President Donald Trump is preparing to announce new secondary tariffs Friday on nations who conduct trade with Russia amid its deadly war in Ukraine.The White House has remained tight-lipped on what those tariffs will look like after the president first said in July they would amount to "100%" tariffs before causing confusion earlier this week when he told reporters he "never said a percentage."While the specifics of what tax rates nations that trade with Russia could face remain unclear, Trumps change in posture toward Russian President Vladimir Putin has become increasingly evident.FROM TALK TO TACTICS: TRUMP PIVOTS ON RUSSIA STRATEGY TO END WAR"Trump's frustrated that the Russians have not taken advantage of his patience and generous offers, but it's very interesting that even after Trump announced he was moving submarines, and even after he announced the tough tariffs, the Russians still want to talk to him," Fred Fleitz, who served as a deputy assistant to Trump and chief of staff of the National Security Council during the presidents first term, told Fox News Digital."Putin does not want to anger Trump," he added. "Putin never worried about angering Biden, and I think that this shows a degree of respect."It shows what Trump has achieved by exercising leadership on the global stage. And we'll see what happens," Fleitz said, adding he hoped it was not merely a stalling tactic by Putin.Trumps return to the White House brought with it a sense of shock as he appeared to distance Washington from its top allies in Europe in favor of attempting to improve diplomatic relations with Putin, culminating in the infamous Oval Office showdown with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in February.While the tussle brought renewed support from his top MAGA base, who favor ending U.S. involvement in foreign wars, it prompted concern among security experts. Ultimately, Trumps patience with Putin began to shift, with the president consistently expressing his frustration at the Kremlin chiefs continued brutal attacks in Ukraine.In mid-July, while sitting next to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump announced Putin had 50 days to enter into a ceasefire or face "very severe" tariffs that would affect Moscow's top commodity, oil.ZELENSKYY TELLS PUTIN TO 'BE BRAVE' AND FINALLY AGREE TO TRILATERAL MEETING WITH TRUMP"Tariffs at about 100%, you'd call them secondary tariffs," he had said, indicating that nations that trade with Russia will see 100% tariffs slapped on them when trading with the U.S.This would most greatly affect China and India, according to data released by the U.S. government Thursday, which showed both nations account for 46% of all Russian oil purchases in 2025.But the U.S. is also the No. 1 export market for both China and India, which means higher price tags at the checkout line on their products will make Americans think twice before completing those purchases.After ongoing trade negotiations with both nations and Putins continued war effort in Ukraine, Trump last week pushed up his deadline to within 10 daysof July 29, forcing a new deadline of Friday.But while his promised tariffs were met with applause by some in the GOP, including Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. he, along with Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-N.Y., is pushing the charge for 500% sanctions on Russia other Republican members have not backed the move.Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., has been outspoken against not only Trumps tariffs but the bipartisan sanction push and argued to Fox Business Larry Kudlow this week that Trumps tariffs on allies and foes alike will amount to $2 trillion in taxes for the American consumer.But Fleitz pushed back on this argument and said he is not convinced that the tariffs will hurt the U.S. or Chinese economy, though Russia and India are likely to feel the pain."I think they're going to hurt the Russian and Indian economies," he said, noting that India could recover by buying oil elsewhere. Though some reporting has suggested that India may have saved over $30 billion by increasingly turning to Russian oil during 2022-2024 due to Moscows price cuts.TRUMP OPEN TO MEET PUTIN FACE-TO-FACE NEXT WEEK FOLLOWED BY THREE-WAY TALKS WITH UKRAINE'S ZELENSKYY"It is going to be another factor that's going to pressure Putin to agree to a ceasefire. I don't know if that's going to happen immediately or in a few months, but I think it is going to put real pressure, inflict real pain on Russia," Fleitz said.Once a staunch Trump ally, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R- Ga., took to X this week in response to a post by Trump that he would be enforcing tariffs on India for purchasing Russian oil and said, "End Indian H1-B visas replacing American jobs instead and stop funding and sending weapons to the Obama/Biden/Neocon Ukraine Russia war."Trumps favorable transition toward Ukraine and European allies has also ruffled some MAGA feathers, though security experts have argued it has given the president better leverage to take on major adversaries like Putin, and by extension, China."Diplomacy and negotiations are a good thing," said Fleitz, who serves as vice chair of the America First Policy Institute's Center for American Security. "Peacemaking takes time, and the U.S.-Russia relationship was in a very bad situation when Trump came to office."I think these sanctions will hurt Russia very badly," Fleitz continued. "The fact that Trump knows that secondary sanctions on India has, at least temporarily, hurt our relationship is really a remarkable sign of how committed Trump is to these sanctions."There's not going to be exceptions. It's not going to be some type of soft strategy with all kinds of loopholes," he added. "I think it shows to Putin how serious Trump is, and it gives Trump leverage to negotiate with Putin."

Updated cancer screening guidance has reportedly caused a spike in diagnoses among younger Americans.According to two studies by the American Cancer Society (ACS), theres been a recent surge in colorectal cancer in people aged 45 to 49.ACS scientists found that after 15 years of stable colorectal cancer (CRC) trends, U.S. diagnoses of local-stage disease skyrocketed in this age group from 2019 to 2022 including a 50% relative increase from 2021 to 2022.PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING AFTER 70: EXPERTS QUESTION GUIDANCE AFTER BIDEN'S DIAGNOSIS"It is promising news, because the uptick in cases is likely due to first-time screening in the wake of new recommendations for younger, average-risk adults to begin testing for colorectal cancer earlier," lead author Elizabeth Schafer, an associate scientist and cancer researcher at ACS, commented in a press release.In 2018, ACS lowered the recommended age for CRC screenings from 50 to 45. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) enforced the same guidance in 2021.In the first study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), the researchers analyzed CRC diagnoses from 2004 to 2022 among adults aged 20 to 54, sorted by age, location and stage at diagnosis.'WESTERN DIET' BLAMED FOR GROWING RISK OF GI CANCERS AMONG YOUNG ADULTSDiagnoses have increased by 1.6% each year since 2004 in the 20 to 39 age group, and by more than 2% annually since 2012 in those aged 40 to 44 and 50 to 54.A 1.1% annual increase in people 45 to 49 years old accelerated to 12% per year from 2019 to 2022.The ACS confirmed the increase was driven by the detection of local-stage tumors, which increased by nearly 19% each year for colon cancer and more than 25% for rectal cancer in that timeframe.Before this period, colon cancer detection rates had been stable, and rectal cancer detection rates had been declining.RARE CANCER DIAGNOSES SURGE DRAMATICALLY AMONG MILLENNIALS AND GEN XAdvanced-stage disease also continues to steeply increase, ACS reported, rising from 1.7% to 2.9% annually since 2004 among adults under 45 and "even more rapidly" in the past 10 years in those aged 45 to 54.These findings led to another ACS study, also published in JAMA, which found that CRC screening among U.S. adults between 45 and 49 increased by 62% from 2019 to 2023.The scientists analyzed the data of more than 50,000 individuals to compare changes in screening. They found that CRC screening, which was at 20% in 2021, jumped to 37% in 2023.Among 45- to 49-year-olds, colonoscopy screening increased by 43%, and stool-based testing increased more than five times from 2019 to 2023.Lead author Jessica Star, associate scientist at ACS in Atlanta, considers it "thrilling" to see this increase in screening among younger individuals, as it's likely linked to earlier-stage diagnoses."However, we still have a long way to go," she said in the release. "Screening for colorectal cancer in ages 45 to 49 remains suboptimal, and has not increased equitably by both educational attainment and insurance status."PaulE. Oberstein, M.D., medical oncologist and assistant director of the Pancreatic Cancer Center at NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center, said the increase in screening is "successful in detecting more cancers at an early stage where the chance of cure is very high."CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER"This ultimately should mean that fewer people are diagnosed later in life and fewer people have advanced colon cancer," Oberstein, who was not involved in the study, told Fox News Digital."This study reinforces the need to focus research on understanding the causes of colon cancer increases and possible steps to reduce these cases."The rate of colon cancer in those under 45 remains "substantially lower," he noted, "so it is not clear yet if universal screening at a younger age is beneficial."Some specific patients who are younger than 45 may benefit from earlier screening, however, such as those with a family history or personal risk factors, the oncologist added.EXERCISE PROGRAM REDUCES COMMON CANCER RECURRENCE AND BOOSTS SURVIVALAs colon cancer continues to increase in younger individuals, Oberstein recommends contacting a doctor if any concerning symptoms are noticed.Dr. Craig Eagle, chief medical officer of Guardant Health in California, added that early detection is "crucial," noting that the five-year survival rate for CRC is over 90% when the disease is caught in early stages.For more Health articles, visitwww.foxnews.com/health"[This] plummets to 13% in late stages when symptoms usually appear," Eagle, who also was not involved in the research, told Fox News Digital."The rise in diagnoses for those in their 40s is an alarming reminder that screening must be easier and more accessible to reach the 50 million Americans who remain unscreened."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Fox News Bill Hemmer that Israel vows to take full control of a particular area, and a clothing company ran an ad featuring blonde bombshell Sydney Sweeney.Test your news knowledge with this week's Fox News Digital News Quiz.Looking for more of a challenge?A viral attack in Cincinnati left people demanding answers in last week's News Quiz.Test yourself on boardwalk beginnings and meteoric magic in this week's American Culture Quiz.If you're looking to play even more, you can find all of our quizzes by clicking here.Check back next week for the latest News Quiz from Fox News Digital. Thanks for playing!

After the viral beatdown in downtown Cincinnati that captured the nations attention, a candidate for Cincinnati mayor is pointing to relaxed bail policies and mismanagement of police funding as the primary cause of chaos wreaking havoc on citizens.In a news conference days after the assault, Mayor Aftab Pureval denounced the attack while vowing to find the assailants and hold them accountable."This was an awful incident, and our law enforcement has been working quickly and effectively to bring all responsible to justice," Pureval said. "Let me be clear, there is no place for violent crime in Cincinnati, whether it's a fight or gun violence. We will pursue those responsible, and we will hold them accountable no matter who they are."CINCINNATI BRAWL TIMELINE: BRUTAL ASSAULT SPIRALS INTO NATIONAL FIRESTORMAuthorities spent days searching for the six suspects charged in the assaault, and the final arrest was made over one week after the video went viral.Patrick Rosemond, 38, Jermaine Matthews, 39, Montianez Merriweather, 34, DeKyra Vernon, 24, Dominique Kittle, 37, and Aisha Devaughn, 25, face various charges for their alleged roles in the attack that left six people injured.Pureval has since come under fire for his handling of public safety within the city, with only 11 officers stationed in the downtown area on the night of the attack.CINCINNATI RESIDENTS ON EDGE AFTER VIRAL BEATDOWN SPARKS CRIME CONCERNS: 'WHAT'S GONNA HAPPEN NEXT?'Republican mayoral candidate Cory Bowman points to what he believes is widespread mismanagement within the city serving as the root cause of the unsafe conditions."There are things from City Hall that are showing that the police are not supported the way they need to," Bowman, Vice President JD Vances half-brother, told Fox News Digital. "They are unable to do their jobs because they've been told time and time again that they have to use restraint in certain things instead of enforcing the law. They're told to dial back, and then what happens is that we have prosecutors and judges that have a catch-and-release system."Standing on a street corner in the citys Over-the-Rhine (OTR) district, which had already seen two deadly shootings this week, Bowman blamed the citys relaxed policies for violent offenders bailing out of jail.CINCINNATI MAYOR MISSING DURING VIRAL ASSAULT CRISIS AS GOP SENATOR SLAMS ABSENCE, SETS DEADLINE FOR ACTION"So many officers have come to me, and they've said they don't even see a point in making arrests because the criminals are just going to be back on the streets the very next day," Bowman said. "We have to put pressure on all the judges and prosecutors, and we have to be able to let the officers know, Do your job, see your training and do your job properly, and you're going to have all of City Hall to back you up in that circumstance."Bowman looked to the recent viral brawl that captured the countrys attention, pointing out that one of the alleged assailants, Jermaine Matthews, was free after posting bail."It's one thing to see crime," Bowman told Fox News Digital. "It's another to see crimes that are noticeably preventable by locking up criminals and giving them the charges and the sentences that they deserve."DEMOCRATIC POLICIES PAVED WAY FOR CINCINNATI BRAWL, SAY OHIO REPUBLICANS: 'FEAR AND CHAOS'According tocitywide data, crime in Cincinnati is on par with last years numbers and is down by roughly 200 reported offenses since August 2023. To date, the city has approximately 15,000 reported offenses with instances spiking over the summer months.Bowman asserts Pureval is not doing enough to support the community and members of law enforcement when it comes to protection and safety, citing the police departments lateral hiring process taking months to beef up authorities presence on the streets."We have to get all the help that we can get," Bowman said. "Whether it be from the state or federal [level], we have to be able to accept all the help that we can get to be able to take care of crime that's happening in our downtown area."CINCINNATI MAYORAL CANDIDATE, VP VANCE'S HALF-BROTHER, SLAMS CITY LEADERSHIP AFTER BRUTAL BEATDOWN"So, 64% of the city's budget goes toward public safety. But what we have to understand is that there are initiatives and programs that are dividing the city from the police department when it comes to where those funds should be going."He pointed to numerous community involvement initiatives he believes are draining funding from the police department and putting public safety on the line."There are all these initiatives that have been stacked on top of each other for years that are draining the funds out of our city budget," Bowman said. "All those resources need to go back into the police department. We need to have higher amounts of patrols. We need to have a higher recruiting class. And we need to be able to have a strong stance against what's going on."The mayors office did not respond to Fox News Digitals multiple requests for comment.

Artificial intelligence is no longer just a tool for homework or simple tasks. Today, many teens use AI-powered companions for emotional support, advice and even simulated relationships. These apps simulate conversation in ways that feel deeply personal and, for some teens, deeply real.Recent survey data shows that nearly three-quarters of teens aged 13 to 17 have tried a digital companion at least once, and more than half continue to use them regularly. About one in eight say they use these tools daily, often to talk about personal challenges, vent feelings or practice social interaction.Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, youll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join myCYBERGUY.COM/NEWSLETTERWOULD YOU DATE YOUR PET? 1 IN 3 SAY YES TO AI VERSIONTeens are drawn to these platforms for several reasons. They are always available, they listen without judgment and they never push back. Because of this, many teens who feel lonely or anxious find them easier to talk to than real people.WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?One-third of teens say they have chosen to speak with AI instead of a real person during a serious moment. Of those teens, 31% report finding those conversations equally or more satisfying than talking with a peer. While most teens still spend more time with real-life friends, a small but growing number prefer the control and predictability of digital interaction.As the use of AI companions grows, so do concerns from researchers and child development experts. Many of these platforms marketed to teens have weak age verification, no effective content moderation and limited tools for identifying signs of crisis.GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HEREInvestigations have found instances of inappropriate content, sexualized role play and harmful advice being delivered to young users. In some cases, AI companions have failed to flag signs of mental health struggles or issues that could worsen emotional distress.Experts warn that this reliance on agreeable, overly affirming digital companions may hinder emotional growth. Teens may miss the opportunity to build real-life empathy, navigate disagreements or learn the give-and-take of human connection.The influence of digital relationships is extending beyond casual conversation. In one industry study, over 80% of Gen Z respondents said they would consider marrying AI in the future. Many also believe these tools are capable of forming deep emotional bonds, beyond just light or casual interactions.These shifts are raising new questions about how teens define relationships and what they expect from others. If AI friends become a primary model for connection, some worry it could reshape how young people approach trust, intimacy and emotional resilience.If you're a parent, teacher or mentor, it's important to understand what's drawing teens to AI companions and how to talk about it. Here are five tips to get you started:1. Start the conversation: Ask open-ended questions without judgment. Teens are more likely to share when they feel safe and understood.2. Don't dismiss it: These tools may feel strange to adults, but they often fill real emotional gaps for teens. Acknowledge their value while setting healthy boundaries.3. Set digital guidelines: Discuss privacy, safety and what to do if an AI ever gives advice that feels off or makes them uncomfortable.4. Stay informed: Monitor which apps your teen uses and how often. Some offer parental settings or usage insights.5. Encourage real-world connection: Promote activities that build empathy, cooperation and communication, things AI can't truly offer.Teens are building real emotional bonds with AI. While these digital companions can offer comfort and a sense of control, they also carry significant psychological and developmental risks.The technology is moving fast, but support systems and safeguards have not kept pace. Parents and educators should stay aware, ask questions and help teens navigate a world where emotional connections no longer require another human.Have you or someone you know used AI for support or connection? Let us know by writing to us atCyberguy.com/ContactSign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, youll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join myCYBERGUY.COM/NEWSLETTERCopyright 2025 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

1. Trump's patience with Putin 'runs out' as White House readies major trade punishment2. Israel greenlights Gaza City occupation plan3. Woman beaten by Cincinnati mob speaks out after near-death attackCATCH AND RELEASE Cincinnati mayor challenger blames bail reform, weak policing for viral beatdown. Continue reading HIGHLY UNUSUAL Ghislaine Maxwells transfer to minimum security prison draws criticism. Continue reading SHARK ATTACK Hegseth eyes return of banned military training tactic. Continue reading DEADLY AMBUSH Suspect in Pennsylvania state trooper shooting identified after being shot and killed. Continue reading MEDICAL MASQUERADE Fake nurse in scrubs busted after allegedly treating thousands of patients. Continue reading --CRIMINAL KINGPIN HUNTED US offers $50M reward for capture of Venezuelan president. Continue reading JUDICIAL OVERREACH Court orders Trump administration to stop building Alligator Alcatraz. Continue reading STEADFAST SUPPORTER Steve Bannon dismisses speculation about presidential run with two words for his 2028 choice. Continue reading MASK OFF Scathing report reveals Dem firebrand terrorizes staff and doesn't come to work. Continue reading Click here for more cartoonsLATE-NIGHT CROSSOVER Gutfeld reveals wild night with Fallon during 'Tonight Show' appearance. Continue reading STAR'S WARS Conservative actress wins battle against Disney. Continue reading ading PARTY REVOLT Dem strategist delivers brutal message to Harris about her 2028 hopes. Continue reading TEXAS HOLD'EM Abbott threatens to expand GOP gains if Texas Democrats don't come back to work. Continue reading DR. REBECCA GRANT Trump's nuclear submarine chess move should send chills down Putin's spine and yours. Continue reading MEHEK COOKE Cincinnati mob attack shows state is heading in a dangerous direction. Continue reading --NE$T EGG Trump signs order opening 401(k)s to private markets: What it means for your savings. Continue reading 'CRUCIAL' CHECKUP Cancer detection jumps in younger adults as doctors push for early testing. Continue reading DIGITAL'S NEWS QUIZ What did Netanyahu reveal in ceasefire standoff? Who admired Sydney Sweeney's jeans? Take the quiz here SUMMER PROTEST Ice cream mogul launches latest political stunt at popular Disneyland ride. Continue reading GAMBLING MAN Vegas casino owner takes issue with recent reports the city is "dead." See video TOM HOMAN We are making this country safer every day. See video PETER DOOCY White House officials really optimistic over potential Trump-Putin meeting. See video Tune in to the FOX NEWS RUNDOWN PODCAST for today's in-depth reporting on the news that impacts you. Check it out ...Whats it looking like in your neighborhood?Continue readingFacebookInstagramYouTubeTwitterLinkedInFox News FirstFox News OpinionFox News LifestyleFox News Entertainment (FOX411)Fox News Sports HuddleFox BusinessFox WeatherFox SportsTubiFox News GoThank you for making us your first choice in the morning! Well see you in your inbox first thing Monday.

While President Donald Trump previously refrained from speaking ill of Russian President Vladimir Putin, those days are over.The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine has changed the nature of their dynamic. Although the two appeared to get along, at least publicly, during Trumps first administration, their relationship has unraveled as the more recent conflict persists.In recent weeks, Trump has refused to mince his words when asked about Putin. Trump said during a Cabinet meeting July 8 he was fed up with Putin and said he was eyeing potentially imposing new sanctions on Russia."We get a lot of bulls--- thrown at us by Putin, if you want to know the truth," Trump said. "He's very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless."TRUMP MOVES NUCLEAR SUBMARINES WEEKS AFTER PRAISING SUB'S POWER IN IRAN STRIKESJohn Hardie, Russia program deputy director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, said Russia started to attract ire from Trump dating back to March after Ukraine agreed to a 30-day ceasefire. But Russia has failed to get on board with a ceasefire."Really, since then, I think Trump has come to view the Russians as the main impediment to a deal," Hardie told Fox News Digital Thursday.Additionally, Hardie said that Trump has also grown frustrated that Russia will launch drone and missile attacks against Ukraine, even after directly speaking with Putin."What he's sort of latched on to are these Russian drone and missile barrages," Hardie said. "That really seems to resonate with him." Tensions only have continued to escalate between the U.S. and Russia since the July Cabinet meeting.Trump announced July 14 that he would sign off on "severe tariffs" against Russia if Moscow failed to agree to a peace deal within 50 days. He then dramatically reduced the deadline to only 1012 days which ends Friday.The decision to reduce the timeline prompted former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to caution that "each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war."TRUMP LIFTS VEIL ON US SUBMARINES IN WARNING SHOT TO KREMLIN IN CLEVER REPOSITIONING MOVEIn addition to economic sanctions, Trump responded to Medvedev and issued a rare statement disclosing that two U.S. Navy submarines would be moved in response to escalating threats from Russia."I have ordered two Nuclear Submarines to be positioned in the appropriate regions, just in case these foolish and inflammatory statements are more than just that," Trump said Aug. 1.Trump's disclosure of the submarine presence puts additional pressure on Russia to come to the negotiating table, according to Bryan Clark, a retired submarine officer and director of the Hudson Institute think tanks Center for Defense Concepts and Technology."We have used very sparingly submarines to try to influence adversary behavior before, but this is pretty unusual, to do it against a nuclear-powered adversary like Russia in response to a nuclear threat by Russia," Clark told Fox News Digital Monday. "So I think this is trying to essentially push back on Russia's frequent and long-standing threats to use nuclear weapons in part of the Ukraine conflict."Momentum is picking up on negotiations though, and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff met with Putin Wednesday.Trump said in a post on Truth Social afterward that "great progress" was made during the meeting. And now, Trump and Putin are expected to meet face to face imminently in an attempt to finally advance negotiations to end the war between Russia and Ukraine.Still, Hardie said he is skeptical that the meeting between Putin and Trump will result in meaningful progress."I don't expect a summit to produce much," Hardie said. "And I think Putin could try to use the summit to placate Trump and kind of buy more time continues assault on Ukraine, but I think his goal is he'd love to be able to enlist Trump in his effort to impose these harsh terms on Ukraine."Russia has pushed for concessions in a peace deal that include barring Ukraine from joining NATO, preventing foreign peacekeeper troops from deploying to Ukraine after the conflict, and adjusting some of the borders that previously were Ukraine's.Its unclear if Trump plans to announce any additional economic burdens upon Russia Friday in accordance with the deadline that he imposed demanding that Russia signal willingness to end the conflict. But according to Trump, the ball is in Putins court."Its going to be up to him," Trump told reporters Thursday. "Were going to see what he has to say. Its going to be up to him. Very disappointed."The White House did not disclose any details regarding potential Friday sanctions, but said that Trump wants to meet with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Putin to resolve the conflict."The Russians expressed their desire to meet with President Trump, and the President is open to this meeting," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "President Trump would like to meet with both President Putin and President Zelensky because he wants this brutal war to end. The White House is working through the details of these potential meetings and details will be provided at the appropriate time."

The latest statistics have confirmed the social chatter thatLas Vegas tourismhas hit a "dramatic low," with some even calling Vegas an experience of the past.Even as reports indicate Las Vegas tourism is down overall, Circa Resort & Casino CEO Derek Stevens told Fox News Digital in an interview that the assessment may be "premature." (See the video at the top of this article.)Only 3.1 million people visited Sin City in June, down 11.3% compared to last year, according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA).LAS VEGAS CASINO CULTURE SUFFERS REJECTION BY GAMBLERS OF YOUNGER GENERATIONS"I think some of the data in Las Vegas indicates that some of these stories are a bit exaggerated," said Stevens. "The June gaming numbers were just released and not everything is terrible."The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGB) announced that on a statewide level, gaming revenues were $1.33 billion, which is a 3.5% increase from June 2024."In specific pockets, like where we at Circa Las Vegas are located in downtown I think people feel there's maybe a little better value. Things were really booming," said Stevens.He added, "If you really start unpeeling some layers of the onion in Las Vegas, I think you're going to find companies that have very specific areas that are a little less subject to the economy and that are doing OK."Stevens said he's spoken with other Las Vegas casino CEOs and said across the industry, there's a "mixed bag" of opinions regarding the current state of tourism."[The] high end is a little less impacted by the economy, and then there are others that are doing well as well," he said."On the other side, there's definitely some pretty significant concern about flights [into the city]."LAS VEGAS TOURISM DROPS SHARPLY AS SOME VISITORS CLAIM 'CASINOS ARE EMPTY' AMID RISING COSTSTheHarry Reid Airporthas shown a decline, dropping 4.1% compared to the same time last year, according to the website."Clearly, [there are] some concerns with regard to international tourism," said Stevens."I think that's something that you see in any heavily, heavily visited area, whether it's San Francisco, Hawaii, Southern California, Las Vegas, Florida," he added."I think everyone is in a position where you can say we're missing some of our Canadian friends who aren't visiting this year," he also said.Nevada is among the top five most visited states by Canadians, according to the U.S. Travel Association.The association warned that the United States could see a 10% reduction in Canadian travel, which is about 2 million fewer visits, according to recent reports.Stevens said he believes the lack of international visitors right now may be due to the overall global economy and exchange rates.Stevens said Circa has found a niche by being "very sports-oriented," with the resort and casino drawing in crowds for recent events."UFC has been terrific those particular weekends," he said, referencing the Ultimate Fighting Championship, headquartered in Vegas.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER"[The] fights have been great. Now we're getting into really a boom time of both groups coming for fantasy football drafts, as well as people coming to sign up for our world's largest football contest in Circus Survivor and Circa Millions."Other Vegas properties associated with attractions, said Stevens, are also keeping afloat, such as entertainment events at Sphere and musical concerts this summer."I think some properties may be feeling it more than others, but I think that's something you're going to see in any type of tourist destination It doesn't mean that every sector is necessarily down."For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyleAmid some uncertainty, he said the industry has come to the realization that the economy has slowed a bit."I think in six months, I would believe that Vegas tourism and our economy overall will be in a much better place," predicted Stevens.He noted the finalization of trade agreements will provide stability and "set the table going forward."

FIRST ON FOX: The Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE) is eliminating statewide standardized end-of-year testing for several subjects as part of an effort to give "local control back to school districts."OSDE stated that the changes will take effect in the 2025-2026 school year and will impact math and English courses in grades three through eight. In place of the standardized tests, Oklahoma will allow districts to use approved benchmark assessments that are already in use to report on students academic achievement and growth.It said the change will reduce the overall testing burden on students and teachers as well as allow teachers to focus on classroom instruction rather than test preparation. OSDE noted that the benchmark assessments will continue to comply with federal and state protections for students with disabilities.OSDE is also "exploring" future options to eliminate standardized testing for science and history in the same grades.TRANS BATHROOM POLICIES HAVE 10 DAYS TO GO, TRUMP EDUCATION DEPARTMENT WARNS 5 VIRGINIA SCHOOL DISTRICTSThis follows President Donald Trump dramatically reducing the scope of the federal Department of Education as part of an effort to eventually eliminate it entirely. After railing against the Department of Education during the 2024 campaign for being filled with "radicals, zealots and Marxists," Trump signed an executive order in March directing that the department be dismantled and its functions "returned to the States."Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said during a gathering of Republican and Democratic governors that returning education to the states "is really a nonpartisan issue" and "just means giving them back the part that is now provided by the federal government, and they're anxious for it."In a statement to Fox News Digital, OSDE explained its decision to eliminate standardized testing, calling it "a move to take power over performance from liberal teacher unions and undo a burden that has been placed on students and teachers."TRUMP DEPARTMENT OF LABOR TO ABSORB SOME EDUCATION DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIESThe department said it surveyed Oklahoma parents on the issue and found that 86% of the 15,349 respondents expressed that standardized testing was not necessary for evaluating student learning."For far too long, the teachers unions have used standardized testing to keep states in line with their woke standards," the department said.Oklahoma Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters, a Republican, told Fox News Digital, "President Trump is returning power back to the states so we can return power back to hard-working Oklahoma families."RED STATE WILL REQUIRE NEW TEACHERS PASS PRAGERU 'AMERICA FIRST' TEST TO KEEP LICENSE"The teachers-union-approach is failing our kids," said Walters. "By moving away from outdated state tests and empowering local districts, were reducing the burden on students, parents, and teachers while ensuring high-quality education that is no longer driven by bureaucrats or outside groups."Fox News Digital has reached out to the Oklahoma Education Association, Professional Oklahoma Educators and the American Federation of Teachers - Oklahoma for comment.

If you wanted to send me a letter via mail with your opinion about this column, it would cost you 78 cents.Let that sink in.Thats the current price of aforever stampin America yes, the same ones that cost 39 cents in 2006. Thats a 100% increase in less than two decades.In just the last five years, stamp prices have jumped from 55 cents to 66, then 68, then 73, 76, and now 78 cents. That is an 8% per annum inflation rate on stamps since 2020.YOU MIGHT NOT LIKE THE SOLUTION TO THE DEBT CRISIS, BUT HERE'S HOW TO FIX AMERICA'S SPENDING PROBLEMThe U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is raising prices so often, it's starting to feel like you're trying to ship your letter via Space X to Mars, not to your grandmother in Des Moines.And still, somehow, theyre losing money, the one thing government is great at.Lets unpack this. According to USPS financial statements, the agency posted a net loss of $6.5 billion in 2023. Yes,billion with a "B." This comes after price hikes on stamps, shipping and package delivery services.And the kicker? Mail volume continues to plummet. First-class mail has dropped more than 50% since 2001. Its not hard to see why. When everything from paying bills to saying "Happy Birthday" can be done with the tap of a phone screen, why would anyone fork over nearly a buck to lick a stamp?INVISIBLE TAX: GOVERNMENT DEBT IS CRUSHING YOUR FINANCESHeres the brutal truth: the U.S. Postal Service is a 247-year-old relic, clinging to a 20th-century business model in a 21st-century digital economy. Its like Blockbuster trying to survive in the age of Netflix.And who pays the price? You do. I do. Every American taxpayer does. And every business owner trying to ship a product or communicate with customers.Have you seen the cost of an overnight UPS or FedEx package as of late?And its not just stamps. USPS lost $94 billion between 2007 and 2020. The agency carries more than $188 billion in liabilities and unfunded obligations. Meanwhile, private carriers like FedEx and UPS are thriving, innovating and investing in automation while USPS remains bloated, bureaucratic and bogged down by outdated infrastructure and a labor force thats nearly impossible to reform due to union pressure and congressional meddling.THE FEDS FOOLISH INTEREST RATE POLICY IS STOPPING AMERICAS ECONOMY FROM BOOMINGSome will say, "But, Ted, the Postal Service provides a vital public good. It connects rural America. It delivers medications. It ensures equity."I dont disagree with the mission. But can we at least agree that any business public or private that loses billions of dollars every year and still raises prices for lower service should be held accountable?Heres where it gets even more ridiculous. While USPS has been hemorrhaging money and shedding mail volume, its also spending millions on failed pilot programs like banking services, Sunday deliveries that no one asked for, and electric vehicles that sound great in a press release but cost taxpayers far more than the savings theyll ever bring.CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINIONThe postmaster general has already warned that more price hikes are coming. So maybe itll be $1 to mail a letter by next year. But Ill ask you again: is your opinion worth 78 cents?In the age of social media, you can tweet me, post on my LinkedIn page or leave a comment below instantly, freely and from anywhere. Yet the very government that promised to provide "universal service" at low cost is now charging more for a worse product. And they still expect a round of applause.Recently, it took 10 days for a birthday card to get to my own mother.This isnt just about stamps. Its about government waste. Its about poor planning. Its about politicians kicking the can down the road for decades, refusing to modernize, streamline or privatize when necessary. And its about us, the American people, being asked to pay more for less and being told to be grateful for it.So, if you feel strongly about what I wrote, I dare you: write me a letter. Stick a stamp on it. Mail it to my office. But before you drop it in the blue box, just ask yourself:Is your opinion worth 78 cents?Because thats what it costs to be heard in todays America if you want to send your two cents via USPS.CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM TED JENKIN