Senate Republicans are expressing concerns about Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s approach to health policy, especially his views on vaccines, after confirming him as health secretary. The confirmation of President Trump's pick for surgeon general, Casey Means, faces resistance, and there is currently no director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Kennedy's actions, such as changing the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), have stirred controversy.
Key Facts
Senate Republicans are uneasy with Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s health policies, especially regarding vaccines.
Casey Means, nominated as surgeon general by President Trump, has not been confirmed due to bipartisan resistance.
The CDC has been without a confirmed director for over 210 days.
Kennedy replaced all 17 members of the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
Some new ACIP members have skeptical views on vaccines.
CDC website statements about vaccines and autism have been revised under Kennedy.
Senator Bill Cassidy, a physician, expressed concerns about Kennedy's actions and the lack of a CDC director.
The Administration maintains Kennedy is aligning with President Trump's health goals.
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The House Ethics Committee found Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick guilty of 25 ethics violations. She is accused of misusing $5 million in FEMA funds related to a COVID-19 contract and funneling money to her campaign. The decision could lead to her expulsion from Congress.
Key Facts
The House Ethics Committee announced findings against Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.
She is accused of 25 out of 27 ethics violations.
She reportedly misused $5 million in federal FEMA funds.
The funds were linked to a COVID-19 vaccination contract for her family business.
Allegedly, the money was laundered through multiple accounts.
A significant portion of the laundered money went to her campaign.
Congress may vote on whether to expel her from office.
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The House Ethics Committee found that Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick from Florida violated House rules 25 times. The violations relate to the misuse of $5 million in disaster relief funds, allegedly using them to fund her 2022 campaign. Cherfilus-McCormick denies wrongdoing, but she also faces federal charges linked to these funds.
Key Facts
The House Ethics Committee determined that Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick committed 25 ethics violations.
The committee's allegations are connected to her family's health care business receiving $5 million in overpaid disaster relief funds.
Cherfilus-McCormick reportedly used this money to support her 2022 congressional campaign.
She faces federal charges for allegedly misusing the $5 million and buying items like a diamond ring.
Cherfilus-McCormick, her brother, her former chief of staff, and her accountant are all charged.
She pled not guilty to the federal charges and did not testify at the ethics hearing.
Her lawyer argued that the ethics hearing process was unfair and lacked a full trial with evidence and witnesses.
The ethics panel comprises four Democratic and four Republican members.
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President Donald Trump's supporters expressed frustration after the Senate passed a funding deal for the Department of Homeland Security that excluded additional money for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The funding package covers other parts of the department, like the Transportation Security Administration, and now awaits approval from the House of Representatives.
Key Facts
The Senate passed a funding package for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The package did not include extra funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The deal includes funding for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Some supporters of President Trump and lawmakers criticized the deal.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune faced criticism for his role in the compromise.
The agreement ended a weeks-long stalemate between Democrats and Republicans.
Democrats opposed the ICE funding increase due to disagreements over its enforcement practices.
The House of Representatives will next consider the deal.
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The Trump administration has eased restrictions on some financial and potash companies linked to Belarus. President Trump plans to announce policies to help U.S. farmers cope with fertilizer shortages caused by the war with Iran, which has disrupted exports from the Persian Gulf.
Key Facts
The U.S. has relaxed rules for Belarus-linked financial and potash companies.
President Trump is expected to speak about supporting U.S. farmers.
The ongoing war with Iran has stopped nitrogen fertilizer exports from the Persian Gulf.
Fertilizer costs have increased dramatically, affecting U.S. farmers' ability to purchase it.
President Trump aims to introduce policies to help American farmers affected by these shortages.
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A House Ethics Committee found Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick guilty of financial misconduct after a hearing. The committee will meet later to decide on possible punishments, which could include fines or expelling her from the House. Cherfilus-McCormick denies the charges, which involve improper handling of campaign money and financial disclosures.
Key Facts
The House Ethics Committee found Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick guilty of 25 out of 27 charges.
Charges include campaign finance violations, false financial disclosures, and misuse of funds.
The issue involves a $5 million overpayment to her family's health care company.
A decision on punishment will be made by the committee in mid-April.
Her attorney argued that she wasn't involved in the financial tasks of her campaign.
The committee's finding follows a two-year investigation.
Cherfilus-McCormick maintains her innocence and has pleaded not guilty to related criminal charges.
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A new report from the Department of Education suggests limiting screen time for children under five to one hour per day, and avoiding screens for children under two unless engaging interactively. This advice is based on concerns that too much screen time can negatively affect children's development and health. Parents are encouraged to manage their own screen habits, engage with their children during screen time, and use alternative activities.
Key Facts
The Department of Education recommends no more than one hour of screen time per day for children under five.
Children under two should ideally avoid screens except for shared, interactive use.
Excessive screen time is linked to negative impacts on social, emotional, language, and brain development, as well as sleep, eyesight, and weight.
About 98% of children are using screens daily by age two.
Parents are advised to lead by example by managing their own screen habits.
Suggested alternatives to screen use include interactive activities like reading or talking during mealtime and bedtime.
Special guidelines apply for children using assistive technologies for special educational needs.
Key early development, including brain growth and language skills, occurs before age five.
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The U.S. Department of State advises passport applicants to expect processing times of four to six weeks for regular service and two to three weeks for expedited service, excluding mailing time. Travelers are encouraged to apply early and check their application status online to avoid delays. Guidance coincides with a legislative proposal to require proof of citizenship for voter registration.
Key Facts
Routine passport processing takes about four to six weeks; expedited service takes two to three weeks.
Mailing times can increase the total wait time for passport applications and deliveries.
In-person passport appointments may be available for urgent travel within 14 days, or 28 days if a foreign visa is needed.
Processing times vary based on demand and application volume.
The SAVE Act proposes that proof of U.S. citizenship, like a passport, be required to register to vote in federal elections.
First-time passport applicants must apply in person and provide proof of citizenship, identification, a photo, and fees.
Passport applications can be found online and at facilities like post offices and libraries.
Passport pictures need to be recent, clear, and follow specific size and background guidelines.
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The U.S. State Department will increase its screening for many nonimmigrant visa applicants by expanding social media reviews. This change is part of efforts to enhance national security and more closely monitor who enters the United States. The new rules will take effect on March 30.
Key Facts
The State Department will broaden social media checks from March 30 for a variety of visa types, not just H-1B visas.
Visa categories affected include A-3, G-5, H-3, certain H-4 dependents, fiancé and spouse visas, religious worker visas, and several humanitarian and witness-related visas.
Applicants will need to set their social media profiles to public for easier review by consular officers.
The goal is to identify any security concerns and ensure applicants do not intend to harm the U.S.
The State Department views each visa decision as a national security issue.
Similar social media reviews have led to delays in visa processing, with longer waits for interviews or approvals.
Visa applicants are reminded that obtaining a visa is a privilege, not a guaranteed right.
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The Senate approved funding to support the majority of Homeland Security operations, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), but not for immigration enforcement. This decision aims to reduce disruptions caused by the government shutdown. The House of Representatives will review this deal next.
Key Facts
The Senate voted to provide funds to Homeland Security for most of its divisions.
The funding will help TSA agents get paid during the government shutdown.
Immigration enforcement, including ICE, remains unfunded in this deal.
The decision aims to ease travel issues and financial problems caused by the shutdown.
The vote in the Senate was unanimous, meaning everyone agreed.
The House will consider this funding plan soon to decide if it will pass.
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A man named Finley Oliver from Virginia adopted a dog at a Maryland shelter just before she was scheduled to be euthanized. The dog reminded him of his recently deceased pet, leading Oliver to feel an immediate bond. He shared his story online, inspiring others to consider adopting rescue animals.
Key Facts
Finley Oliver lost his long-time pet dog, Sammie, in January due to cancer.
A social media post in March alerted Oliver to a dog named Mary, who was at risk of euthanasia in Maryland.
Oliver felt a strong connection to Mary, who looked similar to Sammie.
Oliver adopted Mary, now named Moo, saving her from euthanasia.
Moo quickly adjusted to Oliver's home, providing comfort similar to Sammie.
Oliver shared the adoption story on TikTok, where it received over 273,000 views and 53,000 likes.
Social media users praised Oliver for adopting Moo.
The Prince George animal shelter, where Moo was saved from, is facing overcapacity issues, leading to animal euthanasia.
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Joe Rogan, a popular podcast host, called some supporters of the MAGA movement "unintelligent," leading to backlash from conservatives. Rogan discussed this on his show with comedian Dave Smith, explaining that the movement, associated with the phrase "Make America Great Again," is divided among conservatives and includes members he finds "weird" or "dorks." Despite endorsing President Donald Trump in the 2024 election, Rogan has previously criticized some of Trump's policies.
Key Facts
Joe Rogan criticized some members of the MAGA movement as "unintelligent."
Rogan made these comments on his podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," with comedian Dave Smith.
Rogan endorsed President Donald Trump in the 2024 election.
He has criticized Trump in the past, including over the conflict in Iran.
Rogan described the MAGA movement as split between conservatives and MAGA conservatives.
The phrase "Make America Great Again" is associated with this movement.
Some conservatives reacted negatively to Rogan's comments, calling them unfair.
The discussion on Rogan's podcast gained significant attention online.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom spoke with former President Barack Obama before launching a redistricting effort called Proposition 50. Obama encouraged Newsom to move forward with the plan, which aims to counter Republican redistricting actions. The measure passed with strong voter support in California.
Key Facts
Governor Gavin Newsom called Barack Obama before starting Proposition 50 to get advice.
Obama supported Newsom's plan, which encouraged him to proceed with the campaign.
Proposition 50, also called the Election Rigging Response Act, was approved by California voters with nearly 65% support.
The measure allows California lawmakers to redraw congressional maps in response to actions by Texas Republicans.
Five districts held by Republicans were shifted to favor Democrats as a result of Prop 50.
Supporters see this action as a temporary fix for the elections in 2026, 2028, and 2030.
The independent redistricting commission will take over mapdrawing after the 2030 Census.
Critics say the measure could undo previous reforms and make redistricting more political.
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Nine people in Massachusetts face charges for allegedly using stolen identities to illegally collect over $1 million from government aid programs like SNAP. Authorities found about $943,197 in fraudulent claims linked to various public assistance services. The group of defendants could face long prison sentences if convicted.
Key Facts
A group in Massachusetts is charged with stealing identities to collect over $1 million from public aid programs.
Programs affected include SNAP, MassHealth (Medicaid in Massachusetts), and Social Security.
Stolen identities were reportedly used to get official documents and apply for benefits.
One person allegedly used a stolen identity for more than 20 years.
The total estimated fraud is about $943,197, with $149,775 related to SNAP.
Defendants could face severe penalties, including long prison sentences and heavy fines.
Prosecutors link this case to a wider investigation, uncovering $9 million in fraud since 2025.
Other recent SNAP fraud cases include store owners and a California worker charged with similar crimes.
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Savannah Guthrie, a U.S. TV presenter, will return to the "Today" show on April 6, two months after her mother, Nancy Guthrie, went missing. Authorities believe Nancy Guthrie was taken against her will, and a nationwide search is ongoing, but no suspects have been arrested yet.
Key Facts
Savannah Guthrie is set to go back to the "Today" show on April 6.
Her mother, Nancy Guthrie, disappeared on February 1 near Tucson, Arizona.
Investigators think Nancy Guthrie was taken against her will but have not found a suspect.
Savannah Guthrie spoke about returning to the show as part of her purpose.
A nationwide search for Nancy Guthrie has found some clues, like gloves and DNA evidence.
No major progress has been made in finding Nancy Guthrie.
Savannah Guthrie and her siblings are offering a $1 million reward for information about their mother.
The FBI has added a $100,000 reward for leads in the case.
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Jase Duggar spoke out after his brother Joseph Duggar was arrested on charges related to alleged crimes against a minor and is set to be extradited to Florida. Jase and his wife expressed their shock and anger about the situation and emphasized their hope for justice for the alleged victim. The family became widely known through a reality TV show.
Key Facts
Joseph Duggar was arrested and will be extradited to Florida for alleged crimes against a minor.
Jase Duggar shared a public statement reacting to his brother's arrest, expressing shock and support for the alleged victim.
Jase Duggar urged prayers for the affected child and family in his statement on Instagram.
The arrest follows reports from Arkansas law enforcement about past alleged abuse.
The alleged incident happened during a family vacation to Panama City Beach, Florida, when the child was 9.
Joseph Duggar is awaiting extradition and will have a court appearance in Bay County, Florida.
The Duggar family gained fame through the reality TV show "19 Kids and Counting."
Joseph Duggar's arrest has brought renewed attention to the family, especially after earlier legal issues involving another sibling.
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Travellers in the US are experiencing long waits at airports because many TSA agents have quit or are not working due to a partial government shutdown. BBC journalist Christal Hayes faced over four-hour waits at Houston Airport. President Donald Trump has promised an executive order to ensure TSA agents get paid soon, and a partial funding bill passed the US Senate but still needs approval from the House.
Key Facts
Many TSA agents have either quit or missed work during a government shutdown, causing long airport lines.
BBC journalist Christal Hayes reported waiting for more than four hours at Houston Airport.
US President Donald Trump aims to sign an executive order to provide immediate payment to TSA agents.
The legal authority for the executive order is uncertain.
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was present at airports for crowd control.
The US Senate passed a bill to fund the TSA, but it requires approval from the House of Representatives.
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A Reddit debate sparked discussions on whether morning or night showers are better for hygiene. Experts explained that both timings have benefits depending on individual preferences and lifestyle. Dermatologists noted the importance of gentle shower routines over the specific timing.
Key Facts
A Reddit post questioned the logic of morning showers, sparking an online debate.
The discussion went viral, gathering over 15,000 upvotes.
A 2024 Harris Poll showed most Americans shower in the morning.
Dermatologist Dr. Anatalia Moore explained that both evening and morning showers have benefits.
Morning showers can help wake people up, while night showers clean off daily grime.
Dr. Moore stressed the importance of a gentle shower routine, regardless of timing.
Dr. Shamsa Kanwal emphasized using warm water and avoiding overwashing to protect skin.
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A federal judge has extended an order to protect people detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minnesota. The ruling limits ICE from transferring detainees out of the state and ensures they have access to attorneys.
Key Facts
A judge issued an order to stop ICE from moving detainees out of Minnesota.
The order ensures that detainees can meet with an attorney within one hour of detention.
Detainees often had trouble communicating with lawyers due to frequent transfers.
The order sets rules for timely attorney-client communication, including phone and in-person visits.
The court found ICE's actions likely violated detainees' Fifth Amendment rights.
Detainees were sometimes asked to sign agreements without legal advice.
The ruling means these protections stay in place as the legal case continues.
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The White House shared mysterious posts on social media, leading to various theories about what the posts might mean. The content included blurred images and cryptic videos, sparking speculation about possible announcements regarding extraterrestrial life, a new website for free expression, or a new phone by President Trump.
Key Facts
The White House posted blurred images and videos on its social media account.
One video shows a sketch of the White House with the name "President Donald J Trump" and a backward voice message.
There is speculation about extraterrestrial life due to a government domain, Aliens.gov, linked to President Trump's past mention of releasing related files.
Another theory is the launch of a new website, freedom.gov, aimed at promoting free expression.
A third theory suggests the announcement may relate to Trump's new phone service and the T1 phone.
The White House has not officially explained the purpose of the posts.
The posts included a reaction from a White House communications director with playful emojis.
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