President Donald Trump plans to nominate Senator Markwayne Mullin from Oklahoma as the new Secretary of Homeland Security. Mullin, a former plumbing company owner, began his political career in Congress in 2012.
Key Facts
President Trump intends to nominate Markwayne Mullin for Homeland Security Secretary.
Markwayne Mullin is a Republican Senator from Oklahoma.
Mullin was originally elected to Congress in 2012.
Before politics, Mullin owned a plumbing company.
He is known as a strong supporter of President Trump in the Senate.
Mullin's selection follows the firing of Kristi Noem from the same position.
The city of Hialeah in Florida plans to give some seniors rebates on their property taxes to reduce their costs. The program is approved but awaits a final vote and would help seniors with limited incomes by returning money they paid in taxes. There is debate about whether this use of tax funds is legally acceptable.
Key Facts
Hialeah, Florida, plans to begin a program to rebate property taxes for certain seniors.
Seniors 65 and older with incomes under $37,694 might get rebates for city taxes in 2025.
About 2,225 senior households could benefit, with average rebates of $539.
The program is expected to cost $1.2 million, using surplus funds from the city, not new taxes.
The initiative has been approved by the city council but needs a final vote.
This rebate program does not include county and school taxes.
There are legal concerns about using tax revenue to help only a specific group of residents.
The rebate was a campaign promise by Hialeah’s young mayor, Bryan Calvo.
A Pew Research Center study found that 53% of U.S. adults believe that Americans have poor morals, which is higher than any other country surveyed. The survey highlighted a partisan split, with Democrats more likely than Republicans to view fellow citizens' morals negatively.
Key Facts
Pew Research Center conducted a study on the perceived morals of citizens across 25 countries.
In the U.S., 53% of people rated fellow Americans' morals as “bad,” the highest among the countries surveyed.
The survey took place among 3,605 adults in the U.S. from March 24 to 30, 2025.
Outside the U.S., 28,333 adults were surveyed from January 8 to April 26, 2025.
Democratic-leaning individuals in the U.S. were more likely than Republican-leaning ones to view morals negatively (60% vs. 46%).
The survey found that 39% of U.S. adults deemed homosexuality morally wrong compared to lower percentages in Germany and Sweden.
Pew found that 90% of Americans viewed extramarital affairs as morally wrong.
Americans were less likely to see marijuana use (23%) and gambling (29%) as morally unacceptable compared to some other countries.
Kansas lawmakers have passed a bill to classify kratom as a highly restricted substance, similar to heroin, due to concerns about a potent compound it contains. This would make the sale and possession of kratom illegal in the state. The Kansas Senate approved the bill, which will now go to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Key Facts
Kansas aims to ban kratom by classifying it under the state's strictest drug category.
The Senate Bill 497 targets a potent compound in kratom called 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH.
The Kansas Senate voted 33-5 to support the bill, which would make kratom illegal.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that 7-OH is a risky compound not approved for use in foods or supplements.
Critics of the ban are concerned it could negatively affect those using kratom for opioid recovery.
Supporters say a complete ban would prevent legal loopholes for stronger kratom-based products.
The bill will also broaden the state's definition of fentanyl-related drugs.
Gas prices in the U.S. have risen to their highest level since President Donald Trump began his second term. This increase is linked to a military operation involving the U.S. and Israel against Iran. Officials are discussing strategies to manage these rising prices and stabilize oil supply flows.
Key Facts
The average national gas price in the U.S. is now $3.32 per gallon, up from $3.11 a year ago.
This is the highest gas price during either of President Trump's terms.
The U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran, which led to higher global oil prices.
Iran's response includes attacks on Israel and attempts to block the Strait of Hormuz.
Brent crude oil prices increased significantly, nearing $100 per barrel.
The U.S. plans to provide political risk insurance for Gulf trade and possibly use the Navy to ensure safe passage of ships.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned upcoming measures to address oil supply issues.
President Trump expressed confidence that gas prices will decrease after the situation improves.
Millions of Americans are getting larger tax refunds this year due to new tax breaks introduced under President Donald Trump's recently passed tax law. The average refund has increased by about $775 for those who claim the new deductions.
Key Facts
The average tax refund this year is about $3,804, which is roughly 10% more than the same time last year.
Over 40% of the tax returns filed so far include at least one new deduction from the recently passed tax law.
Popular deductions include a $12,500 deduction for overtime pay and a $6,000 bonus for seniors.
New tax provisions also include deductions for tipped income and incentives for buying American-made vehicles.
Families with children benefit from larger, refundable tax credits, which can increase refunds even for those who owe little or nothing in taxes.
Households with adjusted gross incomes below $100,000 are seeing the most benefit from these new tax breaks.
The average refund gain could rise to $1,000 by the end of the tax season if current trends continue.
Some financial experts note that while refunds are larger, ongoing inflation may offset these financial gains for many taxpayers.
A social media post from the White House features clips from movies mixed with footage of military strikes on Iran, sparking backlash. Public opinion is divided, with many criticizing President Trump's approach to the conflict. As the conflict continues, discussions about U.S. military actions and foreign policy are ongoing.
Key Facts
The White House posted a video mixing movie clips with military strike footage on social media.
The video includes scenes from popular films and characters like Iron Man and John Wick.
The video ends with the phrase "Flawless Victory" and is captioned "JUSTICE THE AMERICAN WAY."
Many people criticized the video, calling it inappropriate and disgraceful.
A small number of viewers praised the post, including actor Kevin Sorbo.
The video has been viewed millions of times, drawing widespread attention.
Public opinion in the U.S. is divided about the strikes on Iran and President Trump's handling.
President Trump acknowledged the death of U.S. soldiers, calling them patriots and predicting more losses.
A suspected tornado hit northern Oklahoma, killing a mother and daughter whose vehicle was struck. More severe storms with risks of hail and tornadoes are expected across Oklahoma and nearby states this weekend.
Key Facts
A mother and daughter died when a suspected tornado hit their vehicle in northern Oklahoma.
The incident happened near Fairview, about 100 miles northwest of Oklahoma City.
The Major County Sheriff's Office confirmed their deaths late Thursday night.
Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are expected in Oklahoma and other states like Texas, Arkansas, and Kansas.
Meteorologists predict very large hail and high wind speeds in parts of these states.
The National Weather Service warned of strong storms and possible tornadoes, especially on Friday and Saturday.
People in some U.S. states may experience delays in getting their tax refunds this year. The delays are due to staffing shortages, software issues, and adjustments to new tax rules introduced by President Donald Trump. Different states are handling the changes in various ways, leading to confusion and slower refund processing.
Key Facts
Taxpayers in several U.S. states might face delays in receiving tax refunds.
Staffing shortages and software problems contribute to the delay.
Changes in tax rules from President Trump's legislation cause processing issues.
Some states need to update their systems to align with federal tax changes.
Oregon is delaying paper tax processing until the end of March due to late IRS updates.
Idaho faces significant delays because of budget cuts and a reduced workforce.
South Carolina has chosen not to align with certain new federal tax rules, complicating returns.
In Washington, D.C., a dispute over tax rule alignment has disrupted processing.
New York has encountered a TurboTax software glitch, affecting filing.
The U.S. lost 92,000 jobs last month, and the unemployment rate rose to 4.4%. The job market showed unexpected weakness after a stronger January, influenced by multiple factors, including high interest rates and a recent war.
Key Facts
The U.S. cut 92,000 jobs last month.
The unemployment rate increased to 4.4%.
Economists had expected 60,000 new jobs in February.
Revisions decreased job numbers by 69,000 for December and January.
Job losses occurred in construction, healthcare, manufacturing, restaurants, and bars.
Financial firms added 10,000 jobs last month.
Average hourly wages increased by 0.4% from January and 3.8% from a year ago.
The current war with Iran adds uncertainty to the job market.
Los Angeles County officials plan to legally challenge a new federal rule that, starting in 2026, will prevent green card holders from accessing loans backed by the Small Business Administration (SBA). This rule is part of broader immigration changes under President Trump's administration, aimed at limiting certain federal program participations to U.S. citizens.
Key Facts
Los Angeles County is challenging a new federal rule effective in 2026 that affects green card holders.
The rule prevents lawful permanent residents from owning interest in businesses seeking SBA-backed loans.
This change is linked to an Executive Order under President Donald Trump focusing on "protecting the American people."
The rule change reverses a long-standing policy that allowed non-citizen ownership in SBA-backed business ventures.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors decided to explore legal action against the new rule.
The rule is part of wider immigration-related policy shifts affecting lawful permanent residents and others.
The SBA, a federal agency, supports small business growth and traditionally offered loans to both U.S. citizens and green card holders.
A memorial service in Chicago is being held to celebrate the life of Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., a prominent civil rights leader. The event will include speeches from former Presidents Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Bill Clinton, as well as music from Grammy-winning artists.
Key Facts
The memorial service for Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. is taking place in Chicago.
The event is expected to begin at 12 p.m. EST.
Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. was a civil rights leader and a two-time presidential candidate.
The service will occur at a large Black church with a 10,000-seat arena.
Former U.S. Presidents Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Bill Clinton will speak at the event.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris is also listed as a speaker.
Grammy-winning music artist BeBe Winans will perform at the service.
This event is expected to be the largest among recent memorial services for Jackson.
Kristi Noem is leaving her job as the head of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Senator Markwayne Mullin is expected to take over, pending Senate confirmation. Mullin will face a tough situation with a department that is partially shutdown and dealing with issues like investigations into fatal shootings by federal agents and legal challenges over immigration policies.
Key Facts
Kristi Noem is leaving her role as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
President Donald Trump has nominated Senator Markwayne Mullin to replace her, pending Senate approval.
DHS is currently in a partial shutdown due to budget issues linked to immigration enforcement disputes.
Two fatal shootings by federal agents during an immigration operation in Minnesota have led to protests and investigations.
Mullin will need to address lawsuits against DHS for its immigration practices.
The shutdown affects thousands of employees who are working without pay.
Senate Democrats are holding up the budget until their immigration enforcement concerns are addressed.
President Donald Trump nominated Senator Markwayne Mullin to be the new Secretary of Homeland Security. Mullin has been a strong supporter of immigration enforcement and has defended ICE agents, while also advocating for secure borders and defunding sanctuary cities. His nomination follows criticism of the current Department of Homeland Security's practices under Kristi Noem, including concerns over immigration enforcement and disaster response.
Key Facts
President Trump nominated Senator Markwayne Mullin to become Secretary of Homeland Security.
Mullin's nomination needs Senate approval and is expected to take effect on March 31.
Mullin has supported ICE and called its agents "red-blooded American patriots."
He has spoken against attacks on ICE, stating that assaults on agents have increased by 1,300%.
Mullin said that local issues in Minneapolis led to enforcement problems, not ICE practices.
He has expressed support for border security and deportations.
Mullin has backed efforts to defund sanctuary cities and states that do not enforce federal immigration law.
Odds of President Donald Trump being impeached during his second term have reached a record high of 67%, due to tensions in the Middle East. However, with Republicans holding the majority in Congress, actual impeachment is seen as unlikely before the midterm elections.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump’s impeachment odds during his second term have risen to 67%, according to betting markets.
Tensions with Iran and the Middle East conflict have led to calls for his impeachment.
Kalshi's betting market reflects these odds, showing the highest likelihood since his return to office.
On the Polymarket platform, odds of impeachment through 2026 have decreased to 11%.
Republicans control both the House of Representatives and the Senate, making impeachment less likely.
Impeachment requires a two-thirds majority in the Senate for conviction, which is difficult to achieve.
The White House has dismissed impeachment calls, focusing on President Trump's actions against Iran.
In December 2025, the House voted against an impeachment resolution related to Trump's comments on military orders.
Belleka Inc has recalled more than 27,000 units of its Tomum Minoxidil Hair Regrowth Treatment because the packaging is not child-resistant. This recall is due to a risk of poisoning in children if the product is swallowed. The product was sold on Amazon from March to September 2025, but no injuries have been reported.
Key Facts
Belleka Inc recalled 27,400 units of Tomum Minoxidil Hair Regrowth Treatment.
The packaging is not child-resistant, which could lead to poisoning if swallowed by young children.
The product was sold on Amazon.com from March to September 2025.
It was sold in silver spray bottles with a blue label and black cap, packaged in a blue box.
No injuries or incidents have been reported as of March 5.
Consumers are advised to stop using the product and keep it away from children.
Customers can contact Belleka for free child-resistant replacement bottles.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission highlighted the recall due to non-compliance with child safety packaging laws.
Most Florida voters support a proposal to phase out property taxes, according to a University of North Florida poll. However, the support falls short of the supermajority needed to change the state constitution. The proposal to eliminate non-school property taxes would need 60% voter approval but currently has 56% support.
Key Facts
A poll shows 56% of Florida voters support a proposal to phase out property taxes.
The proposal seeks to eliminate all non-school taxes on homes with a homestead exemption.
Property taxes in Florida have increased by nearly 60% in some areas since 2019.
Governor Ron DeSantis has shown support for eliminating homesteaded property taxes.
Eight bills for property tax relief were proposed, but only one passed through the Senate.
A constitutional amendment requires 60% voter support to pass.
Republicans show more support for the proposal (76%) than Democrats (27%) or Independents (56%).
The proposal could reduce local government revenue by $14.7 billion starting in 2027.
California Democrat Ted Lieu has requested a special counsel to investigate Attorney General Pam Bondi after the Department of Justice released memos containing unverified sexual assault allegations against President Donald Trump. These allegations, related to Trump and his past association with Jeffrey Epstein, have not been proven. President Trump denies any wrongdoing.
Key Facts
Ted Lieu, a Democratic representative from California, wants a special investigation into Attorney General Pam Bondi.
The Department of Justice released FBI memos about unverified sexual assault allegations against President Trump.
The allegations involve a woman who claimed Trump assaulted her in the 1980s.
President Trump denies the allegations and says his friendship with Epstein ended in the early 2000s.
The White House has labeled the allegations as "false and sensationalist."
The DOJ stated that some released documents might contain false claims submitted to the FBI.
More than 3 million pages related to Epstein have been made public as part of a push for transparency.
A former FBI agent, Jason Pack, mentioned that the FBI returning to Nancy Guthrie's neighborhood is a positive sign. Nancy Guthrie, mother of TV host Savannah Guthrie, has been missing since January, and the search involves various law enforcement agencies. The FBI's continued presence suggests their investigation is ongoing.
Key Facts
Nancy Guthrie has been missing since the end of January.
She is the mother of Savannah Guthrie, who co-hosts the Today show.
The search for her is drawing national attention and involves multiple local and federal agencies.
Retired FBI agent Jason Pack commented on the investigation's progress.
FBI agents recently returned to Guthrie's neighborhood, indicating continued interest in the case.
Agents look at doorbell and surveillance footage, cell phone records, and retail purchase data to gather information.
The investigation aims to create a clearer timeline of events around Nancy's disappearance.
A new law in New York exempts veterans with a 100% service-connected disability from paying property taxes on their primary homes. The law, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, is mandatory for all towns and cities in the state and will take effect on October 1, 2026.
Key Facts
Veterans in New York who are 100% disabled due to military service will not pay property taxes on their primary home.
The law was signed by Governor Kathy Hochul and removes the local opt-in, making it a statewide requirement.
Around 688,611 veterans live in New York, with about 30% reported to have disabilities.
Housing costs, including property taxes, have risen significantly in New York since the pandemic.
Six counties in New York have some of the highest property taxes in the U.S., with payments often over $10,000 annually.
The new exemption will apply starting with the 2027 tax assessment year.
Veterans must prove they were honorably discharged to qualify for the exemption.
