Historic firsts you may have missed in a turbulent 2020
From people like Kamala Harris to movies like "Parasite," many barriers were broken in 2020.
U.S.
Pennsylvania announces new COVID-19 restrictions
Governor Wolf said he tested positive for COVID-19 but was "feeling well" and didn't have any symptoms.
Taylor Swift to release second surprise album in 2020
"evermore," the sister album to "folklore," will debut at midnight.
Ellen DeGeneres tests positive for COVID-19
The talk show host said that she is "feeling fine right now."
Pelosi says lawmakers have made "great progress" on COVID relief bill
Pelosi said that she had "great respect" for the bicameral, bipartisan group of lawmakers engaged in negotiations.
Second gentleman to teach entertainment law at Georgetown
Law students will be able to sign up to take an entertainment law course taught by the vice president-elect's husband in the spring.
Airbnb, resilient in pandemic, goes public at $68 a share
Home-sharing company that upended hotels industry wants to expand in travel markets like India, China and Latin America.
U.S. no longer expected to see northern lights this week
Space weather officials on Thursday afternoon downgraded the forecast for the storm, eliminating the possibility of aurora borealis across the U.S.
Neo-Nazi group member gets prison for threatening journalists
The group's plot was "to have them all wake up one morning and find themselves terrorized by targeted propaganda."
Biden to nominate Tai for trade rep and McDonough for veterans affairs
Tai would be the first Asian American woman to be USTR. McDonough was President Obama's White House chief of staff.
U.S. B-52H bombers fly to Middle East in mission to deter Iran
"We do not seek conflict," Gen. Frank McKenzie said, "but we must remain postured and committed to respond to any contingency or in opposition to any aggression."
Mom of Black man killed by deputy: "My son was murdered in cold blood"
Casey Goodson Jr., 23, was fatally shot by a sheriff's deputy, and his family is fighting for an unbiased investigation.
Feds and 46 states file antitrust suit to split up Facebook
New York leads lawsuit accusing social media giant of illegally cementing its dominance by acquiring competitors.
Man serving 90-year sentence for selling marijuana is released
While serving a 90-year prison sentence, Richard DeLisi's wife died, as did his 23-year-old son and both his parents.
Answers to questions about the COVID-19 vaccine
CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook answers viewers' questions about the coronavirus vaccine.
Live
Trump lauds "very good meetings" as indirect U.S.-Iran talks resume
Vance says the U.S. has accomplished its "core mission" in Iran, as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner meet mediators in Qatar, but not Iranians.
U.S. helicopter goes down in Arabian Sea, crew member missing, Navy says
The helicopter, which was assigned to the USS George H.W. Bush, is not believed to have been taken down by hostile action, the Navy said.
Former CIA Director Brennan sues DOJ, Trump officials over criminal probes
Brennan is seeking a court order to force the preservation of records in the investigations targeting him. His attorneys say he's being "vindictively singled out for investigation."
More than 1,000 cases under review after Broadview Six misconduct revelations
More than 1,000 grand jury presentations are under review after charges were dismissed in the "Broadview Six" case due to grand jury abuses and prosecutorial misconduct, Chicago's top federal prosecutor said.
2 people climb to top of NYC's Empire State Building, appear to get engaged
Two people climbed to the top of the Empire State Building's transmission tower, unfurled a banner, and then apparently got engaged Wednesday afternoon.
This July 4th could be hottest ever in parts of U.S.
Extremely dangerous heat, coupled with humidity, could result in heat index readings of 100 to 115 degrees from the Midwest to the East Coast, forecasters said.
Trump takes first trip on Qatari-gifted Air Force One
President Trump is traveling Wednesday to North Dakota in what marks his first trip aboard the new Air Force One, which was gifted to the U.S. by the Qatari government last year.
Water safety tips as millions of Americans deal with intense heat wave
Ahead of the Fourth of July weekend, experts are warning about the dangers of rip currents and the importance of water safety.
New disease threats follow Trump administration's health program cuts
From screwworm to flesh-eating bacteria, mounting public health risks are emerging in the wake of deep cuts to federal health agencies and programs.
U.S.
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Couples are spending 8.5% more on weddings this year. Here's why.
Tariffs, inflation and changing consumer habits are reshaping how much Americans spend to tie the knot.
What is the "buy, borrow, die" tax strategy Gavin Newsom wants to ban?
As a proposed billionaire tax in California moves forward, Gov. Newsom says other approaches are needed, including closing a tax loophole used by the ultra-rich.
Former CIA Director John Brennan sues DOJ, Trump officials over criminal probes
Brennan is seeking a court order to force the preservation of records in the investigations targeting him. His attorneys say he's being "vindictively singled out for investigation."
U.S. says it won't extend key trade deal with Canada and Mexico
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement will remain in effect until it expires in 2036, unless the countries strike another deal to extend it.
U.S. helicopter goes down in Arabian Sea, crew member missing, Navy says
The helicopter, which was assigned to the USS George H.W. Bush, is not believed to have been taken down by hostile action, the Navy said.
MoneyWatch
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Couples are spending 8.5% more on weddings this year. Here's why.
Tariffs, inflation and changing consumer habits are reshaping how much Americans spend to tie the knot.
What is the "buy, borrow, die" tax strategy Gavin Newsom wants to ban?
As a proposed billionaire tax in California moves forward, Gov. Newsom says other approaches are needed, including closing a tax loophole used by the ultra-rich.
U.S. says it won't extend key trade deal with Canada and Mexico
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement will remain in effect until it expires in 2036, unless the countries strike another deal to extend it.
Sony to stop making physical discs for PlayStation starting in 2028
After January 2028, new games will be available exclusively in digital format from the PlayStation Store and at retailers, Sony said.
Anthropic says Trump admin. lifted restrictions on powerful Claude AI models
Artificial intelligence giant Anthropic says the federal government lifted a set of restrictions on its powerful Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5 models, resolving a weekslong dispute.
Politics
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Former CIA Director John Brennan sues DOJ, Trump officials over criminal probes
Brennan is seeking a court order to force the preservation of records in the investigations targeting him. His attorneys say he's being "vindictively singled out for investigation."
More than 1,000 cases under review after Broadview Six misconduct revelations
More than 1,000 grand jury presentations are under review after charges were dismissed in the "Broadview Six" case due to grand jury abuses and prosecutorial misconduct, Chicago's top federal prosecutor said.
U.S. says it won't extend key trade deal with Canada and Mexico
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement will remain in effect until it expires in 2036, unless the countries strike another deal to extend it.
Justice Department sues Virginia, California over gun laws
Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said "the Constitution is not a suggestion" and that "the Second Amendment is a sacred right belonging to all Americans."
Harvard professor known for alien theories to lead White House UFO council
Avi Loeb, a Harvard astronomer who has made headlines with his theories about alien encounters, will lead a White House scientific advisory council on UFOs.
HealthWatch
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Actor Danny Glover reveals Alzheimer's diagnosis
Actor Danny Glover spoke about his Alzheimer's diagnosis in an interview with NBC's "Today" show, revealing that he has been living with the disease for several years.
Medicare to help pay for some GLP-1 drugs
Starting Wednesday, Medicare will help pay for some GLP-1 medications for weight loss. CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Celine Gounder explains what this means for patients.
New disease threats follow Trump administration's health program cuts
From screwworm to flesh-eating bacteria, mounting public health risks are emerging in the wake of deep cuts to federal health agencies and programs.
What is the viral trend looksmaxxing?
Looksmaxxing is a viral and controversial trend that encourages young men to maximize their appearance. Adam Yamaguchi shows why it's resonating with some people.
He dreamed of becoming a physician assistant. New loan rules may thwart him.
Starting July 1, the government will cap what graduate students may borrow in federal loans, forcing many toward private lenders with higher interest rates.
World
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U.S. helicopter goes down in Arabian Sea, crew member missing, Navy says
The helicopter, which was assigned to the USS George H.W. Bush, is not believed to have been taken down by hostile action, the Navy said.
Dog pulled from rubble 5 days after Venezuela quakes, video shows
Dramatic video showed the moment a rescue team pulled a small dog from the rubble nearly a week after twin earthquakes devastated Venezuela.
How Iran could try to control the Strait of Hormuz — and profit from it
Some experts say the Strait of Hormuz will not return to its pre-war state, so what could the future of this vital shipping lane look like?
Live
Trump lauds "very good meetings" as indirect U.S.-Iran talks resume
Vance says the U.S. has accomplished its "core mission" in Iran, as Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner meet mediators in Qatar, but not Iranians.
At least 14 kids killed as Pakistan tutoring center's roof collapses
The roof of a private tutoring center in Lahore, Pakistan, collapsed, killing more than a dozen pupils and leaving at least eight more injured, authorities say.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
What we know about rumored Swift-Kelce wedding
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding festivities are expected to begin Thursday, sources said. Crews have been spotted at Madison Square Garden in New York City unloading equipment ahead of the July Fourth weekend. Here's what we know so far.
Swift-Kelce wedding events taking shape
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding events are set to begin in New York City, sources say. CBS News' Jo Ling Kent has the latest.
Sophia Bush, Jerry O'Connell on new comedy
Sophia Bush and Jerry O'Connell join CBS News 24/7 Mornings to discuss their new comedy, "Summer's Last Resort," which premieres on Tubi July 3.
Stars talk "Summer's Last Resort" comedy
Sophia Bush and Jerry O'Connell talk to "CBS Mornings" about starring in the coming-of-age comedy "Summer's Last Resort." Bush discusses what drew her to the project and says there was "never a dull day on set," while O'Connell reveals what his daughters thought about the film.
Actor Danny Glover reveals Alzheimer's diagnosis
Actor Danny Glover spoke about his Alzheimer's diagnosis in an interview with NBC's "Today" show, revealing that he has been living with the disease for several years.
Technology
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Technology
Why U.S. initially restricted Anthropic AI models
The Trump administration has lifted export restrictions on Anthropic's most advanced artificial intelligence models, Fable and Mythos, after weeks of negotiations over national security concerns. CNET Editor-in-Chief David Katzmaier joins to discuss.
White House lifted AI limits, Anthropic says
Tech giant Anthropic says that the federal government has now removed restrictions from its robust Claude Fable 5 and Mythos 5 models. Axios reporter Madison Mills has more on artificial intelligence regulation.
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.
Sony to stop making physical discs for PlayStation starting in 2028
After January 2028, new games will be available exclusively in digital format from the PlayStation Store and at retailers, Sony said.
Consumers need protection from AI agents, lawmaker says
Sen. Mark Warner wants to create a federal registry of trusted AI agents and ensure autonomous bots operate like fiduciaries.
Science
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Science
NASA strives to save doomed telescope
NASA is in a race against time as the Swift Observatory telescope in orbit sinks closer to Earth. CBS News consultant William Harwood explains the $30 million salvage operation.
Fossil found in drawer turns out to be first dinosaur bone from Antarctica
Dinosaur fossils are rare to find in Antarctica because of the unforgiving ice caps. But millions of years ago, the region was populated by lush forests.
NASA prepares to launch rescue to save telescope from falling to Earth
The $30 million salvage operation gets underway as soon as this week with the planned launch of a robotic lifesaver.
Astronomers find 2 gigantic planets lighter than cotton candy
The featherweight pair — orbiting a star 1,110 light-years away — are the biggest exoplanets found to have less density than cotton candy.
Ancient Egyptian burial site reveals centuries of changing traditions
Human and animal remains unearthed in Egypt's Nile Delta reveal changing funerary practices over some 600 years, and the evolution of a key site itself.
Crime
More Crime
More than 1,000 cases under review after Broadview Six misconduct revelations
More than 1,000 grand jury presentations are under review after charges were dismissed in the "Broadview Six" case due to grand jury abuses and prosecutorial misconduct, Chicago's top federal prosecutor said.
Potential charges for Empire State Building climbers
Two people climbed to the top of the Empire State Building Wednesday and unfurled a banner before seemingly getting engaged. CBS News law enforcement contributor Rodney Harrison has more on what repercussions the couple could face.
Couple climbs Empire State Building: Details
Two people climbed to the top of the Empire State Building in New York City on Wednesday, unfurling a banner and appearing to get engaged. CBS News' Tom Hanson and Shanelle Kaul have more.
3 in custody after CBS News Chicago crew attacked near Adler Planetarium
During the incident, a reporter and photographer were approached by three men, one with a dog, before their news truck and gear were destroyed.
U.S. announces new bank alert targeting powerful drug cartel
Two men and nine companies are accused of being tied to a cartel-linked fuel theft ring intended to evade taxes while generating tens of millions of dollars annually.
Space
More Space
NASA astronauts operate on space station's broken robot arm
The orbital surgery on the International Space Station returned the Canadian-built robot arm to full health after its "wrist" joint failed last month.
NASA prepares to launch rescue to save telescope from falling to Earth
The $30 million salvage operation gets underway as soon as this week with the planned launch of a robotic lifesaver.
Astronomers find 2 gigantic planets lighter than cotton candy
The featherweight pair — orbiting a star 1,110 light-years away — are the biggest exoplanets found to have less density than cotton candy.
Telescope snaps most detailed photo yet of Milky Way's heart
Euclid is on a mission to chart one-third of the sky in the hopes of shedding light on the enduring mysteries of dark matter and dark energy.
Interstellar comet may be oldest object ever seen in solar system
Exactly where the comet 3I/ATLAS came from within the Milky Way remains a mystery.
Latest Galleries
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Celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
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.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
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
6/27: CBS Weekend News
High winds and heat are fueling Utah's out-of-control wildfires; Iranian drones target Bahrain after U.S. strikes Iran.
Why U.S. initially restricted Anthropic AI models
The Trump administration has lifted export restrictions on Anthropic's most advanced artificial intelligence models, Fable and Mythos, after weeks of negotiations over national security concerns. CNET Editor-in-Chief David Katzmaier joins to discuss.
Trump responds to criticism of crypto earnings
President Trump responded to critics on Wednesday who say he's profiting off the presidency after a new financial disclosure showed he made over $1 billion on cryptocurrency ventures in 2025. Victor Reklaitis, Washington correspondent for MarketWatch, joins with analysis.
House lawmakers start July 4th recess early
House lawmakers began their July 4th recess early on Tuesday after some GOP members blocked Speaker Mike Johnson from merging the SAVE America Act with the annual defense policy bill, known as the National Defense Authorization Act. CBS News congressional correspondent Nikole Killion has more.
South Carolina woman shares her American story
For America's 250th anniversary, CBS News spoke to Karen Norris Newsome, a 74-year-old woman from Darlington County, South Carolina, about her childhood, her values and her quintessential Southern accent.