South Florida Local News

Today is Tuesday, March 3, the 62nd day of 2026. There are 303 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On March 3, 2005, millionaire adventurer Steve Fossett became the first person to fly a plane around the world solo without stopping or refueling, landing in Salina, Kansas, where he took off 67 hours earlier.

Also on this date:

In 1845, Florida became a U.S. state.

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In 1849, Congress established the U.S. Department of the Interior.

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the act creating the National Academy of Sciences.

In 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed a bill making “The Star-Spangled Banner” the national anthem of the United States.

In 1943, in London’s East End, 173 people died in a crush of bodies at the Bethnal Green Tube station, which was being used as a wartime air raid shelter.

In 1945, Allied troops fully secured the Philippine capital of Manila from Japanese forces during World War II after a monthlong battle that destroyed much of the city.

In 1969, Apollo 9 blasted off from Cape Kennedy on a mission to test NASA’s lunar module.

In 1991, motorist Rodney King was severely beaten by Los Angeles police officers after a high-speed chase in a scene captured on amateur video that sparked public outrage. (The subsequent acquittal of four officers of felony assault and other charges in April 1992 triggered days of rioting and dozens of deaths in Los Angeles.)

In 2022, OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma reached a nationwide settlement over its role in the opioid crisis, with the Sackler family members who own the company boosting their cash contribution to as much as $6 billion in a deal intended to stanch a flood of lawsuits.

Today’s birthdays:

• Filmmaker George Miller is 81.
• Singer Jennifer Warnes is 79.
• Author Ron Chernow is 77.
• Football Hall of Famer Randy Gradishar is 74.
• Musician Robyn Hitchcock is 73.
• Actor Miranda Richardson is 68.
• Radio personality Ira Glass is 67.
• Olympic track and field gold medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee is 64.
• Rapper-actor Tone Loc is 60.
• Hockey Hall of Famer Brian Leetch is 58.
• Actor Julie Bowen is 56.
• Actor David Faustino is 52.
• Actor Jessica Biel is 44.
• Singer Camila Cabello is 29.
• NBA forward Jayson Tatum is 28.

By STEVEN SLOAN

WASHINGTON (AP) — For Democrats demoralized at being shut out of power in Washington, the past several months have offered reason for optimism.

A party often beset by ideological division has largely been unified in opposition to President Donald Trump’s hardline immigration tactics, particularly after two U.S. citizens were killed in Minneapolis. Heading into a midterm election year in which they are just a few seats shy of reclaiming the U.S. House majority, Democrats have also kept the White House on defense with criticism of Trump’s economic policies and ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender.

But the U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran could test the durability of that cohesion. Initially, Democrats balanced condemnation of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed over the weekend, with calls for Congress to quickly pass a war powers resolution that would restrain Trump’s attack options.

“As soon as our resolution comes to the floor, senators need to pick a side,” Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said on Monday. “Stand with Americans who don’t want war, or stand with Donald Trump as he singlehandedly starts another war.”

Democratic divisions going into war powers vote

But some divisions are surfacing as a handful of Democrats, especially those who are strongly aligned with Israel, express reservations about the war powers measure. Rep. Greg Landsman, D-Ohio, won’t back an Iran resolution. Before the strike, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., also said he would vote no.

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., who backed a war powers vote tied to Venezuela in January, also has broken with Democrats over the Iranian measure and rejected arguments that the attack was illegal, spurring frustration among some party leaders.

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., arrives before President Donald Trump delivers the State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress in the House chamber at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

“John Fetterman knows better,” House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries said Monday on CNN.

Republicans are also facing internal dissent. Trump, who did little to prepare Americans for the prospect of such a dramatic conflict, said Monday the operation could last four to five weeks. He hasn’t articulated a clear exit strategy and warns that American casualties could mount, which will pose a severe test of voter patience for the conflict.

The war could also lead to rising gas prices and economic volatility that may bolster Democratic arguments that the president is out of touch with the financial realities facing many Americans.

Still, Republicans see an opportunity to portray Democrats as reflexively opposed to Trump.

“For my Democratic colleagues, this is not about what’s best for our national security or what’s best for protecting the American people,” said Sen. John Kennedy, R-La. “This is about how to defeat Donald Trump.”

A searing debate among Democrats over Israel

Democrats have undergone a searing internal debate over the party’s relationship with Israel in the wake of the war in Gaza. Then-President Joe Biden’s loyalty to Israel during the heat of the 2024 campaign was starkly at odds with younger generations outraged by the treatment of Palestinians in Gaza. By the time Kamala Harris rose to the top of the ticket that year, she struggled to win over some younger voters who are critical to Democratic success.

Paco Fabian, the political director for the progressive advocacy group Our Revolution, acknowledged that Democrats “aren’t monolithic.” But he also suggested a shift was underway, noting the results of a New Jersey special election last month.

During that campaign, the affiliated super PAC of the pro-Israel American Israel Public Affairs committee sought to thwart the moderate candidate, Tom Malinowski, after he questioned unconditional aid to the Israeli government. Those efforts appeared to backfire with the more progressive contender, Analilia Mejia, winning the primary.

“Given what’s going on right now, I don’t think the moment is doing AIPAC and Israel any favors,” Fabian said.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., arrives at a secure facility in the basement of the Capitol for an intelligence briefing with Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the Iran war in Washington, Monday, March 2, 2026. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Sympathy toward Israel appears to be shifting. Three years ago, 54% of Americans sympathized more with the Israelis, compared with 31% for the Palestinians, according to Gallup polling released last month. Now, their support is about evenly balanced, with 41% saying their sympathies lie more with the Palestinians, and only 36% saying the same about the Israelis.

Americans’ initial reactions to airstrikes also appeared more negative than positive, early polling suggested. About 6 in 10 U.S. adults disapproved of the U.S. decision to take military action in Iran, according to a CNN poll conducted via text message over the weekend. A separate snap poll from The Washington Post conducted via text message on Sunday suggested that about half of those polled opposed the strikes, while 39% were in support. Roughly 1 in 10 were unsure.

Democrats and independents drove much of the disapproval in those early polls, while Republicans were much more supportive.

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Elections this week could show impact of attacks

The initial political impact of the attacks in Iran could emerge as soon as Tuesday during the first primary elections of this year’s midterm campaign.

In North Carolina, Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam was already going into her bid to unseat two-term Rep. Valerie Foushee with backing from Our Revolution and other top progressives. After receiving support from groups tied to AIPAC during her 2022 campaign, Foushee’s campaign rejected such contributions this cycle. Over the weekend, she said she doesn’t support “Trump’s illegal war with Iran” and would back the war powers resolution.

Still, Allam, who would be the first Muslim elected to Congress from North Carolina, was quick to release a video ahead of Tuesday’s vote criticizing Trump for “starting another endless war” and promising to never accept support from “the pro-Israel lobby.”

In Texas, home to high-profile Senate primaries on Tuesday, Democratic voters expressed alarm at the attacks.

“It shouldn’t have happened,” said Charles Padmore, 45, an independent contractor in Houston. “Affordability should be the top priority on Trump’s list.”

Alex Diaz, 31, a biology high school teacher in Houston, called the bombing of Iran “uncalled for.”

“You’re trying to start World War III, and we don’t need that right now,” he said.

The fallout could spread to other contests this month. Ahead of the March 17 primary in Illinois, AIPAC-aligned groups have also criticized Daniel Biss, the Evanston mayor who is aiming to become the Democratic candidate to succeed the retiring Rep. Jan Schakowsky. In an interview, Biss spoke of the “backlash I’m hearing people have against AIPAC, their MAGA-aligned money and their Trump-aligned policy agenda.”

Asked about such predictions, Patrick Dorton, a spokesman for AIPAC’s affiliated super PAC, said “the key distinction will be between those who recognize that Iran is a murderous regime that tortures women for leaving their hair uncovered, hangs gay people, and executes peaceful democratic protestors, and those who will turn a blind eye to the regime’s atrocities.”

Calls for a ‘united opposition party’

As Congress moves toward a potential war powers vote this week, Biss said there was a need for Democrats to act as a “strong, clear, vocal, united opposition party.”

“I also would like to see the Democratic Party united not just on the procedural argument but on the basic acknowledgment that this war is wrong,” he added.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Ct., speaks during a Senate Homeland Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Tom Brenner)

On Capitol Hill, Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, a Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, said he was less concerned about party unity than the prospect of achieving a bipartisan vote on the war powers resolution.

“What I want to see happen is the war powers resolution pass,” he said. “I’m not focused on what Democrats as a whole do. We’re going to have differing opinions among Democrats and among Republicans.”

Associated Press journalists Linley Sanders in Washington and Juan Lozano in Houston contributed to this report.

By WILL WEISSERT

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump says he’ll attend this year’s White House Correspondent Association dinner on April 25, marking the first time he’s done so as commander-in-chief.

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“The White House Correspondents Association has asked me, very nicely, to be the Honoree at this year’s Dinner, a long and storied tradition since it began in 1924, under then President Calvin Coolidge,” Trump posted on his social media site on Monday evening.

He noted that the latest installment comes amid celebrations marking America’s 250th birthday, adding that it “will be my Honor to accept their invitation.”

Trump was invited annually, but never attended the dinner during his first term and also skipped last year’s gathering.

“For more than 100 years, the journalists of the White House Correspondents’ Association have enjoyed an evening with the president,” the association’s president, Weijia Jiang, said in a statement. “We’re happy the president has accepted our invitation and look forward to hosting him.”

The event was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 and 2021, but President Joe Biden attended each of the dinners during his term’s final three years. Every president since Coolidge had attended except Trump — until now. In his post Trump wrote that, “Because the Press was extraordinarily bad to me” he had “boycotted the event, and never went.”

“However, I look forward to being with everyone this year. Hopefully, it will be something very Special.”

The correspondents’ dinner debuted in 1921. Three years later, Coolidge became the first president to attend.

While all presidents but Trump went, not all did every year of their terms. Jimmy Carter and Richard Nixon opted not to, and Ronald Reagan — then recovering from an assassination attempt — missed the 1981 installment, but called in from Camp David.

Trump attended the correspondents dinner before he was president, and was the subject of mocking by then-President Barack Obama in 2011. Obama joked: “Say what you will about Mr. Trump, he certainly would bring some change to the White House. Let’s see what we’ve got up there.”

The screens then flashed to a White House featuring a massive neon sign reading “Trump White House Hotel Casino Golf Course” featuring golden columns and a massive chandelier blocking the front entrance.

Made years before Trump became a politician, that joke has proved prophetic. Trump has leaned on his construction background to make over the White House in unprecedented ways during his second term.

Those remodeling efforts include paving over the lawn near the Rose Garden to install a patio reminiscent of his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida and affixing partisan plaques to portraits of all the presidents on a Walk of Fame along the Colonnade. He’s also adorned the Oval Office in copious amounts of gold decorations and demolished the East Wing to begin work on a massive ballroom.

Arriving back from a weekend at Mar-a-Lago on Sunday, Trump stopped to admire two new additions to the area around the Rose Garden, statues of Thomas Jefferson and Ben Franklin that were erected there while he was away.

“Unbelievable statues. Come and look at them,” Trump told a pack of reporters nearby.

By LINDSAY WHITEHURST

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court cleared the way Monday for California schools to tell parents if their children identify as transgender without getting the student’s approval, granting an emergency appeal from a conservative legal group.

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The order blocks for now a state law that bans automatic parental notification requirements if students change their pronouns or gender expression at school.

It comes after religious parents and educators challenged California school policies aimed at preventing schools from outing students to their families. Two sets of Catholic parents represented by the Thomas More Society say it caused schools to mislead them and secretly facilitate the children’s social transition despite their objections.

California argued that students have the right to privacy about their gender expression, especially if they fear rejection from their families, and school policies are aimed at striking a balance with parents’ rights.

The high court, though, sided with the parents and reinstated a lower-court order blocking the law and school policies while the case continues to play out.

The Supreme Court has ruled for religious plaintiffs in other recent cases, including allowing parents to pull their children from public-school lessons if they object to storybooks with LGBTQ+ characters.

The California order comes months after the court upheld state bans on gender-identity-related healthcare for minors. The justices also seem to be leaning toward allowing states to ban transgender athletes from playing on girls sports teams.

School policies for transgender students, meanwhile, have also been on the court’s radar in other cases.

The court rebuffed another similar case out of Wisconsin in December, but three conservative justices indicated they would have heard the case. Justice Samuel Alito called the school policies “an issue of great and growing national importance.”

The Trump administration, meanwhile, found in January that California’s policies violated parents’ right to access their children’s education records. The Justice Department also sued after determining the states’ transgender athlete policies violate federal civil rights law.

General Daily Insight for March 03, 2026

Gentle waves move us toward needed changes. A Lunar Eclipse, also a Full Moon, in Virgo peaks at 6:37 am EST, nudging us to release habits and refine the systems we rely on. We can sort what stays, let go of what drains, and make promises we intend to keep with care, no matter how small. Later, as the emotional Moon opposes cerebral Mercury, feelings and words pull in different directions, so listening becomes the bridge. When we speak our minds, we can enact positive change.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

Small shifts carry big momentum forward. The Lunar Eclipse, also a Full Moon, highlights your 6th House of Daily Routine. Do your best to get some tidying up done — your future self will thank you. If you’re not at home, you could also streamline tasks at work or while running errands. Give yourself space to focus. Let practicality be your guiding light under this lunation. If a co-worker needs clarity, offer it with patient calm. Everyday effort shapes big results over time.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

This morning invites playful focus and steady joy. Your 5th House of Inspiration is haloed by this Full Moon Lunar Eclipse. Luna is encouraging you to share what you make and enjoy the process. You might dust off a half-finished project and devote an hour to updating it. Even if you don’t finish it, letting your soul run free with something like that is a great way to sate your creative impulses. You could also enjoy getting together with pals for a group crafting session!

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Your home is under cosmic attention, but you’re in charge of how that shakes out. Today’s Full Moon is a Lunar Eclipse, which supports your domestic life through honest conversations and small changes. You may talk through chores with a roommate or reorganize the responsibilities that come with living alone. Don’t jump to conclusions — not about yourself nor anyone else. Take your time thinking through any home-based issues and potential solutions before assigning blame or trying to fix specific symptoms of the problem.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

You’re in charge of what you say and how you say it, but right now, the universe is offering you extra eloquence. All sorts of messages, formal or casual, are more meaningful during the Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in your conversation zone. If you encounter any misunderstandings, prioritize listening and understanding above the speed of your response. Taking a quick break between tasks can help your thoughts settle and allow you to give more informed answers. Don’t forget to ask for additional information when necessary!

Leo

July 23 – August 22

When emotions crest, your values set the tone. Your 2nd House of Logistics is lit up by the Full Moon — which is also a Lunar Eclipse. This is a great phase to redefine your financial priorities. Name your priorities, analyze what has (or hasn’t!) worked thus far, then design your budget accordingly. Be sure to keep long-term monetary goals in mind. For now, you’d be better off giving others your time or effort rather than cash. Open your heart before you open your wallet.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Who’s that, Virgo? It’s you! This Lunar Eclipse (by nature, also a Full Moon) strikes your sign directly, upping your self-awareness by way of showing you a new perspective on yourself. It’s time to release any outdated labels — no matter how long you’ve identified with them, you’re allowed to grow and change. You don’t have to sort yourself into a box unless you really want to. You also don’t have to listen to outsiders who critique your growth without understanding it!

Libra

September 23 – October 22

You’re metaphorically wearing a pair of cosmic-noise-canceling headphones today. That’s thanks to the Full Moon (simultaneously a Lunar Eclipse) occurring in your 12th House of Reflection. Leave yourself plenty of time for naps, and if anyone objects, tell them you’re meditating on dreams. That’s not even a lie, as the 12th house’s spiritual influence is empowering your soul throughout the day, even when you ARE asleep. Meanwhile, if you’re feeling productive, focus on quiet, contemplative tasks. Real rest restores your balance and brightens future choices.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Trust grows when it’s nurtured, and today is a great day to do some nurturing! A Lunar Eclipse/Full Moon energizes your 11th House of Support Networks, which could alter the way people show up for group efforts. When you need something, remember the idiom, “The squeaky wheel gets the grease.” People probably won’t give you things if you don’t ask for them. This works both ways — if someone didn’t direct you to do something, they shouldn’t be upset that you didn’t do it.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

When goals call your name, patience becomes your ally. Today’s Full Moon, also a Lunar Eclipse, elevates your 10th House of Prestige, shining a clear light on your public path. You may update your résumé and get much faster responses to job applications. If you’re happy in your current career, take today to ponder that. What makes this situation work so well, and how can you keep it going? In all areas of life, optimism lights the spark, while discipline keeps the fire burning.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Perspective shifts may reshape your upcoming plans. The universe is urging you to look ahead as this Full Moon (and Lunar Eclipse) activates your 9th House of Exploration, urging you to widen horizons through study that changes how you see choices. You might research a certification and mark the enrollment date on your calendar. Your practical patience turns big ideas into structured, doable steps. If doubts appear, refer back to your long-term goals. You can always change your plans later as necessary.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Trust deep bonds to clarify shared responsibilities. Your 8th House of Intimacy is energized by this Lunar Eclipse, also a Full Moon. This potentially brings an important conversation about how you share money and information. You may review a joint account with someone to strengthen transparency together. Taking an inventive approach can solve a sticky problem, while empathy keeps talks human and fair. Be wary of turbulent emotions — you’re allowed to feel them, but they shouldn’t negatively impact your life plans.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Certain connections may have become misaligned recently. Today’s Full Moon, also a Lunar Eclipse, emphasizes your 7th House of Partnership, inviting clear agreements across your important connections so cooperation feels balanced. Whatever your status, seek fairness that respects both voices and leaves room for change. You may propose a weekly check-in and write down your discussions, then actually put them into action going forward. Compassion can flow freely, while boundaries keep that kindness sustainable. Name needs clearly, and listen with generous curiosity.

By JAMES ELLINGWORTH

Former U.S. Open tennis champion Daniil Medvedev has indicated he’s one of what the ATP Tour calls “a small number of players and team members” it is trying to help leave Dubai as the war in the Middle East causes a widespread travel shutdown that has also caused issues for athletes heading to the Paralympics.

Medvedev’s Instagram account reposted on Monday a report from a Russian-language tennis outlet, Bolshe, which said he was safe and staying at a friend’s apartment in Dubai, amid flight cancellations after winning the ATP event there last week.

“The health, safety and wellbeing of our players, staff and tournament personnel is our priority. We can confirm that a small number of players and team members remain in Dubai following the conclusion of the recent ATP 500 event,” the ATP Tour said in a statement Monday.

“They and their teams are being accommodated in the tournament’s official hotels, where their immediate needs are being fully supported.”

FILE – Daniil Medvedev of Russia plays a forehand return to Learner Tien of the U.S. during their fourth round match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Jan. 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake, file)

Medvedev and others are due to play at the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, California, where main-draw matches start Wednesday.

“We are in direct communication with those affected, as well as with tournament organizers and security advisors,” the ATP said. “At this stage, travel assessments remain subject to ongoing assessment in line with airline operations and official guidance. We will continue to provide appropriate support to ensure players and their teams can depart safely when conditions allow.”

The Winter Paralympics open in Italy on Friday and some athletes are facing travel difficulties, the International Paralympic Committee said.

“We are in close contact with all delegations competing at the Games as well as other stakeholders. Many of the teams are already in Europe attending training or holding camps, but the closure of airspace in the Middle East is impacting the arrival of some stakeholders,” the IPC said in a statement.

The IPC confirmed to The Associated Press that the affected stakeholders include athletes.

“We would prefer not to comment on the status of individual delegations or stakeholders at this stage but can provide assurance that we are working diligently with Milano Cortina 2026 to find solutions for those affected,” the IPC added.

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Iran has one cross-country skier expected to compete at the March 6-15 Paralympics.

Cricketers from England and Pakistan’s men’s developmental teams were in the United Arab Emirates at the weekend ahead of Sunday’s game that was cancelled.

Youth basketball players also faced travel issues when a EuroLeague tournament there was canceled at the weekend.

Numerous sports events in the region have shut down, with Asian Champions League soccer games and the Qatari league on hold. The governing body which oversees Formula 1 said Monday it will focus on “safety and wellbeing” as it considers upcoming races in the region.

AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis

By MARK SHERMAN

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Monday sided with Republicans in ruling that the boundaries of the only GOP-held congressional district in New York City do not not need to be redrawn for the 2026 elections, despite a court ruling that the district is unfair to Black and Hispanic residents.

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The justices halted the state court ruling that had ordered New York’s redistricting commission to redraw the district held by Rep. Nicole Malliotakis that covers Staten Island and a small piece of Brooklyn.

The outcome is a victory for Republicans in a national tug-of-war over redistricting that could determine control of the closely divided House of Representatives. Republicans currently hold a razor-thin majority.

New York Republicans and the Trump administration had sought the high court’s intervention. Qualifying for congressional elections in New York began last week.

A judge had ruled that the district was drawn in a way that dilutes the power of its Black and Hispanic voters and had ordered the state’s Independent Redistricting Commission to complete a new map.

The dispute in New York is part of the redistricting battle that was spurred by President Donald Trump when he urged Republicans in Texas to redraw the state’s congressional districts for political gain. Democrats countered with their own gerrymandering in California. More states soon followed.

The Supreme Court has allowed the new maps in California and Texas to be used in this year’s elections, even as court challenges continue.

By MELISSA GOLDIN

As the U.S. and Israel continued to strike Iran on Monday following a major attack over the weekend that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, misrepresented images related to the war spread widely online.

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They presented years-old footage as current, falsely claimed that U.S. military vehicles had been destroyed and erroneously claimed to show casualties of the war.

Here’s a closer look at the facts.

CLAIM: An image shows Khamenei’s body under a pile of rubble.

THE FACTS: This is false. It was created with AI. Google’s Gemini app detected SynthID, a digital watermarking tool for identifying content that has been generated or altered with AI, in the image. This means it was created or edited, either entirely or in part, by Google’s AI models.

In the image, a body whose face is blurred is trapped beneath rubble while four men wearing hard hats and safety vests shine flashlights onto the area and work on clearing the debris. Small fires burn in the background.

Iranian state media confirmed early Sunday that Khamenei had been killed in Saturday’s attack by the U.S. and Israel. A photo of his body has not been publicly released.

CLAIM: Images show the USS Abraham Lincoln sinking or otherwise damaged after an Iranian ballistic missile strike.

THE FACTS: U.S. Central Command said in an X post that the warship, one of two aircraft carriers the U.S. military has deployed to the region, “was not hit” and that “the missiles didn’t even come close.” The post, which went up after Iranian leadership claimed the ship was struck in the attack, adds that it is continuing to launch aircraft.

Many images said to show the aftermath of a strike on the USS Abraham Lincoln are years-old. For example, an image of a ship sinking into the ocean with a helicopter hovering above has appeared online since at least 2021. A video of a ship engulfed in flames and billowing smoke appeared in a Facebook post from June 2025.

CLAIM: A video shows the downing of a U.S. fighter jet in Iran.

THE FACTS: This is false. It is from a military-themed video game.

The video spreading online shows a missile speeding toward a fighter jet, which performs dramatic evasive maneuvers. There is a loud bang at the end of the video and the aircraft heads toward the ground.

But a YouTube channel dedicated to military video game simulations originally posted the clip in November 2025. A caption on the clip states that “all scenes are captured in-game for entertainment and learning purposes only.” The aircraft is identified as an F-4 Phantom II.

Three U.S. fighter jets, all of them F-15E Strike Eagles, were mistakenly downed in Kuwait — not Iran — by friendly Kuwaiti fire on Monday, according to the U.S. military. Iranian state television claimed that Iran had targeted one of the planes that crashed.

CLAIM: A video shows U.S. soldiers returning home in coffins from the Iran war.

THE FACTS: This is false. It shows the dignified transfer of U.S. Army servicemembers who died in Iraq in Operation New Dawn. The transfer took place on June 8, 2011, at Dover Air Force Base.

The original video was posted to YouTube by a photographer and U.S. Marine Corps veteran who fought in the Vietnam War.

There are a number of indications that the YouTube video matches the clip currently spreading online. For example, about one minute and 57 seconds into the video, a plane taxis in the background. Additionally, the front of a blue vehicle is visible throughout most of the video in the bottom right corner.

Associated Press writer Abril Mulato in Mexico City contributed to this report.

Find AP Fact Checks here: https://apnews.com/APFactCheck.

By PATRICK WHITTLE and KIMBERLEE KRUESI

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Democrats are split over the best way to defeat Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins in Maine, a critical race that will help determine whether the party wins back control of the Senate in this year’s midterm elections.

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Although Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and other establishment figures have lined up behind Maine Gov. Janet Mills, first-time candidate Graham Platner continues to pick up support.

On Monday, the oyster farmer and combat veteran was endorsed by Arizona Sen. Ruben Gallego, considered one of Democrats’ potential candidates in the next presidential race. It was another sign of Platner’s political resiliency after a series of controversies involving old social media posts and a tattoo he covered up because it resembled a Nazi symbol.

“Since I met Graham a couple of months ago, and from talking to my non-political friends and Marine Corps buddies from Maine, I know Graham can draw people into politics right now who have been really unhappy with the two parties and feel forgotten,” Gallego said in a statement. “Those are the people we need to come out in an election year, and I believe Graham is the only candidate who can really do it.”

Gallego also cited the outbreak of war with Iran, saying the Senate “needs to reflect the experiences and expertise of those who have been the boots on the ground.”

The backing follows endorsements from Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, and New Mexico Sen. Martin Heinrich, another Democrat.

Mills’ team said the two-term governor remains better positioned to deliver victory for Democrats in November.

“Governor Mills has broad support from leaders who know what it takes to win tough races because they know she is the leader for this moment, has a record of delivering real progress for Maine people, and is the best candidate to defeat Susan Collins in November,” said Mills spokesman Tommy Garcia in a statement.

Mills also has the backing of numerous other figures in the Democratic Party, including Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Nevada Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, as well as Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey and three of his predecessors.

The dueling endorsements for Platner and Mills are “emblematic of the divisions we’re really seeing nationwide among Democrats,” said Mark Brewer, a professor and chair of the political science department at the University of Maine. He said some factions of the party are willing to take risks on a candidate like Platner in the current unsettled political environment.

“Platner is definitely the insurgent candidate. His supporters are not only willing to support that kind of unconventional candidate, but willing to embrace that kind of unconventional candidate,” he said.

Platner, 41, and Mills, 78, are vying for the chance to unseat Collins, 73, a five-term incumbent who announced last month that she was running for another term. The Democratic Party needs to net four seats to retake the Senate majority, and they are aiming to do that in Maine, North Carolina, Alaska and Ohio.

Platner has gained traction with his anti-establishment image and economic equality message. He’s also faced questions about a skull-and-crossbones tattoo reminiscent of a Nazi symbol.

According to Platner, he got the tattoo on his chest during a night of drinking while he was on leave in Croatia. He has maintained that he was unaware until recently that the image had been associated with Nazis, and he has since covered the tattoo with a different design.

Mills referenced the controversy Friday, posting on social media that “for what it’s worth, I don’t have any tattoos.”

Platner has received renewed scrutiny recently after reposting and then deleting a comment made on social media by Stew Peters, a radio host who has promoted antisemitism, Holocaust denial claims and conspiracy theories.

Peters had posted about the looming conflict with Iran during President Donald Trump’s recent State of the Union address, criticizing that the war could have bipartisan support.

FILE – Sen. Ruben Gallego D-Ariz., speaks during the “People’s State of the Union” rally outside of the U.S. Capitol, Feb. 24, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, file)

Platner shared Peters’ comment and added a similar sentiment by writing, “As always, there’s one thing that brings Republican and Democratic politicians together: sending other people’s children to die in stupid wars in the Middle East.” He later deleted his post.

Separately, Platner has been questioned for being a guest on Nate Cornacchia’s podcast in late January. Cornacchia, a retired Green Beret, has also been accused of sharing antisemitic views.

During the Jan. 27 conversation, Cornacchia and Platner largely focused on labor issues and immigration enforcement activities amid the death of Alex Pretti in Minnesota.

Gallego is among the Democrats named as possible 2028 presidential contenders. Last fall, he stumped in New Jersey, Virginia and Florida, where he campaigned for Democrats who went on to win their elections. Gallego was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2014.

“I have an immense amount of respect for him and I’m looking forward to joining him as a fellow Marine and combat infantryman in the U.S. Senate,” Platner said in a statement.

Kruesi reported from Providence, Rhode Island.

By MEG KINNARD

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Across the country, progressives are lighting a fire that they hope will catapult Democrats back to power in Congress this year. But here in a hotel ballroom, the party’s beleaguered moderates have another message — not so fast.

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Leaders at Third Way’s conference talked over and over about how Democrats can’t swing too far left in the midterms, or when picking their next presidential nominee, if they have any hope of winning back the White House.

The title of the two-day, invite-only conference: “Winning the Middle.” And there was plenty of advice on how to do that.

Be plainspoken, not lofty or academic. Don’t live online, but be authentic on social media. Loosen up, and be patriotic without fear that something like the American flag or Pledge of Allegiance has been co-opted by conservatives.

Matt Bennett, co-founder of Third Way, said the organization of moderate Democrats plans to meet repeatedly as the next presidential campaign approaches, convening people who will be influencing and working for Democratic candidates.

“We’re doing it early, and we’re doing it much, much more aggressively than we did last time,” Bennett said. “We’ve got a team in place that is talking every day to the 2028ers.”

Jim Messina, who managed Barack Obama’s reelection campaign in 2012, said Democrats still need to find their footing with voters.

“In 2026, we’re going to win, because we have one great nominee, and his name is Donald Trump,” he said, meaning Trump’s unpopularity sets the stage for Democratic wins in his view. “But we’re going to lose the presidential election in 2028 if we can’t find an economic message that identifies with most people.”

Asked to give Democrats the “brutal truth,” Messina said, “We have no economic message, and if we don’t get one, we’re not going to win.”

The location of the conference was no accident. South Carolina has been pivotal in Democratic presidential primaries, including boosting Joe Biden to victory in 2020. Although a new calendar from the Democratic National Committee won’t be ready for several months, Bennett said Democrats expect the state to remain influential.

“We need to socialize these ideas immediately, so that they can begin to take hold and be widely shared by the time we get to the main part of their primary cycle,” Bennett said.

There was no shortage of stylistic tips at the conference.

• Former Rep. Joe Walsh, R-Ill., right, speaks about becoming a Democrat as panelist Yemisi Egbewole listnes during Third Way’s “Winning the Middle” conference on Monday, March 2, 2026, in Charleston, S.C. (AP Photo/Meg Kinnard)
• Democratic strategist Jim Messina, right, speaks as Third Way President Jon Cowan listens during Third Way’s “Winning the Middle” conference Monday, March 2, 2026, in Charleston, S.C. (AP Photo/Meg Kinnard)
• Former Rep. Joe Walsh, RIll., right, speaks about becoming a Democrat as moderator Sarah McCammon and panelist Yemisi Egbewole listen during Third Way’s “Winning the Middle” conference Monday, March 2, 2026, in Charleston, S.C. (AP Photo/Meg Kinnard)

Show Caption1 of 3Former Rep. Joe Walsh, R-Ill., right, speaks about becoming a Democrat as panelist Yemisi Egbewole listnes during Third Way’s “Winning the Middle” conference on Monday, March 2, 2026, in Charleston, S.C. (AP Photo/Meg Kinnard) Expand

“Democrats come across as like professors, academics, elites — I mean, my God, rip off your freaking sport coat and talk to me,” said Joe Walsh, who was a tea party Republican when he represented Illinois in the U.S. House but became a Democrat last year. “Voters in general are just crying out for authenticity.”

But to Walsh, that doesn’t mean taking a cue from those like California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has begun visiting early presidential primary states, including South Carolina. In critiquing Trump on social media, Newsom has taken to imitating the president’s tone, trolling Trump in his all-caps style.

“I think the mimicking and the copying a lot of the Trumpism isn’t the way you’re actually going to reach a lot of folks,” Walsh said. “Voters in general are just crying out for authenticity.”

There were recommendations on the issues, too. A smattering of the more than 100 people in the audience raised hands when asked how many had worked the word “affordability” — the buzziest of campaign buzzwords — into messaging materials.

“I think some of you are lying,” joked Gabe Horwitz, who leads Third Way’s economic program, intimating that the actual number was much higher.

Melissa Morales of Somos Votantes, a Latino voter and civic engagement organization, said Democrats should cut the word out of their campaign vocabulary.

“It barely makes sense in English, and it is a nightmare to translate into Spanish, so can we please call it something else?” she asked.

“They’re not asking us for economic theory, they’re asking us for a set of everyday solutions,” Morales added. “And if we want to connect with them, that’s how we’re going to have to do it.”

Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://x.com/MegKinnardAP