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Tesla seeks legal relief from California over possible suspension of operations

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Tesla seeks legal relief from California over possible suspension of operations

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  • Tesla is suing California after the state’s DMV found it engaged in false advertising of its Autopilot software.
  • California regulators had threatened to suspend Tesla’s license to sell cars in the state for 30 days.
  • Federal agencies, including NHTSA, are also investigating Tesla’s driver-assistance systems for safety risks and advertising.

Tesla is suing California over California regulators’ finding that the company falsely advertised its cars, including its once-popular Autopilot software.

The lawsuit, filed Feb. 13 in California Superior Court in Los Angeles County, challenges the California Department of Transportation’s December 2025 finding that Tesla violated the state’s Deceptive Advertising Act by portraying its cars equipped with Autopilot software as capable of fully autonomous driving.

The California DMV announced on February 17 that Tesla was following a directive to stop using the term “Autopilot” in marketing its vehicles in the state. The agency announced at the time that under the agency’s December 2025 ruling, the Silicon Valley electric car maker risks having its California dealer and manufacturer licenses, which are required to sell cars in the state, suspended for 30 days.

The California DMV said in a Feb. 17 statement that Tesla had already amended its use of the term “fully autonomous” to clarify that cars equipped with the system still require human driver supervision.

The agency did not respond to requests for comment on the Tesla lawsuit.

Tesla also did not respond to requests for comment about the lawsuit or the agency’s ruling.

In case you missed it: Tesla moves full self-drive to subscription. What does that mean?

Why was Tesla being pursued by advertising?

Tesla has long been criticized for promoting its “Autopilot” and “fully self-driving” software systems.

Federal and state regulators have accused the company of falsely advertising to consumers that its cars were capable of fully driving themselves.

The California DMV’s lawsuit against Tesla dates back to May 2021. Since 2016, the state has asked Tesla to stop using “Autopilot” in its advertising.

California DMV Director Steve Gordon said in a statement that the department is “pleased to have taken the necessary steps to ensure Tesla remains compliant with California consumer protections.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has also launched multiple investigations into the company’s driver-assistance software systems, including an ongoing investigation launched in October over allegations that Teslas in fully self-driving mode violated traffic safety laws. Previous federal investigations also investigated whether Tesla’s Autopilot system may have exacerbated behavioral safety risks for human drivers by compromising the effectiveness of driver supervision.

Other agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Securities and Exchange Commission, have also previously investigated Tesla’s advertising practices.

Michael Brooks, executive director of the Washington-based Center for Auto Safety, which advocates for stricter regulations, said in a statement provided to USA TODAY that California’s decision to backtrack on the idea of ​​suspending Tesla’s license is “just the latest evidence that neither federal nor state authorities are able to act in a timely and effective manner” to ensure car buyers are not seduced by “deceptive auto marketing.”

What does Tesla say about its “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving” systems?

Tesla has decided to discontinue its Autopilot system, which has been at the center of federal and California investigations for years. The company announced in January that it was moving its Full Self-Drive software to a subscription model.

Critics of the company’s decision pointed out that CEO Elon Musk’s latest compensation package included an operational milestone of 10 million FSD subscriptions.

Tesla says in the instruction manual for Model 3 cars with Full Self-Driving that, “Like other Autopilot features, Full Self-Driving (with Supervision) requires an attentive driver and presents a series of progressive warnings that require driver action.”

Can Tesla cars be fully self-driving?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration classifies autonomous driving into six levels. According to the California Learning Resource Network, Tesla’s fully self-driving cars are generally considered capable of Level 2 autonomy, which NHTSA says means “the system provides continuous assistance with both acceleration/braking and steering while the driver remains fully engaged and alert.”

“Despite the name ‘Full Self-Driving,’ Tesla FSD is not a Level 5 self-driving system,” the website said in a February 2025 post. “At this time and as of this writing, it is generally considered to be a Level 2 system with advanced capabilities that approximate Level 3, but do not fully meet that requirement.”

Why is California important to Tesla?

California is the largest electric vehicle market in the United States.

More than 26% of new cars sold in California last year were electric models, according to the Automotive Innovation Coalition, which works with most major automakers in Washington. The next state with the highest total was Colorado, with electric vehicles accounting for 23.13% of new vehicle sales, according to the group.

Tesla sold 169,650 electric vehicles in California in 2025, according to the state Energy Commission. That compares with Cox Automotive’s U.S. sales of 589,160 EVs last year.

US men’s hockey team captured on Air Force plane heading for President Trump’s visit to the White House

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US men’s hockey team captured on Air Force plane heading for President Trump’s visit to the White House

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After the Air Force drove the U.S. men’s hockey team to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, the team visited the White House and posed for a photo with President Donald Trump ahead of the February 24 State of the Union address.

The visit followed a call Sunday night from President Trump inviting him to speak after his team won gold for Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

“At the request of the President,” the players boarded an Air Force C-32 aircraft belonging to the 89th Airlift Wing from Miami to the Maryland base on Feb. 24, the Air Force told USA TODAY in a statement.

“Supporting a mission like this requires careful planning, coordination, and a team of highly trained experts ready to take immediate action anywhere in the world. Our crews are ready to execute any mission given to us in support of our nation’s priorities,” the statement said.

Hockey players lined up in the Oval Office

Social media videos posted by administration officials showed the team visiting the White House and lining up to pose for photos in the Oval Office. After the Olympics ended on February 22nd, the team departed from Milan.

According to reports, five players from the men’s team did not visit.

The U.S. women’s hockey team was also invited to the White House, but the players declined the invitation, saying in a statement that they had other “commitments.” Trump joked in a call with the men’s team that he would “probably be impeached” if he didn’t extend a similar invitation to the women’s team.

Florida Panthers star Matthew Tkachuk posted a photo to his Instagram Story of the team posing in front of a military jet on the tarmac. Another team member, Dylan Larkin, posted a photo of goalie Connor Hellebuyck holding a gold medal next to the “Secretary of Defense” insignia on the plane.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said on the same day that President Trump called him two nights ago and told him the entire team would be invited to the State of the Union address.

“Somehow we’ll get some hockey players tonight,” Johnson said.

Epstein survivor who attended SOTU speech demands release of all files

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Epstein survivor who attended SOTU speech demands release of all files

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Some of the most vocal victims of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse will be among the hundreds of guests watching President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address.

More than a dozen women said at a Feb. 24 press conference that they would continue to return to the Capitol until all documents collected by the Justice Department about Epstein are released as required by law.

The ministry released more than 3 million files in late December and late January, but withheld more than 3 million files and blacked out much of the information in the released files. The Epstein Transparency Act, a bill passed by Congress late last year, required the release of all documents and allowed the redaction of identifying information about victims.

President Trump initially rejected attempts to release the documents, saying during his campaign that they should be made public. He signed the bill after it passed the House and Senate with veto-proof majorities and has since argued that the country should move on from Epstein.

Epstein, who is accused of assaulting 1,000 women and girls, committed suicide in prison in 2019, a month after he was arrested on federal sex trafficking charges.

more: Epstein defendants say Pam Bondi has ‘turned her back on survivors around the world’

More than a dozen Democratic politicians invited survivors as guests at the State of the Union.

Rep. Jamie Raskin, a Maryland Democrat and the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, and Rep. Suhas Subramanyam of Virginia will bring in Mr. Skye and Amanda Roberts, the brother-in-law and sister-in-law of Epstein’s accuser Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who committed suicide last year.

“Today is a monumental day. Today we say to this administration and the people that survivors deserve to be met,” Amanda Roberts said at a news conference hours before her speech, adding that she expected President Trump to say it’s time to move forward again. “Don’t take your eyes off us. Don’t take your eyes off Virginia. And don’t leave survivors behind again.”

Ms. Giuffre’s decision to sue Mr. Epstein and his ex-girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell, led to other women coming forward and a federal investigation. Maxwell is serving a 20-year federal prison sentence for sex trafficking charges related to her relationship with Epstein.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York invited Marina Lacerda, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York invited Dani Bensky.

Democrats joined survivors in pressuring the Justice Department to release more documents related to the government’s investigation.

“Those in power will be held accountable, and we will not rest until that happens,” Schumer said at an afternoon press conference.

California Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna, a co-sponsor of the bill that forced the Justice Department to release the Epstein files, said in a statement that he invited Haley Robson as a way to “bring accountability to the Epstein ranks.”

Some Democratic lawmakers boycotting the speech called on survivors to attend without them.

Washington Rep. Pramila Jayapal, who invited Marie Chartouni, said at a news conference that it was important for survivors to be present to show the country still cared about the Epstein file.

Rep. Maxine Dexter, R-Ore., who plans to use the time to address constituents, said in a statement that survivor Lisa Phillips’ “appearance will send a clear message that Epstein survivors will not be silenced and those in power will not be protected. Our government is accountable to the people it serves.”

“I plan to come back again and again until the entire Epstein file is released, because without full transparency, accountability is impossible,” Phillips said at a news conference. “We’re not going to go away. We’re not going to disappear into silence.”

How to wash windows according to experts

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How to wash windows according to experts

sharon brand wine
|America Today

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 soap 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 is 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.

Watch the State of the Union Address Live

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Watch the State of the Union Address Live

The State of the Union address will be held across the street from the National Mall, immediately after President Donald Trump’s first formal State of the Union address in his second term.

The event, sponsored by MeidasTouch, MoveOn Civic Action and other community organizing groups, begins at 8 p.m. ET and is aimed at countering this year’s major presidential addresses.

It will begin an hour before Trump is scheduled to speak, and will include at least 30 House members and senators who will skip the president’s address. The program includes victims of Jeffrey Epstein’s abuse, families affected by immigration crackdowns, laid-off public health workers, and Americans struggling with rising costs.

The event is one of two trying to get attention from Capitol Hill. “State of the Swamp,” headlined by actor Robert De Niro, will also take place at the same time as the speech.

Watch the State of the Union Address broadcast live at the beginning of this article.

State of the Union live updates: What time will President Trump speak tonight? How to watch

What time is the 2026 State of the Union address?

President Trump is scheduled to deliver the State of the Union address on February 24th at 9pm ET. Coverage of the event will run from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM ET. USA TODAY will livestream our coverage both here and on our YouTube channel.

Meghan McCain calls Candace Owens’ video series about Erica Kirk ‘evil’

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Meghan McCain calls Candace Owens’ video series about Erica Kirk ‘evil’

Right-wing influencer Candace Owens is facing backlash for her upcoming series about Erica Kirk, the wife of murdered conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Owens and Erika Kirk met privately two months ago, presumably to clear the air, but Owens continues to push conspiracy theories about the circumstances surrounding the murder of Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed at a Turning Point USA event in Utah on September 10.

After his death, Erika Kirk became CEO of the conservative youth activist organization her husband founded in 2012.

Owens continues to question the accuracy of Kirk’s account of the days leading up to her death, most recently in a letter to Erika Kirk that she read on her podcast two weeks ago.

State of the Union: Get your card! Play State of the Union Bingo.

“Charlie’s Bride” series debuts on February 25th

On February 24th, Owens posted on social media a teaser trailer for the series “Charlie’s Brides: Investigation Series,” scheduled to air on February 25th. The 1 minute 42 second video begins with the news of Kirk’s death. Then there’s a video of Erica Kirk showing her actions as CEO of Turning Point USA, then hinting at some sort of cover-up and mentioning Israel and “Zionists.”

It didn’t take long for a backlash to arise online. Television personality Meghan McCain wrote in a post on X that the act was “pure, unadulterated…evil. Who in the name of God would subject a woman whose husband was brutally murdered to go through this for the whole world to see? I am so upset by this and I am so sorry that Erica and her family had to go through this.”

“What would Charlie say about this?” posted Seth Dillion, CEO of the Babylon Bee, a conservative news satire site. In one post about X, he retweeted a post by Daily Wire founder Ben Shapiro that said, “@RealCandaceO is evil.”

Erika Kirk will be one of President Donald Trump’s guests at the State of the Union on Tuesday, February 24, according to a post on X by White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt.

Mike Snyder is a national trends news reporter for USA TODAY. You can follow him on Threads, Bluesky, and X, and email him at: mike snyder & @mikegsnider.bsky.social & @mikesnider & msnider@usatoday.com.

Topo Chico Mineral Water may not be available on U.S. store shelves. Here’s why:

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Topo Chico Mineral Water may not be available on U.S. store shelves. Here’s why:

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It may be difficult to find Topo Chico Mineral Water in stores this year.

Coca-Cola, the owner and manufacturer of Topo Chico, said in a statement obtained by USA TODAY on February 24 that the sparkling mineral water is “temporarily unavailable” in the United States. Coca-Cola said it is currently upgrading its Topo Chico facility and production at its mineral water source in Mexico.

Traditional Topo Chico mineral water will not be available for some time, but other Topo Chico products will remain in stores, the statement said.

The facility renovations come less than a year after Coca-Cola recalled Topo Chico mineral water bottles shipped to five states due to possible bacterial contamination. The product, which was recalled in June 2025, has been removed from shelves at 40 retail stores across Arizona, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas, USA TODAY previously reported.

Are you a fan of sparkling water? Here’s what you need to know about Topo Chico availability in the US

Taste test: Bubly releases 3 new flavors of “Super Mario Galaxy”. I tried it.

When will Topo Chico start disappearing from store shelves?

As of February 24th, consumers may have already noticed that Topo Chico Mineral Water is becoming harder to find.

Why is Topo Chico not available in the US?

Topo Chico mineral water is “temporarily unavailable” in the United States as Coca-Cola upgrades equipment and production at its Mexican water source, the beverage company said in a statement.

When will Topo Chico be available again in the US?

Coca-Cola hopes to bring Topo Chico back to U.S. stores “later this year,” according to a statement.

Where does Topo Chico’s water come from?

According to Coca-Cola, the mineral water that makes up Topo Chico comes from Topo Chico Spring, located at the foot of Cerro del Topo Chico Mountain in Monterrey, Mexico. Mineral water has been sourced from this special spring since 1895.

Greta Cross is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Story ideas? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.

Trump is OK with Irish golf ballrooms, but must help save snails

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Trump is OK with Irish golf ballrooms, but must help save snails

Trump International Golf Club on the west coast of Ireland is building a banquet hall that can accommodate 320 guests.

Conor Humphries and Padraig Halpin
|Reuters

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DUBLIN, Feb 24 (Reuters) – The Council of Ireland on Tuesday approved plans by the family of U.S. President Donald Trump to build a ballroom at a golf course in the west of Ireland, subject to the condition that it come up with a plan to help protect the small snails that live on the property.

The Trump International Golf Club in Doonbeg on the West Coast applied in December to build a ballroom that could seat 320 people, and Trump’s son Eric told the Sunday Independent it would be “the greatest ballroom in the country.”

But environmentalists objected that more steps needed to be taken to improve the status of the rare Vertigo angustia snail, which is protected by the European Union’s Directive on Habitats for the Maintenance or Restoration of Rare Species.

more: Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg rumored to be listed as host of Amgen Irish Open

Clare County Council planners granted planning permission subject to 14 conditions, including that the golf club submit plans to support snail conservation and monitoring before work begins.

The Irish Environment Society had argued that no new permission would be granted until a court order relating to the course’s original 1999 plans requiring the rare snail’s status to be “maintained or improved” was satisfied.

Several other local organizations have written in support of the planned banquet hall, citing potential employment opportunities at the resort, which would employ 300 people during the peak summer season. Many locals believe President Trump secured their livelihood when he purchased the course in 2014.

more: Mike Pence has a deep love for Ireland. Not fully rewarded

According to the plan, the new ballroom will have an area of ​​1,240 square meters, a small portion of the 8,360 square meters of ballroom planned for the White House. President Trump stayed in a hotel 300 kilometers (180 miles) from the capital, Dublin, during an official visit to Ireland in 2019.

Upon taking office, he placed the Trump Organization in a trust controlled by his children, but he remains the beneficiary.

In 2020, President Trump was denied a planning permit to construct a seawall to protect the course from coastal erosion because planners were not satisfied that the proposed development would not negatively impact the dune habitat at the site.

Martin Short’s daughter Katherine Hartley Short dies at 42

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Martin Short’s daughter Katherine Hartley Short dies at 42

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Martin Short’s eldest daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, has passed away. She was 42 years old.

Short’s representatives confirmed the news to USA TODAY in a statement on Tuesday, February 24, asking for privacy for the family.

“It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of Catherine Hartley Short,” the statement said.

“The Short family is devastated by this loss and requests privacy at this time,” the statement continued. “Catherine was loved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought to the world.”

TMZ was first to report the news. USA TODAY contacted the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office for more information.

A Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson told USA TODAY on Feb. 24 that on Feb. 23 at approximately 6:41 p.m., “officials responded to a report of a shooting” at a Hollywood Hills address associated with Hartley-Short and identified “a female, approximately 41 years old,” who had died.

Ms. Short’s daughter graduated from New York University in 2006 and earned a master’s degree from the University of Southern California School of Social Work in 2010. She is a licensed clinical social worker with a private practice in Los Angeles, specializing in adoption, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, grief and loss, suicidality, and relationship difficulties.

While studying for her master’s degree in social work, Hartley-Short led group and individual therapy sessions for veterans diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. She then worked for four years at UCLA’s Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital.

Her mother, Short’s late wife Nancy Dolman Short, passed away in August 2010 after a battle with ovarian cancer.

Short revealed on Conan in 2019 that none of his children wanted to go into show business, but said, “I pushed them. I wanted them to go into show business.”

Short and Dolman also had two sons, Oliver Patrick and Henry Hayter. They adopted all three children.

BBB Reveals 5 Home Habits to Spot Problems Early

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BBB Reveals 5 Home Habits to Spot Problems Early

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  • Regular home maintenance can prevent costly repairs, improve safety, and protect your investment.
  • Major maintenance areas include lawn care, roof inspections, air duct cleaning, plumbing checks, and more.
  • The Better Business Bureau recommends hiring trusted professionals for specialized tasks.

Regular home maintenance does more than just keep your home looking its best. This can help you avoid costly repairs, improve safety, and protect one of the largest investments most consumers will make. The Better Business Bureau recommends several important steps homeowners can take to prevent problems and keep their properties in good condition.

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, ongoing maintenance can reduce allergens, prevent illness, and lower the risk of accidents. It also helps homeowners identify the need for repairs early, long before they become costly problems. Many people use seasonal checklists to stay organized throughout the year, while others turn to cleaning and maintenance services if they need extra help.

keep the lawn clean

A well-maintained lawn increases curb appeal and helps deter pests like snakes and rodents. Lawn care typically includes landscaping, regular maintenance, and maintaining sprinkler and irrigation systems. If necessary, our experts can help you manage these tasks safely and efficiently.

Please check the roof

Roofs are affected by wind, rain and debris. BBB recommends inspecting your roof for missing shingles, leaks, or other damage several times a year, especially after a storm. Homeowners can also prevent damage by cutting back dead and hanging branches and clearing away debris. If a problem occurs, a professional roofing contractor can help with repairs or replacements.

Keep air ducts clean

Homeowners should schedule air duct cleaning every three to five years. However, if there are signs of mold, pests, or excessive dust, you should plan on cleaning sooner. Clean ducts improve heating and cooling efficiency, extend the life of your HVAC system, and further reduce your energy costs. A trained HVAC technician can perform this task.

Beware of roofing scams. The Better Business Bureau can help you spot the signs.

Check for plumbing problems

Regular plumbing checks can help homeowners catch leaks early. BBB suggests identifying reputable plumbers through recommendations from friends and neighbors and checking their ratings and BBB certifications on BBB.org. Having a trusted plumber’s contact information on hand can be especially helpful in an emergency.

Consider installing an alarm system

Alarm systems provide extra peace of mind and protect your valuables when no one is home. Homeowners can explore a wide range of security options to find the system that best fits their needs.

Whether homeowners choose to perform maintenance themselves or hire help, BBB recommends working with trusted professionals, especially for specialized tasks. Consumers can search BBB.org to find accredited businesses that meet high standards of integrity and transparency.

For more tips and guidance for homeowners, visit BBB.org/HomeMaintenance.

Home Warranty Exclusions: What is not covered by a home warranty?

BBB’s Business Directory includes profiles with verified reviews and complaint history to help you find trustworthy businesses. You can also file a complaint or submit a customer review at BBB.org/ScamTracker. To investigate or report a scam, visit BBB.org/AvoidScams.

Jan Diaz is president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Northern Indiana, which serves 23 counties. Contact the BBB at 800-552-4631 or visit: BBB.org.

Here are the new odds for a duty refund or dividend check:

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Here are the new odds for a duty refund or dividend check:

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The conversation about refunds has been reverberating across the country since the U.S. Supreme Court reversed many of President Donald Trump’s import tariffs in a Feb. 20 ruling.

A Feb. 23 report from the nonpartisan Tax Foundation said these tariffs would amount to about a $1,000 tax increase per U.S. household in 2025.

Now, can consumers expect to get most of that money back?

We asked several customs experts and the answer was a resounding “no.”

Here’s the problem. No matter how much of a burden these tariffs placed on American household budgets, consumers did not pay them themselves. The importer paid the price. Ultimately, costs were absorbed by many parties, including exporters, importers, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers.

“Consumers are not importers, so they have no legal claim for refunds,” said Stephen Cates, a financial analyst at Bankrate. “They just bought the product.”

But U.S. retailers may still find a way to return some of the huge tariff refunds to customers when they arrive.

Businesses are lining up to get tariff refunds

The reason Americans are talking about tariff refunds is because American companies are lining up to get tariff refunds. On February 23, shipping giant FedEx filed a lawsuit seeking to recover the duties it paid under the policy, which was struck down by a high court.

The case followed a Supreme Court ruling. In the months leading up to the decision, thousands of other companies filed lawsuits to recover their share of the estimated $175 billion in import taxes collected by the federal government.

Government officials said in court filings that they would proceed with refunds if the tariffs were lifted.

Observers are now predicting a flood of new lawsuits in the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling. Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote in a dissent that the refund process “is likely to be chaotic.”

“It doesn’t seem like the Trump administration is going to facilitate that process,” said Alex Jacques, director of policy and advocacy at the progressive group Groundwork Collaborative. “The mechanics of getting that money back to consumers is even more complex.”

But for those companies that paid the tariffs, at least a paper trail remains.

“Refunds for overpayments, like any other tax refund, will go to the person or entity that legally paid them,” said Erica York, vice president of federal tax policy at the Tax Foundation. “The government has these records.”

Refund of customs duties to consumers? “Infinite” opportunities.

Congress could also send tariff refund checks to consumers who paid taxes indirectly when they purchased more expensive products. But customs experts said the process would be far more cumbersome.

“It’s very unlikely that that will happen,” Bankrate’s Cates said.

“You think of companies like Costco,” he said. “How many millions of people bought these products last year? There’s no way you can logically imagine an operation that would give back $5, $10 to 10 million households. It’s impossible.”

Trump administration officials appear to agree.

In remarks at the Dallas Economic Club shortly after the Supreme Court’s decision, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent predicted that the tariff refunds were unlikely to reach consumers, saying, “I felt the American people were not going to understand it.”

Retailers may offer voluntary tariff rebates

There may be another way.

Some rate watchers predict that retailers will launch a voluntary campaign to pass rate costs back to customers.

“Companies announced tariff increases to consumers,” said Scott Linthicum, an economist at the libertarian Cato Institute. “Thousands of emails like this were sent last year. There were a lot of small and medium-sized businesses, but there were also large corporations as well.”

Linthicome said that if the tariff refunds were sent to U.S. companies, it was not difficult to imagine the companies returning some of the funds to customers through tariff refund sales, retail credits or “checks in the mail for the price increases they imposed.”

Linthicum said retailers may offer tariff refunds under pressure from customers armed with old emails about tariff increases and the tariff premium on their receipts.

“Some companies are going to really piss off customers who are basically asking, ‘Hey, they charged me an extra $50. Where’s my money?'” Linthicum said.

Leading Democratic lawmakers, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, have called on the Trump administration to refund tariffs to American families in response to the court ruling. Mr. Pritzker called for $1,700 for every family in the state.

So what happens to the $2,000 customs dividend check?

These demands build on the much-touted $2,000 tariff dividend checks that President Trump has repeatedly promised American families in 2025.

The idea behind the tariff rebates was to return some of the revenue from President Trump’s import taxes to low- and middle-income Americans.

An independent analysis has questioned whether there was enough customs revenue to cover the $2,000 dividend check. In light of the Supreme Court’s ruling, tariff experts say it is unlikely that U.S. consumers will receive tariff payments, refunds or rebates.

“Tasty rebate checks were never scheduled to be implemented and never will be,” said York of the Tax Foundation.

Tariff rebates would require an act of Congress, similar to the fiscal stimulus payments Congress authorized during the coronavirus pandemic.

Bankrate’s Kates said the chances of Congress passing the tariff dividend checks were “never high.” After the Supreme Court’s ruling, he said, “the bill has virtually no chance of passing Congress.”

Contributor: Bart Jansen, Reuters

Judge rules against Bert Jones’ Special Leadership Funding Commission

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Judge rules against Bert Jones’ Special Leadership Funding Commission

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Georgia gubernatorial candidate Rick Jackson has won his first victory after a judge granted a temporary restraining order against his opponent’s leadership committee, which raised campaign funds.

Jackson’s campaign has filed a lawsuit against Lt. Gov. Bert Jones, alleging that his current role allows his leadership committee to raise unlimited contributions to his campaign, while other candidates are restricted by campaign finance laws.

“A federal court today made clear that Bert Jones is not getting his own rulebook,” Jackson campaign spokesman Dave Abrams said in a statement. “Mr. Burt has already used his job to enrich his family, so it would be no surprise if he tried to use it to hang on to power. If he pushes through new laws to save himself, it’s a clear abuse of power, and the people of Georgia will hold him accountable.”

Jones Leadership Committee needs to cancel fundraising

The ruling, issued by U.S. District Judge Thomas Thrash of the Northern District of Georgia, requires the WBJ Leadership Committee to cease fundraising and spending for Jones’ campaign while the case proceeds in court. Campaign ads funded by the commission also must be canceled if paid by February 10, CBS News Atlanta reported.

The leadership committee may raise funds for general election-related activities and candidates throughout the year, but the committee chair must be the governor, lieutenant governor, or the party’s candidate for those positions. That means if someone holds office and is running for office, they can use funds from the leadership committee for their campaign.

Mr. Jones’ group can raise “unrestricted donations” that will allow it to create “a de facto second super-premium campaign committee for Lieutenant Governor Jones against Mr. Jackson and other candidates,” Mr. Jackson’s lawsuit alleges.

“Prior to the primary election, only the sitting lieutenant governor is permitted to form a leadership committee,” the complaint states. “Incumbent lieutenant governors can thus amass a political war chest of unrestricted contributions for their gubernatorial races, and use those unlimited funds to support their own candidacy and to attack their primary challengers. They have one hand, actually both hands, legally tied behind their back.”

Leadership committees are exempt from the Georgia Government Transparency and Campaign Finance Act, which caps contributions to candidates statewide at $8,400 for primary elections and $4,800 for runoff elections.

Other candidates tried it first

Mr. Jackson and his team were not the first adversaries to go after Mr. Jones over campaign finance.

Safe Affordable Georgia filed a lawsuit in December on behalf of Secretary of State and gubernatorial candidate Raffensperger, asking a judge to allow the political action committee to operate like Jones’ leadership committee. The PAC could work with Raffensperger’s campaign, which was previously prohibited.

Attorney General Chris Carr and his team also filed a lawsuit in early 2025 to bar Jones from using a leadership committee in his gubernatorial race.

Other legal challenges failed until Mr. Jackson won an interim order.

When Jackson’s lawsuit was filed, a Jones campaign spokesperson told CBS News Atlanta, “This foolish lawsuit has already been tried and failed twice by non-Trump candidates in this campaign, and will fail a third time.” “It’s not really surprising that the gang of con artists surrounding Rick Jackson convinced him to waste more money.”

Jones gains new support in gubernatorial race during President Trump’s visit

President Trump visited Rome, Georgia last week and doubled down on his support and support for Jones in the gubernatorial race. The president has been keeping a close eye on Georgia over controversy over whether Georgia’s 2020 election was stolen, leading to an FBI raid on a Fulton County election hub earlier this year.

Mr. Trump endorsed Mr. Jones before Mr. Jackson ran, and on Thursday said Mr. Jones had his “complete and complete support.”

Mr. Jackson remains aligned with the president, saying he is a strong defender of the Second Amendment and tough on immigrants.

Mr. Jackson was endorsed by Newt Gingrich on Tuesday, and recent Quantus Insights polls have the candidate leading by a wide margin.

According to the poll, one-third of Republican voters have not yet chosen a primary candidate, with Jackson winning 32.6% of likely voters, followed by Burt Jones with 16.9% and Brad Raffensperger with 8.2%.

Eileen Wright is an Atlanta Connect reporter for USA Today’s Deep South Connect team. X Find her at @IreneEWright or email her at ismith@usatodayco.com.

Is there more snow in the weather forecast? A snowstorm may be occurring.

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Is there more snow in the weather forecast? A snowstorm may be occurring.

Following the snowstorm, if future forecasts are correct, there will be little relief from the winter weather in the Northeast, which is in trouble.

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If future forecasts are correct, the beleaguered Northeast will have little relief from the winter weather.

After more than two feet of snow fell in some states, the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center announced that the major winter storm was heading northeast, moving away from the United States and along Canadian waters on the morning of February 24th. Gusty winds will remain in the northeast until dissipating during the day.

However, forecasters say the area is still not completely covered in snow.

AccuWeather said in its Feb. 24 online forecast that “more snow is possible across the Northeast this week, and many regions will start digging snow from the blizzard.”

First, the clipper system

First, a clipper storm will move across the Great Lakes on Tuesday, February 24th and Wednesday, February 25th, spreading a band of snow from northern Minnesota to New England.

Areas farther south, including Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City, could see snow mixed with rain as the storm moves through the region.

The weather service announced that as the system moves eastward Tuesday night into Wednesday, Feb. 25, heavy snow will cease across the Great Lakes and snow showers will spread across the northern Mid-Atlantic and Northeast.

AccuWeather meteorologist Elizabeth Danko said in a Feb. 24 online forecast that “snow accumulations will not be as high as in the Northeast, but roads and sidewalks that have already been plowed could be covered in snow again, especially from Pennsylvania to Maine.”

The official Clipper snow forecast for New York City is for approximately 1 to 2 inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service.

Another blizzard in the second half of the week

Second, another storm later in the week will bring wintry weather to much of the Northeast, with snow north of the storm’s path and bands of sleet and freezing rain in the transition zone. However, the National Weather Service said in its Feb. 24 online forecast that significant uncertainty remains in the storm’s path.

According to AccuWeather, it is expected to reach the eastern United States late Thursday, February 26th into Thursday night. The presence of cold air in place could leave streaks of snow on the north side of the storm’s path. “In the colder southern reaches, precipitation could be a mix of rain, snow and ice,” Danko said.

Will there still be a lot of snow in early March?

Although we are still nearly a week away, the threat of additional snow, sleet, and freezing rain could exist from Monday, March 2 through Tuesday, March 3, from the mid-Mississippi Valley to the mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions, the National Weather Service announced.

“It remains unclear where exactly these types of precipitation will occur, as well as the magnitude of the total amounts,” the Bureau of Meteorology said in an online forecast dated Feb. 24.

Doyle Rice is a national correspondent for USA TODAY, focusing on weather and climate.

Who is House Speaker Mike Johnson?Louisiana congressman and Trump ally

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Who is House Speaker Mike Johnson?Louisiana congressman and Trump ally

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President Donald Trump is not the only one with a role to play in the State of the Union address.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican representing Louisiana, plans to welcome President Trump to the House of Representatives on February 24 for the State of the Union address. Addressing a joint session of Congress is required by the U.S. Constitution, which directs the president to keep lawmakers informed about the current state of the country and to propose legislative priorities.

Here’s what you need to know about Johnson and his role in the State of the Union address.

Mr. Johnson is a Republican and the 56th Speaker of the House of Representatives. He will be the first person from Louisiana to hold this position.

Mr. Johnson represents the state’s 4th Congressional District. He was first elected in 2016 and is currently serving his sixth term. Before being elected to Congress in 2016, Johnson was a lawyer and served in the Louisiana State Assembly from 2015 to 2017, according to the House. Mr. Johnson was elected Chair on October 25, 2023.

Mr. Johnson is an ardent supporter of Mr. Trump. But the slim Republican majority in the House of Representatives threatens to weaken it in the 2026 midterm elections, complicating her and Trump’s ability to pursue their legislative agenda.

more: Trump and the Republicans are (and are) close to losing the House majority

What is the Speaker of the House?

The Speaker represents the majority party in the House, directs business on the House floor, and manages the legislative process between the House, Senate, and White House. He is also the second-in-line successor to the president and vice president should they become incapacitated.

Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution gives the House of Representatives the power to choose the speaker and the power to impeach the president.

Midterm elections: Can President Trump avoid the “MAGA misfire” issue in the 2026 primaries?

What is the role of the Speaker of the House in SOTU?

The Speaker of the House plays an important role in delivering the executive branch’s annual address on national policy and setting out the administration’s policy agenda.

Under the Constitution, the executive, legislative, and judicial branches are independent branches of government power. For this purpose, the speaker must invite the president to the parliament and give a speech.

Prime Minister Johnson invited President Trump to deliver this year’s address in a letter on January 7th. Mr. Johnson posted a copy of the invitation sent to the president on X. In the speech, Johnson praised Trump’s “bold actions” and leadership.

Historically, speakers helped coordinate messages from party members in the lead-up to their speeches and on the day of the event, according to Georgetown University’s McCourt School of Public Policy. Speakers are not necessarily from the same political party as the president. But this year, both are Republicans.

That means Mr. Johnson will serve as the Congressional representative for the purposes and goals that Mr. Trump articulates in his speech. Lawmakers and Americans watching from home can expect to see Mr. Johnson, sitting with Vice President J.D. Vance on a raised podium behind the president, standing, clapping and expressing support for the agenda outlined by Mr. Trump, according to Rock the Vote. He has expressed his desire to implement Trump’s policies in Congress.

Is this Johnson’s first SOTU?

Johnson’s first State of the Union address as House speaker was in March 2024, delivered by then-President Joe Biden, and was the last address of Johnson’s term.

Johnson also attended in March 2025, where Trump spoke about his accomplishments since taking office in January and the challenges for the next four years. But the event took place less than two months after President Trump was inaugurated for his second term, so it wasn’t technically a State of the Union address. In other words, the Feb. 24 speech will be the first official State of the Union address of President Trump’s second term, and the first official State of the Union address of the current administration that Johnson will attend.

Robert Carradine’s cause of death – the actor was battling bipolar disorder

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Robert Carradine’s cause of death – the actor was battling bipolar disorder

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Robert Carradine, star of “Lizzie McGuire,” died after a long battle with mental illness, the actor’s family announced.

Carradine, known for his roles on the Disney Channel sitcom and classic sitcom “Revenge of the Nerds,” has died by suicide at the age of 71, Carradine’s brother, “Nashville” actor Keith Carradine, confirmed in a statement to USA TODAY on February 24.

Keith Carradine said: “We are saddened by the loss of this beautiful soul and would like to pay tribute to Bobby’s brave fight against bipolar disorder, which lasted nearly 20 years.” “We hope his journey can shine a light and encourage us to tackle the stigma around mental illness.”

Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is defined by the National Institute of Mental Health as a mental illness that causes abnormal changes in a person’s mood, energy, activity level, and concentration.

According to NIMH, an estimated 4.4% of U.S. adults experience this condition at some point in their lives, totaling approximately 11.3 million people.

Over the years, several celebrities have spoken out about their experiences with bipolar disorder, from “Star Wars” actress Carrie Fisher and rapper Kanye “Ye” West to Disney Channel alum Selena Gomez and pop singer Halsey.

Robert Carradine passes away: The ‘Lizzie McGuire’ and ‘Revenge of the Nerds’ star was 71 years old.

There are three types of bipolar disorder: bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, and cyclothymia, each with different symptoms.

Bipolar disorder I is defined by manic episodes lasting at least 1 week. A manic episode is described as a prolonged period of mood instability in which a person may experience an extreme increase in energy or euphoria, or may become depressed or unusually irritable.

In memory of Robert Carradine: Hilary Duff ‘deeply saddened’ by ‘Lizzie McGuire’ father’s death

As for the causes of mental health conditions, bipolar disorder appears to be a byproduct of “both genetic and environmental factors,” Robert Beach, a psychiatrist at Yale School of Medicine, previously told USA TODAY.

On the genetic side, chemical imbalances in the brain and family history of the disease may contribute to the development of this disorder. Environmental factors include childhood trauma, substance abuse, chronic stress, and changes in climate.

Experts say if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms that may be related to bipolar disorder, you should consult a mental health professional. There are a variety of treatments, mood stabilizers, and strategies that are known to help.

Contributor: Taijuan Moorman, USA TODAY

If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call 988 or chat online at any time of the day or night. The Crisis Text Line also provides free 24/7 confidential support via text message when people in crisis dial 741741.

When will Mexico be safe to travel to?

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When will Mexico be safe to travel to?

good morning! I’m Daniel de Visé from Daily Money.

An unprecedented “shelter-in-place” advisory has been issued to Americans following a military operation in Mexico that removed an alleged cartel leader.

When will it be safe to travel to Mexico?

Prices of weight loss drugs begin to drop

Ken Alltucker reports that weight loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy will soon become significantly cheaper for many customers.

But not everyone can enjoy the savings.

Will Democrats block President Trump’s tariffs?

President Donald Trump immediately revived his global tariff campaign after suffering a landslide defeat at the Supreme Court last week, ordering a new 15% import tax across the board.

But there’s a problem. The new tariffs are temporary, and any extension would clearly require support from Congressional Democrats.

📰 Other stories you can’t miss 📰

Daniel de Visse covers personal finance for USA TODAY. Daily Money analyzes complex consumer and financial news. Subscribe here.

Most say President Trump is becoming more erratic as he ages: Reuters/Ipsos poll

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Most say President Trump is becoming more erratic as he ages: Reuters/Ipsos poll

Jason Lang
|Reuters

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Six in 10 Americans, including a sizable portion of Republicans, think President Donald Trump is becoming more erratic as he ages, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll.

The six-day poll ended on February 23, the day before the 79-year-old president delivered his annual State of the Union address to Congress after a month of angrily scolding lawmakers and judges.

Overall, 61% of survey respondents said they described President Trump as having become “more unstable with age.” About 89% of Democrats, 30% of Republicans, and 64% of independents rate him this way.

White House press secretary Davis Ingle said the poll results were an example of a “false narrative of despair” and that Trump’s “sharpness, unparalleled energy and historic accessibility” set him apart from his predecessor, Democrat Joe Biden.

President Trump’s overall popularity has remained largely unchanged in recent months. About 40% of respondents in the latest poll approve of Trump’s performance as president, up 2 points from earlier this month. He started his term with a fairly high approval rating of 47%, but since April his approval rating has remained within 1-2 percentage points of current levels.

Aging of the political class

Most Americans believe that the country’s political leadership is generally too old.

Approximately 79% of poll respondents agreed with the statement that “elected officials in Washington, D.C., are too old to represent most Americans.” The average age of the U.S. Senate is approximately 64 years old, and the average age of the U.S. House of Representatives is 58 years old.

Democratic respondents were slightly more likely to want younger politicians, with 58% saying Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, 75, was too old to serve in government.

Trump returned to office in January 2025 at the age of 78, making him the oldest president in history to serve on Inauguration Day. Since then, he has announced new policies and proposals at a dizzying pace, imposing steep tariffs on imports from dozens of countries and deploying masked federal agents across the country to crack down on illegal immigration.

He has often taken an angry tone in public remarks, saying last week that he was “absolutely ashamed” that the conservative-leaning U.S. Supreme Court had ruled many of the country’s tariffs illegal. President Trump went on to reinstate a series of new tariffs, claiming they could be imposed under separate legal authority. In November, he denounced Democratic lawmakers who called on U.S. military personnel to defy illegal orders as traitors who could face execution.

Trump attacks Biden over age and mental strength

Trump won the 2024 presidential election in part because Biden was widely seen as having lost his mental acuity as he aged in office. Biden ended his term at age 82, older than any president in U.S. history. Trump is on track to break that record and will turn 80 in June.

In a February poll, only 45% of respondents said President Trump was “mentally alert and able to handle challenges,” down from 54% in a September 2023 Reuters/Ipsos poll.

Republicans continue to view the president as sharp, with 81% of Republicans rating him that way in the latest poll, little changed from the 2023 poll. Among Democrats, the share that believes the president can meet the challenge fell from 29% to 19%. Among those who don’t identify with either party, 36% think Trump has maintained his mental strength, down from 53% in 2023.

The latest Reuters/Ipsos poll, conducted online among 4,638 U.S. adults, had a margin of error of 2 percentage points.

Mexico considers legal action over Musk’s cartel claims

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Mexico considers legal action over Musk’s cartel claims

Sheinbaum said Musk’s claims, presented without evidence on his social media platform X, are absurd.

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Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo says her government is considering legal action after billionaire Elon Musk said drug cartels control the government.

At a Feb. 24 press conference, Sheinbaum said Musk’s claims, presented without evidence on his social media platform X, are ridiculous. Sheinbaum’s comments came days after Mexican authorities announced that the military killed wanted drug lord Nemesio Ruben Oseguerra Cervantes, also known as El Mencho, during a military operation in Mexico’s Jalisco state on February 22.

Sheinbaum, a member of the leftist party MORENA, told reporters, “We are considering whether to take legal action.” “Lawyers are looking into it. But the truth is, it’s people’s opinions that are important to me.”

Musk, a right-wing ally of President Donald Trump, said from his podium on February 23 that Sheinbaum was “just saying what the cartel bosses told him to do.” Musk, who has a net worth of more than $840 billion, was responding to a 2025 video in which Sheinbaum said a return to the drug war was not an option.

“Let’s just say their punishment for insubordination is a little worse than a ‘performance improvement plan’…” his X post read.

Spokespeople for Musk’s companies, including Tesla and SpaceX, did not respond to requests for comment.

Sheinbaum said claims about a government controlled by “narcogovierno,” or drug traffickers, are “ridiculous.”

“I don’t understand how they make something like this up,” she said. “I laugh when I read the commentators’ comments.”

Mexican officials said the military operation to capture Oseguerra Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation cartel, was carried out with support from U.S. military intelligence. Mexican authorities are trying to regain control in parts of the country after armed groups in several states began engaging in public violence, including gun battles and roadblocks.

Is the Rivian R2 a true rival to the Tesla Model Y? What’s in our early reviews?

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Is the Rivian R2 a true rival to the Tesla Model Y? What’s in our early reviews?

Rivian may be able to achieve its ambitious goals based on early reviews.

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  • The Rivian R2 is a mid-size electric SUV that is expected to be a major competitor to the Tesla Model Y.
  • The R2 is expected to start around $45,000 and offer more than 300 miles of range in all trims.

The Rivian R2 could be the most influential electric vehicle released in 2026 due to its segment and the brand’s advancements in the EV space in recent years.

Rivian’s R2 is a midsize electric SUV that sits below the R1S. Much of the R2’s hype is due to its pricing and specs teased by the automaker. It could compete directly with best-selling EVs like Tesla’s Model Y compact electric SUV.

R2 will officially arrive this spring, but some experts, influencers, and automotive industry luminaries have already experienced it before the general public. Here’s what people who have already driven the R2 are saying about this exciting new EV.

MotorTrend calls the R2’s ride quality “unmistakably Rivian”

MotorTrend’s first drive review of the R2 on February 10 called the ride “unmistakably Rivian.” For a driver who has never been behind the wheel of a Rivian, that’s a huge compliment.

Rivian’s driving profile is very specific, providing ride firmness and smoothness for a variety of terrain types. The automaker describes the R2 as an SUV “suitable for all kinds of adventures.” This reflects the inherent off-road capabilities of all Rivian vehicles.

In short, the Rivian EV is designed for roads less traveled, functioning as a daily driver while truly shining in off-the-beaten-path locations. MotorTrend points out that buyers “feel like they’re getting what they paid for” based on first-drive impressions. Prices are expected to start around $45,000, making it a true Model Y alternative in terms of affordability.

In case you missed it: Rivian unveils new R2 electric SUV with starting price of $45,000

Automotive influencer and YouTuber says R2 will be “agile and extremely capable”

Auto Focus, a popular automotive YouTube channel featuring Marques Brownlee, posted a first-drive review of the Rivian R2 on February 10th. The video has already racked up 1.2 million views, as Brownlee was one of the first drivers to take the R2 model on the road.

Brownlee said that “on paper specs” the R2 model “seems to hit all the bases.” The auto influencer says all R2 trims have a range of 300 miles, which is more than the range of the average base model EV under $50,000.

According to Brownlee, the Rivian R2 is fast and capable “even in its most basic version,” which is exactly what many car enthusiasts want from an EV. The auto influencer also pointed out that the size is similar to the Tesla Model Y.

Rivian R2 Thoughts Based on R1 Testing by USA TODAY Cars

USA TODAY Cars may not be able to drive the R2 yet, but the R1 has been thoroughly tested and reviewed. In testing, the R1 Quad Launch Edition proved to be surprisingly fast. Rivian’s software and unique user experience also stood out during testing.

Based on our R1 testing experience and R2 news, there are plenty of reasons (for some drivers) to be excited about the upcoming EV.

Should you buy a 2026 Rivian R2?

If you’re an average American driver who’s only ever owned gasoline and hybrid cars, the R2 may not be for you. If you’re ready for the unique benefits and obstacles that come with owning an electric vehicle, the R2 could be a game-changer.

First, Rivian is one of the few electric vehicle manufacturers that has proven that its vehicles can produce similar power and range to Tesla EVs. Moreover, the brand has created a niche market and its vehicle identity is rooted in its previous capabilities. Additionally, Rivian’s software and regular over-the-air updates put the brand in a unique position to compete with Tesla products.

The main advantages the Model Y has over the R2 are a longer production history and one of the best charging networks on the planet. Although the R2 has access to Tesla Superchargers, the charging experience designed for Tesla cars is difficult to replicate in other brands’ cars.

It’s too early to recommend the Rivian R2, but it’s certainly worth keeping an eye on once this nameplate is rolled out and more professionals are able to test it. In theory, its specs make it a replacement for the Tesla Model Y, but there’s still a lot to learn when this EV hits the roads.

Jack Hughes’ mother speaks about the impact of his phone call with President Trump on U.S. men’s hockey

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Jack Hughes’ mother speaks about the impact of his phone call with President Trump on U.S. men’s hockey

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Olympian Jack Hughes and his mother recently reacted to the virus outbreak between the U.S. men’s hockey team and President Donald Trump.

During a locker room conference call with the team, President Trump invited the players to attend the State of the Union address. He briefly mentioned the U.S. women’s hockey team, which also defeated Canada in overtime to win the gold medal at the Olympics, and said he had to invite them or he would be “impeached.” The men’s hockey team laughed when they heard their president’s statement.

“People out there are so negative and just trying to put people down and find reasons to create something out of almost nothing,” Jack Hughes told the Daily Mail.

“People are so negative about things. I think everyone in that locker room knows how much we support them and how proud we are of them. And I know they feel about us as much as we feel about them.”

Jack’s mother, Ellen Hughes, also addressed the backlash during an appearance on the Today Show. Ellen Hughes is also the mother of Team USA’s Quinn Hughes and a consultant for the U.S. women’s hockey team.

“These players, both male and female, can bring great unity to a group and a country,” said Ellen Hughes. “The people who support that don’t watch hockey, there are people who have politics on either side, and both the men’s and women’s teams are just concerned about that.”

A USA Hockey spokesperson said the women’s team received an invitation but will not be able to participate. They declined the president’s invitation.

“Due to timing and their academic and professional commitments after the Olympics, the athletes will not be able to participate,” the spokesperson said. “They are honored to participate and grateful for the recognition.”

Jack Hughes appears to have confirmed that he and his teammates will be in Washington for President Trump’s speech. “We’re very proud to represent the United States. If we have the opportunity to go to the White House and meet the president, we’re proud to be Americans and it’s very patriotic,” Hughes said.

Despite the backlash over the phone call with President Trump, Hughes’ mother said both athletes supported each other during their respective runs toward medals.

“If you look at what we see from the inside and see the dorm rooms and halls and flex floors that men and women share, the camaraderie and the synergy, the women rooting for the men, the men rooting for the women, that’s what it’s all about,” Hughes’ mother said.

“And other things that they can’t control. They care about humanity. They care about unity. They care about nationhood.”

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