The Washington Post News & Breaking Stories

Simone Biles dominates gymnastics meet with an all-around score of 59.500, solidifying her champion status once again.

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards praises Nikola Jokic after Game 5 loss to Denver Nuggets, viral quote circulates online.

New Biden polls, Putin's defense minister, infrastructure week, RFK Jr.'s brain, Sean Hannity's house, and more in this viral news summary.

Former Trump adviser Hope Hicks testified in hush money trial about infamous "Access Hollywood" tape and scheme to silence women.

Anti-Israel heckler targets Rep. Byron Donalds at George Washington University protest, hurling racially charged attacks in viral video.

Brady United President Kris Brown spreads false information about gun owners, while the firearm industry promotes safety and responsible gun ownership.

Trillions of cicadas emerge after 13 or 17 years underground, creating a deafening chorus in a rare synchronized event.

Former Washington Nationals ace Stephen Strasburg officially retires from MLB after injuries cut his career short. World Series MVP in 2019.

North Carolina law causes delays in election results, sparking conspiracy theories among conservative voters about potential election rigging.

Virtual candidate Palmer wins American Samoa Democratic caucus, beating Biden. Young entrepreneur emphasizes issues important to youth. Viral win surprises.

California's Senate race heats up as Democrats battle for top two spots, with late surge from Republican Steve Garvey shaking things up.

John is the frontrunner to replace Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Republican senators are considering successors for the position.

Comedian Richard Lewis, known for neurotic monologues, dies at 76. His iconic comedy style and influence on the industry remembered.

Dating app market growth is slowing, with Match Group reporting a decline in paying customers. AI may be the future.

The best and worst commercials that aired in the 2024 Super Bowl, according to experts, and the impact on brands.

RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel may step down after South Carolina primary, with Trump allies pressuring her removal. Trump considers Michael Whatley as successor.

Actor Sam Waterston is leaving Law & Order after 30 years. His final episode will air on February 22. Tony Goldwyn will replace him.

OpenAI bans developer of bot imitating Democratic presidential candidate. Company's first known restriction on using its AI tools by a political campaign.

"Trump's disruptive behavior in defamation trial earns him two warnings," says judge. "He lied and shattered my reputation," E. Jean Carroll testified.

New FAFSA form is finally here, making it easier to qualify for financial aid and scholarships. The changes are significant.

Trump is eligible to appear on 2024 primary ballots. States are divided on his eligibility to run for office.

"Spotify Wrapped confirms you're the star of your internet." Year-end roundups provide a burst of accomplishment and personal reflection.

Liz Cheney, a former Republican Representative, is considering a third-party run for president in 2024, citing Trump as a threat to democracy.

Jared Kushner reveals Chuck Schumer's upsetting remarks about Russia ties, defends innocence, and discusses challenges faced during investigations in podcast interview.

Former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger dies at 100. He shaped global politics, won Nobel Peace Prize, and visited China at 100.

OpenAI reinstates Sam Altman as CEO and adds Larry Summers to the board after firing him, in a surprising move.

Joe Biden, oldest US president, faces challenges with age, poll numbers, and support among younger voters due to Israel policy.

Speaker Mike Johnson has been associated with right-wing activists with a history of overlooking sexual abuse of minors.

Louisiana House Speaker Mike Johnson campaigned with Josh Duggar, now in prison for child pornography, and has close ties to sexual abusers.

New House Speaker Mike Johnson's "first big clash" with lawmakers over "unconventional" two-step bill could lead to government shutdown.

Brooklyn Mayor Eric Adams is cooperating with the FBI after his fundraiser's home was searched, and says he has nothing to hide.

Tim Scott confirmed his relationship with Mindy Noce, a Charleston interior designer, by bringing her on stage at a debate.

'Schitt's Creek' star Emily Hampshire apologizes for dressing up as Johnny Depp and Amber Heard for Halloween, calling it "thoughtless and insensitive."

Basketball coach Bobby Knight dies at 83, leaving behind a legacy of championships and a notorious temper.

Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh speaks about the NCAA investigation into alleged sign-stealing by the Wolverines, saying he will let the investigation take its course.

LeBron James defends teammate Anthony Davis against critics after the Lakers' victory over the Suns, saying they don't care about the criticism.

Over 260 bodies recovered from Tribe Of Nova festival after surprise attack by Palestinian militants. Death toll expected to rise.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise could be in line for the top job in Congress's lower chamber after Speaker Kevin McCarthy was ousted.

Former White House Chief of Staff John Kelly confirms reports that Donald Trump denigrated military members, veterans, and their families.

Democratic megadonor Sam Bankman-Fried considered paying former President Donald Trump not to run for reelection in 2020, according to a new book. Bankman-Fried's associates reportedly established a covert communication line with Trump's camp and found he could potentially be swayed for $5 billion. Bankman-Fried also planned to contribute millions to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to defeat "Trumpier" candidates. Bankman-Fried is currently facing charges of fraud and embezzlement.

Haley Van Voorhis became the first woman to play in an NCAA college football game at a position other than kicker or punter.

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy calls out a Washington Post reporter for handling an upcoming "hit piece" against him.

The possibility of a government shutdown is looming large, after Republican leadership scrapped a procedural vote on a stopgap funding bill to keep the government running through October. Intraparty feuding between moderates and the hard-right lies at the heart of the GOP's inability to reach a compromise and highlights the challenge before House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.).

The pilot of a $100 million stealth fighter jet parachuted safely into the backyard of a home in South Carolina after a malfunction forced him to eject from the aircraft, causing the plane to crash into a wooded area about 60 miles away.

Congresswoman Boebert apologizes for vaping incident at a musical in Denver, admitting she fell short of her values.

BREAKING: Mitt Romney has announced he will not seek reelection in 2024, but there is no resignation.

General Motors (GM) has increased its contract offer to a 20% wage hike for US autoworkers in a bid to avoid a strike. Ford Motor has also confirmed it offered a 20% hike and other benefits. The United Auto Workers (UAW) is demanding 40% raises and major improvements in benefits. The UAW has outlined plans for a series of strikes targeting individual auto plants if agreements are not reached. The UAW is asking for 40% raises and major improvements in benefits. A full strike would hit earnings at each affected automaker by about $400 million to $500 million per week.

A Virginia Democratic candidate who recorded sex acts with her husband for money on a livestreaming website has received endorsements from liberal politicians and advocacy groups.

Reigning Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams may consider returning to USC for another year instead of entering the NFL draft.

Tommy Tuberville, an Alabama Republican senator, has blocked over 300 military promotions due to his opposition to the Pentagon's abortion policies and what he perceives as "woke" sentiment among officers. If the block continues, it could affect up to 650 promotions by the end of the year, potentially damaging national security. Tuberville's actions have drawn criticism from civilian military leaders, who argue that the hold is unfair to the officers and their families and is putting military readiness at risk.