Judge says feds must fund child care subsidies in 5 states for now
A federal judge says the Trump administration must keep the money flowing for now for programs aimed at helping low-income families with children in five states.
Child Care
Most families don't earn nearly enough to afford child care, study finds
"Child care costs are just incredibly daunting for all but the wealthiest Americans," one financial expert said.
Mamdani marks 1 week as New York City mayor
Thursday marks exactly one week since Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City's mayor. Jason Beeferman, New York state politics reporter for Politico, joins CBS News to dive into Mamdani's first days in office.
Records reveal Minnesota's long history with day care fraud warnings
Audits completed in the past 10 years show that Minnesota has lacked the teeth to properly vet attendance records and go after possible fraudsters proactively.
Fallout grows over freezing of child care funds
After the Trump administration paused federal assistance to child care centers in Minnesota, parents are now wondering if their kids' day care is in jeopardy, as the government investigates fraud claims. Jonah Kaplan has been following this developing story.
Day care in Minneapolis vandalized after viral video purporting fraud
A Minneapolis day care says that vandals damaged the facility early this week, after a YouTube video purporting to expose fraud among day cares in the Twin Cities metro area went viral.
Latest on Minnesota fraud allegations
The Department of Health and Human Services has frozen child care payments to the state of Minnesota as it investigates fraud allegations. The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee is set to hold a Jan. 7 hearing that will include testimony from Minnesota GOP state lawmakers who have investigated public assistance fraud. Jonah Kaplan and Aaron Navarro have the latest.
Child care costs more than the rent in dozens of U.S. cities
In some metro areas, child care expenses amount to more than double what families spend on rent, LendingTree found.
Rural child care providers join up to stay open
Nearly 4 million children in the United States can't get into a licensed child care center, costing states about $1 billion per year in lost economic activity from parents missing work or stepping away from jobs to support their families. Jonathan Vigliotti reports from rural Nebraska, where one community pooled its resources into one central location.
Dealing with the crushing costs of child care
For some, the high cost of child care in the U.S. is a higher expense than rents and mortgages, or even in-state college tuition, and has pushed tens of thousands of women out of the workforce this year alone.
New Mexico will become first state to offer free universal child care next week
New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, who championed the new initiative, told CBS News it would save families an average of $12,000 a year.
New Mexico families will soon have free child care
Parents in New Mexico will no longer have to pay for child care starting next week, regardless of their income, making the Land of Enchantment the first state in the nation to offer free universal child care. Janet Shamlian reports.
A Flint program that gives new mothers cash could be a model for rest of U.S.
A bipartisan program in Michigan aims to address the high costs of parenting by giving mothers thousands of dollars in cash with no strings attached.
Officials urge health tests for 1,200 kids as care worker charged with rape
A 26-year-old child care worker in Australia was charged with dozens of counts of rape and child abuse, sparking an effort to find other potential victims.
Here are the most and least expensive U.S. cities for raising a child
The average cost of raising a child in the U.S. is $26,000 per year, although in some cities expenses can run even higher, analysis finds.
Tax cuts, extensions in Trump budget bill
President Trump's so-called "big, beautiful" bill includes tax cuts and extensions, and a proposal to create $1,000 "Trump accounts" for babies born during his second administration. Ann-Margaret Carrozza, an asset protection attorney and former assemblywoman, discusses.
Detroit-based organization leads fights for Black mothers
During Black Maternal Health Week, a national campaign to raise awareness and improve outcomes for Black mothers, the Detroit-based organization Mothering Justice is spotlighting what happens when advocacy turns into action.
East Palo Alto mom launches daycare with hopes of putting dent into childcare crisis
As the crisis of not enough childcare resources continues in California, one Bay Area mom is hoping to bridge that gap with a daycare out of her home.
Child care can cost more than families pay for rent, mortgage, college
In some parts of the U.S., parents pay more than $30,000 annually for infant care at a center, federal data shows.
What does financial success look like?
According to a new survey from financial service company Empower, Gen Z Americans believe it takes a salary of $588,000 to be considered financially successful. That's more than double the figure from other generations. CBS News MoneyWatch correspondent Kelly O'Grady joins to unpack the findings.
China halts foreign adoptions
Last month, China announced that it would end foreign adoptions of Chinese children to foreign families other than to blood relatives. Parent Aimee Welch joins CBS News to discuss her ongoing struggle to adopt her potential daughter.
Trump and Harris campaigns react to VP debate
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Ohio Sen. JD Vance faced off in the only scheduled vice presidential debate Tuesday, hosted by CBS News. CBS News' Major Garrett, Nancy Cordes, Robert Costa, Ed O'Keefe and Caitlin Huey-Burns give their post-debate analysis and share how the Trump and Harris campaigns are reacting.
Walz and Vance address child care concerns
During Tuesday's VP debate, CBS News chief foreign affairs correspondent and "Face the Nation" moderator Margaret Brennan asked Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Ohio Sen. JD Vance about how their administrations would approach child care issues, the paid family leave model and more.
What Harris, Trump say about helping families with child care costs
Soaring child care costs are a major financial drain on millions of U.S. families. Here's what the Harris and Trump campaigns say they would do to address it.
Harris and Trump push for Child Tax Credit hike
Government figures show it now costs more than $300,000 to raise a child from birth to age 18. Since 1997, the federal child tax credit has been helping parents save a little bit of that money. Now, both the Harris and Trump campaigns are proposing supersized versions of the tax break. Nancy Cordes reports.
Live
Trump signs funding bill to end shutdown after package clears House
The House on Tuesday voted 217 to 214 to fund major parts of the government and end the partial shutdown. Follow live updates.
Ransom note being investigated in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, sheriff says
The sheriff says the note was sent to a local Arizona news station, which agreed not to report on it, following the disappearance of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie.
Clintons will testify in Epstein probe after contempt threat, House panel says
Hillary Clinton will appear for a deposition on Feb. 26, while former President Bill Clinton will appear on Feb. 27, according to the House Oversight Committee.
Watchdog shares whistleblower complaint involving Gabbard with Congress after delay
The complaint was closed administratively by the intelligence community inspector general's office in June 2025, under prior leadership, watchdog says.
Blood found inside home of Savannah Guthrie's mother, source says
Investigators are combing through the house of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy, in search of clues to the 84-year-old's disappearance.
Judge skeptical of Pentagon's efforts to punish Sen. Kelly over "illegal orders" video
A federal judge expressed skepticism over the Pentagon's effort to downgrade the pay and rank of Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly after he urged service members not to follow unlawful military orders.
Jill Biden's ex-husband charged with murder of his 2nd wife, police say
The man whom Jill Biden divorced for the eventual 46th President of the United States is now in jail on murder charges.
U.S. shoots down Iranian drone that approached aircraft carrier, military says
U.S. Central Command said the drone "aggressively" approached the USS Abraham Lincoln as it was crossing through the Arabian Sea.
NASA hopes to fix Artemis II moon rocket leak with on-pad repair
NASA plans to test the planned leak repair with a second dress rehearsal fueling test later this month.
U.S.
More U.S.
Ransom note being investigated in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, sheriff says
The sheriff says the note was sent to a local Arizona news station, which agreed not to report on it, following the disappearance of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie.
Judge restricts use of tear gas, projectile munitions at Portland protests
The ruling comes just days after federal agents launched tear gas at a crowd of demonstrators, including young children, that local officials described as peaceful.
Power outages collide with boil-water advisories after winter storm
In Mississippi, more than 36,000 homes and businesses have now gone a second week without electricity after a historic winter storm.
Sen. Mitch McConnell hospitalized with "flu-like symptoms"
A spokesman for Sen. Mitch McConnell said the Kentucky Republican's "prognosis is positive."
Lawyers for alleged Charlie Kirk killer again ask to have prosecutors removed
Tyler Robinson's attorneys want the entire Utah County Attorney's Office disqualified because one of the prosecutors has a daughter who was present at the rally where Kirk was shot.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
More companies are pointing to AI as they lay off employees
Although economists have generally downplayed the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs, some employers are highlighting their adoption of AI.
SBA shuts out non-U.S. citizens from its main lending program
Starting March 1, the SBA will no longer guarantee loans for small businesses owned by foreign nationals, including green card holders.
PepsiCo cuts prices of Cheetos, Doritos and other snacks
PepsiCo said the price cuts are aimed at making its products more affordable as consumers struggle with affordability.
Disney names parks chief Josh D'Amaro to succeed CEO Bob Iger
Josh D'Amaro, who oversees Disney theme parks and dozens of resort hotels worldwide, will become the next Disney CEO.
Consumer Reports' top 10 vehicles for 2026 — see which cars made the list
For the first time, the top 10 cars on Consumer Reports' annual list of best new vehicles also include electric or hybrid models.
Politics
More Politics
Judge restricts use of tear gas, projectile munitions at Portland protests
The ruling comes just days after federal agents launched tear gas at a crowd of demonstrators, including young children, that local officials described as peaceful.
Sen. Mitch McConnell hospitalized with "flu-like symptoms"
A spokesman for Sen. Mitch McConnell said the Kentucky Republican's "prognosis is positive."
Judge skeptical of Pentagon's efforts to punish Sen. Kelly over "illegal orders" video
A federal judge expressed skepticism over the Pentagon's effort to downgrade the pay and rank of Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly after he urged service members not to follow unlawful military orders.
Trump suggests Republicans should nationalize voting
President Trump has continued to claim without evidence that there is widespread fraud in U.S. elections.
Watchdog shares whistleblower complaint involving Gabbard with Congress after delay
The complaint was closed administratively by the intelligence community inspector general's office in June 2025, under prior leadership, watchdog says.
HealthWatch
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Officials warn against drinking raw milk after baby dies from listeria
The New Mexico Department of Health said officials believe the baby contracted listeria after their mother drank raw milk during pregnancy.
5 ways to find affordable care without health insurance
Many Americans are expected to lose ACA or Medicaid coverage in the coming months and years, but doctors and researchers say there are still ways to find affordable care.
When health insurance costs more than the mortgage
As health care costs skyrocket and federal lawmakers pull back help on ACA insurance premiums, more middle-income families are facing tough choices on health care.
Extended Interview: Mel Robbins
In this web exclusive, author and podcaster Mel Robbins talks with Norah O'Donnell about "The Let Them Theory."
Book excerpt: "The Let Them Theory" by Mel Robbins
In her latest bestseller, the motivational speaker discusses how personal growth is only possible when you stop pouring energy into things you cannot control – which includes changing other people.
World
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Boat crew tosses 115 kilos of cocaine in Pacific while fleeing Colombian navy
The seizure was announced on the same day that Colombian President Gustavo Petro met with President Trump at the White House.
Russia hammers Ukraine on eve of peace talks
A day before Russian, Ukrainian and U.S. teams meet to talk peace, Putin's forces pounded Ukraine's energy infrastructure with dozens of drones and missiles.
U.S. shoots down Iranian drone that approached aircraft carrier, military says
U.S. Central Command said the drone "aggressively" approached the USS Abraham Lincoln as it was crossing through the Arabian Sea.
As Iran and the U.S. eye talks, a protester asks Trump to "keep his word"
As Iran declares willingness to negotiate with the U.S., a woman who joined the recent protests says Iranians want their leaders out, and they want the U.S. to help.
Teen from Alabama among 3 junior hockey players killed in Canada crash
Caden Fine, 17, from Birmingham, Alabama, and two of his teammates were killed when their vehicle collided with a semi-truck in Canada.
Entertainment
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Ransom note being investigated in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, sheriff says
The sheriff says the note was sent to a local Arizona news station, which agreed not to report on it, following the disappearance of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie.
Activists on inspiring next generation
Activist Gloria Steinem, who has fought for the rights of every woman, is on a mission to inspire the next generation. She is collaborating with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Leymah Gbowee, who helped end the civil war in Liberia, on a new children's book. They talk to "CBS Mornings" about their experiences in their fight for equality and deciding to collaborate.
Westminster dog show winners on preparation
Three former winners of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and their handlers join "CBS Mornings" ahead of this year's Best in Show title being awarded Tuesday. They talk about how they prepared to compete and what retirement is like now.
Gabrielle Union talks new film "Goat"
Gabrielle Union talks about starring in the new animated movie "Goat," working with her husband and the real life issues portrayed in the movie.
Disney names parks chief Josh D'Amaro to succeed CEO Bob Iger
Josh D'Amaro, who oversees Disney theme parks and dozens of resort hotels worldwide, will become the next Disney CEO.
Technology
More Technology
More companies are pointing to AI as they lay off employees
Although economists have generally downplayed the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs, some employers are highlighting their adoption of AI.
Tech executive breaks down AI agents
Scott Hanselman, vice president of developer community at Microsoft, joins CBS News to explain the difference between an LLM like ChatGPT and an AI agent. He also explains how AI agents could become assertive if given too much access.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
AI agents are using a social media platform
Moltbook, a social media platform for AI agents to interact, is growing. The Verge senior AI reporter Hayden Field joins CBS News with more details.
Inside the new social media platform for AI
Moltbook was launched last week by a software developer and mirrors the template of Reddit, but it's not for humans. Instead, it allows artificial intelligence agents to post written content and interact with other chatbots through comments, up-votes and down-votes. Tyler Cowen, professor of economics at George Mason University, joins CBS News to discuss.
Science
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Scientists "quite surprised" to find one polar bear population thriving
After decades monitoring polar bears in Norway's far north, researchers say the animals have proven incredibly adaptable, but there are no guarantees for the future.
Mysterious dark matter seen in new map of distant galaxies
Dark matter doesn't absorb or give off light so scientists can't study it directly. But they can observe how its gravity warps and bends the star stuff around it.
Cow develops technique to scratch herself
"CBS Saturday Morning" learns more about Veronika, the clever cow who figured out multiple ways to scratch herself with a broom. It was the first time a cow was seen using a tool.
Almanac: January 18
"Sunday Morning" looks back at historical events on this date.
Fossils found at Dinosaur National Monument, first excavation in 100 years
The Dinosaur National Monument, which is located on the border between Colorado and Utah, was last excavated in 1924.
Crime
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Ransom note being investigated in Nancy Guthrie's disappearance, sheriff says
The sheriff says the note was sent to a local Arizona news station, which agreed not to report on it, following the disappearance of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie.
Lawyers for alleged Charlie Kirk killer again ask to have prosecutors removed
Tyler Robinson's attorneys want the entire Utah County Attorney's Office disqualified because one of the prosecutors has a daughter who was present at the rally where Kirk was shot.
Details on Nancy Guthrie ransom note
The Pima County sheriff tells CBS News that they received a ransom note related to the apparent abduction of Nancy Guthrie. CBS News' Andres Gutierrez and Anna Schecter have more.
Study finds significant crime decrease in 2025
A new study from the Council on Criminal Justice finds that crime rates are dropping across the U.S., with some areas reaching their lowest levels in decades in 2025. Alex Piquero, professor of criminology at the University of Miami, joins to assess the findings.
Clintons push to testify publicly on Epstein
Bill and Hillary Clinton will testify before lawmakers behind closed doors later in February about convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The House Oversight Committee was preparing to hold them in contempt for refusing to appear. CBS News justice correspondent Scott MacFarlane reports.
Space
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Space
What led NASA to delay Artemis II launch
NASA's first crewed moon mission in more than 50 years has been delayed until March at the earliest. During a routine dress rehearsal of the launch, persistent liquid hydrogen leaks were discovered in the Artemis II rocket. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood breaks it down.
NASA hopes to fix Artemis II moon rocket leak with on-pad repair
NASA plans to test the planned leak repair with a second dress rehearsal fueling test later this month.
NASA delays Artemis II launch
NASA delayed the Artemis II moon rocket launch after a hydrogen leak was found during a wet dress rehearsal, the agency announced Tuesday. CBS News senior space consultant Bill Harwood has the latest.
NASA begins mission to map the boundaries of our heliosphere
A NASA mission is underway to map the heliosphere, which is a huge protective bubble around the solar system that was created by the sun.
NASA moon launch off until March due to issues during tests
NASA says it can't try until March at the earliest to send a crewed spacecraft on a flight around the moon and back, due to hydrogen leaks during testing of the Artemis II rocket.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Teen boy recalls grueling swim to save family
A 13-year-old boy is credited with saving the lives of his mother and two younger siblings with an hourslong swim after the family was swept out to sea off the Australian coast. Tony Dokoupil has the story.
Leaks delay Artemis II moon mission until March
NASA announced the long-awaited flight to send four astronauts on a trip around the moon was being delayed to March after a test launch ran into a variety of problems and ultimately was called off. Mark Strassmann reports.
First on CBS
Extended: Jane Doe in R. Kelly trial speaks
Reshona Landfair, who testified as Jane Doe at R. Kelly's 2022 federal trial, speaks to Jericka Duncan in her first TV interview about her new memoir, "Who's Watching Shorty?". Kelly is now behind bars after being convicted of racketeering and sex crimes in two separate federal trials in 2021 and 2022. But Kelly's legal troubles started long before that, including when a tape that he had filmed performing sex acts on a 14-year-old girl — now identified as Landfair — leaked in 2001.
Renee Good's brothers testify on Capitol Hill
Renee Good's brothers were among several people who testified on Capitol Hill about federal agents and their use of force. Nicole Sganga has the latest.
Federal presence in Bay Area for Super Bowl
Some Bay Area residents are concerned that there will be an increase in federal agents focused on immigration enforcement ahead of Super Bowl LX. CBS News correspondent Nidia Cavazos has the details.