Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, was not allowed to run as a Labour candidate in an upcoming parliamentary by-election. The Labour Party's National Executive Committee (NEC) decided that it would be too costly to replace Burnham as mayor if he became an MP. Despite his disappointment, Burnham accepted the decision and will not run as an independent candidate.
Key Facts
Andy Burnham wanted to run as a Labour candidate in a parliamentary by-election.
The Labour Party's NEC stopped him from standing for election.
The main reason cited was the high cost for the party to elect a new mayor if Burnham left his current role.
Burnham expressed disappointment but accepted the NEC's decision.
He considered himself well-suited to defend the Labour seat against opponents like Reform UK.
Burnham has been seen as a potential alternative leader within the Labour Party.
Despite being blocked, Burnham will still campaign for Labour in the by-election.
The Labour Party previously won the Gorton and Denton seat with a significant majority.
Videos of Alex Pretti's confrontation with federal agents have led to debates about his shooting by Border Patrol. The Trump administration initially described Pretti as a "domestic terrorist," but video evidence challenges claims that he was armed during the fatal encounter. The incident has sparked discussions about the justification of lethal force in such situations.
Key Facts
Alex Pretti, a nurse, had a confrontation with immigration agents on January 13 and was killed by Border Patrol on January 24.
The Trump administration initially claimed Pretti approached agents with a gun, but videos suggest he wasn't armed.
Pretti was described by Homeland Security as a "domestic terrorist."
Critics argue the earlier confrontation doesn't justify the shooting.
The incident has become part of the ongoing national debate over immigration enforcement by federal agents.
Videos of Pretti's encounter were shared widely, leading to various interpretations of his actions.
Pretti was a lawful gun owner, but it's unclear if he had a weapon during the shooting.
The New England Patriots will face the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX on February 8. The Patriots will wear their all-white uniforms, showcasing a design with navy blue numbers and a USA 250 patch. The Seahawks will wear their all-navy uniforms, a combination they wore successfully in the season.
Key Facts
The New England Patriots will play against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX.
The game will take place on Sunday, February 8.
The Patriots won against the Denver Broncos with a 10–7 score in the AFC Championship Game.
The Seahawks defeated the Los Angeles Rams 31–27 in the NFC title game.
The Patriots will wear all-white uniforms featuring navy blue numbers and a USA 250 patch.
The Seahawks will wear their all-navy uniforms, which led to a 6-0 record this season.
The Patriots will be considered the home team for the game.
Both teams will wear uniforms that have been successful for them in the 2025–26 season.
Jake Lang, a man who was pardoned for participating in the January 6 Capitol riot, is asking supporters to gather in Minneapolis to support Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This call comes amid public criticism and protests following recent deadly shootings involving ICE agents in the city. The Trump administration has sent officials to Minneapolis to manage the situation and has made some personnel changes.
Key Facts
Jake Lang, a pardoned participant of the January 6 riot, urges supporters to go to Minneapolis to back ICE.
Minneapolis has seen public protests after ICE-related shootings led to the deaths of two individuals and injured another.
The Trump administration sent Tom Homan, a high-ranking official, to Minneapolis to address the situation.
Jake Lang previously organized a protest against alleged fraud in Minnesota's social services.
Lang claims to have secured a permit for a gathering at the Minnesota State Capitol on February 7.
Federal agents have arrested 16 protesters in Minnesota for allegedly attacking law enforcement.
Jake Lang was jailed for his role in the Capitol riot but was pardoned by President Trump after four years.
The Cleveland Browns hired Todd Monken, a former offensive coordinator, as their new head coach. Former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho criticized the decision, questioning Monken's ability to lead the team and suggesting quarterback Shedeur Sanders should be cautious. Fans on social media reacted to Acho's comments, leading to a debate about Monken's potential as a head coach.
Key Facts
Shedeur Sanders is entering his second season with the Cleveland Browns.
The Browns hired Todd Monken as their new head coach.
Monken previously worked as the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens.
Emmanuel Acho, a former NFL linebacker, criticized Monken's hire.
Acho doubted Monken's leadership ability and suggested Sanders question his head coach.
NFL fans reacted to Acho's comments on social media.
Sanders began his NFL career as a third-string quarterback and has since become a starter.
Crystal Palace has agreed on a potential £50 million deal to sign Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen. This agreement would break Palace's previous transfer record set earlier this month. The move also creates uncertainty around Jean-Philippe Mateta's future at the club.
Key Facts
Crystal Palace plans to pay about £50 million to sign Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves.
Wolves are willing to sell Larsen if the offer is close to £55 million.
Palace recently set a record with a £35 million signing of Brennan Johnson.
Leeds previously made a £40 million bid for Larsen, which was rejected.
Jean-Philippe Mateta may leave Crystal Palace, with clubs like Juventus and AC Milan interested.
Nottingham Forest offered about £35 million for Mateta.
Mateta wants to play in the Champions League but considers Forest's offer attractive financially.
A woman adopted a husky mix that had been in a shelter for more than nine months despite being advised against it. The dog, initially scared and withdrawn, became confident after the adoption, gaining attention on TikTok. Long stays in shelters can affect dogs emotionally, often due to stressful environments.
Key Facts
A husky mix spent over nine months in a shelter.
The woman adopted the dog despite being advised not to because of the dog's long stay.
She shared the dog's progress on TikTok, receiving more than 300,000 views and 34,800 likes.
The dog transformed from scared to confident in his new home.
Long-term shelter dogs often struggle due to stress from shelter conditions.
Dogs in shelters for extended periods are usually older, larger, and may have behavioral challenges.
A study found dogs labeled as "dangerous breeds" often stay longer in shelters.
People are boycotting Huda Beauty after the founder, Huda Kattan, shared a video on Instagram that many believe supports the Iranian government's views. The reaction has been strong, especially among Iranian women and diaspora influencers who oppose the regime. This has led to calls for retailers to stop selling Huda Beauty products.
Key Facts
Huda Kattan shared a video on Instagram that sparked controversy.
Many Iranians believe the video supports Islamic Regime propaganda.
Social media users are filming themselves throwing away Huda Beauty products.
The boycott is gaining traction on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Huda Kattan, originally from the U.S. with Iraqi heritage, co-founded Huda Beauty with her sister.
The brand is valued at over $500 million and is popular in the Middle East.
Kattan addressed the backlash, saying she did not intend to promote any regime and lacks detailed knowledge on the topic.
Critics are not satisfied with her response and question her understanding of the situation.
The number of fines issued to parents in England for taking children on holiday during school terms has reached a record high. In 2024-25, fines increased by 4% from the previous year, following a change that raised the fine amount to £80 per parent, per child. Local authorities handle the issuance of fines, aiming for consistency in approach, while still considering exceptional circumstances.
Key Facts
In 2024-25, England issued 459,288 fines for term-time school holidays, a 4% increase from the previous year.
The fines now cost £80 per parent, per child, up from £60, due to a rule change in 2024.
Yorkshire and the Humber had the highest rate of fines, while London had the lowest.
Fines account for 93% of all penalties for unauthorized school absences in England.
Fines can rise to £160 if not paid within 21 days, with further penalties for repeated offenses.
Local councils issue fines, which causes variability in different areas.
The fines aim to improve school attendance and reduce disruptions in classes.
Some families face fines for taking affordable holidays during term time but can appeal under exceptional circumstances, such as military service.
Saudi and Israeli officials are visiting Washington, D.C., for discussions with the Trump administration about Iran. President Trump is considering military action against Iran, although no final decision has been made. Israel and Saudi Arabia are participating in talks to share intelligence and explore diplomatic options to avoid conflict.
Key Facts
Saudi and Israeli officials are in Washington, D.C., to discuss Iran with U.S. leaders.
President Trump is thinking about military strikes on Iran but hasn't decided yet.
The U.S. has increased its military presence in the Gulf region in preparation.
Israel is sharing intelligence about possible targets in Iran with the U.S.
Saudi Arabia is trying to find a diplomatic way to avoid a regional conflict.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has communicated with Iran about not allowing U.S. attacks from Saudi airspace.
Iran has threatened significant retaliation if attacked by the U.S.
The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier is now in the Gulf region as part of the U.S. military buildup.
A popular Instagram video shows a cat having trouble using a new litter box. The cat gets stuck when the box's cover slides up unexpectedly. Many cats use litter boxes by instinct because their wild ancestors buried their waste.
Key Facts
A video shows a cat getting stuck while trying to use a new litter box.
The litter box cover moved, leaving the cat in a funny position.
The video was shared on Instagram and went viral, gaining over 12,100 likes.
Cats naturally know how to use litter boxes due to instincts from their wild ancestors.
Wild cats buried their waste to hide their scent from predators.
Kittens learn to use litter boxes by 4 weeks old, often by watching their mothers.
Changes in a cat's litter box use might indicate stress, cleanliness issues, or health problems.
Lucas Giolito, a pitcher who recently played for the Boston Red Sox, declined a $19 million contract option for 2026 hoping for a better offer. The Atlanta Braves, along with the Detroit Tigers and Baltimore Orioles, have shown interest in signing him. The Braves are particularly focused on improving their pitching staff.
Key Facts
Lucas Giolito pitched for the Boston Red Sox but had limited playtime due to injuries.
He declined a mutual option contract with the Red Sox worth $19 million for 2026.
Giolito's estimated market value is $61.3 million over three years.
The Atlanta Braves are reportedly interested in signing Giolito.
Other teams interested in Giolito include the Detroit Tigers and Baltimore Orioles.
The Braves are looking to strengthen their starting rotation after a weak performance last season.
Giolito was initially drafted by the Washington Nationals and attended high school in Los Angeles.
The Braves have been active during the offseason but still need to improve their starting rotation.
New York Yankees player Aaron Judge is recovering well from an elbow injury that affected his throwing arm. He is preparing for the World Baseball Classic and is ahead in his recovery efforts, according to Yankees manager Aaron Boone.
Key Facts
Aaron Judge injured his elbow in late July and was a designated hitter until September.
He suffered from a right flexor strain but returned before the playoffs.
Surgery was not required for Judge's injury.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone reported that Judge is progressing well with his throwing.
Judge will play as the captain for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.
Boone mentioned that Judge's throwing is going better than usual as he prepares.
Judge led the league in batting averages and home runs this season.
The Yankees lost to the Toronto Blue Jays in the playoffs.
The Arizona Diamondbacks might reunite with Paul Goldschmidt, a first baseman. Goldschmidt, currently with the New York Yankees, may not return to them, and experts think he could fit well again with the Diamondbacks. Despite his age, Goldschmidt still performs well, especially against left-handed pitchers.
Key Facts
Paul Goldschmidt is currently with the New York Yankees but may not stay.
He is 38 years old and played only one season with the Yankees.
Last season, he hit .274 with 10 home runs and 45 RBIs for the Yankees.
He is a seven-time All-Star and performed well against left-handed pitchers with a high batting average.
Experts suggest that returning to the Arizona Diamondbacks would be a good move for him.
The Diamondbacks are looking for a strong right-handed first baseman.
Goldschmidt began his career with the Diamondbacks and was an All-Star for six straight seasons there.
A mayor in the Philippines named Akmad Mitra Ampatuan survived a rocket launcher attack on his vehicle. Two of his security guards were injured in the incident, and police killed at least three attackers. This was the fourth ambush attempt on Ampatuan in recent years.
Key Facts
Mayor Akmad Mitra Ampatuan's vehicle was attacked with a rocket launcher.
The attack happened in broad daylight and was caught on CCTV.
Ampatuan survived the attack, but two of his security guards were injured.
Police killed at least three of the attackers during the incident.
This marks the fourth ambush attempt against Ampatuan in recent years.
The attack occurred on a Sunday.
The Municipality of Shariff Aguak shared the news through Facebook.
Cody Bellinger, a player recently signed by the New York Yankees, chose not to join Team USA for the upcoming World Baseball Classic. Team USA manager, Mark DeRosa, wanted Bellinger for his versatility but understood his decision to focus on the Yankees and a regular spring training.
Key Facts
Cody Bellinger was offered a spot on Team USA for the World Baseball Classic.
Mark DeRosa, Team USA's manager, wanted Bellinger to complete the roster.
Bellinger is a new outfielder for the New York Yankees.
He chose not to join Team USA to focus on a regular spring training with the Yankees.
Bellinger recently signed a five-year, $162.5 million contract with the Yankees.
His versatility allows him to play any outfield position or first base.
Aaron Judge, a Yankee teammate and three-time MVP, is the captain of Team USA.
The New York Yankees traded for a pitcher named Angel Chivilli to strengthen their bullpen. Yankees' General Manager Brian Cashman mentioned they might still add more pitchers. The team's bullpen has been a major issue, with key players leaving and new ones coming in.
Key Facts
The Yankees traded for Angel Chivilli to improve their bullpen.
Brian Cashman, the Yankees' GM, suggests more bullpen additions may come.
The Yankees lost pitchers Luke Weaver and Devin Williams this offseason.
Camilo Doval and David Bednar, acquired last summer, are seen as key players.
Angel Chivilli had a 7.06 ERA last season, which is not strong.
Chivilli throws a fastball averaging 97.1 mph.
He has a 29.7% whiff rate, meaning batters miss his pitches often.
Chivilli has given up 20 home runs in the last two seasons, with a 6.18 ERA.
Senate Democrats are threatening to block a bill that would fund several government agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, unless certain immigration enforcement restrictions are agreed upon. Talks are ongoing between Democrats, Republicans, and the White House to prevent a government shutdown. The main issue is whether to fund Homeland Security separately and impose new restrictions on immigration enforcement.
Key Facts
Senate Democrats may block a funding bill affecting the Department of Homeland Security and other agencies.
They want new restrictions on immigration enforcement before agreeing to the bill.
The Senate was set to meet to discuss this matter at 10:30 a.m. EST.
Talks have been ongoing to find a way to prevent a government shutdown.
A possible solution may involve separating Homeland Security funding from other parts of the bill.
Senate Democrats have specific demands, such as requiring officers to identify themselves and have warrants for arrests.
If no agreement is reached, a government shutdown could start at midnight on Friday.
The Boston Red Sox may trade outfielder Masataka Yoshida due to an excess of skilled outfield players on their roster. Yoshida has not shown the power expected from his previous performance in Japan and has been primarily serving as a designated hitter. With younger players ready to step in, it may make sense for the team to trade Yoshida to alleviate the crowded roster and save money.
Key Facts
The Red Sox have many quality outfielders, making Yoshida less needed.
Yoshida signed a five-year, $90 million contract before the 2023 MLB season.
In Japan, Yoshida had several high home run seasons, but he's only hit 29 home runs in 303 MLB games.
Yoshida missed much of the previous season due to an injury.
The team has four other players better suited for outfield positions: Jarren Duran, Roman Anthony, Wilyer Abreu, and Ceddanne Rafaela.
Yoshida's current role is primarily as a designated hitter, but the team needs that spot for younger players.
Red Sox insider Chris Cotillo predicts a trade involving Yoshida to clear the outfield logjam.
Yoshida is expected to earn over $18 million next season, which could make trading him challenging.
Civil servants in the UK experiencing delays with their pension payments are being offered interest-free loans. Around 8,500 people have faced payment issues since the company Capita began managing the Civil Service Pension Scheme. The government and Capita are working to address the backlog and prioritize urgent cases.
Key Facts
Civil servants in financial hardship due to pension payment delays can get interest-free loans up to £10,000.
The government attributed the delays to Capita, which started managing the pensions in December and inherited a backlog of 86,000 cases.
There are 8,500 people with issues related to pension payments.
Capita apologized for the delays and is working to clear the backlog by hiring more staff.
The loans are typically £5,000, but in exceptional cases, they could reach £10,000.
Urgent cases, such as those involving bereavement or health issues, will be prioritized.
The PCS union is calling for a compensation scheme for additional costs and stress caused by the delays.
Capita took over the administration of the pension scheme from MyCSP in a contract worth £239 million.
