Representative Tony Gonzales is heading to a runoff in his Texas primary after admitting to an affair with a former staffer who died by suicide. Betting markets are now showing low confidence in his chances of winning the nomination, favoring his opponent Brandon Herrera instead.
Key Facts
Tony Gonzales is a Republican incumbent in Texas' 23rd Congressional District.
He is going to a primary runoff after not securing a majority in the first round.
Gonzales admitted to having an affair with Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who later died by suicide.
The House Ethics Committee is investigating Gonzales for allegations of misconduct.
Brandon Herrera, a gun manufacturer, led the primary with 43.3% votes, closely followed by Gonzales with 41.7%.
Prediction markets heavily favor Herrera to win the Republican nomination.
Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales admitted to having an affair with an aide, Regina Santos-Aviles, after earlier denying it. The House Ethics Committee is investigating whether he engaged in sexual misconduct or unfair favoritism. Gonzales is facing calls for resignation and must compete in a primary run-off to remain a Republican candidate.
Key Facts
Congressman Tony Gonzales admitted to an affair with his aide, Regina Santos-Aviles.
Santos-Aviles died by suicide in September 2025, which Gonzales states was unrelated to the affair.
The House Ethics Committee is investigating potential misconduct and unfair treatment by Gonzales.
Gonzales said staff-wide pay increases included Santos-Aviles and denied giving her special treatment.
Gonzales faces calls to resign from within his party, including from Congresswoman Nancy Mace.
Gonzales is running in a primary run-off to be the Republican candidate for his congressional district.
He was endorsed by President Donald Trump before the affair allegations surfaced.
Text messages from 2024 showed Gonzales asked Santos-Aviles to send explicit photos.
Four more states—Kansas, Ohio, Nevada, and Wyoming—have received approval to limit what can be bought with SNAP benefits, focusing on reducing purchases of sugary foods and drinks. These changes affect the federal assistance program aimed at helping low-income Americans buy groceries, with new rules rolling out between 2026 and 2028. SNAP benefits, also known as food stamps, help over 40 million people, and now 22 states have similar restrictions on what can be purchased.
Key Facts
Four states—Kansas, Ohio, Nevada, and Wyoming—can now limit SNAP purchases of sugary products.
The restrictions will begin in these states from 2026 to 2028.
Kansas, Ohio, Nevada, and Wyoming will prevent buying certain candies and soft drinks with SNAP.
SNAP, or food stamps, is a federal aid program for helping low-income people buy food.
22 states now have waivers to limit SNAP purchases considered "junk food."
More than 40 million Americans use SNAP benefits for groceries.
The USDA, a federal agency, approves any changes to the SNAP program.
Only a few Democratic-led states have adopted these restrictions, while most are from Republican-led states.
Brian C. McGinnis was removed from a Senate office after disrupting a hearing about the U.S. military campaign in Iran. He was arrested and charged with assaulting police officers and resisting arrest. McGinnis is known to be a political candidate, a firefighter, and a former Marine.
Key Facts
Brian C. McGinnis disrupted a Senate Armed Services hearing to protest against actions in Iran.
U.S. Capitol Police and Senator Tim Sheehy physically removed McGinnis from the building.
McGinnis was arrested and faces six charges, including assault and resisting arrest.
An Instagram account in McGinnis's name shows posts about attending the protest.
He is a political candidate in North Carolina, a firefighter, and has served as a Marine.
Senator Tim Sheehy, who helped in McGinnis's removal, is a Republican from Montana and a former Navy SEAL.
The U.S. Senate voted on a measure to limit President Trump's power to continue military actions in Iran without Congress's approval. The bill was defeated by a vote of 53 to 47 and mostly divided senators along party lines. The conflict with Iran continues, following a joint U.S.-Israel attack that killed Iran’s Supreme Leader.
Key Facts
The Senate voted 53-47 against a measure to limit President Trump's military power in Iran.
Most Republicans voted against the measure; most Democrats supported it.
Senator Rand Paul was the only Republican to support the resolution.
Senator John Fetterman was the only Democrat to vote against it.
The conflict began after a joint U.S.-Israel attack killed Iran's Supreme Leader.
Since the conflict started, 6 U.S. soldiers have died in what is called "Operation Epic Fury."
President Trump said that no U.S. troops will be deployed on the ground in Iran.
The legality of the U.S.-Israeli strikes has been questioned by U.N. experts and U.S. lawmakers.
Democratic Representative Jared Moskowitz wore a pin that read "Justice for Cricket" while questioning Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. This pin referred to a controversial story from Noem's book, where she described shooting her dog after it killed chickens. Moskowitz's actions occurred amid ongoing scrutiny of Noem and the Department of Homeland Security by lawmakers.
Key Facts
Representative Jared Moskowitz is from Florida and is a Democrat.
He wore a lapel pin that said "Justice for Cricket" during a public hearing.
The pin referred to an incident described in Kristi Noem's book where she shot her dog.
The incident involved Noem's dog, Cricket, killing a family's chickens.
Kristi Noem is the Secretary of Homeland Security.
The Department of Homeland Security is under scrutiny for purchasing expensive aircraft.
More than 40 House Democrats urged the White House to stop these aircraft purchases.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Health and Human Services Secretary, stated that companies like Dunkin' Donuts and Starbucks should provide safety information about their ingredients. This announcement led to jokes and memes on social media, particularly focused on sugar content concerns in popular beverages.
Key Facts
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the current Health and Human Services Secretary.
He wants companies like Dunkin' Donuts and Starbucks to show safety data for their ingredients.
Kennedy's comments are part of his "Make America Healthy Again" campaign, focusing on healthier eating.
Social media, especially platform X, reacted with jokes and memes about the announcement.
Kennedy has highlighted concerns over ultra-processed foods and their health impact.
Over 70% of American adults are considered overweight or obese.
Kennedy aims to close a gap in food regulation known as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) policies.
GRAS policies allow some food ingredients to be used without FDA approval.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey responded to comments from Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about Dunkin’ Donuts questioning the safety of its ingredients with a notable online post. The post drew attention to a wider debate about federal oversight of food ingredients and highlighted regional economic concerns tied to Dunkin’, a major Massachusetts brand.
Key Facts
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. questioned the safety of ingredients in products from Dunkin’ Donuts and Starbucks.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey reacted by posting an image with a Dunkin’ cup referencing the "Come and Take It" flag, signaling resistance to potential federal actions.
Dunkin’ is a significant employer and brand in Massachusetts.
Kennedy frames his proposals as public health reforms to improve food safety in the U.S.
Kennedy's comments are part of a broader push to change U.S. food ingredient approval, including closing what he calls the "GRAS loophole."
MAHA Action, Kennedy’s nonprofit, aims for American foods to meet global safety and nutritional standards.
The Trump administration recently introduced new dietary guidelines focused on reducing added sugars.
It is uncertain if Kennedy’s comments will lead to regulatory changes affecting Dunkin’ or other companies.
Ohio will ban the purchase of sugary carbonated drinks with SNAP benefits starting October 1, 2026, following approval from the USDA. This decision is part of a larger effort to encourage healthier eating and improve public health for people receiving food assistance. Other states have implemented or are considering similar rules.
Key Facts
Ohio will stop allowing SNAP benefits to be used to buy sugary carbonated drinks.
The USDA gave Ohio the okay to make this change.
About 1.3 million people in Ohio use SNAP benefits.
This change aims to improve health by reducing sugar intake, which can lead to health problems like obesity and diabetes.
Ohio's new rule will take effect on October 1, 2026.
Other states like Indiana, Iowa, and Louisiana have similar restrictions in place.
Ohio will implement additional measures for SNAP, like putting responsibility for compliance on retailers.
Some states plan more bans, including various snacks and drinks, by 2027.
In a recent Texas Senate primary, Democrats saw increased voter turnout and enthusiasm, particularly in areas like South Texas and North Texas suburbs. James Talarico defeated U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, with notable Democratic participation despite a historical Republican advantage in the state. However, challenges remain for Democrats to win statewide elections, as they haven't since 1994.
Key Facts
Democratic voter turnout was higher in Texas Senate primaries compared to previous years.
South Texas, a predominantly Hispanic region, saw 71% of primary voters casting ballots for Democrats.
James Talarico won over Jasmine Crockett in key areas, including majority-Hispanic counties.
Collin County, traditionally Republican, had 57% of votes in the Democratic primary.
In Tarrant County, 57% of votes were for Democrats, although Crockett led there.
Williamson County, just north of Austin, had 56% participation in the Democratic primary, with Talarico winning.
Texas Democrats have not won a statewide election since 1994, posing a challenge in upcoming general elections.
GOP strategist Hogan Gidley compared Texas for Democrats to Minnesota for Republicans, suggesting it may be difficult for Democrats to win despite hopeful signs.
A Democratic lawmaker, Representative Hank Johnson Jr., has reintroduced a bill called the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act of 2026. The bill aims to restrict the transfer of military-grade equipment from the Pentagon to police departments in the U.S. It has support from 19 House Democrats and various advocacy groups.
Key Facts
The bill, H.R. 7766, was introduced by Representative Hank Johnson Jr. on March 3, 2026.
It seeks to limit the transfer of surplus military equipment to law enforcement agencies.
The proposal focuses on the “1033 program,” which allows police departments to obtain military equipment.
The bill would prohibit transfers of certain military items like weapons and armored vehicles.
It includes requirements for tracking and accountability of all transferred equipment.
The American Civil Liberties Union and Amnesty International USA are among the supporting organizations.
Concerns about police using military gear have been a topic of debate in the U.S.
The House Armed Services Committee is currently reviewing the bill.
Texas Rep. Dan Crenshaw lost his primary because a wealthy donor, Robert Marling, funded a campaign against him. Marling donated a large sum to support Steve Toth, who won the race. This situation highlights how one person's money can greatly influence elections.
Key Facts
Rep. Dan Crenshaw lost his primary to Texas State Rep. Steve Toth.
Billionaire Robert Marling funded $675,000 in anti-Crenshaw ads through a super PAC.
Marling's contributions accounted for two-thirds of the money spent by the super PAC against Crenshaw.
There was a personal feud between Crenshaw and Marling, and differing views on Crenshaw's conservatism.
Marling influenced the campaign by encouraging President Trump and his allies not to endorse Crenshaw.
President Trump did not endorse any candidate in the primary.
Ted Cruz, a Texas Senator and longtime Marling ally, endorsed Toth in the final stages.
Marling secured support from Ted Cruz, who had a personal connection with him.
Law enforcement shot and killed James Douglas McMillan, 33, of Wisconsin, after a pursuit and shootout near El Paso, Texas. McMillan fled from a Border Patrol checkpoint, fired at officers, and was stopped by authorities about 70 miles away. No officers or civilians were hurt.
Key Facts
James Douglas McMillan was involved in a high-speed chase with law enforcement.
The chase began after a drug-detection dog alerted officers to McMillan’s vehicle.
McMillan fired a weapon from his vehicle at officers and civilian cars on the highway.
Law enforcement returned fire and used a maneuver to stop McMillan’s vehicle.
McMillan barricaded himself in his vehicle and threatened officers with a weapon.
Officers then shot and killed McMillan; no officers or civilians were injured.
The pursuit involved state troopers, sheriff’s office officers, and Border Patrol Tactical Unit.
The specific agency that shot McMillan was not immediately identified.
A viral post on Threads shows a humorous and indirect text a landlord sent to a tenant as a rent reminder. The message drew attention to the challenges between landlords and tenants, especially during a time when many renters in the U.S. face financial difficulties. The Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies reported that a significant number of renters spend a large portion of their income on housing.
Key Facts
A post on Threads about a landlord's humorous rent reminder text went viral, gathering 1.4 million views.
The landlord's indirect wording in the text was seen as both funny and relatable to many people.
The post highlights the issues in communication between tenants and landlords.
The Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies found that 22.6 million U.S. renters spent more than 30% of their income on housing in 2023.
Over 12.1 million renters in the U.S. spent more than half of their income on housing costs.
The financial strain on renters affects both lower-income and higher-income households.
Commenters on the post discussed the awkwardness landlords feel when requesting rent.
The conversation reflects broader issues of rent affordability and tenant-landlord relationships in the U.S.
The U.S. House of Representatives voted to stop a proposal by Representative Nancy Mace. The proposal aimed to release all congressional reports on sexual misconduct and harassment. The reports will stay confidential under current rules.
Key Facts
The House voted 357–65 to send Mace's proposal to the House Ethics Committee, stopping it for now.
Representative Nancy Mace wanted to make misconduct reports public to increase transparency.
The Ethics Committee said publicizing these reports could harm victims and discourage cooperation.
There was extra attention on a case involving Representative Tony Gonzales, who admitted to having an affair with an aide.
House rules forbid relationships between lawmakers and their staff.
Mace, a survivor of sexual assault, urged Gonzales to step down.
Some lawmakers, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, opposed the proposal, saying it lacked protections for victims.
Reports on congressional sexual misconduct remain confidential under current rules.
A progressive candidate, Nida Allam, lost the Democratic primary in North Carolina's 4th district. Despite support from anti-AIPAC groups and progressive leaders, Allam was defeated by incumbent Valerie Foushee by a narrow margin.
Key Facts
Nida Allam lost to Valerie Foushee in North Carolina's 4th district Democratic primary.
Foushee received 49.2 percent of the votes, while Allam got 48.2 percent.
The vote count was almost complete, with 99 percent counted.
Allam was supported by a super PAC opposing AIPAC, which spent over $500,000.
She also had backing from Bernie Sanders and several progressive organizations.
Allam criticized Foushee for previous ties to the pro-Israel lobby group AIPAC.
James Fishback, running as a Republican candidate for governor in Florida, announced that his campaign is banned from all Waffle House locations in the state. He had planned to visit these restaurants to connect with voters. Waffle House has not yet commented on the situation.
Key Facts
James Fishback is a Republican candidate for governor in Florida.
Fishback planned to visit every Waffle House in Florida to meet voters.
He stated that Waffle House revoked his campaign's permission to visit their locations.
The announcement about the ban was made on Wednesday.
Fishback revealed this situation in an interview on the Tucker Carlson Show.
Newsweek reached out to Fishback and Waffle House for comments but hasn't received a response yet.
A mother in Mississippi, Sloane Lyle, noticed her son's crib moving at night and checked the baby monitor to find out why. The footage revealed her son was moving the crib himself by headbutting it, a common behavior for some toddlers as a form of self-soothing. After sharing the video on TikTok, other parents shared similar stories, reassuring her that this behavior is normal.
Key Facts
Sloane Lyle from Tupelo, Mississippi, noticed her son's crib moving nightly.
She used a baby camera to investigate the cause.
The footage showed her son moving the crib by headbutting it at night.
This behavior is a form of self-soothing common among toddlers.
A pediatrician assured her the behavior is normal and not harmful.
Lyle posted the video on TikTok where many parents shared similar experiences.
The topic gained attention because many parents could relate but hadn’t discussed it before.
Republican Representative Tony Gonzales admitted to an affair with a former aide, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who later died by suicide. He is facing a runoff election and has been asked to step down due to the allegations. Gonzales has taken responsibility and stated that he has reconciled with his wife and sought forgiveness.
Key Facts
Tony Gonzales is a Republican Representative for Texas' 23rd congressional district.
Gonzales admitted to an affair with his former aide, Regina Ann Santos-Aviles, who died by suicide in 2025.
The affair supposedly took place in 2024, according to text messages obtained by the San Antonio Express-News.
Gonzales is facing calls to resign and a runoff election with challenger Brandon Herrera.
He has publicly apologized and said he has reconciled with his wife.
Gonzales believes that God has forgiven his actions and stated his faith remains strong.
U.S. Senator Steve Daines announced he will not run for reelection in Montana. President Donald Trump has endorsed Kurt Alme, a former U.S. Attorney, as a candidate for Daines' Senate seat. The primary election in Montana will take place on June 2, with the general election on November 3.
Key Facts
Senator Steve Daines decided not to seek reelection in 2026.
President Donald Trump endorsed Kurt Alme for the Senate seat.
Trump made his endorsement public on the platform Truth Social.
Kurt Alme previously served as a U.S. Attorney for Montana.
Alme has received endorsements from Governor Greg Gianforte and Senator Tim Sheehy.
The primary election in Montana is scheduled for June 2.
Alme is a graduate of the University of Colorado and Harvard Law School.
Alme has experience in financial investigations like fraud and tax evasion.
