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by Blaze Media Feb 13, 2026

'What the f**k?' HGTV cancels 'Rehab Addict' over host Nicole Curtis' slur on leaked tape

New episodes of HGTV's hit home restoration show "Rehab Addict" were scheduled to air this week after host Nicole Curtis' brief hiatus. On the same day of the show's scheduled return, however, years-old leaked footage was published by RadarOnline showing Curtis mindlessly uttering a slur during a renovation.Warner Bros. Discovery-owned HGTV promptly removed every episode of the show. Future episodes have been canceled.'I make no excuse for this.'"HGTV was recently made aware of an offensive racial comment made during the filming of 'Rehab Addict,'" the network said in a statement to Variety. "Not only is language like this hurtful and disappointing to our viewers, partners, and employees — it does not align with the values of HGTV. Accordingly, we have removed the series from all HGTV platforms."The show-killing viral video appears to show Curtis growing increasingly frustrated during a restoration job and muttering, "Oh fart n*****."Realizing immediately what she had just said on camera, Curtis turns to her crew with a look of panic, stating, "What the f**k is that that I just said?"Curtis appears to ask someone off-screen to "kill that," in reference to the video evidence — which clearly didn't take place.It's clear that someone behind the scenes had it out for the historic-house-saving mother.RadarOnline's source, who indicated the footage was years-old, said, "You [Nicole] deserve everything you get. Treat us with dignity and respect, and quit making money off of our backs. ... You are a trash human."The host of the now-erased nine-season series said in a lengthy Instagram post on Thursday, "I am sorry. I am filled with remorse and regret, just as much as I was one second after that word was said 4 years ago in 2022."RELATED: Deace: The Pam Bondi Show needs to be canceled Photo by Paul Marotta/Getty Images for Cost Plus World Marke"I show this, I say this and I realize you are getting a limited view as what has been circulating is a clip of MY footage that was stolen then manipulated, edited and sold to [a] tabloid to coincide with my return to television only to create this chaos of hate, anger, disappointment," Curtis continued. "I make no excuse for this. I am not [a] victim. Nothing I say or do will take that moment 4 years ago away. I know it was wrong. This will never happen again."The ex-host proceeded to suggest that she has been "submerged in the African American community" her entire life and that she has chosen "to live and work in the inner cities of many major cities," where she apparently hears that word used routinely.While there were plenty of people apparently happy to see Curtis' life ruined over a poor choice of words several years ago, she also had many defenders — and at least one job offer — in the wake of her cancellation. Curtis is hardly the first reality television star canceled over racially charged language.For instance, the late Hulk Hogan was fired from World Wrestling Entertainment in 2015 over his liberal use of the word "n*****" on tapes recorded nearly a decade earlier. American chef and prolific cookbook author Paula Deen was systematically canceled and stigmatized in the wake of allegations of racial discrimination and the repeated use of a certain slur.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 13, 2026

Perjury, drugs, and counterfeiting — Trump pardons 5 former NFL players

President Donald Trump has granted pardons to former NFL players whose crimes will certainly raise some eyebrows.The announcement was made by White House pardon czar Alice Marie Johnson, who was pardoned herself by Trump in 2020 after serving 22 years in prison.'Mercy changes lives.'"Today, the President granted pardons to five former NFL players. ... As football reminds us, excellence is built on grit, grace, and the courage to rise again. So is our nation," Johnson wrote on X.The five ex-NFL players are Billy Cannon, Travis Henry, Joe Klecko, Jamal Lewis, and Nate Newton. Cannon is the only deceased member of the group.Henry, a former Buffalo Bills and Tennessee Titans running back, made it to the Pro Bowl in 2002. However, in 2008 as a member of the Denver Broncos, Henry was arrested after authorities in Montana caught him with 6 pounds of marijuana and more than 6 pounds of cocaine. He trafficked cocaine between Colorado and Montana, the DOJ claimed. He was sentenced to three years in federal prison but was released after two.Lewis, a former Baltimore Raven, won a Super Bowl with the team in 2001, along with a bevy of awards throughout his career. He also has the second-most rushing yards in a single game in NFL history. In 2004, Lewis reached a plea agreement with prosecutors after being charged with conspiring to possess cocaine with the intent to distribute and using a cell phone in the commission of the first count. He served four months in prison and went on to play in the NFL until 2009.RELATED: EXPOSED: Did the NFL have a secret plot to SABOTAGE the TPUSA halftime show? Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images A federal grand jury indicted 67 people in 1992, including former New York Jets defensive tackle Klecko. Klecko was allegedly connected to an insurance fraud scheme; UPI reported that an insurance company in New Jersey conspired with body shops and claimants to submit phony claims for paint damage caused by emissions from an oil refinery.Klecko pleaded guilty to perjury in 1993 and served three months in prison.Newton, a former Dallas Cowboys player between 1986 and 1998, is a three-time Super Bowl champion and six-time Pro Bowl player. The offensive guard was sentenced to 30 months in prison in 2002 after police found 175 pounds of marijuana in his car. He admitted he planned to drive the load to Houston, Texas, from a nearby county.RELATED: It's all 'globalism': Jack Posobiec tells Glenn Beck the NFL was furious over TPUSA's Super Bowl halftime show Bettman/Getty Images Cannon played for the Houston Oilers and Oakland Raiders in the 1960s, was a Heisman Trophy winner, and was a three-time AFL champion. He pleaded guilty to counterfeiting money in the 1980s, according to the New York Post. He spent more than two years in prison. He died in 2018 at the age of 80.Johnson called it a "blessed day" when the pardons were granted, adding that she was grateful to the president for his "continued commitment to second chances.""Mercy changes lives," she added.In November, Trump pardoned former MLB player Darryl Strawberry for 30-year-old tax fraud charges. In 1995, Strawberry pleaded guilty to a single count of tax evasion over a failure to report nearly $500,000 in income he made off of baseball cards and autograph signings between 1986 and 1990.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 13, 2026

Florida man chases alleged armed crooks out of his home, rams their SUV into ditch — but trio flee on foot into woods

The sheriff's office in Bay County, Florida, said officers responded Tuesday to a reported home invasion robbery at a residence in the 8200 block of Random Road. The area is about 10 minutes north of Panama City Beach.Patrol deputies made contact with the victim, who reported that two masked suspects entered his home while he was sleeping and stole a large amount of cash, officials said.He said Swartz earlier in the evening contacted him by phone requesting to visit his home and stating that she got his number through a mutual acquaintance, officials said.The victim stated he confronted the suspects inside the residence and chased them out, officials said, adding that the suspects then fled in their SUV.The victim then entered his own vehicle and pursued the SUV off Random Road and eastbound on Highway 388, officials said.During the chase, the victim reported striking the suspect vehicle multiple times in an attempt to stop it, officials said, adding that after the final impact, the suspect vehicle swerved and crashed into a ditch.When deputies arrived, they learned that the occupants of the crashed vehicle fled on foot into a nearby wooded area, officials said.Investigators soon learned that the crashed vehicle was registered to 22-year-old Sarra Swartz, officials said. While processing the scene, investigators found a large amount of cash in the vehicle and on the ground near the driver’s door, officials said, adding that the cash appeared consistent with the victim’s report of money taken during the home invasion. The victim amid the investigation also provided additional information about events preceding the robbery, officials said.RELATED: Florida home invader threatens homeowner with weapon, advances toward him, refuses to leave. But crook picks wrong victim. Image source: Bay County (Fla.) Sheriff's OfficeHe said Swartz earlier in the evening contacted him by phone requesting to visit his home and stating that she got his number through a mutual acquaintance, officials said.The victim agreed, and Swartz arrived soon after and remained at the residence for about 15 to 30 minutes before leaving, officials said.The victim added that he displayed a large amount of cash while giving money to his girlfriend — and while Swartz was present — which may have been observed, officials said.After Swartz left, the victim fell asleep, officials said, after which he said his girlfriend woke him up screaming that individuals were taking his money.The victim saw two masked males inside the residence, officials said, and described one as a tall, larger white male and the other as a shorter black male armed with a baseball bat. The victim’s girlfriend also reported seeing what appeared to be a handgun in the possession of one of the suspects, officials said.Deputies detained one suspect in the woods, later identified as 37-year-old James Crowe, officials said, adding that Crowe provided information identifying two additional suspects and detailed events leading up to and following the robbery. As the search continued, investigators found Swartz walking along a road west of the crash site, officials said.A short time later, investigators saw the third suspect, Devarius Stewart, seated in the passenger seat of a vehicle stopped in the area, officials said.Stewart initially refused commands to exit the vehicle, officials said. However, with the arrival of additional units, Stewart and Swartz were detained and transported to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office for interviews, officials said.RELATED: Armed Florida homeowner fights back against 4 thugs who reportedly try to force their way into his residence (L to R) James Crowe, Sarra Swartz, Devarius Stewart. Image source: Bay County (Fla.) Jail, compositeCrowe, Swartz, and Stewart were arrested and charged with home invasion robbery with a deadly weapon, officials said.Bay County Jail records indicate that all three remained behind bars Friday morning; Swartz's bond is $75,000, Stewart's bond is $100,000, and Crowe is being held without bond. Records also indicate that Crowe faces an additional charge of possession of a weapon by a convicted felon; his bond is $20,000 for that charge.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 13, 2026

EXPOSED: Did the NFL have a secret plot to SABOTAGE the TPUSA halftime show?

The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most powerful cultural platforms in the world, and Turning Point USA’s Jack Posobiec was well aware that challenging would not be easy — but the organization took it on anyway.“I’ve heard the NFL tried to get you guys not to do it,” Blaze Media co-founder Glenn Beck says to Posobiec.“So here’s what I can say. … Kid Rock himself came up — Bob came out and said, ‘It’s David and Goliath,’” Posobiec explains.“This is what he was referring to because I knew that by picking a fight with the biggest cabal in America … we’re talking Hollywood, we’re talking corporate America, the biggest sports event in the country — the most money that goes into this thing because it has the most cultural power — that we were going up against Goliath,” he says. “I don’t think we realized the ways that they can get you — the ways that they can gatekeep you and block you. Now, look, I’m not going to sit here and say that I, you know, I have an email from Roger Goodell that says, ‘You shall not do this,’ right?” he continues. “This is the way that these elite events work is that it’s a trickle-down system, but they’re all connected through the sponsorships, the advertisers, the venues, the musicians, the music rights, the labels,” he adds. Posobiec points out that there were times where artists would say, “Love to do it; can’t wait.” “But then something would always happen, Glenn, somewhere along the line in that conversation, with — I want to say at a very large percentage of people we talked to, suddenly it was, ‘Oh, you know, something came up and we just can’t do it,’” he tells Glenn. “And then they play games with the rights to the songs as well … because the publishers and the licensers have the song,” he explains, noting that the organization would have been sued to the tune of “tens of millions in liabilities” because “somewhere back in the office someone says ‘No Turning Point USA.’” “This happens all the time in our world,” Glenn responds, “but it only happens, Jack, when you’re making a difference.” “That shows how terrified they were of this,” he adds. Want more from Glenn Beck?To enjoy more of Glenn’s masterful storytelling, thought-provoking analysis, and uncanny ability to make sense of the chaos, subscribe to BlazeTV — the largest multi-platform network of voices who love America, defend the Constitution, and live the American dream.

by Blaze Media Feb 12, 2026

French fry dispute between friends ends with bullet to the head, cops say

It started with a dispute between two Texas friends over sharing french fries and ended with one of them shooting the other in the head, Fort Worth police said.Police said officers were dispatched around 6:30 p.m. Jan. 28 to an apartment complex near the 9500 block of Jeremiah Drive in reference to a shooting.'He didn't think he was going to get shot, especially over french fries that [were] his.'Officers arrived on scene and found an adult male victim with an apparent gunshot wound to his head, police said.Detectives with the Gun Violence Unit learned that an argument between friends had taken place over an order of french fries that the victim did not want to share with the suspect, police said.A verbal argument between the two escalated to a shooting, police said, adding that the suspect fled the apartment after the shooting. Detectives interviewed multiple witnesses and have identified the suspected shooter, who was known to live in the same apartment complex, police said.However, police said they did not locate the suspect after conducting a search of the area and apartment complex.Officers began CPR on the shooting victim until Fort Worth Fire EMS relieved them, police said. The victim was taken to a local hospital but was pronounced dead several hours later, police said.Lemarques Darden, 18, was arrested Monday and faces a murder charge in connection with the shooting death of 19-year-old Jarvis Davis, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported.The paper said Darden was booked into the Fort Worth City Jail. By Tuesday, he was booked into the Tarrant County Corrections Center; jail records on Thursday indicate Darden is still behind bars with no bond.Davis' mother, Sherika Kennedy, told the Star-Telegram that a Wingstop meal was nearly over at the apartment when the argument between the two friends erupted.Kennedy told the paper that when Davis declined to share his fries, the suspect got angry and fired a bullet into Davis' head. Kennedy's son died several hours later in the trauma intensive care unit of Harris Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth, police told the Star-Telegram.RELATED: Thug allegedly stabs to death Macy's security guard — just minutes after guard caught him trying to steal hats and let him go "He didn't think he was going to get shot, especially over french fries that [were] his," Kennedy told the paper.The Star-Telegram added that Davis had lived in Fort Worth for a year but grew up in Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana. He moved with his family to Texas in 2020, settling in Lewisville, his mother told the paper."He was only 19, with his whole future ahead of him," Kennedy wrote in a GoFundMe post. "He was a loving son, a protective brother, and a fun-loving uncle to his three nieces. He brought laughter, energy, and love to those around him, and his absence has left a deep void in our hearts."Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 12, 2026

'Gaslighting s**t': Joe Rogan questions the official Epstein narrative after latest files dump becomes personal

In a recent episode of "The Joe Rogan Experience," host Joe Rogan and his guest reacted to the new Epstein files release, including a very personal detail for Rogan.Rogan and guest Cheryl Hines, who is best known for her role in the HBO series "Curb Your Enthusiasm," discussed the bizarre findings of the new Epstein files, which included over 3 million documents, and pointed out the inadequacy of the government's handling of the case.'I'm in the files for not going because Jeffrey Epstein was trying to meet with me.'Rogan's producer pulled up an article headline from the Associated Press that read, "FBI concluded Jeffrey Epstein wasn't running a sex trafficking ring for powerful men, files show." Asked for the provenance of the article, Rogan's producer said, "It was going around the internet today."RELATED: 'Smoking Gun': Yale prof nearly blown up by Unabomber defends his Epstein emails Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images"Oh, today?" said Hines, who is married to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy. "I thought that was from 2005.""That's the gaslightiest gaslighting s**t I've ever heard in my life," Rogan said. "What do they think is going on? Just a bunch of fun? A bunch of guys hanging out, being fellas? Having cocktails, talking about science?"Prior to that exchange, Rogan also mentioned to Hines that he was in the files, but not for the reason people think."I'm in the files for not going because Jeffrey Epstein was trying to meet with me," Rogan said.The New York Post suggested that Canadian theoretical physicist Lawrence Krauss had attempted to introduce Rogan and Epstein back in 2017, citing an email exchange that was released in the latest files dump."I was like, 'B***h, are you high?'" Rogan recalled asking about the man who tried to connect him to Epstein.Hines asked him if he was glad that he never went to meet Epstein, to which Rogan replied, "I would have never went anyway. It's not even a possibility that I would have went — especially after I Googled him."Krauss did not respond to a request for comment from Blaze News. Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 12, 2026

'GayDays' at Disney World on ice after sponsors pull out

In yet another sign of a reverse in cultural trends, the organizers of the annual "GayDays" at Disney World announced the event has been put on "pause" this year after several sponsors dropped out.The event usually lasts for several days and occurs in June during LGBTQ+ Pride Month. This year's event would have been the 35th anniversary at the Orlando resort in Florida.Another post promotes 'glory holes,' 'dark corners,' and adult film stars at a 'carnal adventure.'"After careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to pause the GayDays Orlando event scheduled for June 2026," the statement reads."Changes to our host hotel agreement, the loss of key sponsorship support, and broader challenges currently impacting LGBTQIA+ events nationwide made it impossible to deliver the experience our community deserves," the organizers added.However, the company added that it was only a "pause" and not completely ended."For more than 30 years, GayDays has been built by and for our community. Our focus now is on reimagining the future and returning with a stronger, more sustainable event," they added. "We will share updates in the coming months as we shape the next chapter together. Thank you for your support, your patience, and for being part of the GayDays family."The event is not officially recognized by Disney but was rather a fan-organized independent meetup that was supported by local hotels and other businesses."Gay Days is just really a vacation gathering of gays and lesbians from around the world, and straight people," said Chris Alexander-Manley, an organizer of the event, in an interview from 2002.Critics of the event have opposed it based on anecdotal reports of excessive displays of public affection at the park, inappropriately revealing attire worn by LGBTQ+ members, and other related events that do not align with the family theme of Disney parks.RELATED: 'Go f*** yourself!' Elon Musk rips into Disney and other advertisers dropping from X platform On social media, GayDays promotes "Drag Bingo" as well as "Porn Star Bingo" among its events at a pool party. Another post promotes "glory holes," "dark corners," and adult film stars at a "carnal adventure" for those "who seek uninhibited freedom, raw connection, and pulse-pounding thrills.""You will get laid!" reads a sign from a mostly undressed man in the media image.Prominent sponsors of the event in the past included Showtime and Bud Light.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 12, 2026

Trump invites all governors to annual dinner except two Democrats — and Newsom isn't one of them

President Trump took to Truth Social this week to set the record straight regarding the invitation list for the upcoming governors' dinner at the White House. On Wednesday, President Trump took some shots at governors from both sides of the political aisle in his effort to clarify some "incorrectly stated" facts about the dinner. 'I even invited the SLOB of a Governor, JB Pritzker, and horrendous California Governor, Gavin Newscum, to the Dinner.'Trump first called out the "RINO" governor of Oklahoma, Kevin Stitt, for saying that Trump intended to invite Republican governors only. "That is false! The invitations were sent to ALL Governors, other than two, who I feel are not worthy of being there."RELATED: 'She is putting a target on their backs': New Jersey governor launches online portal to track ICE agents Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver PostHe went on to single out the two Democratic governors who did not receive an invitation — Jared Polis of Colorado and Wes Moore of Maryland — and gave several reasons for their unworthiness to attend."I did not invite the Governor of Colorado, who has unfairly incarcerated in solitary confinement a 73-year-old cancer stricken woman (A nine year term!), for attempting to fight Democrat Voter Fraud, plus the foul mouthed Governor of Maryland, who fraudulently stated that he received Military medals, A LIE, is doing a terrible job on the rebuilding of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, and has allowed Baltimore to continue to be a Crime Disaster."Trump, of course, was referring to the high-profile case of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters in Colorado. The Francis Scott Key Bridge was destroyed in late March 2024 when a ship rammed into one of its piers.While Polis and Moore were not invited, Trump extended invitations to the rest, including some of his biggest detractors. However, he did not miss the opportunity to call them out as well. "I even invited the SLOB of a Governor, JB Pritzker, and horrendous California Governor, Gavin Newscum, to the Dinner, despite the terrible job that they are doing. So, as usual with him, Stitt got it WRONG! The Invitations were sent out to all other Governors, Democrat and Republican," Trump said. "I look forward to seeing the Republican Governors, and some of the Democrats Governors who were worthy of being invited, but most of whom won’t show up."Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 12, 2026

Florida felon named Blackie accused of pointing gun at vehicle in fit of road rage

A Florida felon is accused of pointing a gun at a vehicle in a fit of road rage over the weekend.The Walton County Sheriff's Office said it received a 911 call around 1 p.m. Sunday about a male pointing a firearm at them while traveling north on 331 S near Sherwood Road.'When you put all your skill points into chaos and none into dental.'Officials said the Office of the City Marshal, DeFuniak Springs Police located the suspected vehicle as well as the driver — identified as Blackie Alvarez, 33, of Bonifay.Alvarez then exited the vehicle, pulled a black handgun from his waistband, and placed it on top of his car, officials said.What's more, two metal knuckles were found in his pockets, officials said.Further investigation revealed the victims were headed north on 331 S when Alvarez — driving a white Ford Explorer — began speeding and honking at them, officials said.The victims told deputies that Alvarez sped around them, came to a complete stop in front of their vehicle, took out a firearm, and pointed it at them, officials said. The sheriff's office characterized it as a "road rage incident."Alvarez refused to speak with deputies, the sheriff's office added.RELATED: Motorist fatally shoots road rager wielding baseball bat — and DA issues ruling Image source: Walton County (Fla.) Sheriff's OfficeOfficials said Alvarez was criminally charged with two felony counts of false imprisonment, two felony counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, one felony count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, two counts of unlawful carry of a concealed weapon, and driving without a license.In addition, Alvarez also had a warrant from Bay County for failure to pay child support, officials said.Alvarez was given a $235,000 bond, officials said. Jail records reviewed on Thursday morning indicate he remains incarcerated.The sheriff's office Facebook post about the arrest has drawn more than 3,000 comments; the following are a handful of notable entries:"A jump-scare warning would've been nice!" one commenter quipped."When you put all your skill points into chaos and none into dental," another user observed."Don't chew on grenades," another commenter suggested."He’s already started shaking down the tooth fairy for bail money," another user opined.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 12, 2026

Newsom’s EV push: Can Detroit break free from California’s influence?

While Washington has pulled back on electric vehicle mandates and emissions enforcement, California is moving in the opposite direction — and the nation’s largest automakers are paying close attention. Late last month. executives from the Detroit Three met with regulators from the California Air Resources Board, reopening a conversation that has become increasingly consequential for the future of the U.S. auto industry and consumer vehicle choice.For automakers, the lesson is familiar. Regulatory swings are inevitable, but market access is permanent.The meeting came at a pivotal moment. Congress has revoked California’s long-standing authority to set its own vehicle emissions standards, federal fuel economy rules have been weakened, and financial penalties for missing emissions targets have been eliminated. Yet California is signaling it has no intention of slowing its push toward zero-emission transportation.Instead, the state is preparing to launch a $200 million electric vehicle incentive program aimed at offsetting the loss of the federal $7,500 EV tax credit and sustaining pressure on automakers to electrify their fleets.Stuck with Sacramento?For Detroit automakers, the calculus is complex. Federal relief has eased near-term compliance costs, but California remains the largest single automotive market in the country and a regulatory bellwether for more than a dozen other states. Ignoring Sacramento has never been a viable long-term strategy, regardless of which party controls Washington.CARB Chair Lauren Sanchez underscored that reality in a recent interview, saying the state is accelerating its zero-emission agenda while attempting to balance environmental goals with workforce stability and industry constraints. That balance is becoming harder to maintain as political and legal battles reshape the regulatory landscape.California’s influence dates back decades. Under the Clean Air Act of 1970, the state was granted unique authority to seek EPA waivers allowing it to impose stricter emissions standards than federal rules. Other states were permitted to adopt California’s standards, giving the state outsize influence over national vehicle design and production.War on waiversThat authority has now been curtailed. Using the Congressional Review Act, Congress rescinded California’s Advanced Clean Cars II waiver, which would have required a phaseout of new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035. Lawmakers also revoked waivers governing zero-emission heavy-duty trucks and stricter diesel emissions rules, while federal regulators halted penalties for automakers that miss tailpipe targets.The financial implications are significant. General Motors has said the rollback of federal emissions rules could save the company up to $750 million — relief that matters in an industry facing high interest rates, slowing EV demand, and rising production costs.California officials argue that short-term relief may come at a long-term cost. Weakening U.S. emissions and efficiency standards, they say, risks surrendering technological leadership to global competitors such as China, which has aggressively subsidized EV manufacturing and battery development.From the state’s perspective, the new $200 million incentive program is meant to bridge a growing gap. With federal tax credits gone, EVs remain more expensive than comparable gasoline vehicles for many consumers, and EV sales have slowed nationwide. State incentives are intended to prevent demand from stalling further while encouraging manufacturers to continue investing in electrification.Cooling demandAutomakers, however, are responding to a market that no longer aligns neatly with policy ambitions. Consumer interest in EVs has cooled, charging infrastructure remains uneven, and concerns about affordability, insurance costs, and resale values persist. In response, manufacturers are delaying some EV launches, scaling back production targets, and refocusing on hybrids and internal combustion vehicles that better match consumer demand.That disconnect has fueled tension between California leaders and the auto industry. Governor Gavin Newsom sharply criticized GM last year after the company supported federal efforts to roll back California’s authority. GM, while welcoming federal regulatory relief, emphasized California’s importance as a market and reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing dialogue with state regulators.The legal fight is far from over. California officials are preparing to challenge potential efforts to rescind the EPA’s “endangerment finding,” which underpins federal authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Repealing it would mark one of the most consequential shifts in environmental policy in decades and would almost certainly trigger prolonged court battles.At the same time, California has quietly pulled back some proposals. The state withdrew waiver requests that would have imposed strict locomotive emissions rules and accelerated diesel truck replacements, framing the move as a strategic effort to preserve flexibility while pursuing alternative regulatory and incentive-based approaches.RELATED: GM’s $7 billon loss exposes gap between EV optimism and market reality Bloomberg | Getty ImagesA familiar lessonFor automakers, the lesson is familiar. Regulatory swings are inevitable, but market access is permanent. California’s economy rivals that of entire nations, and its policies continue to influence vehicle standards well beyond its borders. Even without formal waiver authority, the state retains powerful tools through incentives, procurement policies, and partnerships.Detroit’s continued engagement reflects a recognition that today’s rollback may not be tomorrow’s reality. Political power shifts, court decisions evolve, and regulatory frameworks rarely stand still. Maintaining dialogue with California regulators is less about immediate concessions than long-term positioning in an industry with product cycles measured in decades.As federal and state governments continue to diverge, automakers are left to bridge the gap. This week’s meetings may not resolve that tension, but they underscore a growing reality: California is pressing ahead with an agenda that increasingly outpaces consumer demand, infrastructure readiness, and market economics.Incentives and mandates can shape product planning, but they cannot manufacture affordability or force trust. When policy consistently runs ahead of buyers, the result is not innovation — it is distortion. And the cost of that distortion is ultimately borne not by regulators, but by consumers.

by Blaze Media Feb 11, 2026

No 'right to hijack': Christian ousted from Trump faith panel over anti-Zionist remarks

The chair of President Donald Trump's Religious Liberty Commission announced on Wednesday that he has removed a Christian member from the group after she made anti-Zionist comments at a hearing earlier this week.During the commission's fifth hearing on Monday, Carrie Prejean Boller — a recent convert to Catholicism who was stripped of her Miss California USA Crown in 2009 after criticizing gay "marriage" — repeatedly asked whether anti-Zionism is necessarily anti-Semitic; stated that "Catholics don't embrace Zionism"; asked a panelist whether he would "condemn what Israel has done in Gaza"; and questioned whether the modern state of Israel is one and the same as the biblical Israel.'Represents no one but herself.'Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who chairs the commission, desperately attempted to manage flaring tempers on the stage, at one point recommending Boller have a coffee with one of her interlocutors.Following the hearing, one of the witnesses, Shabbos Kestenbaum, criticized Boller, expressing disappointment about her decision to "focus exclusively on Israel."After stating in reply that she would not resign or "be bullied" and then suggesting in a separate message that the hearing had systematically excluded "Jewish and Christian voices that dissent from Zionism," Boller leaned harder into her criticism of Zionism online, tweeting, for example, "I will never bend the knee to the state of Israel. Ever. I am more determined than ever to speak plainly about political Zionism and the lies we’ve been sold to justify endless war, dead children, and blank checks."While Boller made appeals in her messaging to the Catholic Church's teaching that the new Israel "is called the Church of Christ," she found critics among those Catholics she claimed to speak for, including Bill Donohue, president of the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights.Donohue noted that while "it is possible for someone to oppose Zionism yet not be anti-Semitic," those "who are activists for the anti-Zionist cause invariably harbor an animus against Jews."RELATED: Michael Knowles explains why he isn't a Christian Zionist Photographer: Callaghan O'Hare/Bloomberg via Getty ImagesDonohue stressed that Boller "does not run a Catholic organization, has no Catholic credentials as an author or instructor, and indeed represents no one but herself."Among the other outfits and organizations that condemned Boller was the Wall Street Journal, whose editorial board characterized her as a dingbat and suggested the purpose of her theatrics was to gain online followers.The National Review piled on, dubbing Boller "a lunatic antisemite."Among those who alternatively voiced support for Boller was the group Jews United Against Zionism and Candace Owens.On Wednesday morning, Patrick noted, "No member of the Commission has the right to hijack a hearing for their own personal and political agenda on any issue. This is clearly, without question, what happened Monday in our hearing on antisemitism in America.""I am grateful to President Trump for having the vision and boldness to create this Commission," continued Patrick. "Fighting for the Word of God and religious freedom is what this nation was founded upon. Leading this fight will be one of his greatest legacies."Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 11, 2026

Lone Republican Defies Trump, Votes to Tank SAVE Act

A lone Republican broke with President Donald Trump and his party Wednesday, nearly derailing GOP leadership’s push to advance the SAVE Act, a bill requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote in federal elections.The House narrowly approved a procedural rule in a 216-215 vote, clearing the way for debate and a final vote on the legislation. Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky was the only Republican to vote no. All Democrats opposed the rule.'A central issue for conservative voters.'The vote was not on the SAVE Act itself. In the House, lawmakers must first adopt a rule that sets the terms for debate, including how long members may speak and whether amendments are allowed, before a bill can receive final consideration. If the rule fails, the legislation cannot move forward.By approving the rule, the House advanced the SAVE Act to the floor despite Massie's vote.RELATED: 'This isn't a CIRCUS!' Bondi fends off attacks from Democrat lawmakers in combative hearing T.J. Kirkpatrick/Getty Images Republicans say the measure strengthens election integrity and addresses concerns about noncitizen voting, a central issue for conservative voters and aligned with Trump’s broader election security agenda.Conservative commentator Greg Price said that Massie was “the only Republican who voted against advancing the SAVE America Act to the House floor,” sharing a screenshot of the tally. Commenters accused Massie of undermining a key GOP priority.In response to online uproar, Massie stated that he intends to vote for the bill. "There’s a false rumor that I voted against the Save America Act today. I’ll vote for it when it comes to the floor. I voted against a 'rule' that allows it to get a vote, but the 'rule' also suspends house rules and allows spending bills to come to the floor with no 24hr notice!" he posted to X Wednesday afternoon.RELATED: Olympic ski jumpers may be injecting their penises with acid to jump farther Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call Inc. via Getty Images Massie has previously supported citizenship verification requirements. He has co-sponsored related legislation and criticized leadership for failing to attach SAVE-style provisions to must-pass spending bills. At the same time, he has objected to procedural maneuvers he considers symbolic or unlikely to become law without broader structural reforms.The SAVE Act now moves toward a final House vote. Its prospects in the Senate remain uncertain, particularly without changes to filibuster rules.Editor's note: This article was edited after publication to include Massie's statements about the rule vote, including that he intends to vote for the bill when it comes to the floor.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 11, 2026

Mexican cartel drones in El Paso to blame for airspace closure: War Department

The Federal Aviation Administration briefly shut down El Paso flights after Mexican cartel drones "breached" American airspace on Tuesday. The FAA lifted the flight restrictions Wednesday morning, less than 24 hours later, after initially establishing a 10-day closure due to "special security concerns." 'All flights will resume as normal.'An official from President Donald Trump's administration later clarified the security concern to Blaze News, noting the Department of War's involvement. "Mexican cartel drones breached U.S. airspace," the official told Blaze News. "The Department of War took action to disable the drones. The FAA and DOW have determined there is no threat to commercial travel."RELATED: 'Impossible to deal with': Pete Hegseth reveals the real culprit behind defense contractor delays Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images The FAA reiterated that flights have resumed as normal in a statement posted on X. "The temporary closure of airspace over El Paso has been lifted," the statement reads. "There is no threat to commercial aviation. All flights will resume as normal."RELATED: Exclusive: ICE busts pedophile, abuser, and fentanyl trafficker despite ongoing shutdown Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty ImagesLike Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 11, 2026

Florida home invader threatens homeowner with weapon, advances toward him, refuses to leave. But crook picks wrong victim.

A home invader in Tallahassee, Florida, picked the wrong victim late last week.The Leon County Sheriff’s Office said deputies responded to a report of shots fired in the 5400 block of Touraine Drive around 9:40 p.m. Friday and found a male suffering from a gunshot wound.'Completely justified! Homeowners have a right to defend their property, their lives, and their families.'Detectives determined the male entered a home uninvited and refused to leave after multiple requests from the homeowner, officials said.The suspect then threatened the homeowner with a weapon while advancing toward him, officials said.With that, the homeowner fired a single round from a semi-automatic handgun, striking the suspect, officials said.The suspect was taken to a hospital in critical condition, officials said, adding that no other individuals in the home were hurt.Officials said charges are pending in the ongoing investigation.RELATED: 'Anyone who breaks into someone's home should expect to get shot': Gun-toting Florida homeowner takes care of business Image source: Leon County (Fla.) Sheriff’s OfficeAs you might expect, commenters under the Facebook post about the shooting from sheriff's office were decidedly backing the homeowner's actions:"This the epitome of 'fawk around and find out,'" one commenter wrote. "I hope those 'pending [charges]' aren't against the homeowner.""Completely justified!" another user said. "Homeowners have a right to defend their property, their lives, and their families.""Good for the homeowner having a gun and defending himself!" another commenter declared. "This is one of the EXACT reasons we have the Second Amendment! Thank heavens!""Multiple requests to leave?" another user asked. "Um, you're lucky if you get ONE request to leave.""Shouldn't have to be transported to hospital," another commenter said, adding that it would "be much better if they transported the subject to morgue.""Ain't no intruder gonna survive to tell at my house," another user promised."I love a happy ending," another commenter said.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 11, 2026

Mamdani is outraged at Trump administration after Pride flag is quietly removed from Stonewall monument to gay riot

The Trump administration ordered the removal of a Pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument celebrating a riot by gay males against police in the '60s. The order said only U.S. flags and other authorized flags can be displayed at sites managed by the National Park Service.'New York is the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, and no act of erasure will ever change, or silence, that history.' New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani expressed his outrage against the order in a post on the X social media platform."I am outraged by the removal of the Rainbow Pride Flag from Stonewall National Monument," Mamdani wrote. "New York is the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, and no act of erasure will ever change, or silence, that history. Our city has a duty not just to honor this legacy, but to live up to it."Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal said he would re-raise the flag at the monument Tuesday, along with other New York City-area politicians.The national monument commemorates a riot against police by gay males in Greenwich Village. LGBTQ+ activists cite the rioting as a turning point in the gay rights movement. The monument was established under the administration of former President Barack Obama."I think it's important that we speak out and stand up for the community, frankly, just as our forebears, who exhibited much more courage back in 1969," Hoylman-Sigal said in an interview Tuesday. "This is not a moment for our community to stand by idly as attempts to undermine our history are put forward by Trump and the federal administration.""I will always fight for a New York City that invests in our LGBTQ+ community, defends their dignity, and protects every one of our neighbors — without exception," Mamdani continued in his X post.RELATED: Trans activists are outraged that Twitter has quietly removed restrictions on 'dead-naming' and misgendering people A similar outrage erupted from LGBTQ activists in February when the Trump administration stripped the "T" and the "Q" from LGBTQ at Stonewall. Protesters vandalized the sign at the monument to add the word "transgender."New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) denounced the Trump administration at the time."This is just cruel and petty," she responded. "Transgender people play a critical role in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights — and New York will never allow their contributions to be erased."Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 11, 2026

Epstein file dump exposes the ‘banality of evil’

While the previous Epstein file dumps have proven to offer little information for the general public to work with, the latest Epstein files release has revealed just how evil some of the most powerful people really are — and naturally, BlazeTV contributor William Wolfe from the Center for Baptist Leadership is among those incredibly disturbed. “What stood out to you the most about what is, you know, the most revealing Epstein file dump yet?” Deace asks Wolfe. “I would say two things. One is that the conspiracy theorists are proven right yet again,” Wolfe says. “There is this cabal of truly horrific, disgusting, pedophilic people running things in our country and globally. And, you know, Alex Jones just stays winning and vindicated on this overall theme of, the worst people you could ever imagine are in charge.” “The second thing that really stood out to me is just the total banality of evil. I mean, they’re just kind of dumb, evil, disgusting people. You know, they just happen to also have power. These are the same kind of evil people you could run into any day on the street. Yet somehow this cadre of individuals managed to take this evil to the highest levels of power and influence across our government,” he continues. “And so, I mean, really in some ways it’s not that surprising. But it’s shocking, it’s revealing, it’s disgusting. But this is just, like, what we’re up against. It is a fight of good versus evil from the top to the bottom, from your everyday life at your city council to the highest levels of government,” he adds. Wolfe believes that this is definitive proof that we’re in a “spiritual battle of good versus evil.” “I don’t know how you look at these files and come away from that with any other conclusion,” he says. Want more from Steve Deace? To enjoy more of Steve's take on national politics, Christian worldview, and principled conservatism with a snarky twist, subscribe to BlazeTV — the largest multi-platform network of voices who love America, defend the Constitution, and live the American dream.

by Blaze Media Feb 10, 2026

Baltimore nonprofit that was run by mayor's wife shut down after getting $100K of taxpayer cash — and Soros is involved

A nonprofit organization linked to the wife of the mayor of Baltimore is facing intense scrutiny after it ended operations despite taking in hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to WBFF-TV.The mission of the Bmore Empowered nonprofit was to encourage black women and girls to excel in entrepreneurship and "holistic wellness," according to its website. It was first founded in 2017 and came to be led by Hana Scott in Sept. 2021 until Sept. 2025.'This is not a pause. It is the end of a beautiful chapter.'Her tenure as director of operations ended the same day that Bmore Empowered announced an "organizational pause."The organization is reportedly behind on tax filings, has been sued for unpaid rent, and is listed as "delinquent" on the state's charity database.In July 2022, Hana Scott went public about her relationship with Baltimore's mayor, and Bmore Empowered got a surge of new funding.The taxpayer-funded Downtown Partnership of Baltimore granted the group $80,000 at an event attended by the Scotts. The Baltimore City government gave the group taxpayer-funded payments that added up to $34,950 by 2024. And the Baltimore Children and Youth Fund, also paid for by taxpayer money, sent the organization $62,500.Despite this, Bmore Empowered failed to report a tax form for the 2024 fiscal year, which was due to the IRS in May 2025.WBFF reported that the organization did not respond to questions about how it intends to spend the taxpayer money. Hana Scott did not respond to the outlet's request for comment, and the mayor's office did not respond to questions about a possible conflict of interest, among others.The report said that Bmore Empowered paused operations in September, but a post on its Facebook page Monday said the organization was coming to a close, adding, "This is not a pause. It is the end of a beautiful chapter."In addition to all of the taxpayer funds that Bmore Empowered received, the group obtained $175,000 from Open Society in 2022, which is funded by left-wing billionaire George Soros. The donation was part of a campaign by the Alliance for Open Society International to provide millions in funding for organizations in the Baltimore area.RELATED: Nonprofit claimed to provide daily brown-bag meals to thousands of students — schools say they got nothing WBFF also documented how Bmore Empowered received tens of thousands of dollars from the BOOST program of the Downtown Partnership to open a storefront and failed to do so. Instead, it opened offices at a separate location and then was sued for not paying rent at that location. The landlord won a financial judgment against the group when no one showed in court.A Blaze News request for comment from the Bmore Empowered organization was not answered.Despite pausing operations, Bmore Empowered continues to sell T-shirts on its website.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 10, 2026

Whites not included? Texas Democrat urged certain racial groups to unite against 'same oppressor'

A video of Democratic Texas state Rep. Gene Wu has resurfaced on the internet this week in what one large social media account called a "mask off" moment for the lawmaker.In a December 31, 2024, episode of "Define American with Jose Antonio Vargas," Wu, an immigrant who was born in China, openly urged minority racial groups to unite against their "same oppressor." 'Because we are the majority in this country now.'In the video, entitled "In This Texas District, 1/3 of Residents Are Undocumented," Wu was asked about different racial groups' relationship to each other and particularly the relationship between Asians and Latinos. "It's not just Latinos. It's not just Asians. It's not just African-Americans. It's everybody. Right? We, our country and the forces that be, the powers that be, have spent tremendous time, effort, and money to make sure that those groups are never united, that they always see each other as enemies, as competitors, without ever realizing that they share one thing in common: that their oppressors all are the same," Wu responded. "The oppression comes from one place," he quickly added.RELATED: Exclusive: GOP lawmaker wants Congress to take — and pass — a basic civics exam Without explicitly saying who these "oppressors" are, Wu made it easy to read between the lines: "I always tell people the day the Latino, African-American, Asian, and other communities realize that they share the same oppressor is the day we start winning. Because we are the majority in this country now. We have the ability to take over this country and to do what is needed for everyone and to make things fair." "Shame on him," Elon Musk said in response to the clip of Wu, who was first elected to Texas House District 137 near Houston in 2012.The Daily Wire's Matt Walsh pointed out the rhetorical double standard between Republicans and Democrats, referencing a more recent controversy in which President Trump shared a meme some decried as racist: "So I’m supposed to be outrage[d] about an Obama monkey meme while Democrat elected officials are labeling the entire white race 'oppressors' and openly plotting to conquer and subjugate us? Trump can post all the memes he wants. I really don’t care at all."The resurfaced video has since garnered nearly 14 million views on X.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 10, 2026

Mom with child in tow accused of shooting toward sushi server. What allegedly triggered her is far from your average motive.

A St. Louis mother is facing multiple felony charges after police say she fired a gun inside a Kirkwood, Missouri, sushi restaurant amid an argument with staff last week, KTVI-TV reported.Kirkwood police told the station the shooting took place just before 8:30 p.m. Wednesday.'You're going to get it.'Police said Aaliyah N. Moorehead, 31, told officers she believed restaurant staff were rude to her and her family when they arrived, KTVI reported, adding that Moorehead was with her 9-year-old child.Moorehead also said she used a translation feature on her AirPods to determine that the cooks made racial and derogatory comments in Spanish about her and her family, the station said.Police said Moorehead also got upset over what she described as an issue with her order, KTVI said. A server offered to correct the order, but Moorehead began swearing at the server and was asked to leave, the station noted.Moorehead then threw a bowl of soup at the server, hitting him and others nearby, authorities told KTVI.The server moved a chair between himself and Moorehead, the station said, adding that she grabbed the chair and threw it.Moorehead then took out a 9mm Glock handgun, threatened the server, and fired a shot in his direction, police told KTVI, adding that Moorehead's 9-year-old was walking between Moorehead and the server at the time.Police told KMOV-TV that Moorehead said, “You’re going to get it,” before firing the shot.The bullet missed the server, went through a refrigerator, and struck a wall, KTVI said, adding that no one was injured. RELATED: Unruly restaurant patron takes Taser from off-duty cop working security — and shoots cop with it. But troublemaker runs out of luck when officer pulls his gun. Police said the restaurant manager told officers the suspect drove away in a white SUV, and officers located the vehicle soon after and detained those in the car, KTVI said.After reviewing the restaurant’s security video, police identified the SUV's occupants as Moorehead, her 9-year-old child, and another adult woman, KTVI said.Police told KMOV the entire incident was captured on surveillance video and that Moorehead admitted to firing the gun.The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office charged Moorehead with first-degree assault, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, endangering the welfare of a child, and first-degree property damage, KTVI said.Moorehead was still behind bars Tuesday morning at the St. Louis County Justice Center; jail records do not show a court date.KTVI said Moorehead is being held on a $150,000 cash-only bond.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors, sign up for our newsletters, and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

by Blaze Media Feb 9, 2026

'Who would have thought?': Mamdani sides with knife-wielding suspect, not cops

When 22-year-old Jabez Chakraborty was shot by NYPD officers in Queens for allegedly charging them with a large kitchen knife, the newly elected mayor, Zohran Mamdani, claimed that the suspect needs mental health treatment instead of criminal prosecution.“I spoke with the Chakraborty family, and I visited Jabez in the hospital, and no family should have to endure this kind of pain. Jabez has lived with schizophrenia for many years, and this situation underscores just how urgently we need a different and more effective mental health response system that will be safer for New Yorkers who struggle with mental health concerns, for their families, and for police officers,” Mamdani said following the incident.“Jabez needs mental health treatment, not criminal prosecution by a district attorney,” he added.“Who would have thought that coming in and bringing a Muslim commie as your mayor in New York City would have its flaws?” BlazeTV host Sara Gonzales jokes, before playing the bodycam footage from the incident.In the footage, Chakraborty continues charging police officers with the knife after being asked several times to put the knife down. As he gets closer, an officer fires his weapon.“I would say they gave him quite a bit of warning to put the shiny, very sharp object in his hands down while they were holding a firearm at him. I would say they gave him way more chances than I would have. They retreated. He continued engaging and moving forward,” Gonzales comments.“Clear-cut case of attempted murder, which prosecutors are looking at potentially charging him with. I don’t know why potentially. It’s right there on camera,” she continues.“They did everything right, and still, instead of Mamdani congratulating the NYPD, instead of using this as a moment where he’s like, ‘Our officers are very brave, and they are under attack right now; these guys were almost stabbed in the line of duty,’ this is how your new Muslim communist mayor of New York City reacts,” she adds.Want more from Sara Gonzales?To enjoy more of Sara's no-holds-barred takes on news and culture, subscribe to BlazeTV — the largest multi-platform network of voices who love America, defend the Constitution, and live the American dream.