Category: News
Americans Report Surging Spirituality: 43% Say Faith Has Grown Amid National Revival
Americans Report Surging Spirituality: 43% Say Faith Has Grown Amid National Revival
Authored by Steve Watson via Modernity.news,
Fresh data shows that 43 percent of U.S. adults have grown more spiritual over their lives, compared to just 11 percent who say they’ve become less so. This shift highlights a broader rejection of the moral vacuum left by ‘progressive’ policies, with Americans of all ages leaning into deeper faith as society grapples with division and decay.
Large majorities cling to core beliefs: 86 percent affirm the existence of a soul, 83 percent believe in God or a universal spirit, 79 percent sense something spiritual beyond the natural world, and 70 percent expect an afterlife.
These numbers, drawn from a Pew Research Center survey, underscore a resilient spiritual foundation that defies the left’s attempts to dismantle traditional values.
You will find more infographics at Statista
“The long-term decline in Christian affiliation in the United States appears to be leveling off, at least for now,” according to the analysis, with Christian identification stabilizing around 63 percent after years of erosion.
The religiously unaffiliated—atheists, agnostics, and “nones”—have plateaued at about 28 percent, halting their expansion.
This stabilization mirrors a massive resurgence in Christianity, with recent data revealing Bible sales skyrocketing by 41.6 percent since 2022, reaching 14.2 million copies in 2023 and 13.7 million in the first ten months of 2024—far outpacing the stagnant overall book market.
Religion and spirituality app downloads exploded by 79.5 percent since 2019, with tools like YouVersion Bible and Hallow drawing users for Scripture, prayer, and meditation. Contemporary Christian music streams on Spotify jumped 50 percent in the same period, boosted by artists like Forrest Frank, Brandon Lake, and Elevation Worship.
This momentum is fueled by young people, especially Gen Z, showing heightened curiosity about Jesus and the Bible per the American Bible Society’s 2024 “State of the Bible” survey. Young men, in particular, are seeking the structure and community faith provides amid uncertainty.
The assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk amplified this trend last year, sparking reports of overflowing churches and mass baptisms.
Religious leaders point to a spiritual awakening, where Americans turn to faith for answers amid political upheaval and social chaos.
This spiritual uptick also echoes President Trump’s vision to restore faith. Speaking at the National Prayer Breakfast last year, Trump declared, “We have to bring religion back.”
He elaborated: “From the earliest days of our republic, faith in God has been the ultimate source of strength that beats in the hearts of our nation.” Urging a stronger return, he added, “We have to bring [religion] back much stronger. It’s one of the biggest problems that we’ve had over the last fairly long period of time. We have to bring it back.”
Trump’s own renewed faith, post-assassination attempt, resonates deeply: “It changed something in me. I feel even stronger. I believed in God, but I feel much more strongly about it.” He credited divine intervention for his survival.
Emphasizing faith’s role in happiness, Trump stated, “I really believe you can’t be happy without religion, without that belief, I really believe that. I just don’t see how you can be.”
Trump’s message aligns with the data: younger adults report decreased religiousness over time (more so than increased), but older ones see growth—yet spirituality overall trends upward across ages.
As excessive woke ideology crumbles, Americans are reclaiming their spiritual heritage, turning to faith, the ultimate safeguard for liberty and moral clarity.
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Tyler Durden
Sun, 01/18/2026 – 21:00
Housing Market’s Deep Freeze May Finally Begin To Thaw
Housing Market’s Deep Freeze May Finally Begin To Thaw
Realtors, mortgage lenders, and other industry professionals: if three years of depressed transaction activity have you thinking about exiting, it may be worth holding that thought for now. A new Goldman note suggests that policy maneuvering by the Trump administration could partially unfreeze the housing market in the upcoming selling season, potentially reviving some activity.
The Trump administration is attempting to unfreeze a housing market paralyzed by elevated mortgage rates and high home prices, which have pushed affordability to generational lows.
Goldman analyst Arun Manohar penned a note on Wednesday asking clients: All hands on deck to fix US housing affordability?
Manohar highlighted several key housing policies under the Trump administration: a recently announced $200 billion MBS purchase program aimed at lowering mortgage rates, a proposed ban on institutional investors buying single-family homes, and additional measures designed to reduce the cost of homeownership.
Here’s the note:
Affordability, particularly in the context of housing, has recently been a central focus for the Trump administration. In a national televised address delivered in December, the President announced forthcoming plans which he described as “the most aggressive housing reform plans in American history.” According to media reports, President Trump is expected to introduce several initiatives aimed at enhancing housing affordability during his upcoming speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos. To date, two policies have been previewed, each of which has already had market moving impacts. In today’s Global Markets Daily, we discuss the impact of recently introduced policies and outline additional measures that may be under consideration.
GSE MBS purchase program has already pushed mortgage rates lower by 15bp
On January 8th, President Trump posted on social media that he has instructed his representatives to buy $200 billion of mortgage bonds. Subsequently, Director Pulte and Secretary Bessent have essentially confirmed that the buying is being carried out by the government sponsored enterprises (GSEs) – Fannie and Freddie. Although very limited details about the program are available so far, the agency MBS market has quickly priced in the program with production coupon spreads tightening around 14-15bp so far. We believe the spread tightening so far is consistent with a program of this magnitude and hence believe that it is fully priced-in. Mortgage rates have also declined in tandem and are now close to the lowest levels since September 2022 (Exhibit 1). This should improve affordability and improve sentiment in the housing market ahead of the key spring homebuying season. We believe that the cumulative decline of around 80bp in mortgage rates since June 2025 could boost existing home sales by at least 5-7% in 2026 vs. 2025. Moreover, it is possible that the administration could push new Fed leadership to provide additional support to housing by reinvesting monthly run-offs from the Fed’s portfolio back into MBS. However, as we noted recently, if the $200 billion purchase program is a one-off, and there are no other MBS purchase programs from the GSEs/Fed/Treasury, then MBS spreads are likely to end the year wider vs. current levels. Agency MBS nominal spreads are already tighter vs. their longer-term average, and OASs are at levels last observed during the Fed’s QE purchase program (Exhibit 2). Therefore, the key risk for the housing market is that the decline in mortgage rates over the past two days reverses by the end of the year.
Proposed ban on institutional investors from purchasing single family homes
The other major housing policy announcement from last week was President Trump’s intention to ban institutional investors from buying single-family homes. While the goal of this policy is to reduce competition from institutions and increase supply/reduce prices for individuals, we believe the national impact will be quite small. In aggregate, industry estimates show that institutional investors own less than 0.5% of total housing stock and around 2-3% of rental housing stock (Exhibit 3). Estimates from Cotality show that institutions owning 100+ units account for about 5% of recent home purchase activity. The rental housing market is largely dominated by smaller investors, who own around 79% of the total rental units. The impact could be slightly larger in some of the sunbelt metros where institutional investors have a greater presence. As prices of existing homes have soared in recent years, large single-family rental (SFR) operators have shifted towards built-to-rent homes, where they have better control over unit economics, rather than buying homes from MLS. These homebuilding operations provide much-needed supply, and we believe will not be included in any potential institutional purchase ban. Built-to-rent home volumes have averaged approximately 15k per quarter over the past year. Finally, Secretary Bessent spoke about the institutional SFR ban during an interview at the Economic Club of Minnesota last week and his comments suggest that the institutional SFR ban would not apply retroactively. While we need to see the actual language when and if Congress approves the legislation, it appears the administration would be comfortable with institutional SFR operators retaining the properties they already own. This removes a major headwind to the housing market.
Related:
Goldman Reveals Housing “Affordability Illusion” When Factoring Other Costs
Whether the Trump administration can solve the U.S. housing affordability crisis, which largely emerged during the Bidenomics era, remains an open question. Lower mortgage rates would clearly provide a tailwind as the selling season typically begins in late February or early March, when buyers reemerge after winter, weather conditions improve, and house-hunting activity accelerates. As for the 50-year mortgage rate idea, that Trump administration proposal appears to have been shelved for now.
Tyler Durden
Sun, 01/18/2026 – 20:25
https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/housing-markets-deep-freeze-may-finally-begin-thaw
Bears fans pledge undying support: The Super Bowl, the end of the world, even Indiana. ‘We’ll follow them there, everywhere’
The devotion of longtime Chicago Bears fans was on full display Sunday afternoon as they steeled their nerves ahead of a decisive playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams and celebrated a surprising winning season outside Soldier Field.
Wearing a furry hat with a fake bear head that rested on top of his own, Ridvan Alka beamed with pride at his cargo van wrapped in the team’s iconic navy blue and orange. Inside, the vehicle is outfitted with a full-size bar and a flat-screen television that pulls down from the ceiling. It can still fit 12 people.
Though the Des Plaines family has been tailgating home games for decades, it was only this season that Alka debuted the custom van — and it felt like “the right year,” he said with a laugh. “We’re going to the Super Bowl!”
When there is no home game, they have road-tripped to every away game, even those out west: “Vegas, San Francisco, Washington, you name it,” said Alka. “We’re there.”
Ridvan Alka, left, laughs as he tailgates outside with friends outside of Soldier Field before the Chicago Bears play the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC divisional playoff game on Jan. 18, 2026. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune)
It’s a sentiment that extends to whatever the future portends for the team’s home base, which has been in limbo since the franchise began planning for a new stadium three years ago. The move has stirred up conflicting feelings among Chicagoans and suburbanites alike. Arlington Heights officials are pushing Illinois lawmakers to help the suburb land an agreement for a new stadium, while Indiana lawmakers introduced a bill to draw the team across the state border.
“We’ll follow them,” Alka said matter-of-factly. He took a beat to join other tailgaters in booing and heckling a pair of Los Angeles Rams fans who walked by. “We’ll follow them there, everywhere. We drove all the way to San Francisco. You think I won’t drive to Indiana?”
More fans on Sunday echoed a similar passion. They’d follow the Bears to the end of the world but preferably to the Super Bowl.
Michael Dibartolomeo has been flying from Dallas to Chicago for every Bears home game over the past two decades. On Sunday, he donned a long, neon orange beard, blue face paint and an orange Mohawk wig — his game day uniform the last 30 years.
All the traveling and dressing up “is worth every penny,” he said.
“I don’t have any other loves like I do the Bears,” Dibartolomeo shrugged.
An elementary school teacher, he has a classroom that is decorated, like him, in team spirit from floor to ceiling. On Friday, before yet another return to Chicago, he taught hundreds of his students to sing “Bear Down.”
He said he believes the team has what it takes to advance to the Super Bowl this year.
“It’s a special year. It could happen,” Dibartolomeo said. “I really do, I believe it with all my heart.”
The Sunday game followed a last-minute resounding win the previous weekend against archrival Green Bay Packers. It was the Bears’ first playoff victory since 2011.
The optimism could be felt among all tailgaters in the stadium parking lots — especially at the self-dubbed Da Real Bears Tailgate Crew, whose pregame celebrations evolved from a small cooler into a barbecue with its own DJ set.
Darrell B., left, and Anitra Smith dance and sing as they tailgate outside of Soldier Field before the Chicago Bears play the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC divisional playoff game on Jan. 18, 2026. (Eileen T. Meslar/Chicago Tribune)
Friends Crystal Fitch and Shun T. Haynes have been the minds behind the crew’s Soldier Field tailgates for over 10 years. And they don’t remember a year quite as thrilling.
“This season has been outstanding,” Haynes said. “I actually got the opportunity to travel to all the away games that we won, like, within the last minute. So it was amazing.”
The friends said they would show up wherever the Bears’ home happens to be in the future, whether in the northwest suburbs or northwest Indiana.
“Unfortunately, I would have to say,” Haynes paused briefly. “Hell yeah. Hell yeah.”
“Now listen, if we had a preference, though, if we’re keeping it real, Chicago better do everything they can to keep the Bears right here,” Fitch added. “This is our advantage. This is where people want to come.”
Against the Rams on Sunday night, Haynes said, the team would have the home advantage of Bear weather — including below-freezing temperatures and lakeside wind gusts. The game kicked off at 18 degrees with steady, light snow. Still, it was nowhere near the coldest game the team has played, which was December 2008 against the Green Bay Packers at 2 degrees — 31 degrees below normal.
“Today, the fans are going to be the 12th man on the field,” he added.
“No question,” Fitch pitched in.
“And the weather is the 13th,” Haynes said. “So we have the upper hand.”
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/01/18/bears-fans-super-bowl-playoffs-rams/
New England Patriots advance to AFC title game 28-16 over Houston Texans in turnover-filled game
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Drake Maye threw three touchdown passes, Marcus Jones returned one of C.J. Stroud’s four interceptions for a score and the New England Patriots defeated the Houston Texans 28-16 on Sunday to advance to the AFC championship game for the first time in seven years.
In Mike Vrabel’s first season as coach, the Patriots will take on the Broncos next Sunday in Denver, with the winner advancing to the Super Bowl.
The Patriots will make their 16th conference championship game appearance and first since their run to their sixth Super Bowl title under Bill Belichick in the 2018 season. New England has won its last nine divisional-round games.
Maye finished 16 of 27 for 179 yards but had an interception and fumbled four times, losing two in cold conditions with snow and rain falling throughout the game. One of Maye’s fumbles set up Houston’s first touchdown.
“Just proud of the guys,” Maye said. “Battled the elements. This is New England. This is what we’re trying to embrace and we want to embrace all season long. Props to our defense, played a hell of a game. We’ve got to protect the football better, but we made enough plays to win it.”
Carlton Davis III had two interceptions for New England. Craig Woodson added an interception and a fumble recovery.
“They bring it every week,” Maye said of the Patriots defense. “It’s fun to watch. And we could help them out some more, but just proud of the guys. Enjoy this one and we’re back on the road.”
The eight combined turnovers — Woody Marks also lost a fumble for Houston — were the most in a playoff game since 2015, when the Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers combined for eight in the NFC championship game.
The Texans have lost in the divisional round in three straight seasons under coach DeMeco Ryans. The franchise is now 0-7 all time in that round.
Stroud finished 20 of 47 with a touchdown pass. All of his interceptions came in the first half as he became the first player with five or more interceptions and five or more fumbles in a single postseason. Will Anderson forced two fumbles for the Texans.
Leading 21-16 in the fourth quarter, the Patriots stretched their lead when Kayshon Boutte got behind Derek Stingley Jr. and pulled in a diving, one-hand catch in the corner of the end zone for a touchdown.
The Texans had the ball with 5:48 to play but punted on fourth-and-18 at their 21 with 4:18 remaining.
New England’s next drive took the clock under two minutes. The Texans turned it over on downs when Stroud’s fourth-down pass to Xavier Hutchinson was batted down by Robert Spillane.
Early action
With the Patriots leading 7-3 early, a series of miscues produced the next two scores.
Maye was strip-sacked by Danielle Hunter deep in Patriots territory, but left tackle Will Campbell fell on the ball and the Patriots punted.
The Texans gave it right back when Stroud’s deep pass along the sideline was intercepted by Davis.
Maye fumbled again when he attempted to run on a busted play and had the ball stripped by Tommy Togiai and recovered by Azeez Al-Shaair. Six plays later, Stroud linked up with Christian Kirk on a 10-yard touchdown pass.
But on Houston’s next drive, Stroud was rushed up the middle by K’Lavon Chaisson and lofted a pass that Jones intercepted and returned for a score to put New England back in front.
Later in the quarter, the Patriots lead increased to 21-10 when they capped a five-play, 56-yard drive with a 7-yard TD pass from Maye to Stefon Diggs.
Mr. Pick-6
Jones scored on an interception return for the second time this season. It was the first of his career in the playoffs and first for New England in the postseason since Asante Samuel had one versus the Indianapolis Colts on Jan. 21, 2007, in the AFC championship game.
Injuries
Texans: TE Dalton Schultz (calf) left in the first quarter and didn’t return. … LG Tytus Howard limped off and RB Woody Marks exited with a shoulder injury in the second quarter. … TE Cade Stover left in the fourth with a knee injury and didn’t return.
Patriots: LB Robert Spillane left in the first quarter with a thumb injury but returned. … RB TreVeyon Henderson was shaken up after a second-quarter run before jogging off. … S Craig Woodson exited after his interception with a head injury but returned. … RB Rhamondre Stevenson left in the second quarter with an eye issue. … Davis left in the fourth quarter with a head injury.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/01/18/new-england-patriots-houston-texans-afc-playoffs/
Sending soldiers to Minneapolis for immigration crackdown would be unconstitutional, mayor says
MINNEAPOLIS — The mayor of Minneapolis said Sunday that sending active duty soldiers into Minnesota to help with an immigration crackdown is a ridiculous and unconstitutional idea as he urged protesters to remain peaceful so the president won’t see a need to send in the U.S. military.
Daily protests have been ongoing throughout January since the Department of Homeland Security ramped up immigration enforcement in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul by bringing in more than 2,000 federal officers.
Three hotels where protesters have said Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers were staying in the area stopped taking reservations Sunday.
In a diverse neighborhood where immigration officers have been seen frequently, U.S. postal workers marched through on Sunday, chanting: “Protect our routes. Get ICE out.”
Soldiers specialized in arctic duty told to be ready
The Pentagon has ordered about 1,500 active-duty soldiers based in Alaska who specialize in operating in arctic conditions to be ready in case of a possible deployment to Minnesota, two defense officials said Sunday.
The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military plans, said two infantry battalions of the Army’s 11th Airborne Division have been given prepare-to-deploy orders.
One defense official said the troops are standing by to deploy to Minnesota should President Donald Trump invoke the Insurrection Act.
The rarely used 19th century law would allow the president to send military troops into Minnesota, where protesters have been confronting federal immigration agents for weeks. He has since backed off the threat, at least for now.
“It’s ridiculous, but we will not be intimidated by the actions of this federal government,” Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey told CNN’s State of the Union on Sunday. “It is not fair, it’s not just, and it’s completely unconstitutional.”
Thousands of Minneapolis citizens are exercising their First Amendment rights and the protests have been peaceful, Frey said.
“We are not going to take the bait. We will not counter Donald Trump’s chaos with our own brand of chaos here,” Frey said.
Gov. Tim Walz has mobilized the Minnesota National Guard, although no units have been deployed to the streets.
Some hotels close or stop accepting reservations amid protests
At least three hotels in Minneapolis-St. Paul that protesters said housed officers in the immigrant crackdown were not accepting reservations Sunday. Rooms could not be booked online before early February at the Hilton DoubleTree and IHG InterContinental hotels in downtown St. Paul and at the Hilton Canopy hotel in Minneapolis.
Over the phone, an InterContinental hotel front desk employee said it was closing for the safety of the staff, but declined to comment on the specific concerns. The DoubleTree and InterContinental hotels had empty lobbies with signs out front saying they were “temporarily closed for business until further notice.” The Canopy hotel was open, but not accepting reservations.
The Canopy has been the site of noisy protests by anti-ICE demonstrators aimed to prevent agents from sleeping.
“The owner of the independently owned and operated InterContinental St. Paul has decided to temporarily close their hotels to prioritize the safety of guests and team members given ongoing safety concerns in the area,” IHG Hotels & Resorts spokesperson Taylor Solomon said in a statement Sunday. “All guests with existing reservations can contact the hotel team for assistance with alternative accommodations.”
Earlier this month, Hilton and the local operator of the Hampton Inn Lakeville hotel near Minneapolis apologized after the property wouldn’t allow federal immigration agents to stay there. Hampton Inn locations are under the Hilton brand, but the Lakeville hotel is independently operated by Everpeak Hospitality. Everpeak said the cancelation was inconsistent with their policy.
US postal workers march and protest
Peter Noble joined dozens of other U.S. Post Office workers Sunday on their only day off from their mail routes to march against the immigration crackdown. They passed by the place where an immigration officer shot and killed Renee Good, a U.S. citizen and mother of three, during a Jan. 7 confrontation.
“I’ve seen them driving recklessly around the streets while I am on my route, putting lives in danger,” Noble said.
Letter carrier Susan Becker said she came out to march on the coldest day since the crackdown started because it’s important to keep telling the federal government she thinks what it is doing is wrong. She said people on her route have reported ICE breaking into apartment buildings and tackling people in the parking lot of shopping centers.
“These people are by and large citizens and immigrants. But they’re citizens, and they deserve to be here; they’ve earned their place and they are good people,” Becker said.
Republican congressman asks governor to tone down comments
A Republican U.S. House member called for Walz to tone down his comments about fighting the federal government and instead start to help law enforcement.
Many of the officers in Minnesota are neighbors just doing the jobs they were sent to do, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer told WCCO-AM in Minneapolis.
“These are not mean spirited people. But right now, they feel like they’re under attack. They don’t know where the next attack is going to come from and who it is. So people need to keep in mind this starts at the top,” Emmer said.
Across social media, videos have been posted of federal officers spraying protesters with pepper spray, knocking down doors and forcibly taking people into custody. On Friday, a federal judge ruled that immigration officers can’t detain or tear gas peaceful protesters who aren’t obstructing authorities, including when they’re observing the officers during the Minnesota crackdown.
Contributing were Associated Press writers Konstantin Toropin in Washington; Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis; Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations; Jeffrey Collins in Columbia, South Carolina; and Christopher Weber in Los Angeles.
Senegal estalla de alegría tras dramática victoria en la Copa Africana de Naciones
Por BABACAR DIONE y MARK BANCHEREAU
DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — Senegal estalló de alegría la noche del domingo después de que el equipo de fútbol del país de África Occidental derrotara a Marruecos 1-0 para ganar la Copa Africana de Naciones.
En toda la capital, Dakar, los fuegos artificiales iluminaron el cielo, las bocinas resonaron y personas de todas las edades cantaron y bailaron en las calles, vestidas con los colores nacionales y sosteniendo banderas senegalesas.
“Nuestro equipo ha demostrado que es el mejor de África. Es una victoria bien merecida. Los Leones lucharon como verdaderos leones”, dijo Pape Ndiaye, un joven que ondeaba la bandera senegalesa en el barrio de Parcelles Assainies, un suburbio de clase trabajadora de Dakar, refiriéndose al apodo del equipo nacional, los Leones de la Teranga.
Pocos minutos antes, Senegal había derrotado a Marruecos en el partido de campeonato de la Copa Africana de Naciones de manera dramática. La final acalorada se jugó en Rabat, la capital de Marruecos.
Pape Gueye anotó en tiempo extra para que los Leones de la Teranga vencieran al anfitrión Marruecos 1-0 en un juego caótico que en un momento vio a los aficionados intentar invadir el campo y a los jugadores de Senegal abandonar el campo en protesta por una decisión de penalti en el tiempo de descuento de la segunda mitad.
“El equipo senegalés mostró su fortaleza y por qué es el mejor equipo de África. El equipo mostró madurez en un partido difícil. El árbitro jugó con nuestras emociones. Estábamos estresados y agotados, pero Senegal perseveró”, dijo Mamadou Alpha Diallo, un estudiante de educación de 26 años.
Es la segunda victoria de Senegal en la Copa Africana. Los Leones de la Teranga ganaron la edición de 2021 tras una tanda de penaltis contra Egipto.
El presidente Bassirou Diomaye Faye de Senegal elogió al equipo de fútbol en la televisión pública.
“La alegría es indescriptible. Experimentamos toda una gama de emociones. Vimos hombres en el campo. Patriotas luchando por nuestro honor. Esta es una victoria para los leones, en primer lugar, para el cuerpo técnico y para todo el pueblo senegalés”, manifestó.
Faye prometió recompensas económicas para el equipo nacional y anunció que el lunes sería un día festivo para permitir que todos los senegaleses celebren.
Mientras hablaba, cientos de jóvenes se reunían en los terrenos de la universidad Cheikh Anta Diop en Dakar, ansiosos por aprovechar el ambiente festivo.
“No voy a dormir esta noche, y vamos a celebrar hasta las primeras horas. Ningún senegalés dormirá esta noche. Con la Copa del Mundo acercándose, el mundo necesita saber que Senegal ya no es un equipo pequeño; es un equipo al que temer”, dijo Sidy Sylla, un estudiante de doctorado.
Venezolanos en Colombia se manifiestan por la liberación de presos en Venezuela
Por SAMUEL SOTOMAYOR
BOGOTÁ (AP) — Venezolanos residentes en Colombia se congregaron el domingo en la principal plaza pública de Bogotá para pedir la liberación de los presos políticos en Venezuela, un proceso iniciado tras el operativo militar estadounidense en el que fueron capturados el expresidente Nicolás Maduro y su esposa.
Colombia es uno de los mayores receptores de la diáspora venezolana en la región, al acoger a 2,8 millones de migrantes de ese país, según cifras oficiales, de los más de ocho millones que han salido de Venezuela en más de una década.
En pancartas expuestas por los asistentes a la plaza de Bolívar, en el centro de la capital colombiana, podía leerse: “Familiares unidos por un solo dolor” y “libertad inmediata para los presos políticos”. También fueron expuestas las fotografías de cientos de encarcelados en Venezuela.
En julio de 2024, luego de que el Consejo Nacional Electoral de mayoría oficialista declaró a Maduro ganador de los comicios presidenciales, sectores de oposición alegaron un fraude, lo que derivó en protestas callejeras, represión, arrestos y denuncias de violaciones a los derechos humanos. Al menos 2.000 personas fueron detenidas entonces, según cifras oficiales.
Las autoridades venezolanas niegan que existan presos políticos en el país, y acusan a los detenidos de conspirar para desestabilizar al gobierno.
Maritza Sira, hermana de un preso venezolano, expresó a The Associated Press su anhelo de que “lo liberen pronto, que lo liberen lo antes posible”, pues lleva un año recluido y “prácticamente se está enfermando; no le están brindando atención médica”.
Después de la intervención militar estadounidense del 3 de enero en Caracas, el gobierno de la presidenta encargada Delcy Rodríguez ofreció la liberación de venezolanos y extranjeros encarcelados como una señal para consolidar la paz. Sin embargo, el proceso enfrenta críticas de familiares y organizaciones civiles por falta de celeridad e información de las excarcelaciones.
Según la organización civil Foro Penal, que monitorea la situación de los presos en Venezuela, hasta el sábado por la tarde 139 personas habían sido excarceladas, de las más de 800 que siguen detenidas. Las liberaciones seguían a cuentagotas el domingo, entre ellas las de cuatro extranjeros, informó el foro en su cuenta en la red social X.
Geraldine Enciso, esposa de Daner Barajas —un colombiano detenido en Venezuela—, dijo a la AP que su cónyuge “no tiene antecedentes penales ni en Colombia ni en Venezuela”, pero le han comentado que a los extranjeros los acusan “de ser terroristas y de espionaje”.
En contraste con el reclamo de los familiares que exigen la pronta liberación de sus allegados, el gobierno ha negado que el proceso se esté dilatando, y la presidenta Rodríguez ofreció que las excarcelaciones continuarán.
En tanto, familiares y dirigentes estudiantiles reclamaron el domingo por la presencia de la policía frente a una prisión en Caracas, donde realizaron una vigilia para exigir la liberación de sus seres queridos.
’60 Minutes’ airing report on Donald Trump deportations that was suddenly pulled a month ago
“60 Minutes” on Sunday plans to air a story about Trump administration deportations that was abruptly pulled from the newsmagazine’s lineup a month ago, sparking an internal battle about political pressure that spilled out into the open.
In the story, correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi spoke to deportees who had been sent to El Salvador’s notoriously harsh CECOT prison. When the segment critical of the administration was struck from the Dec. 21 episode on order of new CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, Alfonsi told her “60 Minutes” colleagues that it “was not an editorial decision, it was a political one.”
Weiss argued that the story did not sufficiently reflect the administration’s viewpoint or advance reporting that had been done by other news organizations earlier.
The story was updated to include Trump administration statements, although it has no new on-camera interviews. Alfonsi was also set to give more details about the two migrants that she interviewed about their experiences in the prison, according to someone familiar with the broadcast who spoke under condition of anonymity because the person was not allowed to give details in advance.
“CBS News leadership has always been committed to airing the ”60 Minutes” CECOT piece as soon as it was ready,” the news division said in a statement. “Tonight, viewers get to see it, along with other important stories, all of which speak to CBS News’ independence and the power of our storytelling.”
The decision became a flashpoint for critics who said the appointment of Weiss, founder of the Free Press website who had no previous experience in television news, represented an attempt by the network’s new corporate leadership to curry favor with Trump.
Alfonsi said in her email that administration officials had declined to make anyone available for an on-camera interview, calling that a tactical maneuver designed to kill the story.
While pulled from the broadcast in December, Alfonsi’s original story mistakenly became available online. CBS News had fed a version of the newsmagazine to Global Television, a network that airs “60 Minutes” in Canada, which posted it on its website before the last-minute switch removing the piece.
That enabled sharp-eyed viewers to see what Weiss had rejected, offering the opportunity to compare it to what “60 Minutes” eventually put on the air.
In the version shown in Canada, Alfonsi said the administration declined requests for interviews and referred questions about the prison’s operation to the government of El Salvador, which did not respond to “60 Minutes.” The story included a brief clip of President Donald Trump saying the prison operators “don’t play games,” and one from White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt saying that “heinous monsters, rapists, murderers, sexual assaulters, predators who have no right to be in this country” were sent there.
Since Weiss’ appointment, Trump administration officials have been more visible on CBS News, in interviews that she sometimes helped arrange. The president himself was interviewed by Norah O’Donnell on “60 Minutes” on Nov. 2.
The New York Times reported Saturday that after Trump was interviewed last week by new “CBS Evening News” anchor Tony Dokoupil, Leavitt told the network that “we’ll sue your ass off” if the exchange wasn’t aired in full.
All of the 13-minute interview was shown Tuesday, an unusual step for one of the broadcast networks’ evening newscasts, a half hour summary of the day’s big stories. CBS told The Times that it had decided to run the interview unedited at the time it was booked.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/01/18/60-minutes-report-trump-deportations/
Daily Horoscope for January 19, 2026
General Daily Insight for January 19, 2026
Fresh air moves through our connections tonight. Early on, Mercury trines Uranus, which helps us test smaller changes or unique solutions. The headlining act for the day is the Sun swanning into Aquarius at 8:44 PM EST, turning our attention toward building teamwork and preparing for the future. We’re a social species, and we know it! Plus, once caring Venus conjoins transformative Pluto, we’ll be better equipped to discuss those ideal futures. We can begin building our dreams as a team.
Aries
March 21 – April 19
Leap first, look later! Sometimes that attitude can get you in trouble, but with the Sun stepping into your 11th House of Hope, optimism can carry you far. Support from Mercury and Uranus could inspire you to pitch a unique solution to a complicated problem. When you plan ahead and stay willing to adapt along the way, you can do amazing things. While you’re moving quickly, though, try not to bowl over anyone who can’t keep up! Keep moving forward in your fast lane.
Taurus
April 20 – May 20
Recognition grows when you keep promises. Your 10th House of Honor opens its doors to receive the impactful Sun, kicking off a phase where you’ll potentially have to take a leadership position or manage a family duty. Someone in charge may demand details, but as long as you stay calm, you should be able to set more realistic expectations and deliver polished results without strain. Don’t hesitate to take breaks as needed to maintain your energy and keep making consistent progress.
Gemini
May 21 – June 20
Analyzing the big picture will be essential. With the enthusiastic Sun loping into your 9th House of Mental Expansion, curiosity is about to become your best guide. You might sign up for a class, yet the deeper win could come from more casual explorations of thoughtful ideas. Make a point of looking at things from fresh angles. Share a story with a trusted peer, allowing your minds to wander together in a way that strengthens your bond. Let questions lead you down satisfying paths.
Cancer
June 21 – July 22
One conversation could change everything. Witty Mercury and unconventional Uranus initially empower your efforts to speak with those you care about on lighter topics. Then, the Sun entering your intense 8th house gifts you the strength to bring up something deeper — whether it’s an issue you have with this person or something you want their input on. Do your best to read the room before bringing up controversial subjects, especially if you’re talking in public. You can tell the truth without being unkind.
Leo
July 23 – August 22
Leo, share your spotlight with care. Your 7th House of Connections opens as the life-giving Sun begins a fresh cycle there, asking you to balance bold expression with generous listening. A heartfelt conversation invites you to state needs clearly and honor theirs with matching warmth. You shine brightest when you make room for someone else to shine, because shared recognition strengthens bonds and smooths small power struggles right now. Choose generosity, stay curious, and let kindness lead, since partnerships truly flourish with steady warmth.
Virgo
August 23 – September 22
Quiet focus can unlock amazingly efficient rhythms. Your 6th House of Health gets a cosmic refresh as the Sun settles in, steering you toward habits that make many other tasks less tough to handle. You may reorganize some clutter, adjust your wake-up routine, or tailor your daily look to be more functional. Others may attempt to impose upon your time, but you’re allowed to refuse their demands. There’s no need to feel guilty about setting up your life in the way that works for you.
Libra
September 23 – October 22
Intense feelings won’t capsize your boat today — though they may rock it. With Venus, Pluto, and the Sun all active in your charming 5th house, expressing yourself will be key to handling powerful emotions. Create something heartfelt! You could also work on an ongoing passion project. Your end goal should reflect your real taste, no matter what others think of it. That said, it might be fun to invite nonjudgmental pals to work alongside you on their own undertakings. Invite playful closeness without pressure.
Scorpio
October 23 – November 21
Home feels safer as plans align. The sparkling Sun turns on the lights in your 4th House of Nesting, inviting you to fortify your base with practical moves. If you’ve got the time, look for a room that could use a little rearranging. Too busy for much? Try something small, like putting on a clean pillowcase or setting out your breakfast prep before bed. Even minor efforts can increase comfort and reduce friction in the home. Stabilize your private world before tackling public goals.
Sagittarius
November 22 – December 21
Morning news carries curious sparks forward. The majestic Sun parades into your 3rd House of Messages, inspiring friendly outreach that connects you with people who can brighten your day. A compliment from a stranger can drastically lift your mood — and, in turn, you can bring joy to others by complimenting them. People should appreciate others noticing things they’ve actively chosen, so praising someone’s vibrant accessories will probably have more meaning than praising their eye color. Radiate the kind of energy you want to receive!
Capricorn
December 22 – January 19
Capricorn, step forward with fresh confidence. The Sun is trotting into your 2nd House of Manifestation — this is your phase to prepare for next month, when the Sun will enter your sign. Make plans to tackle your goals, keeping a careful eye on anything that needs preparation in advance. For example, if a major purchase is nearing, start saving extra ASAP. You’re the agent of change in your life, and the Sun is just here to deliver the energy to incite those changes.
Aquarius
January 20 – February 18
New light warms your personal sky. The Sun is marching into your sign, beginning Aquarius Season with the unique verve your sign is known for. This boosts your introductions, allowing you to step into rooms with fresh purpose. Set bold intentions, then follow through with vigor. When others see your sincerity, you attract supportive allies. You can ask for what you need without apology, then return the favor to others in need. Your example uplifts everyone right now, so take the wheel!
Pisces
February 19 – March 20
Something is tugging at your conscience today. Tender closure beckons as the Sun leaves your sign, instead empowering your intimate 12th house. This invites compassion for stories that tug at your heart. A private ritual, such as journaling, should help you release pressure. You can breathe easier as forgiveness grows and clarity returns in waves. Because your empathy runs strong, you may want to avoid people who drain you. Rest without guilt so your dreams are better able to restore your energy. Give yourself space.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/01/18/daily-horoscope-for-january-19-2026/
Jarrett Stidham enfrenta desafío como quarterback de Broncos en final de la AFC
Por ARNIE STAPLETON
DENVER (AP) — El entrenador de los Broncos de Denver, Sean Payton, está convencido de que el quarterback suplente Jarrett Stidham puede duplicar el total de victorias en su carrera cuando reemplace a Bo Nix como titular en el juego de campeonato de la Conferencia Americana la próxima semana.
Aunque Stidham recibió una escasez de repeticiones de práctica durante la temporada, sí tuvo más trabajo durante la semana de descanso de los playoffs después de que los Broncos (15-3) obtuvieron el primer puesto de la AFC.
Perder a un quarterback titular por lesión, como los Broncos perdieron a Nix por una fractura de tobillo mientras los llevaba a una victoria en tiempo extra 33-30 contra Josh Allen y los Bills de Buffalo el sábado, puede devastar a un equipo y truncar las esperanzas de título.
Payton señala muchos ejemplos de equipos que superaron adversidades similares.
“Entiendo de dónde viene la noción de que perder a un quarterback titular es una sentencia de muerte, pero históricamente hablando, no todo esta perdido”, dijo Payton.
Stidham será el séptimo quarterback desde que se comenzaron a registrar los inicios en 1950 en tener su primera titularidad en una temporada en los playoffs, según Sportradar. Frank Reich de los Bills es el único que logró una victoria.
Stidham comenzó dos juegos para los Raiders en 2022 y dos para Denver en 2023, cuando reemplazó a un Russell Wilson en la banca y venció a los Chargers antes de perder contra Las Vegas. Pero no ha lanzado un pase en un juego desde entonces.
El libro de jugadas ciertamente cambiará para Stidham, quien solo tuvo una jugada esta temporada, poner la rodilla en tierra contra Dallas en la semana 8.
“El plan siempre tiene que estar construido alrededor del tipo y las habilidades de los jugadores con los que estás jugando”, dijo Payton. “Y entonces, ¿hay ciertas cosas que Bo hace de manera diferente a Stiddy? Absolutamente. Y ahí es donde comienza el trabajo esta noche”.
Stidham es en gran medida una incógnita después de aparecer en solo 20 juegos en seis temporadas de la NFL, pero Payton ha promocionado durante mucho tiempo a su quarterback suplente como alguien que podría fácilmente ser titular para muchos equipos.
Nix se someterá a cirugía el martes en Birmingham, Alabama, pero Payton se mostró evasivo cuando se le preguntó si tenía una idea del tiempo de recuperación o si Nix estaría de regreso para el campamento de entrenamiento el próximo verano.
Parte de lo que hizo tan impactante el anuncio de la lesión de Nix después del juego fue que el jugador no dejó el campo e incluso habló con CBS en una entrevista posterior al juego en la que parecía ansioso por jugar en el campeonato de conferencia.
Payton realizó su conferencia de prensa posterior al juego y cuando regresó a su oficina, el gerente general George Paton y Beau Lowery, el vicepresidente de salud y rendimiento de jugadores del equipo, le mostraron la radiografía.
Payton fue directamente a buscar a Nix y regresó a conferenciaa una hora después del juego para dar la noticia de la lesión de Nix porque no quería que sus jugadores lo escucharan de un medio de noticias con la gran primicia antes de que tuvieran su reunión de equipo el lunes por la mañana.
“Me hubiera gustado hablar con el equipo primero, pero la mitad del vestuario ya se había ido”, dijo Payton.
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Deportes en español AP: https://apnews.com/hub/deportes
