Nike investigated over allegations of discrimination against white employees
The EEOC is investigating Nike over allegations of discrimination against white employees and cracking down on its diversity, equity and inclusion policies.
President Donald Trump is taking credit for a wholesale retreat by companies from diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. New research suggests he may be right.
Catalyst and the Meltzer Center on Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at New York University School of Law found that the administration’s efforts, not increased legal oversight, have been the driving force behind the rollback so far.
In the face of increasing political and regulatory pressure, 51% of federal contractors have reversed their DEI efforts in the past three years, according to a survey of 2,000 employees and managers.
With the 2023 Supreme Court ruling invalidating affirmative action in college admissions, employers now realize that DEI programs are likely to be the next big thing. But despite a growing number of lawsuits challenging the legality of some diversity programs, 52% of organizations without federal contracts are stepping up their efforts.
“While we expected there to be a difference in outcomes between federal contractors and non-federal contractors, we did not expect there to be such a disparity,” said David Glasgow, executive director of the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at New York University Law.
Companies have become more cautious since President Trump took office on a campaign promise to restore equity in the workplace by bulldozing through “woke” DEI policies that he says harm men and white Americans.
One of his first executive orders required federal contractors to certify that they are not operating “programs that promote DEI in violation of applicable federal antidiscrimination laws.”
Fearing investigations and the loss of government contracts, dozens of the nation’s largest companies, from McDonald’s to Facebook owner Meta, have scaled back their diversity programs.
Pressure to align with the president’s policies has only increased in recent months. In March, President Trump signed another executive order requiring federal agencies to prohibit discriminatory DEI practices. Under this directive, the Department of Justice is tasked with expediting the review of these cases.
Recent findings “suggest that the backlash is largely driven by the actions of the current administration and its relentless crackdown on federal contractors, meaning the political environment is a bigger factor than the legal environment,” Glasgow said.
The anti-DEI push hasn’t fared much better in court. In February, a federal court rejected a lawsuit by the Missouri attorney general’s office alleging that Starbucks’ diversity practices were unlawfully discriminatory. The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals this week ruled against a white correctional officer who claimed the Colorado Department of Corrections’ DEI training created a racially hostile work environment.
Glasgow said the Trump administration has been more effective and has assured him that “DEI-related activity will continue to be significantly suppressed for at least the next two-and-a-half years.”
Inclusion work continues to take place behind the scenes, the study found. More than half of employees say their employer has suggested they back off, but only a third have reversed their efforts.
A “new women’s club” took on the old boys. Now Trump wants to ban them
DEI proponents argue that companies maintain programs by adapting to changing legal and political landscapes. They open mentorship and coaching programs, job training activities, fellowships and internships to everyone, rather than restricting them to specific groups.
Half of employees and leaders surveyed want inclusion efforts to benefit all employees, and one-third want to prioritize the needs of marginalized employees in the workplace.
Catalyst and the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at New York University School of Law recommend “earned universalism.” This is a legal and effective approach that involves treating everyone equally while devising “identity-neutral” solutions to remove systemic barriers and biases.
The Powerball jackpot is set to get even bigger. A reporter will explain.
USA TODAY’s Fernando Cervantes explains the historic agreement with Britain’s National Lottery.
The Powerball jackpot has increased to $57 million with a cash value of $25.7 million ahead of the drawing on Monday, May 11th.
According to Powerball, the jackpot has been won nearly 200 times since the lottery’s inception in 1992. Currently, 48 lotteries in the United States participate in Powerball games, but five states do not offer Powerball games: Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah.
As of today, there have been seven Powerball jackpot winners this year, with prizes exceeding $850 million, according to Powerball. In the most recent jackpot held on May 2nd, two winners from Texas and Florida split the $20 million jackpot.
Here’s what you need to know about Monday night’s Powerball drawing.
What are the winning Powerball numbers for May 11th?
The winning numbers for Monday, May 11th’s Powerball drawing are 24, 30, 37, 56, 64 and the Powerball is 7. The “power play” multiplier is 3x.
Do I have to be a US citizen or resident to play Powerball?
The short answer is no. You don’t have 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.
Which Powerball number should you choose? Check out the number generator.
Top 10 Powerball Jackpots
$2.04 billion in California on November 7, 2022
December 24, 2025, $1.817 billion in Arkansas.
$1.787 billion in Missouri and Texas on September 6, 2025
$1.765 billion in California on October 11, 2023
January 13, 2016, $1.586 billion in California, Florida, and Tennessee
April 6, 2024, $1.326 billion in Oregon.
$1.08 billion in California on July 19, 2023
January 1, 2024, $842.4 million in Michigan.
March 27, 2019, $768.4 million in Wisconsin
August 23, 2017, $758.7 million in Massachusetts
Lottery trivia: Which state has the most lottery winners?
How to play Powerball
Powerball tickets cost $2 per play and are sold in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This can be done at a variety of locations, including local convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery stores.
In some states, you can purchase Powerball tickets online depending on the local jurisdiction.
Once you have your ticket, you have to choose six numbers. Five of them are white balls numbered from 1 to 69. The red Powerball range is 1-26. You can also add a “Power Play” for $1, which increases your winnings on all non-jackpot prizes.
“Power Play” multipliers can increase your winnings by 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, or 10x.
A “Quick Pick” option is also available if you want the computer to select the numbers for you. To win the jackpot, players must match all five white balls with the red Powerball in any order.
Powerball drawings are held on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday nights. The winnings continue to increase even if no one wins the jackpot.
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Contact us at fernando.cervantes@usatodayco.com and follow us at X @fern_cerv_.
Hailee Steinfeld welcomes first child with husband Josh Allen
Hailee Steinfeld and husband Josh Allen have welcomed their first child, a baby girl.
New mom Hailee Steinfeld is “absolutely obsessed.”
The 29-year-old “Sinners” actress shared her first Mother’s Day story about her baby girl with Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen.
“A day late but I’m just obsessed with this 💗,” she captioned a May 11 Instagram post.
The photos included a photo of a baby clutching the index finger of his left hand, a collection of Mother’s Day cards, a pancake breakfast, a “Happy Mother’s Day” cake, and a baby’s feet in an apple-print onesie.
The Oscar-nominated actress, who revealed her pregnancy in December, has kept most details of her family life private. She has shared milestones, including her engagement to Allen and the birth of her daughter on April 2, which she announced in the Beau Society newsletter.
Steinfeld and Allen, who began dating in 2023 and married in May 2025, have been each other’s biggest supporters for years.
“My wife is an incredible, undeniable rock star, both in her work and in her life as a person. She’s everything I need in my life,” Allen said in an interview with ESPN in October.
Ms. Steinfeld is known for attending some of her husband’s NFL games without much fanfare.
In an interview with Bustle magazine in November, she said: “The peace of mind that you have, that rock, that solid, consistent part of your life, is indescribable. I literally thank God every day that I found the person that I am. It’s the greatest thing in the world.”
She continued, “Life has meaning. Everything has meaning. I feel like I’ve been through so much being with him and I’m stepping into a version of what I’ve always dreamed of.”
Passengers on the cruise ship MV Hondius infected with the Andean variant of hantavirus have been evacuated to their homes, including 18 Americans who were taken to a military base in Omaha and then to a U.S. medical center.
The U.S. passengers left the ship, which was anchored near Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands, on May 10 and arrived in Nebraska on May 11 on a U.S. government medical repatriation flight.
Sixteen of those passengers were isolated at the University of Nebraska’s National Quarantine Center.
The remaining two people, a couple, were taken to Emory University Hospital in Atlanta. One of them had experienced hantavirus symptoms but tested negative for the virus.
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Spanish Health Minister Monica García said in a press conference that 94 passengers from 19 countries were evacuated from the ship on May 10, the first day of the evacuation.
Reuters said the passengers were taken from the ship to shore in small boats and transported by military buses to Tenerife’s airport without contact with the public.
Trump administration health officials said the hantavirus situation is under control.
Dr. Mehmet Oz, director of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, said at a press conference on May 11: “The country is ready, the CDC is focused on this issue, and CDC is very aware that we have an opportunity to really address this issue, not just prevent it in the future, but treat it when it happens.”
Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. added, “We have this under control and we are not worried.”
According to the World Health Organization, as of May 11, a total of nine cases, including three, have been linked to the hantavirus outbreak.
The latest case was reported by France and involved a passenger who disembarked the previous day, said Olivier Le Pollin, head of the WHO’s epidemiology and analysis division.
The MV Hondius set sail for the Netherlands on Monday night after evacuating passengers from nearly 20 countries, authorities reported.
Dr. Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, told USA TODAY that new cases could emerge as people prepare to leave for their home countries. But given the way the virus spreads, it’s unlikely to cause a broader outbreak, let alone a pandemic.
Still, public health experts say the current outbreak is a warning sign for the future of zoonotic diseases that jump from animals to humans.
“We must recognize the fact that zoonotic disease outbreaks are increasing in frequency and overall severity,” Hotez said.
“And it won’t be the last time.”
Contributors: Natalie Neysa Alland, Eduardo Cuevas, Melina Khan, Thao Nguyen, Ramon PadillaDaniel de Visseand Sean J. Sullivan.
Source: USA TODAY Network reporting and research. Reuters; World Health Organization Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
This is a developing story and may be updated.
Live updates: American cruise passenger tests positive for hantavirus
more: Amid concerns about the spread of hantavirus, here are the real risks of a pandemic
As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, it’s a good time to think about democracy.
The evolution of experimental democracy over the past 250 years has been remarkable.
Hy-Vee will expand its HomeFront initiative in May to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and honor veterans and service members.
Customers can donate their purchases in bulk to veterans support organizations, and Hy-Vee will match up to $100,000 in donations.
Veterans and active duty military personnel will receive free coffee every Wednesday and free breakfast on May 20th.
The company will also partner with the USO to distribute 5,000 care packages to military personnel.
To celebrate America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, Hy‑Vee will expand its Hy-Vee Homefront initiative, which honors veterans and active duty military personnel, throughout May.
Starting May 1, customers at Hy‑Vee stores can participate in the Hy-Vee Homefront Round Up by choosing to round their purchases to the nearest dollar to support organizations serving veterans, active duty military and their families, including the American Red Cross, Honor Flight Network, Hope for the Warriors, Operation First Response, and the Puppy Jake Foundation.
Hy‑Vee will also continue to match customer donations up to $100,000. In November 2024, Hy-Vee shoppers raised more than $200,000 in honor of Veterans Day. To date, total donations from all stores are $3,887,195.
Another initiative during the month of May is to provide weekly free coffee and hot meals to veterans and active duty personnel every Wednesday from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Hy‑Vee stores.
In case you missed it: U.S. shoppers say they trust these grocery stores the most
From 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. on May 20, these locations will offer veterans and active duty military members a complimentary breakfast buffet that includes eggs, biscuits, gravy, hash browns and more as a thank you.
In late May, Hy‑Vee will partner with the United Service Organization (USO), the nation’s leading organization serving active duty U.S. military personnel and their families, to distribute 5,000 hygiene and care package kits to deployed and active military personnel throughout the Midwest. The USO has been supporting the military community since 1941, operating more than 260 locations around the world and offering a wide range of programs from care package delivery to family support services.
These efforts build on the long-standing mission of Hy‑Vee Homefront, which was founded in 2013 to enhance support for veterans and military families. The program has donated more than $3.8 million to veterans’ nonprofit organizations and is known for its annual Veterans Day breakfast each November, funding for Honor Flight, and employee benefits for veterans and active duty military, according to a Hy-Vee press release.
“Hy-Vee is a company founded on a commitment to doing the right thing,” the Hy-Vee Homefront webpage states. “We are proud to be a supporter of these American heroes. But as a company that cares deeply about the communities and people we serve, we know we can do more. That is Hy-Vee Homefront’s mission.”
Vanessa Carlson Bender is the development and public health reporter for the Sioux Falls Argus Leader. Please contact us at vbender@gannett.com.
President Trump calls for countermeasures against hantavirus and withdrawal from WHO
President Trump defended the U.S. response to hantavirus, saying it was the right decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization.
A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on May 11 found that two-thirds of Americans say President Donald Trump has not made a clear call for war with Iran, and about the same number say they are feeling the economic pinch from rising gasoline prices due to the conflict.
Meanwhile, President Trump’s approval rating rose slightly in this poll to 36%, which is slightly lower than in some other recent polls. A Reuters/Ipsos poll in late April showed President Trump’s approval rating at 34%, the lowest point in his second term. The highest approval rating in this term’s poll was 47% in January 2025.
Monday’s poll, conducted May 8-11 among 1,254 adults nationwide, had a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.
According to Reuters, about 66% of those surveyed said President Trump has not “clearly explained” the United States’ military goals in Iran, and 63% said their finances have been affected by soaring gasoline prices.
According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline was $4.52 as of May 11, and in California it was more than $6.15.
The survey also found that 65% of respondents blamed Republicans for rising gas prices, while 27% blamed Democrats.
President Trump said Monday that he wants to suspend the federal gas tax, which currently adds 18.4 cents per gallon.
If you’re looking for a solid home warranty plan that can protect your major appliances and critical systems, Choice HomeWarranty and Liberty Home Guard are two options worth considering.
Here’s what you need to know about Choice HomeWarranty and Liberty Home Guard, including coverage, costs, and customer experience, to find the best home warranty for your home.
Which is right for you: Choice HomeWarranty or Liberty Home Guard?
It depends on your priorities. If you only need the most basic plan and want to keep costs as affordable as possible, Choice Home Insurance has lower monthly premiums than Liberty Home Guard. However, if you want to choose the most comprehensive coverage and a wealth of add-ons, Liberty Home Guard offers a more affordable top-tier plan. Note that LHG has lower coverage limits.
Also, when comparing options, don’t just focus on price. “Also shop based on reputation, service, and warranty terms,” says Ben Schachter, a real estate broker and president of Signature Real Estate Companies. “The goal is to choose a home warranty company that has a track record of responding quickly to repairs and paying claims quickly.”
The last thing you want to do is pay for coverage that doesn’t show up when you actually need it, so take your time to ask questions and read the fine print.
Choice HomeWarranty and Liberty Home Guard Overview
Choice Homewarranty and Liberty Home Guard cater to different homeowner priorities, so the better option really depends on what you value most.
Choice Home guarantees are known for their simplicity and affordability. There are only two plan options. And despite the limited tiers, the coverage is pretty solid and the prices are more affordable than many of its competitors. We also offer up to $3,000 in coverage per item, which is more than most other providers.
Liberty Home Guard is more flexible than Choice. It offers three tiers of plans and over 40 add-ons, giving you more control over what’s included. If you have specialty or high-end appliances or want to tailor your coverage to your home, Liberty Home Guard may be a stronger option.
home warranty provider
Number of plans
average plan cost
Upper limit of scope
Annual compensation limit
choice home guarantee
2
$47 to $57 per month
$3,000 per eligible item
Unlimited (maximum compensation per item)
liberty home security guard
3
$55-65 per month
$2,000 per eligible item
Unlimited (maximum compensation per item)
Choice and Liberty Home Guard plans and coverage
Plan options
The main difference between these companies is how the basic plan is structured. Choice Homewarranty combines coverage for both systems and appliances in its basic plan, while Liberty Home Guard separates them.
Choice Homewarranty offers only two plans: the Basic Plan, which covers most home systems, and the Total Plan, which covers everything.
Basic plan: This basic plan covers your home’s major systems, including the heating system, electrical system, plumbing system, water heater, Jacuzzi tub, oven/range/stove, cooktop, built-in microwave, garbage disposal, ductwork, garage door opener, and exhaust fan.
Total plan: This more comprehensive plan includes everything in the basic plan, plus air conditioning, refrigerator, and clothes washer/dryer.
Liberty Home Guard comes in three plans: Standard Appliance Only, System Only, and Combo Plan.
Appliance Guard: This appliance-only plan covers many major kitchen and common appliances, including washers, dryers, refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers, garbage disposals, ventilation fans, and more.
System guard: Systems-only plans cover major home systems such as air conditioning, heating systems, ductwork, plumbing systems, electrical systems, and water heaters.
Total home security: This is Liberty Home Guard’s most comprehensive plan, covering everything in the Systems Guard and Appliance Guard plans.
Add-on options
What sets Liberty Home Guard apart is its add-on coverage. Customize your plan with over 40 add-on items, including coverage for commonly excluded luxury appliances. Here are some of the many options available:
pest control
carpet cleaning
water softener
lawn sprinkler system
swamp cooler
ejector pump
pool and spa
purification system
drain pump
well pump
central vacuum
freestanding freezer
Roof leakage range
lighting equipment
electronics
rekey
cleaning the gutters
second refrigerator
garbage compactor
grinder pump
Water server water supply line
instant water heater
reverse osmosis water filter system
Window cleaning/cleaning
Ice maker (in the refrigerator or freestanding)
wine cooler
generator
plumbing fixtures
guest unit
TV installation
power washing
Maintenance of air conditioning equipment
Choice offers 11 add-on options, which is significantly less than Liberty Home Guard’s 40+ choices. Here’s what you can do to customize your plan:
Pool/spa equipment
Limited roof leakage
additional spa
freestanding freezer
central vacuum
sprinkler system
second refrigerator
well pump
purification system
drain pump
Septic tank pumping
Coverage limitations
Choice Home Insurance has more competitive coverage limits compared to Liberty Home Guard. Choice typically offers up to $3,000 per eligible item, while Liberty Home Guard’s cap is typically around $2,000 per appliance or system.
Exclusions
Like most home warranty providers, Choice and LHG both exclude pre-existing conditions. This means that if your appliance or system was not working properly before coverage began, repairs or replacements will not be covered. It also does not cover problems caused by improper installation or surface damage.
Be sure to check your contract for a complete breakdown of what is excluded.
Compare the costs of Choice Home Warranty and Liberty Home Guard
planned cost
Choice Home Insurance’s monthly premiums range from $47 to $57, while Liberty Home Guard plans typically cost $55 to $65 per month.
additional cost
Liberty Home Guard add-ons typically cost between $5 and $36 per month. Choice Homewarranty add-ons are a little more affordable, ranging from $3.33 to $15 per month.
Service call fee
Choice’s service call fee is always $100, while Liberty Home Guard’s service fee ranges from $50 to $125, depending on your location.
discount options
Choice HomeWarranty may offer seasonal promotions and sales. Currently, when you purchase an annual home warranty plan, you get your first month free.
When using Liberty Home Guard, the best way to get a discount is to purchase a multi-year plan. If you sign up for a year, you get an extra month free, so if you choose the 3-year plan, you get 3 months free. American Legion members receive a $225 annual discount on the Liberty Home Guard Home Warranty Plan, as well as three months of free bonus coverage each year.
more: Save hundreds of dollars on home repairs with the cheapest home warranty
Choice HomeWarranty and Liberty Home Guard claims process
Choice HomeWarranty and Liberty Home Guard both offer 24/7 online claims processing, but the experiences are slightly different.
With Choice Home Warranty, you request service and submit a claim through our customer portal. An email address and policy number are required to enter the portal. The provider claims that it will contact the service provider within 4 hours of receiving the request and that the contractor will contact you within 48 hours thereafter.
To file a home warranty claim with Liberty Home Guard, you can contact our customer service center, log into our customer portal, or use our mobile app to file a claim. Once you submit your claim, you will pay the service fees listed in your contract. Liberty Home Guard will then schedule a technician to come to your home within 48 hours of receiving your claim. Please note that Liberty Home Guard requires a 30-60 day waiting period before you are eligible to file a claim.
Choice HomeWarranty and Liberty Home Guard homeowner reviews
Customer feedback for both companies is quite mixed, which is not unusual in the home warranty industry.
Liberty Home Guard receives positive reviews for its comprehensive coverage and flexibility. Many also praised the company’s excellent customer service and clear communication. However, some customers report occasional delays in contractor availability and having to reschedule their reservations multiple times.
Although Choice has a slightly lower Trustpilot rating, many customers like the fact that Choice Homewarranty is affordable and it’s easy to choose a plan. That said, we also saw a significant number of comments mentioning strict exclusions and slow claims processing during peak periods, which could be a deal breaker for some homeowners.
housing guarantee company
Trustpilot rating (stars)
Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings
liberty home security guard
4.4
D-
choice home guarantee
4.0
B
Trustpilot and BBB data is accurate as of May 2026.
Availability of Choice vs. Liberty Home Guard
Choice Homewarranty sells plans in 49 states, excluding only Washington state. Liberty Home Guard is available in all 50 states, but terms and conditions vary by state.
How USA Today ranks Choice HomeWarranty and Liberty Home Guard
The USA TODAY team independently ranks and reviews all home warranty companies using an in-house methodology that compares costs, plans, coverage, exclusions, and more.
FAQ
How much does Liberty Home Guard charge per claim?
Liberty Home Guard typically charges a service call fee that ranges from $50 to $125, but the cost quoted may vary by location.
What do customer complaints say about the Choice Home warranty?
Customer complaints regarding the Choice Home warranty were primarily related to claim denials, slow response times, and disputes over coverage. However, these are common to most home warranty companies.
Can I cancel Liberty Home Guard?
Yes, you can cancel your Liberty Home Guard home warranty at any time. To do this, log into your online customer portal and select the (Policy Details) tab. There you will find a link titled “Cancel Coverage.” You can also call (833) 545-7333 or email accounts@libertyhomeguard.co.
Secret Service investigates former FBI Director James Comey’s ‘8647’ post
Former FBI Director James Comey posted an image of the number 8647, sparking outrage as some saw it as a call for violence.
Former FBI Director James Comey said he expected President Donald Trump’s Justice Department to try to indict him a third time if the latest case against him fails.
“Donald Trump has an unfathomable desire to take revenge on those who have criticized him,” Comey said in an interview on MS NOW on May 11, his first interview since his second indictment. “And I’m not going to stop criticizing him because I think that’s what we need to do if we care about America. So that criticism will continue.”
On April 28, the Justice Department secured an indictment from a federal grand jury in North Carolina alleging that Comey threatened to harm or kill Trump in May 2025 when he posted an image of a seashell with “8647” written on it on Instagram.
According to Merriam-Webster, “86” is a slang term meaning “to throw away” or “to get rid of.” Mr. Trump is the 47th president of the United States.
Some Trump supporters interpreted the post as a threat against the president.
Comey deleted the post within hours and said in a new post that he “didn’t realize that some people were associating these numbers with violence.” He said he deleted the original post because he opposed “violence of all kinds.”
Mr. Comey said in a May 11 interview that he was hopeful that Mr. Trump would be able to find prosecutors willing to target those he perceives as his enemies, even if some prosecutors refuse.
“There’s still an apple at the bottom of every barrel, so he’ll find someone to do what he wants to do,” Comey said. “They’re going to keep working on this because that’s what their bosses want. Once this case goes down, I’m sure they’ll come up with something else.”
The Justice Department and the White House did not respond to requests for comment.
This is the second lawsuit brought by the Trump administration against the former FBI director, who became a fierce critic of the president after he was fired from office in 2017 amid the FBI’s investigation into ties between the 2016 presidential campaign and the Russian government.
In September, the Justice Department secured an indictment from a federal grand jury in Virginia alleging that Comey lied to Congress, an allegation that Comey denied. The case was dismissed after a judge ruled that the prosecutor who brought the case, Mr. Trump’s former personal lawyer with no prosecutorial experience, was illegally appointed. The Department of Justice appealed this decision.
Both lawsuits came after President Trump specifically called for criminal charges against Comey in a September Truth social post.
Under the current Trump administration, the Justice Department has repeatedly sought charges against Comey as well as New York Attorney General Letitia James, another clear target of Trump. The initial charges against James were dismissed along with the charges against Comey, and the Justice Department made at least two more attempts to secure charges against her but failed.
The department is also investigating people hostile to President Trump, including Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, Federal Reserve Chairman Lisa Cook, and six other members of Congress who encouraged military personnel to disobey potentially illegal orders.
Comey said on May 11 that he would not be surprised if another lawsuit was filed against him in the coming days or weeks.
“I told my family, ‘Donald Trump is so attached to me and other people that this situation will only go away when he leaves office,'” he said. “He’s not going to let it go.”
Court ruling could result in millions of dollars in IRS coronavirus tax refunds
A federal court ruling has brought back the issue of COVID-19-era taxes and could leave some Americans owed refunds.
The IRS is not advertising that tens of millions of taxpayers may be owed large IRS refunds from the COVOD-19 era, but tax advisors are spilling the beans on how to get those refunds.
Last November’s court ruling in Kwon v. United States suggests that some penalties and interest imposed during the nearly three-and-a-half-year federal disaster period caused by COVID-19 may have been inappropriate, meaning taxpayers may be entitled to refunds or reductions in those amounts.
The IRS is likely staying silent on the matter because it disagrees with the ruling, and the independent National Tax Advocate (NTA) within the IRS said in a blog post that it expects the Justice Department to appeal the ruling. So, while a refund is not guaranteed, there is no time to wait as the claim deadline is July 10th.
“Even if the IRS disagrees, Kwon In light of this decision, I believe we have a duty to inform taxpayers of their rights. “This will ensure that taxpayers do not miss their claim deadlines if the final resolution of this matter supports their right to refund or relief of interest and penalties,” the IRS said in a blog post.
If the ruling stands, taxpayers will have until July 10 to submit requests for refunds or reductions, experts said. By law, a taxpayer has only three years from the time the return is filed or two years from the time the tax is paid, whichever is later, to request a refund or reduction of penalties or interest. The court ruling suggests the tax deadline will be moved to July 10, 2023, so July 10, 2026, three years from that date, will be the last day a potential refund or reduction claim can be held, tax lawyers said.
“Millions of taxpayers could potentially qualify, but if they don’t file by July 10, 2026, they will lose the possibility of a refund or reduction,” said John Wasser, a partner at Fox Rothschild who specializes in tax matters.
Who is eligible for a refund or reduction?
According to the NTA, all taxpayers are eligible, including individuals, small and medium-sized enterprises, large corporations, estates and trusts.
“This issue extends to taxpayers with obligations related to income tax, employment tax, inheritance tax, gift tax, and excise tax,” the IRS said. “Taxpayers who file international information declarations late may also be affected and may be subject to significant penalties even if they do not owe any tax.”
How do I know if I’m eligible?
Use your IRS tax return to see if you owe money, experts say.
IRS tax account records show tax information for each year, including filing status, taxable income, and adjustments made after the original return was processed. It also displays the dates on which payments, penalties, and interest were made or assessed.
If the IRS charges interest or penalties between January 20, 2020 and July 11, 2023, taxpayers may consider filing a refund claim.
According to the IRS, tax account records can be viewed, printed, and downloaded online by registering using a personal online account, or by mail. Americans can order by mail through the IRS website or by calling the automated telephone transcription service at 800-908-9946. Arrives within 5-10 calendar days.
How do I file a claim?
Wasser said a tax professional can file a claim on a taxpayer’s behalf, or a taxpayer can use information from their tax return to file a claim using IRS Form 843, Claim for Refund and Claim for Abatement.
Lawyers say taxpayers should clearly indicate on the form that they are claiming protection under Section 7508A(d) and Kwon v. United States regarding the COVID-19 disaster period.
“You’re basically saying to the IRS, ‘I have a refund claim, please hold on to it for now,’ until the case is finalized,” Wasser said. Once all litigation is complete and the IRS is required to issue a refund, you have retained the right to claim your rights.
Taxpayers are not required to file separate forms for each tax year, but must identify the specific tax year involved, the Internal Revenue Service said.
Medora Lee is USA TODAY’s money, markets and personal finance reporter. Please contact us at mjlee@usatoday.com. Subscribe to our free Daily Money newsletter for personal finance tips and business news every Monday through Friday.
President Trump orders reflecting pool to be painted ‘American flag blue’
President Trump has slammed the reflecting pool outside the Lincoln Memorial as a “disgusting place” and ordered it painted “American flag blue.”
A nonprofit group is suing the Trump administration, alleging that renovations to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool violate federal law.
The Cultural Landscape Foundation (TCLF) filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of the Interior on Monday, May 11, specifically targeting the application of blue paint to the reflecting pool. The pool is approximately 2,000 feet long and 160 feet wide and is located along the central axis of the National Mall between the Lincoln Memorial on the west and the Washington Monument on the east.
This landmark and its surrounding landscape are listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the National Mall Historic District.
What are nonprofits looking for?
The group is calling for a temporary suspension of the agency’s activities, effectively halting operations that began in mid-April. Both the Reflecting Pool and the National Mall are managed by the National Park Service.
A news release announcing the lawsuit states, “As a significant defining feature of this site on the National Register of Historic Places, changing the color of the reflecting pool should be subject to review under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and other laws.”
The law requires government agencies to be consulted before making changes to historic properties.
“We are proud of the work the Park Service is doing to ensure this magical spot can be enjoyed not only for its 250th year, but for generations to come,” the Interior Department said in an emailed statement.
What kind of renovation work is being carried out?
President Donald Trump unveiled plans to renovate the pool in April, saying it had received complaints about its uncleanliness and leaking water from its foundation. He said contractors will spend $1.5 million to sandblast the bottom, caulk and repave the surface to look like an industrial pool, according to a previous report by USA TODAY.
The project was awarded a $6.9 million no-bid contract to Atlantic Industrial Coatings, which was working on President Trump’s Trump National Golf Club in Sterling, Virginia, according to the complaint. The revelation was first reported by the New York Times.
Most of the proposed projects involved painting the bottom “American flag blue” as part of President Trump’s city beautification plan ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The reflecting pool basin was previously painted neutral and gray.
The interior ministry said the dark color would make the pool more reflective than the existing gray concrete, which “accumulates algae and becomes slimy green.”
According to the police, before the bottom of the pool was made of concrete, it was made of black asphalt, and the water was dyed black to improve reflection. The agency says the pool leaks 16 million gallons of water a year.
The original colors have been a feature of the landmark since it opened in 1924, according to TCLF.
The colors created the illusion of greater depth and deeper reflections, said the nonprofit group, which cited the National Park Service’s Cultural Landscape Report published in August 1999. The original pond was constructed of asphalt-coated membrane, slate, and concrete tiles.
“This was a disgusting place”: President Trump makes surprise visit to Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
“The gray neutral basin is not a utilitarian feature of the reflecting pool, but rather an intentional design choice integral to the pool’s historic character and function,” the complaint states.
Work on the reflecting pool and other facilities at the Lincoln Memorial was previously subject to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, which required federal agencies to evaluate the project’s effects on historic properties.
Charles A. Birnbaum, president and CEO of TCLF, said the bluish basin is “better suited for resorts and theme parks.” The company that did the work is a pool contractor, according to the complaint.
Trump and his motorcade made a surprise appearance on Thursday, May 7, as they rode horses through the now-empty pool.
Michelle Del Rey is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Please contact mdelrey@usatoday.com.
Hot weather can be dangerous for pets. These tips will help keep your furry friend cool and safe.
Severe temperature swings have been common across the Midwest and Northeast this spring, and forecasts for the next week or so indicate that trend will continue.
First, cooler weather will spread from Minnesota to Massachusetts and everywhere in between on May 11 and 12, according to AccuWeather.
“For those in parts of the Midwest and interior Northeast who are itching to get out in the garden and grow some plants in the ground, a wave of cold air moving south from Canada into the middle of this week could put those plans on hold,” AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham said in an email to USA TODAY.
But warmth is on the way. Forecasters said whiplash weather will occur later this week and into the weekend as many parts of the east soon bid farewell to the cool days of May and give way to summer-like heat.
While the East will be shivering for much of the week, a heatwave is expected in the West with well-above-average or record-breaking temperatures, with highs in the 110s in the valleys of Southern California and Arizona.
Freezing then warm east
More than 1 million people in parts of the East were under frost and freeze warnings as of Tuesday morning, May 12, according to the National Weather Service.
By Tuesday morning, the coldest temperatures are expected from the eastern Great Lakes, interior Northeast and Catskills to West Virginia, according to AccuWeather.
“If the winds are weak enough, even near the suburbs of some large cities like Buffalo, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh, there will be a risk of damaging frost,” AccuWeather senior meteorologist Bill Degar said in an online forecast.
The National Weather Service in Pittsburgh had some good news for warm-weather lovers during an online forecast discussion. “The Climate Prediction Center’s outlook for the rest of May favors warm conditions, with no other frosty mornings in the current forecast.”
In fact, much of the second half of the month will feel like late spring, if not warmer, according to AccuWeather’s long-range forecast team.
“Dangerous” Western fever
A heat wave in the West will reach record heights this week, with some of that heat spreading to the plains later this week, according to online forecasts from Weather.com.
AccuWeather said daytime highs of 90 to 100 degrees are common in many areas, with some areas reaching a “dangerous” 110 degrees. Temperatures in Phoenix and Palm Springs, California, are expected to reach the 110s for the first time this year, according to AccuWeather.
The National Weather Service in Phoenix warned, “Heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat. Overexposure can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion, which, without intervention, can lead to heat stroke.”
AccuWeather meteorologist Elizabeth Danko said in an online forecast that early season heat is especially dangerous because many people are not yet accustomed to these temperatures, so people are urged to practice heat protection.
“Staying hydrated, wearing light-colored clothing, and taking breaks in the shade are some ways to stay safe in the heat,” Danko says.
Weather.com meteorologist Rob Shackelford said the heat could spread across the central United States by the end of next week, with temperatures as high as 90 degrees possible in the south-central Plains and parts of the country as far north as Nebraska.
“Omaha, Kansas City and Wichita could set new daily record highs,” he said.
more: The mild weather of May will not last long. Significant global warming is expected
severe weather forecast
Although no major severe weather events are expected this week, forecasters said several severe storms could develop across the Southeast and Midwest.
Isolated severe storms with locally damaging wind gusts and hail are possible from the Carolina coast to the Florida Peninsula and along the central Gulf Coast on Monday afternoon, May 11, according to the Storm Prediction Center.
Isolated severe storms with strong wind gusts and hail are possible in the Plains and Midwest by Tuesday, May 12, according to the SPC.
And on Wednesday, May 13, the SPC said, “Isolated severe storms are possible in the Ohio Valley and central Appalachians on Wednesday.”
The Dr Pepper Museum in Waco, Texas, unveiled the world’s largest Dr Pepper bottle to celebrate its 35th anniversary.
America is best known for its quirky roadside attractions, and one of the country’s oldest and most iconic soda brands has joined the party.
The official Dr. Pepper Museum in Waco, Texas, about 160 miles south of Dallas, unveiled the world’s largest Dr. Pepper bottle on May 9 to celebrate the museum’s 35th anniversary.th Anniversary.
“As the home of Dr. Pepper, we are excited to add another icon to Waco’s skyline,” Dr. Pepper Museum CEO and President Chris Dyer said in a statement. “This bottle isn’t just big; it’s a bold tribute to the spirit of invention that started here and continues to inspire visitors from around the world.”
Drink for summer: Dr Pepper Creamy Coconut is back for a limited time
History of Dr Pepper bottles
The installation doesn’t actually contain soda, it’s made of fiberglass and stands 23 feet tall.
Each side captures two different eras of Dr Pepper’s 140-year history, including the brand’s “Modern Style” popularized in the 1960s and the “Vim, Vigor, Vitality” logo that adorned bottles from the mid-1800s to the turn of the century.
“Together, these designs tell the story of 140 years of refreshment history and reflect the enduring connection between Waco and America’s oldest major soft drink, first offered in 1885,” the museum wrote when announcing the new attraction.
“America is ready for a bite”: Sausage inspired by Dr. Pepper? When you can try “Carbonated Grizzly”.
From Waco to the world
The world’s largest Dr Pepper bottle is made possible by a $1 million donation from the Hillman Family Foundation, which represents the senior care organization Cornerstone Caregiving.
“As a lifelong Waco native for more than 40 years, I have always been extremely proud of Waco as the birthplace of Dr. Pepper and the great work the Dr. Pepper Museum does in telling its story,” said Michael Hillman, co-founder of Cornerstone and member of the Hillman Family Foundation.
Autumn Outlaw, director of development and marketing for the Dr Pepper Museum, praised the brand’s contribution to America’s vast roadside attractions in an interview with local TV station KWTX.
“People are always looking for fun things to do, and roadside attractions are one of them, so we wanted to provide that, and we wanted to do it here in downtown Waco in an iconic way,” Outlaw said.
Stephen Colbert weighs in on replacing CBS’ ‘Late Show’ slot
Stephen Colbert congratulated Byron Allen after CBS announced the comic would take over the 11:35 p.m. slot on “The Late Show.”
Jimmy Kimmel is trying to keep Stephen Colbert in the spotlight as CBS’ “The Late Show” comes to an end.
The late-night comedian plans to show respect for Colbert by not airing new episodes of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Colbert’s final “Late Show” took place on Thursday, May 21, USA TODAY has learned.
The news was first reported by LateNighter. Kimmel told the outlet that he would not appear on that night’s broadcast out of respect for Colbert. The comic is otherwise not on hiatus from “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” That week, as new episodes are still scheduled for May 18th through May 20th on ABC.
Kimmel made a similar decision in 2015, deciding not to air new episodes opposite David Letterman’s final “Late Show” on CBS. “I have so much respect for Dave that nothing can distract viewers from watching his last show,” Kimmel told The New York Times. “And you’ll probably be crying all day, which will make your work harder.”
Perhaps the same is true for Kimmel as his friend Colbert prepares to exit “The Late Show.” CBS canceled the long-running late-night show in July, citing financial pressures.
Kimmel will also appear on “The Late Show” on May 11, along with fellow late-night hosts Jimmy Fallon, Seth Meyers and John Oliver. In 2023, the comedians all came together to host the podcast Strike Force Five while their shows were shut down due to the writers’ strike.
when is stephen colbert Last show? What you need to know about the final “Late Show”
Kimmel and Colbert have expressed admiration and respect for each other over the years, even appearing as guests on each other’s shows.
In September, Kimmel stopped by “The Late Show” to share the story of how he was suspended for comments he made after Charlie Kirk’s murder. The same day, Colbert appeared on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and told his story about learning that “The Late Show” had been canceled.
“We met a little over two weeks ago, and I don’t think I’ve ever been happier than when I missed out on the Emmys,” Kimmel told Colbert. Colbert’s “Late Show” won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Talk Series in September.
Kimmel also told Colbert that she was “absolutely shocked” when she learned that “The Late Show” was being canceled, adding, “That’s not right.”
For his part, Colbert told Kimmel he was “very happy” to be on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Broadcasting has resumed after a short period of suspension.
“To know you well means to respect you deeply,” Colbert said, adding, “We’ve known each other for over 20 years, but it’s only been in the last few years that we’ve really gotten to know each other, and I’ve gotten to know you better.” Because the more I know you, the more I respect you. And what I didn’t know is that you’re an interesting person!
Is political comedy dead? What Trump and Kimmel’s latest feud means
Colbert’s last two weeks of broadcasts will also include a May 14 appearance by Letterman, who hosted “The Late Show” before Colbert took over in 2015. Letterman has been a vocal critic of CBS’ decision to cancel the show.
The state’s Democratic leaders asked the high court to intervene after the Virginia Supreme Court blocked the publication of new maps favoring Democrats.
Democrats face major redistricting setbacks in Tennessee and Virginia
Democrats face redistricting setbacks following a Virginia Supreme Court ruling and newly approved Tennessee congressional maps.
WASHINGTON – Virginia is the latest state to ask the Supreme Court for emergency help to change its congressional maps before the fall elections.
Democratic leaders in the state Legislature asked the high court to intervene on May 11 after the state Supreme Court last week struck down a voter-approved measure that allowed lawmakers to draw maps that favor Democrats.
A state court ruled the new map is illegal because lawmakers failed to follow proper procedures when proposing an amendment to the state constitution.
The Virginia Democratic Party asked the high court to put the ruling on hold.
“The Virginia Supreme Court has deprived voters, candidates, and the commonwealth of their right to lawfully established congressional districts by forcing them to conduct Congressional elections using districts different from those adopted by the General Assembly pursuant to the constitutional amendment that the people just ratified,” Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones said in the filing.
Democrats relied on redistricting efforts to counter map changes in other states that favored Republicans.
The unusual election-year battle to draw new maps ahead of the decennial census mandate began in Texas, where state lawmakers responded to President Donald Trump’s request to rearrange the maps.
This effort was further strengthened by the Supreme Court’s April 29 decision weakening Voting Rights Act protections for minorities.
The state of Louisiana, which is at the heart of the decision, successfully asked a judge this month to expedite the final decision to give it time to draw new maps favorable to Republicans.
And in Alabama, a court filing is pending that would clear the way for the state to use maps that exclude Democratic-majority black districts.
In its latest request, Virginia argues that the state Supreme Court misread federal election law in blocking the new maps and also rejected the plain text of the state constitution’s election definition.
“Each violation is sufficient for this court to reverse the judgment below,” the state Democratic Party wrote in its appeal.
Steve Vladeck, a Georgetown University law professor who writes about the court for Substack, predicted Monday that such an appeal would be unlikely to persuade the Supreme Court to intervene.
The court gave Republicans, who objected to Virginia’s new map, to respond to Democrats’ appeal by May 14.
What Wolves and Spurs must change to turn the series around
The Minnesota Timberwolves and San Antonio Spurs are looking for answers. Here are the adjustments that could swing the momentum back in their favor.
The San Antonio Spurs missed a chance to take a commanding lead in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals, largely due to Victor Wembaneyama’s second-quarter ejection.
Now they can breathe a sigh of relief.
Wenbanyama avoided suspension and will not face further disciplinary action for the right elbow he threw at Minnesota Timberwolves forward Naz Reid in Game 4, which Minnesota ultimately won 114-109 on Sunday, May 10, the NBA announced on Monday, May 11.
This is a big relief for San Antonio, which is currently tied 2-2 in the series. Wenbanyama is the team’s best player and perhaps the most impactful player on both ends of the floor in the entire NBA.
ESPN first reported the news that Wenbanyama had avoided suspension.
Once he left the game, the Timberwolves were more free to attack in the paint, taking advantage of the empty space left by Wembaneyama down low.
Wenbanyama committed a foul 8 minutes and 39 seconds into the second quarter.
During the play, Wembaneyama was scuffling with Reed and Jayden McDaniels after Wembaneyama grabbed a rebound. Reed and McDaniels both tried to grab the ball, trying to pry it from Wenbanyama’s hands. Wenbanyama then propped up his right elbow and threw towards Reed, hitting him in the neck area.
Reed immediately fell to the court as McDaniels continued to try to wrap the ball. Officials blew the whistle to separate the two sides. Ultimately, they reviewed the play and determined the contact was “unnecessary and excessive” and raised the red-handed foul penalty to two, with an automatic ejection.
Wembaneyama looked surprised on the bench and didn’t seem to know the rules regarding flagrant fouls. This was Wenbanyama’s first ejection in his career, and as he exited the court, he excited his teammates, clapping and gesturing to the crowd.
Wenbanyama played just 12 minutes and 29 seconds and left the game with 4 points on 2-of-5 shooting, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist.
Game 5 is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12th at 8pm ET.
Tired of going to the same place? Create a list in the Maps app using Guides.
problem solved
Diners looking to save some dough this summer can enjoy the return of a popular sale at Applebee’s.
The restaurant chain announced on Monday, May 11, that it would be reintroducing its all-you-can-eat plan for customers. This offer is available for a limited time and includes your choice of 3 proteins with unlimited fries for $15.99.
“Fan-favorite all-you-can-eat boneless wings, riblets and double crunch shrimp are back, making Applebee’s saucy and delicious American summer all-you-can-eat,” Michelle Chin, Applebee’s chief marketing officer, said in a news release.
Here’s everything you need to know about the all-you-can-eat plan.
What is Applebee’s All-You-Can-Eat?
With this deal, diners can choose between the following (all with unlimited fries):
Boneless wings: Tender, crispy breaded, boneless chicken tossed with the guest’s choice of sauce. Choose from six wing sauce flavors, including Classic Buffalo and Hot Honey Glaze.
Libretto: Tender, slow-cooked pork is drizzled with either Honey BBQ, Hot Honey Glaze, or Sweet Asian Chili Sauce. Served with coleslaw and fries.
Double crunch shrimp: Served with crispy battered double crunch shrimp, cocktail sauce, coleslaw and fries.
When can I get the all-you-can-eat benefit?
Applebee’s All You Can Eat deal begins Monday, May 11 and will be available for a limited time, the restaurant said.
Applebee’s launches new cocktails to celebrate the arrival of summer
Applebee’s also introduced a new margarita line featuring Don Julio Tequila to celebrate the arrival of summer.
Margaritas are served in collectible cups and include:
Sunny Sipper Margarita: Don Julio Reposado Tequila, Malibu Coconut Rum, Blue Curacao, Pineapple Juice, Lime.
Berry Flappin’ Melon Margarita: Don Julio Reposado Tequila, Smirnoff Vodka, Triple Sec, Lime.
The chain is also introducing a new $6 Long Beach Tea. The brand says it’s a West Coast twist on the classic Long Island Iced Tea made with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s still gin, Smirnoff vodka, Bacardi rum, triple sec, lemon sour, and cranberry juice.
Gabe Hauari is USA TODAY’s national trends news reporter. You can follow him at X @gabehauari Or email Gdhauari@gannett.com.
Energy Secretary says government is ready to suspend petrol tax
Energy Secretary Chris Wright said in an interview with Meet the Press that the Trump administration is open to suspending the federal gas tax.
As U.S. gas prices continue to hurt consumers’ pockets, President Donald Trump may be considering eliminating the country’s federal gasoline tax.
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright appeared on NBC’s “Meet the Press” on May 10 and said he and his administration are open to suspending federal taxes.
“This administration supports any steps that are taken to lower prices at the pump and lower prices for Americans,” he said.
On Monday, President Trump told CBS News that eliminating the federal gas tax is a “great idea.”
“Yes, we are going to abolish the gas tax for a certain period of time, but we are going to reinstate it in stages when the gas supply runs out,” he told the outlet.
But this isn’t the first time this spring that the idea of suspending gas taxes amid soaring prices has been floated.
Philadelphia lawmaker proposes gas price relief bill. Brendan Boyle, Philadelphia Gas Price Relief Act
In April, Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-Pennsylvania) announced the Gas Price Relief Act in Philadelphia, aimed at lowering soaring gas prices.
Boyle criticized President Trump and the Iran war, blaming them for national gas price increases not seen since 2022.
His bill would suspend the 18.4 cent federal gas tax for any period when the national average is above $4, and reduce or eliminate the tax based on price.
Oil company executives should not be profiting from President Trump’s Iran war while Americans are struggling to make ends meet.
That’s why my bill would pay for it by suspending the national gas tax and ending subsidies to oil and gas companies when gas prices rise above $4 a gallon. pic.twitter.com/LkAKzuTzI7
The bill would also reallocate $30 billion in federal aid paid to oil and gas companies to address potential funding shortfalls in the Highway Trust Fund.
Boyle’s bill was introduced on April 30 and referred to the House Ways and Means Committee.
Kaitlyn McCormick is a Philadelphia-based reporter who writes about trends, news and all things city-related for USA TODAY’s Philadelphia Metro Connect team.
Understanding gas price disparities between stations
Fluctuations in gas prices are not random. Understand how taxes, blends, margins, and brands lead to different pump costs.
Brad Myers, Ben Mace
President Donald Trump and some lawmakers are considering suspending the federal gas tax in response to soaring prices.
The federal government has collected a gasoline tax since 1932, and it currently stands at 18.4 cents per gallon.
Georgia has already suspended its state gasoline tax, and several other states are considering similar measures.
President Donald Trump has said he wants to temporarily suspend the 18 cents per gallon federal gas tax to help drivers struggling with high gas prices, and Republicans in Congress have introduced a bill that would do just that.
“I think it’s a great idea,” President Trump said in a phone interview with a CBS News reporter about his plan to temporarily raise the gas tax. “Well, we’re going to eliminate the gas tax for a certain period of time and then phase it back in as gas prices go down.”
The comments come after Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri said he would introduce a bill on May 11 to suspend the federal gas tax. Furthermore, on March 13, two Democratic senators in the Senate introduced a bill calling for the suspension of the federal gasoline tax until October 1, in light of soaring domestic gasoline prices.
“This bill temporarily suspends the federal gasoline tax, lowers high gasoline prices and squeezes consumers, and provides much-needed economic relief to American families,” said Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, a co-author of the bill.
The Automotive Innovation Alliance, the largest lobbying group for automakers in Washington, also recently spoke in favor of a plan to eliminate the federal gas tax and introduce a new vehicle fee based on a car’s weight.
The president and lawmakers’ comments came as the average price of gasoline reached $4.52 on May 11, according to the AAA Auto Club. This is an increase from the national average gasoline price of $2.98 on February 28, when the United States launched its first military strike against Iran at the direction of President Trump.
How much is the federal gas tax?
The federal government has collected taxes on all gasoline purchases made at U.S. gas stations since the 1930s. The current tax rate of 18.4 cents per gallon was established by a law passed by Congress in 1993. Transportation funding advocates lament the fact that Congress has not acted to raise gas taxes in more than 30 years.
Gasoline taxes are typically authorized by Congress each time it adopts a federal highway funding bill, because revenue from the gas tax is used to fund the Department of Transportation’s Highway Trust Fund. The Highway Trust Fund is distributed to states to help pay for road and transportation construction projects.
The federal gasoline tax was first enacted in 1932 at a rate of 1 cent per gallon. Congress has approved multiple tax increases since then, and some lawmakers have called for tying the increases to inflation, making it politically difficult for lawmakers to vote in favor of tax increases before elections.
Suspending the federal gasoline tax would require an act of Congress, since the collection of the federal gasoline tax was authorized by lawmakers in a previous highway funding bill.
What is the gasoline tax used for?
The DOT’s Highway Trust Fund, which is distributed to states to help pay for road and transportation construction projects, is primarily funded by the federal gasoline tax of 18.4 cents per gallon on every U.S. gasoline purchase.
As cars become more fuel efficient, more drivers are choosing EVs and hybrids., Even though road use is increasing, the government is collecting less money. Lawmakers have been looking for ways to close the growing gap in federal gas tax revenue.
The federal gasoline tax hasn’t been raised since 1993, and at current levels it brings in about $40 billion a year, according to the Tax Policy Center. The federal government typically spends about $60 billion on transportation projects, but infrastructure advocates say that’s barely enough to maintain the nation’s roads and transit systems. Most states also impose their own gas taxes to fund local road projects.
Can President Trump unilaterally suspend the gas tax?
The federal gas tax is authorized by Congress, so President Trump cannot unilaterally suspend it. Suspending or eliminating the federal gasoline tax would require separate legislation from Congress.
Mr. Trump and others recently floated the idea because of voter dissatisfaction with rising gas prices and because current federal highway funding was part of former President Joe Biden’s bipartisan infrastructure bill, which expires on September 30.
The last time Congress voted on anything other than reauthorizing the gasoline tax at its current level of 18.4 cents per gallon was in 1993.
Since the fuel tax was first introduced in 1932 at a rate of 1 cent per gallon, Congress has voted to raise the fuel tax nine times, including in 1993, according to the Congressional Research Service.
During the same period, lawmakers voted to lower the federal gasoline tax only twice: once in 1934, when it was lowered from 1.5 cents per gallon to 1 cent, and once in 1987, when it was raised from 9.1 cents per gallon to 9 cents per gallon.
Congress has been debating the idea of temporarily suspending the gas tax when fuel prices rise, or eliminating it entirely in favor of a plan to tax drivers based on the number of miles they drive or the weight of their vehicles. But lawmakers have never voted to cancel the tax since they first authorized it in 1932.
Texas Roadhouse super fan is living out his retirement dreams
Mike and Judy McNamara are trying to visit every Texas roadhouse in America.
Despite increased sales, Texas Roadhouse is raising menu prices due to inflation.
The steak restaurant announced a 1.9% increase in menu prices in its 2026 first quarter financial results released on May 7th. Comparable restaurant sales increased 7.1% year over year, with average weekly sales of $174,151 (compared to $163,071 in the same period last year).
The chain’s restaurant profit margins declined due to product and labor inflation, but some of the decline was offset by higher sales, the earnings report said.
Still, Texas Roadhouse said it increased menu prices in early April.
“Thanks to the hard work and discipline of all of our operators, we started 2026 with great momentum,” Texas Roadhouse CEO Jerry Morgan said in a statement. “Our strong traffic trends continue to drive revenue growth, and it’s clear that our customers value our commitment to delivering legendary experiences.”
Morgan also revealed that the chain is building 22 stores.
“Our disciplined approach to capital allocation, along with our focus on new store development and strategic franchise acquisitions, will ensure that we continue to drive sustainable growth and create long-term value for our shareholders,” Morgan added.
Texas Roadhouse opened in 1993. Since then, the company has grown to more than 700 locations in 49 states and about 40 locations in 10 international countries, according to its website.
Texas Roadhouse Family Meal Plan
The steak chain offers grab-and-go family meals, but deals vary by store and may be seasonal.
Texas Roadhouse Table Service Technology
Morgan reportedly said Texas Roadhouse may start using handheld tablets at tables to help customers order faster, according to multiple news outlets, including Newsweek.
The potential expansion comes as the chain increases its use of technology to streamline operations while maintaining strong customer demand, Newsweek reports.
texas roadhouse location
Use our restaurant locator to find a Texas Roadhouse location near you.
Contact Natassia Paloma at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on x, natassia_paloma on Instagram and Natassia Paloma Thompson on Facebook.
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Energy Secretary says government is ready to suspend petrol tax
Energy Secretary Chris Wright said in an interview with Meet the Press that the Trump administration is open to suspending the federal gas tax.
With gas prices hovering above $4, the White House is considering suspending the federal gas tax. But analysts say such measures would provide little relief to consumers and erode key revenue sources for transportation infrastructure and the federal budget.
The federal gasoline tax is 18.4 cents per gallon for gasoline and gasohol (fuels made from unleaded gasoline and ethanol) and 24.3 cents per gallon for diesel. The tax funds federal transportation spending through the Highway Trust Fund. These are separate from taxes levied at the state level, some of which have already been suspended.
The White House has floated the idea of using an executive order to suspend federal taxes, but only Congress can change how the Highway Trust Fund raises revenue. As prices soared this spring, lawmakers are introducing bills such as the Gas Price Relief Act of 2026.
more: President Trump calls for suspension of federal gas tax during Iran war
But a mid-April analysis by the Bipartisan Policy Center found that suspending the federal gas tax for five months, as the bill suggests, would result in $17 billion in lost revenue.
To close this hole, the proposed bill would transfer funding from the federal General Fund to the Highway Trust Fund. BPC estimated that the five-month suspension would add $12 billion to the federal deficit because consumers could spend a little more on their paychecks.
“This is a major source of funding to build new roads, maintain existing roads and support our nation’s transportation infrastructure,” said Adam Hoffer, director of excise policy at the nonprofit Tax Foundation.
Meanwhile, Hoffer added, “Americans are driving more than ever before. We want our roads to be pothole-free and safe to drive on. And we need money to build these roads and build more roads in the future.”
“The traditional justification for a gas tax is that when you fill up your tank of gas, you’re paying for it to be on the road,” said Kyle Pomerleau, a senior fellow at the right-wing American Enterprise Institute.
Pomerleau told USA TODAY that tying consumer road use to use taxes is “fair and efficient.” He and many other analysts point out that current taxes haven’t been raised in decades, so stopping them now would only exacerbate the continuing deficit problem.
Will a gas tax exemption help consumers?
On the other hand, any tax holiday measures likely to have little effect on consumers. The price of 18.4 cents per gallon is lower than the current national average cost of $4.52 per gallon.
“It’s another negative for consumers in terms of cumulative inflation that they’ve had to deal with before,” said Kenneth Kim., Senior Economist at KPMG LLP.
“Last year there were tariffs, and this year energy costs have increased,” Kim added. “Consumers are under pressure, and low-income consumers are hurting in this environment.”
And some analysts think there will be new pain in pumps going forward.
“If oil prices continue to rise, price volatility could return in the coming days in many states, pushing the national average toward the $4.65 per gallon level,” Patrick de Haan, GasBuddy’s head of petroleum analysis, said in a May 11 note.
“Furthermore, diesel prices are nearing record highs in many parts of the Great Lakes region as ongoing refinery issues continue to have a disproportionate impact on diesel production. If geopolitical tensions escalate further, fuel prices could rise even more sharply in the coming weeks.”
Rob Summell, senior portfolio manager at $9 billion Tortoise Capital, said in an email statement that there may be a more common-sense approach to making pumping less painful.
“A more effective way to improve affordability would be a diplomatic solution to the Iran war that includes reopening and stabilizing access through the Strait of Hormuz,” Tummel wrote. “If global oil markets regain confidence in the free movement of oil and refined products, oil prices could fall and U.S. gasoline and diesel prices could significantly exceed the federal gasoline tax of 18.4 cents.”
