State in the Southeastern U.S.; landlocked, diverse economy
Major US broadcast networks have halted pooled TV coverage after the White House barred CNN, MS NOW and Politico from access. The three outlets have sued, and a federal judge has temporarily ordered restoration of their press credentials. Networks are refusing to replace CNN for rotating pool duties, disrupting independent live footage of presidential events.
Tributes have poured in following Dolly Parton’s death at 80, with fans and peers sharing memories and AI-generated tributes raising ethical questions. Parton’s family highlights the need for compassion and respect amid a flood of content, while friends and industry figures reflect on her business legacy and philanthropy.
A roundup of recent profiles and studies shows couples using AI-augmented apps and digital platforms to reconnect, with narratives ranging from AI-curated scenes for intimacy to slower, more patient dating in search of lasting connection.
A wave of robotics and AI upgrades is reshaping manufacturing. Startups like Vsim and Maven are pushing faster simulations and end-to-end automation, while established players such as Agility, Nissan and Caterpillar detail how humanoids and AMRs are being deployed to lift heavy loads, optimize flows and reduce human labor in factories.
The midterm contests are intensifying as key Senate races move toward toss-ups amid headwinds from Trump-era unpopularity and internal party divisions. Republicans hold a fragile Senate edge while Democrats seek gains in Michigan, Maine, Texas, Iowa, Alaska and Ohio; fundraising and redistricting battles shape outcomes.
Multiple US states are pausing or regulating Flock Safety’s ALPR network amid privacy concerns, with ongoing debates on data use and accountability for law enforcement.
Trump has pledged a $5,000 dividend for every American if Republicans retain control of Congress; the plan faces legal, fiscal and political hurdles and is criticized by experts and opponents as economically risky.
The Boring Company has raised $3 billion in a funding round led by the United Arab Emirates, valuing the company at $23 billion. The round boosts plans to dig more than 150 kilometers of tunnels in the UAE, with other investors including Andreessen Horowitz, Sequoia, and Baron Capital. The funding follows recent activity in Las Vegas and Nashville as the company pushes to turn Musk’s tunneling vision into a global transit network.
The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority has voted to begin renaming Nashville International Airport in Dolly Parton’s honor. The decision follows Parton’s death and a widespread push from fans and officials. A final name will be determined, with work on signage, merchandise, and contracts expected to take time.
Trump has announced the removal of a 10% tariff on Irish whiskey following requests from Shane Lowry, Ireland’s prime minister, and other Irish officials. The move comes as part of a broader revision of tariffs on European spirits. Details on timing are still being clarified.
A guide to lesser-known fall landscapes across the United States, highlighting offbeat spots from the Midwest to New England and beyond, with practical tips on crowds, reservations, and hidden gems.
Paramount Skydance has reached a settlement with California and other state attorneys general and the Writers Guild to clear the path for its Warner Bros. Discovery merger. The agreement pledges 30 films per year and domestic production investment while preserving protections for workers and editorial independence for certain channels. The deal is framed as consumer- and worker-protective, but analysts warn it could reduce competition and raise prices.
Two years after record floods swept through Washington County, Nancy Tucker has been identified. Her body was recovered after a long, difficult search that faced federal debris-removal hurdles. First responders kept up the hunt to recover missing residents, reaffirming commitment to families.
Grand Teton National Park staff have euthanized a bear after a pattern of food-conditioned behavior escalated, posing an unacceptable safety risk to visitors. Park officials say the decision followed darting the animal and transporting it from backcountry Delta Lake. Visitors are urged to secure food and belongings to prevent future incidents.
Voters show broad support for reforms to shore up Social Security as fund depletion looms in 2032; surveys indicate rising awareness and willingness to accept tax hikes or benefit adjustments, with Republican and Democratic voters largely aligned.
McDonald’s has unveiled a $8.5 billion, 10-year plan to upgrade stores with more technology, AI-driven operations, new training, and a greater focus on chicken and beverages. Executives say the program will strengthen restaurant economics and improve the customer experience, while managing franchisee costs.
Tennessee Titans and Philadelphia Eagles players faced extreme heat at Nissan Stadium, with turf readings around 157F (69C). Players cooled cleats with water; several instances of cleat melting were reported. Teams adjusted travel plans and equipment as heat drove on-field tactics and debate over grass vs. turf.
Hyundai, Genesis and Kia are estimated to have outsized gains in U.S. auto sales this quarter, with Hyundai likely surpassing Ford to become the third-largest seller behind GM and Toyota. The group’s deliveries are up about 4.4% to roughly 511,000 units, helping offset Ford’s production woes and highlighting a resilient market.
Dolly Parton Day is being celebrated worldwide. Proclamations highlight Parton’s literacy advocacy, with events from Nashville to Manhattan, and charitable book donations through the Imagination Library continuing to broaden access to children’s reading.
The 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that Ohio and Tennessee can regulate sports-related event contracts. States’ gambling laws apply, undermining the argument for federal exclusivity over prediction markets. The decision follows earlier rulings in the 9th and 3rd Circuits and comes as the Supreme Court may weigh in. New York has sued Polymarket over unlicensed gambling.
Presidential attention during a high-stakes Texas-Tennessee game has prompted teams to plan for potential headset disruptions as officials note security movements can interrupt on-field communication. The Texas quarterback Arch Manning is set to play in Neyland Stadium, with Trump’s attendance adding a unique layer to the SEC showdown.