Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch apologized for a controversial statement about Suella Braverman’s mental health following Braverman’s defection to Reform UK. Badenoch retracted the comment and emphasized it was not reflective of party culture. Braverman and two other Conservative MPs recently joined Reform UK, criticizing the Conservative Party.
Key Facts
Kemi Badenoch is the Conservative leader.
Badenoch apologized for a statement related to Suella Braverman’s mental health.
The statement was issued after Braverman defected to Reform UK.
Braverman is a former Conservative home secretary.
Braverman accused the Conservatives of "betrayal" and "a witch hunt."
Robert Jenrick and Andrew Rosindell also joined Reform UK recently.
Reform UK now has eight MPs.
A new political movement, Prosper UK, seeks to engage centrist voters.
Customs and Border Protection agents have been put on administrative leave after a shooting incident involving Alex Pretti, a Minneapolis resident. The Department of Homeland Security is reviewing the shooting, which happened during an immigration enforcement operation.
Key Facts
Customs and Border Protection agents were involved in a shooting in Minneapolis.
The person shot was Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen.
The agents are now on administrative leave.
This action is part of the standard procedure after such incidents.
The shooting took place during an immigration enforcement operation.
The event has led to strong reactions and protests.
The Department of Homeland Security is conducting a review of the incident.
The article discusses how health and wellness brands are gaining trust by being transparent and delivering on their promises. Newsweek released a ranking of the most trusted brands in the U.S. for 2026, highlighting the importance of trust and transparency. Health and wellness brands are focusing on clear communication about their products to maintain consumer confidence.
Key Facts
Newsweek and BrandSpark published a list of the 2026 Most Trusted Brands in the U.S.
The health and wellness industry is worth $2 trillion globally.
U.S. consumers spend over $500 billion each year on health and wellness.
Gen Z and Millennials account for over a third of U.S. adults but spend more than 40% of the annual wellness budget.
The rankings were based on a survey of more than 35,000 consumers.
Brands are focusing on clear communication about ingredients and product efficacy.
Hydroxycut and SlimFast were named top weight loss supplement brands in a new ranking category.
A retired senior official from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) expressed concerns that recent events in Minneapolis could lead to serious problems for the agency. Two fatal incidents involving immigration enforcement have led to protests and criticism of President Trump's immigration policies. The official criticized the use of Border Patrol agents in city areas, suggesting it led to planning mistakes and decreased public trust.
Key Facts
Two people were killed in immigration enforcement actions in Minneapolis this month.
The involved deceased were Alex Pretti, a U.S. citizen, and Renée Good.
Protests and political backlash have followed these incidents.
The use of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents away from border areas has been criticized.
ICE enforcements in cities face different legal guidelines compared to border areas.
The retired ICE official highlighted issues with agent identification and public trust.
ICE's current operational goals are criticized for being unrealistic, such as deporting up to one million people a year.
There is a concern about the agency's standards being affected by rapid workforce expansion.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are focusing on pitcher Roki Sasaki for the 2026 season. Despite a challenging rookie season, Sasaki showed strong performance in the postseason and is expected to play a key role as the Dodgers aim for another championship.
Key Facts
Roki Sasaki is a right-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The Dodgers start spring training in Arizona on February 13, 2026.
Sasaki struggled with control and speed due to a shoulder injury in 2025.
His role for the 2026 season might be as a fifth or sixth starting pitcher.
Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts suggests Sasaki should develop a third pitch type.
Sasaki performed well in the postseason with a 0.84 ERA in 10.2 innings.
The Dodgers are aiming for a third consecutive championship in 2026.
Northern Florida is expected to experience unusually cold temperatures, with wind chills making it feel like single digits. This cold weather is part of a larger pattern, including a new winter storm likely to bring heavy snow to other parts of the southern United States.
Key Facts
Temperatures in Northern Florida could feel like single digits due to wind chill.
Actual temperatures might drop to the low 20s in Northern Florida.
Miami is expecting morning lows of around 36 degrees Fahrenheit.
The average low temperature for Miami around this time is usually 62 degrees.
The cold weather could break weather records in Florida.
A map showed wind chill values in Tallahassee and Jacksonville could be as low as 9 and 8 degrees, respectively.
The incoming weather is considered a "generational cold" event.
Cold weather advisories and freeze warnings are already in place across Florida.
Dame Sarah Mullally has been confirmed as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury. She plans to address issues like misogyny and improve safeguarding in the Church. Her appointment comes after the resignation of her predecessor, Justin Welby, amid criticism over handling abuse cases.
Key Facts
Dame Sarah Mullally became the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury.
She is the first woman to lead the Church of England.
Justin Welby, her predecessor, resigned over abuse case criticism.
Dame Sarah plans to address misogyny and improve church safeguarding.
The confirmation ceremony was held at St Paul's Cathedral.
Her past roles include Bishop of London and England's chief nursing officer.
She acknowledges experiencing misogyny in both secular and church roles.
Some traditionalist churches have concerns over her appointment because she is a woman.
An investigation found that Fettes College, a well-known private school in Scotland, failed to stop sexual and physical abuse of students from the 1950s to the 1980s. The school has apologized for its past failings, and some former staff members were identified as being involved in the abuse.
Key Facts
A Scottish inquiry discovered abuse at Fettes College from the 1950s to the 1980s.
Both teachers and students at the school were involved in the abuse.
Former headmaster Anthony Chenevix-Trench was named as someone who abused students.
The school has apologized for not protecting the children.
Lady Smith, chair of the inquiry, stated that the school could have protected the students better.
Some victims are still dealing with the effects of the abuse.
A former teacher named Iain Wares, linked to the abuse, is facing extradition from South Africa.
The U.S. unemployment rates varied across states in December, with some states seeing decreases and others increases. The national unemployment rate dropped slightly to 4.4% in December, but overall job growth in 2025 was the weakest since 2020. Government job layoffs were particularly high due to the dissolution of a federal department.
Key Facts
In December, unemployment decreased in 8 states, increased in 21, and stayed the same in 22.
The nationwide unemployment rate dipped to 4.4% in December.
The economy added 50,000 jobs in December, below expectations of 60,000.
Hawaii and South Dakota had the lowest unemployment rates at 2.2%.
Washington, D.C. had the highest unemployment rate at 6.7%.
Government job layoffs in 2025 were significant, with 308,167 job cuts.
The dissolution of the Department of Government Efficiency largely caused the increase in government job layoffs.
Israeli actions in Gaza have led to the destruction of fertility clinics. This has impacted many Palestinians who hoped to become parents through these clinics.
Key Facts
Fertility clinics in Gaza have been destroyed.
These clinics were important for many Palestinians wanting to have children.
The damage has affected the dreams of parenthood for thousands in Gaza.
Al Jazeera reported on a couple from Gaza City who lost their opportunity to become parents.
The conflict in Gaza has broader implications beyond immediate physical damage.
The value of Iran's currency, the rial, has reached a record low amid protests and the threat of a possible U.S. military strike. The situation has led to regional diplomatic discussions to prevent further instability. President Donald Trump has warned against violent crackdowns on protesters and urged negotiations.
Key Facts
Iran's currency, the rial, fell to a record low of 1.6 million to $1.
Protests in Iran began due to economic issues and have widened to challenge the government, causing over 6,000 deaths, according to activists.
The U.S. has moved military assets, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, to the region.
President Trump has set red lines against the killing of peaceful demonstrators and mass executions.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE have pledged not to allow their airspace for military attacks on Iran.
Diplomatic talks are ongoing between Iran, the U.S., and various Middle Eastern nations to reduce tensions.
Iran's mission to the UN stated they are open for dialogue but ready to defend if necessary.
Iran has restricted access to global internet amid the protests, relying on state media.
Budapest Mayor Gergely Karacsony faces charges for organizing a pride march despite a ban in Hungary. Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government has banned the annual event, but the mayor attempted to hold it, attracting large numbers. The prosecutors seek a fine for his actions, and Karacsony might face up to a year in prison.
Key Facts
Budapest Mayor Gergely Karacsony is charged for organizing a pride march despite a ban.
The march attracted hundreds of thousands of people.
Prosecutors want to fine Mayor Karacsony without a trial.
Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban has promoted laws against LGBTQ events.
Hungary's government banned the annual pride march in 2025.
Mayor Karacsony could face up to one year in prison.
Participants in the march might be fined up to 500 euros.
Organizers estimated up to 200,000 people participated in the 2025 Budapest Pride event.
California lawmakers have introduced two bills to limit the power of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the state. The bills propose barring recent ICE employees from certain public jobs and imposing a 50% tax on profits from private ICE detention centers.
Key Facts
California introduced two new bills focusing on ICE, a U.S. immigration agency.
One bill bans recent ICE employees from taking specific public jobs, like teaching or police work, in California.
The same bill also affects former employees of Alabama and Georgia corrections departments due to past misconduct.
Another bill introduces a 50% tax on profits from private companies running ICE detention centers in California.
The tax targets hundreds of millions of dollars in profit made by these private detention facilities.
These bills come after public outcry over fatal ICE-involved shootings in Minnesota.
The California Department of Justice has reported poor conditions in some private ICE facilities in the state.
The Cleveland Browns hired Todd Monken as their new head coach to replace Kevin Stefanski. However, the decision has created tension with Jim Schwartz, their current defensive coordinator, who was considered for the head coach role. Schwartz is reportedly upset and considering leaving, with other teams showing interest in him.
Key Facts
Todd Monken was hired as the new head coach of the Cleveland Browns.
Jim Schwartz, the Browns' current defensive coordinator, was also considered for the head coach position.
Schwartz was reportedly very upset about not being chosen as the head coach.
There is tension between Schwartz and the Browns team management.
Other NFL teams, like the San Francisco 49ers, may be interested in hiring Schwartz as a coordinator.
Schwartz has a history of experience, including being a head coach and a Super Bowl-winning defensive coordinator.
He previously coached teams like the Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills, and Philadelphia Eagles.
Jim Schwartz joined the Cleveland Browns again in 2023.
President Donald Trump has warned that the United States might attack Iran if it does not agree to negotiate over its nuclear program. He mentioned that a large U.S. military force is heading to Iran and emphasized the need for a deal to avoid future conflict.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump warned Iran about a potential military attack from the U.S.
He demanded that Iran make a deal regarding its nuclear program.
Trump mentioned a "massive Armada" of U.S. military forces moving towards Iran.
Iran was encouraged to negotiate to prevent further conflict.
Trump said a new attack on Iran could be worse than previous ones.
His comments follow Iran's statement refusing to restart negotiations under threat.
A new documentary called "Finding Harmony: A King's Vision" explores King Charles III's lifelong dedication to environmental issues, including a famous remark from 40 years ago about talking to plants. The documentary, which premieres at Windsor Castle, highlights Charles's efforts to promote sustainable practices and address climate change and biodiversity loss.
Key Facts
King Charles III has been concerned with environmental issues for many years.
He once remarked in an interview in 1986 that he talks to plants, which led to public ridicule.
The documentary "Finding Harmony: A King's Vision" explores his environmental philosophy.
The film discusses his views on the negative impacts of economic growth on nature.
It highlights several of his projects promoting sustainability, like Dumfries House.
Charles is worried about climate change and biodiversity loss.
The documentary is set to release on Amazon Prime Video on February 6.
The film was made in collaboration with The King's Foundation, his charity.
Recent events have changed voter priorities in the U.S., with civil rights and civil liberties now taking precedence over immigration, a key issue for President Donald Trump. This shift follows intense ICE operations and problems in Minneapolis, leading to decreased trust in immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, polls show growing dissatisfaction with the current direction of the country.
Key Facts
Civil rights and civil liberties have become more important to U.S. voters than immigration.
This change follows controversial actions by immigration agents in Minneapolis.
President Trump’s net approval rating has dropped significantly.
Economic concerns like inflation and healthcare remain top voter priorities.
Confidence in ICE has fallen, with many wanting funding for the agency reduced.
Over half of Americans now have little trust in ICE.
This sentiment is especially strong among independents, with 67% expressing low confidence in ICE.
Most Americans prefer cutting ICE funding over reductions in other government spending areas.
A plane crash at Bangor International Airport in Maine resulted in the deaths of all six people on board. Among the deceased was Shawna Collins, an employee of Lakewood Church in Houston. The crash occurred as the plane attempted takeoff during a winter storm.
Key Facts
A plane crashed at Bangor International Airport in Maine, killing all six people on board.
Shawna Collins, an employee of Lakewood Church in Houston, was among those who died.
The incident involved a Bombardier Challenger 600 aircraft.
The crash happened as the plane was trying to take off during a winter storm.
Pilot Jacob Hosmer, age 47, was also killed in the crash.
The plane was traveling from Houston to Paris, stopping in Bangor to refuel.
Jacob Hosmer started working for Arnold and Itkin law firm seven months before the crash.
The aircraft turned over and burned on the tarmac after the crash.
Dunkin' introduced a Valentine's Day-themed menu with new and returning food and drink items, along with special merchandise and rewards for members. The offerings are available from January 28 to February 17, 2026, at participating locations. Dunkin' is also offering limited-edition merchandise with proceeds going to charity.
Key Facts
Dunkin' launched new and returning Valentine's Day-themed menu items, including drinks and donuts.
Seven new seasonal drinks are offered, such as variations of "Strawberry Dragonfruit Refresher" and "Heart Eyes Daydream Refresher."
Two seasonal donuts, Brownie Batter and Cupid’s Choice, are returning and will use special Valentine's Day decorations.
Heart-shaped shells will be used for filled donuts, and special sprinkles are applied for the season.
New Valentine's-themed merchandise includes 25-count Munchkins tins, with proceeds benefiting a charity supporting children.
Dunkin’ Rewards members can earn extra points on select purchases in February.
The menu and merchandise are available at participating locations from January 28 to February 17, while supplies last.
President Donald Trump signed an order to speed up rebuilding homes destroyed by January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles. This order aims to reduce the time it takes to get building permits by bypassing some state and local rules.
Key Facts
President Trump signed an executive order to speed up home rebuilding after the January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles.
The order allows homeowners to avoid some state and local permit requirements.
It lets builders "self-certify" compliance with health, safety, and building standards.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA) are involved in creating new regulations.
California Governor Gavin Newsom opposed the idea, saying federal permits can't replace local permits.
Governor Newsom requested $33.9 billion in disaster aid from the federal government, which has not yet been approved.
