Records show many federal workers were fired and rehired at 18 agencies
More than 24,000 federal probationary employees who worked across 18 agencies were fired as part of President Trump's efforts to reduce the size of government.
Department of Government Efficiency
Fired CISA probationary employees to be reinstated after U.S. judge's order
Over 130 probationary cybersecurity agency workers were told in a mass-firing form letter last month they were "not fit" for employment.
Government expert on Elon Musk and DOGE's "slash-and-burn exercise"
Trump campaign funder and government disrupter Elon Musk has used unprecedented power to quickly eliminate thousands of federal jobs and shutter entire programs and agencies, using tactics that have raised questions about transparency.
Is Trump's sweeping firings an abuse of power?
The government must follow certain rules. Not lying is one of them. Two federal judges sent that message to the Trump administration this week when they ordered it to rehire employees fired for what the administration said was poor performance. John Dickerson has more.
Biologist fired by DOGE stays on as volunteer
In February, the Trump administration let go of over 2,300 probationary employees from the Interior Department as part of its effort to reduce the size of the federal workforce. One fired U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service employee, Bianca Sicich, is still working for free because she's so passionate about her job. Sicich joins "America Decides" to share her story.
Second federal judge orders White House to rehire fired probationary workers
The order from U.S. District Judge James Bredar came in a lawsuit filed by 19 states and the District of Columbia against multiple federal agencies alleging the mass firings are illegal.
Veterans fired by Trump administration speak out
Veterans make up about 30% of the overall federal workforce. Many veterans who were new on the job, classified as probationary workers, were fired as part of the Trump administration's efforts to reduce the size of government through the Elon Musk-run Department of Government Efficiency. Some feel their military service is being ignored. Nancy Cordes reports.
IRS chief counsel demoted and replaced with DOGE ally
IRS' top lawyer replaced amid DOGE's alleged push to share taxpayer info with other federal agencies.
Judge's orders on federal firings
A federal judge has ordered six federal agencies to offer to reinstate probationary employees who were fired as part of the Trump administration's cuts through the Office of Personnel Management. CBS News' Jake Rosen has more.
NOAA and National Weather Service job cuts raise concerns about forecasts
A hurricane modeling specialist fired from the National Weather Service said progress on forecast accuracy may "go backwards" if job cuts continue.
Does Elon Musk want a government shutdown?
In just over 48 hours, the government will partially shut down unless Congress can pass a continuing resolution. New reporting from Wired finds Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency might just want Washington, D.C., to close for a few days. Makena Kelly, senior politics writer at Wired, and Vittoria Elliott, reporter at Wired, join "America Decides" to explain.
Education Department union reacts to job cuts
The Trump administration is placing more than a thousand Department of Education workers on leave beginning March 21. American Federation of Government Employees Local 252 President Sheria Smith, whose union represents Education Department employees, joins "America Decides" with her reaction.
Tesla facilities across the country attacked in protest of Elon Musk
President Trump says any attacks on Tesla facilities will be considered "domestic terrorism" following the wave of protests and violence.
NOAA cuts raising concerns over public safety
Another wave of mass firings could be hitting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The agency, which includes the National Weather Service, could ultimately lose about 20% of its staff. Rob Marciano reports.
Rubio: 83% of USAID programs terminated
Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday announced the cancellation of 83% of USAID programs. Rubio said the remaining programs will be run under the State Department and thanked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency for its assistance in cutting costs. Sam Vinograd, CBS News national security contributor, and Raj Kumar, president and editor-in-chief of Devex, join to assess the impact on U.S. assistance worldwide.
HHS offers buyout option, source says
All employees at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services received an offer of a $25,000 payment if they choose to voluntarily resign, a source familiar with the situation told CBS News. Major Garrett has more.
DOGE mischaracterizes a study as transgender, and USDA cancels it
"CANCELLED: $600,000 grant to study 'menstrual cycles in transgender men,'" Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said on X last week. That's not what it was.
Trump defends Elon Musk, DOGE
President Trump defended Elon Musk and DOGE over the weekend after reported rifts between Musk and Cabinet members. CBS News White House reporter Olivia Rinaldi has more.
Secretary of state says 83% of USAID programs are being canceled
USAID has been the target of DOGE, the Elon Musk-helmed agency created in an executive order signed by President Trump on his first day in office.
All HHS workers given $25,000 voluntary buyout offer, source says
All employees in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services were notified Friday of the option to voluntarily resign in exchange for a $25,000 payment.
Trump downplays infighting between Musk, Rubio
President Trump is backing a House Republican plan to avert a government shutdown next week. He also played down reports of in-fighting in his Cabinet with advisor Elon Musk. Nikole Killion has the details.
Ex-FEMA CFO gets threats after being fired
The chief financial officer at FEMA was fired after Elon Musk alleged she illegally sent funds to New York City to book luxury hotels for migrants. However, in an interview with CBS Evening News co-anchor Maurice DuBois, Mary Comans says a member of DOGE directed her to make the payments. DuBois joins "America Decides" with the latest.
Trump appears to limit Elon Musk's powers
President Trump appears to be reining in Elon Musk's layoff efforts and suggesting a more "precise" approach by his Cabinet secretaries. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes reports.
U.S. layoffs at highest level since 2020
Layoffs across the U.S. soared in February, hitting the highest levels since July 2020. Javier E. David, business editor for the Dallas Morning News, joined CBS News to discuss the rise in job cuts.
FEMA CFO fired over payments to NYC for migrants says she had DOGE sign-off
"They told me to do these actions, to make these payments, and then they fired me," said Mary Comans, who was FEMA's chief financial officer.
How manufacturers can use ingredients that haven't been federally approved
In the quest to make America healthy, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and former FDA head Dr. David Kessler are targeting ultraprocessed foods and the GRAS exemption.
7 highlights from CBS News town hall with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore
In a CBS News "Things That Matter" town hall, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore blasted President Trump — but also urged Democrats to change their perception as "the party of no and slow."
Glove found near Guthrie's home appears to match video, has DNA, FBI says
Nancy Guthrie, the mother of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie, was last seen on Jan. 31 and was reported missing the following day, Feb. 1.
Sexual assaults on airplanes are on the rise, CBS News investigation finds
A CBS News investigation found the FBI investigated more than 170 cases of passengers assaulting other passengers on flights in 2024.
Savannah Guthrie posts new video: "It is never too late to do the right thing"
Nancy Guthrie has been missing since Feb. 1 and her daughter, "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has posted several videos pleading for her return.
Trump told Netanyahu he would support strikes on Iran missiles, sources say
President Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in December at Mar-a-Lago with Mr. Trump saying the U.S. would support strikes if no deal was made with Iran.
Gisèle Pelicot opens up about decision to testify against ex-husband
In 2024, Gisèle Pelicot bravely spoke out on surviving sexual abuse as the center of a notorious mass rape trial in France. In her first U.S. TV interview, she opens up about her decision to testify publicly against her ex-husband, and the inspiring turn her life has taken since.
Homan says "I don't like the masks" on ICE, but they "have to protect themselves"
Democrats have demanded reforms to immigration enforcement, including barring officers from wearing masks.
Canada shooter's online activity shows fascination with violence, expert says
The online activity of the shooter at a Canadian high school revealed she spent time in the dark corners of the internet.
U.S.
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Sexual assaults on airplanes are on the rise, CBS News investigation finds
A CBS News investigation found the FBI investigated more than 170 cases of passengers assaulting other passengers on flights in 2024.
Savannah Guthrie posts new video: "It is never too late to do the right thing"
Nancy Guthrie has been missing since Feb. 1 and her daughter, "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has posted several videos pleading for her return.
7 highlights from CBS News town hall with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore
In a CBS News "Things That Matter" town hall, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore blasted President Trump — but also urged Democrats to change their perception as "the party of no and slow."
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Feb. 15, 2026
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Tom Homan and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries join Ed O'Keefe.
Glove found near Guthrie's home appears to match video, has DNA, FBI says
Nancy Guthrie, the mother of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie, was last seen on Jan. 31 and was reported missing the following day, Feb. 1.
MoneyWatch
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Prediction markets heat up on Valentine's Day as people place bets on love
Prediction markets are taking bets this Valentine's Day that celebrity relationships can thrive — or break apart.
January CPI report is the best inflation news in months. Here's why.
The inflation reading, the lowest since May 2025, shows grocery, gas and rent prices are cooling.
Amazon ends Flock partnership after backlash over Super Bowl ad
Amazon's Ring unit touted a "search party" service in its Super Bowl ad, but one critic called the app a "surveillance nightmare."
Can TrumpRx help you save money on drugs? Here's what experts say.
The Trump administration's new discounted drug platform isn't a game-changer for consumers, health care experts said.
Romance costs more this year as inflation lifts Valentine's Day gift prices
Love is biting consumers this year amid the rising cost of flowers, chocolates and other Valentine's Day staples.
Politics
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7 highlights from CBS News town hall with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore
In a CBS News "Things That Matter" town hall, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore blasted President Trump — but also urged Democrats to change their perception as "the party of no and slow."
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Feb. 15, 2026
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Tom Homan and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries join Ed O'Keefe.
Tillis says Trump advisers are "not taking care of this president's legacy"
Sen. Thom Tillis, who is not running for reelection in 2026, said he believed that Republicans could hold onto its majority in the Senate after the 2026 midterm elections.
Transcript: Rep. Robert Garcia on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Feb. 15, 2026
The following is the transcript of the interview with Rep. Robert Garcia, Democrat of California, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Feb. 15, 2026.
Trump told Netanyahu he would support strikes on Iran missiles, sources say
President Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in December at Mar-a-Lago with Mr. Trump saying the U.S. would support strikes if no deal was made with Iran.
HealthWatch
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Measles cases at university in Florida soar to nearly 60
Twenty one states in the U.S. have confirmed cases of measles.
Can TrumpRx help you save money on drugs? Here's what experts say.
The Trump administration's new discounted drug platform isn't a game-changer for consumers, health care experts said.
Moderna says FDA refuses its application for new mRNA flu vaccine
The Food and Drug Administration is refusing to consider Moderna's application for a new flu vaccine made with mRNA technology, the company said.
What to know about a new study on coffee, tea and dementia risk
CBS News medical contributor Dr. Céline Gounder said the results of the study on coffee drinkers having lower risk of dementia should be taken "with a massive grain of salt."
Thousands of mothers were flagged to police over flawed drug tests at childbirth
The Marshall Project found more than 70,000 cases referred to law enforcement over allegations of substance use during pregnancy — and that's a significant undercount.
World
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Canada shooter's online activity shows fascination with violence, expert says
The online activity of the shooter at a Canadian high school revealed she spent time in the dark corners of the internet.
Transcript: Rep. Robert Garcia on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Feb. 15, 2026
The following is the transcript of the interview with Rep. Robert Garcia, Democrat of California, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Feb. 15, 2026.
Trump told Netanyahu he would support strikes on Iran missiles, sources say
President Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in December at Mar-a-Lago with Mr. Trump saying the U.S. would support strikes if no deal was made with Iran.
Lindsey Vonn preparing to leave Italy after Olympics crash, says ski team chief
The chief of the U.S. Ski Team says Lindsey Vonn is preparing to return to the United States a week after crashing in the Olympic downhill.
Transcript: House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Feb. 15, 2025
The following is the transcript of the interview with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Democrat of New York, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Feb. 15, 2026.
Entertainment
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Stephen A. Smith: Always up for a debate
The high-profile ESPN and SiriusXM commentator and bestselling author is a combative and colorful voice on sports. But now, with a weekly political show in which he interviews government leaders, he is raising eyebrows in Washington, too.
Stephen A. Smith: Always up for a debate
High-profile ESPN and SiriusXM commentator and bestselling author Stephen A. Smith is a combative and colorful voice on sports. But now, with a weekly political show, in which he interviews government leaders, he is gaining notice in Washington, too. Smith talks with "Sunday Morning" national correspondent Robert Costa about his journey and whether he might soon be on a debate stage.
Paul Anka: Still doing it his way
The singer-songwriter who's remained on Billboard's Hot 100 Chart for seven straight decades has just released his latest album, "Inspirations of Life and Love." A youthful 84, he talks about his artistic longevity.
Passage: In memoriam
"Sunday Morning" remembers some of the notable figures who left us this week, including actor James Van Der Beek, star of the series "Dawson's Creek."
"Frankenstein," "Wuthering Heights" star Jacob Elordi
At 28, Australian actor Jacob Elordi has earned his first Academy Award nomination for his haunting portrayal of the Creature in Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein." He talks about his love of acting, and why he has no relationship with social media.
Technology
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Technology
Viral essay urges people to prepare for AI
If you've been on social media this week, you've likely seen an ominous warning about artificial intelligence in your feed: "Something big is happening." An essay from the CEO of an AI company, Matt Shumer, likens the current moment to February 2020, right before the start of COVID. Nate Soares, co-author of "If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies," joins to discuss.
Amazon ends Flock partnership after backlash over Super Bowl ad
Amazon's Ring unit touted a "search party" service in its Super Bowl ad, but one critic called the app a "surveillance nightmare."
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.
FTC warns Apple's Tim Cook over alleged political bias in Apple News app
The Federal Trade Commission sent a letter to Tim Cook one day after President Trump circulated a report raising questions about Apple News' practices.
Russia blocks WhatsApp as it pushes state-backed alternative on citizens
The messaging platform WhatsApp says Russia has "attempted to fully block" its service inside the country, "to drive people to a state-owned surveillance app."
Science
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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.
These United States: George Washington and climate change
On the evening of Christmas 1776, Gen. George Washington surprised the King's forces by leading the Continental Army in an unanticipated crossing of a near-frozen Delaware River. Environmental correspondent David Schechter looks at how Washington's watershed military maneuver dramatized both a changing America, and a changing climate.
Impact of climate change on Winter Olympics
The Winter Olympics in Milan need artificial snow due to climate change and warmer weather. Athletes say man-made snow makes terrain more difficult and unpredictable. Rob Marciano reports on its impact.
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.
Crime
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Sexual assaults on airplanes are on the rise, CBS News investigation finds
A CBS News investigation found the FBI investigated more than 170 cases of passengers assaulting other passengers on flights in 2024.
Savannah Guthrie posts new video: "It is never too late to do the right thing"
Nancy Guthrie has been missing since Feb. 1 and her daughter, "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie, has posted several videos pleading for her return.
FBI: Glove in Guthrie case has DNA evidence
A black glove discovered near the Arizona home of Nancy Guthrie contains DNA evidence that is being tested, and appears to match the gloves worn by the suspect seen in a doorbell camera video, the FBI says. Andres Gutierrez has more.
Canada shooter's online activity shows fascination with violence, expert says
The online activity of the shooter at a Canadian high school revealed she spent time in the dark corners of the internet.
Glove found near Guthrie's home appears to match video, has DNA, FBI says
Nancy Guthrie, the mother of "Today" show co-host Savannah Guthrie, was last seen on Jan. 31 and was reported missing the following day, Feb. 1.
Space
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Fresh crew arrives at International Space Station to boost numbers back to 7
The Crew 12 docking came one month after a previous crew had to return to Earth early due to a medical issue.
SpaceX launches crew to ISS
NASA and SpaceX launched a new mission to the International Space Station with four crew members on board to replace the team that returned last month due to a medical issue with one member. Mark Strassmann has more.
SpaceX launches space station crew on 8-month mission
The two-woman, two-man crew is replacing four other station fliers who came home early last month due to a medical issue one was having.
NASA, SpaceX mission prepares for launch
NASA and SpaceX say they have completed their final reviews and are ready to launch a crewed mission to the International Space Station on Friday. Retired NASA astronaut Leroy Chiao joins "The Daily Report" to discuss.
ULA rocket has booster problem while launching classified Space Force payloads
A United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket carrying classified Space Force payloads suffered a booster problem but apparently made an otherwise "nominal" ascent to space, the company said.
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
More girls playing youth hockey
USA Hockey says girls' participation nationwide has surged 65% over the past 15 seasons, making it one of the fastest growing youth sports in the country. Natalie Brand reports.
Airplane sexual assaults on rise
Authorities are monitoring a threat in the skies: sexual assaults on airplanes. There's fear the crime is underreported. Scott MacFarlane investigates.
Tough showings for American Olympic headliners
Some of the biggest names going into the Milano Cortina Games are not the ones we're seeing at the very top of the podium. Seth Doane reports.
Epstein files' international fallout
Revelations from the latest release of Epstein files have forced resignations and sparked new investigations around the globe. Leigh Kiniry has more.
Inside Democrats' demands for DHS reforms
Sunday marked the second day of a partial government shutdown impacting more than 260,000 government workers under the Department of Homeland Security across multiple agencies, including TSA, FEMA and the Coast Guard. Democrats are calling for a ban on face coverings for immigration agents and for officers to display identification and wear body cameras. Willie James Inman has more.