CBS Evening News, November 17, 2020
States impose new restrictions amid record coronavirus hospitalizations; Dolly Parton helped fund Moderna COVID-19 vaccine research.
COVID-19 Vaccine
Labs across U.S. test for COVID Omicron variant
The U.S. is sequencing 80,000 positive PCR tests per week to test for variants and learn how fast the variant is spreading — and how infectious it is.
Researchers race to assess Omicron variant
The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has been found in 20 countries so far. CBS news correspondent Errol Barnett reports on how U.S. officials are already preparing for the arrival of the new strain. Then, Dr. Marie-Elizabeth Ramas, a family medicine physician, joins CBSN to discuss protective measures against the variant and more.
CBS Evening News, December 21, 2020
Nations ban travel with Britain over more infectious COVID strain; "Season of Giving": Kindness becomes contagious among Minnesota strangers
WHO says people who are above 60 and unvaccinated should postpone travel
WHO named Omicron a variant of concern on Friday, and 56 countries issued travel restrictions in the following days.
Biden faces pressure on Omicron variant
President Joe Biden urged caution, but stressed this is not the time to panic during his remarks from the White House yesterday on the Omicron variant. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes joined CBSN with more on what the administration is doing in light of the new coronavirus strain.
Omicron coronavirus variant spreads globally
The U.S. is barring travelers from several African countries in a bid to slow the spread of the Omicron coronavirus variant first identified in South Africa. CBS News foreign correspondent Debora Patta reports from South Africa and Alonzo Plough chief science officer and vice president of research, evaluation and learning at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, joins CBSN to discuss the variant.
Global concerns grow over Omicron variant
Researchers are trying to learn more about the Omicron COVID-19 variant and whether or not it is resistant to existing vaccines or more deadly than other variants. CBS news foreign correspondent Debora Patta takes us inside one of the labs in South Africa where the new strain was first discovered. Then, Dr. Stanley Perlman, a professor of microbiology, immunology and pediatrics at the University of Iowa, joins CBSN to discuss the latest.
Military service members face deadline to get COVID-19 vaccine
U.S. Navy Surgeon General Rear Admiral Bruce Gillingham said that service members who do not get vaccinated "can be administratively separated for not following a direct order."
COVID Omicron variant fuels global concerns
Global leaders are racing to contain a potentially more dangerous new coronavirus strain that was first discovered in South Africa. On Friday, the World Health Organization officially declared the Omicron strain a "variant of concern." CBS News foreign correspondent Debra Patta has more from Johannesburg on the increased precautionary measures some countries are taking to slow the spread of the virus, then Lana Zak speaks with Dr. Sujan Gogu, a physician who is part of the founding circle of Doctors in Politics, about the dangers of the Omicron variant.
New COVID variant found in South Africa
A new strain of the coronavirus found in South Africa is alarming scientists around the world. CBS News foreign correspondent Debora Patta and CBS News reporter and researcher Max Bayer explain why this new variant is so concerning.
U.S. COVID infections on the rise
COVID-19 cases have jumped more than 16% over the past week, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with at least 30 states reporting increasing cases and hospitalizations. Columbia University Pediatric surgeon Dr. Susannah Hills spoke with CBSN's Anne-Marie Green about what people should keep in mind during the holiday season.
"General Hospital" actor Steve Burton fired for refusing vaccine
Steve Burton has intermittently starred on the soap opera since 1992, portraying the character of Jason Morgan.
Delta variant makes up 99% of U.S. COVID cases
COVID-19 cases are surging in several parts of the U.S. ahead of the holidays. Infections are also rising among children. Emergency medicine physician Dr. Hiral Tipirneni joins CBSN's Elaine Quijano to discuss the latest pandemic news.
WorldView: Deadly Bulgaria bus crash
At least 45 people, including 12 children, are dead after a bus carrying mostly North Macedonian tourists crashed and caught fire on a highway in western Bulgaria. CBS News foreign correspondent Debora Patta reports from Johannesburg on this and other stories making headlines around the world.
U.S. COVID-19 death toll in 2021
Coronavirus cases are rising in more than 30 states ahead of Thanksgiving. It comes as the White House reports about 3 million Americans received a third dose over the weekend following the FDA's authorization of both Moderna and Pfizer's booster for all adults. Vice Dean of Johns Hopkins University's Bloomberg School of Public Health Dr. Joshua Sharfstein joined CBSN's Elaine Quijano to discuss.
Doctor on rise in COVID ahead of Thanksgiving
COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are on the rise again ahead of the busy holiday travel season. Dr. Eric Cioe-Peña joins CBSN to discuss what this means for families planning to gather this Thanksgiving.
Protests in Europe on new COVID restrictions
As Europe becomes an epicenter of COVID-19 infections, Governments in Europe are beginning to implement social restrictions as COVID-19 surges, but protests are breaking out across the continent. CBS News foreign correspondent Imtiaz Tyab reports for CBSN on the growing unrest.
COVID-19 significantly raises risk to pregnant women and their babies, studies find
Researchers found that pregnant women with COVID-19 had higher rates of ICU admission, death and stillbirths.
CDC decides to allow COVID-19 vaccine boosters for all adults
Many states have already moved to allow all adults to receive a COVID vaccine booster shot, ahead of the official CDC decision.
Moderna asks FDA to clear booster for all adults
Moderna has formally requested the FDA authorize expansion of its COVID-19 booster shot to all adults. Federal health officials are expected to authorize expansion of Pfizer's booster this week. It comes as cases continue to rise across the U.S. Emergency medicine physician Dr. Owais Durrani joins CBSN's Lana Zak to discuss.
Austria to impose nationwide COVID lockdown and vaccine mandate
The lockdown will last up to 20 days, and the vaccination requirement for adults starts in February, as much of Europe tries to fend off another wave of coronavirus infections.
FDA could approve boosters for all adults
The Food and Drug Administration could authorize the Pfizer booster shot for all adults as early as Thursday. Infectious disease specialist Dr. Amesh Adalja joins CBSN to discuss how expanding booster shot eligibility will effect the country's fight against COVID-19.
COVID-19 cases up in some European countries
Parts of Europe are seeing a wave of COVID-19 infections as colder weather sets in, forcing some countries to implement new social restrictions and partial lockdowns. CBS News foreign correspondent Imtiaz Tyab reports on the current surge for CBSN.
Pfizer's COVID pill and booster eligibility
The FDA and CDC could expand eligibility of the Pfizer booster shot as early as this week. The drugmaker is also seeking emergency use authorization for its COVID-19 antiviral pill, Paxlovid. CBS News' Naomi Ruchim reports, and then Dr. William Schaffner, professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, joins CBSN's Tanya Rivero to discuss the latest progress in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
Live
6 more U.S. deaths, vague threat from Trump as Iran war nears 2-week mark
The U.S. military says six service members were killed in a plane crash in Iraq, as Iran's continued attacks on Gulf states keep oil prices high.
Judge quashes subpoenas sent to Fed in DOJ criminal probe
A federal judge has quashed a pair of grand jury subpoenas sent to the Federal Reserve Board as part of a criminal probe by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro's office.
Trump indicates Ric Grenell out as Kennedy Center president
Matt Floca will be the new CEO and executive director of the Kennedy Center, President Trump announced.
Democrats seek clarity on Epstein accountant's statements on Trump accuser
Richard Kahn, who worked closely with Epstein for more than a decade, testified before the Oversight Committee on Wednesday.
Jury finds defendants guilty of terrorism charges in attack on Prairieland ICE center
Nine defendants were on trial on charges related to the July 4 attack on the Prairieland ICE detention center in North Texas.
All 6 crew members killed in crash of U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft in Iraq
The U.S. military has confirmed that all six crew members were killed when an American KC-135 refueling plane taking part in the Iran war crashed in western Iraq.
Suspect in synagogue attack lost family in recent airstrike in Lebanon, source says
The attacker rammed a vehicle into Temple Israel in West Bloomfield and was confronted and killed by security, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said.
Military exercises in Alaska, Greenland test forces on operating in Arctic conditions
The U.S. military participated in a multi-national exercise in Alaska and Greenland in the austere conditions that officials say military forces need to train in more regularly for the future.
These 2 bills would erase income taxes for millions of Americans
Two Democratic lawmakers are proposing tax reforms that would eliminate federal income taxes for millions of Americans.
U.S.
More U.S.
Trump indicates Ric Grenell out as Kennedy Center president
Matt Floca will be the new CEO and executive director of the Kennedy Center, President Trump announced.
Exclusive
Security detail requested for US official who asked for Lisa Cook, Adam Schiff probes
A security detail has been requested from the federal health department's inspector general for top federal housing official Bill Pulte.
New release of oil reserves will put U.S. supplies at 40-year low
The latest release of oil follows historic withdrawals from the Biden administration to combat gas prices from the Ukraine war.
Chart shows what you're paying for when you buy a gallon of gas
U.S. gas prices are surging as the Iran war drives up the global cost of oil. But what exactly accounts for what you pay at the pump?
Democrats seek clarity on Epstein accountant's statements on Trump accuser
Richard Kahn, who worked closely with Epstein for more than a decade, testified before the Oversight Committee on Wednesday.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Chart shows what you're paying for when you buy a gallon of gas
U.S. gas prices are surging as the Iran war drives up the global cost of oil. But what exactly accounts for what you pay at the pump?
High oil prices are boosting airfares. These tips could save you money.
Planning a trip? Travel experts recommend booking your flight soon as the Iran war drives up airline and ticket costs.
These 2 bills would erase income taxes for millions of Americans
Two Democratic lawmakers are proposing tax reforms that would eliminate federal income taxes for millions of Americans.
Toyota recalls 550,000 Highlander SUVs because seats may fail to lock
Parts defect affecting Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles can increase the risk of injury, according to a safety notice. Here's what to know.
Economic growth late last year was much weaker than previously thought
GDP grew at a sluggish 0.7% pace in the final months of 2025 as the government shutdown hurt economic activity.
Politics
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Trump indicates Ric Grenell out as Kennedy Center president
Matt Floca will be the new CEO and executive director of the Kennedy Center, President Trump announced.
Exclusive
Security detail requested for US official who asked for Lisa Cook, Adam Schiff probes
A security detail has been requested from the federal health department's inspector general for top federal housing official Bill Pulte.
Democrats seek clarity on Epstein accountant's statements on Trump accuser
Richard Kahn, who worked closely with Epstein for more than a decade, testified before the Oversight Committee on Wednesday.
Trump posts renderings showing Kennedy Center exterior after planned renovation
The Kennedy Center is set to close for two years on July 4.
Judge quashes subpoenas sent to Fed in DOJ criminal probe
A federal judge has quashed a pair of grand jury subpoenas sent to the Federal Reserve Board as part of a criminal probe by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro's office.
HealthWatch
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Millions of Americans skip meals, stretch medication to afford health care
Even people with six-figure incomes are making financial sacrifices to pay for medical care, a new study finds.
Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry
Crystalline silica, which is released into the air when workers cut and polish engineered stone for kitchen countertops, can scar human lungs beyond repair.
"I was fighting to survive": Patients still struggle with preauthorization hurdles
Last summer, the Trump administration announced a voluntary pledge by health insurers to reform prior authorization, but patient advocates and medical providers remain skeptical.
Investigation
There's one building in LA with 89 registered hospices: "Ground zero" for fraud?
A CBS News analysis of records for every hospice operating in Los Angeles County finds indications of fraud are growing.
Raw oysters and clams recalled in 9 states over norovirus risks
Food containing norovirus may smell and taste normal but still cause serious illness if consumed, FDA warns.
World
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New release of oil reserves will put U.S. supplies at 40-year low
The latest release of oil follows historic withdrawals from the Biden administration to combat gas prices from the Ukraine war.
Latin American drug kingpin wanted by U.S. is arrested in Bolivia
Notorious Latin American narco trafficker Sebastian Marset, who eluded police for years, was handed over to U.S. authorities after his arrest Friday in Bolivia.
Tourists, expats detained in UAE over content showing Iran war impacts
The head of an advocacy group said 21 people were facing charges under the UAE's cybercrime laws as of Thursday, including a 60-year-old British tourist.
Iran says major U.S. tech firms now among its targets in the Middle East
Suspected Iranian cyber and drone attacks are already impacting U.S. tech companies, and Iran says a list of American firms are now on its target list.
Democratic senators file war powers resolution to try to restrain Trump on Cuba
Senate Democrats have filed legislation hat would keep the U.S. from attacking Cuba without congressional approval as they seek to force a vote on President Trump's stated goal of a "takeover" of the Caribbean country.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Texas prepares for SXSW 2026
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson joins CBS News 24/7 Mornings with the latest details on preparations for SXSW 2026.
2026 Oscar winner predictions
The 98th annual Academy Awards will be held on Sunday. With 10 films nominated for the night's biggest honor, best picture, an expert says there are only two major contenders. Entertainment Tonight's Nischelle Turner previews Hollywood's big night.
James Blake on new album, leaving his label
Grammy-winning artist James Blake speaks about making his first solo album as an independent artist. He talks to Anthony Mason about why he decided to leave his record label, what it's like to work with some of the world's biggest musicians and the passion behind his music.
Oscars 2026: Behind the scenes with the best actress nominees
Watch scenes from the performances nominated for best actress at the 98th annual Academy Awards, as well as interviews with the nominees.
Misty Copeland fires back at Timothée Chalamet ballet, opera comments
Ballerina Misty Copeland responded to controversial comments made by actor Timothée Chalamet when he appeared to dismiss the significance of ballet and opera, saying, "No one cares."
Technology
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3 teens took part in a weeklong experiment to curb screen time. It worked.
For one week, three New Jersey high schoolers agreed not to take their phones to bed, and to try different tools to reduce screen time.
How Pentagon-Anthropic AI dispute escalated
The Trump administration has blacklisted AI giant Anthropic, labeling it a supply chain risk. The company has sued in response. New York Times tech reporter Sheera Frenkel joins CBS News to break down the feud.
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.
Memory chip shortage could raise tech prices
An explosion in artificial intelligence data centers and cloud computing is shrinking the supply of memory chips, which is having a major impact on the price consumers pay for everyday tech. CNET editor-in-chief David Katzmaier joins CBS News to discuss.
What is XMoney, Elon Musk's new digital payments platform?
Elon Musk said his long-planned payments platform, dubbed XMoney, is set to launch for select users. Here's what to know.
Science
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Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
How Washington's crossing of the Delaware presaged a changing world
On the evening of Christmas 1776, Gen. George Washington surprised the King's forces by leading the Continental Army in a surprise crossing of a near-frozen Delaware River - a watershed military maneuver that dramatized a changing America, and a changing climate.
Crime
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Video shows synagogue attacker buying $2,250 in fireworks ahead of attack
Ayman Mohamad Ghazali made two purchases at a Phantom Fireworks store in Livonia, Michigan. He told the store staff the fireworks were for the end of Ramadan.
Jury finds defendants guilty of terrorism charges in attack on Prairieland ICE center
Nine defendants were on trial on charges related to the July 4 attack on the Prairieland ICE detention center in North Texas.
U.S. on high alert after attacks in MI, VA
Attacks at Old Dominion University in Virginia and Temple Israel in Michigan on Thursday may be linked to terrorism as the U.S. grapples with war in the Middle East. CBS News' Anna Schecter reports.
Latin American drug kingpin wanted by U.S. is arrested in Bolivia
Notorious Latin American narco trafficker Sebastian Marset, who eluded police for years, was handed over to U.S. authorities after his arrest Friday in Bolivia.
Temple Israel rabbi on synagogue attack
Rabbi Jen Lader is reacting to the attack at the Temple Israel synagogue and school in West Bloomfield, Michigan. Lader joined CBS News 24/76 with more details.
Space
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NASA targets April 1 for moon mission launch
NASA's huge Space Launch System rocket has been repaired and is ready for rollout back to the launch pad next week.
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
Why NASA is overhauling Artemis program
NASA has announced a major overhaul of its Artemis moon program amid ongoing safety concerns. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood has more details.
How NASA plans to get astronauts on the moon
NASA announced an overhaul to its Artemis moon program as safety concerns persist. CBS News space contributor Christian Davenport breaks down the key takeaways.
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
Bill Nye on how he became the science guy
Bill Nye, the former CEO of The Planetary Society, reflects on his family background, his path to becoming known as "Bill Nye the Science Guy," which is also the name of his popular 90s PBS children's show, and talks about what's next for his career in an interview with Major Garrett on "The Takeout."
Pirro blasts judge's ruling quashing Fed subpoenas
U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro held a fiery news conference on Friday after a judge quashed subpoenas sent to the Federal Reserve as part of the Justice Department's criminal probe. CBS News' Scott MacFarlane joins with analysis.
U.S. on high alert after attacks in MI, VA
Attacks at Old Dominion University in Virginia and Temple Israel in Michigan on Thursday may be linked to terrorism as the U.S. grapples with war in the Middle East. CBS News' Anna Schecter reports.
Cuba says talks with the U.S. are underway
Cuban leaders say talks with the U.S. are underway as President Trump continues to allude to a change in the island's leadership. CBS News Miami's Morgan Rynor reports.
Key details on Day 14 of Iran war
The U.S. signaled more strikes against Iran on Friday as early details emerge about the deaths of six service members in Iraq. CBS News' Matt Gutman and Weijia Jiang report.