U.S. markets suffered significant losses after President Trump’s new tariffs on 180 global trading partners took effect. The Dow Jones fell 4%, the S&P 500 4.8%, and the Nasdaq Composite 6%. Companies like Target, Lululemon, and Tesla were hit hard. Concerns about a trade war and potential recession loom amid the economic fallout. (UPI)
A series of storms from Oklahoma to Indiana led to tornadoes, violent winds, and flash floods, resulting in at least four deaths. The NWS forecasts life-threatening flash flooding and severe thunderstorms across the South and Midwest through Saturday. The violent weather is attributed to unstable atmospheric conditions and abundant moisture from the Gulf. (CBS News)
The Trump administration is exploring a TikTok deal allowing China to keep control of the algorithm leased to a U.S. company with minority ownership. An executive order may extend the deadline for selling or facing a U.S. ban. Concerns over national security, algorithm control, and liability protection complicate potential buyout negotiations. (ABC News)
USA Fencing disqualified a female fencer for refusing to compete against a transgender opponent in Maryland. The decision, following International Fencing Federation rules, resulted in her expulsion from the event. The athlete, Stephanie Turner, took a knee in protest, citing concerns about competing against a transgender participant, misgendering them. (NBC News)
The death toll from Los Angeles County wildfires has risen to 30 after human remains were found in Altadena. The remains are believed to be linked to one of two deadly wildfires that erupted in January. Identification is complex due to fire damage, with DNA analysis and other methods needed. The blazes are among the region’s deadliest and most destructive. (UPI)
