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Mamdani, Trump, and the battle of malcontents in the 2026 midterm elections

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Mamdani, Trump, and the battle of malcontents in the 2026 midterm elections

Would you like to take over Greenland? Would you open a government-run grocery store? Politics in 2026 is not for the faint of heart.

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Consider yourself warned that politics in 2026 is not for the faint of heart.

As Americans grow increasingly dissatisfied with their government and the direction of the country, policy prescriptions once considered on the fringes are becoming part of the mainstream discussion.

Would you like to take over Greenland? Open a government-run grocery store?

This year’s midterm elections will test the efforts of courageous forces to corner both parties.

Consider President Donald Trump’s determination to abolish birthright citizenship, a doctrine dating back to 1790, and this month’s military invasion to take control of Venezuela and its oil reserves. He has never strayed far from his belief in tough tariffs as an economic panacea, which was at odds with Republican orthodoxy during his rise to political office.

As for the Democratic Party’s newest stars, New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani has vowed to tax the wealthy, freeze $1 million in rent, provide universal child care and arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for war crimes if he moves into Gotham.

“I was elected as a democratic socialist and I will govern as a democratic socialist,” Mamdani declared in his first speech as mayor, delivered in the winter cold after his inauguration on New Year’s Day. “I’m not going to abandon my principles for fear of being seen as radical.”

The midterm elections will help shape the debate that follows the 2028 presidential election.

The first cracks within the party over what the party should stand for, especially in the post-Trump era, are beginning to emerge over issues such as tolerance of white supremacist rhetoric and the definition of “America First.” The debate within the Democratic coalition is already large and noisy, dividing moderates in battleground states and progressives elated by Mr. Mamdani’s rocket-propelled victory in the nation’s largest city.

It seems natural to ask, “Will centrists be supported by either party?”

The rising tide of depression

Americans are feeling increasingly pessimistic about the current situation, and disagreements about what to do about it are deepening.

By December, a Gallup poll found that Americans were dissatisfied with the direction of the country by a 3-to-1 margin.

Confidence in the economy is also declining, despite strong growth and a record stock market. The Gallup Economic Confidence Index, which measures people’s views on the economy and its future, was at a whopping -33 by the end of the year, down nearly 20 points from the spring.

This is a recipe for political chaos that ignores the classic lines between Republicans and Democrats and between conservatives and liberals, especially among younger voters who have less history of support or loyalty to either party.

A Heartland/Rasmussen national poll released in November found that 52% of potential voters between the ages of 18 and 39 had a favorable impression of Mamdani. Among those who voted for Trump in 2024, 41% also liked Mamdani.

A majority of voters under 40, including both conservatives and moderates, supported the idea of ​​expanding Mr. Mamdani’s proposal to install government-run grocery stores in towns across America to curb rising food prices.

Adding to the sense of turmoil ahead is the fact that traditional centers of political influence, such as Congressional leaders, the Democratic National Committee and the Republican National Committee, have little say in where the nation’s politics are headed. Increasingly, the driving force is individual Paul, often succeeding in attracting voters’ attention through social media.

That will likely include Mr. Trump and Mr. Mamdani, who although politically diametrically opposed, have some things in common.

Both men are confident and charismatic, and are comfortable supporting controversial ideas, even within their own party. That may be one reason why the two struck such an unexpected chord when they gathered at the White House in November.

“It was a productive meeting,” Mamdani said afterward. “I look forward to helping him, not hurting him. It’s going to be a big help,” Trump promised.

Even though Mamdani called Trump a fascist and a tyrant, and Trump labeled him a “Jew-hater” and “100% communist lunatic.” At one point, Trump threatened to arrest Mamdani on unspecified charges.

It was the voters’ desire for change that allowed them to defeat the heirs of established political dynasties and launch unexpected political careers. In 2016, Trump ran as the Republican presidential candidate against former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, and nearly a decade later, Mamdani ran as the Democratic mayoral candidate against former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

don’t stop thinking about tomorrow

This year’s midterm elections are poised to be a watershed for American politics and political parties.

In the decade since Trump announced his White House campaign, he has reshaped the Republican Party’s image and reversed long-held views on trade, deficits and military alliances. His political followers, led by Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are seen as his likely successors.

But Republicans are beginning to envision a future after the 79-year-old Trump, perhaps one in which his grip will loosen.

As Democrats look ahead to the post-Trump era, the divisions have become quite public.

On the same day Mamdani won on a progressive platform, Democrats won gubernatorial races in New Jersey and Virginia with centrist candidates.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a liberal Democrat with pragmatic tendencies, was quick to dismiss the idea that Mamdani represented the new face of the Democratic Party. “I don’t think anyone is like that,” she said in an interview with USA TODAY. In the 2028 presidential election, she predicted there would be a large number of candidates, saying, “The face of the party… has to come out of the party.”

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Pelosi: “Democrats will definitely win the House of Representatives in 2026”

Representative Nancy Pelosi said Zoran Mamdani is not the face of the new Democratic Party. No one yet

And when Mamdani was sworn in publicly, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who had just reluctantly endorsed the former Queens congressman and fellow New Yorker, was absent.

Will the stamp of democratic socialism, already under radical attack by Republicans, undermine Democrats’ hopes of regaining control of the House (low bar) and even the Senate (high) in the midterm elections in 10 months?

Or will voters decry President Trump’s assertion of naked power over everything from curbing immigration to deploying the military to American cities? Are Democrats accusing this measure of dangerous authoritarianism?

Please keep an eye out for November as well.

Obamacare interest rate hike prompts Americans to take drastic measures

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Obamacare interest rate hike prompts Americans to take drastic measures

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Months after signing up for health insurance in mid-2025, Houston resident Mila Clark crunched the numbers and learned that the Affordable Care Act would no longer be an option in 2026.

The 36-year-old small business owner couldn’t find a plan as cheap as the $350 monthly insurance he had in 2025. The coronavirus-era subsidies that made Obamacare health insurance cheaper are set to expire in December, making premiums much more expensive for Clark and millions of others in 2026.

The additional costs were too great for Clark. In addition to high monthly insurance premiums, she spent hundreds of dollars each month on insulin, an insulin pump, a continuous blood sugar monitor, and medical appointments to treat her type 1 diabetes.

“I was spending over $1,000 a month just to stay alive,” said Clark, a health coach and diabetes advocate who runs the website Hungry Woman.

Clark married her partner Greg in a hastily planned courthouse ceremony on Dec. 1 so he could add her to his company’s health insurance plan instead of enrolling in an ACA plan.

“What’s frustrating to me is that we had to rush the plan,” Clark said. “We had this looming over our heads and the decision was life or death.”

Without the enhanced tax credits, which are set to expire at the end of 2025, the average cost for the 22 million Americans with subsidized ACA insurance would have more than doubled as of January, according to the health policy nonprofit KFF.

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office announced in December that an average of 3.8 million Americans are expected to lose health insurance by 2035 as enhanced subsidies expire. Other players, such as Clark, will likely receive coverage elsewhere.

In an election year, where affordability remains voters’ top concern, Congress continues to debate solutions to rising ACA health insurance costs.

On January 8, the House of Representatives voted to extend the enhanced subsidies for another three years. The Senate has already voted against expanding subsidies, so the bill is unlikely to pass. But discussions continue among some senators about a possible bipartisan solution to rising health care costs.

If adopted, CBO estimates that the House bill would increase the federal budget deficit by $80.6 billion by 2035.

With no legal solution in sight, consumers are cutting spending elsewhere to maintain their health insurance.

Wisconsin couple cuts household expenses, no vacation plans

Kelly Berry of Altoona, Wisconsin, and her husband are self-employed and do not have company health insurance. They have relied on Obamacare coverage for doctor visits, annual checkups, vaccinations and other preventive care.

In 2025, each had an individual “bronze” level insurance plan with a $7,500 deductible and a fully subsidized monthly premium. The enhanced subsidy will end in 2026, so you’ll pay a total of $2,300 per month for a plan with an $8,000 deductible. This is the amount that must be paid before most coverage begins.

“Going from zero to $2,300[a month]is a huge financial blow,” said Berry, 58, who works as a consultant and provides peer review services to small businesses.

They cut back on streaming services and cut back on Christmas spending. They probably won’t take vacations, and Berry won’t attend a work meeting scheduled in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Even if you reduce your household expenses, you may not be able to save enough to pay your monthly insurance premiums. She also believes entrepreneurs will think twice before leaving a company that has good health insurance. That means fewer people are starting small businesses, said Kelly, a former University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire business professor who taught market research and entrepreneurship.

“It’s not fair to punish people who are doing their best to maintain coverage and be accountable,” Berry said.

It’s empty when it says “Looking for unicorns”

Fariha Khandaker, a Chicago resident, is still looking for a health insurance plan that provides affordable doctor visits and prescription prescriptions.

“I’m looking for unicorns that don’t exist,” said Khandaker, a self-employed consultant and information technology project manager.

The lowest-tier plan costs $250 a month, but you’ll be charged a 50% coinsurance, she said. This is the percentage of your medical expenses that you must pay out of pocket. She visits a specialist twice a year to write prescriptions for chronic conditions. She was unsuccessful because it did not make financial sense for her to pay higher monthly premiums and spend more of her own money on receiving care.

Khandaker spent days researching health insurance options and was making calls before the Jan. 15 enrollment deadline. She’s not optimistic that she’ll find an affordable plan with good coverage.

She is also losing hope that Congress will find a solution.

“It’s hard to believe they’re letting it expire at a time when the cost of living and inflation are skyrocketing,” Khandaker said. “It’s really tough right now. My rent has gone up. When I go to the grocery store, I’m paying so much more. Now, the same goes for my medical bills (which are also going up).”

After the House vote on Jan. 8, advocates called on the Senate to pass a bill extending subsidies to consumers.

“Millions of Americans, especially young adults and families already facing rising health care costs, rely on these credits to maintain coverage and avoid paying medical bills,” said Christine McGuire, president and CEO of Young Invincibles, a nonprofit health and education advocacy organization.

Doctors prepare for the uninsured

Doctors and clinics that treat people without health insurance anticipate that many Americans will seek treatment after losing insurance.

Federally funded community health centers already care for about 1 in 5 Americans without health insurance. These centers, which are often located in rural areas, predict that an additional 1.9 million to 4.2 million uninsured patients will need care due to the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies and Medicaid cuts in the Republican 2025 Tax Cuts and Spending Act, according to the National Association of Community Health Centers.

Dr. Kyu Li, president and CEO of the Community Health Center Group, said about 1,800 of the country’s 17,000 community health centers will close due to the financial burden of increasing numbers of uninsured patients.

For people with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, delayed or missed treatment can be fatal. The Community Health Center Group estimates that 5,000 to 6,000 people could die as a result of Medicaid and ACA cuts.

“We are already in a very tough situation,” Lee said. “The impact on patients is immeasurable.”

Contact the reporter at alltuck@usatoday.com.

Matt LaFleur’s hot seat tops NFL playoff winners and losers

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Matt LaFleur’s hot seat tops NFL playoff winners and losers

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  • Matt LaFleur’s position with the Packers has been in the spotlight following Green Bay’s massive collapse in the NFL playoffs.
  • Caleb Williams led the Bears to the biggest playoff upset in franchise history.
  • The Rams outplayed the Panthers’ push, but Los Angeles’ secondary could be an issue.

Despite starting with a rematch doubleheader, the NFL playoffs opened with a bit of a surprise.

The Saturday afternoon slot in the wild card round is often filled with misfires, but there have been very few of them this year. The Los Angeles Rams were heavy favorites and favorites to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl, but they faced a legitimate challenge from the Carolina Panthers and had to regroup in the final minutes for a 34-31 victory. But the biggest thrill will come from the Chicago Bears. The Chicago Bears came back from a 21-3 deficit to defeat the rival Green Bay Packers, 31-27. This result would not only give Chicago its first postseason victory in 15 years, but it would go down as the greatest playoff upset in Bears franchise history.

Here are the biggest winners and losers from Saturday’s NFL playoff wild-card action.

winner

After the first half, it looked like the second-year signal handler was destined to spend an offseason plagued by unfounded questions about whether he could deliver in the last minute. That’s all for now. Williams orchestrated one of the best comebacks in franchise history, further entrenching the idea that the Bears were never the same. Williams often had to build on his own, as the run game that normally paces the offense fizzled, and Chicago’s game plan was derailed by a significant early deficit. Even if his consistency wasn’t perfect yet, he certainly thrived in those situations, showing off his unique status among passers with his incredible fourth-down heave. Taking the lead with a 25-yard scoring attack was a fitting exclamation point for Williams, who threw for 195 yards and two scores in the fourth quarter alone. No matter how Chicago’s season ends, this is the kind of night that makes you believe the campaign was a huge success, and it’s the kind of night that makes you feel like anything is possible under the current regime.

ben johnson

From the off-kilter execution of the offense to questionable game management early on, Johnson received a lot of attention for the Bears’ lackluster start-up. However, he will be given a reprieve after making a historic breakthrough for the series. Despite facing difficult situations that forced the offense to become one-dimensional, Johnson helped the Bears rediscover their explosive form in the second half, with the team scoring 25 points in the fourth quarter alone. There’s been a fair amount of luck involved in Chicago’s seven fourth-quarter comebacks this season, and Green Bay certainly opened the door with a few missteps along the way. Still, Chicago is used to living on the margins, and Johnson helped a young, inexperienced core grow quickly to get through these situations. At his inaugural press conference, he raised some eyebrows by saying, “It was kind of fun to beat Matt LaFleur twice a year,” but he accomplished that in his first year at the top.

Forget about the offensive Rookie of the Year. The Bears tight end is wrapping up his first pro campaign as the league’s most lethal first-year weapon. Loveland gained a game-high 137 yards on eight catches and a two-point conversion, repeatedly burning Green Bay on outbreak routes. The Michigan native became the first rookie tight end to gain 100 or more receiving yards in a playoff game since Keith Jackson in 1988, marking a streak of three straight games with at least six catches and 90 yards. A rare opposition threat, he is being eyed as one of the biggest breakout candidates league-wide in 2026.

Green Bay’s overtime loss to Chicago in Week 16 was sparked by a Packers receiver’s botched onside kick. You can’t blame him for the Packers’ loss this time. Dubs led Green Bay with 124 yards and a touchdown on eight catches. He stepped up several times and got important first downs as the offense lagged behind. Don’t be surprised if he withdraws a large amount of money within a few months when he is considered one of the most attractive options in a burgeoning receiver market.

He shouldn’t have to hear anymore about going without a touchdown as a rookie. The Packers’ first-round receiver finally found the end zone on a spectacular 23-yard catch-and-run in the fourth quarter, slipping past several defenders along the way. Golden capped off a dominant year with four catches for 84 yards. Better things and a bigger role are in store for him in his second year.

The final stat line – 24-of-42 for 304 yards with three touchdowns and one interception – was certainly much prettier than most of the actual plays that day. After a strong start, Stafford spent a good portion of the day either misfiring or struggling to find an answer against Carolina’s defense, and a finger injury suffered late in the first half seemed to exacerbate the problem. But with the Rams trailing by four points with three minutes remaining, Stafford completed 6 of 7 throws, increasing the offense for 71 yards and capping it off with a nice scoring shot to tight end Colby Parkinson. With things not going well on the perimeter, Stafford did the most significant damage by crushing the Cover 3 look the Panthers used in the opener, but for some reason came back late. It’s not the kind of effort a quarterback or his team wants to get back at, especially considering how volatile things were when Carolina applied pressure. But only a select few signal callers can pull themselves out of the predicament and deliver that result.

For a team that has spent a first-round draft pick on wide receivers every year, the former undrafted free agent was the driving force behind the Panthers’ aerial attack, which at times looked lackluster this season. Coker’s 134 receiving yards were not only a career high, but more than half of the Panthers’ total receiving yards (264 yards) in that category. The second-year wideout perfected Bryce Young’s go-ahead touchdown throw on a corner route late in the fourth quarter. His day wasn’t without mistakes, as Coker’s separation from Young in the first quarter led to an interception, deepening the Panthers’ early hole. Still, he looks like the perfect complement to offensive rookie of the year front-runner Tetailoa McMillan in Carolina’s passing game, which is expected to take off in 2026.

loser

matt lafleur

Before the game, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on Saturday that LaFleur and Packers leaders will meet after the season to discuss a contract extension, and that LaFleur’s contract is currently set to expire after next season. It’s no exaggeration to say that the current summit is bound to be a little more awkward. Green Bay’s late decline is at least somewhat understandable, given that a roster that was thought to have a shot at a title was crippled by injuries. But ending the losing streak at four and ending the regular season with a multi-faceted disaster against a rival is a devastating way to go. Jordan Love dominated Chicago with play-action from the start, and the offense scored a touchdown on each of its first three drives. Green Bay struggled from there, at times barely moving the ball. Yes, the defense and special teams also dwindled after halftime. But Lafleur also bears ultimate responsibility for these failures. Although his status as one of the NFL’s best play callers and offensive architects is impeccable, LaFleur has too often been at the center of these types of setbacks. Parting ways with a coach who is 76-40-1 and has made the postseason in six of seven seasons will probably not sit well with Packers president and CEO Ed Policy, who is in his first full offseason on the job. But as LaFleur said after the game, “This fight is going to hurt for a really, really long time.”

Brandon McManus

The Packers would not have collapsed if special teams didn’t play a prominent role. McManus missed two field goals and missed an extra point. It was a brutal outcome for a player who signed a three-year extension just 10 months ago.

After the game, McManus said, “It was an embarrassing performance…the most disappointing thing of my career to this point.”

Rams secondary

There were a myriad of problems with the team that seriously diminished its status as a viable Super Bowl threat. But while the penalties and special teams meltdowns should be easier to fix, despite the latter firing coordinator Chase Blackburn in late December, the back-end issues seem as pressing as ever, no matter how deep a theme they are. The return of standout safety Quentin Lake, who missed the regular season tilt against Carolina, didn’t make a dramatic difference to a group that faltered late, especially in terms of allowing big plays. Even on days when the Rams’ front office frequently dictated terms and wreaked havoc, the secondary was unable to live up to its responsibilities and now looms as a major liability in the divisional round.

Ikem Ekwonu

A brutal result for the Panthers’ left tackle who buckled under the bull rush of Rams rookie Josiah Stewart. Panthers coach Dave Canales said after the game that Ekwonu appeared to have suffered a “significant” knee injury, and Ekwonu was ejected. The 2022 first-round pick has a fully guaranteed fifth-year option in 2026. But the injury complicates his financial future, at least beyond that point.

Ben Johnson, Caleb Williams score impressive playoff wins

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Ben Johnson, Caleb Williams score impressive playoff wins

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  • The Chicago Bears defeated the Green Bay Packers 31-27 in an unlikely come-from-behind victory.
  • Chicago overcame an 18-point deficit and scored 28 points in the second half to advance to the NFC playoffs.
  • The Bears will face the Philadelphia Eagles or Los Angeles Rams in the next round.

Maybe this really is the year of the Chicago Bears.

That’s the only way to explain it. With coach Ben Johnson getting too cute for his own good too many times and QB Caleb Williams losing to Jordan Love, the Bears looked like they were heading into the offseason, trailing their biggest rival by 18.

But for a group that believes they’re in every game until the clock hits zero, no opponent’s lead is safe.

And who’s going to tell them different, especially after this incident?

“We understand this is 60 minutes of football,” Williams said after the Bears’ improbable 31-27 victory, the largest postseason upset in franchise history. “We understand who we are. We understand what this means to the city, we understand what this means to the organization, and we understand what this means to us.

“We keep going, we keep fighting, we keep fighting,” he said. “And when the clock hits zero, look up and see who won.”

Williams threw two touchdowns in the fourth quarter and the Bears defeated the Green Bay Packers 28-3 in the second half to advance to the NFC divisional round. The country’s neighbor to the north was also hit for the second time in three weeks.

The Bears will play either the Philadelphia Eagles or the Los Angeles Rams next weekend.

Comeback Bears defy expectations again with 25 points in 4th quarter

The Bears lived a charmed life all season, converting six times in the fourth quarter during the regular season. That includes a Dec. 20 game against the Packers at Soldier Field, which they won in overtime from a 10-point deficit with five minutes left in regulation.

This time, their luck seemed to have run out, due in large part to Johnson’s questionable play calling.

The Bears converted early in the second quarter going for a 4-2 lead. Three plays later, Chicago was playing No. 4 and No. 6 at the Green Bay 40. Johnson aimed again, but was quickly burned as Williams was picked off by Carrington Valentine.

The Packers continued to score, taking a 14-3 lead.

On the next possession, the Bears found themselves in a fourth-down situation again. And Johnson tried again. And the Bears failed to convert again.

Green Bay scored on its next possession to take a 21-3 lead.

Chicago hasn’t been able to overcome a double-digit deficit this year. But the Bears, well, nothing fazes them.

The defense found a way to confuse Love, who received two delay penalties when he had only been penalized once previously. And Johnson and Williams made all the right plays, and the Bears scored on four of their five second-half possessions.

The fans at Soldier Field got into it, too, and seemed to rattle Brandon McManus on a key field goal attempt. McManus fumbled and the Packers needed a touchdown on their final possession.

They couldn’t do that, and the Bears were the winners again. They may not have the best player in the NFC. They may not even be the best team. But they believe in themselves and that’s all that matters.

Follow USA TODAY sports columnist Nancy Armour on social media @nrarmour.

Who is on the U.S. Olympic figure skating team? How to read the roster

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Who is on the U.S. Olympic figure skating team? How to read the roster

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  • The U.S. Olympic figure skating team is selected based on a series of initiatives, not just the U.S. Championships.
  • Ilya Marinin, Amber Glenn, Alisa Liu, Isabeau Levit, Madison Chock and Evan Bates are considered the locks of the team.
  • Some spots are still available, especially in the men’s and pairs disciplines
  • U.S. Figure Skating plans to announce roster Sunday at 2 p.m.

ST. LOUIS — The U.S. Figure Skating Championships are over, and now the part everyone’s anticipating begins. Who will be representing the 2026 Winter Olympics?

Figure skating does not have the typical Olympic selection process, where spots are determined at U.S. championships or trials. Instead, the International Committee of U.S. Figure Skating will examine the athlete’s sequence of activities from the beginning of 2025 until the 2026 U.S. Championships.

The United States will send a total of 16 skaters to the Milan-Cortina Games, including three men’s, three women’s, two pairs and three ice dance pairs, and will announce the roster on Sunday. But while other players are on the bubble, we have a pretty good sense of who will definitely be on the roster. Classify candidates from lock to long shot.

Watch an exclusive conversation with Ilia Marin in our debut episode. Milan Magic Olympics Podcast. Subscribe and listen: apple podcast | spotify | Amazon

olympic rock

All of these skaters have cemented their place in Milan-Cortina. Marinin and Glenn in the singles and Chock and Bates in the ice dance were national champions, giving them the perfect send-off to Italy.

“God of the Quad” Malinin won the title by a whopping 57 points, and the young prodigy is undoubtedly the top skater in the world. Glenn and Liu have a combination of artistic beauty and fierceness, and have topped the standings in nearly every competition they have competed in. Levit placed third in St. Louis, securing his spot. Chock and Bates are powerhouses in the ice dance world, aiming for their first medals in the sport at their fourth Olympics.

In addition to their individual medal potential, all of these skaters give the U.S. a great chance to win gold in the team event.

probably

  • pair: Ellie Kamm and Danny O’Shea
  • Ice dance: Emilea Zingas and Vadim Kolesnik

This group isn’t a complete rock, but there’s a good chance they’ll join.

Cam and O’Shea finished second at the U.S. Championships, making them the top pair to qualify and finishing on the podium at two Grand Prix events this season. Behind Chock and Bates for most of the season were Zingas and Kolesnik, who finished second at the U.S. Championships and won two medals at the Grand Prix.

There’s a chance

  • male: Jason Brown, Tomoki Hiwatari, Maxim Naumov, Andrew Tolgashev, Jacob Sanchez
  • pair: Katie McBeth and Danielle Parkman. Audrey Singh and Balazs Nagy. Emily Cheung and Spencer Akira Howe
  • Ice dance: Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko

This is where it gets really interesting. The biggest question is who will take the final two spots alongside Marinin. Brown looked like he was in trouble, but a disastrous loss in the free skate dropped him to 12th in his section and eighth overall, putting his Olympic berth in jeopardy.

The rest are Tolgashev, Naumov, and Hiwatari. Tolgashev may be the safest bet after bouncing back from a tough season to win back-to-back U.S. silver medals. Naumov made a remarkable comeback after losing his parents in a plane crash in January 2025, but Hiwatari had many ups and downs. Sanchez, an 18-year-old who rose to No. 4 in St. Louis, boosted his candidacy after a meteoric rise at the senior level. His performance may have accelerated his path to the Olympics.

A second pair of spots is also up for grabs. McBeth and Parkman won silver this year after finishing third in 2025 and are likely to surpass Singh and Nagy, who missed out on the podium in a grueling free skate. However, they won the ISU Challenger Series. The dark horses are Chan and Howe, who bounced back in the free skate at the U.S. Championships and finished fourth for the second year in a row.

Carreira and Ponomarenko earned the inside track to earn the third spot in ice dance after another podium finish.

long shot

  • male: jimmy ma
  • woman: brady tennell
  • pair: Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov
  • Ice dance: caroline green and michael parsons

Although hope remains, it is unlikely that this group will be successful.

Marr is a respected veteran skater who has hovered within the top five at the U.S. Championships in recent years. Tennell has proven she’s still an elite skater, but the women’s spots are stacked, with only three spots open.

Efimova and Mitrofanov will compete for their second consecutive U.S. title, but Efimova has not yet become a U.S. citizen after getting her green card approved in July 2024, and without a passport she will not be able to represent the United States at the Olympics. Green and Parsons have finished on the podium in nearly every event this season, but a fourth-place finish at the 2026 U.S. Championships could put them out of reach.

2026 NFL Playoffs Brackets and Times

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2026 NFL Playoffs Brackets and Times

Check out this weekend’s schedule, game times, networks and how to watch.

Wildcard weekend is finally here.

Six games will be played to determine which teams will advance to the regional round.

The Los Angeles Rams and Carolina Panthers open the season on Saturday, January 10th, followed by the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears. Three more games will be played on Sunday, January 11th, followed by the Houston Texans and Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday night, January 12th.

2026 NFL Playoffs Bracket

To keep track of who’s playing who, here’s the early NFL playoff bracket. Always east.

If you can’t see the graphic, click here to reload the page.

How the NFL playoff format works

After this weekend’s games, the performance of the remaining four teams in each conference will determine the district championship standings.

◾ The No. 1 seeds — the Denver Broncos in the AFC and the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC — will host the remaining lowest seeds.

◾ The next highest remaining seed will host the winner of the other Wild Card weekend.

The NFL postseason is divided into four rounds, starting with Wild Card Weekend and culminating with the Super Bowl.

How to watch the 2026 NFL Wild Card weekend game

Always Eastern:

Looking ahead to the 2026 NFL Division Round

After the wild card weekend, the divisional round begins with two games on Saturday and two games on Sunday.

  • Saturday, January 17: 2 games – 4:30pm and 8:15pm
  • Sunday, January 18: 2 games – 3pm and 6:30pm

Contributor: Ayrton Ostley, USA TODAY

How much is the Powerball jackpot tonight? Check the winning numbers here

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How much is the Powerball jackpot tonight? Check the winning numbers here

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Saturday’s Powerball jackpot reached $124 million, with a cash value of $56 million because no one won the top prize on Wednesday, Jan. 7.

The latest jackpot winning numbers were announced on Christmas Eve and totaled $1.8 billion. The lucky ticket was purchased in Cabot, Arkansas, about 30 miles from Little Rock, but no one has yet claimed the prize.

According to the Arkansas Lottery, winners have 180 days to claim their prize. That is, until Monday, June 22, 2026.

Here’s what you need to know about the drawing tonight at 10:59 PM ET.

more: Tonight’s Powerball jackpot is $124 million! Let us help you pick your numbers

What are the winning Powerball numbers for January 10th?

USA TODAY will publish the winning numbers at 10:59 p.m. ET after the lottery drawing.

Top 10 Powerball Jackpots

  • $2.04 billion in California on November 7, 2022
  • December 24, 2025, $1.817 billion in Arkansas.
  • $1.787 billion in Missouri and Texas on September 6, 2025
  • $1.765 billion in California on October 11, 2023
  • January 13, 2016, $1.586 billion in California, Florida, and Tennessee
  • April 6, 2024, $1.326 billion in Oregon.
  • $1.08 billion in California on July 19, 2023
  • $842.4 million in Michigan on January 1, 2024
  • March 27, 2019, $768.4 million in Wisconsin
  • August 23, 2017, $758.7 million in Massachusetts

more: “Be Quiet:” Here’s what you need to know and do if you win the Mega Millions jackpot.

Do I have to be a US citizen or resident to play Powerball?

The short answer is no. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or resident to play Powerball. Anyone visiting any of the 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands may purchase lottery tickets from authorized and licensed retailers, regardless of nationality, as long as they meet the legal age requirements (usually 18 years old) at the time of purchase.

How to play Powerball

Powerball tickets cost $2 per play and are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This can be done at a variety of locations, including local convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery stores. In some states, you can purchase Powerball tickets online depending on the local jurisdiction.

Once you have your ticket, you have to choose six numbers. Five of them are white balls numbered from 1 to 69. The red Powerball range is 1-26. You can also add a “Power Play” for $1, which increases your winnings on all non-jackpot prizes. “Power Play” multipliers can increase your winnings by 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, or 10x.

A “Quick Pick” option is also available if you want the computer to select the numbers for you. To win the jackpot, players must match all five white balls with the red Powerball in any order.

Powerball drawings are held on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday nights. The winnings continue to increase even if no one wins the jackpot.

The lottery winning numbers sponsors are: Jackpocket, USA TODAY Network’s official digital lottery delivery company.

Can I get Powerball tickets online?

You can also order tickets online Jackpocket, USA TODAY Network’s official digital lottery delivery companythese states and territories of the United States: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington DC, and West Virginia.

The Jackpocket app allows you to choose your lottery games and numbers, place your order, check your tickets, and claim your winnings, all using your phone or home computer.

Jackpocket is the official digital lottery carrier of USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn revenue from viewer referrals to the Jackpocket Service. Must be 18 years or older, 21 years or older in Arizona, 19 years or older in Nebraska. Not affiliated with any state lottery. Gambling problem? Call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). 1-800-327-5050 (MA); 1-877-MYLIMIT (OR); 1-800-981-0023 (PR); 1-800-GAMBLER (ALL OTHERS). visit jackpocket.com/tos Over the entire period.

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

Thousands march in Minneapolis to protest ICE after Renee Good’s death

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Thousands march in Minneapolis to protest ICE after Renee Good’s death

Renee Nicole Good’s death has sparked protests in cities large and small across the United States, and protests are expected to continue throughout the weekend.

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MINNEAPOLIS – Native American dancers performed in traditional costumes in a snow-covered park. An estimated 3,000 demonstrators shouted their frustrations at immigration officials, and the smell of incense hung in the air.

Across Ohio, demonstrators held signs that read “Abolish ICE” and shouted as they were battered by the rain.

In Coachella, California, marchers waved signs, chanted in English and Spanish, and danced to music played from portable speakers. Drivers passing by honked their horns and cheered.

Protests, called by the mayor of Minneapolis and others, took place across the country on Saturday, January 10th, but remained largely peaceful, although the number of participants was smaller than last year’s “No Kings” protests. Further demonstrations are expected on January 11th.

This weekend’s efforts were spurred by the January 7 shooting death of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, by an immigration officer.

That morning, Goode drove to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement site near her home in Minneapolis. Video suggested she was leaving the scene when she was shot, but Vice President J.D. Vance and Homeland Security officials accused her of using her car as a weapon and that agents fired in self-defense.

The controversy immediately sparked protests and vigils in cities large and small across the country, with tens of thousands of Americans participating so far.

Kelly Vogel, who lives on the outskirts of the Twin Cities, said she wants ICE to leave her area. Despite subzero temperatures, there was a large turnout, he said, because “Minnesota people are strong… They have a strong sense of right and wrong.”

Will they stand up for their beliefs or obstruct important enforcement?

The shooting, which was captured on video by a witness, heightened political and community tensions over the Trump administration’s escalating approach to immigration across the country, particularly in Democratic-led cities.

Good’s wife, Rebecca, released a statement describing her partner as a devout Christian who “stopped to support his neighbor” before he was shot. “We had whistles. They had guns,” Rebecca Good said.

couple‘s The neighborhood has been a prime target for immigrant arrests over the past five weeks. Cellphone video released on January 9 shows two women talking with officers while blocking part of the road with their cars.

Residents of targeted blue cities are increasingly following ICE vehicles, honking their horns and blowing whistles to alert neighbors that immigration enforcement is underway.

more: Minneapolis protesters pay tribute to Renee Nicole Good in ‘surreal’ moment: Live

Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas, told conservative broadcaster Newsmax on January 9 that conflicts will continue as long as Americans continue to challenge immigration authorities.

“We need some improvement in the fact that people need to stop demonstrating, stop yelling at law enforcement, stop challenging law enforcement, and start being civil.” Until we do that, I think it’s going to stay that way, and people who are staying home and doing the right thing need to be protected. ”

ICE ramped up enforcement in Minneapolis before the shooting

An estimated 3,000 Minnesotans gathered for an ICE protest scheduled for 1 p.m. on January 10 at Powderhorn Park in south Minneapolis. Good was shot and killed several blocks away from the park.

Many of the protesters in Minneapolis marched out of the park at 1:30 p.m. and headed west down East Lake Street, chanting “F-ICE, ICE out!” “I refuse to believe the lies they are spreading about us, we refuse to concede to their intimidation tactics, and we refuse to concede our people’s power,” said organizer Dae Woo Do.

ICE began targeting Minnesota late last year after Republican leaders drew attention to an ongoing federal fraud investigation involving many local Somali-Americans. On January 4, the deployment to the Minneapolis area expanded to approximately 2,000 agents. “When you’re winning the fight, you don’t need to call for backup,” Doe said. “They are losing this battle.”

Officials told a Fox News correspondent that they have arrested 18 criminals in Minnesota convicted of crimes such as rape and murder since the latest crackdown began.

Some demonstrators in Minneapolis stopped to pay their respects at the spot on Portland Avenue where Good died before marching.

Nori Donai and Len Klinefelter live on the block and participated in the protest. “Even though we’re in the thick of it, it’s always important to go to organized events and show up,” Donai said. Klinefelter said it felt “surreal” to have a shooting happen in front of her home. “We’re very aware of everything that’s going on in our city with ICE, and their presence was definitely a looming shadow, but to have it happen right outside your home is a big deal. Obviously it’s very different,” Klinefelter said.

“We have to show them how outraged we are.”

Ezra Levin, co-founder of the activist group Indivisible, told USA TODAY that he hopes the energy and anger over Goode’s death will be a turning point that will force lawmakers to assess how many people in their communities want to limit ICE.

“If we want politicians to follow us, we have to show them how outraged we are. We have to show them where to go, and that means turning out with the military this weekend,” he said.

Indivisible was founded to teach Americans how to become more involved in their communities. It is part of a coalition of left-wing groups that have helped mobilize protests since President Donald Trump took office for the second time.

“It’s our role at this point to express our anger, and it’s our elected officials’ role to listen to that anger and act on it,” he said. “We appreciate that our elected officials are expressing their anger, but that’s not their job. We want them to take action at the local, state, and federal level to fight back against the secret police who are terrorizing communities and killing Americans. And that means using the tools they have.”

Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota spoke to people marching in Minneapolis from the back of a pickup truck. Earlier in the day, federal officials refused to grant her and two other Minnesota lawmakers access to an ICE processing center in Minneapolis, in apparent violation of federal law.

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Omar speaks at Minneapolis protest, calls President Trump a ‘tyrant’

“This is not the America we want to live in. And this is not the life we ​​want for ourselves or our neighbors.”

Omar said Republicans control Congress and the presidency, but that won’t last forever. “Republicans may have a House majority, they may have a Senate majority, they may hold the presidency today, but we live in a democracy.” “We’re going to escort them all out the door.”

“We have to do something” all over the country

In the hours after Goode’s death, protests and vigils erupted across the United States. This number remained high throughout the week, culminating with organizers planning more than 1,000 events on Saturday, January 10th and Sunday, January 11th, under the banner of “ICE Out For Good Weekend of Action.”

At a rainy protest in Marion, Ohio, attended by dozens of people, 70-year-old Cindy Cooper said she had never been more afraid of a presidential administration. After seeing the video of Good being shot, she decided to join the protests.

“It would be embarrassing not to be here,” Cooper said. “You can’t look at what happened and sit in your nice, warm little house and say, ‘That’s not a shame.’ Something has to be done.”

In Indiana’s capital, about 200 demonstrators chanted “This is what democracy looks like” and held signs as cars passed by on East 86th Street. Some drivers honked their horns in support.

Peter Moore, 48, of Carmel, Indiana, said: “This is not normal since President Trump was inaugurated for his second term, and we can’t condition it any further.” “The more we protest, the more the impact will gradually grow.”

More than 150 people gathered in Coachella, Riverside County, California, on January 10th to protest a mass shooting.

Demonstrators waved placards, chanted in English and Spanish, and danced to music from portable speakers. The protests were peaceful, with no visible police presence. Drivers passing by honked their horns and cheered.

“Enough is enough,” said Gabby Armenta of Comite Latino, a nonprofit organization that organized the event. “ICE is terrorizing our communities. People are afraid to leave their homes.”

ICE activity in the Coachella Valley has increased sharply since mid-December, mirroring last summer’s enforcement campaign.

We need to do something other than vote,” said Django Valledor of La Quinta, California. He sometimes monitors the Home Depot parking lot to protect undocumented workers.

In Iowa, more than 200 people rallied under snow in the King Irving neighborhood of Des Moines holding signs that read, “No Iowa for ICE” and “No ICE!” “ICE is best when crushed!”

Karen Moss, 72, of Urbandale, Iowa, said she couldn’t blame Good for trying to scare away the agents who approached her.

“I can understand how people would be scared of someone wearing a mask, someone who doesn’t identify themselves, someone who gives you two different instructions,” Moss said. “It was a mess.”

“It’s hard to sit back and watch this situation go on without being a part of something,” she added.

At a rally in Naples, Florida, participants said they came together to demand accountability, transparency and immediate investigations into this week’s ICE killings in Minnesota, as well as to honor and humanize the lives taken by ICE. They wanted to create a space for grieving, solidarity, and collecting activities while strengthening local connections.

After an hour-long vigil, participants began a quiet, solemn walk along the Tamiami Trail, illuminated by the constant sound of car horns.

“This killing is part of a broader pattern of unchecked violence, impunity, and abuse perpetrated by federal immigration enforcement against members of our community,” said Cynthia Odierna, an event organizer in Naples.

In Clintonville, Ohio, Zach Dygert stood on the side of North High Street in the rain holding up a sign that read “Abolish ICE.”

The 32-year-old Worthington man and about 500 other protesters said they came here to stand up for others.

“I want people to have more empathy. … Our country was built on immigrants. It goes back to empathy and caring for your neighbor and making sure everyone has a good quality of life,” Dygert said while wearing a shirt that read “Immigration Makes America Great.” “Borders mean less to me than people.”

Contributor: Jake Allen, Indianapolis Star. Danae King, Columbus Dispatch. Abby Bummerlin, Marion Starr. Kyle Warner, Des Moines Register. Phil Fernandez, Naples Daily News. Sam Morgen, Palm Springs Desert Sun

USA TODAY national political correspondent Sarah D. Wire can be reached at swire@usatoday.com.

New movies streaming on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, and Prime

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New movies streaming on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, and Prime

Need to see a new movie? Stream these 10 movies for free at home with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, Paramount+, and Amazon Prime Video.

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  • One of these movies is the one you should watch tonight.
  • This weekend’s selections include theatrical releases available for streaming, such as Disney’s “Tron: Ares,” starring Jared Leto.
  • There are also original streaming movies, such as the Netflix romantic comedy “People We Meet on Vacation.”

Do you like movies? Live for TV? USA TODAY’s Watch Party newsletter has all of our best recommendations, delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up now and be one of the cool kids.

The year of streaming movies begins with something a little old and a little new, from George Clooney as a 1950s newspaper reporter to Jared Leto as a high-tech digital warrior.

January’s movie selections are notoriously vague, but favorite services like Netflix, Peacock, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon’s Prime Video cater to all tastes. In addition to theatrical releases like the latest installment of the Tron series, original movies like Netflix’s romantic comedies based on BookTok’s favorites are finally back. There are also Broadway shows. You don’t even have to brave the Times Square crowd to join.

Here are 10 hottest new movies you can stream right now.

“Bugonia”

Yorgos Lanthimos’ gonzo comedy/psychological romp offers dark web weirdness and sci-fi paranoia. A pharmaceutical company CEO played by Emma Stone is kidnapped by her two conspiracy theorist cousins ​​(Jesse Plemons and Aidan Delvis) who believe she is an alien bent on world domination, leading to a battle for her legacy and a violently chaotic climax.

Where to watch: peacock

“Chain reaction”

Did you ever watch Leatherface go on a rampage in “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and feel an innate connection? This new documentary features in-depth interviews with comedian Patton Oswalt, legendary author Stephen King and others about the artistic legacy of the 1974 horror classic and why it is a timeless “American Nightmare.”

Where to watch: tremble

“Good Night and Good Luck: Live from Broadway.”

George Clooney directed the 2005 film “Good Luck,” and he literally took to the stage. – in this film of last year’s Broadway show. Clooney was nominated for a Tony Award for his role in the historical drama in which he plays Edward R. Murrow, a 1950s CBS journalist who takes on Sen. Joseph McCarthy’s blacklist strategy.

Where to watch: Netflix

“Chuck’s Life”

The best movie of 2025, based on a Stephen King novel, director Mike Flanagan’s supremely entertaining character arc includes an apocalypse, a multi-dance extravaganza, and a haunted attic. Tom Hiddleston plays an accountant whose story unfolds in epic and intimate ways, but the movie isn’t about Chuck, it’s about all of us.

Where to watch: Hulu

“Next Battle”

This timely action drama from director Paul Thomas Anderson, who has the most Golden Globe nominations with nine nominations, is a must-see in the lead-up to Oscar season. Leonardo DiCaprio plays a scruffy former revolutionary desperately searching for his teenage daughter (Chase Infinity), who is hotly pursued by his nemesis (Sean Penn).

Where to watch: HBO Max

“People I meet on vacation”

The romantic comedy, adapted from Emily Henry’s novel, is a breezy ride, at least until it takes a serious turn downwind. Poppy (Emily Bader) and Alex (Tom Bryce) are unlikely best friends from college and go on vacation together every summer, usually with a lot of fuss until their significant others and their feelings for each other complicate matters.

Where to watch: Netflix

“It’s a shame.”

This adaptation of Colleen Huber’s novel is rich in romantic drama. Morgan (Allison Williams) and her brother-in-law Jonah (Dave Franco) lose their spouses in a car accident and discover that they were having an affair, while Morgan also grapples with his teenage daughter (McKenna Grace) falling in love with a popular local boy (Mason Thames).

Where to watch: paramount+

“Strange Harvest”

Equal parts slasher movie and faux documentary, this horror film follows a detective investigating the return of a serial killer named Mr. Shiny. Mr. Shiny leaves a trail of tragic victims in his past and is once again tormenting the police with his serial murders. Perfect for anyone who loves Netflix’s true crime shows and weird space horror.

Where to watch: Hulu

‘together’

This relationship body horror movie stars real-life couple Alison Brie and Dave Franco as lovers whose relationship isn’t on the best of terms when they make the big move. They get lost in the forest and fall into a strange cave. The two then realize that not only are they unable to escape from each other, but they have grown together in the most squirrely way.

Where to watch: Hulu

“Tron: Ares”

The third film in the visually stylish 1980s series is for die-hard fans. Ares (Jared Leto), a computer program warrior from the Grid, teams up with a programmer (Greta Lee) when a shady technology company and its evil CEO (Evan Peters) bring a terrifying army from the digital environment into the real world.

Where to watch: disney plus

Ilya Marin aims for title US Figure Skating Championships live results

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Ilya Marin aims for title US Figure Skating Championships live results

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ST. LOUIS — The 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships conclude today with the crowning of the men’s champion and ice dance champion.

The titles in both categories are almost confirmed. After another outstanding performance in the short program, Ilia Marin outperformed the other competitors by a margin of more than 15 points over second place, securing her fourth consecutive victory. The same goes for ice dancing, where Madison Chock and Evan Bates are just hours away from making national championship history.

The day remains an important one for the remaining competitors, as it is their last chance to show why they deserve to be part of the 2026 Olympic team, which will be announced on Sunday.

Follow USA TODAY Sports for live results, updates, scores and standings for Day 4 games.

Milan Magic: Available on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

The standings will be updated as pairs complete their free dances.

  1. caroline green and michael parsons: 202.05
  2. Emily Blatty and Ian Somerville: 197.29
  3. Oona Brown and Gage Brown: 194.31
  4. Katarina Wolfkostin and Dimitri Tzarevsky: 186.60
  5. Leah Neset and Artem Markelov: 176.46
  6. Maia Shibutani and Alex Shibutani: 173.17
  7. Amy Cui and Jonathan Rogers: 172.39
  8. Eva Pate and Logan Bye: 170.49
  9. Eliana Peele and Ethan Peele: 169.60
  10. Rafaela Consius and Alexei Shchepetov: 166.62
  11. Isabella Flores and Linus Colmore: 160.75
  12. Vanessa Pham and Anton Spiridonov: 158.62

Here are the results of the free dance so far.

  • Oona Brown and Gage Brown: The total segment score was 118.59, the technical component score was 67.15, and the program component score was 51.44.
  • Emily Blatty and Ian Somerville: The total segment score was 117.86, the technical component score was 66.38, and the program component score was 51.48.
  • Katarina Wolfkostin and Dimitri Tzarevsky: Total segment score 111.61, technical component score 62.33, program component score 49.28.
  • Leah Neset and Artem Markelov: The total segment score was 105.18, the technical component score was 57.74, and the program component score was 47.44.
  • Amy Cui and Jonathan Rogers: The total segment score was 104.79, the technical component score was 59.23, and the program component score was 45.56.
  • Maia Shibutani and Alex Shibutani: The total segment score was 101.93, the technical component score was 54.63, and the program component score was 47.30.
  • Rafaela Consius and Alexei Shchepetov: The total segment score was 101.47, the technical component score was 57.27, and the program component score was 44.20.
  • Eliana Peele and Ethan Peele: The total segment score is 100.00, the technical component score is 55.38, and the program component score is 44.62.
  • Vanessa Pham and Anton Spiridonov: Total segment score 97.21, technical component score 54.07, program component score 43.14.
  • Eva Pate and Logan Bye: The total segment score is 96.95, the technical component score is 51.15, and the program component score is 46.80.
  • Isabella Flores and Linus Colmore Jepsen: Total segment score 94.38, technical component score 51.44, and program component score 42.94.
  • Caroline Green and Michael Parsons: The total segment score was 121.50, the technical component score was 68.06, and the program component score was 53.44.

Here is the rest of the lineup.

  • Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko
  • Emilia Zingas and Vadim Kolesnik
  • Madison Chock and Evan Bates

Who is on the U.S. Olympic figure skating team?

Teams will be decided on Sunday at 2pm, with three men’s singles skaters, three women’s singles skaters, three ice dance team members and two pairs, for a total of 16 skaters. The USFS selection process includes past performance, focusing on an athlete’s body of work over the past two seasons.

Ilya Marinin, Amber Glenn, Alisa Liu, and Isabeau Levit are on the roster, as are Madison Chock and Evan Bates. This leaves two spots open for the ice dance team and two spots for pairs on the men’s side.

  • tv set: NBC
  • Live stream: peacock
  • Ice Dance Free Dance Groups 2 and 3: 7:20pm
  • Men’s Free Skate Groups 2 and 3: 9pm

Madison Chock and Evan Bates have finished on the podium at the U.S. Nationals every year since 2013. They have won four straight ice dance championships, and their six combined titles are tied for the most with the greats Meryl Davis and Charlie White.

Tonight, they may be the only record holders. They have a nearly six-point lead over second-placed Emilia Dzingas and Vadim Kolesnik, with plenty of room for the free dance. If Chock and Bates’ free dance program is of high quality, they could end up with double-digit wins.

This is just the latest feat in what has been a great season for the couple. Since the start of 2025, he has won all but one of the seven tournaments he has participated in, including winning the Grand Prix Final in December for three years in a row.

The couple’s return to the Winter Olympics is almost official, with Milan-Cortina being their fourth Olympics. The only thing that has eluded them in their illustrious careers is an Olympic medal in ice dancing in 2022, when they fall just short of the podium.

Men’s Free Skate Group 2

  • 9:05pm: Goku Endo
  • 9:13pm: jimmy ma
  • 9:21pm: Lucius Kazaneki
  • 9:29pm: Kvar Island
  • 9:37pm: Liam Kapeikis
  • 9:45pm: Jacob Sanchez

Men’s Free Skate Group 3

  • 10pm: Daniel Martinov
  • 10:08pm: Andrew Tolgashev
  • 10:16pm: Maxim Naumov
  • 10:24pm: Jason Brown
  • 10:32pm: Tomoki Hiwatashi
  • 10:40pm: Ilia Marin

Men’s free skating results

  • Lorenzo Elano: The total segment score was 141.69, the technical component score was 69.19, and the program component score was 73.50.
  • Michael Shea: Total segment score 136.83, technical component score 72.40, program component score 64.43.
  • Emmanuel Sabally: The total segment score was 127.93, the technical component score was 59.63, and the program component score was 70.30.
  • Samuel Mindra: The total segment score was 125.02, the technical component score was 53.76, and the program component score was 71.26.
  • Will Annis: The total segment score was 120.85, the technical component score was 56.27, and the program component score was 64.58.
  • Ken Mikawa: The total segment score was 94.22, the technical component score was 40.04, and the program component score was 55.18.

ice dancing vs figure skating

Ice dancing does not involve jumps or lifts, as there are in pair figure skating. Ice dance consists of two sections: rhythm dance and free dance.

How did Ilia Marin come up with the program?

It takes an innovative mind to be as sensational as Malinin, but his creative process is far from ordinary. He said a lot of that comes from his love of gymnastics and acrobatics, which is why he can perform such spectacular jumps.

“It really pushes me to push the limits of my skating, not just in terms of performance, but every jump, every spin, every hard thing, to be even more athletic,” he said. “It’s a lot of fun, but at the same time we feel it’s really beneficial to bring something new to the sport, so everyone gets to see something unique.”

The “quad god” of figure skating: the nickname of Ilya Marinin

Simply put, Ilya Marin has the most versatile jumps of any figure skater in history. He launched seven quadruple jumps into the air in a single long program at last month’s Grand Prix Final, becoming the first skater to land a quadruple axel.

Marinin’s username used to be Lutz God, but he changed it to Quadruple God after landing his first quadruple jump.

“I didn’t really think about it…As the days went by, people started asking, ‘Why did you call yourself Quad God, when you could only do one jump?'” he said on USA TODAY’s new Olympic podcast, Milan Magic, whose first episode airs Saturday. “And I thought, ‘Oh, okay, maybe I should be a quad god.'” From there, he found a rhythm, landing quad after quad, and of course landing his first quad axel. ”

“In the most humbling way possible, I think it definitely helped not only my confidence in skating in general, but also the feeling that I deserve to be recognized for who I am.”

When will the 2026 Winter Olympics start?

The opening ceremony of the Milan-Cortina Games will be held on February 6th, and the closing ceremony will be held on February 22nd.

How does Ilya Marinin train for quadruple jumps?

Marinin said on USA TODAY’s new Olympic podcast “Milan Magic” with Christine Brennan and Brian Boitano, the first episode of which airs Saturday, that he likes to skate the entire program at least once a day. But that doesn’t mean every jump in that practice session has to be a quad. It depends on how his body feels.

“For me, to maintain stamina, just to maintain stamina, at least the standard base can be all triple jumps. But of course, depending on how I’m feeling and how my training is going, I can say, ‘Maybe tomorrow I can go for a full quad layout. Or maybe I can do a full quad and do the rest triple.’

“I think the main focus for me is just doing the whole program, all the jumps, all the spins, and getting that muscle memory in my head, because a lot of times, especially for me, I think if I’ve done a certain amount of triple jumps and I’m used to it, I can go and quadruple jumps are going to be a little bit easier, too, because I’ve been practicing muscle memory for a while.”

Milan Magic: Listen apple, spotify Or wherever you get your podcasts.

Ford CEO Jim Farley joins Detroit mission to end homelessness

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Ford CEO Jim Farley joins Detroit mission to end homelessness

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  • Ford CEO Jim Farley volunteers at the Pope Francis Center in Detroit, which helps men overcome chronic homelessness.
  • Farley helped raise money for the center and dedicated a room to his late cousin, comedian Chris Farley, to help inspire residents battling addiction.
  • The center provides housing, meals, and a comprehensive program that includes job skills and addiction recovery support.
  • Farley connected with resident artist Alan Webster and presented him with a handmade model of a Ford Model T pickup truck.

Alan Webster is a talented man with dreams, ambitions, and plenty of demons.

A few years ago, the demons left him on the streets of Detroit. He ended up at the Pope Francis Center Bridge Housing Campus in the Core City neighborhood. He has been living there for the past nine months, receiving support to overcome chronic homelessness.

On a Saturday afternoon in December, Webster is sitting in the center’s art room. He works on sculpting intricate models. That talent, and his dream of one day painting houses, he carries with him in his quest to finally get sober and own a home again.

“When I was on other shows, I used to tell (my mom) that I was drinking and that I was going to do better this time, I was going to stay sober, and then I would relapse,” Webster said. “I’ve done it so many times that when I tell her now, she says, ‘I’ve heard this a million times.’ So I have to really show her that I’m doing better.”

This is a confession Webster made to Jim Farley, CEO of Ford Motor Company.

Farley stood next to Webster, nodding as he listened to Webster’s story about how he became homeless. Farley asks Webster about his life and family, and when Webster describes a childhood where his father was largely absent due to his father’s addiction, he simply replies, “I see.” It’s a relaxed conversation, with Webster speaking without the self-consciousness that you typically have when talking to the CEO of a multibillion-dollar global company.

Farley has volunteered for decades at the Pope Francis Center Day Center Church on St. Anthony Street and here at the Bridge Housing Campus, which opened in September 2024. The center provides a food pantry for nearby residents and, although it is a male-only residence, it takes in homeless people of all genders during emergency weather.

Farley supports all of it and continues to do so, telling the Detroit Free Press, part of the USA TODAY Network, that she hopes others will donate time and money to help the facility. He feels comfortable walking around campus, greeting some of the 37 staff members and the 20 regular volunteers who come in each day. Farley is especially comfortable joking with residents like Webster.

Farley pointed to a detailed model of an old ship that Webster had made and asked Webster how he had built it.

“I make plastic models,” Farley said. “Mine isn’t that good.”

The quiet music accentuated the solitude of the room, and Farley commented, “Do you listen to music? I do too. Just doing my thing for hours on end. Were you in the Navy?”

“No,” Webster answered, then laughed a little, realizing that the ship wasn’t the real surprise that was in store for Farley within minutes.

In case you missed it: The man who built Ford’s new global headquarters has a 100-year history with the automaker.

understanding addiction

Farley helped run a campaign that raised nearly $40 million to build a 60,000-square-foot campus with 40 studio apartments, a kitchen and cafeteria, a gymnasium, medical and dental clinics, a barber shop, legal services, a library, a chapel, and this art room. The facility offers comprehensive classes and programs to end chronic homelessness among men.

He also donated some of his own money (he declined to say how much), which is why the Rev. Tim McCabe, CEO of the Pope Francis Center, wanted to name it after Farley.

So at the center of the facility is a room dedicated to Farley’s cousin, the late comedian Chris Farley, who struggled with drug addiction and died of a drug overdose in 1997 at age 33. It’s in that room that men like Webster go to nightly meetings for Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. They also attend classes there to learn job skills, financial acumen, conflict resolution and emotional intelligence.

Farley said it would be more appropriate and inspirational to name the room after Chris rather than herself. It shows residents that no matter how successful they are, anyone can fall.

“My family is a large Catholic family, and like many Catholic families, there are many stories of people struggling with addiction,” Farley told the Detroit Free Press. “So I thought, I wish I had a room, because it’s a big problem having to unpack for the people here. It’s a big problem for a lot of families like ours, and it’s tragic.”

Farley said that when he worked for Toyota and lived in California in the 1990s, he often met Chris when he was filming movies.

“It was so sad to see someone so talented and making so many people happy, he wasn’t happy,” Farley said.

McCabe said there have been 13 residents who have gone through programs in the Chris Farley Room since the center opened, and there is a waiting list for more residents, waiting for housing to open there so they too can take the program.

“They all have their own stories, their own pains and struggles,” McCabe said.

But McCabe said many men have overcome tremendous obstacles, and if they are surrounded by love and given the tools to succeed, they can often overcome them.

“What keeps us from becoming homeless? We have a web of family that keeps us safe,” McCabe said. “They don’t have that, so we become family to them. It’s not just about giving to them, it’s about holding them accountable, giving them agency, expecting them to succeed and telling them it’s possible.”

There’s nowhere to go until this place saves him.

Back in the art room, Farley watches Webster working on his latest model, which he can’t tell because he’s just started making it.

“You have balsa wood and paint and your creativity,” Farley said. “They drive you crazy.”

After that and some more questioning from Farley, Webster revealed his life story, which began with two years of living in a van.

“What kind of van is it?” Farley asked.

“I had a (Dodge) Caravan,” Webster said. “I was working at the time, but I didn’t like it, so I quit my job and started painting on my own. Things were going well for about a year, then all of a sudden I hit a dead end and couldn’t find any more work. I couldn’t pay rent, and I ended up living in a van for two years.”

Eventually, he explained, the van broke down at a gas station. “Then I thought, ‘Oh my god, where do we go from here?'”

Webster said he went through a 30-day program with the Salvation Army’s Harbor Light System, which helps people struggling with substance use disorders and homelessness. But when that program ended, Webster still had nowhere to go but back on the street.

“But then the Pope Francis Center came down there and introduced this place (to me) and asked if I would like to come here,” Webster said. “I don’t think that’s true. You have your own room, you have your own TV, you have your own art room, you have your own library, you eat good food here…you have a washer and dryer, and they’ll keep you here until you find your own place. They really help you out.”

“That’s the idea,” Farley said.

“I’ve never been to a place like this in my life,” Webster said. “I’ve never heard of a place like this in my life.”

He paused and said, looking stoic. “It saved my life. So many other programs… Once you complete the program, you can get back on the street.”

Gifts that elicit hugs from furries

Webster grew up in Michigan and attended Riverside High School in Dearborn Heights, Michigan. He said he realized he had a talent for art when he was in the third grade of elementary school.

But he never got much direction from adults about what to do with his talents. Webster told Farley that her parents divorced when she was 12 years old, adding: “I never felt like I had a father figure in my life. He was a terrible alcoholic.”

“I see, I see,” Farley said. “Addiction is a big part of our lives.”

At this point, McCabe told Farley that the Pope Francis Center had given him a gift, explaining that the center had purchased one of Webster’s works of art, a model of a Ford Model T pickup truck.

The gift is fitting not only because Mr. Farley owns Ford, but also because his maternal grandfather, Emmett Tracy, was an early Ford employee and built the Model T. Tracy was an important role model in Farley’s life.

McCabe hands Farley a Model T pickup. Details include a green painted bed, black body, and painted red trim around the tires. Farley examined it, dumbfounded.

“This is warehouse hacking. That’s what it’s called,” Farley said, pointing to the undercarriage. “They went through the station. It’s crazy. There’s ridiculous springs in both the front and back, and shackles on the axles. It’s crazy. Is this from you?”

“Yes, I signed it,” Webster said. “From Pope Francis.”

“This one in particular from you is something I will always treasure. Thank you so much,” Farley said, and Webster pointed to the Ford logo on the back. “I really like it. It’s great, thank you so much.”

Farley stopped and said he wasn’t a hugger, and said, “But I’ll give you a hug,” and the two hugged.

Offer to Ford Management

Farley, who keeps his grandfather’s worker ID badge in the CEO office at the company’s Old World headquarters on Michigan Avenue, known as the “Glass House,” told Webster that he plans to keep the Model T in his new office at Ford’s New World headquarters, about a mile from Oakwood Boulevard and Village Road.

“Is that okay?” Farley asks Webster. “Would you come visit me and run the Ford for a few minutes? What would you do if I ran the Ford? If I give you 10 minutes, you can do whatever you want for 10 minutes, but what will you do?”

Webster paused in thought before confirming that new car production was progressing smoothly.

Farley laughs. “Is that all you need for 10 minutes? Go to the factory? Get on the company plane and do a lap?”

“No, I was out of luck,” Webster said with a laugh. “I’d love to see how they come up with these new vehicles.”

“Well, would you like to go to a design studio?” Farley said.

“Don’t they start with a big lump of clay and sculpt it?” Webster said. That’s the part I want.

Farley explained that Ford still uses clay to model new cars. Clay is the best material, he said, because the exterior surfaces of the car are very delicate. He explained that Ford does digital scanning of the clay, adding that as an artist, “the only way to capture light and make it interesting is to use clay.”

“Someday I’m going to take you to a design center,” McCabe said, to which Farley added, “You should be a clay modeler at Ford. I want that job.”

Farley’s Farewell Words to Webster

Webster said living at the Pope Francis Center gives him a sense of security and allows him to reflect on his future goals. He can reflect on his mistakes, drown out his demons, and dream of a better future.

“My goals…I want to be a painter. I want to be a house painter. I want to work with columns and paint on things that look like real marble,” Webster said. “In Dearborn, there are pillars everywhere. I love to draw. My lines are sharp and straight.”

Farley tells Webster to keep that dream alive and to think of him every day when he sees Webster’s gift of a “beautiful” Model T.

“I have as high expectations as your mother has for you,” Farley said. “I’m looking forward to seeing what happens. Good luck and make the most of your time here.”

Jamie L. Lareau is senior auto writer for USA Today and covers Ford Motor Company for the Detroit Free Press. Contact Jamie at jlareau@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @Jalalean. To sign up for our automotive newsletter. become a subscriber.

ICE denies Rep. Ilhan Omar entry to Minneapolis detention center

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ICE denies Rep. Ilhan Omar entry to Minneapolis detention center

Legal experts told USA TODAY that Congressional oversight is key to ensuring safe conditions inside the facility, especially without notice.

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Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar announced on January 10 that she was denied access to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Minneapolis.

The progressive Democrat’s visit comes amid nationwide demonstrations against immigration enforcement in Minneapolis and Portland, Oregon, and days earlier, on January 7, the killing of Nicole Renee Good, 37, by ICE agents. Omar, along with fellow Minnesota Democrats Angie Craig and Kelly Morrison, attempted to break into the Whipple Building, a federal building.

“Lawmakers have a legal right and constitutional responsibility to monitor where people are being held,” Omar said in the X post. “The public has a right to know what is happening in ICE facilities.”

News outlets reported that three U.S. delegates were escorted past federal agents who had been taken away, most of whom appeared to be masked. Craig told MS Now that he was told by ICE officials that members of Congress could not enter the facility because it was funded by the “Big Beautiful Act,” not Congressional spending.

Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary for public affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, which includes ICE, said lawmakers were told the visit was inappropriate and “not in compliance” with the agency’s mandate, citing concerns for the safety of detainees and staff. McLaughlin said “current court orders and policies” require members of Congress to notify ICE at least seven days in advance of their visit to Congress.

“Due to their failure to comply with this mandate, Rep. Omar and her colleagues were denied access to the facility,” McLaughlin said in a statement.

DHS did not respond to additional questions about court orders or policies indicating such restrictions. Members of Congress can conduct surprise inspections of ICE facilities under federal appropriations law.

Funds provided to DHS cannot be used to prevent members of Congress from “entering, for the purpose of conducting surveillance, facilities operated by or for the Department of Homeland Security that are used to detain or house aliens,” according to federal law. The law also states that “nothing in this section shall be construed to require members of Congress to provide advance notice of their intention to enter a facility.”

In mid-December, a federal judge blocked a Trump administration policy that required members of Congress to request access to ICE detention facilities at least a week in advance. The DHS policy, announced in June, likely “violates the law and exceeds DHS’s statutory authority,” U.S. Judge Gia Cobb of the District of Columbia wrote in a Dec. 17 opinion.

Legal experts previously told USA TODAY that oversight, especially unannounced inspections of conditions, is key to ensuring safe conditions within the facility.

“This means there will be no guardrails to ensure a safe environment for people in detention,” said Greg Chen, senior director of government relations at the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

Eduardo Cuevas is based in New York City. Contact us via email (emcuevas1@usatoday.com) or Signal (emcuevas.01).

Bob Weir dies – Founding member of the Grateful Dead was 78 years old

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Bob Weir dies – Founding member of the Grateful Dead was 78 years old

Bob Weir, one of the founding members of the legendary rock band the Grateful Dead, has died at the age of 78 from “an underlying lung condition.”

Weir passed away “peacefully” on Saturday, January 10, after “bravely beating cancer,” according to a post shared on his Instagram account. A representative for Weir confirmed to USA TODAY the post was accurate, but no further information was available at this time.

“For more than 60 years, Bobby continued on his path: guitarist, vocalist, storyteller, and founding member of the Grateful Dead. Bobby will forever be a guiding force, and his unique artistry will change American music,” the post reads. “His work didn’t just fill a room with music; it was a warm ray of sunshine that filled the soul and built a sense of community, language, and family that generations of fans have carried with them.”

In October 2024, bassist Phil Lesh, another founding member of the Grateful Dead, passed away at the age of 84.

This is a developing story.

Nobel Institute says Machado cannot award peace prize to Trump

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Nobel Institute says Machado cannot award peace prize to Trump

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The Norwegian Nobel Institute will not hand over the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to President Donald Trump, despite recent indications that Venezuelan opposition leader María Colina Machado will do so.

In a statement, the Nobel Institute clarified: “A Nobel Prize cannot be revoked, shared or transferred to another person. Once announced, the decision remains in effect forever.”

According to the Nobel Institute, “It is impossible to revoke the Nobel Peace Prize. Neither Alfred Nobel’s will nor the Nobel Foundation’s constitution mention such a possibility.”

The Nobel Institute’s position comes after President Trump announced in a sit-down interview on Fox News’ “Hannity” on January 8 that Machado would be coming to the United States “sometime next week.” During the interview, host Sean Hannity asked President Trump whether he would meet Machado to accept the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize if she presented him with it.

President Trump responded, “I hear she’s going to be somewhere next week and I’m looking forward to saying hello to her. I hear she would like to do that. It would be a great honor.”

Appearing on Fox News’ “Hannity” on January 5, Machado said awarding Trump the Nobel Peace Prize would be an act of gratitude from the Venezuelan people for removing leader Nicolas Maduro, who was detained by the United States on January 3.

“Did you ever offer to give him the Nobel Peace Prize?” Hannity asked. “Did that actually happen?”

Machado replied, “Well, that hasn’t happened yet.”

“As a general rule,” the institute’s committee said, “we do not comment on the behavior of Peace Prize winners after receiving their award.”

“The committee’s mandate is limited to evaluating the achievements and efforts of the nominees up to the moment when the Nobel Peace Prize winner for the year is determined,” the statement said.

Who is Maria Colina Machado?

Machado, 58, won the Nobel Peace Prize in October 2025 for his “tireless efforts to advance the democratic rights of the Venezuelan people and his struggle to achieve a just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy,” according to the Nobel Institute.

The Venezuelan opposition leader’s fight for democracy dates back to the early 2000s, when she co-founded Sumate, a volunteer civil society group that seeks to strengthen democracy abroad through a variety of means, including monitoring elections.

Machado’s influence led her to enter politics, and in 2010 she was elected to the Venezuelan National Assembly. In March 2014, she was removed from her position by the regime, which led her to become opposition leader.

According to the Nobel Institute, Machado has been appointed as the opposition candidate in the 2024 presidential election. However, the government blocked her from running. She then decided to support another candidate.

According to the prestigious institute, when Machado won the Nobel Peace Prize, she was living in hiding because of the threats she faced. It is unclear where Machado is now that Maduro, who the United States strongly opposed, has been captured. Nevertheless, President Trump said he was awaiting her expected visit.

Contributor: James Powell, USA TODAY

Learn how to avoid these tax forms

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Learn how to avoid these tax forms

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Tax day is fast approaching and it will soon be time to start collecting your documents. If you haven’t seen it yet, you might be easily overwhelmed by the numbers and letters like W-2, W-9, and 1099.

Some forms are pre-filled and designed to be submitted to the IRS. They may be sent to your mailbox or to the “Tax Documents” portal on the website. In theory, you might not need to do anything other than file it with your tax representative if you have one, or document the appropriate amount on your tax return. Other formats require action on your part.

Here’s an overview.

What is the W-9 used for?

W-9s are typically used by businesses to collect personally identifying information such as name, address, social security number, and tax identification number for income purposes.

Common reasons for filling out a W-9 are because you are an independent contractor, freelancer, or gig worker. You may also be asked to fill out a W-9 when opening an interest-bearing bank account or another financial account that provides extra income.

This form will not be sent to the IRS. However, the information you provide on your W-9 will be used to prepare and fill out other forms. Read more.

Is a W-9 the same as a 1099?

The main difference between a W-9 and a 1099 is that the W-9 is filled out by you, whereas the company or entity making the payment fills out the 1099. In most cases, you should receive your 1099 form by the end of January.

The 1099 form is used to report income that is not earned directly through an employer. There are several types of 1099 forms because there are many ways to make money outside of traditional jobs.

Common 1099s displayed: 1099-G, 1099-K, 1099-R, 1099-Div

Some of the most common 1099s you may receive are:

◾ 1099-G: Details of unemployment compensation and state or local tax refunds that are considered income.

◾ 1099-K: Summarize the income you earn from third-party payment networks such as Etsy, eBay, and Venmo.

◾ 1099-R: Report distributions of $10 or more from various types of retirement plans, pensions, annuities, insurance contracts, and similar accounts.

◾ 1099-Division: Used by banks and other financial institutions to report dividends and other distributions to taxpayers and the IRS.

What is a W-4? What is it for?

The W-4 is a form you must complete when you work directly for an employer.

This tells your employer how much federal income tax should be withheld from your paycheck based on factors such as whether you are married and filing a joint return, whether you have dependents to declare, and whether you work multiple jobs.

You will usually be asked to fill it out when you start your job. It’s a good idea to check your forms regularly, especially if you notice that the amount withheld from your paycheck is significantly different from the taxes you ultimately owe at the end of the year.

You should also revisit this if your marital status changes, if you have or adopt a child, or if your employment status changes.

The IRS has a withholding estimator tool that can help you determine how to adjust your W-4 entries.

What can I learn from my W-2 form?

A W-2 is a form that your employer must send by the end of January to document how much you earned working for your employer in the previous year and how much tax was withheld from your paycheck. This form also shows how much you earned from tips and the benefits you received during the year.

If you had more than one job last year, expect to receive a separate W-2 from each employer.

You must include each W-2 form on your tax return.

What is a 1040 tax return?

The 1040 is a comprehensive form used to fill out an individual’s income tax return. The two-page document records the different types of income you earned last year, indicates whether you take the standard deduction or itemized deductions, and reports which tax credits you’re eligible for.

Follow the instructions on the form and crunch the numbers to find out how much tax you owe or how much of a refund you need.

Who fills out Form 5695?

Form 5695 is used to declare eligible residential energy credits. Importantly, this form does not apply to businesses.

Daniel de Visse covers personal finance for USA TODAY.

Golden Globe Awards’ new podcast category sparks rights controversy

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Golden Globe Awards’ new podcast category sparks rights controversy

Amy Poehler and Dax Shepard are the two controversial Golden Globe nominees for Best New Podcast.

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It seems like everyone has a podcast now.

So, isn’t it about time for the major award shows to catch up? The Golden Globe Awards is venturing into previously uncharted territory this year with the introduction of the Podcast of the Year award, which aims to celebrate the medium’s most “extraordinary and diverse talent,” according to the organization.

But as with any major change, this news was not without some backlash. Here’s what you need to know about the new Golden Globes, once again hosted by Nikki Glazer, on Sunday, January 11 (CBS and Paramount+, 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT).

Why did the Golden Globes add a podcast category?

The Golden Globes announced last spring that the show would add a podcast category in 2026, citing “exponential growth” in the medium that reflects “today’s audience and consumer behavior.” According to data tracker Luminate, the global audience for podcasts is expected to exceed 600 million this year.

“As the world of entertainment continues to evolve, we are excited to recognize new forms of storytelling,” Golden Globes President Helen Hohne said in a statement last May. “By celebrating achievements in both audio and visual podcasting, we aim to honor traditional categories while making room for new voices and formats to be heard.”

What’s the controversy surrounding the podcast category at the Golden Globe Awards?

The new podcast category sparked a small controversy with the revelation that Luminate would narrow down the list of eligible podcasts to 25. Penske Media owns major entertainment publications covering the Golden Globes, Luminate, and podcasts such as Variety and The Hollywood Reporter. In response, a Los Angeles Times article denounced the new category as unethical and a “money grab.”

The list of 25 podcasts targeted includes controversial right-wing shows by Megyn Kelly, Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens and Ben Shapiro, the latter of whom campaigned heavily for the nomination. Mr. Shapiro gave an “informative” interview ahead of the vote, and his conservative media company, the Daily Wire, even bought a “Ben Shapiro Show” sign in Times Square.

But in the end, political podcasts were not nominated in favor of shows focused on middle-class entertainment.

25 podcasts eligible for awards:

  • “20/20” (ABC News)
  • “48 Hours” (CBS News)
  • “Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard”
  • “Call her daddy.”
  • “Candice”
  • “Crime Junkie”
  • “Dateline NBC”
  • “Be good friends with Amy Poehler.”
  • “Sick”
  • “MrBallen Podcast: Strange, Dark, Mystical Stories”
  • “sorry”
  • “Pod Save America”
  • “Rotten mango”
  • “Sean Ryan Show”
  • “Smartless”
  • “What you need to know”
  • “The Ben Shapiro Show”
  • “Bill Simmons Podcast”
  • “The Daily” (New York Times)
  • “The Joe Rogan Experience”
  • “The Megyn Kelly Show”
  • “Mel Robbins Podcast”
  • “Tucker Carlson Show”
  • “This weekend with Theo Fung”
  • NPR’s “Up First”

Who will be nominated for this year’s Golden Globe Podcast?

The nominees for the first podcast category are:

  • “Armchair Expert and Dax Shepard”
  • “Call her daddy.”
  • “Be good friends with Amy Poehler.”
  • “Mel Robbins Podcast”
  • “Smartless”
  • “First things first.”

Who is expected to win Best Podcast at the 2026 Golden Globe Awards?

Awards experts at Variety, Vanity Fair, and GoldDerby unanimously predict that Poehler will win the award for her entertaining freshman season of “Good Hang,” and with good reason.

The “Saturday Night Live” star has a goofy warmth and flair for riffs that lend her well to the podcast format, allowing A-list guests like Ariana Grande and Gwyneth Paltrow to open up in a way she rarely does in interviews. More importantly, Poehler has a genuine curiosity and sensitivity, and knows when to sit quietly and listen to his subjects.

Frankly, you couldn’t ask for a better hang.

US forces attack Islamic State across Syria

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US forces attack Islamic State across Syria

Kanishka Singh
|Reuters

WASHINGTON, Jan. 10 (Reuters) – The U.S. military said on Saturday it had carried out multiple attacks in Syria targeting the Islamic State group.

“Today’s airstrikes targeted ISIS throughout Syria,” U.S. Central Command said in a statement, adding that the strikes took place in the early afternoon ET.

The statement did not say whether there were any casualties in the airstrike.

more: ‘Declaration of revenge’: Pentagon attacks ISIS in Syria

The attack was part of Operation Hawkeye, launched in December in response to ISIS’s deadly attack on American and Syrian forces in Palmyra on December 13, 2025, according to an X post from US Central Command.

The attack killed two American soldiers and an American civilian interpreter.

Contributor: Melissa Montoya

George Clooney criticizes Richard Gere at Giorgio Armani memorial event

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George Clooney criticizes Richard Gere at Giorgio Armani memorial event

At the 2026 WWD Style Awards, George Clooney went on a rant during his speech honoring his late friend Giorgio Armani, while Demi Moore joked that she dresses “like a 12-year-old” when she doesn’t have a stylist.

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SANTA MONICA, Calif. – Brevity was in vogue at the 2nd Annual WWD Style Awards. Cheeky George Clooney even let slip a four-letter word while joking about his fellow actors.

The 64-year-old actor arrived directly from his previous attendance at the AFI Awards to kick off the event on Friday, January 9, accepting the red carpet visionary award on behalf of the late Giorgio Armani. Clooney showed off his work often, but most importantly on his wedding day. The founder of the Italian fashion house passed away in September.

“It’s a strange thing to say, but he left us too soon at 91 years old. He just celebrated 50 years in the industry,” Clooney said. “I would argue that if there’s anyone here to talk about Giorgio, it should probably be Richard Gere. I think they both make each other famous.”

“But he couldn’t come, so here you go, that guy,” Clooney joked, causing the audience to burst into laughter. The A-lister then wisely stepped back. This was likely to reduce the chance of the video going viral. “And that’s the only thing that will come out this whole night. I actually love him. Demi (Moore), stick with me on this.”

Moore, who was honored as a fashion icon, was seated at one of the tables in front of Clooney.

“I only accept this on behalf of[Armani’s]family, his colleagues and friends,” Clooney added. “And all I can say is I wish he was here to see this, but maybe he is.”

“I have failed many times.” George Clooney has no interest in retiring after ‘long journey’ to stardom

Cameron Diaz and Mindy Kaling passionately talk about the stylists and makeup artists who help them perform on the red carpet

The night’s guests seemed to appreciate the brevity of the 90-minute ceremony, which opened on the first day of Hollywood’s marathon weekend leading up to the Golden Globe Awards ceremony on Sunday, January 11.

The longest speech by the 11 honorees, including Demi Moore, Pamela Anderson, and Hailey Bieber, was impressively only a few minutes long, while the shortest speech of the night was by none other than Kourtney Kardashian Barker (less than 20 seconds). The reality TV star and founder of vitamin and supplement line Lemme boasted the title of Wellness Entrepreneur of the Year.

However, the laureate’s brevity may have been due to a lack of preparation. “I heard there won’t be any speeches tonight, so I’ll keep it very short and simple,” Bieber said while accepting the Style Pioneer Award.

The WWD Style Awards primarily celebrated the behind-the-scenes people in Hollywood who create magic for A-list stars, including stylists Erin Walsh and Jason Bolden, make-up artist Gucci Westman, hairstylist Adir Abergel and facialist Lord Gavin McLeod-Valentine. Standing as cheerleaders alongside these artists were Cameron Diaz, Emily Blunt, Mindy Kaling, Kristen Stewart, and Tiliq Withers.

Demi Moore laments not being able to take photos of her dog Pilaf and George Clooney

Fashion icon Demi Moore poetically described fashion as “a place to express yourself” and tell a story in a different way. But she also teased some less glamorous moments that aren’t usually caught on camera.

“As[stylist]Brad[Goreski]says, if you let me, I dress like a 12-year-old boy,” the “Substance” actress said. Then she screamed at someone else who was almost always by her side: her little Chihuahua.

“I’m sorry I didn’t bring Pilaf tonight. I just got a message saying I missed the chance to take a picture with her and George,” Moore told the crowd. “We are writing a book about Pilaf and her key subordinates.”

Switching to a more serious tone, she spoke of her desire to embrace herself in the new year.

“My hope for 2026 is that we continue to accept who we are. We don’t have to be different,” Moore said. “The most beautiful part of us is just being our unique, imperfect selves.”

Hairstylist Adir Abergel jokes he almost made Kristen Stewart ‘bald’

Sitting between hairstylist Abergel and his wife Dylan Meyer, Kristen Stewart is seen in a pre-recorded video professing her love for the man, who is “like a brother, sister and best friend.”

Abergel responded to the compliment by calling Stewart, who recently released his directorial debut, The Chronology of Water, a “fearless artist” who isn’t afraid to go bald.

“Thank you so much for knowing me as a person so deeply that when I shave my head one day, bleach my roots before a premiere, or cut into my hair with kitchen scissors, people yell at me, ‘Listen! Why are you leaving her bald? What’s wrong here?'” he said. “You are my collaborator in life. You are an absolutely fearless artist and an icon.”

The career, which began with Abergel sitting in a salon chair at age 16, “has given me a dream life.”

“In a world that often dictates norms and conventions, I am inspired every day by people who dare to be different, embrace their individuality, and tell their own stories in their own style,” Abergel said.

What you need to know before buying a Jeep Wagoneer S

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What you need to know before buying a Jeep Wagoneer S

Eric Johnson
|Motor Trend

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Strong Points

  1. paradoxically fun
  2. Really cool rear wing
  3. Cool interior lighting too

Cons

  1. dichotomous ride
  2. Real-world EV range and charging
  3. need to choose lane

Wagoneer S Jeep’s first fully electric SUV, launched in the premium midsize market to compete with EVs from BMW, Tesla, Mercedes, and others. Smaller than the ICE-powered Wagoneer and powered by dual motors delivering 500 horsepower, it departs from Jeep’s traditional off-road focus and emphasizes speed, style, and quietness. Despite this (or perhaps because of it), the Wagoneer S can’t help but let its weirdness shine through.

For example, while most performance SUVs slam into submission, the Wagoneer S’s ride has a squishy yet firm lumpiness that reminds you of your great-grandmother’s mashed potatoes or a memory foam mattress on a gravel road. It’s clear that Jeep’s suspension is trying to do two things at once: poise and luxury, but it doesn’t quite get it done either. With large, loose undulations, the body begins to bounce, as if the damper has come off. On fast, sharp bumps, it suddenly punches in with a choppy jolt that feels out of sync with the refined serenity of electric driving.

Is the interior of Wagoneer S good?

At least the interior looks nice. Jeep’s designers seem to have studied luxury lighting like sommeliers study grapes. There’s an ambient strip that glows like twilight, and the Macintosh speaker grilles are illuminated in a soft blue, creating the feel of an upscale lounge and home theater. Looks rich.

Of course there are problems. The bottom touchscreen with temperature control is the answer to the question no one asked. As far as we know, most of what it does can be handled by the top screen, and the bottom screen can only be recovered by flipping up and hiding. The only useful part of this screen is the temperature slider, which remains visible when folded. This is a small advantage.

In case you missed it: How the Cadillac Escalade IQ became GM’s fastest-developed luxury SUV

The seats are large, inviting and generally comfortable. However, it feels a little overstuffed, and every shift can make long drives more tiring. There’s plenty of room for all passengers, but given the S’s small size, it’s not quite as roomy as the Wagoneer name suggests. On the plus side, rear seat access is good.

As for storage, a small full rank on the front can hold a charging cable or 24 packs of cans, but not much else. Additionally, the key fob has no release button and is not powered, making it more of a novelty than anything else. The rear cargo floor is a little high, but there’s plenty of room for a family of four, with bonus storage space underneath.

Speed, even more speed

Jeep has given the Wagoneer S some serious electric grunt. Dual permanent magnet motors (201 horsepower front, 335 horsepower rear) combine to deliver 500 horsepower and 524 pound-feet of torque. That’s enough to accelerate the 5,724-pound SUV to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, making it faster than most gas-guzzling muscle cars.

Well, it’s very fast, I feel that way. When you press the accelerator, the Wagoneer S lurches forward like a bolt of lightning, hurtling toward the horizon and into the driver’s seat. The steering is almost silent in corners, and it feels light in your hands when you press the right pedal on a straightaway, but the old-fashioned fun of the Wagoneer S’s tires fighting for grip is something most EVs still can’t manage. Most electric SUVs are too polite and too digital, but this one has a slightly wilder side.

Even if that wasn’t Jeep’s intention, it certainly tickles our pleasure centers. Well, when it’s not even a little scary. In cold weather or on less grippy pavement, searching for grip can feel like you’re losing control. Still, it’s oddly fascinating if you know what happens. If you live in an area with four seasons, just budget for winter tires.

What’s less appealing is the regenerative braking system’s habit of resetting to a lower speed every time you start the SUV. We prefer one-pedal driving, but re-selecting high every time is a pain. Friction brakes are very powerful and can be difficult to operate because they apply the brakes as soon as you stop. If you don’t understand, your neck may break a little just right.

Cruising distance, charging amount, and performance numbers

The 94.9 kWh lithium-ion battery gives it an EPA-rated range of 494 miles, and we’d love to see it hit that mark. The Wagoneer S returned just 345 miles in our 110 mph road trip range test, but you’ll get even less if you exert that performance too often. DC fast charging isn’t very good either, adding 81 miles in 15 minutes and 138 miles in 30 minutes. At least you can kill time by explaining, “No, your Jeep doesn’t have an engine, and no, it shouldn’t actually go off-road,” thank you.

In case you missed it: 2026 Toyota bZ delivers more power, longer range and faster charging

On back roads, the Wagoneer S feels more broad-shouldered than agile. Fully capable, but by no means enthusiastic. You drive like a big, heavy car that happens to go fast, so you have to do a lot of planning on turn-in and how wise to accelerate on corner exit.

The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S isn’t the most refined of its contemporaries, and it can’t decide whether it wants to be an adorable luxury SUV or a wild-child Dodge. If it sounds like we liked the Wagoneer S, but we didn’t, you’d be right. It’s fast, it’s flawed, it’s fun, it’s a little confusing, and it’s very confusing. If this sounds interesting and you can deal with the limited range and slow fast charging, you’ll probably find a good deal.

2025 Jeep Wagoneer S Limited 4xe specifications
Basic price $67,195
tested price $71,790
vehicle layout Front and rear motors, AWD, 5-pass, 4-door electric SUV
power train F: Permanent magnet motor, 201 hp, 314 lb-ft R: Permanent magnet motor, 335 hp, 314 lb-ft
total power 500 horsepower
total torque 524 pound-feet
transmission 2×1 speed fixed ratio
battery 94.9kWh NMC Lithium Ion
Vehicle weight (F/R distance) £5,724 (51/49%)
wheelbase 113.0 inches
Length x width x height 192.4 x 74.8 x 64.8 inches
tire Falken Siix CT60 A/S 235/50R20 104H XL M+S
EPA Fuel Economy, City/Highway/Combined 100/85/93mpg-e
EPA range 494 miles
70 mph road trip range 345 miles
MT quick charging test 81 miles in 15 minutes, 138 miles in 30 minutes
On sale now
MotorTrend test results
0-60MPH 3.4 seconds
quarter mile 11.5 seconds at 193.3 mph
Brakes, 60-0 mph 131 feet
lateral acceleration 0.78g
figure eight wrap 27.1 seconds @ 0.72 g (average)

Photo credit: Jim Fetts

Where to watch NFL playoff games, inactive players, and picks.

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Where to watch NFL playoff games, inactive players, and picks.

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The Los Angeles Rams are looking for revenge against the NFL playoff team with the best chance of winning Super Bowl 60.

The Wild Card Round of the NFL Playoffs begins on Saturday, January 10th, with a rematch between the Carolina Panthers and Rams. The Panthers had a huge come-from-behind victory in the regular season against the Rams, one of the favorites to win this year’s Super Bowl.

The first time the teams met in Week 13, Carolina defeated Los Angeles at home, giving the Rams only their third loss of the season at that point.

Los Angeles will look to return the favor by returning to Charlotte, North Carolina for a second matchup. Quarterback Matthew Stafford will look to perform even better in the wild-card round after his worst performance of the season with two interceptions and a lost fumble last time out against the Panthers.

Follow USA TODAY Sports as we provide live score updates, highlights and more from the first game of the NFL postseason.

NFL news, opinion and fantasy advice: USA TODAY Sports presents NFL videocasts

Yes, Adams will officially be in Saturday’s game. He aggravated a hamstring injury in Week 15, causing him to miss the final three games of the regular season. The NFL’s leading touchdown scorer participated fully in practice on Tuesday and Wednesday in preparation for his return in the wild-card game.

The Rams announced seven inactive players for Saturday’s game against the Panthers. They are:

  • QB Stetson Bennett IV (emergency QB)
  • OL Kevin Dotson
  • TE Terrence Ferguson
  • CB Derion Kendrick
  • CB Josh Wallace
  • WR Jordan Whittington
  • CB Darius Williams

The Panthers announced five inactive players for Saturday’s game. They are:

  • LB Chris Barnes
  • DT Jared Harrison Hunt
  • WR David Moore
  • DL LaBryan Ray
  • C Nick Samak

Which TV channel is the Panthers vs. Rams game on?

Saturday’s Wild Card Round game (the first game of the NFL playoffs) between the Panthers and Rams will be broadcast on FOX on January 10th. The postseason matchup will feature Joe Davis (play-by-play), former Panthers tight end Greg Olsen (game analyst) and Pam Oliver (sideline reporter).

What time is the Rams vs. Panthers game?

The Panthers vs. Rams game will kick off on Saturday, January 10th at 4:30pm ET.

Panthers vs. Rams live stream

Cord cutters can watch the wild card matchup with a subscription to Fubo, which also offers a free trial.

Watch the NFL Playoffs on Fubo (Free Trial)

Panthers vs. Rams predictions, picks

USA TODAY Sports’ NFL experts are unanimous in giving the Rams a win in the first game of the NFL playoffs in the wild-card round.

  • mike middlehurst schwartz: Rams, 30-16
  • Jarrett Bell: Rams, 31 wins, 17 losses
  • Nick Brinkerhoff: Rams, 28-20
  • Chris Cotton: Rams, 28-21
  • Nate Davis: Rams, 27 wins, 17 losses
  • Tyler Dragon: Rams, 27-20

Panthers vs. Rams Odds, Moneyline, O/U

Powered by BetMGM Sportsbook. Visit the USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds Hub for the complete list. The line was last updated Thursday at 10:30 a.m. ET.

  • Against the spread (ATS): Rams -10.5 (-110) | Panthers +10.5 (-110)
  • Moneyline (ML): Rams -625 (bet $625 to win $100) | Panthers +450 (bet $100 to win $450)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 46.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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