FIRST ON FOX: Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) is facing an ethics complaint filed to the United States Senate over comments she made earlier this month that many characterized as a "threat" to conservatives who are thinking about working for the Trump administration.

During an Oct. 13 University of Chicago event, Slotkin drew criticism after a clip went viral showing her saying she wants to pursue "signature cases" against people who "enabled" President Donald Trump and push a "deterrence message" for young people.

"I want young people coming out of school to say, 'Should I go work for the Trump administration? Like, that sounds fun, I might get an opportunity.' I want them to be like, 'Lord, that might be buying myself a ton of problems that I don't want, and so let me avoid participating in that,'" she said. "I want that deterrence message sent," Slotkin said.

Slotkin is now facing an ethics complaint filed Thursday by Michael Bicksel, a University of Chicago student who first reported her remarks. The complaint was submitted to the Senate Select Committee on Ethics and argues that Slotkin proposed using congressional investigations and potential prosecutions to frighten young people away from serving in a Republican administration.

FORTY-FIVE PERCENT OF COLLEGE STUDENTS SAY VIOLENCE CAN BE JUSTIFIED TO STOP HATE SPEECH, POLL FINDS

"Recently at an event at my college, the University of Chicago, Senator Slotkin laid out a legislative-oversight agenda that involved using the legal process to terrorize members of the Trump administration in order to ‘deter’ young people from going to work for it," Bicksel wrote.

The complaint asks the committee to determine whether Slotkin's comments amounted to "improper conduct which may reflect upon the Senate," a standard described in the Senate Ethics Manual as applying to conduct that may be unethical even if it does not violate a specific law or Senate rule.

"As a college student and a conservative, this was a shocking thing to hear," Bicksel's complaint reads. "A prominent U.S. Senator came to my college and laid out a goal that I and my peers should be afraid to serve our country in the executive branch. This is well below the standard of conduct expected of a U.S. Senator and deserves investigation by the Senate Select Committee on Ethics and appropriate subsequent disciplinary action."

ELISSA SLOTKIN TELLS STUDENTS LIKE ME NOT TO WORK IN GOVERNMENT. DON'T LISTEN TO HER

Bicksel argued that Slotkin's comments were directed at students considering government service, rather than exclusively at people who commit crimes or engage in unethical conduct.

"The substance of the ‘deterrence message’ is clear as day," Bicksel wrote. "Her target was ‘young people coming out of school’ (like me and my classmates) who are debating whether they should ‘go work for the Trump administration.’"

"We are obviously not debating — as she subsequently tried to clarify — whether to go commit crimes or behave unethically," he continued. "Those who commit crimes should be punished for doing so. No one disagrees with that. All we are debating is public service, pure and simple, and Senator Slotkin says we should think twice about doing so because it might provoke the full power of the United States Senate."

Slotkin, when pressed on the response to her comment on CNN, referred to the controversy as "manufactured outrage."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"I think the thing that I've heard from my own Republican colleagues and peers, including interns and folks who work around the Hill who come to our events, they'll tell you, ‘I was worried,’" Slotkin added. "My parents were worried, you know. It's really messy. I'm not sure what to get involved in.' Politics, in general, has become messy."

The Justice Department is currently facing calls to investigate Slotkin over her remarks, Washington Examiner reported on Wednesday.

Slotkin's communication director pointed Fox News Digital to a statement made by the senator on Tuesday when reached for comment.

"Now, if you take a breath, this is all pretty crazy. A president from the Oval Office is weaponizing our justice system against an American who clearly gets under his skin. And if he can do it to me, he can do it to anyone," Slotkin said. "His supporters use a coordinated play to threaten, intimidate, and silence anyone who speaks up. It's a play to distract us from his failed economy, high gas prices, and the disastrous war he started with Iran. But if I've learned one thing from this past year, it's that you have to push back."

A Christian couple who spent more than a decade caring for foster children is celebrating a major legal victory after Washington state agreed to change its licensing rules following a dispute over requirements that foster parents use children's preferred pronouns and comply with gender identity policies, even when those requirements conflicted with their religious beliefs.

Shane and Jennifer DeGross told Fox News Digital in an interview Wednesday that the dispute began in 2022, when they attempted to renew their foster care license and discovered the state had changed its requirements concerning gender identity.

The couple said they were willing to love and care for any child placed in their home but could not agree to certain state-imposed requirements they believed violated their Christian faith.

"We were made aware that the state had updated and changed some of their requirements," Jennifer DeGross told Fox News Digital. "While we agreed that we would love and care for any child in our home, they had specific things that we could not agree to as Christians."

DOJ BACKS NUNS CARING FOR DYING CANCER PATIENTS IN FIGHT AGAINST NEW YORK TRANS IDEOLOGY MANDATE

Shane DeGross said the state required them to affirm the state's views on gender identity and human sexuality.

"Those views directly conflict with the biblical worldview of human sexuality," Shane DeGross said. "So, as Christians, we just couldn't accept that. Our allegiance is to God and the truth of Scripture. And we just couldn't abide by what they were requiring us to affirm."

Washington's licensing policies required foster parents to affirm and support LGBTQ children, including expectations concerning gender identity and the use of preferred names and pronouns. The DeGross family challenged the requirements on religious freedom grounds. Jennifer said the state eventually partially reinstated their license but restricted the ages of children they could foster.

AUTISM PROVIDERS WARN FOSTER KIDS AT RISK FROM UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES OF TRUMP'S MEDICAID FRAUD CRACKDOWN

"We felt like even when they reinstated a partial license to us that they were still discriminating against us," she said.

"When a child reached 5, they had to be removed from our home," Jennifer said. "So not only was that upsetting to us, but that's not good for kids, right?"

Jennifer argued that such a restriction could disrupt a child's placement even if the child had already spent years living with a foster family.

PATRIOTS RB TREVEYON HENDERSON SLAMS STATE OVERREACH AFTER CATHOLIC FAMILY LOSES CUSTODY IN GENDER CASE

"If we had had a child for a couple of years, and then they have to be removed just because they turned or reached a certain age, it's definitely not in the interest of children," she said.

The legal battle resulted in a settlement under which Washington agreed to revise its foster care licensing rules, addressing the conflict between the state's gender identity requirements and foster parents' religious freedom claims.

Johannes Widmalm-Delphonse, senior counsel at Alliance Defending Freedom, told Fox News Digital that the DeGross' case should serve as a lesson for the rest of the country.

"These foster care agencies, they have to respect the First Amendment rights of foster parents, as well as the children in the system and everyone that they work with," Widmalm-Delphonse said. 

"So, states should be on notice from this settlement, as well as some of the other cases that we've seen like the Bates v. Pakseresht decision, that they have to respect First Amendment rights, they have to respect free speech rights, and the way you do that is you invite as many foster parents into the system as possible on the front end, and then you match at the back end according to children's individual needs or family's abilities, comfort level, things like that, which is what they've been doing for decades, and this settlement shows that they can continue doing that now," Widmalm-Delphonse added.

WASHINGTON FATHER SUES SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR DENYING RELIGIOUS OPT-OUT FOR 5TH GRADER FROM LGBTQ INSTRUCTION

Widmalm-Delphonse said that since the settlement, Washington State has a new proposed regulation, WSR 26-20-103, currently undergoing the public notice and comment process which would in part give foster parents like Shane and Jennifer DeGross a religious exemption.

"This new rule, in part, would give foster parents like the DeGross's a religious exemption from any rule requiring them to violate their religious beliefs on gender or sexuality," Widmalm-Delphonse said.

Shane DeGross told Fox News Digital, "It's a great victory in the sense that more Christians can be available to love and care for foster kids without fear of being excluded because of their religious beliefs."

"It's a huge victory for kids that need a loving home," he added.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"We are proud of the diversity of our foster parent and kinship caregiver community who have different cultures, religious beliefs, and lived experience," the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families said in a news release on the settlement. "We are grateful that they all open their doors and provide a loving home to children and youth in foster care."

"This settlement agreement respects the religious beliefs of foster parents, while ensuring LGBTQIA+ youth are placed in an environment that is safe and supports their well-being," DCYF Secretary Tana Senn said.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Washington DCYF for further comment.

Country music star Kip Moore dropped new music for the hit series "The Terminal List."

The popular series is based on a book series written by Jack Carr. It follows Navy SEAL James Reece on the hunt for revenge.

Season one came out in 2022 with Pratt playing the lead character. Season two premiered on Oct. 21, and is based on Carr's "True Believer."

'THE TERMINAL LIST' SEASON 2 FIRST PREVIEW DROPS WITH CHRIS PRATT RETURNING AS NAVY SEAL JAMES REECE

It also includes fresh music from Moore.

Kip Moore releases new song for season two of "The Terminal List."

Moore announced Wednesday on Instagram that he made a new song – "The Wolf" – for the second season of Pratt's series.

"I was on a surf trip in Central America in January of 2024 when I got a call from Jared Shaw, who I now consider a friend, about The Terminal List. I hadn’t seen the first season at the time, but he asked if I'd read some of the scripts they were working on for season two and consider writing something for the main character. I immediately dove into season one and was hooked," Moore explained.

He continued, "I've always been fascinated by the world of special operations and I have a tremendous amount of respect for anyone willing to endure that level of training, and the sacrifices it takes. As I started reading through the scripts, I kept coming back to something Jared had scribbled in his notes: ‘It's like the battle between two wolves.’"

"That idea really stuck with me. I’ve always been drawn to exploring the more complex, human side of those experiences rather than simply celebrating the heroism. I wanted to dig into the internal battles, the weight of what these individuals carry, and the toll those experiences can take on a person's mind and spirit. I tried to put myself in the character's shoes and write from that place, exploring what he might be wrestling with on a deeper level. That's really where ‘The Wolf’ came from," Moore finished.

You can listen to the song below, and let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.

It's always great to see when worlds collide here at OutKick. We have lots of country music fans, and we have plenty of people who love action series.

Now, they're coming together with Kip Moore making music for season two of Jack Carr's "The Terminal List."

SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY OUTKICK NEWSLETTER

It really doesn't get much better than that.

OUTKICK IS NOW AVAILABLE ON THE FOX NEWS APP: CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

Are you watching "The Terminal List"? Let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.

The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Massachusetts released a video of alleged sham marriage mastermind Jennifer Gonzalez detailing her pay-for-play scheme which officials say netted her over $6 million.

The U.S. Attorney's Office accused Gonzalez of orchestrating fake marriages between U.S. citizens and illegal immigrants, charging the immigrants up to $40,000 per marriage.

Gonzalez can be seen on a video recorded by a witness cooperating with federal law enforcement explaining how her scheme worked.

FORMER USCIS OFFICIAL, ACCOMPLICE CHARGED IN ALLEGED $960K CITIZENSHIP BRIBERY SCHEME

"They will come, I will present them to the wife, they're like, 'yes, I want them, not a problem, I'll be back in, I don't know, three weeks.' And they would leave and make me hold these girls for months," she explained.

"The payment, it's agreed by both parties, OK? This is the first initial payment for the total amount of $38,000. Now, let me calculate that real quick. So $38,000 minus $3,000," she continued, while using a calculator. "That's going to give us $35,000. And then the day of the wedding, you have to bring me, what? $12,000.

WOMAN EXPOSED RUNNING VISA FRAUD SCHEME SPANNING YEARS, POSING AS IMMIGRATION OFFICER

"You and I are the ones in this contract, not nobody else. Because we don't want to get your wife and yourself into a...putting in paper about a fake marriage. You know what I mean? Does that make sense to you? Because if anything happened, we don't want them to have any proof that this was fake," she said.

Gonzalez also explained to the witness, who she believed to be an illegal immigrant, that Massachusetts was the best place to go for illegal immigrants because of its sanctuary state status.

BIDEN-APPOINTED JUDGE DEALS TRUMP ANOTHER SANCTUARY CITY DEFEAT IN MAJOR IMMIGRATION FIGHT

"Massachusetts is best place for you to be. That is a fact," Gonzalez said.

"You get health insurance. You get a lot of help as an immigrant here," she explained, adding, "Trump doesn't like this state because...the state defends us very much."

She also revealed that she stopped arranging the marriages around 2025 because of increased federal immigration enforcement.

BIRTH TOURISM SELLS AMERICAN CITIZENSHIP, AND TRUMP IS SHUTTING IT DOWN

Gonzalez further told the witness that she owned multiple properties in the Dominican Republic, which she called "my country," and in Puerto Rico.

"Miss Gonzalez got rich off selling the American dream, all the while investing her money in another country," Leah Foley, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts, told reporters during a Wednesday press conference announcing the scheme.

DOJ SAYS 11 MIGRANTS INDICTED IN MULTI-STATE SEX TRAFFICKING, DRUG, FIREARMS CASE

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

While prosecutors described Gonzalez as the ringleader of the operation, authorities arrested four other co-conspirators involved in the scheme.

Fox News Digital's James Cirrone contributed to this report.

MANCHESTER, N.H. - Former White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt says she is helping President Donald Trump choose his next press secretary after his first pick for the job lasted just five days.

"I've offered my help to the president to help him select someone who can serve him and the country well," Leavitt said Wednesday evening in an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital.

Leavitt served as Trump's press secretary from the start of the president's second term until Aug. 27, when she stepped down from the demanding role to spend more time with her two young children, including a daughter who was born in May.

Her successor, political commentator Katie Zacharia, took over earlier this month, but lasted just five days in the role, making her the shortest-serving White House press secretary in U.S. history.

TRUMP'S NEW PRESS SECRETARY OUT OF A JOB JUST DAYS AFTER ROCKY DEBUT

"White House press secretary is a tough job. I know that because I did it, obviously for almost two years, and many people say it's one of the hardest jobs in politics," Leavitt emphasized.

She noted that the job "takes a lot of preparation and sometimes you don't know how someone will perform until they go out there."

"We wish Katie the best. The job obviously was not for her, but we wish her and her family well," Leavitt added.

When it comes to whom Trump will choose next for the position, Leavitt said the president "is continuing to look over options. There's a lot of people who want that job. It's an amazing job. It provides you with incredible opportunities."

SIGN UP TO GET THE POLITICS NEWSLETTER

Asked what advice she's offered to Trump, Leavitt said, "I'll keep my private counsel to the president private, but I do obviously talk to him about what the job entails, and he knows it very well."

"Nobody understands the press better than Donald Trump. He knows he needs someone who is tough, who is smart, who understands his policies, who is loyal, and who can go out there and put up a fight," she added.

Leavitt, a New Hampshire native, served as an intern in the Trump White House after graduating from Saint Anselm College in 2019. She later became an assistant White House press secretary at the end of Trump's first term.

After Trump's defeat in the 2020 presidential election, Leavitt worked as communications director for Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York. She then served as spokeswoman for the Trump-aligned super PAC MAGA Inc. before taking over as press secretary for Trump's 2024 presidential campaign.

After being named White House press secretary following the 2024 election, Leavitt made history as the youngest person ever in the role.

DEMOCRACY ’26: STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE FOX NEWS ELECTION HUB

Leavitt also ran for Congress in 2022, winning a heavily contested GOP nomination in New Hampshire's 1st District before losing the general election to incumbent Democratic Rep. Chris Pappas.

Asked if she might make another run for public office in her home state when Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan is up for re-election in 2028, Leavitt quickly said, "No, I'm all set. I don't have any plans to run for office in the near future at all, or in the future at all."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"I am home with my family, and we're really excited about that," she explained. "Right now I'm really focused on being a wife and a mother to my two very young children. That's why I made the decision to leave Washington. So we're just happy to be home and enjoying the ride."

Leavitt officially becomes a Fox News contributor at the start of November.

If NBA referees called every travel they saw, games would never end, but blowing the whistle every now and again to remind players that they can't take an infinite number of steps would be appreciated by all involved. Unfortunately, the exact opposite precedent was set during the season opener between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Miami Heat on Wednesday.

LaMelo Ball put on an impressive performance in his official debut for Minnesota, scoring 21 points and dishing out six assists in his team's 131-106 victory on the road, but three of his 21 points should not have counted.

Just over three minutes into the first quarter, Ball dribbled around a well-set screen that got his defender off balance. Instead of driving towards the basket, he opted to pick his spot beyond the three-point line, but forgot to put the ball on the floor on his way there.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE

Ball appeared to take every bit of four full steps without taking a dribble. The carry was so egregious that each of the announcers on the broadcast couldn't help but call out how bad the no-call was.

The 25-year-old guard immediately talking trash to some courtside fans after he made the three made the whole scene that much worse. Then again, Ball and essentially every other player in the league have gotten away with traveling with the basketball throughout their NBA careers.

THE CRAIG CARTON SHOW-UNFILTERED, UNAPOLOGETIC AND UNMISSABLE. DOWNLOAD HIS DAILY PODCAST NOW!

Oftentimes, the missed travel calls take place with players driving to the basket and getting away with an extra half-step while carrying the basketball. For Ball not to get whistled while standing well beyond the three-point line is a bit of a surprise, even by NBA standards.

As for the contest itself, the Timberwolves looked as good and entertaining as expected with their new two-headed monster of Anthony Edwards and Ball in the 25-point win over Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Heat.

SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY OUTKICK NEWSLETTER

Edwards finished the night with 45 points, including nine made three-pointers, to go along with 10 rebounds.

While the duo of Ball and Edwards combining for 66 points stands out, maybe the most promising stat line to look at if you're a Minnesota fan is that the two only turned the ball over five times total in the win.

I’m a retired military prosecutor, U.S. Air Force Academy instructor, and former Wind Cave National Park Ranger. I love the life that my wife and I have built in the Black Hills of South Dakota. I’m running for Senate as an independent because I’m tired of seeing Big Money overpower common sense. The values I learned growing up in a small rural town from my machinist father—the same values that built this great country—are being treated as though they matter less than a politician’s personal ambition or a billionaire’s appetite.

More than at any time in my life, I believe our political system needs to be shaken up and that We the People need to overcome the corrupting influence of Big Money. Self-dealing is screwing hard-working, honorable South Dakotans out of their chance to live the American Dream.

I’m convinced that term limits are the best way to do it. Here’s a good example of why I believe that. Last month it was reported that my opponent, Sen. Mike Rounds, allowed one of his top advisers — who’s drawing a 6-figure taxpayer-funded salary — to simultaneously work as a lobbyist for Meta. This adviser, also a former Rounds campaign manager, has been pushing Big Money interests in the halls of the South Dakota state capitol, then advising our U.S. Senator on the very same issues, on the very same day.

TRUMP VANISHES FROM GOP SENATOR'S CAMPAIGN WEBSITE AS POLL NUMBERS PLUNGE WEEKS BEFORE ELECTION

There ought to be a law prohibiting that sort of thing. That is why, when I’m elected, the first bill I’ll introduce is to make ALL lobbying by congressional staff illegal. I’ve had enough. My second bill would be term limits. Washington’s culture is so corrupt and out of touch that the people who live there too long don’t even realize it anymore.

It was also recently reported that Mike Rounds spends more taxpayer money on private jets than any other member of the Senate.

I’m not trying to dump on Mike.

I believe Mike Rounds is a good man. I’m not here to add to the name-calling and personal meanness that does nothing to solve the very serious problems our state and nation face. I’m here to say that Washington, D.C. needs to change. Most of us can agree our local communities are the ones who pay the price when an elected official stays in Washington too long. We're paying a huge price now.

I agreed with President Donald Trump when he ran on "no new wars." As a patriot who’s proud to have served in both the Navy and the Air Force, I believe commanders-in-chief have a duty to only send our fighting men and women into harm’s way when it’s absolutely necessary. I agreed with him when he said that we needed to fight to make life less expensive. Where I come from, a promise is a promise.

But now, every time I fill up my Ram 1500 at the Corner Pantry, I’m paying over $4.00 a gallon. When I buy groceries for my family at Sonny’s Super Foods, I’m paying more all the time—especially when I buy beef grown by the best ranchers in the world, right here in South Dakota. They are now having to compete with imports from South America that aren’t fairly labeled so that American consumers can know the difference.

The Indian motorcycles that my brother works to assemble are getting harder for Americans to buy because of tariffs that we were told would make American manufacturing stronger.

Sen. Rounds has voted in favor of the Iran war every time he’s had the opportunity. He voted for the tariffs that are hurting South Dakota’s economy. He voted to make the biggest healthcare cuts we’ve ever felt, just so that companies could get tax breaks to build data centers. Wired reports that Mike has now taken more campaign contributions from data center-tied interests than from all of South Dakota itself. Those corporate donors are literally getting our money’s worth.

Sen. Rounds has been in office so long that he voted for the law that made it so that grocery stores don’t have to tell us which country their meat came from. Now he says he wants to bring those rules back. We’ve reached the point where career politicians have been in office so long they’re running against the exact things they did.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION

I’m not running to be an anti-Trump Senator or a pro-Trump Senator. I have plenty of disagreements with the left. It scares the hell out of me that young people are feeling a pull towards socialism. As a former Air Force prosecutor, I think proposals to "defund the police" and "abolish prisons" are insane. As someone who spent decades working to make America more secure, I thought President Joe Biden’s failure to keep our border secure was unacceptable and offensive.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

I’m running to put South Dakota first, and to work with anyone, whatever their politics, when it’s in the interest of our state. 

I was an ethics advisor in the Air Force. I know it’s not my job to judge people by their politics, but I do believe it’s my job to stand up against a system that isn’t going to fix itself.

The numbers are in, and they paint a disturbing picture for NASCAR as the series barrels toward its championship race in three short weeks.

Bottom line? Fans are leaving the sport ... in droves.

Nobody is watching. And those who are watching, are complaining. A lot. About the car. About the tracks. About the lack of drama, and personality, and, frankly, about the TV channel.

HAS NASCAR LOST THE SOUTH? EX-DRIVER UNLOADS AFTER SEEING "100,000 EMPTY SEATS"

Most folks have turned it off completely. Those who have stayed aren't thrilled.

I don't need to tell you guys, but that's not a great place to be.

Take a look:

Why are fans leaving NASCAR? It's simple.

Last Sunday's NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix drew a pathetic audience of just 1.2 million viewers. That number is alarming, folks. I've seen a lot of bad TV numbers for NASCAR over the years. Believe me.

It's not like they're hard to find.

But that's a low number. It's an unfathomable number given the series is smack dab in the middle of its playoffs. I never thought we'd see the day where a NASCAR Cup Series race drops below the Mendoza line (1 million), but we're getting close. Too close.

For comparison's sake, NASCAR averaged more than 4.5 million viewers per race in 2016, which was a really bad time for the sport. That's when viewers were fleeing left and right. Jeff Gordon had retired. Tony Stewart was on his way out. Dale Jr. was right behind him.

NASCAR RACE LOOKS PATHETIC WITH EMPTY SEATS, DRIVER GIVES THE FINGER & THE MOST EMBARRASSING COMMAND EVER?

There's been a nearly 50% drop-off in viewership since then! Through 33 races this season, the Cup Series is averaging 2.3 million viewers per race. Through seven Chase races (that's what we're calling the playoffs this season), the number drops to 1.5 million.

So, yeah — I'd imagine alarms are going off in the big glass building across from Daytona International Speedway this morning. At least they should be.

NASCAR MAKES MAJOR CHANGE TO 2027 DAYTONA 500 WEEK, FANS FURIOUS WITH ANOTHER CHANGE & RACE WIFE IN COSTA RICA

Now, the obvious question they'll be asking themselves is ... why? Why is this happening? Where are fans going? Why are they leaving?

To me, it's a fairly simple answer if everyone is just honest with themselves for 30 seconds. I'll go in order from what I consider most pressing, to least:

1. The TV deal stinks. It brought in a lot of money, but it's really poor for exposure. Do you know how many races have been on network TV this season? Seven. Seven! Six on FOX, one on NBC. That means there has been one race on network TV since the spring (Daytona in August). That's awful. Asking folks to hunt down the USA Network, and TNT, and then download Amazon Prime, and also find FS1 for 26 of your 33 races is a slap in the face.
2. The schedule stinks. I don't mean the tracks themselves, I mean the time of year. NASCAR is putting its 10-race "Chase" right up against college football and the NFL. That's like taking a knife to a gun fight. No sport is going to win that fight, much less NASCAR. Chase Elliott said it years ago, and it's still true today: The season needs to end around Labor Day weekend. There's no upside in going up against the NFL.
3. The Next Gen car has been a bigger turnoff than a Kamala Harris cackle. Fans despise it. Drivers despise it. You can't pass. You can't push the car. God forbid you try to run in "dirty air." Folks aren't stupid. They've seen what it's done to these races, and they've lost interest.
4. To steal a phrase from the great Rick Pitino, "Dale Jr. is not walking through that door." There's no real personality in the garage anymore, beyond Carson Hocevar. Like him or hate him, Carson has moved the needle all season. Nobody else does. Chase Elliott is your "Most Popular Driver" year in and year out, and he was supposed to be NASCAR's Dale Earnhardt Jr. replacement. That hasn't worked out. Chase has no interest in carrying that torch.

Jeff Gordon is gone. Dale Jr. is gone. Tony Stewart is gone. Kyle Busch, tragically, died. He was, perhaps, the last of the "old guard" when it came to NASCAR. Beyond hoping someone goes viral and physically attacks Carson Hocevar every week, I'm not sure who NASCAR is looking at to bring in new fans. He doesn't exist.

And finally ...

1. Let's be honest, the drama isn't there anymore. At least it's not what it's been over the past decade. Yes, the shift back to The Chase format was popular amongst hardcore NASCAR fans. I get it. But the sport gave up elimination races in the process, which is naturally going to hurt interest from casual fans. People like drama. Having an elimination race every third race in the fall certainly helped with interest. Those are gone now.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE

Now, let's try to fix NASCAR ...

OK, that was a long-winded "30 seconds" of honesty, but you get the picture. You add all those up, and I think it's fairly easy to see how the series has cratered in terms of viewership over the past few years.

As for the answers? I don't know. I'd shorten the season and own the summer. That's probably atop my list. Utilize midweek races in June and July. End the regular season in July, and end the postseason on Labor Day weekend.

That's probably the quickest and easiest fix.

THE CRAIG CARTON SHOW–UNFILTERED, UNAPOLOGETIC AND UNMISSABLE. DOWNLOAD HIS DAILY PODCAST NOW!

The TV deal is done, so I'm not sure you're changing that any time soon. A new-era car would take a while to build, so that's probably a ways off, too. As for the lack of personalities in the garage ...

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Yeah, I wouldn't hold your breath. Carson Hocevar is gonna need to keep rattling cages for years to come, I fear.

So start with the schedule, and go from there. That's my best suggestion ...

SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY OUTKICK NEWSLETTER

Because right now we live in a world where a WNBA Finals game is outdrawing a NASCAR postseason race.

And nobody wants to live in that world, folks.

FIRST ON FOX: A federal judge appointed by former President Barack Obama is being accused of "misconduct" in a case involving President Donald Trump.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, is demanding an investigation into U.S. Judge Kathleen Williams of the Southern District of Florida after she sanctioned Trump's lawyers over his case against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Jordan wrote to the Judicial Conference of the United States that "there is evidence that Judge Williams abused her judicial authority and violated fundamental tenets of judicial impartiality in connection with an unusual and unsupported order that imposed sanctions after the plaintiffs voluntarily had dismissed the underlying action."

The letter is being co-led by Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., chairman of the panel's subcommittee on courts.

OBAMA-APPOINTED JUDGE WITH TIES TO ANTI-TRUMP CONSPIRACY THEORY HIT WITH MISCONDUCT COMPLAINT

Trump, his adult sons Eric and Donald Jr., and the Trump Organization filed a lawsuit against the IRS in early 2026 seeking $10 billion in damages after a contractor with the agency leaked the president's tax returns to the press. The contractor, Charles Littlejohn, was sentenced to five years in federal prison.

APOLOGIES AND CASH HEADED TO ALLEGED ‘WEAPONIZATION’ VICTIMS IN BILLION-DOLLAR TRUMP SETTLEMENT

Trump, who filed the lawsuit in his personal capacity, had it voluntarily dismissed in May. Shortly after, however, the administration announced a settlement agreement that included $1.776 billion for an "anti-weaponization fund" for victims of "lawfare" by the Biden administration. Trump himself would receive no compensation, but would get a formal apology from the federal government and bar the IRS from ever auditing Trump or his family.

Williams, however, then accused the plaintiffs of purposely manipulating the courts to achieve the settlement and sanctioned two of the president's lawyers in a July order. Her order referred lawyer Alejandro Brito to the Florida Bar for potential disciplinary action and prevented lawyer Daniel Epstein from practicing under her jurisdiction for at least a year.

LIBERAL LAW PROFESSOR BREAKS WITH OBAMA JUDGE OVER TRUMP LAWYER CRACKDOWN: ‘I REFUSE TO TEACH’ IT

Jordan's letter called the timing of Williams' order "suspect" for coming after the case was voluntarily withdrawn.

He also accused Williams of basing the action on an amicus brief submitted by left-wing judicial activist group Democracy Defenders Action. The brief, which the group said was submitted on behalf of 35 former federal judges, called on Williams to reopen the case despite the dismissal by the involved parties and accused both sides of "fraud" over the settlement.

GOP SENATOR UNVEILS BOASBERG ACT TO STOP 'ROGUE' JUDGES FROM HANDPICKING TRUMP CASES

"Judge Williams issued her July 13 order after the plaintiffs filed a notice of voluntary dismissal of the case, ending the dispute between the parties," Jordan and Issa wrote. "Although Judge Williams invoked the court's inherent authority to impose sanctions, the Committee is not aware of Eleventh Circuit precedent applying inherent sanctions authority after a plaintiff has voluntarily dismissed a case based on briefing by partisan nonparties on an unrelated question the court never decided."

They concluded, "Judge Williams's conduct risks undermining public confidence in the federal courts. Accordingly, we respectfully ask that the Judicial Conference review this matter, including whether it warrants referral to the Judicial Council of the Eleventh Circuit or other appropriate action, and that you inform the Committee of steps taken no later than 5:00 p.m. on November 5, 2026."

CLINTON JUDGE INDEFINITELY BLOCKS TRUMP'S $1.776B ANTI-WEAPONIZATION FUND

Issa told Fox News Digital in his own statement, "The rogue federal judges who make up the Trump Resistance in Robes continue to disappoint but never surprise. Judge Williams hasn't only shown her liberal contempt for President Trump — but crossed a bright ethical line by going after his attorneys."

Trump allies, particularly in Congress, have clashed with federal judges on multiple fronts so far this term. Republicans have accused what they call "activist judges" of weaponizing their courts to block Trump's agenda.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Democrats, meanwhile, backed up Williams' skepticism of Trump's settlement. The anti-weaponization fund proposal, which has since been blocked by other courts, has received bipartisan pushback.

Fox News' "Antisemitism Exposed" newsletter brings you stories on the rising anti-Jewish prejudice across the U.S. and the world.

IN TODAY’S NEWSLETTER:
- French synagogues canceled prayers, Jews warned to hide amid riots
- Hasan Piker thinks it's fine to call Jews ‘inbred’ and ‘Zionist pigs’
- Macklemore's 'Free Palestine' tour funding anti-Israel org who cheered Oct 7

TOP STORY: Raging French riots have spiraled into absolute terror. Synagogues canceled Sabbath prayers, while terrified Jewish citizens were warned to conceal skullcaps and flee home. Violent mobs carrying Palestinian flags clashed with police, looted hundreds of stores, and flooded social media with over 1,300 hateful anti-Semitic posts. Over 2,400 rioters were arrested as fear grips the nation.

VIDEO: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defends his nation against those who say Israelis live on stolen land on ‘Life, Liberty & Levin.' WATCH HERE:

SPEWING HATE: Twitch streamer Hasan Piker ignited fierce backlash after defending his use of vile slurs, including "inbred" and "Zionist pig," against political opponents. Speaking to NPR, Piker brushed off the toxic attacks, claiming they weren't meant literally and blustered that criticism against him stems from anti-Muslim bias. The Israeli-American Council forcefully condemned his rhetoric as dangerous, dehumanizing hate speech.

CASH FOR TERROR: Rapper Macklemore launched a solo "Free Palestine" tour after getting booted from Ed Sheeran's lineup over anti-Israel antics. But outrage erupted as tour proceeds are set to fund the radical Palestinian Youth Movement—a extreme group that openly cheered Hamas's brutal October 7 massacre. Outraged Jewish groups are now demanding organizers answer for bankrolling violent extremists.

JUSTICE DENIED: A grieving relative of Shiri Bibas and her two toddlers—brutally murdered after being dragged into Gaza on Oct. 7—is taking his fight straight to the International Criminal Court. The family’s legal team filed complaints targeting Iranian officials who bankrolled Hamas, slamming the ICC for double standards and demanding arrest warrants for the regime bosses backing the atrocity.

CAMPUS CLAMPDOWN: The Trump administration made University of North Carolina knuckle under. To kill off 18 federal probes into alleged campus antisemitism and race-based admissions, the university agreed to ban protest face masks, enforce mandatory antisemitism training, and adopt strictly color-blind admissions. UNC avoided paying cash or admitting guilt, but must comply with strict federal oversight through 2028 to keep its funding.

GUEST EDITORIAL: Former New York Post editor David Christopher Kaufman argues that Barack Obama and Kamala Harris are out of touch for pushing anti-Israel rhetoric to court Black voters. He contends that African Americans prioritize domestic issues like crime and unemployment over Gaza, dismissing claims of shared Black-Palestinian struggles as a myth and pointing to polling that shows solid Black support for Israel.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "The Jewish people know what happens when hatred becomes acceptable. Throughout history, pogroms and persecution were fueled by lies that portrayed Jews as less than human. The Holocaust showed the world where the systematic dehumanization of Jews can lead." - The Israeli-American Council, condemning Hasan Piker's anti-Semitic comments.

- Looking for more on this topic? Find more antisemitism coverage from Fox News here.

- Did someone forward you this email? Subscribe to additional newsletters from Fox News here.

- Want live updates? Get the Fox News app here

The lone holdout juror who was the only one in favor of convicting her of murder for the strangling deaths of her three young children will not have to have his phone examined or face an inquiry from her defense attorney, a Massachusetts judge ruled Wednesday.

Judge William Sullivan denied Clancy attorney Kevin Reddington's motion for an evidentiary hearing.

Sullivan wrote that the potential evidence to dismiss the juror, referred to as Juror Doe in court documents but understood to be Michael Desronvil, came to light only after the mistrial was declared — which makes it irrelevant under court precedent.

LINDSAY CLANCY HOLDOUT JUROR'S LAWYER TORCHES 'LOONEY TUNES MOTION' TO INVESTIGATE HIM

The defense did not raise the issue that Juror Doe lied on the jury questionnaire before the mistrial was declared, he wrote — it originated in media reports.

"Because post-trial information potentially affecting Juror Doe's impartiality cannot be used to attack the determination that a mistrial was manifestly necessary, Clancy is not entitled to an evidentiary hearing on that issue," Sullivan found, while also noting that Reddington didn't raise the possibility that Juror Doe used a cell phone improperly until after the mistrial was declared.

LINDSAY CLANCY HOLDOUT JUROR ASKS FOR ONE THING IN NEW VIDEO AFTER MISTRIAL DRAMA

Any further inquiry into the holdout juror is inappropriate because of "the mandate that the court must not delve into a juror's subjective reasoning, thought process, view of the case, or relationship to the other jurors, and must not inquire into the jury's deliberative content, collective thought process, or any disagreement among the jury," Sullivan wrote.

Read the judge's order:

Desronvil told Fox News' Kayleigh McEnany last week that he stands by his decision not to compromise with 11 others who wanted her to be found not criminally responsible due to postpartum psychosis.

LINDSAY CLANCY HOLDOUT PRAISED AS 'AMERICAN HERO' BY LAWYER WHO SAYS HE REPRESENTS HIM

FOLLOW THE FOX TRUE CRIME TEAM ON X

SIGN UP TO GET THE LATEST TRUE CRIME NEWS

CLICK HERE FOR MORE FROM THE FOX TRUE CRIME HUB

He has taken to referring to her slain children as "The Three Angels." They were Cora, 5, Dawson, 3 and Callan, 8 months.

SEND US A TIP

He also denied lying under oath on his juror questionnaire, said jurors only used their cellphones during breaks from deliberations and denied claims from other jurors that he'd ignored reasonable doubts about the case.

LINDSAY CLANCY'S 'SHOOTER MCGAVIN' UNLOADS ON 'HOODIE-WEARING LAWYER' AMID WAR OF WORDS OVER HOLDOUT JUROR

GOT A TIP?

Reddington has asked the court to preserve juror records from all 12 panelists and six alternates, including their questionnaires, courthouse hallway surveillance video taken outside the deliberation room and sign-in sheets for the jurors' cellphones.

LISTEN TO THE NEW 'CRIME & JUSTICE WITH DONNA ROTUNNO' PODCAST

But it was only Desronvil's phone he's asked to have examined specifically — between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on each deliberation day.

LINDSAY CLANCY HOLDOUT JUROR'S LAWYERS SAY THEY PLAN BAR COMPLAINT AGAINST REDDINGTON

GET BREAKING NEWS BY EMAIL

"Everybody had their cellphones and our cell phone was used when we had a break," the holdout juror said. "So not during deliberation."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Clancy returns to court on Nov. 2.

Tony Romo's loss has been J.J. Watt's gain at CBS – and now it's permanent.

Watt on Thursday was named lead analyst for the NFL on CBS in a new multi-year contract agreement. The announcement was made by David Berson, Chairman of Skydance's Global Sports Group.

Watt will continue to call the network’s top NFL games alongside Jim Nantz and Tracy Wolfson as CBS Sports’ lead NFL announce team, including during the 2027 season when they call Super Bowl LXII in Atlanta.

TONY ROMO AND CBS PART WAYS BUT HISTORY SUGGESTS ANALYST WILL BE BACK ELSEWHERE

"I’ve had a front-row seat to J.J.’s growth as a top-tier broadcaster, watching him tackle this role just like he did his Hall-of-Fame playing career," Berson said in a release by the network. "He’s insightful, entertaining, passionate, meticulous in his preparation, and the ultimate teammate. He has a unique ability to see things and communicate to fans of all levels. We are thrilled to have him leading our NFL coverage."

Watt didn't start the 2026 NFL season in his current role. That belonged to Romo, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback.

NFL ANALYST TONY ROMO PLACED ON LEAVE BY CBS SPORTS FOLLOWING DRUNK DRIVING ARREST IN WISCONSIN

But Romo ran afoul of his assignment when he was arrested on July 23, after a traffic stop on southbound Interstate 43 near downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He later pleaded no contest to a first-offense OWI, with the sentence including a six-month revocation of his driving privileges and an alcohol-assessment requirement.

CBS said on July 31 that Romo was on leave "until further notice," but then the network announced on Oct. 2 that it had "mutually agreed to part ways" with its long-time lead analyst.

WITH TONY ROMO OUT AT CBS, TROY AIKMAN AND GREG OLSEN SUDDENLY BECOME LOGICAL REPLACEMENTS

Watt, meanwhile, was the next man up. He has served as the network's lead analyst since the start of the season and that now becomes a permanent role after what was obviously a successful trial period.

The network chose the man in the seat over other possible permanent replacements for Romo, Greg Olsen and others among them.

"I am incredibly honored and grateful to have the opportunity to represent CBS Sports and all of the fantastic people who make this place so special," Watt said in a statement. "From the brotherhood of The NFL Today to my crews calling games, I couldn’t ask for better teammates alongside me on this television journey.

"I am thankful to David Berson for his leadership, vision and trust. I love this job and can’t wait to see ya Sunday with Jim and Tracy and many more Sundays to come!"

Watt joined CBS Sports in 2023 as a studio analyst on The NFL Today. Last season, Watt moved to the booth to call games with Ian Eagle and Evan Washburn.

Watt was a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and was honored as the 2017 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

FOLLOW ARMANDO SALGUERO ON X: @ARMANDOSALGUERO

Former New York Rangers star Ron Duguay has died at age 69 after a bout with cancer.

Duguay's girlfriend, former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin, announced the news on social media Thursday.

"It's with a shattered heart, but also deep peace knowing Ron is with Jesus now. He fought so hard. Love never ends," Palin posted to X.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE

Palin posted on her Instagram Story on Wednesday asking for prayers for the former NHLer.

Duguay spent his first six NFL seasons with the Blueshirts before joining the Detroit Red Wings for the better half of three seasons and a short stint with the Pittsburgh Penguins. He returned to the Rangers for two seasons and wrapped up with the Los Angeles Kings.

"The New York Rangers organization mourns the loss of Ron Duguay, one of the most popular players in franchise history," the team said in a statement. 

NHLER ANNIHILATES FORMER TEAMMATE WHO BEGGED FOR TRADE WITH CRUSHING HIT IN FIRST MATCHUP

"Ron's signature skating style, with his hair flowing as he moved down the ice, captivated The Garden Faithful, and his skill, tenacity, and charisma earned him the admiration of all New Yorkers. We join the hockey community in sending our condolences to Ron's friends, family, and loved ones during this difficult time."

In his 864 games, he scored 274 goals and handed out 346 assists.

SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY OUTKICK NEWSLETTER

Duguay, who made his NHL debut in 1977, continued to play in other leagues until finally hanging up the skates in 1999. He began his pro career with the Ontario Hockey League in 1973.

Virginia state Senator Lillie Louise Lucas was indicted Thursday on five charges that include drug trafficking, money laundering, fraud and firearms charges after being accused of running a marijuana distribution enterprise, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. 

Lucas is among seven indicted in the sprawling racketeering scheme, a group that includes her two daughters, Lisa Lucas-Burke and Theresa Lucas-Lamb, and her grandson Ryan Eichelberger, Attorney General Todd Blanche said in a Thursday press conference.

"Louise Lucas has served in a position of public trust in the Commonwealth of Virginia for over three decades," Blanche said in a DOJ statement. 

"The charges alleged in this indictment reveal the behavior of a public servant who put her own financial interests before the people she was elected to serve. Our federal prosecutors will continue to be guided by the facts and evidence that led a grand jury to indict Ms. Lucas and her alleged co-conspirators."

DEMS BLAST TRUMP OVER VIRGINIA FBI RAID BUT PROBE STARTED UNDER HIS PREDECESSOR

The 82-year-old Lucas has served as a Virginia state senator since 1991, and as the president pro tempore of the state's Senate since 2020. As president pro tempore, she is the presiding member of the state senate in the absence of the state's lieutenant governor. 

She has also served as chair of the state's Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee since 2024.

"Through her elected office, Senator Lucas has been a public servant of the people of Virginia. Her first duty should have been looking out for her constituents before herself, but the charges listed in the indictment reflect the alleged behavior of a public servant who put her own financial interests before the people she was elected to serve," Blanche said Thursday. 

The DOJ said Lucas led the Lucas Enterprise with a close-knit group of friends and family that included her two daughters and a grandson. 

"[They] orchestrated a multi-year scheme to enrich their own criminal marijuana enterprise, 'the Lucas Enterprise,' using Lucas' position as Chairwoman of the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee to insulate the enterprise from criminal scrutiny and influencing legislation to financially benefit themselves," FBI Director Kash Patel said in the statement. 

Lucas was directly involved in a wide range of activities within the enterprise, including the acquisition and distribution of 100 kilograms or more of marijuana and for the laundering of the drug sales proceeds, the DOJ said.

The state senator opened The CBD Shoppe and The Cannabis Outlet in 2019, according to the indictment. The pot shops' openings came nearly two years before Virginia officially legalized marijuana for recreational use on July 1, 2021.

In 2021, Lucas and her daughter Lisa Lucas-Burke, who is currently running for mayor in Portsmouth, Virginia, also opened The Cannabis Outlet in Portsmouth. 

SPANBERGER REFUSES TO HONOR ICE DETAINER IN MURDER CASE, ESCALATING SHOWDOWN WITH TRUMP DHS

During a conversation with an unindicted co-conspirator, Lucas pushed for favorable language in a Virginia state bill on marijuana reform, telling the co-conspirator, "This is our last chance at generational wealth…I've got too old to not be greedy," the indictment stated. 

The FBI raided Lucas' office and businesses in May.

Lucas responded to the indictment Thursday morning with a post on X.

"Today, the FBI, the Department of Justice, and the full weight of the federal government have been wielded against an 82-year-old great-grandmother," she wrote.

"I grew up under Jim Crow. I've seen what happens when people in power try to silence those who stand up to them. I spent my life fighting back, and I'm not stopping now," she continued.

"I'm not new to this. I'm true to this. I will not be intimidated. I will not be bullied. And I will not back down," she concluded. 

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Four other co-conspirators were charged in the indictment: Prince Albert William Hudson III, Theresa Lucas-Lamb, Carlton Upton Jr. and Tameka Johnson.

Lillie Louise Lucas and Lisa Lucas-Burke's mayoral campaign did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital for comment. 

Ever find something you want to buy online, leave it sitting in a browser tab and then completely forget where you saw it? Maybe you spotted a great pair of headphones while searching Google. Later, you found a birthday gift at another retailer. Before long, you've got a dozen tabs open and no idea which store had the better deal.

Google thinks it has a solution. On Oct. 15, the company began the U.S. rollout of Universal Cart, a new artificial intelligence-powered shopping tool that brings products from different retailers into one place. It also tracks prices, watches for restocks and helps you find savings before checkout.

With holiday shopping approaching, the timing could be especially useful. But there's another question worth asking. Will having everything in one cart help us spend less, or simply make it easier to buy more?

AMERICANS SAY THEY'RE BROKE. SO WHY CAN'T THEY STOP SPENDING SO MUCH?

Join our upcoming CyberGuy LIVE class: 5 Ways to Travel Smarter and Save Money

In this free live online class, Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson will share five practical ways to protect your trip and your wallet this holiday travel season. You'll learn how to secure your phone and personal information, find better travel deals, avoid common scams, save money on bookings and use technology to make your travels easier and less stressful. No technical experience is needed.

Join us Saturday, October 31, at 11 AM ET / 8 AM PT. Register for free now at CyberGuyLive.com.

AMAZON ABOUT YOU MAY KNOW YOU A LITTLE TOO WELL

What is Google Universal Cart?

Google Universal Cart is a shopping hub that works across Google Search and the Gemini app. Instead of keeping separate lists of products you might buy, you can save items from different retailers in one place. For example, you might find a coffee maker while searching Google and add it to your Universal Cart. Later, while talking with Gemini about gift ideas, you could save a pair of sneakers from another store. When you return, both products will be waiting for you. Google first previewed the tool in May 2026. Now, Universal Cart is rolling out to U.S. shoppers. It uses Google's Shopping Graph, which contains more than 60 billion continually refreshed product listings. That information helps the system monitor prices and availability across supported products.

4 ways Google's new AI shopping cart can help you save

The biggest attraction here is convenience. But Google has added several features that could also help you avoid paying more than necessary.

1. Keep products from different stores in one cart

Shopping online often means bouncing between websites. You find something at Target, check another item at Walmart and then head to Sephora for a gift. Remembering where you saw everything can become a chore. Universal Cart lets you save supported products you discover through Google Search and Gemini. More importantly, your saved items stay together when you return to shopping. That could come in handy when you're shopping for several people or making a big purchase that requires some research. You can keep your options organized without committing to buying anything right away.

2. Get alerts when prices drop or products return

Here's the feature I find particularly interesting. Universal Cart can monitor saved products and notify you when a price drops. It can also alert you when something that sold out becomes available again. Suppose you're considering a new television but aren't ready to spend the money. Rather than checking the same retailer every morning, you can save it and let Google's shopping system watch for changes. The alerts could be especially helpful heading into Black Friday and the holiday shopping season. Still, remember that a price reduction doesn't automatically guarantee the lowest price available.

IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION IS CHANGING: WHAT TO LOOK FOR

3. Find promo codes and credit card savings

This is where Google's AI starts doing some extra work. Universal Cart can surface relevant promotional codes and consider benefits associated with your payment cards. Let's say you have multiple credit cards but can't remember which one offers better rewards at a particular retailer. Universal Cart uses information from Google Wallet to understand supported credit card benefits and help you choose between payment methods. It can also show relevant promotional codes directly in your cart, potentially helping you find savings you might otherwise miss. However, I would still check the details before choosing a card. Rewards programs come with conditions, and the highest points offer may not always translate into the greatest savings.

4. Check out without starting over

Once you're ready to buy, Universal Cart offers a more streamlined checkout experience with participating retailers. In some cases, you can complete the purchase using Google Pay directly from the cart. Alternatively, Google can transfer your selected items to the retailer's website so you can finish your order there. Google says its simplified checkout experiences include retailers such as Nike, Sephora, Target, Ulta Beauty, Walmart and Wayfair, along with many Shopify merchants. However, the available checkout options depend on the retailer. Either way, the retailer remains the seller of record and handles order confirmations and customer support. That means you'll continue dealing with the merchant for delivery questions or returns.

119,000 FAKE SHOPS COULD STEAL YOUR CREDIT CARD DETAILS

How to get started with Google Universal Cart

Google began rolling out Universal Cart to U.S. users on Oct. 15. The feature works across Google Search and the Gemini app, although availability may vary as the rollout continues. To explore it, open Google Search or Gemini and look for products you're interested in buying. When Universal Cart becomes available in your shopping experience, you can save supported products from different retailers. Google says those items will remain in your cart when you return, allowing you to pick up where you left off. You can also use the cart to monitor price changes, discover promotional offers and review available checkout options. However, Google hasn't provided a single set of instructions that applies to every device. The appearance and placement of these features may vary.

NEW AMAZON AI SEARCH TURNS WORDS INTO SHOPPABLE IMAGES

Does Google's Universal Cart work with every retailer?

Not necessarily. Google says Universal Cart can organize products across retailers, but that doesn't mean every online store supports every feature. The products you can save depend on supported shopping experiences. Meanwhile, checkout options vary depending on the merchant. Some purchases can happen through Google Pay in the cart, while others require you to finish on the retailer's website. Google originally introduced Universal Cart in May with plans to bring it to Search, Gemini, YouTube and Gmail. However, its October 15 launch announcement specifically confirms availability across Search and Gemini in the U.S. Google has not announced a confirmed launch date for Universal Cart integration with Gmail or YouTube.

What's powering Google's new shopping experience?

Behind the scenes, Google uses something called the Universal Commerce Protocol, or UCP. It's a shared technical standard designed to help AI-powered shopping tools communicate with retailers and payment systems. For shoppers, the technical details are less important than what they make possible. UCP helps Google connect product discovery with checkout, reducing the need to jump between different shopping experiences. Google has also been expanding AI shopping beyond the cart. Its Let Google Call feature, for example, can use AI to contact nearby stores and check product availability. Amazon has been developing AI-powered shopping tools, while OpenAI offers AI agents that can assist with shopping-related tasks. The competition to become your digital shopping assistant is heating up.

What about your shopping privacy?

Having Google organize your shopping could be convenient, especially if you already use Search and Gemini. Still, it's worth considering how much shopping information you're comfortable keeping within your Google account. Universal Cart uses Google Wallet to help identify supported payment benefits and relevant offers. However, Google's launch announcement doesn't provide detailed information about how long Universal Cart shopping data is retained or exactly how it may be used for advertising. Before relying on the feature, review your Google account's privacy settings and Google's published privacy policies. For now, I would avoid assuming that adding something to Universal Cart keeps that shopping interest private. And if you're buying a surprise gift for someone who shares access to your Google account, think twice before saving it there. Of course, the usual online shopping precautions still apply. Before completing a purchase, check the final price and verify that you're buying from a legitimate seller. A familiar checkout experience shouldn't replace those basic habits. For more help spotting suspicious sellers, see our guide on how to tell whether an online store is real or a scam.

Kurt's key takeaways

I like the idea of having one place to keep track of everything I'm considering buying, especially when the holidays roll around. The price alerts could be genuinely helpful. And if Google's AI can find a discount code I would have otherwise missed, I'm all for it. But I'm also watching where this is heading. Google is making shopping increasingly convenient, and that convenience can be a double-edged sword. When a company knows what you're interested in buying and makes checkout easier, there's less time to reconsider a purchase. My advice? Use Universal Cart to do your homework and save money. Just don't let the technology do the deciding for you.

Would you trust Google's AI to help you shop and choose how to pay, or are we giving tech companies too much influence over what we buy? Let us know by writing to us at CyberGuy.com.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Newsletter

• Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
• For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
• Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.

Rep. Jimmy Patronis, R-Fla., is asking the Atlantic Coast Conference to disclose its policies governing online sports betting by conference employees, referees and other individuals connected to its competitions.

In a letter sent Thursday to ACC Commissioner Jim Phillips and the conference’s board of directors, Patronis said the request was prompted by the ACC’s support for the Protect College Sports Act, a sweeping federal proposal addressing NIL rights, revenue sharing, athlete health and safety, transfers and other issues in college athletics.

"Seeing as the ACC is asking Congress for help with NIL, I believe we must have transparency regarding each body’s policies and how they navigate online betting," Patronis wrote.

REPORTER'S NOTEBOOK: COUNTDOWN IS ON AS SENATE RACES TO PASS CRYPTO, COLLEGE SPORTS BILLS

The Senate passed the Protect College Sports Act, S. 4668, by a 77-22 vote on Sept. 28. The legislation now awaits consideration in the House. Supporters describe the bill as an effort to establish national standards for NIL compensation, revenue sharing, scholarships, medical coverage and the preservation of women’s and Olympic sports.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE

THE CRAIG CARTON SHOW–UNFILTERED, UNAPOLOGETIC AND UNMISSABLE. DOWNLOAD HIS DAILY PODCAST NOW!

Patronis asked the ACC to provide its online gambling policies before Congress returns in November, including rules governing staff members, officials and "other interested parties." He also questioned how the conference is protecting the integrity of college sports as sports betting becomes more widespread.

SENATE MOVES TO REIN IN COLLEGE SPORTS 'WILD WEST' WITH SWEEPING NEW RULES FOR PLAYERS, SCHOOLS

The NCAA has continued to enforce restrictions on wagering that could affect the integrity of college competition. The association says violations can result in severe penalties, including the loss of athletic eligibility, while warning that betting-related harassment and pressure can affect athletes, coaches and officials.

SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY OUTKICK NEWSLETTER

At the same time, the NCAA’s Division I Administrative Committee has moved toward allowing athletes and athletics staff to bet on professional sports, while preserving restrictions involving college competitions. The NCAA said conferences and schools may impose additional rules of their own.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The ACC has been involved in lobbying efforts surrounding the Protect College Sports Act, which conference leaders have described as a way to create more consistent national rules for college athletics

Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., denied Wednesday that she married her former husband, Ahmed Nur Said Elmi, to commit immigration fraud and pushed back against claims that they are related.

But when asked if there's any familial relation with her ex-husband, Omar admitted, "Not to my knowledge." 

The interview marked the Somali-born congresswoman's first time speaking with the media since federal agents searched her Washington, D.C., residence on Oct. 12. The congresswoman's office has not responded to Fox News Digital's repeated requests for comment regarding the investigations and raid on her home earlier this month.

ILHAN OMAR BELIEVES TRUMP RAID ON HOME WAS MEANT TO 'INTIMIDATE AND SCARE PEOPLE' FROM VOTING

"It all started with the Somali blog," Omar told MS Now host Chris Hayes regarding longstanding rumors that they are siblings. "Somebody put it there, that he had to have been my brother or something to that effect."

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents executed a court-authorized search warrant as part of an ongoing federal criminal investigation into possible false statements in Omar's immigration and naturalization documents.

The Justice Department has not publicly detailed the allegations.

FEDERAL AGENTS RAID ILHAN OMAR'S DC HOME AMID IMMIGRATION FRAUD INVESTIGATION

U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew J. Sharbaugh of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia approved the warrant, according to court-related reporting.

Omar has denied wrongdoing and called the investigation politically motivated. She appeared publicly for the first time since last Monday's raid with a video posted to social media from the back of a car where she asked supporters to keep sending her money.

Federal authorities issued more than a dozen grand jury subpoenas, including to members of Omar's family, and seized her cellphone during the investigation, according to The Associated Press.

Fox News Digital reported that Omar's sister, Sahra Noor, spoke with federal investigators last week in the wake of the raid.

ILHAN OMAR RAID SPARKS OMINOUS PREDICTION FROM WATCHDOG: 'THEY PROBABLY GOT THE GOODS'

A separate inquiry from the immigration fraud investigation is examining Omar's campaign finances and financial disclosures. 

That investigation reportedly began during the Biden administration in 2024. The complaint about her massive wealth disparity in her disclosures was dismissed by congressional ethics hawks but is now being investigated by authorities outside the Capitol, U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro announced last week.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Both investigations remain ongoing.

A coyote put its jumping skills on display to grab a piece of fruit.

As our loyal readers know, nature and outdoors content is easily some of the best kinds of content you can find on the internet.

You never know what you're going to see, and it's often a reminder how lucky we are to live in a country with such beautiful nature and scenery.

VIRAL NATURE VIDEO CAPTURES STUNNING ALBINO DEER IN WISCONSIN NORTHWOODS, AND IT LIVES UP TO THE HYPE

Well, we have a real doozy today.

Coyote shows off elite jumping skills to snatch a pear.

A Facebook video shared by Tom Miranda is going viral for all the right reasons. The footage shows a coyote getting some serious air in order to snatch a pear off a tree.

TRAIL CAM CAPTURES BUCK WALKING AROUND WITH ANOTHER DEER'S ANTLERS DANGLING FROM ITS RACK

I'm not talking about just a few inches of air. The coyote absolutely launched itself into the air to grab the piece of fruit.

Miranda captioned the epic video "Coyote eating pears!"

Give it a watch below, and let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.

Many people in rural areas of America absolutely hate coyotes and for good reason. They're a massive nuisance.

They attack livestock, young calves and can go after family pets. They're a problem that many people deal with by simply shooting them.

Hunting coyotes is extremely popular in a state like Wisconsin. Having said that, great footage is simply great footage, and that's what we have here.

SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY OUTKICK NEWSLETTER

That coyote has an outrageous vertical lift.

OUTKICK IS NOW AVAILABLE ON THE FOX NEWS APP: CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

What do you think of the epic footage? Let me know at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.

Welcome to Screencaps, "America's Best Daily Column," as named by the readers. Screencaps, which publishes seven-days-a-week, is a mix of sports, pop culture, and emails from sane readers from around the world. This column isn't for the coastal elites. Give us a week to steal your heart. Our track record is pretty good. Let's have some fun.

Thank you, Paige

Ladies, have you been wondering how to tee up a golf ball? You're in luck, Paige and her playing partner have created a step-by-step lesson plan.

I have to give credit to Paige. She spent years as OutKick's No. 1 ranked golf influencer in the world, but the content was just Paige in some costume and it started to get old. Once she started doing this playing partner thing where she leans into just being Paige, giggling, dropping innuendo jokes and having fun, the content HAS POPPED.

PAIGE SPIRANAC NEEDS TO EMBRACE FULL INTEGRITY GOLF AFTER PUTTING INCIDENT, TRUMP'S NEW HIRE & DITKA!

The formula seems to be rather simple: Create content that neanderthals will share in their golf group chats.

"Good girls bend at the knee, bad girls bend at the hip . . . Or something like that . . . might be the other way round," some guy named Rich, who's clearly in a golf group chat, wrote on Instagram.

By the way, that's Kendall Toole, the former Peloton instructor golfing with Paige. I'm sure some of you who rode a stationary bike during COVID remember her.

📩 Email: joe.kinsey@outkick.com
Send photos, stories, tips, rants—whatever you've got.

📰 Screencaps Page:
👉 Read the latest Screencaps

I deserve an IMDb entry after doing this voice work for the Cal McCallister show

In case you've been in a coma, OutKick's Matt Reigle created this show and has been using OutKick talent to voice many of the characters. In this episode, my voice talent is on display. Give it a watch and rate my performance.

Speaking of OutKick coworkers, I have to give props to OutKick senior WNBA writer (I gave him that title; it's not an official role) Dan Zaksheske for this single piece of content

This is about as perfect as it gets and shows exactly what it's like to be an OutKick outsider going into many of these environments where the Big Js and the team media staffs absolutely despise you. But, someone has to do it.

Dump Dinners: Are the Millennial parents doing this stuff so they can collect 'Likes' on social media or is it to actually have fun with the kids?

I'm on the fence here. Part of me feels like this would be fun with toddlers who are a complete mess anyway, why not let them go wild. The other part of my brain tells me this is just another dopamine hit for Millennial parents who want to throw this content on Instagram so their yuppie friends smash that like button.

Random Mailbag Time®

• Kevin F. in Naples, FL writes: Food that is hard to screw up? Nachos. A sign of a bad restaurant is when their nachos are terrible.

Kinsey: Hold up, nachos are screwed up at an astounding rate. In fact, a few years ago, I told Mrs. Screencaps that there wasn't a single place within 20 miles of our house that can do nachos correctly.

Burning shredded cheese onto chips isn't nachos. I got to the point where I couldn't even trust the Mexicans to produce a legit plate of nachos. I get where Kevin's going here, but they're easy to screw up because these places don't put in the effort.

• Kevin in Frederick checks in: Checking out the site and the Astros chick made me think about the ALCS and WS. I had to jump on the 4 letter website to see where the ALCS stood - the World Series starts Friday, after all, right? Just checked, and apparently it's over (Go Rays!). Didn't even know.

RAYS PUNCH THEIR TICKET TO THE WORLD SERIES, TAKING DOWN GUARDIANS IN GAME 6 TO SET UP SERIES WITH BREWERS

It serves MLB right to have to show the Trop for at least 2 games. Place is a soulless sh–box unlike American Family Field (aka Miller Park). Would cheer for the Brewers if Uke was still kicking it. Would love to hear him call a WS for the home team.

Never really been a MLB fan since the days of the Cubs afternoon games interrupting the 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM window of Scooby Doo and Tom and Jerry - stupid Cubs.

Pulling for TB, (another fan base that does not deserve a title) as I lived there while Sapp was playing. He was always a jerk. His philosophy was always he wouldn't take pics or sign anything because someone would be left unhappy - so he just made everyone unhappy. At least he was consistent.

Finally, The WNBA finals fix is in!. Atlanta beats GSV on the road and gets 15 more FT's than the home team? The WNBA decided they've got the chance to ride the Angel Reece train and they are gonna do just that - by any means possible. This is going 7 games for sure...and crowning her as the new face of the WNBA. Can't promote CC over a WNBA champ can you?

• Greg writes on the world of fast-food buffets: KFC has a good all-u-can-eat buffet here in Tallahassee.

• CF in Kansas tells me: We went to Wendy’s drive-thru the other day and "lo and behold!" there was an older lady working the window.  We had a smooth experience for a welcome change.  Perhaps that Wendy’s manager reads your column and was smart enough to take your advice.  Bring back the old ladies!!!!!!

Kinsey: Thank you for this report, CF. The quicker Wendy's rids itself of the meth addicts and prison-release system workers, the sooner this brand restores order. Now, I'm concerned that too much damage has been done, but it's a great step. Remember how Cracker Barrel created an unnecessary mess with that whole logo change idea from the Rachel Maddow ripoff CEO? She learned a valuable lesson, left and now look at the stock: It hit $69/share this week.

Bring back the Superbar. Fire the meth addicts. I'd even sell monthly Superbar subscriptions. VIP lines like you're waiting for a ride at Cedar Point. You know what Chick-fil-A doesn't have? A f'ing SUPERBAR! DO IT, WENDY'S!

• Greg shares his experience with Warren Sapp: I graduated Univ of Miami in 1978 and have been a huge Cane fan since 1974, my first year on campus.   I don’t recall the exact year but it was likely around 2004,  I was returning back to Florida from Nassau, and Warren Sapp was on the same plane.  After we landed,  I was standing in the terminal with some Cane fans who just wanted to shake his hand and perhaps get a picture.  He could not have been more UNFRIENDLY AND RUDE as he ungraciously denied their request.  I knew from that moment on that despite being a great football player, he was a lousy human being.  It is no wonder you don’t see too many endorsement deals for this miserable person.

How to sync your TV to NFL radio broadcasts

– Tom T. says: Finally! You are covering a topic on which I am an expert. I have been listening to NFL home team broadcasts synced with the TV since Sonny & Sam were calling the Washington REDSKINS back in the 80's and 90's. Back then, over the air AM radio was already synced perfectly with cable TV, so all we had to do was mute the TV and turn on the Technics receiver pre-tuned to 960 AM.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGE

Nowadays, I listen to the skins on BIG100 out of DC, over the Internet. It is normally about 60 seconds ahead of the cable TV broadcast, so I have to pause TV1 AND pause TV2, which shows Redzone channel. I usually sync on the opening kickoff. I also have to avoid looking at my fantasy football scoreboard until commercial breaks, so I can remain in the 60 second "cone of silence".

A funny thing happens around 5pm, however. At that time, BIG100 starts telling me that I am out of the authorized listening area, so for 4pm or night games, I have to rely on an NFL+ subscription, which runs about $13 per month to listen to any game.

Most of the time, everything stays synced up, but occasionally it is necessary to re-sync. If you can handle that, it is the BEST way to watch your favorite team. I was travelling for work on Monday, and I ended up watching the second half on mute, because I was sooooooo tired of Buck and Troy sucking up to Kyle Shanahan and talking about how much the REDSKINS stink..... I can't handle the truth.

THE CRAIG CARTON SHOW–UNFILTERED, UNAPOLOGETIC AND UNMISSABLE. DOWNLOAD HIS DAILY PODCAST NOW!

Kinsey: I'm still not hearing how you sync the broadcast with the radio when the radio is running ahead of the video stream. Are you guys pausing the radio broadcasts for a set amount of time? Have you determined the exact amount of delay the TV stream is on and then you use some sort of counter to get this stuff perfectly synced?

– Steve C. in Kentucky writes: You have to delay and pause both the tv and radio apps then sync them by myself.  After a while it is pretty easy.

#######################

SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY OUTKICK NEWSLETTER

That should be more than enough content to get the juices pumping on a Thursday morning. The sun is still out here in Ohio. The weather has been absolutely phenomenal. I'm talking 69, sunny, no wind, no clouds. Just amazing for this time of year which means we're probably going to get pummeled in about seven days.

Anyway, let's enjoy life. Let's get some work done and get one step closer to the weekend.

Numbers from :

Stuff You Guys Sent In & Stuff I Like :

Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico challenged his opponent, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R), to a debate hosted by TMZ, renewing his calls for the Republican to face him ahead of the November election. In an interview with TMZ, Talarico said Paxton has repeatedly ignored his invitations to debate him and suggested the entertainment…