FBI Director Kash Patel stated that people cannot legally bring loaded guns to protests. This comment followed a shooting incident involving a concealed carry permit holder, Alex Pretti, during a protest in Minneapolis. An investigation by the Department of Homeland Security is underway.
Key Facts
FBI Director Kash Patel claimed that carrying loaded guns to protests is illegal.
Alex Pretti, who had a concealed carry permit, was shot during a protest in Minneapolis.
Government officials said Pretti intended to harm law enforcement.
Video footage does not show Pretti pointing a gun at agents.
Border Patrol agents found a gun and ammunition on Pretti.
The Department of Homeland Security is conducting an internal investigation.
Gun rights advocates argue that carrying arms is protected by the Second Amendment, even during protests.
President Donald Trump's speech in Clive, Iowa, was interrupted twice by protesters. Supporters of President Trump responded by chanting "U-S-A," and he said the protesters were "paid agitators."
Key Facts
President Trump's speech occurred in Clive, Iowa.
The speech was interrupted twice by protesters.
Supporters of President Trump chanted "U-S-A" to drown out the second protester.
President Trump referred to the protesters as "paid agitators."
The article is described as a breaking news story, suggesting more updates will follow.
President Donald Trump announced that he sent Tom Homan, known as the "border czar," to Minnesota. Trump mentioned that this move aims to "de-escalate" the situation there.
Key Facts
President Trump spoke about sending Tom Homan to Minnesota.
Tom Homan is referred to as the "border czar."
Trump's comments were made during an interview on Fox News.
The goal of sending Homan is to "de-escalate" the situation.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt did not confirm if this move's purpose was to calm things.
President Donald Trump's approval rating with independent voters has reached its lowest point ever, according to a new poll by The Economist and YouGov. The survey shows that Trump's net approval rating among independents is negative, with low approval and high disapproval scores.
Key Facts
The poll shows Trump has a 39% overall approval rating and a 57% disapproval rating.
Among independents, Trump's approval rating is 27%, while 67% disapprove of his performance.
The poll surveyed 1,684 U.S. adults between January 23 and January 26, with a margin of error of 3.3%.
Trump’s net approval rating with independents is -40, a drop from -31 the previous week.
Independent voters are seen as key to winning competitive political races.
Other national polls also show Trump's approval rating near or below 40%.
Trump criticized polls as "fake" on Truth Social, claiming they misrepresent his achievements.
Polls will continue as the midterm elections approach in 2026.
President Donald Trump filed a $5 billion lawsuit against JPMorgan Chase, claiming the bank closed his accounts for political reasons. This highlights concerns about "debanking," where financial services are withdrawn based on non-financial reasons. Data shows that debanking has affected various groups, but there is limited evidence that it specifically targets conservatives as Trump suggests.
Key Facts
President Trump filed a lawsuit against JPMorgan Chase for allegedly closing his accounts for political reasons.
The lawsuit claims the closures followed the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol.
Trump has been vocal about "debanking," stating it targets conservatives, though evidence is limited.
A review of complaints to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau found few related to political or religious reasons.
Banks sometimes close accounts due to "reputational risk," which involves social and political considerations.
Studies show Muslim and Jewish Americans are more frequently affected by debanking than Christians.
The issue of debanking has been a focus for the Trump administration, which took steps to prevent banks from closing accounts based on political bias.
A judge in Virginia decided that a plan by Democrats to redraw Congressional district maps was illegal. The judge said the proposal was not valid because it didn't follow a rule about timing before elections.
Key Facts
A Virginia judge ruled against a Democrat-backed redistricting plan.
The plan aimed to change Congressional district maps in Virginia.
Judge Jack Hurley Jr. found the proposal illegal.
The reason was a technicality in state law about proposal timing.
Proposals must be filed three months before a general election according to the law.
The plan was submitted less than one week before state elections.
This decision could affect Democrats' chances in the U.S. House elections.
A federal judge in Texas decided to stop the removal of a father and his five-year-old son by U.S. immigration authorities until a lawsuit is settled. The father, Adrian Conejo Arias, was arrested by ICE in Minnesota, and he has sued several federal officials, including the Homeland Security Secretary. The case involves a dispute over how immigration authorities handled the arrest and the child's safety.
Key Facts
A Texas federal judge ruled that Adrian Conejo Arias and his son cannot be removed from the U.S. until the lawsuit is resolved.
Adrian Conejo Arias was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minnesota.
Conejo Arias is suing President Donald Trump's administration and other federal officials.
The Department of Homeland Security accused Conejo Arias of abandoning his child during the arrest.
ICE claims they ensured the child's safety during the arrest process.
Columbia Heights Public Schools Superintendent reported the child was involved in the ICE operation.
ICE stated they did not intentionally target the child.
A Republican and a Democrat in Congress asked President Donald Trump to consider reforms that would give legal protections to millions of immigrants. They sent a letter highlighting the need for immigration and border security discussions between Congress and the President.
Key Facts
GOP Representative Brian Fitzpatrick from Pennsylvania and Democrat Tom Suozzi from New York sent the letter.
They are co-chairs of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus.
The letter includes five proposals for immigration reforms.
One key proposal is to provide legal protections for millions of immigrants.
The letter emphasizes the need for cooperation between Democrats and Republicans.
They mention recent events like a tragedy in Minneapolis and a possible federal government shutdown.
This story is ongoing and may have more updates in the future.
A new winter storm is predicted to hit the East Coast of the United States starting Friday. It will bring a mix of snow, rain, and strong winds from the Gulf Coast to the Northeast. This storm could disrupt travel across major areas.
Key Facts
A new winter storm is set to affect the East Coast from Friday.
Snow, rain, and strong winds are expected from the Gulf Coast to the Northeast.
Alerts have been issued for a large area of the eastern United States.
Heavy snow may hit regions like the southern Appalachians and mid-Atlantic.
At least 30 people have died in states due to preceding winter weather.
The storm could alter travel plans, with warnings and airline disruptions possible.
The storm is developing from the Gulf of Mexico and moving northeast.
A federal judge stopped the deportation of a 5-year-old boy from Ecuador and his father. They were detained in Minnesota, and the judge's order means they cannot be moved while their court case continues.
Key Facts
A judge issued a temporary order to stop the removal of a 5-year-old boy and his father.
The boy's name is Liam Conejo Ramos, and his father is Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias.
They are from Ecuador and were detained in Minnesota.
They were moved to a family detention center in Dilley, Texas.
The judge, Fred Biery, ruled the order while their legal case is pending.
The case highlights ongoing debates about immigration in the U.S. under President Trump.
An arctic blast and a bomb cyclone are expected to cause severe winter weather in the eastern United States this weekend. This weather event follows Winter Storm Fern, which caused significant disruptions and power outages. The bomb cyclone could bring strong winds and snow, while the arctic air could lead to extremely cold temperatures as far south as Florida.
Key Facts
The eastern United States could experience severe winter weather due to a bomb cyclone and arctic blast happening at the same time.
The bomb cyclone is expected to bring strong winds and snow, especially to areas like the Outer Banks and Cape Cod.
The forecast follows Winter Storm Fern, which recently affected many states and resulted in at least 30 deaths.
Power outages continue for hundreds of thousands of people due to the recent winter storm.
Arctic air could cause extremely low temperatures, leading to freeze warnings in the Southeast, including Florida.
Meteorologists warn of possible damage to crops in Central Florida due to harsh freezing conditions.
The exact path and snowfall amounts for the upcoming storm are still uncertain.
A teacher at Gary Elementary School in West Chicago was placed on administrative leave for a social media post supporting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The post caused complaints from local parents and community members, leading to further investigation by the school district.
Key Facts
A teacher from West Chicago was put on leave for making a pro-ICE comment on social media.
The teacher's comment was made on Facebook, saying "Go ICE," which upset local parents and community members.
Superintendent Kristina Davis informed families and staff about the situation and the teacher's leave status.
The teacher initially resigned but later withdrew the resignation before any board action.
Concerns were raised by parents and community members, with some saying students did not feel safe.
Around 100 people attended a listening session to voice their concerns about the incident.
The issue was discussed by local figures, including West Chicago Mayor Daniel Bovey and Illinois State Senator Karina Villa.
A Virginia judge ruled against a Democratic effort to redraw congressional districts using a proposed constitutional amendment. The judge found that the amendment didn't meet procedural requirements, stopping the redistricting process unless appealed. Democrats plan to challenge the decision.
Key Facts
A Virginia judge decided a Democratic redistricting plan was invalid.
The plan aimed to redraw congressional districts in Virginia.
The judge stated the amendment didn't follow required procedures.
Democrats introduced the amendment just before statewide elections.
The ruling stops the redistricting unless overturned by an appeal.
Democrats plan to appeal the judge's decision.
This decision is part of broader national redistricting efforts by both parties.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) held a meeting to discuss the causes of a collision between an American Airlines jet and an Army helicopter near Reagan National Airport last year. The crash, which resulted in 67 deaths, was linked to systemic issues like overwhelmed air traffic control and ignored warnings about helicopter routes. The NTSB aims to identify the main causes and suggest improvements to prevent future incidents.
Key Facts
An American Airlines plane and an Army Black Hawk helicopter collided near Reagan National Airport, killing 67 people.
The NTSB discussed ignored warnings and air traffic control issues that contributed to the crash.
The crash was the deadliest on U.S. soil since 2001 and included 28 victims from the figure skating community.
The Federal Aviation Administration changed regulations to separate helicopter and plane airspace at the airport.
NTSB investigators noted that repeated recommendations about helicopter routes went unheeded.
Air traffic controllers were overwhelmed by increased traffic shortly before the accident.
Victims' families attended the NTSB meeting, hoping for changes to prevent future crashes.
The U.S. Census Bureau reported that while the United States population grew by 1.8 million people from mid-2024 to mid-2025, five states—California, Hawaii, New Mexico, Vermont, and West Virginia—saw their populations decrease. The decrease in these states is connected to issues such as high living costs, economic challenges, and reduced international migration.
Key Facts
The U.S. population grew by 0.5% from July 2024 to July 2025.
California, Hawaii, New Mexico, Vermont, and West Virginia saw population declines during this period.
California's population decreased by about 9,000 people or 0.02%.
Hawaii's population fell by 0.14%.
New Mexico, Vermont, and West Virginia each lost between 1,000 to 2,000 residents.
The U.S. overall experienced the slowest population growth rate since the early COVID-19 pandemic.
A significant drop in net international migration contributed to the slowdown in population growth.
High cost of living and economic factors in each state are reasons for the population declines.
Several polls track how President Trump's approval rating has changed following the shooting death of Alex Pretti by federal officers in Minneapolis. While some polls indicate a slight drop in approval, others show no significant change. The incident has sparked discussions about immigration enforcement and the federal presence in Minnesota.
Key Facts
Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse, was shot by federal officers during protests in Minneapolis on January 24.
Reuters/Ipsos poll shows Trump's approval rating dropped from 41% to 38% after the shooting.
The Rasmussen Reports observed only a 1% decrease in Trump’s approval rating following the incident.
Napolitan News Service found 55% support for removing ICE agents from Minnesota after the shooting.
Despite the shooting, 52% of surveyed voters still support the Trump Administration's deportation efforts.
The White House has not commented on the situation.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz discussed reducing federal agents in the state with President Trump.
A federal judge in Minnesota ordered Todd Lyons, the acting director of ICE, to appear in court for a contempt hearing. The judge is concerned about repeated violations of court orders related to immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. Lyons must explain why he should not be held in contempt for these violations.
Key Facts
Todd Lyons, acting director of ICE, must attend a contempt hearing in court.
A Minnesota judge is taking this step due to repeated violations of court orders by ICE.
The Trump administration has changed its approach to immigration in Minnesota.
The Department of Homeland Security and ICE have not responded to requests for comment.
The judge previously ordered the administration to provide a bond hearing or release a detainee.
ICE did not comply with this court order, according to the judge.
The judge stated that ICE's actions have caused significant hardship to immigrants.
Ordering a federal agency head to court is described as an extraordinary measure by the judge.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio is testifying at a Senate hearing about U.S. policy concerning Venezuela. This comes shortly after the House of Representatives failed to pass a resolution to limit President Trump's military actions in Venezuela.
Key Facts
Marco Rubio is the Secretary of State and is testifying before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
The hearing focuses on the United States' policy toward Venezuela.
The House recently had a tied vote (215-215) on a resolution to prevent President Trump from sending military forces to Venezuela.
This resolution was supported by Democrats but did not pass.
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing challenges in maintaining a firm majority.
A similar resolution in the Senate was also tied until Vice President JD Vance voted to break the deadlock.
Several Democratic senators are calling for the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. This follows the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents in Minneapolis. Impeachment articles accuse Noem of obstruction of justice and abuse of power.
Key Facts
Democratic senators want to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem because federal agents fatally shot two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis.
Representative Robin Kelly introduced impeachment articles against Noem for obstruction of justice and abuse of power.
The impeachment effort requires support from Republicans to succeed in the GOP-controlled House and Senate.
At least 140 co-sponsors in the House support the impeachment articles.
Senators Ed Markey, Jacky Rosen, Peter Welch, and Elizabeth Warren publicly support the impeachment.
The accusations claim Noem directed ICE to make arrests without warrants and use excessive force.
Noem defends the actions of federal agents, but the demand for an investigation continues.
Officials are looking into a shooting in Arivaca, Arizona, which involved U.S. Border Patrol agents. One person is in critical condition and has been sent to the hospital. Authorities are working with various federal agencies as they continue their investigation.
Key Facts
The shooting occurred in Arivaca, Arizona, involving U.S. Border Patrol agents.
One person is in critical condition and has been taken to the hospital.
It is not known if any Border Patrol agents were injured.
The Pima County Sheriff's Department is working with the FBI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
The incident location, Arivaca, is about 60 miles from Tucson and near the Mexican border.
Local news reported federal agents have been in Tucson for weeks, making arrests and breaking windows.
Tucson Police stated they cannot interfere with federal operations.
Authorities continue to investigate, with pending updates.
