Chicago suburb expands cash handouts as race-based reparations program faces major legal battle

As cities across the U.S. continue to experiment with direct cash transfers, a prominent Chicago suburb is extending its guaranteed income program while simultaneously defending a first-of-its-kind reparations initiative that pays Black residents $25,000.

Most popular baby names in US revealed: See the list

America’s top baby names for 2025 are out — with familiar favorites holding strong and a surprising newcomer breaking into the top 10.

Virginia Supreme Court strikes down Democrats' redistricting plan

The Virginia Supreme Court on Friday struck down a voter‑approved Democratic congressional redistricting plan, delivering a major setback to the party in a nationwide fight with Republicans for an edge in this year’s midterm elections.

Iran latest: US forces disable two Iranian vessels violating blockade

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) released video Friday of U.S. forces disabling two Iranian-flagged unladen oil tankers attempting to pull into an Iranian port in the Gulf of Oman in violation of the ongoing U.S. blockade.

Trump administration begins to release new UFO files to the public

The Pentagon on Friday released some never-before-seen images and video of Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) as part of a historical effort the Trump administration has vowed to declassify.

Measles case reported in Travis County; first for 2026

An unvaccinated man exposed to measles while traveling internationally is at the center of Travis County's first case of 2026, health officials say.

Texas youth camps reach agreement to relax fiber optic requirements

An agreement has been reached that will allow youth summer camps in Texas to operate this year despite not meeting all new safety requirements.

Iranian attack on Navy ships intercepted by US military

President Donald Trump spoke optimistically about the progress of peace negotiations with Iran, telling reporters Wednesday afternoon that the U.S. has had "very good talks" with the country’s leadership over the previous 24 hours. 

Former USPS supervisor pleads guilty to stealing $369K in checks from mail

A former U.S. Postal Service supervisor in St. Louis has pleaded guilty to stealing 89 checks from the mail and giving them to an accomplice.

Court reinstates pause on Texas THC ban for another week

Lawyers for the state filed an appeal Tuesday against last week's ruling that extended the pause on the smokable hemp ban.

Texas man saves teenager’s prom night with a quick lesson in tying a necktie

A moment of pre-prom panic turned into a heartwarming display of community spirit Thursday after a Plano man stepped in to help a teenager struggling with his necktie.