A study by Holafly ranks the most romantic cities in North America based on romantic experiences and attractions. New York City and Honolulu top the list among U.S. cities, noted for their unique experiences and strong connectivity. The study measures cities using a Romantic Experience Index which considers reviews and attractions suitable for couples.
Key Facts
The study is by Holafly, a global eSIM provider.
New York City is ranked as the most romantic city in North America.
Honolulu ranks second in the U.S. list, praised for its tropical setting and luxury amenities.
Other top U.S. cities include New Orleans, San Francisco, Charleston, Niagara Falls, and Las Vegas.
The ranking uses a "Romantic Experience Index" with data from Google Maps and TripAdvisor.
Seven of the top ten romantic cities in North America are in the U.S.
A U.S. judge has restricted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from using certain tactics, like arresting or pepper-spraying peaceful protesters in Minneapolis. This decision comes as protests are planned in response to a recent fatal ICE shooting. Law enforcement and the National Guard are on alert as both protests and counter-marches are expected in the city.
Key Facts
A U.S. federal judge ruled that ICE agents cannot arrest or use pepper spray on peaceful protesters in Minneapolis.
The decision follows the fatal shooting of an individual by an ICE agent, leading to planned protests.
The ruling also stops agents from stopping vehicles without reasonable suspicion.
The Department of Homeland Security stated it aims to protect officers from rioters.
Minnesota's National Guard is on alert, with law enforcement ready for upcoming protests and counter-marches.
The justice department is investigating Minnesota's governor and Minneapolis' mayor over alleged interference with federal immigration actions.
The White House criticized the judge's decision, calling it biased.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has asked a judge to reject a request from two lawmakers who want a neutral expert to manage the release of Jeffrey Epstein files. The DOJ says the court does not have the power to approve this request. The DOJ is working on releasing the documents but faces delays.
Key Facts
Two lawmakers, Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie, asked for a special overseer for Epstein file releases.
The DOJ claims the court doesn't have the authority to fulfill this request.
The Epstein Files Transparency Act required files to be released by December 19, but this deadline was missed.
Delays are partly due to the need to redact sensitive information from the files.
The DOJ says it is making progress, with over 500 people working on reviewing and redacting documents.
There are millions of documents related to the Epstein investigation.
Khanna and Massie claim the DOJ is not complying with the law, as many documents remain unpublished.
Abigail Spanberger was sworn in as Virginia's first female governor. Two other Democrats also made history with her: Ghazala F. Hashmi as the first Muslim woman lieutenant governor in the U.S. and Jay Jones as Virginia's first Black attorney general. These changes mark a significant shift in Virginia's political scene, as democrats now control the state while President Trump remains in the White House.
Key Facts
Abigail Spanberger became Virginia's first woman governor, making it the 75th governorship in the state's history.
The inauguration took place outside the state Capitol in rainy weather.
Spanberger defeated Republican Winsome Earle-Sears in the election.
Ghazala F. Hashmi was inaugurated as the first Muslim woman lieutenant governor in the U.S.
Jay Jones became Virginia's first Black attorney general.
The Democrats' success in Virginia reflects a shift in political power in the state.
Spanberger's campaign focused on economic protection and healthcare stability.
Her inauguration took place in Richmond, which holds historical significance as the former capital of the Confederacy.
Over 10% of U.S. House members have announced they will not run for reelection, which is a record at this point in the election cycle. Reasons for leaving include pursuing other opportunities or retiring, while some are affected by shifts in district boundaries due to redistricting.
Key Facts
More than 10% of current U.S. House members plan to leave, which is the highest percentage at this point since Obama's administration.
47 House members, including 21 Democrats and 26 Republicans, have announced their retirement.
The number of early retirement announcements is higher now compared to past years.
Three main reasons for these announcements are pursuing different offices, aging of Congress members, and redistricting.
Open Senate seats and governors' races attract some members to seek other positions.
The median age of Congress is increasing; older lawmakers are opting for retirement.
Six states have new congressional maps, affecting district boundaries and some members' decisions.
A woman in Omaha, Nebraska, named Jamie Bonkiewicz shared a video showing her interaction with a U.S. Secret Service agent and a local police officer. They visited her because of a post she made online about White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. The Secret Service confirmed it was a routine protective intelligence interview, and the visit concluded without any legal action being taken.
Key Facts
Jamie Bonkiewicz shared a video of a visit from a U.S. Secret Service agent and a local police officer.
The visit was related to an online post she made about White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Bonkiewicz had posted that she hoped Leavitt’s future would be televised, prompting the visit.
The U.S. Secret Service confirmed the visit was a protective intelligence interview.
The agent explained the agency's role in assessing potential direct threats.
Bonkiewicz mentioned her online political activities and concerns about her own safety.
The interview concluded without any legal consequences for Bonkiewicz.
Bonkiewicz has been active online, sharing content related to protests against the Trump administration.
A winter storm is expected to hit parts of the Southeast U.S. with rain and snow, causing possible travel disruptions. The storm is forecasted to affect states including Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and the Carolinas over the weekend.
Key Facts
A winter storm could bring rain and snow to parts of the Southeast U.S. this weekend.
Snow may start Saturday night in southern Alabama and Georgia, with some reaching the Florida Panhandle.
States including Florida, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia might see up to an inch of snow on unpaved areas.
The storm is expected to move northeast through the Carolinas and into southeastern Virginia.
Even light snow can cause travel slowdowns, as the Southeast has fewer winter-weather resources.
Travel on roads and at airports could face disruptions due to snow and icy conditions.
Winter storm warnings are already in place for three states, with predictions of heavy snow and poor visibility.
A new study published in a medical journal found no significant link between the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy and an increase in autism. This challenges President Donald Trump’s warnings about using Tylenol while pregnant. The research analyzed 43 studies and found no evidence supporting a connection between acetaminophen use and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities in children.
Key Facts
A study in The Lancet examined 43 studies about acetaminophen use in pregnancy.
The study found no significant link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities in children.
Acetaminophen is also known as paracetamol outside the United States.
President Trump has warned against using acetaminophen during pregnancy due to autism concerns.
The study supports guidelines recommending acetaminophen as safe for use when pregnant, if used as directed.
Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol, disagrees with claims that acetaminophen causes autism.
Some experts note that genetics might be more significant risk factors for autism.
In September, the FDA announced label changes for acetaminophen to reflect concerns about potential risks during pregnancy.
A Congressional proposal was introduced to abolish U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The proposal wants to stop federal funding for ICE and dissolve the agency. This comes after concerns over ICE's aggressive tactics and recent incidents involving civilians.
Key Facts
Congressman Shri Thanedar from Michigan proposed the "Abolish ICE Act."
The bill aims to stop funding ICE and dismantle the agency within 90 days if enacted.
The proposal was introduced amidst protests over U.S. immigration policies under President Trump.
The initiative gained momentum after an ICE agent fatally shot Renee Nicole Good in Minnesota.
Support for abolishing ICE has grown, with 46% of Americans in favor according to a recent poll.
ICE was established in 2003 to handle immigration duties after government reorganization post-9/11.
Critics argue ICE's enforcement has expanded under the Trump administration, causing fear in communities.
A U.S. budget watchdog criticized the Trump administration for delaying student loan collections from borrowers who have defaulted on their loans. The Department of Education announced a pause in wage garnishments to allow time for new repayment reforms. Critics believe this pause might cost the government billions annually and is seen as a continuation of earlier student debt relief efforts.
Key Facts
President Trump's administration delayed plans to collect overdue student loans through wage garnishments.
The pause aims to give the Department of Education time to introduce new repayment options for borrowers.
The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB) criticized the pause, saying it resembles previous deficit-increasing actions.
Americans owe approximately $1.7 trillion in student loan debt.
The latest pause halts both wage garnishments and tax refund seizures.
Critics like the CRFB argue that halting collections could result in a loss of up to $5 billion per year for the government.
The Department of Education believes this is a step towards a fairer and more efficient student loan system.
Native American tribes are expressing concern over U.S. immigration authorities' actions, following reports of members being questioned and detained by ICE. Tribal leaders are urging their members to carry identification to avoid being mistakenly detained. The situation has led to increased scrutiny of ICE's practices and recent incidents involving its agents.
Key Facts
Native Americans are raising concerns over ICE operations impacting their communities.
Tribal leaders report that members have been questioned and detained inappropriately.
ICE is accused of using intimidation and racial profiling in these operations.
The Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians criticized ICE's actions as causing fear and anxiety.
President Trump’s broader immigration policies are facing increased scrutiny.
The Oglala Sioux Tribe President initially claimed detentions but later sought to verify these reports.
Native American communities have been advised to carry identification and document encounters with authorities.
A federal judge in Minnesota has limited the actions of U.S. immigration agents during protests in the state. The judge's order came after tensions rose following an immigration agent's fatal shooting of a local resident. The ruling prevents agents from taking action against peaceful protesters without clear suspicion of a crime.
Key Facts
A Minnesota judge has restricted how U.S. immigration agents can act during protests.
The ruling came after an ICE agent fatally shot a protester named Renee Nicole Good.
The court order bans agents from using force such as pepper spray and tear gas on peaceful protesters.
Agents are not allowed to arrest peaceful protesters unless they are suspected of a crime.
The Department of Homeland Security has 72 hours to comply with the new rules.
This legal decision is seen as a win for activists opposing the immigration agents' presence in Minneapolis.
Nearly 3,000 immigration agents have been deployed to Minnesota, which is more than the local police force.
President Trump mentioned the possible use of the Insurrection Act to use military forces to manage the situation.
The article discusses two recent shootings by federal agents in Minneapolis, one resulting in a death and the other causing injury. There are calls for transparency in the investigations to ensure public trust, but concerns arise as federal agencies manage evidence and control the investigation narrative. Questions center around the justification for using deadly force and the need for clear communication with the public.
Key Facts
Two shootings in Minneapolis by federal agents have sparked national attention.
One shooting resulted in the death of Renee Nicole Good; another injured a man.
Federal officials claimed self-defense in both incidents.
Local leaders seek involvement in the investigations but report being excluded by federal agencies.
There is a call for transparency and cooperation between federal and state agencies.
Questions focus on whether deadly force was necessary and if it could have been avoided.
Public trust in law enforcement investigations is deemed critical, with concerns about political influences affecting outcomes.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are reportedly under investigation by the U.S. Justice Department for allegedly obstructing federal law enforcement through public statements. This investigation comes amidst reports of violent immigration raids and a recent fatal shooting by a federal officer in Minneapolis. Mayor Frey and Governor Walz have both stated their commitment to protecting their communities.
Key Facts
Mayor Jacob Frey says he won't be intimidated by a reported investigation by the Trump administration.
The U.S. Justice Department is reportedly investigating Frey and Governor Tim Walz for impeding federal law enforcement.
This probe relates to their public comments against immigration raids in Minneapolis.
The investigation was first reported by CBS News, but the Justice Department has not confirmed it publicly.
Federal officials claim that an ICE officer shot a Minneapolis resident last week in self-defense.
The shooting involved four gunshots, and the victim was pronounced dead shortly after.
Top Trump officials claim ICE officers have "absolute immunity" for their actions.
Governor Walz criticized the use of the justice system to target political opponents.
New York City police are looking for suspects after a group of masked individuals stole Pokémon items from a store in Manhattan. The robbery happened on January 14, and the suspects took about $100,000 worth of merchandise without injuring anyone. Police are still investigating the incident, and no arrests have been made yet.
Key Facts
The robbery occurred at the Poké Court store in Manhattan, New York City.
Three masked individuals entered the store and stole Pokémon merchandise.
They smashed glass displays and seemed to have a weapon.
The value of the stolen items is about $100,000.
No one was hurt during the incident.
Police have not yet made any arrests.
The robbery took place on Wednesday, January 14.
New York City police are actively searching for the suspects.
A meeting between Tucker Carlson and President Donald Trump at the White House caused backlash among some conservatives. The visit sparked criticism from certain MAGA supporters who believe it might affect Vice President J.D. Vance's chances for a 2028 presidential run. There is also division within the conservative movement over U.S. foreign policy, which might impact the upcoming elections.
Key Facts
Tucker Carlson met with President Donald Trump at the White House on Friday.
Laura Loomer, a known MAGA influencer, criticized the meeting, suggesting it could harm Vice President J.D. Vance's potential 2028 presidential run.
The meeting happened amid divisions in the MAGA movement over U.S. foreign policy in Israel and the Middle East.
Images posted online showed Carlson speaking with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles.
The Anti-Defamation League criticized the meeting, pointing to Carlson's past controversial statements.
Tucker Carlson has faced criticism from other conservatives like Mark Levin and Ben Shapiro for his views.
The MAGA movement is experiencing internal conflicts that could weaken its influence in upcoming elections.
A couple named Carly and Leon found a way to strengthen their marriage by setting aside four hours every Friday just for themselves. This dedicated time helped them reconnect without any pressure or distractions. They found that simple togetherness improved their relationship.
Key Facts
Carly and Leon have been married for 15 years and faced challenges like miscarriages and financial issues.
Carly noticed their marriage was at risk when she found herself saying she didn’t think it would survive having another child.
They now reserve four hours every Friday afternoon just for them, without children or phones.
Their time together is focused on being side-by-side without specific expectations.
The couple initially didn't talk much during these times but allowed natural interactions to occur.
Consistently dedicating this time has helped them feel closer and brought back laughter.
The couple avoided traditional date nights, which felt forced, and instead opted for low-pressure activities.
They noticed it was easy to skip these sessions but committing to them has had significant positive effects.
President Donald Trump's approval rating stands at 39% according to a CNN poll, with a significant decline noted among independent voters. The poll indicates widespread dissatisfaction with his presidency and issues like the economy, which many people see as worsening. This trend poses potential challenges for the Republican Party in upcoming midterm elections.
Key Facts
President Trump has an approval rating of 39% in a recent CNN poll.
The poll included 1,209 adults and had a margin of error of ±3.1%.
58% of respondents described Trump's first year back in the White House as a failure.
Trump's approval among independents is at 29%.
55% of Americans think Trump's policies are making economic conditions worse.
Almost 9 in 10 Republicans support Trump, while only 30% of Latinos, adults under 35, and 26% of people of color approve.
58% of respondents believe Trump is using presidential power excessively.
Other surveys confirm a low approval trend, with one showing a net approval rating of –18.
The article provides guidance from a child psychologist on how parents can discuss Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) with their children. It emphasizes the importance of open communication, using age-appropriate language, and validating children's feelings about what they see in the media related to ICE activities.
Key Facts
Ice (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is widely discussed in the US and children may see related media content.
A clinical psychologist, Dr. Anna Batho, states it’s better to talk about difficult topics with children rather than avoid them.
Parents should choose a calm moment to discuss ICE and begin by listening to what their child already knows or thinks.
Dr. Batho advises against forcing the conversation if the child isn’t interested or concerned.
When explaining, parents should use clear, age-appropriate language and avoid confusing terms.
It's important for parents to check in with children after discussions to validate their feelings.
Keeping communication open is crucial, so children feel they can talk about their concerns anytime.
Parents can help children return to a sense of normalcy by engaging them in familiar activities or comforting actions.
President Donald Trump’s approval ratings have reached their lowest during his second term, according to recent national polls. These polls show a decline in public confidence, which could affect the upcoming 2026 midterm elections and his policy agenda.
Key Facts
President Trump's approval rating has dropped to its lowest during his second term.
A Marist Poll shows 38% approval and 56% disapproval, giving a net rating of -18.
An Economist/YouGov poll records 40% approval and 54% disapproval, netting -14.
The AP-NORC poll reports 40% approval and 59% disapproval, netting -19.
Polls indicate a significant decline among key groups, like working-class Americans.
These polls were conducted in early January 2026, with similar findings across different surveys.
All polls have a margin of error around ±3.3 to ±3.9 percentage points.
The polling data reflects challenges for Trump concerning major issues like the economy and immigration.
