooring costs between $1.44 and $3.99 per square foot at Lowe’s and between $3.80 and $4.80 per square foot at Home Depot.
Hardwood and engineered wood
Hardwood or engineered wood floors create a natural, beautiful, and traditional look. This type of floor doesn’t like being exposed to moisture or water, making it ideal for main living areas and bedrooms.
Average prices for these floors range from $2.99 to $6.89 per square foot at Lowe’s and $6 to $7 per square foot at The Home Depot.
“Hardwoods and high-quality engineered woods add value because they are classic, familiar, and appealing to almost everyone,” says Lori Evans, co-owner of Florida-based architectural and interior design contractor Evans Construction and Design. “They’ve been around forever for a reason.”
tile
Tiles are the most common flooring option for kitchens and bathrooms because they are highly resistant to water and moisture. Tile prices range from $0.99 to $3.49 per square foot at Lowe’s and $9 to $10 per square foot at Home Depot.
Please note that large price differences may be due to room preparation and ground preparation. It’s unclear if Lowe’s includes this in their quote.
Lowe’s vs. The Home Depot: Installation
Whether you choose Lowe’s or The Home Depot to install your flooring, the installation process is pretty much the same, with a few minor differences.
How the installation works
Here’s a quick breakdown of the installation process with both providers.
Measurements: To determine how much flooring you need, you’ll first need to have your space professionally measured. Lowe’s uses in-house personnel to take measurements, while The Home Depot outsources to a local flooring specialist. Lowe’s doesn’t charge a fee for this process, but The Home Depot charges a non-refundable $35 fee.
Formal quote: You will then receive a detailed estimate for your project, including material and labor costs.
install: Once you approve the estimate, a Lowe’s or The Home Depot representative will act as an intermediary between you and the local flooring company assigned to your project to schedule the installation.
How much does installation cost?
Installation costs vary widely depending on a variety of factors, the most important being the type of flooring being installed. Lowe’s estimates prices can range between $0.99 and $6.89 per square foot, and The Home Depot estimates prices between $2 and $10 per square foot. These numbers include material costs and labor.
Cost of new flooring: How much a homeowner can expect to pay
Who installs the flooring
Lowe’s and The Home Depot both subcontract the actual installation work to local flooring companies, so neither provider has an in-house team of contractors.
Unfortunately, the quality of installation and the quality of customer service you receive throughout the process is highly dependent on the specific company handling your flooring project.
Lowe’s vs. The Home Depot: Availability
Both Lowe’s and The Home Depot have a national presence, with stores in all 50 states and Washington, DC. The local contractors used to install your flooring will vary depending on your location.
Lowe’s vs. The Home Depot: Review
The table below provides a quick breakdown of available third-party reviews for Lowe’s and The Home Depot.
Keep in mind that Better Business Bureau (BBB) and TrustPilot customer review scores are for the entire retail store and are not specific to flooring installation.
Third party review site
lowe’s
of home depot
BBB rating
A+
A+
BBB customer rating
1.1 stars
1.14
TrustPilot evaluation
1.4 stars
1.7 stars
Home Depot’s website features reviews about its flooring installation, many of which are positive about the professionalism of the workers assigned to the project and the affordability of the service. I also read some reviews on Reddit, but the reviews are a little more mixed. Some customers complain about poor installation quality. But again, it depends on the location.
Lowe’s website doesn’t have any reviews specifically about the flooring, but I was able to find some customer reviews and testimonials on Reddit. Reviews are mixed. Some customers appreciate the affordable price and believe it’s a good value, while others say the quality of the installation and materials is lacking.
Lowe’s vs. The Home Depot: Which is Right for You?
Both Lowe’s and The Home Depot have national locations and install all common flooring types and outsource the installation work to local flooring companies. Your experience depends more on the installer assigned to your project than the retailer you choose.
However, after reading reviews online from past customers and subcontractors who work with the company, The Home Depot seems a little more positive, so we recommend The Home Depot. It’s still possible to run into quality or customer service issues, but the risk seems to be higher at Lowe’s.
How does USA TODAY rate flooring companies?
We evaluate flooring companies based on the following criteria:
Flooring options also available
Pricing and cost transparency
Will you outsource your workforce or complete the installation in-house?
Measuring and installation process for flooring materials
Online ratings from BBB, TrustPilot and third party sites
Customer sentiment derived from reviews
We read as many reviews as possible about each flooring company we evaluate to understand the best- and worst-case scenarios based on the experience you might have and past performance.
How does USA TODAY rank flooring contractors: Flooring construction company methodology
FAQ
Which has better flooring prices: The Home Depot or Lowe’s?
Lowe’s has lower prices for overall flooring installation services, ranging from $0.99 to $6.89 per square foot, while The Home Depot ranges from $2 to $10 per square foot.
Carpet is cheaper at Home Depot. Again, these numbers are just estimates from retailers, and your actual costs may vary even more depending on the type of flooring you choose, the condition of your subfloor, the complexity of your room, and more.
Which store is better for flooring: Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Costco?
We recommend The Home Depot, especially if you want to save money on store-only products like Lifeproof flooring. However, it’s important to note that all three companies subcontract the installation work to local flooring companies, so it may differ from what you read in online reviews.
The Home Depot and Lowe’s have their own products available, but Costco doesn’t have the products or the labor in-house.
Do the prices at The Home Depot and Lowe’s match?
Both Home Depot and Lowe’s offer price matching on materials, but not on flooring installation work or other professional services. We may be able to adjust the price of the flooring required for your project, but it does not include labor costs. Price match is not available for products that are exclusive to certain stores, such as LifeProof Flooring or STAINMASTER Flooring.
Daryl Hannah doesn’t care how much audiences love “Love Story.” That’s “not true,” the former JFK Jr. lover writes in a new essay.
‘Love Story’ star Sarah Pidgeon looks soft glamorous in pink dress at Actor’s Awards ceremony
Sarah Pidgeon wears a dusty pink Balenciaga dress on the Actor’s Awards red carpet to introduce her role as Carolyn Bessette Kennedy in Love Story.
Video Team – USA TODAY Entertainment
Daryl Hannah doesn’t care how much audiences love “Love Story.”
In a new op-ed published by The New York Times on Friday, March 6, Hanna slammed the show for its exaggerated depiction of the romance and death of John F. Kennedy Jr. and his wife, Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. The FX show, created by controversial producer Ryan Murphy, captivated viewers, but some members of the Kennedy family were outraged, claiming it was not only false, but grossly glorified a personal tragedy.
On Friday, JFK Jr.’s former girlfriend Hannah was among the critics herself, slamming her eponymous character on the show and deriding its choices as “exploiting tragedy.”
Hannah, 65, wrote of her character on the show: “The choice to portray her as frustrated, narcissistic, whining and inappropriate was no accident.” “Telling a story requires tension, and often obstacles. But real, living people are not narrative devices.”
Was Carolyn Bessette late for her? wedding? The truth about her dress
Hannah went on to accuse the show of being misogynistic, claiming that it pits women against each other to create dramatic tension, and explicitly disavowing many of the actions her character did on screen.
“The actions and actions attributed to me are false. I have never used cocaine or hosted a cocaine-fueled party in my life. I have never forced anyone to marry me. I have never desecrated a family heirloom or violated anyone’s personal monument. “I’ve never even planted a story in the press. I’ve never compared Jacqueline Onassis’ death to that of a dog. Even having to defend myself against a TV show is terrifying to me.” “These are not creative embellishments of personality. They are claims about actions, and they are false.”
Jack Schlossberg sings “Love Story” As a “grotesque” program about his uncle JFK Jr.
The actress and now environmental activist said her choice to speak out now has less to do with ego and more to do with a desire to continue doing the work she loves without facing a tarnished reputation. Despite decades of obsessive interest in the Kennedy family, Hanna, who dated JFK Jr. for several years, said much of what is in popular media is false.
“The Kennedy family is also known for being private, and I have always respected their right to privacy,” she wrote. “Please know that most (if not all) people who claim to have some detailed knowledge of our private lives are self-serving sensationalists peddling gossip, innuendo, and speculation.”
“Love Story” reignited interest in Kennedy and Bessette’s tabloid-hunted relationship and their untimely deaths in a 1999 plane crash. In a conversation with USA TODAY at the show’s premiere, series creator Connor Hines explained his decision not to consult the family.
“From a writing standpoint, I think distance is more effective… because I think distance allows you to be more objective when you can act on extensive research. When you talk to someone, you often feel obligated to talk to everyone and end up with conflicting stories,” he said. “I also think there’s a sense of responsibility to convey what each person has to say. And I think the story can get very confusing because everyone remembers things differently.”
Red Lobster’s CEO shares how he saved the chain from bankruptcy
Red Lobster’s 36-year-old CEO highlighted three moves that sparked the seafood chain’s resurgence on the Breakfast Club podcast in March 2025.
luck
If a business closes, consumers may be able to obtain a gift card refund by contacting the business owner or credit card company.
More than 8,100 stores from Joanne Fabrics to Forever 21 will close across the U.S. in 2025, according to retail industry analysis firm Coresight Research.
What if I still have unused gift cards from these companies?
Warehouse chain Costco recently announced a recall of Synergy Restaurant gift cards sold between October 27, 2025 and January 26, 2026. According to FOX Business, the recall stems from gift and points card company Synergy World, which abruptly shut down last month after filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Therefore, the gift card will no longer be redeemable.
What happens if I have a gift card and the store closes?
If your business closes, the Consumer Federation of America provides the following instructions on its website for how to get your money back:
Contact the business: “Try contacting the town hall or city hall where the business is located, or the Secretary of State’s office, to obtain contact information for the business owner so you can request a refund.”
Ask your credit or debit card provider to reverse the charge: “Every credit or debit card company has its own policies, but some allow you to reverse the charge if you (or your friend or relative) purchased a gift card with a credit or debit card. Contact your credit card company as soon as possible to request that the charge be reversed.”
Contact your state or local consumer protection agency. “If you can’t contact anyone at the company to get a refund, contact the government agency that provides consumer protection services in your state. That way, you can alert them to the problem (you’re probably not alone) and get your money back.”
Submit proof of claim: “If a business files for bankruptcy, they can file a certificate of claim with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court and be added to the list of outstanding creditors. However, keep in mind that filing a certificate of claim does not guarantee that you will receive a refund. A business may be acquired during bankruptcy proceedings, and gift cards may become available again.”
They note that if all else fails, you may also consider taking legal action to get your money back.
What if the store has not yet closed? Can I use a gift card?
probably. According to Debt.Org, it depends on the store and the reason for the closure.
“If a business files for bankruptcy, it can only continue receiving gift cards if it seeks permission from the bankruptcy court and the court grants it,” the website shares. “Thus, businesses that declare bankruptcy may be less likely to receive gift cards than businesses that go out of business for other reasons.”
Please check with the store in advance to see if the gift card is still available.
Samantha Neely is a trend reporter for USA TODAY NETWORK in Florida, covering pop culture, theme parks, breaking news and more. Sign up for our free Florida TODAY newsletter at https://floridatoday.com/newsletters to get all of Florida’s best content straight to your inbox every weekday..
Gasoline prices soar as Strait of Hormuz closes due to Iran war
Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz is raising gasoline prices, threatening oil supplies and raising concerns about the impact on the global economy.
A majority of Americans oppose U.S. military action in Iran and disapprove of the president’s handling of the conflict, according to a new poll.
Support for military action is divided sharply along party lines, with most Republicans in favor and most Democrats opposed.
The poll also revealed differences in opinion based on age, race, and education, with younger Americans most likely to oppose the action.
Majority of Americans say they oppose US military action in Iran and President Donald Trump’s A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll finds people responding to a war that lasted seven days.
According to public opinion polls, 56% of Americans oppose US operations in Iran, while 44% approve. Furthermore, 36% of Americans surveyed said they approve of the president’s handling of Iran. Fifty-five percent of respondents believe Iran is a minor or no threat to the United States.
The joint poll, released March 6, surveyed 1,591 Americans from March 2 to March 4, just days after the United States and Israel began bombing Iran in the early hours of February 28, killing the country’s supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei. The coordinated attacks also killed dozens of Iranian government officials and hit more than 1,250 targets in the country.
President Trump said the strike was aimed at eliminating an “immediate threat” from Iran and preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Congressional Democrats question whether Iran poses an imminent threat and worry the conflict could escalate into a regional war. Meanwhile, the majority of Republican leaders strongly support President Trump and his administration’s military action.
Of those surveyed in the PBS News/NPR/Marist poll, 44% said they view Iran as a major threat. Additionally, 40% see Iran as a minor threat to U.S. national security, and 15% see Iran as no threat at all.
Meanwhile, the majority of Republican leaders strongly support President Trump and his administration’s military action.
The poll is the latest in a series of studies showing that President Trump’s war with Iran is faring poorly in the polls, driving up gas prices and forcing uncertainty into the stock market, which the administration has repeatedly cited as a bright spot in a shaky economy.
More than 1,000 civilians have been killed in the conflict, including an estimated 175 students and staff at a girls’ school in Minab, Iran. According to Reuters and the Associated Press, a preliminary investigation by the U.S. military concluded that a U.S. airstrike was the cause.
Beyond the Iran War: A bad day for Trump, jobs, gas and Epstein.
Opinion poll finds US troops in Iran divided along partisan lines
As Operation Epic Fury enters its second week, opinion polls show that the US presence is divided sharply along partisan lines.
An overwhelming majority of Republicans approve of both President Trump’s approach (79%) and the attack overall (84%), similar to the nearly unanimous response among Republican leaders in Congress. This week, Republican majorities in both chambers of Congress (with some Democratic support) refused to pass a war powers resolution that would withdraw U.S. troops from the Middle East.
Meanwhile, 86% of Democrats surveyed oppose both President Trump’s approach and aggression and war. Among independent voters, 61% disapprove of President Trump’s handling of the current situation and oppose military action.
An uncertain future?: President Trump’s Iran war is doing badly in polls, but will it hurt the Republican Party in 2026?
Opposition to US actions in Iran varies by group
The PBS News/NPR/Marist poll shows that in addition to political affiliation, other demographic factors, including respondents’ age, race, and education, influence opinions about U.S. military action in Iran.
Young people aged 18 to 29 were the most likely to oppose military action (64%).
Young people surveyed, who are also registered voters, have the least support for President Trump on his handling of Iran. This includes 25% of respondents aged 18-29, 35% of respondents aged 30-44, and 41% of respondents aged 45 and older.
Why is the US at war with Iran?: USA TODAY staff directly answers viewers’ most pointed questions about the conflict
The poll found that whites without a college degree were slightly more in favor of military action (53% in favor, 46% opposed). Whites with a college degree were more likely to oppose military action (61%), while whites with a college degree supported military action (38%).
Polls show that men are more likely than women to support U.S. military action. According to the opinion poll, men were almost evenly divided in their opinions (48% in favor, 52% opposed), but more women were opposed (41% in favor, 59% opposed).
The poll also found that blacks (68%) and Latinos (60%) are more likely than whites (52%) to oppose military action.
The joint poll was conducted by phone, text message, and online among 1,591 U.S. adults. The margin of error is 2.8 percentage points.
Isiah Thomas calls Harris and President Clinton at Jackson’s funeral
Isiah Thomas referred to Kamala Harris and Hillary Clinton as presidents during his remarks at Jesse Jackson’s funeral in Chicago.
On Friday, March 6, thousands of mourners paid their respects to the Rev. Jesse Jackson, a civil rights icon who passed away last month at the age of 84.
Among those who attended the public homecoming celebration Friday at Chicago’s House of Hope was Chicago native and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas, who spoke at the ceremony.
In his speech, Thomas acknowledged that “five presidents” were in attendance.
“I also want to pay tribute to the five presidents sitting here today: President (Kamala) Harris, President (Hillary) Clinton, President Bill Clinton, First Lady Jill Biden, President Biden, and President Barack Obama on Chicago’s South Side,” Thomas said to loud applause.
Hillary Clinton and Harris, who were also among the speakers, each lost their presidential elections to current President Donald Trump.
Thomas also praised Jackson as an inspiration throughout his life, adding that fellow civil rights leaders Medgar Evers and Martin Luther King Jr. were Jackson’s heroes.
“When society told me I was nothing, when society said I didn’t want to go to school with you, this man walked up to me and my mom…and he did the unthinkable,” Thomas said, fighting back tears. “Mama Jackson, your husband knelt down and looked me in the eye, and he said, ‘Who are you?'”
Finding a flooring contractor you can trust can mean fewer headaches, a smoother installation, and a professional look. Is Home Depot your flooring installer? It depends.
Home Depot’s flooring service is nationwide and has hundreds of flooring options, but because the company outsources to local third-party installers, you’re not guaranteed a good experience.
From the services offered and installation process to pricing and red flags, here’s everything you need to know about Home Depot flooring.
About flooring materials at home centers
Home Depot is primarily a home improvement retailer, but it also provides specialized services, such as flooring installation, through local contractors. Home Depot offers carpet, vinyl flooring, laminate flooring, hardwood flooring, tile flooring materials and installation services, as well as garage floor coating and sealing services.
Home Depot was founded in 1978 and has become the national chain that many homeowners rely on for their home improvement projects. Because Home Depot provides materials and not labor, the company that installs your flooring is not affiliated with Home Depot and may be less experienced.
Advantages and disadvantages of flooring materials from home improvement stores
Strong Points
Nationwide support
Wide variety of flooring options
competitive pricing
Potential savings on Home Depot branded products
In-house financing also available
Includes manufacturer and labor warranties
Cons
Unreliable customer service from third-party installers
Warranty coverage varies depending on the product
Customer complaints regarding communication
How is Home Depot flooring installed?
Home Depot will manage the project, supply materials, and provide customer service. Home Depot does not complete flooring installation. Instead, the company subcontracts all flooring installation to third-party contractors in the area.
When you choose Home Depot as your flooring provider, a representative will meet with you in-store or over the phone to discuss your project and schedule an in-person measurement. Once the measurement is complete, the person in charge will send the measurement results to the hardware store. The home improvement store converts the estimate into an itemized list of materials and labor costs.
Home Depot will then coordinate the installation with a local installer, collect your payment, and schedule the work.
Home Depot flooring installation price
The actual cost of flooring from Home Depot varies widely depending on several factors.
Type of floor to be installed
room size
layout complexity
Existing flooring that needs to be removed (if applicable)
condition of the base
Local vendors assigned to the project
Home Depot lists average flooring installation costs and additional materials costs on its website. You can use the table below to get an idea of how much your flooring project will cost. Please note that these prices vary.
Types of flooring
Average cost (per square foot)
carpet
$2 to $4.50
Luxury vinyl plank (LVT) or tile (LVT)
$2 – $6
laminate
$3.80 – $4.80
Hardwood/artificial wood
$6-$7
tile
$9 – $10
Home Depot also provides estimates for additional prep work that may be required, including:
Removal of old flooring: $1 to $4 per square foot
Level the subfloor: $0.25 to $1 per square foot
It is important to note that these are just estimates and the totals can vary considerably. Derek Shumon, co-founder of HOMEstretch, a company dedicated to maximizing pre-sale home value through renovation, explains:
“The floor you see is not the be-all and end-all of a project; the underlying conditions will drive the cost. The best way to avoid surprises is to ask the vendor how much the floor will cost as a complete system, from demo, prep, installation, and finish.”
The flooring will be installed by the home center.
Home Depot offers all the standard flooring options, including vinyl and laminate flooring. If you’re looking for less common materials like cork, polished concrete, or bamboo, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Types of flooring
ideal placement
not ideal
carpet
bedroom
Areas with heavy traffic or areas prone to spills or leaks
LVP/LVT
Bedroom, living area, kitchen, basement, bathroom
Not applicable
laminate
Laundry room and low-traffic living area
High traffic area
Hardwood/artificial wood
bedroom and living area
kitchen, bathroom, laundry room
tile
kitchen and bathroom
Most living areas and bedrooms
more: Is there really a difference between hardwood and engineered wood?
How Home Depot measures the floors it installs
Home Depot will send in-house experts to your home to measure your project and inspect for issues that could complicate your project. The measurement takes an estimated 45 minutes. During that time, your specialist will perform the following tasks:
Measuring floor coverage: A professional will measure the overall dimensions of your installation space and estimate the cost.
Assess the complexity of your installation. They will evaluate the difficulty of the installation by looking at things like the complexity of the room and the location of the heating elements on the baseboard.
Measuring trims and other add-ons: If you’re having Home Depot reinstall trim and room transitions, they can take measurements for these additional items.
Assess the condition of existing floors and subfloors. Whenever possible, the professional will assess the condition and flatness of the subfloor and take notes on potential repairs.
Take a photo and share it with your instructor. Finally, your representative will take photos and videos and share them with the installer. This ensures the installer understands the project and ensures a smooth transition.
Should you buy flooring before or after home improvement measures?
You can purchase your flooring before requesting a quote from Home Depot, but you don’t have to. If so, your representative will ensure that the total compensation is appropriate and will estimate costs based solely on labor costs.
If you do not purchase flooring in advance, your representative will include the cost of materials in your estimate.
How much does a professional measurement at Home Depot cost?
Home Depot charges a non-refundable fee of $35 for professional measurements, which varies by location. This is a small fee you pay to get an accurate quote and purchase the right amount of flooring.
home depot flooring reviews
There are very few third-party reviews for Home Depot’s flooring installation services. However, Home Depot has thousands of reviews from customers on its site. Each type of flooring has its own reviews.
We read hundreds of online reviews and found that our customers were generally satisfied. Overall, 75% to 90% of customers recommend Home Depot’s flooring installation services.
Most reviews are positive, commenting on the professionalism, timeliness, and affordability of materials and labor. Some customers have made positive comments about the quality of the installation, especially when it comes to carpet installation.
As with all installation services, there are some negative reviews to be aware of. Most of the negative reviews mention a lack of communication from Home Depot personnel, with some mentioning that the installers left the work area a mess.
A few reviews complained of poor installation quality, including visible gaps in the floor. But they were few.
Alternatives to home improvement flooring
If Home Depot isn’t your best bet, there are countless other flooring contractors out there. If you want to ensure the security of installations by domestic companies, the following options are available:
read more: Lowe’s flooring installation review
You can also choose a local flooring company that only serves your area. Although many customers find local companies to be more expensive, they often offer better customer service and may include long-term labor warranties due to superior craftsmanship. We recommend getting quotes from at least three companies and comparing them.
“The advice we give homeowners when comparing flooring options is to ensure they get a true ‘match-in’ comprehensive figure that includes materials, labor, demo, disposal, and standard preparation and finish details to avoid any surprises,” Schumon added.
How does USA TODAY rate flooring companies?
For each flooring company you research, consider all of the following:
Types of flooring offered
Material and labor costs per square foot
online evaluation
General customer consensus based on reviews
Measurement and installation process
Years of establishment
Will the company complete the installation in-house or outsource the labor?
Ratings and past customer opinions paint the clearest picture of what you can expect, so we focus on reading reviews to determine what you can expect throughout the process.
Bottom line: Is home improvement flooring right for you?
If you’re on a tight budget or need multiple types of flooring installed at once, Home Depot may be your best option. However, if you want top-notch customer service and a company that handles everything from start to finish, you may be better off looking elsewhere.
Home Depot flooring covers the entire country and offers a wide range of flooring options at affordable prices, including carpet, wood, laminate, vinyl, tile, and garage floor coatings.
According to customer reviews, they outsource all installation work to local providers, which doesn’t necessarily provide great communication or customer service.
FAQ
Can the home center install flooring materials?
Home Depot also sells flooring products and provides installation services, but outsources all labor to local third-party installers. Home Depot can measure your flooring project and subcontract it to flooring professionals, but Home Depot installers aren’t the ones who actually complete the project.
How much does it cost for a contractor to install the flooring?
According to the flooring experts we spoke to, flooring installation costs range from $1.50 to $12 per square foot, depending on the type of flooring needed. Stone, tile, and wood floors have the highest installation costs, while vinyl, laminate, and carpet have the lowest installation costs. Prices may also vary depending on the type of floor that needs to be removed before installation, as well as any necessary surface preparation or repairs.
Is it better to hire a construction company or a flooring company to install the flooring?
Both flooring contractors and flooring companies can be great resources when it comes to flooring installation, but experience will vary depending on the specific company. If possible, read customer reviews and note any patterns you notice among the negative reviews. This will give you important insight into how the company operates and the experience you may have.
Which is better for flooring: Lowe’s or Home Depot?
Lowe’s and Home Depot offer similar flooring services, including access to the most common flooring types and competitive prices. Both retailers outsource the actual installation work to local installers, and both have had some issues with customer service as a result. However, while Lowe’s offers a one-year labor warranty, Home Depot’s coverage goes far beyond that and includes a lifetime warranty on carpet installation.
Less than a week after the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran, the conflict has escalated rapidly, spreading to several countries in the Middle East, with some European countries also stepping up military support.
Hundreds of missiles were launched and intercepted by more than six countries in the Persian Gulf. The scope of the war expanded on March 4, when a U.S. submarine sank an Iranian navy ship in international waters, and NATO air defenses intercepted an Iranian missile headed for Turkey, one of the alliance’s members.
The United States and Israel say a war against Iran is necessary to end Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Opponents, including many members of the Democratic Party, dispute these statements.
The death toll will increase. Americans advised withdrawal
More than 1,200 Iranians, 10 Israelis and six U.S. military personnel have been killed in the conflict, with dozens more caught up in retaliatory attacks in several Middle Eastern countries. Aside from Iran, Lebanon has suffered the next highest number of casualties. The country’s Health Ministry reported that more than 75 people were killed and 500 injured in Israeli attacks carried out in response to Hezbollah’s rocket launches into Israel on March 2.
Iran also attacked U.S. military bases in Iraq, Bahrain, and Kuwait. On March 1, six American soldiers were killed in a drone attack launched by Iranian forces in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait.
The State Department has advised Americans to leave 14 countries in the Middle East, citing “serious security risks.” In addition to Iran and Israel, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates are among the countries listed in the new travel alert.
Which countries were affected by the war?
In addition to the United States, Israel, and Iran, more than a dozen other countries have become directly or indirectly involved in the war in the past week.
Iran responded to the initial U.S. and Israeli attacks by targeting Israel as well as several U.S. allies in the Persian Gulf region.
Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain are targets of Iranian missile and drone attacks. We’ve stopped hundreds of attacks in the past few days. The same goes for Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq.
Several European allies have transferred military assets to help defend against Iranian drones and missiles. Overseas military bases operated by France and Britain have also been targeted by Iran in recent days, including a British base in Cyprus.
Britain, France and Greece announced they would send air defense forces to Cyprus after a drone attack on the Royal Air Force’s Akrotiri base on the Mediterranean island.
Here’s how the Middle East and Gulf states are being affected by the growing wars.
Azerbaijan: Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Defense announced on March 5 that an Iranian drone attacked a local airport in the Nakhchivan enclave on the border with Iran, injuring four people.
bahrain: The government says it has destroyed more than 180 Iranian missiles and drones since the war began.
Cyprus: Iran attacked the British air base of Akrotiri on the Mediterranean island on March 2, prompting British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to promise to send naval vessels and helicopters with anti-drone capabilities to the area.
Iraq: According to the Iraqi government, the Iraqi city of Erbil, which is home to a US air force base, has been attacked by Iranian missiles.
Jordan: According to news reports, Jordan, home of Muwaffaq al-Salti Air Base, where the Air Force’s 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing is based, also intercepted an Iranian missile.
Kuwait: On March 1, Iranian forces carried out a drone attack on the port of Shuaiba, killing six U.S. soldiers. The American embassy in Kuwait was closed following another attack. No injuries to U.S. military personnel were reported.
Lebanon: On March 2, Hezbollah fired rockets at Israel in a retaliatory attack that killed many and displaced tens of thousands of people from southern Lebanon and the southern suburbs of Beirut.
Oman: On March 3, an Iranian drone attacked a fuel tank at Oman’s Duqm commercial port, as Iran intensifies its attacks on energy facilities and transportation hubs in the Gulf.
Saudi Arabia: The US embassy in Riyadh, located hundreds of miles inland from the Persian Gulf coast, was attacked by two Iranian drones on March 3, causing a fire and some property damage. It also intercepted several drones headed for Prince Sultan Air Base, where U.S. military personnel are stationed.
UAE: The country’s defense ministry said it had intercepted more than 1,000 drones and missiles and reported more than 70 attacks within its borders. A French base was also attacked, as was Abu Dhabi’s international airport.
Qatar: The country’s Defense Ministry has reported dozens of Iranian attacks since the war began. Targets also included Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the forward headquarters of U.S. Central Command, but those attacks were thwarted.
Contributed by: Reuters
Kathryn Palmer is USA TODAY’s political reporter. She can be reached at the following address: kapalmer@usatoday.com And with X@Kathryn Purml. Sign up for her daily politics newsletter here.
As the use of AI therapy chatbots increases, so do the potential dangers
Will AI help close the mental health gap, or will it do more harm than good?
Daniel Fountainberry met his wife during the coronavirus lockdown. A year later they got married and also had a child.
Still in the “discovery” phase of their relationship, as Fountainberry puts it, they decided to undergo couples therapy to better navigate their new marriage.
However, the price for each session was shocking. According to the Cerebral Institute, in-person couples therapy sessions in the United States range from $100 to $300 per hour. While looking for a therapist, Fountainberry found that some were charging as much as $350 for a 50-minute session.
The experience itself was very tiring. He often felt that his therapist did not listen to him during sessions, or that session time ended when he was on the brink of a problem.
Fountainberry started working in the AI and educational technology field in 2020 and shared her frustrations about couples therapy with another friend who works in the technology field. He decided he needed another intervention, not another therapist. He had the idea of creating a “neutral referee,” an AI model that could help people understand and change their behavior.
He believes that “therapy doesn’t necessarily have to be given to you.” “Instead of believing that there are people who do magic with this secret knowledge, we believe that that knowledge is out in the public domain,” he says.
Therefore, CoupleRef, a US-based “AI couple referee” platform, was launched in February 2026. Fountainberry said CoupleRef uses AI to restructure evidence-based practice and evaluation to provide an experience similar to meeting with a doctoral-level clinical psychologist.
“I decided to build this facility for my own marriage and relationships,” he says. “But we also decided to build this facility for other people who are frustrated or who are looking for an alternative to additional treatments.”
So, is AI couples therapy the new frontier for AI wellness? AI therapy is becoming increasingly popular with the emergence of “chat GPT-induced psychosis” and lawsuits against OpenAI for mental health harm. Mental health experts warn that AI chatbots cannot replace humans, especially therapists.
AI Alternatives Could Reduce Cost Barriers to Couples Therapy
coupleRef plans to charge users $12 per week. It’s a cheaper alternative to real-life couples therapy, but it doesn’t have the added benefit of having a real person on the other end of the conversation. Fountainberry said the high cost of couples therapy can eat away at vacation funds and other essential expenses, and he wants his platform to be accessible to couples regardless of their income.
“I would rather couples get to the heart of their issues, understand their emotional needs and their partner’s emotional needs, and then go on vacation and spend quality time together,” Fountainberry says.
Fountainberry said he and his wife, Cecelia Weary, speak to CoupleRef every day. With his wife’s permission, Fountainberry shared with CoupleRef a transcript of a conversation the couple had on December 26, 2025. She said she used it uniquely to understand how to process her emotions and overcome friction points in her marriage regarding household responsibilities.
“The kitchen is a war zone,” wrote Weari, who went by the username “Joz” on the platform.
The chatbot elicited a “Five-Factor Personality Assessment” that both partners took during the intake and responded, “Jos, for you, cleaning while cooking is a logical and efficient process…From Daniel’s perspective, his very low conscientiousness means he thrives on spontaneity and adaptability.”
The answers are similar to what users would expect from an astrology app like Co-Star or The Pattern. These apps provide general explanations of behavioral patterns based on the astrological signs of your birth chart and allow you to apply them to your own life. CoupleRef, on the other hand, explains how these overarching patterns influence user behavior in specific situations shared with chatbots.
By the end of the exchange, CoupleRef had communicated his needs to Weary and suggested steps to set boundaries to mitigate Fountainberry’s behavior.
“There are some cases where it’s better to treat you and your therapy partner in person,” Fountainberry acknowledges. “But without money or access, it’s not an option. So everyone needs options.”
Online interventions are not new for couples
CoupleRef is not the first platform to offer online interventions. Arya is a sex subscription box founded in 2022 that also allows couples to address tension points in their relationships and their sex lives with a third person called a “concierge.” A real human is involved, but AI informs the concierge’s response.
According to the company, Arya integrates AI and human monitoring to extend personalized support. Customer service responses are automated, but relationship guidance is more complex. Arya’s AI models are privately trained with knowledge from in-house relationship experts and sexologists and can provide instant responses, but a human concierge reviews and confirms the AI’s recommendations. If an issue is flagged as requiring deeper expertise or personalization, it will be escalated directly to a human expert, Aria said.
Safeguards are essential to reduce harm from AI therapy
Fountainberry said CoupleRef is not suitable for individuals experiencing intimate partner violence, but the platform does not manually review conversations to protect user privacy.
Mental health experts have warned that using AI tools as a substitute for mental health support can reinforce negative behaviors and thought patterns, especially if these models are not equipped with appropriate safeguards.
“ChatGPT is going to be consensus-based and we’re going to do it relentlessly. It’s not helpful at best, but it can be incredibly harmful in extreme cases,” Dr. Jenna Glover, Headspace’s chief clinical officer, previously told USA TODAY while discussing the rise of AI therapeutics. “On the other hand, as a therapist, I’m going to validate you, but I can do that by acknowledging what you’re going through. I don’t have to agree with you.”
Experts dispute President Trump’s autism claims about Tylenol
Medical experts are defending the safety of Tylenol during pregnancy and disputing President Donald Trump’s autism claims.
President Donald Trump’s comments in September about Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism likely had real-world effects, even though experts and years of evidence deny any link, a new study reveals.
Emergency room orders for Tylenol dropped significantly after a September 22 White House briefing in which President Trump, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and other officials said they had found “the answer to autism” and told pregnant women to avoid taking Tylenol (the brand name for acetaminophen or paracetamol), according to a study published March 5 in the medical journal The Lancet.
The study found that the use of acetaminophen to treat pregnant patients decreased by 10% in the months following the information session, and the increased risk of autism was due to Tylenol use during pregnancy, although evidence was limited. However, for women of the same age who were not pregnant, there was no change in usage.
This significant downward trend in Tylenol orders began as early as the day after the meeting, said study co-author Dr. Michael Barnett, professor of health services, policy, and practice at Brown University School of Public Health.
“We were surprised at the speed of the response,” he told USA TODAY. “The words of public servants were powerful, and both the public and clinicians quickly changed their actions.”
“We have gone way back”: Autism groups respond to Trump administration’s Tylenol claims
Fewer Tylenol orders mean more prescriptions for unproven treatments: study
Study authors compared emergency room prescriptions before (June 30 to September 21) and after (September 22 to December 7) the White House press conference, using 2025 U.S. data from an electronic database that stores the health records of 294 million patients in more than 1,633 hospitals and 37,000 clinics.
The researchers found that acetaminophen prescriptions for pregnant women ages 15 to 44 not only fell by 10% over the study period from September to December, but also that the decline peaked at 20% in the third week after President Trump’s comments.
Prescriptions tended to return to more normal numbers as the study progressed, which the authors attribute to the disappearance of press conferences from people’s minds and messages of disapproval from groups such as the World Health Organization, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Autism Self-Advocacy Network.
“Because acetaminophen is so familiar and known to be safe, concerns may have waned as people returned to their normal daily lives,” Barnett said. “More data will be needed to confirm whether there has been a sustained decline in usage over a long period of time.”
The study could not account for seasonality (cold and flu season, which begins in November, typically causes increased prescribing of acetaminophen), pregnant women using acetaminophen at home, or treatment outside the emergency department. Because patients and health care providers were not interviewed, it is unclear whether more patients were refusing acetaminophen or whether fewer health care providers were prescribing acetaminophen in the first place.
According to the study, the results “demonstrate the clear power of public authorities to drive rapid change in medical practice.” “Here, no new data was presented, but we immediately observed changes in usage.”
At the same press conference, President Trump and his advisers also discussed leucovorin, a potential treatment for autism. President Kennedy is reportedly pushing for FDA approval for the drug. Despite the lack of clinical trials and evidence to support the use of leucovorin in people with autism, new outpatient leucovorin prescriptions for children aged 5 to 17 years increased by 71% during the study period.
Trump administration, Tylenol and autism
The Trump administration has repeatedly touted its plans to uncover the “cause” of autism. However, decades of medical and scientific consensus indicate that there is no single cause, including drugs, that autism is likely to result from, but is likely the result of multiple factors, including genetics.
At a press conference in September, President Trump reiterated to pregnant women that they should avoid taking Tylenol unless they “cannot tolerate it,” in which case they should limit their intake.
“At this time, there is no conclusive evidence of a causal relationship between prenatal acetaminophen/paracetamol exposure and autism,” Dr. Sara Rodriguez, executive director of the Balance Learning Center, a nonprofit that serves autistic and neurodivergent individuals, told USA TODAY. “A recent strong literature synthesis found no evidence that maternal paracetamol use during pregnancy increases the risk of autism, ADHD or intellectual disability.”
Still, she said messages of fear and alarm like those coming from the White House tend to strike a nerve and multiply regardless of strong evidence. These trends could have very real implications, she added.
The most immediate physical risk is that pregnant people are too afraid of typical first-line options to seek treatment for symptoms such as pain and fever that can negatively impact their health. Socially, it can promote “increased guilt, increased confusion, increased mistrust of doctors and public health institutions, and increased interest in unproven interventions,” she said.
The release followed reports that documents were being withheld. The Justice Department said the documents were “erroneously encrypted.”
The Justice Department has released an FBI interview with a woman who said she was introduced to Donald Trump by Jeffrey Epstein and was sexually and physically abused by Trump when she was a minor, a move the White House called “completely baseless.”
The announcement followed multiple reports that documents related to the charges against Trump were being withheld. The Justice Department said it was withholding records that were “incorrectly coded as duplicates.”
The woman, whose name was redacted, said in a 2019 interview with the FBI that she traveled with Epstein to New York or New Jersey when she was 13 to 15 and met President Trump in a “very tall building with a big room.” She said multiple people were present and Trump asked everyone to leave the room and then sexually assaulted her.
White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt said in a statement on March 6, “These are completely unfounded accusations and are devoid of any credible evidence.”
Trump has repeatedly denied wrongdoing in his relationship with Epstein. He has not been charged in connection with the investigation.
The Miami Herald reported that the woman who accused President Trump of sexual assault has stopped cooperating. After the woman made her initial complaint, the FBI asked her in a subsequent interview if she was comfortable “disclosing details of her contacts with Mr. Trump,” and asked her “at this point in her life, what was the point in providing information when there was likely nothing could be done about it,” according to a summary of the interview.
The Epstein File Transparency Act requires the Justice Department to release all investigative files it maintains related to disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who has been accused of sexually assaulting more than 1,000 women and girls. He died by suicide in custody while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.
The records contain unsubstantiated allegations against a number of high-profile individuals.
In one previously released 2019 FBI interview, the woman spoke about meeting a man later identified as Epstein when she was around 13 years old. He said his mother, who worked in real estate, placed an ad for “renters and owners” for babysitting services.
The woman said Epstein responded to the ad and met him at his home, where he gave her drugs and alcohol and sexually assaulted her. According to an interview summary, she said he assaulted her multiple times.
In response to questions about the women’s allegations and whether they led to further investigation, the Justice Department shared part of a news release the agency issued in January when millions of Epstein records were made public, saying, “Some of the documents contain false and sensational allegations against President Trump that were submitted to the FBI just before the 2020 election.”
“Let me be clear: these allegations are baseless and false, and if they had any credibility, they would undoubtedly already have been used as a weapon against President Trump,” the statement continues.
An NPR investigation found that 53 pages of records related to the accusations against Trump appear to have been suppressed by the Justice Department. Despite the release of some records, 37 pages are still missing from the Justice Department’s database, NPR reported.
While most areas of our homes are cleaned weekly or even daily, windows are all too often ignored, relegated to the bottom of the home maintenance checklist until they’re too dirty to ignore. Perhaps this is because cleaning windows takes time and effort, and if streaks are the norm rather than the exception, it can add frustration to the list.
But cleaning windows doesn’t have to be complicated. All you need is the right tools and techniques.
We consulted several experts for advice on how to wash your windows like a pro. No streaks, no stains, no stress.
Everything you need to wash your windows properly
We spoke with Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean, a zero-waste home cleaning brand since 2004. She recommended starting with the following resources:
For interior windows:
Microfiber cloths (minimum 2 per window)
spray bottle
Natural glass cleaner or DIY solution (2 cups water, 1/2 cup vinegar, and a few drops of mild dish soap in a spray bottle)
small bucket (optional)
Squeegee (optional)
For outdoor windows:
For cleaning windows, ready-made window cleaning solutions are effective and easy to use. But Sokolowski says you can also make your own by mixing two cups of water, half a cup of vinegar, and a few drops of mild dish soap in a spray bottle. For particularly dirty windows, skip dish soap and instead use a 1:1 mixture of vinegar and water.
Correct way to wash interior windows
Once you have gathered the appropriate tools, you can start cleaning indoor windows. This process is similar to the one done outdoors, but less intensive. Indoor windows tend to collect less dirt than outdoor windows.
Sokolowski shares his go-to process for window cleaning and his favorite pro tips.
Before you begin: Remove dust and debris.
Wipe the frame, sills, tracks, and corners with a dry cloth. This will prevent the dust from turning into muddy streaks later on. Vacuum out any small particles or dead insects hiding in the crevices.
Step 1: Apply cleaning solution
Apply your cleaning solution of choice by misting the cleaner or DIY solution onto the glass. Do not soak. Overspraying will only cause streaks.
Step 2: Wipe from top to bottom
Remove the glass cleaner or soap solution using a clean microfiber cloth or squeegee. If you’re using a squeegee, be sure to wipe the blade between each pass.
Step 3: Buff drying
Once you’ve cleaned the entire window, grab a new microfiber cloth and wipe away any remaining residue.
As a hint: Clean one side vertically and the other horizontally. If you look at the stripes later, you’ll know which side it’s on.
How to properly wash outdoor windows
Outdoor windows can be difficult to clean. It’s harder to reach and may have more dirt on it than what you see inside.
“Outdoor windows often accumulate dirt, pollen, bird droppings, and pollutants, so the cleaning process is a little more intensive,” says Sokolowski.
As it turns out, the best way to wash windows outdoors is with a soap and water solution, a squeegee, and a garden hose with a spray attachment for rinsing. Here’s the process Sokolowski recommends:
Step 1: Pre-rinse
Hose the window to remove loose dirt. Sokolowski says this is an important first step because loose dirt and debris can scratch the glass during cleaning.
Step 2: Wash
Use a soap and water solution and gently scrub the surface of the glass with a sponge or soft brush.
Step 3: Rinse thoroughly
Rinse the windows thoroughly using a garden hose with a spray attachment. If soap solution remains, it will cause streaks.
Step 4: Dry
Dry with a squeegee, wiping the blade between each stroke.
Step 5: Detail the edges
Wipe the edges and window frame of the window with a microfiber cloth.
As a hint: Avoid cleaning outdoor windows that are exposed to direct sunlight. The heat dries the cleaner quickly, creating streaks.
How to wash windows without leaving streaks
“Clean tools, proper technique, and water quality are key to avoiding streaks,” says Frankie Aslanyan, owner of Franklin’s Window Cleaning.
Aslanyan explains that you should change and clean the water frequently, use a sharp squeegee blade and high-quality towels, and avoid direct sunlight while washing. He says experts often avoid streaking by using purified water that doesn’t contain minerals.
How often should I wash my windows?
“Most homes benefit from having their windows cleaned twice a year,” says Aslanyan.
For most of us, this roughly equates to spring and fall cleaning. And while that frequency is sufficient in most cases, Aslanyan adds, “Outdoor windows typically need to be cleaned more frequently than indoor glass. Homes that are exposed to high amounts of pollen, construction dust, traffic pollution, or hard water may need to have their windows cleaned up to three to four times a year.”
What are some common mistakes made when cleaning windows?
With a combined 35 years of experience, our experts have seen the same mistakes time and time again. The most common mistakes when cleaning windows seem to be using the wrong materials or supplies or cleaning on a sunny day.
Using paper towels
Aslanyan says a common mistake is using paper towels. While convenient, they can leave behind lint and fibers and only move dirt around rather than remove it.
Fix: The best way to wash windows is with a microfiber cloth. Microfiber cloths, whose fine fibers are known to trap dirt, typically polish surfaces better without leaving lint, fibers, or dust on window surfaces.
Cleaning in direct sunlight
If you’re trying to figure out how to wash windows without leaving streaks, timing is key. Bright sunlight can cause window cleaning solutions to dry prematurely, often leaving streaks and spots.
Fix: Wipe your windows on cloudy days. To further minimize streaking, apply the cleaning solution only to the window you are working on.
use tap water
“Unfiltered tap water contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium,” says Aslanian. “When that water dries on the glass, it leaves behind stains, streaks and residue.”
Aslanyan points out that this is one of the main reasons why windows look bad after cleaning. “Professional window cleaners often use purified or deionized water, which does not contain minerals. Purified water leaves no residue when dry, resulting in a spotless finish.”
Other common window cleaning mistakes, according to Aslanyan, include:
ignore frames and sills
Reusing dirty water and towels
Using too much soap or detergent
FAQ
Is Dawn dish detergent suitable for washing outside windows?
A soap and water solution containing Dawn dish detergent is great for removing pollen, grease, and dirt. But Aslanyan warns, “Dawn can be effective if used sparingly. Too much dish detergent can leave a residue that can eventually cause streaks and stains.”
What do professional window cleaners use for water?
While professional window cleaners may use their own formulas in the process, Aslanyan says purified or deionized water is often used as part of the mixture because it leaves no residue and doesn’t leave stains or streaks.
Why do stains remain after I clean my windows?
“Stains are often caused by mineral residue from unfiltered water, soap buildup, dirty tools, or worn squeegee blades. However, in some cases, what appears to be dirt may actually be permanent glass damage that cleaning alone cannot repair.”
Can you remove fog from glass with vinegar?
Vinegar can be effective against mild mineral build-up, hard water stains, and soap residue, but Aslanyan warns that permanent problems like hard water etching, glass corrosion, and broken seals cannot be fixed with vinegar. These issues may require professional repair or glass replacement.
“Make America Safe Again”: President Trump’s new banner on the Justice Department building
A banner of President Trump has been unfurled outside the Justice Department in the latest effort to stamp his identity on Washington institutions.
The Florida Bar Association says it is not investigating controversial former federal prosecutor Lindsay Harrigan, despite the association writing to the contrary in a letter last month, but said it is monitoring the case.
“An investigation is already pending,” the Florida bar wrote in a Feb. 4 letter about Harrigan to the nonprofit Campaign for Accountability (CfA), according to a copy of CfA’s letter released March 5.
But on March 6, a Florida court retracted the statement, saying it was written “in error.”
“In response to an inquiry from the plaintiff, the Florida Bar sent a letter to the plaintiff incorrectly stating that there was a pending forensic investigation against member Lindsey Harrigan. There is no such pending forensic investigation,” Florida Bar Communications Director Jennifer Krell Davis said in a statement to USA TODAY.
The Feb. 4 letter was sent in response to complaints filed by CfA with the Florida and Virginia bar associations.
“We are aware of these developments and are closely monitoring them,” the letter added. Ms Halligan’s letter appears to have been photocopied, suggesting it was also sent to her.
The complaint asked attorneys in Florida and Virginia to investigate whether Mr. Harrigan’s service as U.S. attorney violated the association’s code of conduct.
“In this case, the Florida Bar has received the complaint against Lindsay Harrigan, and, as is standard practice, the Bar is monitoring the ongoing legal proceedings underlying the complaint,” Davis said.
“While CfA has not heard directly from the Florida Bar, it is difficult to reconcile this latest statement with the attorney’s previous letter that an investigation is pending,” CfA Executive Director Michelle Kuppersmith said in a statement. “If there is no longer an investigation into Harrigan, the question is why not, given that three judges have found that she has engaged in conduct that appears to violate the Code of Ethics.”
Harrigan, a former personal attorney to President Donald Trump, retired from the U.S. attorney’s office in January after a federal judge ruled he was illegally appointed to the position four months earlier.
During his tenure, Harrigan filed charges against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, which were later dismissed.
USA TODAY has reached out to Harrigan and the Justice Department for comment.
Who is Lindsey Harrigan?
In September 2025, Attorney General Pam Bondi appointed Harrigan to head the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia after former Chief Justice Eric Siebert resigned.
Mr. Siebert reportedly expressed skepticism about bringing charges against Mr. Comey and Mr. James and told colleagues in an email that he was resigning. President Trump later said in a social media post that he had fired Sievert.
Hours after that post, Bondi issued an order appointing Harrigan as interim chief. Harrigan had never been a prosecutor before.
Within weeks of his appointment, Mr. Harrigan’s office secured indictments against both Mr. Comey and Mr. James. The charges were later dismissed.
Why Lindsay Harrigan’s role as U.S. attorney was challenged
Two months after Mr. Harrigan’s office announced the charges against Mr. Comey and Mr. James, the charges were dismissed when a judge ruled that Mr. Harrigan was illegally appointed to the position.
Senior U.S. District Judge Cameron McGowan Curry said in an opinion that only the district court has the authority to appoint a new chief justice for the Eastern District of Virginia. Mr. Curry said that because Mr. Harrigan was not legally appointed, her actions as a prosecutor, including securing indictments against Mr. Comey and Mr. James, must be set aside. The Department of Justice appealed this decision.
In a separate lawsuit, on January 6, U.S. District Judge David Novak of the Eastern District of Virginia ordered Harrigan to explain why he identified himself as a U.S. attorney, given an earlier ruling. In response, the Justice Department accused Novak of exceeding his authority.
And in his Jan. 20 ruling, Novak threatened Harrigan with disciplinary proceedings if he continued to use the title U.S. attorney. The next day, Bondi announced Harrigan’s resignation from the role.
Contributor: James Powell, USA TODAY
Melina Khan is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Contact her at melina.khan@usatoday.com.
“Isn’t it fair to ask if a drink with 180 grams of sugar is safe?” Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. asked about Dunkin’ beverages in an X post.
Social media shows off Dunkin’s large iced coffee bucket
The 48-ounce beverage bucket appears to be being tested at some Dunkin’ stores in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.
U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is not letting up on the Dunkin scandal.
In a March 4 post on X, Kennedy asked if Dunkin’s drinks containing 180 grams of sugar were reasonable. The post came in response to Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey earlier in the day sharing a photo with X of the 1835 “Come and Take It” flag, first used at the beginning of the Texas Revolution, plus a Dunkin’ Cup.
“Nobody’s going to take your Dunkin away,” Kennedy responded. “But isn’t it reasonable to ask whether a drink with 180 grams of sugar is safe?”
Healy’s post came after the Eat Real Food Rally in Austin, Texas, on February 26, where Kennedy said he plans to pressure coffee chains like Dunkin’ and Starbucks to prove their ingredients are safe.
“I want to see the safety data that shows it’s safe for teenage girls to drink iced coffee with 115 grams of sugar,” Kennedy said during the rally. “I don’t think they can do it.”
President Kennedy’s harsh criticism of coffee chains like Dunkin’ comes after he announced new U.S. dietary guidelines in January that call for more protein, less sugar and fewer ultra-processed foods.
more: RFK Jr. questions sweet Dunkin’ drinks, draws governor’s defense
Does a Dunkin’ drink contain 180 grams of sugar?
According to Dunkin’ nutritional guide posted on the coffee chain’s website, none of the drinks on the menu contain 180 grams of sugar.
The drinks with the highest sugar content are the Large Butter Pecan Swirl Frozen Coffee with Skim Milk and the Large Caramel Cream Frozen Coffee, which contain 172 grams of sugar, according to the guide.
Kennedy’s X post comes about a week after Dunkin’ customers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire were able to purchase 48-ounce beverage buckets, according to a previous report by USA TODAY. Customers can order Strawberry Dragonfruit Lemonade Refresher, Blueberry Cobbler Iced Latte, and Caramel Coco Iced Coffee in the drink bucket, according to a social media post.
When contacted by USA TODAY on March 6, Dunkin’ did not immediately respond to explain how much sugar is in the drinks, which are served in 48-ounce buckets. But for reference, a large Strawberry Dragonfruit Lemonade Refresher contains 72 grams of sugar, and a large Blueberry Cobbler Iced Latte contains 50 grams, according to the chain’s nutrition guide. Dunkin’s large iced drinks are 32 oz.
Contributors: Fernando Cervantes Jr. and Melina Khan, USA TODAY
Greta Cross is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Story ideas? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.
Good morning and Happy Friday! I’m Betty Lynn Fisher for the Friday consumer edition of Daily Money.
I don’t know about you, but I shudder when I think about cockroaches, or really any of the largest insects running around.
So the headline of Andrea Rikier’s article, “Cockroaches in your finances? What you need to know about ‘private credit'” definitely caught my attention this morning.
Andrea describes the prevalence of ‘cockroaches’ in private credit. This refers to the increase in investment companies lending directly to private companies.
Walmart changes to digital shelf labels
Walmart will expand digital shelf labels to all U.S. stores over the next year.
My colleagues Greta Cross and Saleen Martin report that Walmart stores will soon replace manually replaced paper price tags on shelves with digital price tags managed by a central system. Price changes that originally took days can now be completed in minutes.
📰 Consumer stories you can’t miss 📰
🍔Today’s menu🍔
Well, here’s an interesting job. Wendy’s is hosting a competition to hire a chief tasting officer with a salary of $100,000.
“Basically, you get paid to eat, relax, create content, and appear in ads with Wendy’s,” the Wendy’s contest blurb says.
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.
President Trump tells Iranian forces to surrender or face ‘certain death’
As the Iran conflict continues to escalate, President Trump has called on Iran’s military to surrender or face “absolute death.”
Defining Trump’s worst day in the White House: Growing questions about an unpopular war aren’t the worst news you’ll face.
On March 6, President Donald Trump found himself having to deal not only with an escalation in US attacks on Iran, but also with job losses, rising gas prices, and unconfirmed sexual misconduct allegations with the release of more Jeffrey Epstein files.
It was a reminder that even presidents with the most expansive ambitions can’t control at least all of them. Some, including those who had enjoyed a rosy first term, saw signs of the curse of a second term, where excesses can sometimes weaken a president.
more: Curse of second season? Look at President Trump’s Greenland and immigration issues
President Trump chose the timing of a week-long war with Tehran that has spread to NATO and Gulf states. However, the release of the Department of Labor’s February jobs report, which showed an unexpected 92,000 job losses, came as expected. Gasoline prices, a thermometer of economic well-being for many Americans, have soared to an average of $3.32 nationally, reflecting the oil crisis caused by the war.
more: As the war escalated, oil prices soared, with gasoline exceeding $3 nationwide. What comes next?
The price sets a record high during Trump’s two terms as president, and it comes just a week after Trump boasted in his State of the Union address that low gas prices were proof that “inflation is plummeting” under his leadership.
“I have no concerns about that,” Trump told Reuters. “Once this is over, they will decline rapidly.”
Additionally, there have been delays in releasing additional files from the Justice Department’s investigation into disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. It included FBI interviews with women who said they were abused by Epstein and Trump as teenagers. The accusations have not been verified, and President Trump has denied any wrongdoing.
It is well known that Mr. Trump loves chaos. Still, what should the president do?
He suggested hitting another ball into the air.
“Cuba is going to collapse soon,” he told CNN’s Dana Bash in a morning phone interview. “I’m going to put Marco in there and let’s see what happens.”
Of course, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is already doing a lot.
It’s the economy, idiot. everytime.
Endangered presidents are sacrificing the table economy to focus on overseas adventures and other pursuits.
Just ask George H.W. Bush. After a quick and victorious victory in the first Gulf War, he lost re-election to challenger Bill Clinton, who promised a “laser-like” focus on the economic plight of Americans.
The Trump administration blamed the disappointing jobs report on strikes, bad weather and former President Joe Biden.
“There continue to be some positive signs in the U.S. economy that American workers are recovering from the mess left behind by Mr. Biden,” Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said in a statement. However, the 46th president stepped down more than a year ago.
Democrats, who see voter concerns about inflation and health care as the biggest issues in this year’s midterm elections, criticized President Trump.
“This is sounding the alarm that President Donald Trump’s economy is rapidly deteriorating,” Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said in a statement. He warned that the economy was “tottering” on the brink of recession and could soon “go over a cliff”.
The weak employment report is sure to intensify the debate at the Federal Reserve’s next meeting on March 17th and 18th over whether to lower interest rates again as a step to promote growth and employment, or to leave them unchanged due to concerns about rising prices.
We’ll learn more about the current state of inflation next week with the release of the Consumer Price Index.
Oh, about that war
President Trump’s tone on Iran was triumphant.
“There is no deal with Iran other than unconditional surrender!” he declared in a March 6 post on Truth Social. “After that, and after we elect a great and acceptable leader, we and our many wonderful and very brave allies and partners will continue to work tirelessly to bring Iran back from the brink of destruction.”
He concluded by saying, “We will make Iran great again (miga!).”
But posts on social media sites reinforced questions about the war.
He told The Atlantic that he was open to negotiations with Iran, then called for “unconditional surrender.” His assertion that the U.S. government would decide whether Tehran’s new leadership was “acceptable” suggested regime change was the goal of the attack, which the administration has generally denied.
Also, it’s a sign of something that the removal of the Secretary of Homeland Security after a checkered tenure doesn’t make headlines.
Are you ready for more sunshine? Daylight saving time is just around the corner.
More than 5.6 million people will turn their clocks forward for the last time in March.
They just aren’t here in the US.
British Columbia, one of Canada’s largest provinces, announced a permanent shift to daylight saving time, citing tensions with its southern neighbor among its reasons.
Previously, this state changed over time in sync with the U.S. West Coast. The government said it waited to make the change because it wanted to coordinate with states that border the United States.
“Recent actions by the United States have changed the way B.C. approaches decisions that merit adjustment, including regarding time zones,” the government said. “These changes reflect the current preferences and needs of British Columbians and will help ensure that British Columbia is well-positioned to thrive even as conditions across our borders change.”
Summer time 2026: When “jumping forward”
The British Columbia government announced the move after a 2019 poll found an overwhelming majority (93%) supported permanent daylight saving time.
The idea of daylight saving time in the United States tends to eliminate time changes. A Gallup poll found that by January 2025, more than half of Americans (54%) want to eliminate the practice of daylight saving time.
British Columbia said it is eliminating the time changes to “improve people’s overall health, reduce disruption for families, simplify schedules and provide an additional hour of nighttime light during the winter months.”
After the March 8th time change, residents and businesses would normally have eight months to prepare for November 1st, when clocks are set back one hour, but this year will be no different. British Columbia will refer to its time zone as Pacific Time. During the winter, the state aligns with neighboring Alberta and other regions on Mountain Standard Time, and during the rest of the year, it aligns with Pacific Standard Time, as observed in California, Washington state, Oregon, and more.
Twice a year, in March when we move “forward” and in November when we move “backward,” there is a renewed call to adopt permanent time. But even though the United States appears to be moving toward change, or rather the end of change, only two states and some U.S. territories maintain the same hours throughout the year.
Will the final time in the US ever change?
There are rumors that the United States may join some of Canada’s neighbors. But the federal government hasn’t allowed it yet.
No state can implement permanent daylight saving time unless the U.S. Congress first passes a law authorizing daylight saving time. But several states have adopted or are considering legislation to make the switch if Congress thinks so. States, like most states like Hawaii and Arizona, can use a permanent standard time.
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, hundreds of bills and resolutions related to daylight saving time have been introduced in states in recent years. In 2026, 23 measures are pending in at least 16 states. According to NCSL, a small majority favors permanent standard time over permanent daylight saving time.
As of March 2026, there are 18 states that will implement permanent daylight saving time if Congress approves and, in some cases, neighboring states also make permanent changes to daylight saving time.
The history of time changes as follows. How Halloween contributed to daylight saving time changes
During his time in the Senate, Secretary of State Marco Rubio repeatedly called for legislation to make daylight saving time permanent. The Sunshine Protection Act passed the Senate in 2022, but did not advance in the House.
The Sunshine Protection Act of 2025 has also been introduced, but remains stalled in committee, NCSL reported. There’s also the Daylight Saving Time Act of 2026, which would move U.S. time zones forward by 30 minutes and leave them there permanently, splitting the difference between daylight saving time and standard time.
President Donald Trump has at times said he supports repealing the time change, but he has also appeared hesitant, calling it a “50-50 issue” last year.
“If something is a 50-50 issue, it’s hard to get excited about it,” Trump said last March. “I think people want more light later on, but some people want more light earlier on because they don’t want to take their kids to school in the dark…That’s something I can do, too, but a lot of people like it in one way and a lot of people like it in another way.”
Here’s what the science says about daylight saving time and health
Experts say changing your clock twice a year could have negative health effects. Eric Herzog, a professor of biology and neuroscience at Washington University in St. Louis and past president of the Society for the Study of Biological Rhythms, previously told USA TODAY that a permanent standard time would be most beneficial.
more: For some, ‘spring forward’ comes at a cost to mental health
Herzog said the change in time disrupts the circadian rhythm, or body clock. Jumping forward is more taxing on the body than falling backwards, he says. Herzog said the spring change has been linked to an increase in heart attacks and car accidents. Research shows that earlier sunrises and sunsets have better health effects. Waking up naturally with sunlight is much better for your body than relying on an alarm clock to wake you up in the dark, he said.
According to a study by the University of Colorado Boulder, car accidents increased by 6% after the change to daylight savings time in the spring.
“The medical and scientific communities are united in saying that a permanent standard time is better for human health,” Herzog told USA TODAY in 2024.
More countries are joining the escalating conflict between Iran and the US
U.S. stocks started the day sharply lower, hit by the double blow of a much weaker-than-expected monthly jobs report and escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The U.S. economy unexpectedly shrank by 92,000 jobs in February, and the downwardly revised January payrolls rose by 126,000, far below the 50,000 job growth forecast for the month by economists compiled by Dow Jones. The unemployment rate also rose from 4.3% to 4.4%.
Meanwhile, oil prices rose toward $90 per barrel after President Donald Trump said in a Truth social post that the war with Iran will not end without “unconditional surrender” from the Middle Eastern country. Kuwait has also started cutting production at some oil fields as oil spills have largely stopped and there is no room to store any more oil. Oil prices are on pace for their biggest weekly increase since 2020.
“The last survey of the labor market before the start of the conflict suggested that the labor market was not as strong as January figures indicated, and the longer the conflict drags on, the more negative feedback on economic activity and the labor market is likely to increase,” Kathy Bojancic, chief economist at Nationwide, said in a note.
10:14 a.m. ET. The blue-chip Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.44%, or 688.48 points, to 47,266.26, slightly recovering from an earlier drop of 800 points. The broad-based S&P 500 index fell 1.22%, or 83.48 points, to 6,747.23, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq fell 1.02%, or 231.058 points, to 22,517.928. West Texas crude oil soared 8.39% to $87.81 per barrel.
Can stagflation occur?
Stagflation, a situation in which the economy is barely growing but inflation is high, is not a baseline scenario for most economists. But some are now considering it a possibility, depending on how long the fighting in the Middle East continues.
Ellis Osenbaugh, head of investment strategy at JPMorgan Wealth Management, said the weak labor market “makes it harder for the Fed to sell the narrative of labor market stabilization that has been used to justify its patience with further rate cuts.” “Add to the complex job market story high oil prices given the resurgence of conflict in the Middle East and tariff uncertainty, and you have a tricky mix of stagflationary risks for the Fed.”
The benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury yield was recently at 4.167%, reflecting concerns about inflation.
Medora Lee is USA TODAY’s money, markets and personal finance reporter. Please contact us at mjlee@usatoday.com. Subscribe to our free Daily Money newsletter for personal finance tips and business news every Monday through Friday.
President Donald Trump has said further military operations against Iran are planned, and the Pentagon said on March 2 that the United States is ready to send more troops to fight Iran.
Iran has already launched retaliatory attacks against Israeli and US military facilities in the Persian Gulf.
How big is Iran? Iran is the 17th largest country in the world after Sudan and Libya. The area is approximately 636,000 square miles.
Now let’s compare the US military and Iran.
more: Who died in the Iran attack? See Tehran’s power structure
If you can’t see the graphic, click here to reload.
How strong is Iran’s military compared to the United States?
Iran continues to develop long-range missile technology under the watchful eye of its space launch program, but has not yet tested or launched any missiles that could potentially attack the United States.
more: A timeline showing how hostilities led to President Trump’s decision to attack Iran
What is Iran’s missile range capability?
According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Iran has thousands of ballistic and cruise missiles, some of which can reach Israel and some capable of reaching Eastern Europe. Iran has the largest and most diverse missile arsenal in the Middle East.
Iran has made significant efforts over the past decade to improve the accuracy and deadliness of these weapons. With these advances, Iran’s missile forces are now a powerful weapon for projecting Iranian power and a real threat to the military power of the United States and its allies in the region.
more: Satellite images show impact of US and Israeli attacks on Iran
Iranian missile attacks from 2017 to 2026
In June 2017, six ballistic missiles were launched in Deir Ezzor, Syria.
In September 2018, seven ballistic missiles were launched in Koya, Iraq.
In October 2018, six ballistic missiles were launched at Abu Kamal.
In September 2019, 18 drones were launched in Abqaiq, Saudi Arabia.
In September 2019, three cruise missiles were launched in Khurais, Saudi Arabia.
In January 2020, a ballistic missile was launched at Erbil Air Base in Iraq.
In January 2020, more than 11 ballistic missiles were launched at Ain al-Asad Air Base in Iraq.
Ballistic and cruise missiles launched in Erbil, Iraq in February and December 2021
Ballistic missile launch in Erbil, Iraq in March 2022
Ballistic and cruise missiles launched in Iraq and Syria in June 2023
Ballistic and cruise missiles launched in Pakistan, Israel, Iraq, and Syria in January, April, and October 2024
In June 2025, ballistic and cruise missiles were launched at Al Udidi Air Base in Qatar.
In March 2026, neighboring countries launched ballistic missiles and cruise missiles targeting US military bases and Israel.
Source: Al Jazeera; Center for Strategic and International Studies. Council on Foreign Relations; USA TODAY investigation
