- A federal judge ordered Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to release documents. The order also states DOGE must answer questions regarding plans to downsize federal agencies, terminate employees and cancel contracts.
- The request follows a lawsuit from 14 Democratic state attorneys general seeking to stop Musk’s actions.
- DOGE was previously ordered to release information to Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW).
Full Story
A federal judge ordered Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to hand over documents and answer questions about the group’s plans to downsize federal agencies.
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U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan said in her order Wednesday, March 12, that DOGE must release records related to its plans to reduce agencies, terminate federal employees and cancel federal contracts.
The request does not apply to President Donald Trump, who signed an executive order establishing DOGE the day he took office.
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In February, 14 Democratic state attorneys general filed a federal lawsuit against Trump, Musk and DOGE, asking the court to “restore constitutional order” and stop Musk “from issuing orders to any person in the executive branch outside of DOGE.”
Chutkan denied the request, saying she could not issue a temporary restraining order against Musk and DOGE without clear evidence of imminent irreparable harm to the states.
Other recent ruling: DOGE is not exempt from open records laws
On Monday, March 10, District Judge Christopher Cooper ordered Musk and DOGE to release some of its records. This ruling came after three Freedom of Information Act requests from a watchdog nonprofit, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, or CREW.
Cooper said in his ruling that DOGE is operating with “unusual secrecy.”
A spokesperson for the Department of Justice told Business Insider Musk and DOGE are “saving historic amounts of taxpayer money from being spent on unserious bureaucratic pet projects.”
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What happens next?
The judge gave the federal government until March 20 to give the court an estimate of the number of documents that would fall under CREW’s request.
Musk and DOGE have three weeks to comply with the most recent records request.
[Craig]
A FEDERAL JUDGE ORDERED ELON MUSK AND THE DEPARTMENT OF GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY TO HAND OVER DOCUMENTS AND ANSWER QUESTIONS ABOUT THE GROUP’S PLANS TO DOWNSIZE FEDERAL AGENCIES.
UNDER THE ORDER ANNOUNCED WEDNESDAY, DOGE MUST RELEASE RECORDS RELATED TO THEIR PLANS TO REDUCE AGENCIES, TERMINATE FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND CANCEL FEDERAL CONTRACTS.
THE REQUEST DOES NOT APPLY TO PRESIDENT TRUMP, WHO SIGNED AN EXECUTIVE ORDER ESTABLISHING DOGE THE DAY HE TOOK OFFICE.
LAST MONTH, 14 DEMOCRATIC STATE ATTORNEYS GENERAL FILED A FEDERAL LAWSUIT AGAINST TRUMP, MUSK AND DOGE … ASKING THE COURT TO “RESTORE CONSTITUTIONAL ORDER” AND STOP MUSK “FROM ISSUING ORDERS TO ANY PERSON IN THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH OUTSIDE OF DOGE.”
THE JUDGE DENIED THE REQUEST SAYING SHE COULD NOT ISSUE A TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER AGAINST MUSK AND DOGE WITHOUT CLEAR EVIDENCE OF IMMINENT IRREPARABLE HARM TO THE STATES.
THIS ISN’T THE FIRST TIME MUSK AND DOGE HAVE BEEN ORDERED TO TURN OVER RECORDS ABOUT SPENDING CUTS.
ON MONDAY, ANOTHER JUDGE ORDERED MUSK AND DOGE TO RELEASE SOME OF ITS RECORDS TO COMPLY WITH THREE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT REQUESTS FROM A WATCHDOG NONPROFIT – CITIZENS FOR RESPONSIBILITY AND ETHICS IN WASHINGTON, OR CREW.
THE JUDGE SAYS DOGE IS OPERATING WITH “UNUSUAL SECRECY.”
WHEN ASKED ABOUT THE RULING, A SPOKESPERSON FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE TOLD BUSINESS INSIDER MUSK AND DOGE ARE QUOTE “SAVING HISTORIC AMOUNTS OF TAXPAYER MONEY FROM BEING SPENT ON UNSERIOUS BUREAUCRATIC PET PROJECTS.”
THE JUDGE GAVE THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT UNTIL MARCH 20TH TO GIVE THE COURT AN ESTIMATE OF THE NUMBER OF DOCUMENTS THAT WOULD FALL UNDER CREW’S REQUEST.
AS FOR THE MOST RECENT DOCUMENT REQUEST, MUSK AND DOGE HAVE THREE WEEKS TO COMPLY.
FOR SAN, I’M CRAIG NIGRELLI.
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Bias Summary
- A federal judge ordered Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency to provide detailed plans for downsizing federal operations and identify all employees involved, as stated by U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan.
- Fourteen states are suing Musk and DOGE, claiming unconstitutional actions and seeking to halt layoffs of federal workers, as they stated in court documents.
- The ruling requires Musk and DOGE to produce operational documents regarding federal agencies and contracts within three weeks, as stipulated by Chutkan.
Bias Comparison
The Left
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The Center
fusce tincidunt quam in neque suspendisse cras iaculis donec vel augue arcu faucibus, nunc et elit sem dictum commodo nec massa magnis leo lectus.
The Right
senectus maecenas tellus ornare ridiculus vulputate platea porta praesent mi nascetur fusce placerat, condimentum mauris quam scelerisque duis nibh orci tempor sodales varius volutpat, tristique ultrices a aliquet per torquent metus facilisis euismod venenatis velit.
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6
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5
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9
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3 weeks ago
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- Amtrak is emphasizing its free baggage policy after Southwest Airlines announced during the week of March 9 that it will begin charging for checked bags. The airline did not reveal specifically when the “bags fly free” policy will expire.
- Amtrak went on social media to proclaim that each passenger is allowed to take one personal item and two carry-on items on board. However, there are weight limits.
- While Southwest says it is trying to return to levels of profitability and meet future customer needs, Amtrak previously revealed it had record ridership in fiscal year 2024.
Full Story
Amtrak wasted little time trying to seize the spotlight after Southwest Airlines announced it is altering its “bags fly free” policy the week of March 9.
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The nation’s passenger railroad company went on social media, issuing two brief statements on its bag policy.
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What did Amtrak say?
The company’s post on X stated that each passenger may bring one personal and two carry-on items for free, saying, “guess we’re the only ones doing free baggage now.”
guess we’re the only ones doing free baggage now
— Amtrak (@Amtrak) March 11, 2025
What are some of the specifics of the Southwest policy change?
Amtrak’s message comes after Southwest announced on Tuesday, March 11, that some passengers will be charged for their checked bags on all flights booked on or after May 28. No specific price was given.
Certain customers enrolled in Southwest’s Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred program and those who pay Business Select fares will still receive two free checked bags, as Southwest looks to beef up its loyalty rewards program.
In addition, Southwest will allow one free checked bag for customers who are Rapid Rewards credit card holders, as well as other select customers.
Southwest President and CEO Bob Jordan said in a statement that the airline has an opportunity to meet current and future customer needs, attract new customers and return to profitability.
Other changes at Southwest
The airline, long known for its no-frills approach, recently announced it will do away with its lettered open seating group approach, moving to assigned seating beginning in early 2026. In addition, the company increased fees for its priority boarding.
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What are Amtrak’s rules when it comes to baggage?
As for Amtrak, personal items must be lighter than 25 pounds, while carry-on items must be under 50 pounds. Customers are charged an excess baggage fee if the bags are larger than the required dimensions, or the customer has more than three total items.
Back in December 2024, Amtrak reported that it set an all-time record for ridership in fiscal year 2024, with nearly 33 million customers.
[Craig Nigrelli]
AMTRAK WASTED LITTLE TIME TRYING TO SEIZE THE SPOTLIGHT AFTER SOUTHWEST AIRLINES THIS WEEK ANNOUNCED IT IS ELIMINATING IT “BAGS FLY FREE POLICY”.
THE NATION’S PASSENGER RAILROAD COMPANY WENT ON social medi, ISSUING TWO BRIEF STATEMENTS ON ITS BAG POLICY.
THE COMPANY POSTED ON SOCIAL MEDIA – “ EACH PASSENGER MAY BRING 1 PERSONAL + 2 CARRY-ON ITEMS FREE. AND QUOTE “ GUESS WE’RE THE ONLY ONES DOING FREE BAGGAGE NOW. “
THE MESSAGING COMES AFTER SOUTHWEST ANNOUNCED ON TUESDAY THAT SOME PASSENGERS WILL BE CHARGED FOR THEIR CHECKED BAGS ON ALL FLIGHTS BOOKED ON OR AFTER MAY 28TH. NO SPECIFIC PRICE WAS GIVEN.
CERTAIN CUSTOMERS ENROLLED IN SOUTHWEST’S RAPID REWARDS A-LIST PREFERRED PROGRAM AND THOSE WHO PAY BUSINESS SELECT FARES WILL STILL RECEIVE TWO FREE CHECKED BAGS, AS SOUTHWEST LOOKS TO BEEF UP ITS LOYALTY REWARDS PROGRAM. IN ADDITION, SOUTHWEST WILL ALLOW ONE FREE CHECKED BAG FOR CUSTOMERS WHO ARE RAPID REWARDS CREDIT CARD MEMBERS, AS WELL AS OTHER SELECT CUSTOMERS.
SOUTHWEST PRESIDENT AND CEO BOB JORDAN SAID IN A STATEMENT, “WE HAVE TREMENDOUS OPPORTUNITY TO MEET CURRENT AND FUTURE CUSTOMER NEEDS, ATTRACT NEW CUSTOMER SEGMENTS WE DON’T COMPETE FOR TODAY AND RETURN TO LEVELS OF PROFITABILITY THAT BOTH WE AND OUR SHAREHOLDERS EXPECT. “
THE 53-YEAR-OLD COMPANY, LONG KNOWN FOR ITS NO-FRILLS APPROACH, RECENTLY ANNOUNCED IT WILL DO AWAY WITH ITS A,B AND C GROUP OPEN SEATING AND GO TO ASSIGNED SEATING, BEGINNING IN EARLY 2026. IN ADDITION, THE COMPANY INCREASED FEES FOR ITS PRIORITY BOARDING.
AS FOR AMTRAK, Personal items must be lighter than 25 POUNDS, while carry-on items must be under 50 POUNDS. Customers are charged an excess baggage fee of $20 A BAG, IF THE BAGS ARE LARGERS THAN REQUIRED DIMENSIONS OR IF PASSENGERS HAVE MORE THAN THE THREE, TOTAL ITEMS, ALLOWED.
BACK IN DECEMBER, AMTRAK REPORTED THAT IT SET AN ALL-TIME RECORD FOR RIDERSHIP IN 2024, WITH NEARLY 33 MILLION CUSTOMERS.
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Bias Summary
- Eros ac cubilia arcu inceptos nisl dictum dis laoreet ultrices, id tellus nibh dapibus fusce congue commodo magnis.
- Vestibulum nibh finibus curabitur augue tempus mollis varius torquent volutpat potenti maecenas ultrices bibendum mattis, quam purus condimentum fames feugiat aliquam sem pretium eros lacus cras neque.
- Conubia torquent per vel nulla senectus finibus placerat convallis fermentum natoque rutrum porttitor fames, facilisi potenti sed congue auctor nibh sem adipiscing tortor cras tellus.
Bias Comparison
The Left
dignissim ut velit euismod leo vitae class rutrum, sociosqu sem cubilia sodales porta sit.
The Center
litora id est dignissim vestibulum fusce porta neque mus sociosqu metus lectus, senectus lacus dis cubilia dictumst sagittis turpis netus dapibus.
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198
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42
Center
94
Leaning Right
21
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- U.S. authorities relocated 40 migrants from Guantánamo Bay to Louisiana, marking the end of migrant detention at the naval base. The move follows controversy and operational challenges.
- President Donald Trump initially planned to detain up to 30,000 migrants at Guantánamo Bay, but officials deemed the facility’s conditions inadequate.
- The administration’s migrant detention policy faces ongoing criticism, lawsuits and debate about Guantánamo’s future role.
Full Story
The Trump administration transferred the remaining migrants held at the Guantánamo Bay Naval Station in Cuba to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Alexandria, Louisiana.
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Officials flew 40 men back to the U.S. on Tuesday, March 11, and Wednesday, March 12, after removing 48 other migrants from Guantánamo two weeks earlier.
The administration’s decision comes after months of logistical and legal challenges surrounding the use of the naval base for migrant detention.
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How did Guantánamo become part of US immigration policy?
In January, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to prepare Guantánamo Bay for migrant detention.
The administration initially planned to hold up to 30,000 individuals at the facility as part of what Trump described as the most extensive deportation operation in U.S. history. However, the number of migrants actually detained at the base remained in the low hundreds.
The policy faced significant hurdles, including ICE’s determination that the tents built at Guantánamo did not meet its detention standards.
The 195 tents, which cost $16 million to construct, lacked basic amenities such as air conditioning, making them unsuitable for long-term use.
What challenges has the administration faced?
The Guantánamo operation saw logistical, financial and legal difficulties. The administration has relied on costly military and nonmilitary flights to transport migrants back and forth, raising questions about the effectiveness of the initiative.
DHS and DOD officials are now debating whether to continue using the base for future migrant detention.
As of now, officials have not scheduled any further flights to Guantánamo. They may reassign some of the hundreds of U.S. troops who set up the facility to assist with border security efforts elsewhere.
Who were the migrants held at Guantánamo?
Among the detainees, 23 were classified as “high threat” individuals and held in the military’s high-security detention facility. The remaining 17 were housed in a separate migrant operations center.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that many of those classified as high threat were members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, with charges ranging from murder and assault to drug and weapons trafficking.
Despite these classifications, ICE and DHS have not publicly disclosed the migrants’ identities, countries of origin or the specific crimes authorities have accused them of committing.
How have lawmakers and activists responded?
The administration’s handling of the Guantánamo migrant operation has drawn criticism from lawmakers and civil rights groups.
Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif., who toured the facility, described the initiative as “costly, complicated, inefficient, and cruel.” She noted that the administration failed to establish a feasible plan for detaining 30,000 migrants as originally intended.
I'm not surprised that ICE has transferred all immigrants from Guantanamo Bay back to stateside facilities. When I was there, it was clear that this "plan" was too costly, complicated, inefficient, and cruel. pic.twitter.com/hE9gvLmJYM
— Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (@RepSaraJacobs) March 13, 2025
Legal challenges have also emerged.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and other advocacy groups have filed lawsuits challenging the legality of using Guantánamo for migrant detention.
A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order to block officials from transferring three migrants to the base, but authorities later deported them to Venezuela. Another lawsuit aims to prevent the government from transferring additional detainees to the base without legal representation.
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What happens next?
With no new flights planned to Guantánamo, the administration appears to be reconsidering its use of the facility. However, Trump officials continue to defend the policy, arguing that Guantánamo is a strategic location for detaining migrants, particularly those considered a security risk.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has suggested that the base could still serve as a holding center for “the worst of the worst” criminals facing deportation.
For now, the 40 transferred migrants will remain in ICE custody in Louisiana as they await further processing and deportation.
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The Left
tellus scelerisque porta condimentum suspendisse pulvinar sem ac aliquam nascetur sodales tortor fusce justo at, quisque phasellus non purus cursus primis suscipit risus himenaeos interdum placerat sagittis.
The Center
vestibulum venenatis tortor tempus posuere mattis pharetra hac ligula est, urna mollis maximus praesent diam sed ornare ridiculus odio, lacinia eu felis id quis euismod consectetur conubia.
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5
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6
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1
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- The Trump administration reversed its decision to pause funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to the University of Maine System (UMS). This restored millions of dollars in federal support after Sen. Susan Collins intervened.
- The USDA initiated a compliance review of UMS in response to concerns about the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports, following President Donald Trump’s executive order banning such participation.
- The restored USDA funding supports programs at Maine universities, including research and 4-H.
Full Story
In a swift reversal, the Trump administration restored all U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) funding to the University of Maine System (UMS) Wednesday night, March 12, according to Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine.
Collins’ office said the change came after the senator consulted the Trump administration.
On Monday, March 10, UMS said the administration paused federal funding to its eight public colleges, pending an investigation to determine whether the school system violated a federal civil rights law for allowing transgender athletes in Maine to play on women’s sports teams.
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Title IX is a federal law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in schools and education programs that receive federal funding.
What led to the compliance review?
On Feb. 21, President Donald Trump had a tense exchange with Maine Democratic Gov. Janet Mills at the White House. In the exchange, Trump warned her the federal government would pull funding from Maine schools if they allowed trans athletes to play in sports.
“We’ll see you in court,” Mills responded to Trump.
On Feb. 22, the USDA launched the compliance review.
In a statement, the USDA said the review is in response to Maine’s “blatant disregard” for Trump’s executive order intended to ban transgender women from competing in women’s sports.
The statement went on to say that the University of Maine is an institution that receives over $100 million in USDA funding.
The school system said it had provided responses to the USDA confirming its athletic programs complied with state and federal law.
What is USDA funding used for at Maine universities?
The USDA funding at Maine universities supports several activities, including research, 4-H and University of Maine’s Tick Lab.
In a statement Wednesday, Collins commented on the restored funding.
“This USDA funding is critically important not only to the University of Maine, but to our farmers and loggers, as well as to the many people who work in Maine’s agriculture, aquaculture, and forestry industries,” Collins said. “Now that funding has been restored, the work that the University does in partnership with the many people and communities who depend on these programs can continue.”
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Mills also released a statement on the change.
“The Governor welcomes the decision by USDA to restore funding to the University of Maine System. It is a relief to the many students, staff, and faculty who depend on that funding to support cutting-edge research and development, prepare for careers in Maine, and make valuable contributions to our rural communities and our economy. This decision also benefits many Maine farmers, loggers, and others who work in close partnership with UMaine. The Governor extends her appreciation to Sen. Susan Collins for her efforts on behalf of the University of Maine System to ensure this important work continues.”
Statement from Maine Gov. Janet Mills
The USDA has not commented on the reversal of the funding freeze.
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- South Korea’s military charged two air force pilots with criminal negligence for mistakenly bombing a civilian village during training. The incident injured at least 29 people near the North Korean border.
- Investigators found the pilots entered incorrect target coordinates, causing KF-16 fighter jets to drop bombs outside the designated area.
- The military removed the pilots from flight duties, dismissed unit commanders and suspended live-fire exercises pending review.
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South Korean military officials charged two air force pilots with criminal negligence after they mistakenly dropped bombs on a civilian village during a training exercise.
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The March 6 incident in Pocheon, a town near the North Korean border, injured at least 29 people, including 15 civilians, and caused significant property damage.
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How did the accident occur?
Investigators determined that the pilots incorrectly entered target coordinates into their aircraft systems, causing two KF-16 fighter jets to release eight 500-pound MK-82 bombs outside the designated training area.
The explosions damaged buildings and homes, leaving several residents with ear injuries, migraines and anxiety. Nine people remain hospitalized, including two in serious condition.
What actions has the military taken?
The Defense Ministry removed the pilots from flight duties and scheduled a review of their mission certification. Under South Korean law, if convicted, they could face up to five years in prison or a fine.
Military officials also dismissed two unit commanders, a colonel and a lieutenant colonel, for failing to enforce safety protocols during the exercise.
How has the public responded?
Pocheon residents held protests near the Defense Ministry in Seoul, demanding an end to military drills they say endanger civilians.
The protests reflect long-standing concerns among locals over the risks posed by military operations near civilian areas.
What are the political and military implications?
North Korea condemned the incident, arguing that it demonstrates the dangers of joint U.S.-South Korean military exercises and the potential for escalation.
Despite the bombing, South Korean military officials confirmed that upcoming joint drills with the U.S. will proceed as planned.
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What steps are being taken to prevent future incidents?
The South Korean government has suspended all live-fire exercises until investigators complete their review of the incident.
The South Korean air force chief of staff apologized for the accident and pledged to strengthen mission procedures to prevent similar errors in the future.
[craig nigrelli]
SOUTH KOREAN MILITARY OFFICIALS CHARGED TWO AIR FORCE PILOTS WITH CRIMINAL NEGLIGENCE AFTER THEY ENTERED INCORRECT COORDINATES DURING A TRAINING EXERCISE, CAUSING THEIR FIGHTER JETS TO BOMB A CIVILIAN VILLAGE. THE MARCH 6 INCIDENT IN POCHEON, (poach -on) NEAR THE NORTH N KOREAN BORDER, INJURED AT LEAST 29 PEOPLE INCLUDING 15 CIVILIANS AND 14 SOLDIERS, CAUSING EXTENSIVE PROPERTY DAMAGE.
INVESTIGATORS DETERMINED THE PILOTS MISTAKENLY DIRECTED TWO KF-16 FIGHTER JETS TO RELEASE EIGHT 500-POUND MK-82 BOMBS OUTSIDE THE DESIGNATED TRAINING RANGE. THE EXPLOSIONS DAMAGED HOMES AND BUILDINGS, LEAVING RESIDENTS WITH EAR INJURIES, MIGRAINES, AND ANXIETY. NINE VICTIMS REMAIN HOSPITALIZED, INCLUDING TWO IN SERIOUS CONDITION.
THE DEFENSE MINISTRY REMOVED THE PILOTS FROM FLIGHT DUTIES AND SCHEDULED A REVIEW OF THEIR MISSION CERTIFICATION. IF CONVICTED, THEY COULD FACE UP TO FIVE YEARS IN PRISON OR A FINE UNDER SOUTH KOREAN LAW. MILITARY OFFICIALS ALSO DISMISSED TWO UNIT COMMANDERS RESPONSIBLE FOR OVERSEEING SAFETY PROTOCOLS.
RESIDENTS IN POCHEON PROTESTED NEAR THE DEFENSE MINISTRY IN SEOUL, CALLING FOR AN END TO MILITARY DRILLS THEY SAY PUT CIVILIANS AT RISK. MEANWHILE, NORTH KOREA CONDEMNED THE INCIDENT, ARGUING IT HIGHLIGHTS THE DANGERS OF U.S.-SOUTH KOREAN MILITARY EXERCISES AND THE POTENTIAL FOR ESCALATION.
THE GOVERNMENT SUSPENDED LIVE-FIRE EXERCISES WHILE INVESTIGATORS EXAMINE THE FAILURE. DESPITE THE INCIDENT, JOINT U.S.-SOUTH KOREAN MILITARY DRILLS WILL CONTINUE AS PLANNED.
THE AIR FORCE CHIEF OF STAFF APOLOGIZED AND PLEDGED TO REVIEW PROCEDURES TO PREVENT FUTURE INCIDENTS.
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Bias Summary
- Two air force pilots in South Korea were charged with criminal negligence for accidentally bombing a village, injuring 43 people, including 29 civilians, during training exercises.
- Investigators found that the pilots' errors in entering coordinates were direct factors in the incident, and investigations are still ongoing.
- The South Korean Air Force chief of staff apologized for the accident, stating that it should never have happened and pledged to review safety protocols.
- North Korea condemned the bombing, warning that such incidents could escalate tensions and potentially lead to armed conflict.
Bias Comparison
Media outlets on the left
emphasize the legal accountability through the phrase “charged with criminal negligence,” underscoring the severity of military protocol failures.
Media outlets in the center
focus on the increased number of injured, highlighting human impact more intensely, thus raising the emotional stakes.
Media outlets on the right
echo the sentiments of the other sides, but emphasize a different aspect by omitting the specific legal accountability highlighted by the left.
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3
Center
3
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4
Last Updated
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- The death toll from the mass shooting at Columbine High School has risen nearly 26 years after the killings. An autopsy report on Wednesday revealed “the manner of death” for Anne Marie Hochhalter, who died in her apartment in a Denver suburb in February, “is best classified as homicide.”
- The report found that Hochhalter died because of medical complications from sepsis and paralysis due to a pair of gunshot wounds she sustained during the shooting, which were ruled a “significant contributing factor” to her death at the age of 43.
- Hochhalter’s death now increases the death toll in the Columbine killings to 13 students and one teacher.
Full Story
The death toll from the mass shooting at Columbine High School has risen nearly 26 years after the massacre.
What did the autopsy report reveal?
An autopsy report, released on Wednesday, March 12, revealed “the manner of death” for Anne Marie Hochhalter, who died in her apartment in a Denver suburb in February, “is best classified as homicide.”
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The report found that Hochhalter died because of medical complications from sepsis and paralysis due to a pair of gunshot wounds she sustained during the shooting, which were ruled a “significant contributing factor” to her death at the age of 43.
Including Hochhalter, the death toll of the 1999 attack on the Colorado high school has now risen to 13 students and one teacher, with the attackers also taking their own lives during the shooting.
Who was Anne Marie Hochhalter?
Hochhalter became an advocate for victims of mass shootings after enduring her own trauma, and became close friends with Rick Townsend, who lost his daughter Lauren in the Columbine shooting.
Townsend told CBS News Colorado that Hochhalter “was never bitter, or angry because of her injuries.”
The gunmen shot Hochhalter in the chest and spinal cord, leading to paralysis, which left her in a wheelchair for the remainder of her life.
How are those who knew Hochhalter reacting to her death?
Those close to Hochhalter told The Denver Post that after her death, despite the medical problems brought on by the shooting, she never wanted to be seen as a victim.
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Her brother, Nathan Hochhalter, told CNN that, despite enduring intense pain from her injuries over the past quarter century, she worked to help members of her family, people with disabilities and rescue dogs.
He said, “She was helpful to a great many people. She was a good human being and sister.”
Tags: CBS News, CNN, Colorado, Crime, Death, Denver, Gun violence, Homicide, Mass shootings, Murder, School Shooting, shooting, students, teachers
[CRAIG NIGRELLI]
THE DEATH TOLL FROM THE MASS SHOOTING AT COLUMBINE HIGH SCHOOL HAS RISEN NEARLY 26 YEARS AFTER THE MASSACRE.
AN AUTOPSY REPORT WEDNESDAY REVEALS “THE MANNER OF DEATH” FOR ANNE MARIE HOCHHALTER, WHO DIED IN HER APARTMENT IN A DENVER SUBURB LAST MONTH “IS BEST CLASSIFIED AS A HOMICIDE.”
THE REPORT FOUND HOCHHALTER DIED BECAUSE OF MEDICAL COMPLICATIONS FROM SEPSIS AND PARALYSIS DUE TO A PAIR OF GUNSHOT WOUNDS SHE SUSTAINED DURING THE SHOOTING WHICH WERE RULED A “SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTING FACTOR” TO HER DEATH AT THE AGE OF 43.
HOCHHALTER’S DEATH NOW INCREASES THE DEATH TOLL IN THE COLUMBINE KILLINGS TO 13 STUDENTS AND ONE TEACHER. THE TWO SHOOTERS TOOK THEIR OWN LIVES.
THE GUNMEN SHOT HOCHHALTER IN THE CHEST AND SPINAL CORD LEADING TO HER PARALYSIS WHICH LEFT HER IN A WHEELCHAIR FOR THE REMAINDER OF HER LIFE.
HOCHHALTER BECAME AN ADVOCATE FOR VICTIMS OF MASS SHOOTINGS AFTER ENDURING HER OWN TRAUMA AND BECAME CLOSE FRIENDS WITH RICK TOWNSEND, WHO LOST HIS DAUGHTER LAUREN IN THE COLUMBINE SHOOTING.
TOWNSEND TOLD C-B-S NEWS COLORADO HOCHHALTER “WAS NEVER BITTER, OR ANGRY BECAUSE OF HER INJURIES.”
THOSE CLOSE TO HOCHHALTER TELL THE DENVER POST AFTER HER DEATH DESPITE THE MEDICAL PROBLEMS BROUGHT ON BY THE SHOOTING SHE NEVER WANTED TO BE SEEN AS A VICTIM.
HER BROTHER NATHAN HOCHHALTER TELLS C-N-N DESPITE ENDURING INTENSE PAIN FROM HER INJURIES OVER THE PAST QUARTER CENTURY, SHE WORKED TO HELP PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, RESCUE DOGS AND MEMBERS OF HER FAMILY.
HE SAID, “SHE WAS HELPFUL TO A GREAT MANY PEOPLE. SHE WAS REALLY A GOOD HUMAN BEING AND SISTER.”
FOR MORE ON THIS STORY– DOWNLOAD THE STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS APP OR VISIT SAN DOT COM.
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- SpaceX delayed a launch to the ISS due to a technical issue, impacting the crew rotation and astronauts’ return. NASA aims to reschedule for Friday, March 14.
- The launch team identified the hydraulic problem less than four hours before liftoff, promptly canceling the mission.
- A successful launch would allow astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams to return to Earth on March 19 after nine months in space.
Full Story
SpaceX postponed a planned launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on Wednesday, March 12, due to a hydraulic system issue on the launch pad. The mission, which was set to send a replacement crew at the ISS, would have paved the way for the return of NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been stranded in space for nine months.
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NASA officials cited concerns with the hydraulics used to release one of the two arms securing the Falcon 9 rocket before liftoff. Engineers identified the issue less than four hours before launch, leading to a cancellation with less than an hour remaining in the countdown.
The agency now aims for a Friday, March 14, launch.
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Why are Wilmore and Williams stuck in space?
Wilmore and Williams originally traveled to the ISS in June 2024 aboard Boeing’s Starliner capsule, the first test flight of the spacecraft with astronauts.
Boeing’s Starliner experienced mid-flight propulsion system failures, preventing it from safely returning to Earth and extending the mission beyond its planned week.
NASA ordered the capsule to return empty, transferring Wilmore and Williams to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon for their eventual return.
NASA has kept Wilmore and Williams aboard the ISS to ensure the station remains adequately staffed until their replacements arrive. The two astronauts have spent the past nine months conducting research and maintenance while waiting for a safe ride home.
What happens next?
SpaceX will launch Crew-10 on Friday, March 14, paving the way for Wilmore, Williams, Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov to return to Earth on March 19 aboard a Crew Dragon capsule.
Now targeting no earlier than Friday, March 14 for Falcon 9's launch of @NASA's Crew-10 mission → https://t.co/VPdhVwQFNJ pic.twitter.com/JVszH0DjC8
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) March 13, 2025
NASA accelerated this crew rotation after President Donald Trump and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk publicly pushed for Wilmore and Williams’ earlier return.
NASA accelerated the mission from March 26 by replacing a delayed Crew Dragon capsule with one that was ready sooner.
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How has Starliner’s failure impacted NASA?
Boeing’s Starliner was developed under a $4.5 billion NASA contract meant to provide an alternative to SpaceX’s Crew Dragon. However, repeated delays, cost overruns and technical failures have kept Starliner from achieving certification for routine astronaut missions.
The ongoing issues have left Crew Dragon as NASA’s only operational spacecraft for ferrying astronauts to and from the ISS.
NASA and Boeing have not announced a new target date for Starliner’s next test flight. Meanwhile, SpaceX continues to handle astronaut transport under a separate NASA contract worth at least $4 billion.
[craig nigrelli]
DISAPPOINTMENT THIS MORNING ON THE GROUND AND IN SPACE, LAST NIGHT, SPACEX HAD TO DELAY A FLIGHT TO THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION TO bring home TWO AMERICAN ASTRONAUTS WHO HAVE BEEN STUCK THERE FOR NINE MONTHS.
THE SPACECRAFT WAS SET TO takeoff Wednesday FROM CAPE CANAVERAL, FLORIDA, WHEN MANAGERS SCRUBBED THE LAUNCH AFTER CONCERNS OR PROBLEMS WITH THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM. The new crew OF FOUR, WILL REPLACE Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams ON THE I-S-S.
THE FALCON ROCKET LIFTOFF MIGHT NOW TAKE PLACE ON FRIDAY FROM THE Kennedy Space Center.
LAST NIGHT, THE COUNTDOWN CLOCK WAS ALREADY TICKING WHEN ENGINEERS EVALUATED THE HYDRAULICS, USED TO RELEASE ONE OF THE TWO ARMS, clamping the rocket to its support structure. The structure needs to **tilt back**, before liftoff.
SPACEX THEN CANCELED THE LIFTOFF WITH LESS THAN ONE HOUR TO GO.
ASTRONAUTS FROM THE U.S., Japan and Russia will replace Wilmore and Williams, the American TEST PILOTS who HAVE BEEN STUCK on the space station SINCE JUNE, AFTER THE BOEING STARLINER EXPERIENCED MAJOR BREAKDOWNS AND HAD to RETURN TO EARTH, EMPTY.
SPACEX HAS TAKEN OVER THE RETURN LEG.
A TRIP THAT WAS TO LAST A WEEK FOR WILMORE AND WILLIAMS HAS TURNED INTO A MONTH TO MONTH SAGA ON HOW TO GET THEM HOME.
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Bias Summary
- SpaceX delayed its mission to the International Space Station due to a hydraulic system issue, postponing the arrival of a replacement crew for NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been stranded since June 2024.
- The astronauts were originally scheduled to return on Boeing's Starliner capsule, but critical failures during its first crewed flight extended their stay aboard the ISS.
- The postponed launch from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station aimed to send four new crew members to the ISS in preparation for Wilmore and Williams's return.
- SpaceX is considering rescheduling the launch attempt for Friday, March 14, to ensure Wilmore and Williams can return home.
Bias Comparison
Media outlets on the left
emphasized the “stuck” astronauts and framed the situation with a sense of urgency.
Media outlets on the right
highlighted political angles, mentioning President Donald Trump’s accusations of the Biden administration “abandoning” the astronauts and Musk’s offer of a “rescue” mission.
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Bias Distribution
330 other sources covering this story
Total News Sources
330
Leaning Left
63
Center
107
Leaning Right
43
Last Updated
3 weeks ago
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- Canadians staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days must now register with immigration authorities and provide fingerprints, according to a rule published in the Federal Register. The requirement, previously unenforced for land travelers, takes effect April 11.
- The Trump administration reinforced existing immigration law through an executive order, making non-compliance a civil and criminal enforcement priority.
- Failure to register may result in fines up to $5,000, imprisonment up to 30 days or both, with exemptions for certain groups.
Full Story
The U.S. government will now require Canadian visitors staying in the country for more than 30 days to register with immigration authorities. It’s a mandate that had previously been unenforced for those entering through land borders.
Canadians aged 14 and older must also undergo fingerprinting as part of the process, according to a rule published in the Federal Register.
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Why is the US enforcing this rule now?
Existing immigration law requires this, but officials had not consistently applied it to Canadian travelers.
President Donald Trump reinforced its enforcement through an executive order signed on the first day of his second term, directing all previously unregistered foreign nationals to comply.
The administration will prioritize civil and criminal enforcement against those who fail to register.
How does this impact Canadian travelers?
The rule takes effect April 11 and will impact about 900,000 Canadians, including seasonal visitors who spend winters in the U.S.
Previously, only air travelers had to register. Those who do not comply could face a fine of up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to 30 days or both.
Are there any exemptions?
The requirement does not apply to American Indians born in Canada who enter the U.S. under Section 289 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and members of the Texas Band of Kickapoo Indians who enter under the Texas Band of Kickapoo Act.
Green card holders, individuals in deportation proceedings and those entering the country with visas are also exempt.
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How does this fit into broader US-Canada relations?
The rule’s enforcement follows escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada.
The Trump administration threatened to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum but pulled back after Ontario suspended its planned surcharge on U.S. electricity. However, a 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum remains.
The visitor registration requirement is part of the administration’s broader immigration policy under the Protecting American People Against Invasion executive order, which aims to remove barriers to deportation and strengthen enforcement measures.
The Department of Homeland Security has stated that further details on compliance procedures will be provided in the coming weeks.
Tags: Border, Canada, Department of Homeland Security, Immigrant, Immigration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Tariff, Tariffs, U.S. Customs and Border Protection
[craig nigrelli]
THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION IS NOW REQUIRING CANADIAN VISITORS, WHO STAY IN THE U.S. LONGER THAN 30 DAYS, TO REGISTER WITH THE u-s GOVERNMENT.
ACCORDING TO A new rule, UPLOADED WEDNESDAY TO THE FEDERAL REGISTER, PEOPLE OLDER THAN 14 WILL ALSO NEED TO APPLY FOR FINGERPRINTING WITH AUTHORITIES, TIGHTENING A LAW THAT ALREADY EXISTED, BUT CANADIANS ARE USUALLY EXEMPT.
ON HIS FIRST DAY IN OFFICE — PRESIDENT TRUMP SIGNED AN EXECUTIVE ORDER REQUIRING ALL PREVIOUSLY UNREGISTERED FOREIGN NATIONALS COMPLY WITH THE LAW.
UNDER THE ORDER, THOSE WHO DO NOT COMPLY WILL BE “TREATED AS A CIVIL AND CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT PRIORITY.”
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Government shutdown looms as Senate Dems decide on budget bill
Listen
A budget battle in Washington as Republicans attempt to advance a spending plan to keep the government operating. And the attempt to bring two stranded American astronauts home from the International Space Station takes a disappointing turn. These stories and more highlight your Unbiased Updates for Thursday, March 13, 2025.
Senate set to vote on budget bill to avoid government shutdown
House Democrats urge their Senate counterparts to reject a Republican spending bill that would ultimately prevent the federal government from shutting down in less than 48 hours.
The measure narrowly passed in the House on Tuesday, March 11.
Republicans need 60 supporters to get the bill to President Donald Trump’s desk in time to prevent some parts of the government from shutting down.
The government will shut down if Congress does not pass a continuing resolution by 11:59 p.m. Friday, March 14. As a result, many nonessential federal workers will either be sent home or work with no pay. Essential services like national security, law enforcement and air traffic control personnel will continue to operate.
The potential shutdown may disrupt or halt certain government services. For instance, national parks, museums and some federal offices may close, while others may operate with limited staffing.
However, some Democrats have voiced concerns that supporting the bill would set a bad precedent by effectively telling House Republicans they can write government funding measures without Democratic input.
Straight Arrow News reporter Lauren Taylor details what is now a shutdown showdown here.
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US officials head to Russia for Ukraine peace talks, Putin visits Kursk
Trump announced that U.S. officials would visit Russia to discuss a potential ceasefire deal with Ukraine.
This comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin made a surprise visit to Russia’s Kursk region, parts of which have been under Ukraine’s control since an incursion last year.
While in Kursk, Putin told troops on the front line that Moscow’s goal is to “completely liberate” the region as soon as possible.
Earlier this week, Ukraine agreed to a 30-day ceasefire plan proposed by the Trump Administration.
Now, Putin must decide whether Russia will accept the deal.
A Kremlin spokesperson said Wednesday that the Russian leader is “carefully studying” the proposal, and a phone call between Putin and Trump is possible.
Trump did not specify which of his administration officials he has sent to Moscow.
EPA administrator to roll back dozens of environmental regulations
The head of the Environmental Protection Agency announced plans for an aggressive rollback of environmental regulations nationwide, promising to put “a dagger through the heart of climate-change religion.”
On Wednesday, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin said he plans to reconsider more than a dozen core EPA rules and regulations. This includes regulations concerning vehicle emissions standards and pollution from power plants.
🚨BREAKING: @EPA is initiating 31 historic actions to Power the Great American Comeback in the greatest day of deregulation in American history!
— Lee Zeldin (@epaleezeldin) March 12, 2025
Our actions will unleash energy dominance, lower costs for Americans, strengthen the U.S. auto industry, and protect our environment. pic.twitter.com/7B3fh5qBKY
He also pledged to review the findings that provide the scientific basis for addressing climate change.
The rollbacks must first undergo a lengthy process that includes public comment. However, Zeldin said that if approved, these measures will eliminate trillions of dollars in regulatory costs and “hidden taxes.”
He said the planned actions might reduce the cost of living for American families and lower prices for essential items like buying a car, heating homes and running a business.
Trump admin starts registry for Canadian visitors to the US
The Trump administration now requires Canadian visitors staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days to register with the government.
According to a new rule uploaded to the Federal Register on Wednesday, March 12, those older than 14 must also apply for fingerprinting with the authorities. This tightens an existing law, which Canadians were generally exempt from.
On his first day in office, Trump signed an executive order requiring all previously unregistered foreign nationals to comply with the law.
Under the order, individuals who fail to comply will be “treated as a civil and criminal enforcement priority.”
SpaceX postpones Starliner mission to bring two astronauts home from ISS
SpaceX delayed a flight to the International Space Station, which was aimed at returning two American astronauts who had been stranded there for nine months.
The spacecraft was set to take off Wednesday, March 12, from Cape Canaveral, Florida, when managers scrubbed the launch after concerns or problems with the hydraulic system. The new crew of four will replace Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams on the ISS.
The Falcon rocket liftoff might now take place Friday, March 14, from the Kennedy Space Center.
Now targeting no earlier than Friday, March 14 for Falcon 9's launch of @NASA's Crew-10 mission → https://t.co/VPdhVwQFNJ pic.twitter.com/JVszH0DjC8
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) March 13, 2025
On Wednesday night, the countdown clock was already ticking as engineers assessed the hydraulics used to release one of the two arms clamping the rocket to its support structure. The structure must tilt back before liftoff.
SpaceX then canceled the liftoff with less than an hour to go.
Astronauts from the U.S., Japan and Russia will replace Wilmore and Williams. The two American test pilots have been stuck on the space station since June 2024, after the Boeing Starliner experienced major breakdowns and had to return to Earth, empty.
SpaceX has assumed control of the return leg.
A trip that was supposed to last a week for Wilmore and Williams has turned into a month-to-month saga on how to get them home.
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Lawmakers propose sports betting regulations days before March Madness
As millions of Americans get ready to fill out their brackets, it’s becoming common to play for fun at the office and bet to win big.
March Madness is less than a week away, and if it’s anything like last year, Americans will place more than $2.5 billion in bets on the tournament.
Now, federal lawmakers are seeking to protect Americans from becoming overly involved.
That’s why two members of Congress introduced the Safe Bet Act, a bill to regulate online sports betting, which they hope will save vulnerable Americans from addiction and financial turmoil.
Straight Arrow News political correspondent Ray Bogan breaks down how lawmakers intend to regulate betting on March Madness here.
Tags: budget, Canada, Donald Trump, Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, Government Shutdown, House of Representatives, International Space Station, NASA, Russia, Russia-Ukraine War, SpaceX, Spending, Sports, Sports betting, U.S. Senate, Ukraine, Ukraine aid, Vladimir Putin
GOOD MORNING
I’M CRAIG NIGRELLI
IT’S THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2025, AND THESE ARE YOUR UNBIASED UPDATES:
A BUDGET BATTLE IN WASHINGTON, AS REPUBLICANS TRY TO PUSH THROUGH A SPENDING PLAN TO KEEP THE GOVERNMENT RUNNING. WHY ITS A HEAVY LIFT IN THE U.S. SENATE AND WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS NO DEAL.
ALSO, MISSION SCRUBBED. THE ATTEMPT TO BRING TWO STRANDED AMERICAN ASTRONAUTS, HOME, FROM THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION TAKES A DISAPPOINTING TURN. WHEN THEY MIGHT TRY AGAIN TO LAUNCH FROM THE KENNEDY SPACE CENTER.
HOUSE DEMOCRATS ARE URGING THEIR SENATE COUNTERPARTS TO REJECT A REPUBLICAN BILL. THAT WOULD KEEP THE federal GOVERNMENT FROM SHUTTING DOWN, IN LESS THAN 48 HOURS.
THE MEASURE JUST BARELY PASSED IN THE HOUSE TUESDAY, WITH NO SUPPORT FROM DEMOCRATS.
IN ORDER TO MAKE IT TO PRESIDENT TRUMP’S DESK, IN TIME TO KEEP SOME PARTS OF THE GOVERNMENT FROM CLOSING, REPUBLICANS NEED TO GET TO SIXTY SUPPORTERS.
STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS REPORTER LAUREN TAYLOR THE DETAILS ON WHAT IS NOW, A SHUTDOWN SHOWDOWN.
THE SENATE’S DEMOCRATIC LEADER, CHUCK SCHUMER OF NEW YORK, SAID ON THE SENATE FLOOR WEDNESDAY —
THE HOUSE’S STOPGAP BILL – WHICH THE HOUSE PASSED TUESDAY AND WOULD FUND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
FOR THE NEXT SIX MONTHS, DOES NOT HAVE ENOUGH VOTES IN THE SENATE.
“FUNDING THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD BE A BI-PARTISAN EFFORT….”
IF CONGRESS DOES NOT PASS A CONTINUING RESOLUTION BY 11:59 PM FRIDAY, THE GOVERNMENT WILL SHUTDOWN.
THIS MEANS MANY NON-ESSENTIAL FEDERAL WORKERS WILL EITHER BE SENT HOME OR WORK WITH NO PAY.
ESSENTIAL SERVICES WILL CONTINUE TO OPERATE — LIKE NATIONAL SECURITY, LAW ENFORCEMENT, AND AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL.
CERTAIN GOVERNMENT SERVICES MAY BE DISRUPTED OR HALTED.
NATIONAL PARKS, MUSEUMS, AND SOME FEDERAL OFFICES MAY CLOSE — WHILE OTHERS MAY OPERATE WITH LIMITED STAFFING.
HOUSE SPEAKER MIKE JOHNSON APPEARED ON FOX NEWS’ “FOX AND FRIENDS” PROGRAM WEDNESDAY MORNING.
“CHUCK SCHUMER HAS A BIG DECISION TO MAKE. IS HE GOING TO CAST A VOTE TO KEEP…”
SPEAKER JOHNSON SENT HOUSE MEMBERS HOME AFTER THE CHAMBER PASSED THE STOPGAP BILL —
AND THEY’RE NOT SCHEDULED BACK ON CAPITOL HILL UNTIL MARCH 24.
REPUBLICANS CONTROL 53 SENATE SEATS AND WOULD NEED SEVEN SENATE DEMOCRATS TO VOTE IN FAVOR OF
THEIR CONTINUING RESOLUTION TO KEEP THE GOVERNMENT FUNDED.
SOME DEMOCRATS HAVE ALSO VOICED CONCERNS THAT SUPPORTING THE BILL WOULD SET A BAD PRECEDENT BY EFFECTIVELY TELLING HOUSE REPUBLICANS THEY CAN WRITE GOVERNMENT FUNDING MEASURES **WITHOUT** DEMOCRATIC INPUT.
PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP SAYS U-S OFFICIALS ARE HEADED TO RUSSIA TO DISCUSS A POSSIBLE CEASEFIRE DEAL WITH UKRAINE.
THIS COMES AS RUSSIAN PRESIDENT VLADIMIR PUTIN MADE A SURPRISE VISIT TO RUSSIA’S KURSK REGION — PARTS OF WHICH HAVE BEEN UNDER UKRAINE’S CONTROL SINCE AN INCURSION LAST YEAR.
WHILE THERE, Putin TOLD TROOPS ON THE FRONT LINE MOSCOW’S GOAL IS TO QUOTE “COMPLETELY LIBERATE” THE REGION AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
EARLIER THIS WEEK, UKRAINE AGREED TO A 30-DAY CEASEFIRE PLAN PROPOSED BY THE trump administration.
NOW, PUTIN MUST DECIDE WHETHER RUSSIA WILL ACCEPT THE DEAL.
A KREMLIN SPOKESPERSON SAID WEDNESDAY THAT the russian leader IS QUOTE “CAREFULLY STUDYING” THE PROPOSAL AND A PHONE CALL BETWEEN PUTIN AND TRUMP IS POSSIBLE.
PRESIDENT TRUMP DID NOT SAY WHICH OF HIS ADMINISTRATION OFFICIALS HE has sent TO MOSCOW.
THE HEAD OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY HAS ANNOUNCED PLANS FOR AN AGGRESSIVE ROLLBACK OF ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS NATIONWIDE — PROMISING TO PUT QUOTE “A DAGGER THROUGH THE HEART OF CLIMATE-CHANGE RELIGION.”
ON WEDNESDAY — ADMINISTRATOR LEE ZELDIN SAID, IN BOTH A WALL STREET JOURNAL ESSAY AND AN OFFICIAL E-P-A NEWS RELEASE, HE INTENDS TO RECONSIDER MORE THAN A DOZEN CORE E-P-A RULES AND REGULATIONS, INCLUDING SOME ON VEHICLE EMISSIONS STANDARDS AND POLLUTION FROM POWER PLANTS.
HE ALSO PLEDGED A REVIEW OF THE FINDING THAT PROVIDES THE SCIENTIFIC BASIS FOR ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE.
THE ROLLBACKS MUST FIRST GO THROUGH A LENGTHY PROCESS THAT INCLUDES PUBLIC COMMENT — BUT ZELDIN SAYS, IF APPROVED, THE MOVES WILL ELIMINATE **TRILLIONS** OF DOLLARS IN REGULATORY COSTS AND “HIDDEN TAXES.”
HE SAYS THE PLANNED ACTIONS might CUT, THE COST OF LIVING FOR AMERICAN FAMILIES AND REDUCE PRICES FOR SUCH ESSENTIALS as BUYING A CAR, HEATING YOUR HOME AND RUNNING A BUSINESS.
THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION IS NOW REQUIRING CANADIAN VISITORS WHO STAY IN THE U.S. LONGER THAN 30 DAYS TO REGISTER WITH THE GOVERNMENT.
ACCORDING TO A new rule UPLOADED WEDNESDAY TO THE FEDERAL REGISTER — THOSE OLDER THAN 14 WILL ALSO NEED TO APPLY FOR FINGERPRINTING WITH AUTHORITIES… TIGHTENING A LAW THAT ALREADY EXISTED, BUT CANADIANS ARE USUALLY EXEMPT FROM.
ON HIS FIRST DAY IN OFFICE — PRESIDENT TRUMP SIGNED AN EXECUTIVE ORDER REQUIRING ALL PREVIOUSLY UNREGISTERED FOREIGN NATIONALS COMPLY WITH THE LAW.
UNDER THE ORDER, THOSE WHO DO NOT COMPLY WILL BE QUOTE “TREATED AS A CIVIL AND CRIMINAL ENFORCEMENT PRIORITY.”
DISAPPOINTMENT THIS MORNING ON THE GROUND AND IN SPACE, LAST NIGHT, SPACEX HAD TO DELAY A FLIGHT TO THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION TO bring home TWO AMERICAN ASTRONAUTS WHO HAVE BEEN STUCK THERE FOR NINE MONTHS.
THE SPACECRAFT WAS SET TO takeoff Wednesday FROM CAPE CANAVERAL, FLORIDA, WHEN MANAGERS SCRUBBED THE LAUNCH AFTER CONCERNS OR PROBLEMS WITH THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM. The new crew OF FOUR, WILL REPLACE Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams ON THE I-S-S.
THE FALCON ROCKET LIFTOFF MIGHT NOW TAKE PLACE ON FRIDAY FROM THE Kennedy Space Center.
LAST NIGHT, THE COUNTDOWN CLOCK WAS ALREADY TICKING WHEN ENGINEERS EVALUATED THE HYDRAULICS, USED TO RELEASE ONE OF THE TWO ARMS, clamping the rocket to its support structure. The structure needs to **tilt back**, before liftoff.
SPACEX THEN CANCELED THE LIFTOFF WITH LESS THAN ONE HOUR TO GO.
ASTRONAUTS FROM THE U.S., Japan and Russia will replace Wilmore and Williams, the American TEST PILOTS who HAVE BEEN STUCK on the space station SINCE JUNE, AFTER THE BOEING STARLINER EXPERIENCED MAJOR BREAKDOWNS AND HAD to RETURN TO EARTH, EMPTY.
SPACEX HAS TAKEN OVER THE RETURN LEG.
A TRIP THAT WAS TO LAST A WEEK FOR WILMORE AND WILLIAMS HAS TURNED INTO A MONTH TO MONTH SAGA ON HOW TO GET THEM HOME.
FINALLY THIS MORNING — AS SELECTION SUNDAY NEARS, THE BUBBLE IS ABOUT TO BURST FOR TEAMS HOPING TO MAKE it INTO THE NCAA BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS, KNOWN AS MARCH MADNESS.
AS MILLIONS OF AMERICANS GET READY TO FILL OUT THEIR BRACKETS, OR IN MANY CASES, A BUNCH OF THEM. IT’S BECOMING COMMON TO NOT ONLY PLAY FOR FUN, AT THE OFFICE, BUT TO ALSO – BET AND TRY TO **WIN BIG**. NOW, FEDERAL LAWMAKERS ARE LOOKING TO PROTECT THEM FROM GETTING IN TOO DEEP.
STRAIGHT ARROW NEWS POLITICAL CORRESPONDENT RAY BOGAN EXPLAINS HOW.
March Madness is less than a week away and if it’s anything like last year, Americans will place more than $2.5 billion in bets on the tournament. That’s why two members of Congress introduced the SAFE Bet Act, a bill to regulate online sports betting which they hope will save vulnerable Americans from addiction and financial turmoil.
“It’s important to balance public health with competing economic interests. Trust me, I understand that. But when every single solitary moment of every sporting event across the globe has become a betting opportunity in the palm of your hand, government must put its duty to protect its citizens from harm first.”
The SAFE Bet Act would require states offering sports betting to ensure operators meet minimum federal standards in three categories: marketing, affordability and artificial intelligence.
Sports books can’t run ads during live sporting events, and can’t run programs designed to induce gambling like bonuses or odds boosts.
Operators are prohibited from accepting more than five deposits from a customer in a 24-hour period.
Operators are required to conduct affordability checks before betting $1,000 in 24 hours or $10,000 in 30 days.
Credit card deposits will no longer be accepted.
Prohibits the use of AI to track gambling habits and offer individualized promotions.
Prohibits the use of AI to create gambling products, like microbets.
Bans prop bets on college and amateur sports.
Creates a national self-exclusion list through which people can voluntarily bar themselves from gambling.
The bill’s sponsors say it’s necessary because the amount of money Americans lose on bets increases every year. In 2024, the sports gambling industry made $14 billion in revenue.
“The reality is that $14 billion in revenue for the gambling industry is $14 billion extracted from the pockets of everyday Americans,” Tonko said. “And the even greater concern and the even greater reality is that most of that revenue is made off of the suffering of a disproportionately small number of gamblers.”
Gambling is considered an addictive product.
According to the Mayo Clinic, gambling can stimulate the brain’s reward system much like drugs or alcohol, leading to addiction.
Andrew Douglas is one of the estimated 7 million people in the U.S. who have a gambling problem or disorder. He began betting in college –– bets his father described as small and innocent. However, Douglas’ gambling got so out of hand that he tried to take his own life on May 27, 2024.
“Gambling addiction had a hold of me and had taken me to the darkest hole that I could ever imagine. For years and years, constantly being targeted and no way to escape the advertising, the offers, the predatory and targeted business practices.”
Although he’s now in recovery, Douglas’ addiction is still a source of pain for his family.
“This addiction was hidden from us because it can be done on a telephone at any hour of the day and night. There’s virtually no way to reach a safe time or place away from the possibilities of making a bet.”
The lawmakers say they do not want to stop sports betting. Rather, they are accusing the sports betting industry of exploiting addiction and purposefully driving people deeper into gambling abuse disorder.
“It’s a science. The algorithms, the artificial intelligence, are all tools to drive pitches and promotions at the losers, the most vulnerable, the people who are most susceptible to this addiction.”
The bill was introduced last year but it did not pass before the congressional term ended. Lawmakers are now starting the process again and have until January 2026 to get it approved.
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- More than half of American adults have used AI, according to a new study from Elon University. Women lead in AI usage at 53%, with 77% of younger adults (aged 18 to 29) and 66% of Hispanic Americans engaging with AI.
- The study finds 65% of users have had spoken conversations with AI, often several times a week, highlighting more personal interactions.
- Despite AI’s growing popularity, 63% of Americans believe AI will lead to social isolation, and 59% fear it will result in significant job losses.
Full Story
More than half of American adults have used AI, according to a new study from Elon University. The research finds that 52% of adults in the U.S. have engaged with large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot, and Gemini.
Women lead in AI usage, with 53% reporting they’ve used these tools. Among racial groups, 66% of Hispanic Americans have interacted with AI, followed by 57% of Black Americans and 47% of white Americans.
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The study highlights that AI use is most common among younger adults. Seventy-seven percent of people aged 18 to 29 have used AI chatbots, making them the dominant age group.
Household income also plays a role in adoption. People with incomes over $100,000 and those working full-time jobs are more likely to use AI regularly.
AI conversations are becoming more human-like
While widespread AI use isn’t surprising, the study finds that people interact with AI in more personal ways.
Sixty-five percent of users have engaged in spoken conversations with AI, and nearly half do so several times a week. This trend aligns with the rise of AI companion apps designed to offer emotional support.
AI companion apps are gaining popularity
Though not specifically mentioned in the study, AI companion apps have seen growing interest.
One of the most well-known is Replika, an AI chatbot that mimics romantic and companion relationships. It provides emotional support through text conversations and even offers video calls for paid users.
Another app, Kindroid, takes AI interactions further by allowing users to engage in group chats with multiple AI companions. It also features realistic voice interactions to make conversations feel more natural.
AI raises concerns about human connection and jobs
Despite AI’s rising popularity, many Americans worry about its impact.
The study finds that 63% of people believe AI will lead to social isolation by replacing human-to-human communication. Another 59% think LLMs will contribute to job losses in the future.
[KENNEDY FELTON]
A-I ISN’T JUST A TOOL… IT’S BECOMING A DAILY HABIT FOR MILLIONS OF AMERICANS.
AND A NEW STUDY IS REVEALING JUST HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE USING LARGE LANGUAGE MODELS LIKE CHAT G-P-T AND GEMINI.
BUT BEYOND SIMPLE SEARCHES AND QUICK RESPONSES… SOME USERS ARE EVEN FORMING DEEPER MORE HUMAN-LIKE INTERACTIONS WITH A-I.
AS FIRST REPORTED BY N-B-C NEWS… A NEW STUDY FROM ELON UNIVERSITY FINDS THAT 52-PERCENT OF AMERICAN ADULTS HAVE USED AN A-I LARGE LANGUAGE MODEL – INCLUDING CHAT G-P-T… CLAUDE… COPILOT AND GEMINI.
OF THAT GROUP… WOMEN EDGE OUT MEN IN USAGE AT 53-PERCENT.
BREAKING IT DOWN FURTHER BY DEMOGRAPHICS – 66-PERCENT OF HISPANIC AMERICANS USE A-I COMPARED TO 57-PERCENT OF BLACK AMERICANS AND 47-PERCENT OF WHITE AMERICANS.
YOUNGER ADULTS LEAD THE WAY… WITH 77-PERCENT OF 18 TO 29 YEAR OLDS USING A-I.
A-I USAGE IS ALSO HIGHER AMONG THOSE WITH HOUSEHOLD INCOMES OVER 100-THOUSAND DOLLARS AND PEOPLE WORKING FULL TIME JOBS.
IT MAY NOT SEEM SURPRISING THAT MORE THAN HALF OF ADULTS USE A-I… BUT WHAT IS* INTERESTING IS HOW PEOPLE ARE INTERACTING WITH IT.
THE STUDY FOUND THAT 65 PERCENT OF USERS HAVE HAD ‘SPOKEN CONVERSATIONS’ WITH A-I… AND MORE THAN A THIRD OF THEM DO SO SEVERAL TIMES A WEEK.
WHILE CHAT G-P-T WAS THE MOST POPULAR TOOL AMONG THE PARTICIPANTS IN THE STUDY… FINDINGS AT ELON UNIVERSITY ALIGN WITH THE RISE OF A-I COMPANION APPS – WHICH WEREN’T SPECIFICALLY MENTIONED IN THE RESEARCH.. BUT ONES THAT *ARE GAINING ATTENTION.
ONE OF THE MOST WELL KNOWN IS REPLIKA… A CHATBOT DESIGNED FOR ROMANTIC OR COMPANION STYLE INTERACTIONS – PROVIDING EMOTIONAL SUPPORT THROUGH TEXT AND EVEN VIDEO CALLS FOR PRO USERS.
ANOTHER GROWING APP IS KINDROID… WHICH TAKES A-I COMPANIONSHIP FURTHER WITH GROUP CHATS WITH MULTIPLE A-I PERSONALITIES… AND REALISTIC VOICE INTERACTIONS.
SO WHILE A-I IS BECOMING MORE POPULAR AMONG AMERICAN ADULTS… IT’S ALSO RAISING CONCERNS.
THE SAME STUDY FOUND 63-PERCENT OF AMERICANS BELIEVE A-I WILL LEAD TO SOCIAL ISOLATION BY REDUCING HUMAN TO HUMAN COMMUNICATION.
AND 59-PERCENT FEAR IT WILL LEAD TO A SIGNIFICANT LOSS OF JOBS.
IM KF WITH SAN.
TO READ MORE ABOUT THIS STORY AND OTHERS… DOWNLOAD OUR APP OR VISIT SAN DOT COM TODAY.
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