Massive Snowstorm Hits U.S., While Immigration Enforcement Sparks Outrage
A powerful winter storm blanketed much of the United States over the weekend, leaving at least 12 people dead and more than one million without power, according to Time. The storm brought record-breaking snowfall to some areas, while in Minnesota, federal immigration enforcement actions sparked national outrage.
Bonito Lake, New Mexico, recorded the highest snowfall total in the nation with 31 inches as of Monday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. Napanoch, New York, received the second-highest total with 30 inches, followed by Jennerstown, Pennsylvania, with 24.7 inches. Time reported that snowfall totals can sometimes lag due to reporting delays. Central Park in New York City saw 11.4 inches of snow, the most ever recorded there, while Dayton, Ohio, broke its previous record with 12.4 inches of snow in one day.
Meanwhile, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, a surge in federal immigration enforcement since early January has provoked widespread condemnation. Vox reported that there have been two fatal shootings by federal immigration agents this year. On January 24, Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen, registered nurse, and legal gun owner, was shot and killed by immigration agents. According to Vox, the incident occurred after Pretti was allegedly pepper-sprayed, beaten, and forced onto his knees. Video evidence suggests he no longer had his firearm when he was shot. This shooting followed the earlier fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE officer in the same city.
The Trump administration is facing criticism and accusations of hypocrisy regarding the killing of Alex Pretti, according to multiple news sources cited by Vox. Conflicting accounts have emerged about whether Pretti was armed and resisting arrest, sparking debates about Second Amendment rights and the use of force. Personnel changes may signal a shift in federal immigration enforcement strategy following the Minneapolis shooting.
The winter storm also prompted reflection on the changing nature of snow days. As Michael Venutolo-Mantovani wrote for Vox, the rise of virtual learning means children are missing out on the unique experiences and traditions associated with snow days.
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Multiple news sources report that TikTok is investigating a potential glitch preventing users from sending the word "Epstein" in direct messages, coinciding with a change in ownership and raising concerns about content moderation. Separately, Sydney Sweeney faced criticism from the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the Hollywood Sign Trust for an unauthorized bra-hanging stunt on the Hollywood sign to promote a new lingerie brand.
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