The State Department set a record processing 24.5 million passports in 2024. Over a million Americans used the Online Passport Renewal system, saving time and enhancing efficiency. The department aims to open new facilities and streamline passport renewal through digital platforms. (UPI)
Elizabeth Francis, the oldest person in the U.S., has passed away at 115. Known for her positive personality and advice, she was also the third-oldest person globally. Despite her age, she always said that felt young and credited her longevity to no drinking or smoking, but enjoying all foods. (GMA)
McDonald’s is addressing the E. coli outbreak linked to Quarter Pounder hamburgers, removing them from 20% of U.S. stores due to suspected contamination from raw onions. Federal agencies are investigating the outbreak that has sickened 49 people in 10 states, resulting in one death and 10 hospitalizations. (AP)
The Justice Department warned Elon Musk’s super PAC that its $1 million daily giveaway in battleground states may be illegal. The lottery, requiring participants to be registered voters in swing states, has drawn pressure for potential election law violations. The PAC stands by the legality of the initiative. (NBC News)
A 66-year-old woman fell overboard on a Taylor Swift-themed cruise near Nassau, Bahamas. The U.S. Coast Guard and the Royal Bahamas Defense Force are conducting search efforts. The four-night cruise, not affiliated with Swift, had about 400 passengers and various activities planned. (ABC News)