Flu cases spiking this holiday season, CDC data shows
According to CBS, new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows flu cases continuing to spike around the country, with some areas seeing record cases of the illness.
State News
9 states are cutting individual income taxes in 2026. See if yours is one of them.
Sources from CBS say nine U.S. states are lowering income taxes on Jan. 1, according to a recent Tax Foundation analysis
Transcript of Charlie Kirk murder suspect's closed hearing from October released by Utah court
According to CBS, a Utah judge on Monday ordered the release of a transcript from a closed-door hearing in October over whether the man charged with killing Charlie Kirk must be shackled during court proceedings.
Unleash the hounds! And terriers and lapdogs. The American Kennel Club adds 3 breeds
Associated Press reports that three more dog breeds joined the American Kennel Club’s roster of recognized breeds on Tuesday, making them eligible for many U.S. dog shows and likely increasing their visibility to the pet-loving public.
SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods take effect in five states Jan. 1
According to Associated Press, starting on Thursday, Americans in five states who get government help paying for groceries will see new restrictions on soda, candy, and other foods they can buy with those benefits.
U.S. sanctions 10 people and firms from Iran and Venezuela over drone and missile trade
Associated Press reports that the U.S. imposed sanctions on 10 people and firms from Iran and Venezuela over allegedly contributing to Iran’s drone trade and ballistic program
Meta buys startup Manus in latest move to advance its artificial intelligence efforts
Sources from Associated Press say Meta is buying artificial intelligence startup Manus, as the owner of Facebook and Instagram continues an aggressive push to amp up AI offerings across its platforms.
Surge in federal officers in Minnesota focuses on alleged fraud at day care centers
According to Associated Press, a surge of federal officers in Minnesota follows new allegations of fraud by day care centers run by Somali residents.
Candidates set for 2026 Congressional Primary Elections in MS
The slates are set for next year's Congressional primaries in Mississippi. And a number of the midterms look to be competitive.
Winter storm could become "bomb cyclone" over Great Lakes and Northeast. Maps show latest forecast.
CBS News reports a powerful storm system currently producing heavy snow, rain, and strong winds across parts of the northern United States could become a "bomb cyclone" over the Great Lakes and Northeast regions, forecasters said.
OpenAI says it's hiring a head safety executive to mitigate AI risks
Sources from CBS say OpenAI is seeking a new "head of preparedness" to guide the company's safety strategy amid mounting concerns over how artificial intelligence tools could be misused.
Homeland Security to investigate over 30 sites in Minneapolis on Monday for what it calls "rampant fraud"
According to CBS, Homeland Security agents are in Minneapolis on Monday "conducting a massive investigation on childcare and other rampant fraud," DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said.
Judge orders release of transcript from closed hearing for man accused of killing Charlie Kirk
Associated Press reports that a Utah judge on Monday ordered the release of a transcript from a closed-door hearing in October over whether the man charged with killing Charlie Kirk must be shackled during court proceedings.
Wyoming nonprofit receives $3.4M of Nebraska’s opioid settlement funds to build Nebraska clinic
Sources from Associated Press say, when Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services announced its plan to divvy up millions in opioid settlement money, one recipient stood out: The Central Wyoming Counseling Center.
Florida congresswoman accused of stealing COVID funds maintains innocence
Associated Press reports that U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick reiterated her innocence Monday outside a Miami federal courthouse, where she faces charges of conspiring to steal $5 million in federal COVID-19 disaster funds.
Officials suspect bird flu after 12 swans die at Orlando’s Lake Eola
According to Associated Press, a dozen of the iconic swans that live in the heart of downtown Orlando, Florida, have died in recent days of an unknown cause, leading officials to suspect that bird flu is to blame.
Trying to improve your health and wellness in 2026? Keep it simple
Associated Press reports that the new year is a time when many try to start new good habits and commit to improving health and wellness.
Tyler Perry’s accuser sent messages of gratitude and friendship years after alleged assault
Sources from AP say text messages show that Tyler Perry and “Boo! A Madea Halloween” actor Mario Rodriguez, who recently filed a lawsuit accusing the filmmaker of sexual assault, remained in contact years after Rodriguez alleges their interactions ended.
A look at how Trump-era work requirements could impact people who receive public benefits
According to AP, the Trump administration made work requirements for low-income people receiving government assistance a priority in 2025.
How to build an emergency fund, pay off debt and make a plan for your money in 2026
Sources from Associated Press say to find inspiration for achieving your financial resolutions and money goals in 2026.
Trump administration moves to overhaul how H-1B visas are granted, ending lottery system
According to Associated Press, the Department of Homeland Security said Tuesday it was replacing its longstanding lottery system for H-1B work visas with a new approach that prioritizes skilled, higher-paid foreign workers.
Lineman remains hospitalized after being electrocuted in Benton Co.
A Mississippi Utility Department Lineman remains hospitalized after being electrocuted.
Officer injured during an officer-involved shooting in Greenwood
A Greenwood police officer was injured during an officer-involved shooting.
California drivers warned to reconsider Christmas travel plans ahead of storms
According to Associated Press, California officials and weather forecasters urged holiday travelers to avoid the roads on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day ahead of a series of powerful winter storms that threatened to slam California with relentless rains, heavy winds, and mountain snow through Friday.
Even store Santas are struggling to find a job these days
According to CBS, as if donning an itchy red suit and entertaining kids all day weren't a tough enough gig, the nation's professional Santa Clauses face another cheer-sapping challenge this holiday season: getting a job.