4 staffers for Justin Fairfax quit amid sexual assault controversy
Fairfax was accused of sexual assault and rape last week by two separate women
Ralph Northam
Gov. Northam says "I'm not going anywhere"
Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam refuses to resign despite growing backlash over a picture on his medical school yearbook page featuring a man wearing blackface and another person in a Ku Klux Klan outfit. Northam has denied being either person in the photo, but he has said he wore blackface on a separate occasion. He sat down with "CBS This Morning" co-host Gayle King for his first television interview about the controversy.
Virginia governor responds to racist photo
Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam says he's "not going anywhere" in spite of a racist photo printed in his medical school yearbook. The Democratic lawmaker admitted to "CBS This Morning" co-host Gayle King he "overreacted" when he initially apologized for appearing in the photograph. He went on to say he wasn't either of the two men in the photograph.
Trevor Noah weighs in on blackface controversies
The "Daily Show" host weighs in on blackface controversies surrounding Virginia leaders
Northam says he can take Va. to "next level"
Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam insists he will not resign over a racist 1984 yearbook photo. In his only TV interview, the Democrat tells “CBS This Morning” co-host Gayle King he'll do everything he can to regain Virginia’s trust.
Virginia delegate backs down on calls to impeach Justin Fairfax
"There has been an enormous amount of sincere and thoughtful feedback," Virginia delegate Patrick Hope tweeted
Ralph Northam said racist photo controversy happened for "a reason"
"I know in my heart who I am and I know what I can do and Virginia," Northam told CBS
Virginia governor says he "overreacted" with initial apology for racist photo
When the picture surfaced earlier this month, Gov. Ralph Northam said it was the first time he had seen it
Calls grow for Va. leaders to resign
Justin Fairfax, the lieutenant governor of Virginia, is facing a new allegation of sexual assault, and calls for his resignation are mounting. Meanwhile, Governor Ralph Northam is refusing to step down from his position amid a scandal over a racist yearbook photo. President Trump has yet to weigh in on the controversy. CBSN political contributor and conservative columnist Michael Graham joins CBSN with the latest.
Northam vows to stay in office: "I'm not going anywhere"
In an interview with "CBS This Morning" co-host Gayle King, Virginia's Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam says he will not resign amid the controversy over his racist yearbook photo. "I have thought about resigning, but I've also thought about what Virginia needs right now," Northam said.
Virginia Democrats reiterate calls for Northam, Fairfax to resign
Virginia's Don Beyer and Jennifer Wexton stand by their calls for their fellow Democrats to step down
"I'm not going anywhere": Northam vows to remain in office despite calls to resign
"Virginia needs someone that can heal. There's no better person to do that than a doctor," said Northam
Virginia Lt. Gov. calls for investigation into allegations
Several of the state's top Democrats, including U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine and former Gov. Terry McAuliffe, have called for Fairfax to step down
Northam says he plans to address racial equality
Northam told the Washington Post it has been "a horrific week for Virginia"
Northam meets leaders of Martin Luther King Jr.’s group
Embattled Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam has refused to step down amid controversy. He met with Charles Steele, president of the SCLC and a board member who was a friend of MLK, Bernard LaFayette
Virginia state senator edited yearbook with racist photos in college
The images are just the latest in a string of racist imagery resurfacing for Virginia state politicians
Understanding the "legacy of oppression" behind blackface
The practice became popular in mid-1800's minstrel shows, when white performers darkened their faces to depict African-Americans in prejudicial and offensive ways
Fairfax accuser told others, including congressman, about allegations
Vanessa Tyson claims that the incident took place during the 2004 Democratic National Convention
Virginia AG admits to wearing blackface
Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring, the second in line to the governorship of Virginia, released a statement admitting to wearing blackface at a party when he was 19. It's the latest in a string of racially-charged controversies for Virginia state politicians. CBS News political correspondent Ed O'Keefe has the latest.
Va. reeling amid scandals for top 3 officials
The top three officials in Virginia's government are now all caught in separate scandals. State Attorney General Mark Herring admitted Wednesday he wore blackface to a college costume party in 1980. A few days ago, Herring called for Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam to resign over a yearbook photo showing a man in blackface. There is also an allegation of sexual misconduct against Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax, which he denies. Ed O’Keefe reports.
Virginia AG admits to dressing in blackface as a student
Mark Herring dressed as the rapper Kurtis Blow as a 19-year-old college student
Uncertain future for Virginia's top Democrats amid several scandals
First, it was Virginia's governor. Then, the lieutenant governor. Now the state attorney general
Woman details alleged sexual assault by Virginia lieutenant governor
Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax has repeatedly denied allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman in 2004
Trump urges late-term abortion ban during State of the Union
The president denounced a New York law that allows abortions after 24 weeks of pregnancy if the life of the mother is at risk or the fetus is not viable
Northam's former classmates show support
Four days after Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam was linked to a racist photo in his 1984 medical school yearbook, he has resisted calls to resign. A group of his former classmates issued a statement saying they don't believe he is in the photo. Chip Reid 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.
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.
Trump suggests Republicans should nationalize voting
President Trump has continued to claim without evidence that there is widespread fraud in U.S. elections.
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
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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.
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.
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
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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.