Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar was sprayed with a foul-smelling liquid during a town hall event in Minneapolis. The incident occurred as she was criticizing federal immigration authorities, including ICE. The man responsible was quickly restrained and arrested.
Key Facts
Congresswoman Ilhan Omar was attacked during a town hall in Minneapolis.
A man rushed the stage and sprayed Omar with an unknown, foul-smelling liquid using a syringe.
Omar was not harmed and continued her event after the attack.
The attacker has been identified as 55-year-old Anthony Kazmierczak.
Omar had been criticizing immigration authorities when the incident happened.
President Donald Trump has frequently criticized Omar and Somali Americans.
Two US citizens protesting against immigration crackdowns in Minnesota were recently shot by federal officers, raising tensions.
Minnesota hosts one of the largest Somali communities in the United States.
Three young brothers died after falling into an icy pond near their home in Bonham, Texas. Their mother tried to save them but was unable to due to the breaking ice. Emergency workers and a neighbor eventually retrieved the boys, but they did not survive.
Key Facts
Three brothers, aged six, eight, and nine, died after falling through ice in a pond in Bonham, Texas.
The boys' mother attempted to rescue them, but the ice kept breaking.
A neighbor and emergency workers helped retrieve the children from the water.
The youngest boy fell in first, and his brothers followed trying to save him.
Local authorities identified the boys as Howard Doss, Kaleb Doss, and EJ Doss.
The incident occurred during a severe winter storm impacting Texas and other parts of the U.S.
The boys attended a local school, which offered counseling to grieving students and staff.
The storm has caused widespread issues, including disrupting flights and power outages.
Congressman Ilhan Omar was attacked with an "unknown liquid" during a town hall in Minneapolis. The attacker was quickly arrested, and no serious harm was reported. This incident is part of a growing number of threats against U.S. lawmakers.
Key Facts
Ilhan Omar, a U.S. Congresswoman, was targeted at a town hall meeting.
A man sprayed her with an unknown liquid using a syringe.
The attacker was identified as Anthony Kazmierczak, aged 55.
Minneapolis police arrested and charged him with third-degree assault.
Omar continued the town hall after the incident without injury.
The Capitol Police reported a rise in threats against Congress members, nearly 15,000 last year.
A recent shooting in Minneapolis has reignited national discussion and criticism over immigration policies under President Trump. Public reactions include condemnations from major corporations and widespread online criticism of immigration enforcement. President Trump has called for an investigation and is engaging with local leaders to address the situation.
Key Facts
Alex Pretti was killed in Minneapolis, causing public outcry.
This incident disrupted post-2024 election calm and increased corporate involvement in social issues.
Over 60 business leaders and sports teams have condemned the shooting.
Public confidence in ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is low.
Anti-ICE sentiments are increasingly visible on social media.
President Trump requested an investigation into the shooting.
Trump is distancing himself from those who labeled Pretti negatively.
President Donald Trump said Alex Pretti shouldn't have had a gun, though Pretti was legally allowed to carry one. Pretti was shot by a federal agent during an immigration raid in Minneapolis, and President Trump promised a fair investigation.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump commented on the shooting of Alex Pretti.
Alex Pretti was shot by a federal agent during an immigration raid.
The incident happened in Minneapolis.
President Trump said Pretti shouldn't have had a gun, even though it was legal.
He described the event as a 'very unfortunate incident.'
President Trump promised an 'honest' investigation into Pretti's death.
A TikTok video shares a story about a neighborhood dispute involving a stolen package. The video uses doorbell camera footage to accuse a neighbor's roommate of taking a package. The situation has attracted comments urging the package owner to involve the police.
Key Facts
A woman named Alexandria posted a TikTok video about a neighbor's stolen package.
The original dispute began with a handwritten note asking for the package's return.
Doorbell camera footage allegedly shows a woman taking the package.
The package supposedly contained a $99 Lululemon jacket.
Additional footage suggests the same person later wore the jacket.
In Kentucky, stealing a package can be a felony.
The video led to comments urging the package owner to contact the police.
There is an increase in package theft complaints, particularly during busy shopping times.
Many schools across the U.S. are closed or switching to online learning due to Winter Storm Fern, which brought heavy snow and ice from the southern Plains to New England. The areas affected include Maryland, the D.C. area, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Texas, where school and university closures were announced because of severe winter weather.
Key Facts
Winter Storm Fern caused school closures and remote learning across many U.S. states.
The storm had winter storm warnings for over 144 million people.
Heavy snow and ice hit areas from the southern Plains to New England.
Maryland has many schools and universities closed due to icy roads.
The D.C. area also experienced school closures across multiple counties.
Nearly 300 schools in northeast Ohio announced closures due to cold temperatures.
In Oklahoma, schools in 24 counties, including Tulsa, are closed due to poor road conditions.
Hundreds of schools in North Texas, including Dallas and Fort Worth districts, are closed or remote learning due to the storm.
A Reddit user shared a story about gifts from his mother that seemed insensitive toward his wife. The mother-in-law gave the wife a hat with a word that could be taken the wrong way and a broken wine glass, despite her not drinking wine. The situation led to discussions about passive-aggressive behavior.
Key Facts
The Reddit user posted about receiving strange gifts from his mother for his wife.
The gifts included a "beachy" hat and a wine glass, which arrived broken.
The user mentioned his mother has shown disapproval of his wife before.
The mother's previous actions included giving inappropriate gifts while the wife was pregnant.
The Reddit user stated he supports his wife and does not side with his mother.
The post generated over 4,000 comments discussing the mother’s behavior as passive-aggressive.
Similar stories have been shared online about in-law conflicts.
Newsweek covered the story and attempted to reach the Reddit user for further comments.
Celebrities and influencers are sharing videos online to guide people on how to contact their government representatives to express concerns about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These videos are part of a broader movement encouraging more direct political engagement among younger generations. There is an increasing call to withhold funding for ICE following incidents that have raised concerns about the agency's actions.
Key Facts
Influencers and celebrities are posting videos about reporting ICE to elected officials.
Actress Kerry Washington and influencer Chris Olsen have shared tutorials on contacting representatives.
The movement follows protests against ICE after incidents involving federal agents in Minnesota.
ICE experienced its deadliest year in two decades in 2025, with 32 custody-related deaths.
The House passed a DHS funding bill, which includes $10 billion for ICE, sparking criticism.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer has pledged to block the DHS funding package.
Videos explain the process to engage those unfamiliar with calling representatives.
Washington's video has been viewed over six million times, highlighting its wide reach.
During a town hall meeting in Minneapolis, US Representative Ilhan Omar was sprayed with an unknown liquid by a man. She was not hurt, and the police arrested the man for assault.
Key Facts
Ilhan Omar is a US Representative from Minnesota.
She was attacked with an unknown liquid at a public meeting.
The incident happened in Minneapolis.
Omar was unharmed during the attack.
Police arrested the attacker on charges of third-degree assault.
Omar was speaking about abolishing the immigration agency ICE when the incident occurred.
The IRS has updated its guidelines for tax payments as the U.S. government plans to stop using paper checks by September 30, 2025. This change, directed by an executive order from President Donald Trump, will involve using electronic payment methods like direct deposit and prepaid cards. Despite the push for electronic payments, paper checks will still be accepted for tax payments but in limited circumstances.
Key Facts
The IRS will stop using paper checks for government payments after September 30, 2025.
The change is part of Executive Order 14247, signed by President Donald Trump.
This order aims to reduce costs, delays, and fraud risks associated with paper checks.
Taxpayers are urged to use electronic payment options, although paper checks are still allowed.
Tax refund payments will mostly be sent electronically via direct deposit.
Special provisions exist for those without bank accounts, allowing for alternative electronic payments like prepaid cards.
The deadline for filing 2025 taxes is April 15, unless an extension is granted.
A 22-year-old Black woman, Tinu Ijewemen, from Ohio, shared her experiences of racial microaggressions after owning a golden retriever. Many people have commented that golden retrievers are "a white people dog," leading to unwanted reactions from her community and strangers.
Key Facts
Tinu Ijewemen is a 22-year-old Black woman living in Ohio.
She has faced racial microaggressions related to her owning a golden retriever named Josie.
Strangers and some extended family members have made comments about her choice of dog breed.
Ijewemen describes microaggressions as stereotypes people have about Black people and their interests.
Her comments gained significant attention on Reddit, receiving over 48,000 votes and 3,700 comments.
Ijewemen appreciates support from other Black golden retriever owners online.
She expresses frustration over constant comments that challenge stereotypes about her.
President Donald Trump stated that his administration aims to reduce the tension in Minnesota following the shooting of two U.S. citizens by federal agents, including nurse Alex Pretti. Pretti was filming Border Patrol officers when he was shot. There has been criticism over the handling of the situation by Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem, who suggested without investigation that Pretti was a threat.
Key Facts
President Trump announced efforts to reduce tensions in Minnesota after Alex Pretti's shooting.
Alex Pretti, a nurse, was filming Border Patrol officers when killed.
Pretti had a license to carry a gun, which he had during the incident.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem called Pretti's actions "domestic terrorism."
Noem's statement came before investigation results and opposed initial video evidence.
Two federal officers fired during the incident, according to a report sent to Congress.
Video footage suggests Pretti did not draw his weapon during the incident.
Federal law requires notification of Congress about deaths in custody within 72 hours.
Federal immigration agents killed Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse, during an operation in Minneapolis, prompting calls for accountability and changes in immigration enforcement tactics. President Trump responded by sending "border czar" Tom Homan to Minnesota and recalling a Border Patrol commander. The incident highlights concerns about aggressive and military-style actions by immigration agents.
Key Facts
Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse, was shot and killed by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.
President Trump sent Tom Homan, referred to as "border czar," to Minnesota in response.
The incident sparked debate over the aggressive tactics used by immigration agents.
Another person, Renée Good, was killed in a similar operation weeks earlier in the same city.
There are concerns that immigration enforcement is increasingly militarized and lacks transparency.
Calls have been made for independent investigations and better accountability.
The use and clarity of body cameras and identification by agents have been questioned.
These events have raised issues about constitutional rights and law enforcement legitimacy.
President Donald Trump announced plans to reduce federal law enforcement activity in Minnesota after two fatal shootings by federal agents. The incidents involved U.S. citizens and have led to significant public reaction and calls for reduced federal presence in the state. The White House is reviewing the operations in question and making some changes to address the situation.
Key Facts
President Trump said his administration would "de-escalate" federal action in Minnesota following two fatal shootings by federal agents.
The shootings involved an ICU nurse, Alex Pretti, and another citizen, Renee Nicole Good, which sparked public outcry.
President Trump distanced himself from earlier claims that described Pretti as an "assassin."
The White House acknowledged possible breaches in protocol in the shooting incidents and is reviewing the operations.
Tom Homan was sent to Minneapolis to manage operations, and the Border Patrol commander was reassigned.
Minnesota's governor and Minneapolis's mayor have called for fewer federal agents and more cooperation with local police.
Some federal agents are expected to leave parts of Minneapolis amid ongoing protests.
Student groups plan a nationwide school walkout on January 30 to protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). They are urging people to skip work, school, and shopping to highlight immigration enforcement issues and recent fatalities linked to ICE operations. The protest includes planned demonstrations in various cities and guidance for organizing local actions.
Key Facts
Students across the U.S. are organizing a school walkout on January 30 to protest ICE.
The protest follows fatal shootings in Minneapolis involving ICE agents.
Organizers are calling for a "no work, no school, no shopping" day.
The event aims to draw attention to ICE funding and operations.
Somali and Black student groups in Minneapolis are leading the organization efforts.
The National Shutdown website provides resources and instructions for organizing protests.
Previous student protests received national media attention.
Participating groups include student associations and civil rights organizations.
Martha Stewart's granddaughter urged her to speak out about growing criticism against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Stewart's public response came after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis during a federal enforcement action. The incident has led to increased scrutiny of ICE and calls for changes in immigration enforcement.
Key Facts
Martha Stewart's granddaughter, who is 14, asked her to speak about the backlash against ICE.
Alex Pretti was killed during a federal immigration enforcement action in Minneapolis.
The incident has led to widespread criticism of ICE and increased calls for reforms.
Democrats are calling for the abolition of ICE, while numerous companies want less aggressive enforcement in Minnesota.
Martha Stewart expressed sadness about the situation and shared her granddaughter's message on Instagram.
Other public figures like Natalie Portman and Katy Perry have also spoken against ICE's current actions.
There is pressure on Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem regarding how ICE handled the incident.
A federal immigration operation in Minneapolis led to the fatal shooting of two U.S. citizens by federal agents. This incident sparked a public outcry and protests, forcing the White House to reconsider its immigration enforcement strategy in the area. President Trump has responded by making personnel changes and reducing the presence of federal agents.
Key Facts
Two U.S. citizens, Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, died after being shot by federal agents in Minneapolis.
These events have caused protests and criticism of the government's immigration policies.
The operation in Minneapolis was part of a larger effort called Operation Metro Surge, deploying over 3,000 agents.
The original investigation targeted alleged welfare fraud in the Somali community but was overshadowed by the shootings.
President Trump ordered changes, including reducing agents in the Twin Cities and replacing leadership on the ground.
Greg Bovino, previously in charge, was removed, with Tom Homan appointed to manage efforts locally.
The controversy mirrors backlash from previous federal immigration operations in cities like Los Angeles and Chicago.
The Empire State Child Credit in New York has been expanded to provide more financial support to families with young children. These changes mean families can receive larger tax credits, especially those with children under 4 years old, starting in the 2026 filing season. The expansion also allows low- and middle-income families to benefit more from these credits.
Key Facts
The Empire State Child Credit expansion was announced by New York Governor Kathy Hochul.
Families with children under 4 years old can receive up to $1,000 per child.
Families with children between 4 and 16 years old can receive up to $330 per child in the 2026 filing season, increasing to $500 in the following year.
The minimum income requirement for receiving the credit has been removed, allowing more low-income families to benefit fully.
Families earning up to $110,000 (jointly) can still claim the full credit; higher incomes may receive partial benefits.
The expanded credit is expected to almost double the average payout from $472 to $943.
Analysts estimate that the expansion could reduce child poverty in New York by more than 8%.
To qualify, filers must be full-year New York residents with a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
During an event in Minneapolis, a man attacked U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar by spraying an unknown liquid at her. President Trump commented on the incident, suggesting Omar "probably had herself sprayed." The suspect, Anthony Kazmierczak, has been arrested and charged with third-degree assault.
Key Facts
Ilhan Omar was holding a town hall meeting in Minneapolis.
A man ran towards her and sprayed an unknown liquid using a syringe.
The attacker is identified as 55-year-old Anthony Kazmierczak.
Kazmierczak was arrested and charged with third-degree assault.
President Trump was asked about the incident but had not watched any video of it.
Trump remarked that Omar "probably had herself sprayed."
The incident report comes from sources like ABC News and The Associated Press.
