Michael McKee, 39, has been arrested in Illinois and charged with two counts of murder in the fatal shootings of Ohio dentist Spencer Tepe and his wife, Monique Tepe. McKee is identified as Monique's ex-husband, with authorities apprehending him without incident. The couple was discovered dead from apparent gunshot wounds in their Columbus home on December 30, while their two young children were found unharmed inside. Investigators noted no weapons at the scene and no signs of forced entry. This arrest follows the release of surveillance footage showing a person of interest near the victims' residence, and court records reveal a prior 911 call from the address regarding a domestic dispute.

10/100

Andover, Mass.-based Covenant Health has confirmed that a cyberattack, initially detected in May 2025, may have impacted nearly 500,000 patients, a substantial increase from the fewer than 8,000 initially reported. A ransomware group claimed responsibility for the incident, which compromised sensitive data including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, health insurance details, and treatment information. Covenant Health is now mailing notification letters to affected patients and offering complimentary credit monitoring and identity theft protection services for those whose Social Security numbers were involved. This incident underscores the challenges in assessing the full scope of healthcare data breaches, as large networks and third-party vendors can complicate forensic analysis and delay accurate impact figures.

30/100

US President Donald Trump has called for at least $100 billion in oil industry spending for Venezuela, following the US military operation that led to the capture of its former leader, Nicolas Maduro. Trump stated that the US would manage the oil sales and directly oversee investments, aiming to lower global energy prices. However, executives from major US oil firms, including Exxon, expressed significant reservations at a White House meeting, with Exxon's CEO Darren Woods declaring Venezuela "uninvestable" given past asset seizures and the current instability. Industry analysts echoed this skepticism, highlighting the need for substantial political stability, legal certainty, and a competitive fiscal framework before such large-scale investments would materialize, suggesting that any immediate new capital inflows would likely be far more modest than Trump's ambitious figure. (not investment advice)

40/100

A 24-year-old suspect, Daricka M. Moore, has been taken into custody following a devastating spree of shootings that resulted in six fatalities in Clay County, Mississippi. Sheriff Eddie Scott reported that the victims, all identified as family members related to the suspect, were shot at three distinct locations late Friday evening. Among the deceased was a 7-year-old child, an act the sheriff described as incomprehensible in terms of motive. Moore currently faces a first-degree murder charge, which may be elevated to capital murder, with the possibility of additional murder charges as the investigation progresses. Authorities have reassured the public that the community is no longer under threat, but the profound tragedy of the event remains.

10/100

A protester scaled the balcony of the Iranian embassy in west London, removing the Iranian flag, during a large demonstration by hundreds of anti-government activists. This event highlights the global reach of the protests that erupted in Iran on December 28 over economic grievances, which have now escalated into widespread calls for an end to the Islamic Republic and even the restoration of the monarchy. Human rights groups report at least 50 protesters have been killed, with an internet blackout making verification difficult. Metropolitan Police made two arrests at the London protest for aggravated trespass and assault, emphasizing efforts to manage the gathering safely while international leaders condemn the violence against demonstrators.

35/100

President Trump has publicly urged credit card companies to implement a temporary cap on interest rates at 10% for one year, effective January 20, 2026. This proposal, articulated on Truth Social, aims to address the significant burden of consumer credit card debt, which currently averages over 20% and reached a record $1.23 trillion last year. The idea has garnered bipartisan support from lawmakers who believe it would assist millions of Americans struggling financially. However, banking industry groups oppose the measure, cautioning that a rate cap could force lenders to restrict credit access for many borrowers, particularly those deemed higher risk, potentially driving them towards less regulated and more predatory lending options. (not investment advice)

50/100

Medical personnel at three Iranian hospitals have reported being overwhelmed by a high influx of dead and injured patients as anti-government protests enter their 14th day. Accounts from Tehran indicate "horrible scenes" with direct gunshot wounds to the heads and hearts of young individuals, leading to morgues exceeding capacity and bodies being stored in prayer rooms. An eye hospital in the capital has entered crisis mode, with non-urgent services suspended to manage the surge of emergency cases, many involving eye injuries from shotgun pellets. These harrowing descriptions, obtained despite a near-total internet blackout and reporting restrictions, highlight the severe and escalating human cost of the ongoing government crackdown against the widespread demonstrations.

15/100

Adam Johnson, a Florida resident previously convicted and later pardoned by Donald Trump for his involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot, has announced his candidacy for a Republican at-large seat on the Manatee County commission. Johnson, famously photographed carrying then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s lectern, filed his candidacy on the fifth anniversary of the riot, leveraging the viral image as his campaign logo. He had pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor, serving 75 days in prison, and now claims he only regrets the sentence, not exercising his First Amendment rights. Johnson, who previously sued the county over unrelated matters, aims to address high property taxes and overdevelopment, anticipating intense scrutiny during his campaign.

45/100

Democratic Representatives Ilhan Omar, Angie Craig, and Kelly Morrison were blocked from fully accessing an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center in Minneapolis, despite initially being granted entry. This denial occurred amidst ongoing protests sparked by the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent in the city. Representative Omar condemned the action as a "blatant attempt to obstruct members of Congress from doing their oversight duties," referencing a federal judge's prior ruling that prohibits the Trump administration from barring such visits. The congressional members reported that ICE officials cited the facility's funding source, the Big Beautiful Bill Act, as justification for rescinding their access, intensifying the political dispute surrounding federal immigration operations and accountability in Minnesota.

40/100

Former Premier League goalkeeper Shay Given has issued an "unreserved" apology for using the phrase "absolute Holocaust" to characterize Wilfried Nancy's brief and unsuccessful 33-day tenure as Celtic manager on the BBC program Final Score. Given, 49, made the insensitive remark while providing commentary on Nancy's eight games in charge of the Scottish champions, specifically referring to his initial week. The use of such a term, deeply associated with historical tragedy and genocide, drew immediate and widespread criticism for its profound inappropriateness in a sports context. Given's apology aims to address the significant offense and distress caused by his regrettable choice of words during the live broadcast.

50/100

An arrest warrant has been issued in New Mexico for Emmy Award-winning actor and director Timothy Busfield, who faces two counts of criminal sexual contact of a minor. An investigator with the Albuquerque Police Department filed a criminal complaint detailing a child's report of being inappropriately touched by Busfield multiple times on the set of "The Cleaning Lady." The alleged incidents occurred when the child was 7 and 8 years old, between November 2022 and spring 2024, as reported by the child's mother to Child Protective Services. The child has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety, reportedly having nightmares and fearing to disclose the abuse due to Busfield's position as director. Warner Bros. conducted its own investigation but was unable to corroborate the allegations.

5/100

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is navigating a complex array of international crises, including the US intervention in Venezuela, President Trump's threats regarding Greenland, and the ongoing war in Ukraine, all while facing domestic political pressure. Merz adopted a cautious stance on the US capture of Nicolas Maduro, prioritizing a stable peace agreement for Ukraine that requires US support. He also joined other EU leaders in asserting Denmark's sovereignty over Greenland in response to Trump's acquisition claims. Domestically, Merz's approval ratings are low, partly due to perceived inadequate communication and a strong focus on foreign policy. In response, he has replaced his office manager to enhance economic expertise and improve the Chancellery's internal communication and prioritization of tasks.

45/100

Wall Street experienced a strong start to 2026, with the S&P 500 reaching a record high, despite uncertainty from President Trump's Truth Social posts and the Venezuela intervention. Weaker-than-expected December job growth bolstered arguments for Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. Trump's announcements included banning large investors from buying homes and increasing the defense budget, alongside ordering mortgage bond purchases. Jim Cramer advised caution due to early-year market patterns, though the Club made small, calculated trades, including offloading BlackRock and Solstice Advanced Materials. Nvidia and CrowdStrike saw mixed reactions to company news, with Nvidia dipping despite positive developments. (not investment advice)

65/100

Minneapolis continues to be a focal point of protests following the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent, with city officials noting that the majority of demonstrations have remained peaceful despite 30 arrests for property damage and blocking roadways. The controversy deepened when three Minnesota House members, including Ilhan Omar, reported being denied full access to a federal ICE facility, prompting accusations of obstructing congressional oversight. Newly obtained cellphone video, purportedly from the agent who fired, captures Good saying "I'm not mad at you" just moments before shots are heard as her vehicle attempts to drive away. This footage and the ongoing dispute over access highlight the intense public scrutiny and calls for transparency surrounding the federal immigration enforcement operation.

30/100

Anti-government protests in Iran have escalated significantly, with an external rights group reporting at least 65 fatalities, including security personnel, as demonstrations spread across over 180 cities. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused President Trump of inciting "violent subversive acts," while Trump reiterated strong support for the protesters and warned of potential US intervention if the regime continues to kill demonstrators. Iran's judiciary chief has vowed "decisive" and "maximum" punishment, labeling protesters as "enemies of God," setting the stage for a severe crackdown. A nationwide internet blackout has made it incredibly difficult to verify the full extent of the unrest and the government's response, although reports from inside the country describe hospitals overwhelmed with casualties.

15/100

Two individuals, Tatiyanna Foster and Auriona Lewis, have been arrested in connection with a widespread counterfeit bill scam targeting numerous In-N-Out Burger restaurants throughout Southern California. The suspects allegedly used fake $100 bills to make small purchases, such as a $2.53 order of fries, at dozens of locations across Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties. Lewis has been charged with felony counterfeiting and grand theft, though her public defender raised concerns about the disproportionate felony charges against Black individuals. In-N-Out's Chief Operations Officer praised law enforcement for their efforts in identifying and apprehending the suspects, underscoring the business's appreciation for their role in protecting communities from such fraudulent activities.

60/100

The Washington National Opera has announced its departure from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, its home for over 50 years, citing a new business model that mandates full upfront funding for productions. This policy conflicts with the opera's typical funding mix of ticket sales, grants, and donations, which cannot be secured years in advance, and also challenges its artistic mission to balance mainstream and experimental works. This significant exit is the latest in a series of cancellations and departures by artists and companies since Donald Trump became the center's board chairman and his name was controversially added to the institution. The move reflects growing concerns within the arts community about the politicization of the national cultural center.

35/100

Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother of three and recent widow, was fatally shot by a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis, an event that has ignited national outrage. Her father described her as a warm, witty, and compassionate individual who had recently relocated to Minneapolis to rebuild her life after her first husband's death. Good, a US citizen and legal observer, was not an ICE target. The Congressional Equality Caucus has demanded a full, transparent investigation into her death, which occurred after she dropped her 6-year-old son at school. Her wife, present during the shooting, shared a statement emphasizing Renee's profound kindness and belief in mutual love and care, with a GoFundMe campaign raising nearly $500,000 for her family.

5/100

Residents in North St. Louis, Missouri, have reported sightings of multiple vervet monkeys freely roaming the city streets, prompting an investigation by the Department of Health. Justen Hauser, environmental health bureau chief, confirmed the presence of more than one monkey and stated that partner agencies equipped for safe capture are engaged. The St. Louis Zoo identified the primates as vervet monkeys, a species common in East Africa often viewed as pests due to their tendency to raid food sources. The origin of these monkeys remains unknown, but exotic animals are strictly prohibited as pets in St. Louis. Authorities have issued a warning to the public not to approach the intelligent but potentially unpredictable animals, instead advising them to report sightings to a designated hotline.

70/100

US prosecutors have unveiled a 25-page indictment against Nicolas Maduro, the recently captured Venezuelan leader, accusing him of operating a state-sponsored drug terror network for an extended period. The indictment details allegations that Maduro collaborated with the Venezuelan criminal gang Tren de Aragua, the Colombian FARC guerrilla group, and the Mexican Sinaloa cartel to smuggle cocaine into the US, thereby enriching himself personally. It further claims that Venezuela was systematically transformed into a central hub for international cocaine trafficking, even utilizing state aircraft and the presidential hangar for drug transport. Maduro, who pleaded "not guilty" and asserted he is a "prisoner of war of the United States," is currently awaiting trial in Brooklyn, facing charges that the US has pursued for years. (not investment advice)

30/100

Three men have been arrested in South Benfleet, Essex, after five emergency responders were injured in a secondary crash while attending an initial single-vehicle collision. A paramedic and an off-duty police officer sustained serious injuries and remain hospitalized after being struck by a white Ford Transit van. The arrested individuals, aged 23, 29, and 39, face multiple charges, including causing serious injury by dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle, and driving while unfit through drink or drugs. Essex Police have launched a full investigation, appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage, with Chief Superintendent Morgan Cronin extending thoughts and support to the injured workers and their families during this challenging time.

15/100

Morocco and Israel have significantly deepened their military cooperation, formalizing a joint "work plan" for 2026 at their third Joint Military Committee meeting in Tel Aviv. This strategic alliance, established five years ago under the US-brokered Abraham Accords, now extends beyond arms imports to include joint development of drones, air defense systems, and potential satellite technology. Morocco, a substantial global arms importer, has positioned Israel as its third-largest supplier, primarily for air defense and unmanned systems. This enhanced partnership carries notable regional implications, particularly exacerbating tensions with Algeria over the Western Sahara, while Israel also eyes substantial economic interests in Morocco's agricultural sector and phosphate deposits.

55/100

President Trump prematurely disclosed December's US jobs data on Truth Social, hours before the Department of Labor's official release, a report with significant financial market implications. The White House acknowledged this as an "inadvertent public disclosure of aggregate data," which matched the later-released figures showing a cooling in hiring with 50,000 jobs added. Such early release violates strict embargo protocols designed to prevent unfair trading advantages and maintain investor confidence. While initial analysis found no evident market disruption, the incident has prompted a review of White House procedures for handling economic data. Experts warn that premature disclosures, even if unintentional, can erode trust in market fairness and the integrity of government economic reporting. (not investment advice)

40/100

A multi-day power blackout in Berlin, triggered by an arson attack that plunged 45,000 households into darkness and cold, has starkly revealed vulnerabilities in Germany's critical infrastructure and disaster response protocols. Both affected residents and experts criticized authorities for a delayed recognition of the crisis's scale and the late declaration of a state of emergency. This incident has spurred other German states to re-evaluate their disaster preparedness plans, with some allocating funds for new crisis management departments. Experts contend that decades of underinvestment in critical infrastructure protection have left Germany susceptible, advocating for a paradigm shift towards proactive planning and enhanced public preparedness, acknowledging that such disruptions are inevitable and require robust, efficient responses.

40/100

A significant jurisdictional dispute has erupted between federal, state, and municipal officials regarding the investigation into the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer in Minneapolis. The Trump administration assigned sole jurisdiction to the FBI, effectively excluding state and local law enforcement from accessing crucial evidence and interviews, a decision strongly criticized by Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison are proceeding with collecting witness videos and statements for a potential state-level prosecution, challenging US Vice President JD Vance's assertion of "absolute immunity" for the federal agent. This escalating conflict underscores deep-seated tensions over federal law enforcement oversight and accountability.

30/100

The Trump administration has announced the suspension of $129 million in federal benefit payments to Minnesota, citing allegations of widespread fraud and demanding a comprehensive justification for all federal spending in the state since January 2025. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins accused Minnesota's governor and Minneapolis's mayor of failing to adequately address the alleged fraud, which has notably targeted the state's Somali population. Minneapolis officials condemned the action as a politically motivated stunt, while Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison immediately vowed to challenge the decision in court. This suspension follows previous actions by Trump against Somali migrants and ongoing FBI investigations into large-scale fraud schemes, further escalating political tensions and scrutiny over federal funding in the state. (not investment advice)

30/100

The United States envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, has urged both the Syrian government and Kurdish authorities to "return to dialogue" following days of deadly clashes in Aleppo that resulted in at least 22 deaths and displaced over 140,000 people. Barrack met with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to discuss the future of Syria's transition, emphasizing President Trump's vision for a unified nation where all communities are afforded respect and participation. Trump also agreed to lift sanctions to provide Syria a chance to move forward. The violence erupted after negotiations to merge their respective forces into the national army failed, with both factions accusing the other of initiating hostilities and targeting civilian areas, including hospitals.

40/100

US Vice President JD Vance and UK Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy have reached a consensus, stating that sexualized AI-generated deepfakes, especially those produced via Elon Musk's Grok on X, are "entirely unacceptable." Lammy reported that Vance, an AI enthusiast, expressed significant concern during their Washington meeting about the proliferation of "hyper-pornographied slop" online, particularly the manipulation of images of women and children. This agreement underscores a growing transatlantic dispute, with the UK Prime Minister threatening to block X if it fails to adhere to British laws. Although X has reportedly implemented some changes to Grok's settings, the ongoing discussion highlights urgent global concerns regarding AI ethics, content moderation, and the protection of vulnerable individuals online.

55/100

Following the Trump administration’s intervention in Venezuela, President Donald Trump and his senior aide Stephen Miller have escalated threats to seize Greenland, a territory belonging to Denmark. A panel on Washington Week With The Atlantic convened to discuss the profound implications of these actions for the United States’ relationships with its NATO allies. The discussion focused on deciphering Trump’s motivations and the various influences, from within his inner circle to media personalities, that shape his unpredictable foreign policy. This move has already prompted European leaders to issue statements underscoring the necessity of collective NATO security for Greenland, highlighting the strain on international laws and alliances in a perceived multipolar world.

40/100

Non-league Macclesfield achieved a stunning and historic 2-1 FA Cup upset against Premier League holders Crystal Palace, marking the greatest shock in the competition's long history by league difference. The victory was imbued with deep emotion, dedicated to their forward Ethan McLeod, who tragically died in a car accident in December, with his parents present at the game. Fans poured onto the pitch in celebration, hoisting captain Paul Dawson, whose bandaged head became an emblem of the team's resilience and fighting spirit. This triumph is particularly significant for Macclesfield, which reformed as a phoenix club in 2020 after ceasing trading and has since achieved three promotions, culminating in this unforgettable cup score.

90/100

A Ukrainian drone strike ignited a fire at an oil depot in Russia's southern Volgograd region, reportedly targeting fuel supplies for Russian forces. This action comes after Russia launched a substantial barrage of hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles, including a powerful new hypersonic Oreshnik missile, against Ukraine, causing significant disruptions to Kyiv's power and heating infrastructure. Ukrainian officials reported at least four fatalities in the capital, while Russia confirmed its forces struck Ukrainian energy facilities and fuel-storage depots. Both nations continue to escalate attacks on critical infrastructure, with Ukraine aiming to deplete Russian oil export revenues and Russia seeking to "weaponize winter" by denying Ukrainian civilians essential services amidst the ongoing conflict.

10/100

Arsenal manager Renee Slegers has expressed concern that time-wasting by goalkeepers in the Women's Super League (WSL) negatively impacts the "attractiveness" of the sport. Her remarks came after a 0-0 draw against Manchester United, where United's goalkeeper, Phallon Tullis-Joyce, received medical attention after a sending-off, which Slegers implied was used to allow her team to regroup. Slegers contends that such interruptions disrupt game momentum and diminish the entertainment value for the growing audience, both in stadiums and on television. While recognizing that teams will always seek to "stretch the rules," she advocates for potential rule adjustments to ensure the game remains dynamic and engaging, rather than being bogged down by strategic delays.

75/100

A rare copy of Action Comics No. 1, the 1938 comic that first introduced Superman to the world, has been sold to an anonymous collector for a record-breaking $15 million in a private sale. This sale significantly exceeds the previous record for a comic book, which was $9.12 million for a pristine Superman No. 1. Graded nine out of a possible ten points, this particular copy is one of fewer than 100 believed to still exist. Its value was further enhanced by its unique history, including being stolen from actor Nicolas Cage's home in 2000 and subsequently recovered over a decade later. The broker likened its journey to that of the Mona Lisa, solidifying its status as an icon of American pop culture.

85/100

Despite US efforts to influence global oil prices and impose sanctions, analysts contend that Russia's economy is unlikely to collapse, even with potential increases in Venezuelan oil production. While Western sanctions and a strengthening ruble have indeed reduced oil revenues, Russia's administration has effectively rewired its economy, primarily by increasing taxes on households and businesses to offset budget shortfalls. Economic growth, although modest, is projected to continue, and the nation maintains a low debt-to-GDP ratio and managed inflation. Experts emphasize that while sanctions inflict pain, Russia has largely insulated itself, enabling it to sustain funding for the Ukraine conflict in the short to medium term without facing immediate economic collapse. (not investment advice)

40/100

Donald Trump's foreign policy is characterized by its unpredictability, largely shaped by a disparate inner and outer circle of advisors whose influence often stems from self-interest rather than a cohesive ideology. Key figures such as Marco Rubio, serving as both Secretary of State and National Security Advisor, align with Trump's ambitions for hemispheric dominance and Venezuelan oil. However, other advisors like property developer Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner also play significant roles in Middle East and Ukraine policies, raising ethical questions about conflicts of interest. Critics contend that Trump's approach is primarily transactional, devoid of a consistent grand strategy, and his apparent readiness for military action, coupled with his invocation of the Monroe Doctrine, fuels concerns about a shift towards neocolonialism and the erosion of NATO's foundational principles.

35/100

As the new year commences, many individuals are focused on breaking ingrained bad habits and establishing healthier routines, with experts providing actionable strategies for achieving lasting change. Margaret Moore, founder of Wellcoaches Corporation, suggests replacing undesirable behaviors with positive alternatives, while neuroscientist Anne-Laure Le Cunff advocates for "tiny experiments" to gradually integrate new habits. Common targets for improvement include reducing excessive screen time, particularly before sleep, and overcoming "revenge bedtime" procrastination. Other aspirations involve re-engaging with reading, maintaining workout consistency, and managing social FOMO. Experts emphasize the importance of self-compassion and recognizing one's readiness for change, highlighting that sustainable habit transformation often stems from small, consistent efforts rather than overwhelming, unrealistic goals.

80/100

Unprecedented global demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM), a critical component for artificial intelligence chips used by companies like Nvidia and Google, has led to severe supply shortages and soaring prices. The three dominant memory vendors—Micron, SK Hynix, and Samsung—are struggling to keep pace, with average DRAM memory prices projected to increase by 50-55% this quarter, an "unprecedented" surge. HBM production is complex, requiring manufacturers to prioritize AI and server applications due to higher growth potential and less price-sensitive cloud providers. This "memory wall" bottleneck, where powerful GPUs await data, is driving chipmakers to innovate and expand production capacity, though Micron is already "sold out for 2026," indicating persistent shortages for the foreseeable future. (not investment advice)

60/100

As artificial intelligence increasingly reshapes the job market, both job candidates and existing workers must be prepared to articulate how they offer unique value beyond what AI can accomplish independently. Daniela Rus of MIT emphasizes that the fundamental question for roles is evolving from mere capability to how individuals can contribute distinct value that surpasses both AI and human-only efforts. Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari observes that AI is slowing hiring at major corporations while simultaneously yielding "real productivity gains." While concerns about AI-driven job displacement persist, experts suggest the technology primarily augments human skills, with early adopters reportedly delivering superior work and receiving higher compensation. This transition highlights a shift towards human-AI collaboration and the evolving demands on the workforce.

70/100