9/28: CBS News Mornings
U.S. soldier Travis King released by North Korea after border crossing; NASA astronaut and Russian cosmonauts back after 371-day mission.
Texas
Biden authorizes border wall construction
The Biden administration is reversing its course on border wall construction plans, even after condemning the policy instituted by former President Donald Trump. CBS News immigration reporter Camilo Montoya-Galvez has more on the major reversal.
Jury sentences "sadistic torturer" Alicia Calderon to 75 years
"Calderon tricked the victim into living with her, and then controlled her with unthinkable torture. She severely burned the victim's arms, chest, and back by pouring a pot of boiling water on her."
Texas Tribune Festival kicks off in Austin
Democrats descended on Austin, Texas late this week as The Texas Tribune kicked of it's annual three-day festival. Thousands of people attended panels covering everything from gun safety to politics. CBS News 2020 campaign reporter Ellee Watson joined CBSN for this edition of the 2020 Daily Trail Markers.
Suspect arrested in murder of Sarah Ferguson's former assistant
Ferguson said she was "shocked and saddened" to learn the news about Jenean Chapman, who was found dead in a suspected homicide, according to police.
Texas Lawmakers respond to federal judge's ruling striking down SB 12
This week, a federal judge in Houston blocked a new state law that cracks down on sexually oriented performances, including some drag shows.
Texas death row inmate ruled not competent to be executed
A federal judge ruled that Scott Panetti, a Texas death row inmate with a long history of mental illness, is not competent to be executed.
How a shutdown would hurt border towns
House Republicans have taken to messaging this week saying they won't pass any spending bill without legislation to address the crisis at the southern border. Dr. Victor Trevino is the mayor of the nation's largest inland point of entry in Laredo, Texas. He joined CBS News to discuss how detrimental a government shutdown would be to his city.
$10,000 bill sells for nearly half a million dollars at Texas auction
A vintage banknote and an even older coin collectively sold for nearly $1 million at a multi-day bidding event in Dallas.
Lawmakers: Shutdown may hinder border efforts
Several officials are warning that a government shutdown could significantly hinder efforts to improve conditions for border patrol agents, overwhelmed towns and migrants themselves. Texas Democratic Rep. Henry Cuellar joins "America Decides" to discuss.
El Paso mayor says city reaching breaking point
Thousands of migrants seeking asylum continue to cross the southern U.S. border daily. Mayors of border towns like El Paso, Texas, say they can't handle the influx. Manuel Bojorquez reports.
Nature: Gulf Coast of Texas
We leave you this Sunday morning with a sunrise off the Gulf Coast of Texas. Videographer: Scot Miller.
Family of Black student suspended for hairstyle sues Texas officials
The family of Darryl George filed a federal civil rights lawsuit on Saturday against Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton over his ongoing suspension by his school district for his hairstyle.
Migrant surge overwhelms Texas border towns
Migrant crossings at the southern border have nearly doubled from a few months ago. CBS News national correspondent Manuel Bojorquez has more from El Paso.
2-time AL MVP Juan González, one of baseball's best sluggers in the '90s, honored by Texas Rangers
One of baseball's best sluggers in the 1990s, González is still the Texas career leader.
DeSantis unveils energy agenda
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis described his plans to "restore America's energy independence" while seemingly downplaying the effects of climate change during a visit to Midland, Texas, on Wednesday. CBS News reporter Aaron Navarro outlines the governor's agenda.
Blend of Hispanic culture and Cowboys fandom drives "Cowboys Life Car Club"
You already know CBS celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month but so do the Cowboys!
New novel satirizes Texas politics
Politics can be a dirty business -- and nowhere may that be truer than in the Texas Statehouse. The new novel "Mr. Texas" takes aim at just that -- with a satirical look at the king-makers and power brokers in the Lone Star State. Author Lawrence Wright joins CBS News to discuss what went into writing the book.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton acquitted in impeachment trial
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was acquitted by the GOP-led state Senate on all 16 articles of impeachment.
Senate begins deliberations in Paxton impeachment trial
If state Attorney General Ken Paxton is convicted of any of the articles of impeachment, he will be removed from office.
What the new DACA ruling means for "Dreamers"
A federal judge in Texas once again ruled the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program -- or DACA -- is illegal. CBS News immigration reporter Camilo Montoya-Galvez joins "Prime Time" to discuss what the decision means for hundreds of thousands of immigrants in the U.S.
Migrant center for minors reopens in Texas
The Biden administration this week reopened a housing facility for unaccompanied migrant children previously at the center of reports of poor living conditions, in response to a marked increase in crossings along the southern border, two U.S. officials familiar with the move told CBS News. CBS News immigration reporter Camilo Montoya-Galvez reports.
Testimony of woman who allegedly had affair with Texas AG called off at impeachment trial
Ken Paxton's alleged affair is not one of the charges of impeachment, but he is accused of engaging in bribery related to the affair.
U.S. reopens troubled facility for migrant children in Texas
In response to an increase in border crossings by unaccompanied minors, the Biden administration is housing migrant children in a former work camp, for a second time.
Ken Paxton's wife attends his impeachment trial amid affair allegations
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has been accused of misusing his office to cover up an alleged affair, among other charges.
DOJ faces continued backlash over limited Epstein files release
The Justice Department is facing continued backlash over its partial releases of the Epstein files, with lawmakers and survivors denouncing the limited nature of the disclosures.
Trump admin says it's halting offshore wind projects over security risk
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said the agency is pausing leases for five offshore wind farms "due to national security concerns."
Bondi Beach gunmen got firearms training together, police say
The man police say killed 15 people at Sydney's Bondi Beach along with his father obtained firearms training with him, documents show.
Vance tries to unify conservatives as rifts exposed at Turning Point USA
Rifts over the direction of the conservative movement emerged during Turning Point USA's conference, as speakers attacked each other by name.
Barry Manilow reveals lung cancer diagnosis, cancels concerts due to surgery
The singer said an MRI showed a cancerous spot on one of his lungs after he recovered from a lengthy bout of bronchitis.
Denmark summoning U.S. ambassador after Trump names special envoy to Greenland
The president's move angered Danish officials. Greenland is a Danish autonomous territory he's often expressed interest in obtaining.
U.S. Coast Guard pursuing third oil tanker off Venezuela coast, source says
If caught and seized, it would be the third Venezuelan tanker taken by the U.S. this month.
Russian general killed by bomb under his car in Moscow
A Russian general was killed when a bomb detonated under his car in Moscow and investigators said Ukraine could be behind the attack.
Chris Rea, British singer of "Driving Home for Christmas," dies at 74
Chris Rea found fame in the 1980s in Britain with hits such as "Fool (If You Think It's Over)" and "Let's Dance."
U.S.
More U.S.
Flu season is ramping up, and some experts are "pretty worried"
Doctors and scientists say this year's influenza season could be tougher than usual, with a new version of the flu virus, called H3N2, spreading quickly.
Barry Manilow reveals lung cancer diagnosis, cancels concerts due to surgery
The singer said an MRI showed a cancerous spot on one of his lungs after he recovered from a lengthy bout of bronchitis.
DOJ faces continued backlash over limited Epstein files release
The Justice Department is facing continued backlash over its partial releases of the Epstein files, with lawmakers and survivors denouncing the limited scope of the disclosures.
Instacart to end AI price tests for retailers following investigation
Instacart had drawn criticism for testing an AI-based system that enabled retailers to charge different prices for the same grocery items.
Trump admin says it's halting offshore wind projects over security risk
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said the agency is pausing leases for five offshore wind farms "due to national security concerns."
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Instacart to end AI price tests for retailers following investigation
Instacart had drawn criticism for testing an AI-based system that enabled retailers to charge different prices for the same grocery items.
Trump admin says it's halting offshore wind projects over security risk
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said the agency is pausing leases for five offshore wind farms "due to national security concerns."
Jim Beam to pause production at its main distillery on Jan. 1
The main distillery will be closed for site enhancements, the company said. The pause comes after whiskey production has dropped amid a challenging year.
Rome introduces tourist fee for some Trevi fountain visitors
Tourists visiting the Trevi Fountain are now going to pay more than just the legendary coin toss over their shoulder.
Want to work in AI? Here are the skills to master, economist says
Rapid emergence of AI will foster demand for new types of workers, including "explainers" and bias auditors, according to economist Robert Seamans.
Politics
More Politics
Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani to be sworn in by Letitia James, Bernie Sanders
New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani will be sworn in by two prominent Democrats on New Year's Day.
DOJ faces continued backlash over limited Epstein files release
The Justice Department is facing continued backlash over its partial releases of the Epstein files, with lawmakers and survivors denouncing the limited scope of the disclosures.
Trump admin says it's halting offshore wind projects over security risk
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said the agency is pausing leases for five offshore wind farms "due to national security concerns."
Vance tries to unify conservatives as rifts exposed at Turning Point USA
Rifts over the direction of the conservative movement emerged during Turning Point USA's conference, as speakers attacked each other by name.
Exclusive
DHS offers undocumented migrants $3,000 if they self-deport by end of 2025
The Department of Homeland Security has tripled its "exit bonus" offered to undocumented migrants who voluntarily leave the United States by Dec. 31, 2025.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
Flu season is ramping up, and some experts are "pretty worried"
Doctors and scientists say this year's influenza season could be tougher than usual, with a new version of the flu virus, called H3N2, spreading quickly.
Finding hope through cancer clinical trials
#LillyPartner Cancer clinical trials can offer patients access to investigational treatments that can be explored as early as the time of diagnosis. Ovarian cancer survivor Alicia Dellario and Dr. Arjun Balar, senior vice president of global clinical development at Eli Lilly and Company, join "CBS Mornings" to talk about the potential benefits of cancer clinical trials -- and clarify common misconceptions. Visit cancerclinicaltrials.lilly.com for more information. (Sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company)
Details on new flu strain as cases rise
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates there have been 4.6 million flu cases across the U.S. since the season began. Dr. Amanda Kravitz, a pediatrician at Weill Cornell in New York, explains what to know about rising cases, symptoms to watch for and how to protect your family.
Flu cases surging nationwide
Flu cases are on the rise across the country with CDC data showing more than 4 million illnesses this season resulting in roughly 2,000 deaths, including two children. Dr. Benjamin Abella, chair of emergency medicine at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City, joined CBS News to discuss.
This professional Santa's dream of spreading holiday cheer fuels stroke recovery
Brent Rasmussen had a massive stroke in 2023. Getting his "ho ho ho back" helped motivate his recovery.
World
More World
Chris Rea, British singer of "Driving Home for Christmas," dies at 74
Chris Rea found fame in the 1980s in Britain with hits such as "Fool (If You Think It's Over)" and "Let's Dance."
Bondi Beach gunmen got firearms training together, police say
The man police say killed 15 people at Sydney's Bondi Beach along with his father obtained firearms training with him, documents show.
Denmark summoning U.S. ambassador after Trump names special envoy to Greenland
Denmark says it will summon the U.S. ambassador after President Trump appointed a special envoy to Greenland, the Danish autonomous territory he has often expressed interest in.
Russian general killed by bomb under his car in Moscow
A Russian general was killed when a bomb detonated under his car in Moscow and investigators said Ukraine could be behind the attack.
12 bodies found outside Guatemala City linked to gang violence, officials say
At least 12 bodies were found in three days in a wooded area on the outskirts of Guatemala City, authorities said Sunday, linking the discovery to gang violence.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Barry Manilow reveals lung cancer diagnosis, cancels concerts due to surgery
The singer said an MRI showed a cancerous spot on one of his lungs after he recovered from a lengthy bout of bronchitis.
Chris Rea, British singer of "Driving Home for Christmas," dies at 74
Chris Rea found fame in the 1980s in Britain with hits such as "Fool (If You Think It's Over)" and "Let's Dance."
Actor James Ransone, known for his role in "The Wire," dies at 46
James Ransone, the actor who played Ziggy Sobotka in the HBO series "The Wire" and appeared in many other TV shows and movies, has died.
Young People's Chorus of NYC: "Jolly Toyland"
To mark the Christmas season, "Sunday Morning" presents a performance by the Young People's Chorus of New York City, of "Jolly Toyland," arranged by Francisco J. Nunez.
Young People's Chorus of NYC: "Deck the Halls"
"Sunday Morning" gifts to its viewers a Christmas tradition: a performance by the Young People's Chorus of New York City. They present "Deck the Halls," arranged by Francisco J. Nunez and Jim Papoulis.
Technology
More Technology
Technology
Top tech gadgets of 2025
Timothy Werth, a tech editor at Mashable, joins "CBS News 24/7" to discuss the best gadgets of 2025.
Instacart to end AI price tests for retailers following investigation
Instacart had drawn criticism for testing an AI-based system that enabled retailers to charge different prices for the same grocery items.
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.
Want to work in AI? Here are the skills to master, economist says
Rapid emergence of AI will foster demand for new types of workers, including "explainers" and bias auditors, according to economist Robert Seamans.
DraftKings hopes to score big with new prediction markets app
Sports betting companies face mounting competition from rapidly growing prediction markets such as Kalshi and Polymarket.
Science
More Science
Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Fossil footprints in Bolivia reveal dinosaurs' awkward attempts to swim
Paleontologists have discovered and documented 16,600 footprints left by theropods, the dinosaur group that includes the Tyrannosaurus rex.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Video shows shoplifting suspect pulling gun
A video from an Ohio Walmart shows a shoplifting suspect pulling a gun on officers while being questioned in a security room. CBS News' Adriana Diaz reports.
Trump targets more Venezuelan oil tankers
The Trump administration seized a second oil tanker near Venezuela and announced a third is being pursued, a U.S. official tells CBS News. This comes as lawmakers react to the Justice Department's release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein. CBS News' Jarred Hill reports.
Search underway for swimmer missing at Pacific Grove's Lovers Point in possible shark attack
Search efforts are underway in Pacific Grove after a swimmer went missing Sunday afternoon.
Khanna on full Epstein file release
Reps. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, and Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, who pushed for the Justice Department to release the Jeffrey Epstein files, said the problem with the release isn't that it's "taking too long" and but that Friday's release is a "slap in the face of survivors."
Police seek motive in deadly shootings
Authorities are seeking motive after the man responsible for the deadly shooting at Brown University and the murder of an MIT professor was found dead in a New Hampshire storage unit on Thursday.
Space
More Space
Space
NASA's search for next lunar rover
NASA astronauts took their first drive on the moon 54 years ago. Now, three companies are competing for a NASA contract to build a new lunar rover for use starting with the Artemis 5 mission in 2030. Kris Van Cleave reports.
Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
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.
"Son of Sam": A serial killer's reign of terror
Calling himself the "Son of Sam" in a letter left at one of the crime scenes, David Berkowitz claimed voices were ordering him to kill -- starting in the summer of 1976, he went on a 13-month spree of impulse killings in New York City that left six dead and seven injured
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Top tech gadgets of 2025
Timothy Werth, a tech editor at Mashable, joins "CBS News 24/7" to discuss the best gadgets of 2025.
Breaking down the growing Republican rift
Turning Point USA, the organization co-founded by slain political activist Charlie Kirk, held an event over the weekend that highlighted a growing rift among members of the conservative movement after speakers made various jabs at one another. CBS News' Fin Gomez has the latest.
Teaching children gratitude during holidays
Lisa Damour, a clinical psychologist and author, joins "CBS News 24/7" to discuss how parents can teach children gratitude during the holidays.
Russian general killed in car bombing
A Russian general was killed in a car bombing in Moscow on Monday, authorities said. CBS News foreign correspondent Ramy Inocencio has the latest.
U.S. pursues another oil tanker, source says
The U.S. is pursuing a third oil tanker near Venezuela, a U.S. official tells CBS News. Last week, President Trump announced a blockade of all sanctioned oil vessels leaving or entering the country's waters. CBS News' Willie James Inman has more.