CBS Evening News, May 14, 2020
Whistleblower says Trump administration ignored warnings about coronavirus; 5-year-old aspiring teacher takes over kindergarten class
Richard Burr
Search warrant issued to Senator Burr
CBS News has confirmed that a federal search warrant was issued to North Carolina Senator Richard Burr as part of a probe of financial moves before the coronavirus outbreak sent the markets plunging. A U.S. official says the FBI obtained Senator Burr’s cellphone in connection to stocks he sold. CBS News chief congressional correspondent Nancy Cordes reports.
Harris quieted
At a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, Senator Kamala Harris was interrupted by Chairman Richard Burr as she went head-to-head with Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein over Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation into the Trump campaign ties with Russia.
Senate's Russia probe
Sen. Richard Burr, chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, and Sen. Mark Warner, the ranking member, spoke at a news conference about their investigation into Russian meddling in the U.S. election. It was in sharp contrast to the House committee, which is surrounded by controversy. Jeff Pegues reports.
GOP senators face punishment for impeachment vote
Already, Senators Richard Burr of North Carolina and Bill Cassidy of Louisiana have been censured by their respective state GOPs.
Burr faces censure by North Carolina GOP for voting to convict Trump
North Carolina GOP Chairman Michael Whatley said in a statement that Burr's vote to convict "in a trial that he declared unconstitutional is shocking and disappointing."
Justice Department closes investigation into Senator Burr
Senate financial disclosure records reveal Burr and his wife made at least 30 stock sales from January 31 to February 13, 2020 ranging from $600,000 to $1.7 million.
Trump accuses Dems of stealing staffers
President Trump lashed out at House Democrats who have re-launched investigations into him, accusing them on Twitter of "stealing people who work at the White House." CBS News intelligence reporter Olivia Gazis joined CBSN to discuss that, plus more of her exclusive interview with Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr.
Insight into the Senate's Russia investigation
CBS News intelligence reporter Olivia Gazis explains what she learned from Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Richard Burr about why the Senate's investigation into Russian election meddling has taken so long
Justice Department drops probes into 3 senators' stock sales
Republican Senator Richard Burr, however, remains under investigation for his financial transactions.
Senate panel subpoenas Donald Trump Jr.
The fight between Congress and the White House is escalating. After the House Judiciary Committee voted to hold Attorney General William Barr in contempt, the Republican-led Senate Intelligence Committee issued a subpoena for the president's son, Donald Trump Jr. CBS News chief congressional correspondent Nancy Cordes joined CBSN to explain how it might end.
Rubio tapped as acting chairman of Senate Intel Committee
Rubio will serve as the acting chairman after Senator Richard Burr stepped down from the post during an investigation into his stock trades.
House to vote on $3 trillion coronavirus bill
The House is preparing to vote on a $3 trillion coronavirus relief bill aimed at giving Americans more financial help and supporting state finances. But Republicans oppose it, and some House Democrats also have concerns about the proposal. CBS News chief congressional correspondent Nancy Cordes joined CBSN with the latest.
How a 60 Minutes story is linked to FBI's investigation of Sen. Burr
Burr is under investigation for selling stock prior to the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Burr steps down as intel chairman amid FBI probe into stock sales
The move comes after FBI agents seized Burr's cell phone as part of an investigation into his stock sales.
Senators sold off stocks before market spiral
Four U.S. senators reportedly sold stocks before the coronavirus sent markets plunging. Republican Senator Richard Burr sold up to roughly $1.7 million in mid-February, days after penning an op-ed assuring Americans that the U.S. was prepared to handle the disease. No charges have been filed and there is no evidence any of the four senators had insider information. Nancy Cordes reveals who the other Senators are and breaks down the details surrounding the accusations.
Expert warns of "darkest winter" if COVID-19 rebounds
One of the nation's leading vaccine experts says the U.S. ignored warning signs in the early phases of the coronavirus outbreak. Dr. Rick Bright, the former director of the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, testified before the House on Thursday. Politico White House correspondent and associate editor Anita Kumar joins CBSN's Elaine Quijano to discuss this and the rest of the day's political headlines.
Burr steps down amid probe into stock sales
Senator Richard Burr is stepping down as chair of the Intelligence Committee while he is being investigated for selling $1.7 million in stocks before the market plunged due to the coronavirus pandemic. Jeff Pegues has the latest.
GOP senator's phone seized in FBI insider trading investigation
Burr sold up to $1.7 million in stocks over several weeks before the stock market plunged, amid mounting warnings of a coronavirus pandemic.
Senator Richard Burr's phone seized by FBI
The FBI has issued a search warrant and seized Senator Richard Burr's cellphone as part of an investigation into the North Carolina Republican's selloff of stocks before the coronavirus outbreak crippled the global economy. CBS News chief congressional correspondent Nancy Cordes joins CBSN with the latest developments.
Burr and other senators sold lots of stock as virus fears started
Senate records show the transactions involving Richard Burr and Georgia's Kelly Loeffler, among others, came as lawmakers were getting private briefings on the possible outbreak.
Senators play with fidget spinners during Trump impeachment trial
Several Republican senators were spotted playing with the toys while Democrats presented their opening statements.
Senate report details "unprecedented" Russian activity in 2016 elections
The committee says that though the country was unprepared in 2016 for the Russian attacks on its election infrastructure, the U.S. has learned "much more" about the nature of Russian cyber meddling and better understands the threat it poses
Donald Trump Jr. appears before Senate Intelligence Committee
The Trump son testified before the committee once before in 2017
Senate Intelligence Committee sets date for Donald Trump Jr.'s testimony
Trump Jr. agreed to appear before the Republican-led committee in May, after receiving a congressional subpoena
Analytics firm connects bets made on war with signs of insider trading
More than $1 billion has been bet online on military decisions and outcomes this year on Polymarket. Some wagers have been suspiciously timed, with information seemingly coming from insiders.
Live
Trump says "Clock is Ticking" for Iran as shaky ceasefire continues
President Trump said "there won't be anything left of them" if Iranian leaders do not "get moving, FAST."
CBS News poll finds many voice frustration with Trump's economic approach
Gas prices, inflation weigh on Americans. Many see lack of clarity on what's happening in Iran.
At least 6 Americans in Congo were exposed to Ebola virus, sources say
The World Health Organization this week declared the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda a "public health emergency of international concern."
Taiwan representative to U.S.: "We're not the ones creating all this trouble"
Taiwan's representative to the U.S. Alexander Yui said on Sunday that "we want peace and stability" as Taiwan became among the most closely-watched issues in last week's summit.
Video shows rescuers treating mountain climber who fell 50 feet
Rescuers airlifted an injured hiker who fell about 50 feet from the summit of Washington state's Mount Si on Saturday.
Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda declared global health emergency
At least 80 deaths have been reported in a new Ebola disease outbreak in Congo and Uganda, authorities said.
Letlow, Fleming advance to runoff in Louisiana GOP Senate primary, CBS News projects
Incumbent GOP Sen. Bill Cassidy, who had occasionally broken with the Trump administration, lost his bid for a third term.
Fighter jets crash in midair during air show at Idaho Air Force base
The Mountain Home Air Force Base said in a social media post that it was locked down following an incident during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show.
U.S.
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At least 6 Americans in Congo were exposed to Ebola virus, sources say
The World Health Organization this week declared the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda a "public health emergency of international concern."
Aaron Rai wins PGA Championship for his first major title
Sunday's win at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, is only his second PGA tour victory, after winning the 2024 Wyndham Championship.
Fighter jets crash in midair during air show at Idaho Air Force base
The Mountain Home Air Force Base said in a social media post that it was locked down following an incident during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show.
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," May 17, 2026
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Ambassador Alexander Yui, Taiwan's Representative to the U.S., join Margaret Brennan.
Video shows rescuers treating mountain climber who fell 50 feet
Rescuers airlifted an injured hiker who fell about 50 feet from the summit of Washington state's Mount Si on Saturday.
MoneyWatch
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Is the answer to the housing crunch right in your own backyard?
Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs, are small, fully-functional secondary homes located on the same property as a main home, usually in the backyard, filling a vital need where housing has proved scant or expensive.
CBS News poll finds many voice frustration with Trump's economic approach
Gas prices, inflation weigh on Americans. Many see lack of clarity on what's happening in Iran.
Ice cream sold in 17 states recalled for potential metal fragments
No injuries have been reported because of the issue, the Food and Drug Administration said.
Trump talks up trade deals with China, but experts see no big wins for U.S.
President Trump's trip to China could bolster economic relations, but failed to deliver a breakthrough deal, some trade and energy experts said.
Which college majors offer the best long-term return on investment?
College grads outearn people without a degree within 15 years, even after paying for tuition, study finds.
Politics
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Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," May 17, 2026
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Ambassador Alexander Yui, Taiwan's Representative to the U.S., join Margaret Brennan.
Senate GOP revising White House ballroom security funds plan
The Senate's rulemaker delivered a blow to GOP plans to fund security for President Trump's overhaul of the East Wing of the White House.
Transcript: Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick and Tom Suozzi on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," May 17, 2026
The following is the transcript of the interview with Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick, Republican of Pennsylvania, and Tom Suozzi, Democrat of New York, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on May 17, 2026.
Taiwan representative to U.S.: "We're not the ones creating all this trouble"
Taiwan's representative to the U.S. Alexander Yui said on Sunday that "we want peace and stability" as Taiwan became among the most closely-watched issues in last week's summit.
Transcript: Alexander Yui, Taiwan's representative to the U.S., on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," May 17, 2026
The following is the transcript of the interview with Ambassador Alexander Yui, Taiwan's representative to the U.S., that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on May 17, 2026.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
WHO: Ebola outbreak a global health emergency
Outbreaks of the deadly Ebola virus in two African countries have prompted the World Health Organization to declare a global health emergency. Imtiaz Tyab reports.
At least 6 Americans in Congo were exposed to Ebola virus, sources say
The World Health Organization this week declared the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda a "public health emergency of international concern."
Version of hantavirus behind deadly outbreak matches known strain, France says
Genomic analysis showed the virus found aboard the MV Hondius shows no evidence of new characteristics so far.
Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda declared global health emergency
At least 80 deaths have been reported in a new Ebola disease outbreak in Congo and Uganda, authorities said.
A hospital worker felt healthy. Then he had 3 heart attacks in 4 days.
Tommy Bell thought he was in good shape. But a series of heart attacks painted a more complicated picture.
World
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At least 6 Americans in Congo were exposed to Ebola virus, sources say
The World Health Organization this week declared the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda a "public health emergency of international concern."
Transcript: Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick and Tom Suozzi on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," May 17, 2026
The following is the transcript of the interview with Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick, Republican of Pennsylvania, and Tom Suozzi, Democrat of New York, that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on May 17, 2026.
Taiwan representative to U.S.: "We're not the ones creating all this trouble"
Taiwan's representative to the U.S. Alexander Yui said on Sunday that "we want peace and stability" as Taiwan became among the most closely-watched issues in last week's summit.
Transcript: Alexander Yui, Taiwan's representative to the U.S., on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," May 17, 2026
The following is the transcript of the interview with Ambassador Alexander Yui, Taiwan's representative to the U.S., that aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on May 17, 2026.
Irish researchers find oldest English poem in medieval book in Rome
Researchers in Dublin discovered the oldest surviving English poem in a Roman library.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
5/17: Sunday Morning "By Design"
Jane Pauley hosts our annual look at design. Featured: Tiny homes in your backyard; Louis Vuitton; Adobe house construction; Finland's Marimekko; domino art; Philadelphia food favorites; chandeliers; Longwood Gardens; rare maps; and director Jon Favreau of "The Mandalorian and Grogu."
"Call Her Daddy" podcast host Alex Cooper announces pregnancy
"Call Her Daddy" host Alex Cooper said on Instagram that she and husband Matt Kaplan are expecting their first child.
Director Jon Favreau on "The Mandalorian and Grogu"
Jon Favreau, creator of the "Star Wars" series "The Mandalorian," has now brought the father-son relationship of Pedro Pascal's bounty hunter and his charge "Baby Yoda" to the big screen.
Extended interview: Jon Favreau
In this web exclusive, Jon Favreau, the creator of the "Star Wars" series "The Mandalorian," and director of the new film "The Mandalorian and Grogu," talks with correspondent Tracy Smith about the myth of "Star Wars," the influences on the story (including Japanese samurai films), and expanding the universe for a new audience. He also talks about working with Robert Downey Jr. on his film "Iron Man," and about cooking, the subject of his 2014 movie, "Chef."
Jon Favreau on "The Mandalorian and Grogu"
Director Jon Favreau, creator of the "Star Wars" series "The Mandalorian," has now brought Pedro Pascal's bounty hunter and his charge "Baby Yoda" to the big screen. He talks with correspondent Tracy Smith about the handmade feel of the "Star Wars" universe, and how father-son relationships have always been at the heart of the stories set in a galaxy far, far away. He also discusses bringing his improv roots to directing Robert Downey Jr. in "Iron Man."
Technology
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Technology
An adobe renaissance
For thousands of years, civilizations around the world have built houses out of earth – whether it be mud brick, wattle and dab or rammed earth. But adobe (the practice of making mudbricks) has now become today's "it" building material, from museums around the world designed using adobe, to do-it-yourselfers constructing homes from the very dirt beneath their feet. Correspondent Conor Knighton looks at the history of adobe, and how ancient adobe materials are being merged with 3-D printing techniques.
Atlanta residents report Waymo traffic jams
Atlanta residents say they're waking up to traffic jams of self-driving Waymo vehicles confused by neighborhood signage.
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.
Waymos get in Atlanta traffic jam
Atlanta residents woke up to Waymo traffic jams on Friday. The driverless cars took over a quiet cul-de-sac. Skyler Henry has more details.
Oklahoma becomes latest state to sue Roblox over child safety concerns
Oklahoma has filed a lawsuit against Roblox, making it the latest state to take legal action against the popular gaming platform over child safety concerns.
Science
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New dinosaur weighing as much as 9 elephants identified by scientists
The long-necked herbivore is the largest ever found in Southeast Asia, researchers said.
How a growing El Niño will affect 2026 hurricane season in Atlantic, Pacific
The last time an El Niño pattern occurred was in 2023, when the Eastern Pacific hurricane season produced 20 tropical systems.
NASA spacecraft to fly past Mars on voyage to rare metal asteroid
NASA's Psyche spacecraft will slingshot past Mars on Friday, on its way toward a rare metal-rich asteroid.
Emperor penguins in focus as Antarctica talks start in Japan
Greater protections for endangered emperor penguins and how to manage growing tourism are topping the agenda at talks on Antarctica in Japan.
What's in the released UFO files?
The Pentagon released UFO documents on Friday, with President Trump telling the public to "have fun" deciding for itself what is going on. Carter Evans reports.
Crime
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One man with two identities behind crimes from Monaco to New Mexico
In New Mexico, a man is charged with forgery & larceny – and convicted of putting out a hit on his estranged wife. Twenty-six years earlier, a fire in Monaco kills a billionaire and his private nurse. At the center of that mystery was the very same man — with a different name.
A "Survivor" finalist's mission to prove his late sister was murdered
"Survivor" 48 and 50 contestant Joe Hunter believes his sister Joanna, whose death was ruled a suicide, was murdered. He and their mother are working to be Joanna's voice and advocate for others who have experienced domestic violence.
Details on charges against Mohammad Al-Saadi
Mohammad Baqer Saad Dawood Al-Saadi, an Iraqi national, is facing federal charges for his alleged terror plots targeting Jewish institutions around the U.S.
Terror plot foiled, suspect under arrest
A terror plot targeting Jewish institutions in New York, California and Arizona has been foiled, and a man linked to the alleged scheme is under arrest on Friday. Prosecutors say the Iraqi suspect is tied to other global attacks and claim he wanted payback for the U.S. and Israeli war on Iran. Tom Hanson reports.
Iraqi man charged with terror plot: officials
An Iraqi national was arrested and charged with planning to carry out several terror attacks in the U.S., including at a New York City synagogue and other prominent Jewish centers in Los Angeles and Scottsdale, Arizona. CBS News' Anna Schecter reports.
Space
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SpaceX launches cargo ship to International Space Station
The International Space Station-bound SpaceX Cargo Dragon is loaded with 6,500 pounds of needed equipment, research gear and crew supplies.
NASA maps show Earth's brightest and darkest regions at night
Researchers expected to find "a gradual increase in artificial light at night," but instead saw "much more nuanced patterns," NASA said.
NASA spacecraft to fly past Mars on voyage to rare metal asteroid
NASA's Psyche spacecraft will slingshot past Mars on Friday, on its way toward a rare metal-rich asteroid.
UFO files reveal astronauts saw mysterious objects and lights in 1972
NASA's Apollo 17 crew reported seeing three mysterious dots and sparks that resembled fireworks, according to new files released by the Pentagon.
Pentagon begins releasing UFO files: "It's time the American people see"
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said in a statement that the documents "have long fueled justified speculation — and it's time the American people see it for themselves."
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
Could birding keep your brain sharp in old age?
New research suggests birding may be good for the brain. There's evidence it could help guard the brain against dementia and age related cognitive decline. Bradley Blackburn reports.
5/17/2026: Betting on War; The Knowledge; Christopher Nolan
First, prediction market bets on war defy odds. Then, London's cabbies skeptical about robotaxis. And, Christopher Nolan: The 60 Minutes Interview.
5/17: CBS Weekend News
Fighter jets collide in midair at Idaho air show; Trump's approval ratings on the economy continue to fall in latest CBS News poll.
School using AI to reimagine learning
Alpha, a new school in San Francisco, isn't just embracing AI, it's letting it take the lead. Itay Hod has more.
WHO: Ebola outbreak a global health emergency
Outbreaks of the deadly Ebola virus in two African countries have prompted the World Health Organization to declare a global health emergency. Imtiaz Tyab reports.