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Suspicious package sickens several at Joint Base Andrews, home to Air Force One
A Joint Base Andrews spokesperson says several people are ill after a suspicious package was opened at Joint Base Andrews at approximately 1 p.m. Thursday.
Base medical personnel responded immediately and treated multiple individuals who reported feeling sick, officials said. All patients were listed in stable condition and later released.
"As a precaution, the building and connecting building were evacuated, and a cordon was established around the area," the spokesperson said in a statement to Fox News. "Joint Base Andrews first responders were dispatched to the scene, determined there were no immediate threats, and normal operations have resumed. An investigation is currently ongoing."
US NAVAL ACADEMY IN ANNAPOLIS ON LOCKDOWN AS ACTIVE THREAT REPORTED
Authorities have not disclosed what the package contained or what may have caused the symptoms. The base was temporarily locked down while emergency crews assessed the situation.
The base was temporarily locked down so that the installation and emergency personnel could assess the situation.
SHOOTING AT GEORGIA'S FORT STEWART INJURES 5 SOLDIERS; SUSPECT IN CUSTODY
Several of the individuals were taken to Malcolm Grow Medical Center on the base for evaluation.
Joint Base Andrews is home to Air Force One and other aircraft that support the president, vice president and senior U.S. leaders.
Officials said the investigation remains active as they work to determine the source and nature of the package.
Lawmakers budge, ushering in government shutdown's potential 'end of the beginning'
"Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning." – Winston Churchill
It’s not an agreement. Just a plan.
But the political ice which has frozen lawmakers and closed the government for 37 days is softening.
Just barely.
THE HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE TO WHERE WE STAND WITH A POTENTIAL BREAK IN THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN
"There seems to be some indication of a thaw," said Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn.
Let’s face it:
Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers are skittish about the shutdown. They’re agonizing about aviation. There’s increasing worry among bipartisan lawmakers about federal workers not getting paid and the cessation of emergency food benefits known as SNAP. Everyone wants a deal. However, no one knows where to find one.
Any agreement will be about the math. But lawmakers are locked in this shutdown box and can’t find the combination to escape.
That’s why it’s significant there are at least attempts to turn the wheels of Congress to open the government. But that may take a while.
That’s why it’s notable that, for the first time since October 1, lawmakers are even attempting to turn the gears of government back on.
"I'm optimistic that we should get something done this week," said Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D. "I think there's a path forward here."
Back on Tuesday, Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., believed the Senate would vote soon.
"I think it probably could happen Thursday. It might be pushed until Friday. But more than likely Thursday," said Mullin.
But the Oklahoma Republican offered this caveat.
"I'm just making assumptions," cautioned Mullin.
OVER ONE MONTH INTO GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN AND NO END IN SIGHT – BUT PREDICTIONS RUN RAMPANT
This is the government shutdown of 2025. And no one knows anything.
Mullin was back on FOX Business on Wednesday, recalibrating what he said a day earlier.
"There's been a group working in a very strong bipartisan manner, saying once this election is over, we're going to reopen. And then today, they came back with some of the most ridiculous demands to take authority away from President Trump – wanting us as a Senate to guarantee what the House can and can't do. And it's just not feasible," said Mullin.
Republicans have long known that the House-passed interim spending bill (from September 19) simply doesn’t work anymore. Even if the Senate were to align with the House, that legislation only funds the government through November 21. And that would deposit Congress right back where it started on October 1 with a shutdown.
So Republicans began eyeing a longer temporary spending bill running through late January.
"We've lost five weeks. So the November 21st, deadline no longer makes a lot of sense," said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., referring to the end date of the original spending bill – still not passed by the Senate.
But Republicans need buy-in from Democrats to break a filibuster on any bill to terminate the record-breaking shutdown.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., was circumspect when asked what Democrats might support after a lengthy lunch meeting of Democratic senators on Tuesday.
"We had a very good caucus and we’re exploring all the options," was Schumer’s anodyne reply.
SHUTDOWN SEEN FROM THE PULPIT: INCHING ALONG ON A WING AND A PRAYER
But despite discussions, no one is exactly sure what could court Democratic votes. Especially since Republicans aren’t relenting.
"It seems they're pretty dug in and they're okay, screwing people over on their healthcare," said Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz.
Schumer and a group of Senate Democrats incensed House liberals when they helped the GOP avoid a filibuster on a bill to fund the government in March. So it’s natural that House Democrats are leery of getting burned again.
"How much skepticism would there be from House Democrats on any sort of agreement that would come from the Senate?" yours truly asked House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y.
"We said from the very beginning that we will evaluate in good faith any bipartisan agreement that emerges from the Senate," said Jeffries.
And that’s why the government likely remains shuttered for a while – even though there are bona fide efforts to solve the crisis.
"I don't think any of us expected that it would drag on this long," said House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La.
But on Thursday, Senate Republicans developed a new plan which they hoped might end the government shutdown.
Or at least liquefy the ice a little more.
OPTIMISM FADES AS SENATE DEMOCRATS DIG IN, HOLD OUT OVER OBAMACARE DEMANDS
Republicans are challenging Democrats to block a test vote on a new gambit which would fund the Department of Veterans Affairs and military construction projects, the Department of Agriculture and Congress itself. That represents three of the 12 federal spending areas which Congress must approve each year. This plan would fund those three sectors until September 30, 2026. Lawmakers would attach another Band-Aid spending bill for the rest of the government until late January. But it was unclear if Democrats would go along.
"I'm less optimistic this morning than I was yesterday," said Johnson. "What I understand is that Chuck Schumer has pulled them back from that and that they're being instructed and told they can't go there."
And progressives are again leaning on Schumer.
Especially after his decision to help fund the government in March.
"He's got to keep doing it and we've got to deliver a win because we can't have what happened in the spring happen again," said Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., to colleague Aishah Hasnie.
Democrats are invigorated after Tuesday’s election results.
"There is no reason to surrender now. Every reason to stand firm," said Blumenthal. "The message of Tuesday simply confirms what we've been hearing again and again and again."
The plan could include an agreement to hold a vote by a particular date in the future related to healthcare subsidies. That’s the Democrats’ key request. But Democrats want more: a guarantee that Congress will offset spiking ObamaCare costs.
With the House not voting since September 19, Democrats are turning to political guerrilla tactics to make their points about the shutdown.
Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-Penn., showed up at a press conference by the House Republican leadership on Wednesday and hectored Johnson. U.S. Capitol Police tried to remove Houlahan – until they realized she was a member of Congress.
Johnson called Houlahan’s interruption "beneath her."
TRAVEL INDUSTRY SOUNDS ALARM OVER HOW SHUTDOWN WILL IMPACT AMERICANS AHEAD OF THANKSGIVING
Rep. Yassamin Ansari, D-Ariz., set up a table outside the speaker’s office on Thursday afternoon, promising to answer questions, discuss healthcare and the Epstein files. Ansari says Capitol Police told her she could "get arrested if the table’s not moved."
Ansari hawked healthcare subsidies as the nation’s air traffic controllers continue to work without paychecks.
"They’re heroes. They keep us safe every single day," said Ansari of the controllers.
But she added a caveat:
"Is it more important than 24 million Americans losing their health insurance or not being able to afford their rent?" asked Ansari. "No."
Aviation concerns are gripping the nation. But only one Republican is saying out loud what everyone is thinking.
"All it takes is one little accident. And if people die?" said Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo. "So air travel is nothing to mess around with."
Even if the Senate votes this week, few expect an immediate breakthrough.
"My hopes and expectations are always that we're going to have enough Democrats to actually proceed. But I don't know. We’ll see," said Thune. "The Dems are having a hard time taking yes for an answer."
Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., offered his own time frame.
"We're at least seven days and more likely ten and very possibly two weeks away from opening up at best," said Kennedy.
Democrats are split as to what they want to do. Still, many want an off-ramp. And progressives are ready to rage if moderate Democrats burn them again.
So we are far from the end of the government shutdown saga. But we’re not at the beginning anymore. Perhaps that’s solace to those tracking the shutdown.
After all, anything which begins – usually ends.
Eventually.
ICE says it took down group linked to violent home invasions in Texas; video shows victim chased, attacked
FIRST ON FOX: ICE said federal agents captured members of a South American theft ring believed to be in the U.S. illegally who attacked families in a series of violent armed break-ins across Texas.
According to the agency, the group targeted small business owners across the Lone Star State.
In one incident, video obtained by FOX News shows two masked men holding handguns chasing a screaming resident around his house. The victim was seen being hit by the suspects.
Four suspects have been federally indicted in connection with the break-ins, and two have been convicted.
ICE ARRESTS ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT ARMED WITH KNIFE, CRACK PIPE IN HOUSTON PARKING LOT
The group is believed to be members of the South American Theft Group (SATG), an organized network of foreign nationals, primarily from South America, who travel throughout the U.S. targeting wealthy homes and businesses by committing burglaries and thefts, according to ICE.
The members, ICE stated, use encrypted messaging apps, burner phones and pre-surveillance of neighborhoods to identify and target victims. Items stolen include high-value jewelry, luxury watches and cash.
ICE said most members of the group are in the U.S. illegally or remain in the country on expired visas.
ICE OPERATION PREVENTS ‘NIGHTMARES AND PTSD’ IN MASSIVE TEXAS OPERATION
One man involved, 38-year-old Joel Hallynson Espinal-Cantareo, is an illegal migrant from Honduras who was convicted and sentenced in September to more than 11 years in federal prison for interference with interstate commerce by robbery, according to ICE. His federal sentence will run consecutively to pending state cases.
Espinal-Cantareo was involved in at least three armed home invasions at residences in Irving, Cedar Hill and Frisco, investigators said. In those incidents, business owners were pistol-whipped, zip-tied and forced to hand over cash and valuable items.
"This 11-year sentence sends a clear message that violent crime and threats to public safety will not be tolerated," Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Dallas Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard said in a statement. "Espinal-Cantareo's actions affected small businesses and endangered lives. This significant sentence reflects the seriousness of those crimes. ICE will continue to work closely with our federal, state and local partners to protect our communities and bring violent offenders to justice."
Three suspects were indicted after HSI presented the federal case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Sherman. A fourth suspect, who was prosecuted separately by the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, has since been convicted and sentenced to life in prison.
Two other cases are still pending, according to ICE.
ICE said it has issued an immigration detainer to ensure Espinal-Cantareo is transferred to federal immigration custody when he finishes his federal sentence. The agency said it will pursue his deportation following his release from federal custody.
A list of all the honorees in the seventh annual Fox Nation Patriot Awards
After a tumultuous year in politics, Fox News honored everyday Americans and the American spirit in the seventh annual Fox Nation Patriot Awards, hosted by Sean Hannity.
The seventh annual Patriot Awards rocked the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts in New York on Thursday night. With special appearances from first lady Melania Trump and Turning Point USA CEO Erika Kirk and superstar country singer Jason Aldean highlighting the festivities, here's a full list of this year's award recipients.
‘PATRIOT OF THE YEAR’ — MELANIA TRUMP
Melania Trump's honor comes after her husband, President Donald Trump, received the award at last year's show. The last 12 months saw the first lady involved in several domestic and global affairs, most notably her advocacy for children suffering from the war in Ukraine.
She wrote a "peace letter" to Russian President Vladimir Putin back in August, urging him to protect children and "nurture the next generation’s hope."
"Mr. Putin, you can single handedly restore their melodic laughter," read the letter. "In protecting the innocence of these children, you will do more than serve Russia alone—you serve humanity itself."
MELANIA TRUMP 'PEACE LETTER' TO PUTIN HAILED BY USHA VANCE, WHO CALLS HER A 'TRAILBLAZER'
Back in March, she was a participant in a Capitol Hill roundtable discussion about the Take It Down Act, a bill that aimed to reduce the spread of non-consensual intimate images online. With the help of bipartisan support, the legislation was signed into law on May 19.
Melania Trump also gave a speech at an International Women of Courage awards ceremony in April to spotlight the accomplishments of women worldwide, including Israeli lawyer Amit Soussana, who survived 55 days in Hamas captivity after the Oct. 7 attacks.
Mrs. Trump was honored for her determination and leadership in her White House role. Melania is often seen comforting children in hospitals, visiting the troops and talking to survivors of disasters. The first lady spoke about the importance of innovation and the American dream, offering encouraging words to those who reach for the stars.
MELANIA TRUMP NAMED FOX NATION’S ‘PATRIOT OF THE YEAR’ FOR GLOBAL CHILDREN’S ADVOCACY WORK
"When someone creates from conviction a song, a movement, an idea, it ripples outward, uniting our people," she said. "Daring to chase your dream is the American way. Innovation isn't accidental here, it's in our DNA. "
‘CHARLIE KIRK LEGACY AWARD’ — ERIKA KIRK
Kirk became the first winner of the new award named in honor of her late husband, being added to the Patriot Awards after the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk in September 2025. Country music icon Jason Aldean and his wife Brittany presented the distinction and performed "Try That in a Small Town" and "How Far Does a Goodbye Go."
"I watched (Charlie) pour every ounce of himself into the students, into raising up the most courageous generation, and inspiring so many people to stand firm in faith and to love this country," Erika said while accepting the award.
She encouraged Americans to think about their legacies and the positive impact they can have on the world for generations to come.
"I know this award is about legacy," she said. "It's about my legacy, our children's legacy, my husband's legacy, but it's also about your legacy. I really want you to take a minute tonight to think about what that is. What are you leaving behind for your children? What are you standing for, for your family? Will you be proud of that when you get to Heaven and stand before the Lord? Just think on that, and pray on that."
"I want to encourage you to know and understand something that Charlie knew and understood so deeply," she continued. "He knew that evil wins when good people stay silent and so, for the rest of my life, I will make sure that I don't stay silent. I'll keep speaking the truth, no matter the cost …and I pray that all of you do, too, for Charlie. "
ERIKA KIRK ACCEPTS CHARLIE KIRK LEGACY AWARD HONORING HUSBAND, VOWS TO NEVER 'STAY SILENT'
‘MOST VALUABLE PATRIOT AWARD’— ALEXA ANDERSON AND REESE ECKARD
Alexa Anderson and Reese Eckard accepted the "Most Valuable Patriot Award" for fighting for protection and fairness in women's sports.
The duo filed a lawsuit against the Oregon School Athletics Association (OSAA) after they refused to stand on the podium with a transgender competitor during the state title meet.
"To all the girls who are currently fighting for fairness, just know nothing will happen if you do nothing," Reese Eckard said. "We need to fight to protect the future of women's sports and to be strong and courageous, knowing God will always be with us."
Alexa Anderson expressed gratitude to those who have encouraged the pair to grow as athletes and supported them in standing up for their beliefs.
‘T2T STEPHEN SILLER AWARD’ — JOHN ‘JR’ GAUDET
John "JR" Gaudet, a firefighter who lost his life during the line of duty, was remembered for his bravery, kindness, and generosity.
Gaudet's widow, Felly, accepted the award on behalf of her late husband, remembering how much he loved everyone so greatly and served others.
"In this journey of grief, losing your loved one, the biggest fear that I have is people forgetting him, people forgetting his laugh, his stories, his sacrifice, but tonight, you all remind me that he's not forgotten, that you all still remember him, not just as a hero to his community, but who he was to us, his family," she said. "To everyone at home and here: thank you for keeping his memory alive, and thank you for being mine and my kids' village. "
Stephanie Diller, the widow of slain NYPD Officer Jonathan Diller, presented the award on Jonathan's behalf last year. Jonathan was shot and killed in Queens back in March 2024, sparking outrage across the country after he was allegedly killed by a man with more than 20 prior arrests.
"Looking at Stephen, a man who also lost his father and is up here supporting us, it gives me hope that my son will be OK," she said. "And although we suffered this tragedy, we will not live a tragic life. And we will live a life that supports the legacy and the spirit of who Jonathan was."
‘SALUTE TO SERVICE AWARD’ — MAJOR JAMES CAPERS, JR.
Major James Capers, Jr., who bravely and heroically served the country as a Marine, accepted the "Salute to Service Award." Capers saved seven of his fellow Marines when his recon group was ambushed and outnumbered during the Vietnam war, according to a previous report.
"It's an honor to be here," Capers said. "We all lost a lot of good Marines during that bloody war, and I'm one of them; I'm one of three living Marines from my team. I'm here to honor them, their families and what you mean to this country. It's very serious. The world looks on us. They sometimes question our motives, but they will never question our drive. We will fight any force in the world. We've done that.
Paula Pedene and Dr. Sam Foote captured last year's award after blowing the whistle on the Veteran Affair's alleged failures to properly serve veterans. "To all the whistleblowers out there, it’s a good fight," Pedene said during her acceptance speech. "It’s a tough one, but it’s a good one. We need truth, we need accountability."
‘THE HONOR AWARD’ — EDAN ALEXANDER
Edan Alexander was kidnapped by Hamas during the October 7, 2023 massacre and held for over 500 days. Now, he fights against the very terrorists that once held him captive.
His parents, Yael and Adi Alexander, accepted the award on his behalf and Edan expressed his gratitude over video message.
"Serving Israel and standing with America remains the greatest privilege of my life," Alexander said. "First, I want to thank President Trump for your leadership and for standing with Israel in the hostages. Your support makes this moment possible, and I am deeply grateful. For my family, I wanted to thank you for never giving up on me. And to the soldiers still fighting and the families of the fallen, I carry your sacrifice with me every day. Thank you and may God bless you all."
This award is named in honor of Fox News correspondent Benjamin Hall, who was severely injured during a March 2022 attack in Ukraine. Later that November, he accepted a Courage Award at the Patriot Awards for his brave reporting.
‘YOUNG PATRIOT AWARD’ — DEVARJAYE ‘D.J.’ DANIEL
"DJ" Daniel, a thirteen-year-old patriot who has bravely fought cancer, accepted the Fox Nation's "Young Patriot Award." President Donald Trump made the boy an honorary Secret Service agent months ago, after he expressed a deep desire to serve the country.
"On my 11th brain surgery, I woke up on a cloud that day," Daniel shared. "God told me I was one of his angels and I'm doing God's work. He said, "I'm going to give you your wings, but I'm going to take these back because you don't get these until you graduate the school of life."
Daniel's father shared his son was first inspired to be a police officer after having pizza with three officers while being displaced during Hurricane Harvey.
"They helped us, so I want to start helping more people," Daniel said during the Patriot Awards introduction.
The three officers surprised Daniel during his acceptance speech. Daniel continues to inspire millions with his bravery.
Past winners of this award showcasing patriotism in America are Olympic gold medalist Tamyra Mensah-Stock and former NBA player Enes Kantor Freedom.
Indiana resident Cameron Blasek took home the award during last year's show for standing his ground after local school administrators allegedly attempted to thwart him from displaying American flags in early 2024.
‘FAITH AWARD’ — SKYLER DERRINGTON
Skyler Derrington was presented with Fox Nation's first "Faith Award." Derrington was at Camp Mystic when floodwaters tragically struck, taking the lives of campers and staffers.
She miraculously survived and made her own rendition of "Hallelujah," remembering God's faithfulness through tragedy. She shared that song at the Patriot Awards.
‘HEROISM AWARD’ — LARRY PICKETT, JR.
West Point Cadet Larry Pickett, Jr. demonstrated a selfless act of heroism when he saw a man trapped in a crashed car. He sprang into action alongside his father and saved the man, David Denton, before the car became engulfed in flames.
"At West Point, we're taught what it truly means to live with courage, honor … and that night was just one moment to live out what so many around me model every day," Pickett said. "So, I accept this, not only for myself, but for my entire family and everyone at West Point."
Denton surprised Pickett at the Patriot Awards, saying that God had "sent down an angel" to save his life.
Fox Nation programs are viewable on-demand and from your mobile device app, but only for Fox Nation subscribers. Go to Fox Nation to start a free trial and watch the extensive library from your favorite Fox Nation personalities.
NFL fans skewer Broncos-Raiders game amid listless offensive performances
An NFL football game technically took place on Thursday night featuring the Denver Broncos and the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Broncos won the game, 10-7, but it was as ugly as it gets. The two teams combined for two touchdowns, three turnovers, 13 three-and-outs, 22 penalties for 161 yards and 14 punts. Offense was absent as Denver produced 220 total yards and Las Vegas had 188 total yards.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
NFL fans took notice and were left mystified by both teams’ performances in the matchup as it was far from the bitter AFC West battle that everyone was expecting.
Still, the Broncos picked up a big divisional win.
Bo Nix was 16-of-28 with 150 passing yards, a touchdown pass and two interceptions. Running back J.K. Dobbins had 18 carries for 77 yards, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. Troy Franklin had five catches for 40 yards and a touchdown.
For the Raiders, quarterback Geno Smith was 16-of-26 with 143 passing yards and an interception. He was sacked six times.
PANTHERS RB RICO DOWDLE TURNS GOFUNDME JOKE INTO A POSITIVE CAUSE
Running back Ashton Jeanty had 60 rushing yards on 19 carries and a touchdown. Tyler Lockett, who was playing his first game in the silver and black, had five catches for 44 yards.
If there was a true bright spot in the game, it was in the Raiders’ secondary. Kyu Blu Kelly had two interceptions. They were the first interceptions of his career.
A huge blocked punt by the Broncos led to a Will Lutz go-ahead field goal.
The first half was a defense-dominated punt fest. Between the two teams, there were eight punts, two touchdowns and one turnover.
A.J. Cole was the first Raiders punter to have two punts inside 2-yard line since 2011. One of Cole’s punts bounced in front of the goal line and then took a sideways trajectory before it dribbled out of bounds.
Broncos punter Jeremy Crenshaw had a couple of questionable kicks, but Denver’s defense managed to make a few stops.
The Raiders broke the ice in the first quarter after an errant Crenshaw punt. Smith led Las Vegas on an eight-play, 41-yard drive that ended with a Jeanty touchdown.
Nix and company got the offense moving on their third drive of the second quarter. He led Denver on a five-play, 53-yard touchdown drive. Nix found Franklin on a 7-yard touchdown catch.
Denver moved to 8-2 with the win. Las Vegas fell to 2-7.
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Melania Trump named Fox Nation’s ‘Patriot of the Year’ for global children’s advocacy work
First lady Melania Trump accepted the prestigious "Patriot of the Year" award at the seventh annual Fox Nation Patriot Awards in Brookville, New York, on Thursday night.
The event honors the nation’s unsung heroes and ordinary people achieving extraordinary goals. Now serving her second term as first lady, Melania Trump has expanded her international advocacy for children.
"I applaud American dreamers and innovators who embrace originality," said Trump while accepting the award.
"Let's embrace the spirit of ambition. Let's celebrate everyone who dares to think differently. For it is these courageous Americans who are the heartbeat of our civilization."
The first lady received the honor one year after her husband, then President-elect Donald Trump, was presented with the honorary award following his 2024 election victory.
STARS UNITE AS FOX NATION’S PATRIOT AWARDS GEAR UP TO HONOR THE HEART AND HEROISM OF AMERICA
In October, Melania Trump said her ongoing talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin contributed to the reunification of eight Ukrainian children with their families. Russia continues to face accusations of abducting thousands of children during the war.
The first lady’s "peace letter" was hand-delivered to Putin during an August summit in Alaska. Around the same time, Ukraine’s first lady sent her a note, carried by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his White House visit, thanking her for drawing attention to the issue.
Melania Trump has also supported the "TAKE IT DOWN Act," legislation designed to protect children and their families from online exploitation and extortion. The act targets the non-consensual sharing of explicit images and the spread of sexual deepfakes.
In May, Melania Trump secured a $25 million investment in President Donald Trump’s fiscal year 2026 budget to provide housing and support for youth transitioning out of foster care.
"This is another essential measure that ensures the safety, welfare, and autonomy of those in the foster community," the first lady said in a White House statement.
Other award categories at the ceremony include "Young Patriot," "Heroism," the "T2T Stephen Siller Award," "Most Valuable Patriot" and "Salute to Service," each recognizing individuals whose actions embody courage, service and love of country.
The 2025 ceremony introduced a new award honoring the late Charlie Kirk, which will be a permanent part of the Patriot Awards. The honor recognizes individuals who uphold the values Kirk championed, including faith, family and free speech.
Since its creation in 2019, the Patriot Awards ceremony has become one of Fox Nation’s most anticipated annual events, celebrating unity, service and patriotism.
Fox Nation programs are viewable on-demand and from your mobile device app, but only for Fox Nation subscribers. Go to Fox Nation to start a free trial and watch the extensive library from your favorite Fox Nation personalities.
Benjamin Hall helps present 'Honor Award' named after daughter who inspired his survival in Ukraine attack
Fox News senior correspondent Benjamin Hall and Fox News co-host Johnny "Joey" Jones presented the first-ever "Honor Award" at Thursday’s Patriot Awards in Brookville, New York. For Hall, the backstory behind the award’s name holds deep personal meaning for him.
Hall was severely injured while covering the war in Ukraine in March 2022. The car he and his crew were traveling in was hit by Russian missiles outside Kyiv.
Two were killed in the attack, Fox News photojournalist Pierre Zakrzewski and Ukrainian journalist Oleksandra Kuvshynova. It left Hall fighting for his life.
The "Honor Award" is named after Hall’s daughter, Honor, whose voice he credits with giving him the strength to survive that day.
"It was her voice that gave me the strength I needed, gave me the willpower I needed. Gave me more focus than I'd ever had in my life. And that saved me," said Hall in a video about the moment.
Hall said that during the missile attack, he blacked out from his injuries. He described hearing a life-changing voice that pulled him back into consciousness and got him to safety.
That same spirit of courage and resilience inspired the recipient of the first-ever "Honor Award," American-Israeli dual citizen Edan Alexander.
Alexander, a New Jersey native, was kidnapped by Hamas and held for nearly 600 days. He officially returned home in June, but has since moved back to Israel to continue serving in the Israel Defense Forces.
"Serving Israel and standing with America remains the greatest privilege of my life," said Alexander in a video message at the award ceremony on Thursday.
Hall reflected on his own near-death experience and the meaning behind the award.
"I was almost gone, and I saw my daughter, Honor. She was 6 years old, and she was in front of me, and into the blackness, there she was — Honor," Hall said Thursday on "Fox & Friends."
"She said, ‘Daddy, Daddy, you’ve got to get out of the car. You’ve got to get out of the car,’ and she brought me back," Hall continued, crediting his daughter for saving his life.
He expressed gratitude to God at that moment, for providing him with the voice he needed to hear.
"God sends you what you need to see when you're in the worst scenarios, and He sent me my daughter, Honor," Hall said.
Since the accident, Hall has undergone dozens of surgeries. He returned to Ukraine for the first time since the attack in 2023 for a sit-down interview with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
This year’s ceremony also introduced a new award honoring the late Charlie Kirk. The prize will recognize individuals who champion the values Kirk stood for, including free speech, faith and family.
Fox Nation programs are viewable on-demand and from your mobile device app, but only for Fox Nation subscribers. Go to Fox Nation to start a free trial and watch the extensive library from your favorite Fox Nation personalities.
Blues goalie clarifies intentions after trying to pocket puck from Alex Ovechkin's 900th goal
Jordan Binnington, the longtime St. Louis Blues goaltender, offered more details about his thought process in the moments after he allowed Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin's milestone 900th goal.
Binnington contended with some backlash after he put the puck into the back of his hockey gear. A linesman made sure to retrieve the puck from the stunned goalie.
Ovechkin was asked about it after the Capitals’ 6-1 win.
"Yeah, I just saw it," he said when asked about it by a reporter. "You know, I’m not going to comment on it."
Binnington is now making it clear that he fully intended to return the puck to the superstar Russian hockey player.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
"Yeah, I figured I basically had an assist on the goal there, turning the puck over. [I] didn't think he'd mind sharing it," Binnington quipped on Thursday. "I had full intention to give it back to him."
In April, Ovechkin surpassed Wayne Gretzky to become the top scorer in NHL history. On Wednesday, he became the first player in history to record 900 goals.
PANTHERS STAR STEPS AWAY FROM TEAM TO COACH FRIEND'S YOUTH HOCKEY TEAM FOR HEARTBREAKING REASON
The puck was returned to Ovechkin in time for locker room photos commemorating his achievement.
Before he was taken out in the second period of Wednesday's loss, Binnington was charged with four goals.
He later praised Ovechkin for scoring the momentous goal. "Incredible play by him to catch that, spin around and get that on net from a bad angle. Obviously, he's such a legendary player. Seeing a play like that still happening at his age, it's next level. He continues to impress," Binnington said.
Ovechkin’s teammate Logan Thompson also offered his thoughts on Binnington's actions. "Maybe he was trying to grab it to give it to him," he told reporters sheepishly.
According to Binnington said Thompson's takeaway was correct and reaffirmed his intention to return to the puck.
"Full intention to give it back," Binnington noted. "He's a legendary, inspirational player for the game and for the league. It's a good moment for him and their team."
Fox News' Ryan Gaydos contributed to this report.
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Key Trump ally jumps into New York governor's race days after shocking Mamdani mayoral victory
Rep. Elise Stefanik will officially launch her long-anticipated campaign for New York governor on Friday, entering the 2026 race as a Republican challenger to Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul, multiple sources confirmed to Fox News on Thursday.
Stefanik, a top House Republican and one of former President Donald Trump's closest allies, represents a conservative-leaning district in upstate New York and has been weighing a gubernatorial run for months.
"It will be very, very soon and people are very excited," Stefanik said Thursday in an interview on Fox News' "The Story with Martha MacCallum."
"There’s been an outpouring of support from Republicans, Democrats, independents, all across our great state," Stefanik touted. "Many Democrats who previously supported Kathy Hochul are lining up in support."
STEFANIK WRITING NEW BOOK AMID GUBERNATORIAL RUN BUZZ
Stefanik, a member of the House Republican leadership, for months has repeatedly charged that Hochul is "the worst governor in America."
And Stefanik has blasted Hochul over the governor's endorsement earlier this autumn of Zohran Mamdani, who this week was elected mayor of New York City.
REPUBLICANS AIM TO LINK VULERNABLE DEMOCRATS TO MAMDANI
"People are looking for strong, commonsense leadership to be a check on this radical insanity that we’re seeing play out in New York City with Zohran Mamdani as a tax-hiking, defund the police, antisemite socialist," Stefanik said in her Fox News interview, again linking Hochul to the progressive mayor-elect.
Stefanik, who once criticized Trump, has since become one of his staunchest defenders in Congress.
After Trump’s White House victory last year, he briefly considered naming Stefanik U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, but ultimately backed off amid concerns that her departure would shrink the GOP’s razor-thin House majority.
It has been more than two decades since a Republican last won a New York gubernatorial race. The last was former Gov. George Pataki’s re-election in 2002.
COULD THIS TRUMP ALLY BREAK THE GOP'S 20-YEAR LOSING STREAK IN THIS KEY STATE?
Hochul, meanwhile, could face a tough re-election fight.
A former lieutenant governor, Hochul took office in 2021 after Democrat Andrew Cuomo resigned amid multiple scandals.
She defeated then-Rep. Lee Zeldin by just over six points in 2022 to win a full four-year term. But Zeldin's showing was the best by a Republican gubernatorial nominee since Pataki won re-election to a third term in 2002.
Meanwhile, Trump, who lost New York by 23 points in the 2020 presidential election, trimmed his deficit by 10 points last November.
Hochul, a moderate Democrat from Buffalo, is facing a primary challenge from New York Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, in a very rare move by a lieutenant governor to primary challenge a sitting incumbent.
Stefanik is expected to hammer Hochul as she focuses her campaign on the issue of affordability.
"People are very concerned about affordability and I have a strong record of delivering for families," she highlighted in her Fox News interview.
And she charged that Hochul had made New York "the most unaffordable state in the nation. We have the highest taxes, the highest energy prices, the highest utility prices, the highest grocery prices, and rent that continues to skyrocket."
Democrats notched double-digit victories this week in New Jersey and Virginia, emphasizing affordability as a top issue. Stefanik said those results show Republicans must put forward a clear economic vision.
"You have to have a vision, and you have to put forth policies to make your state affordable again," she said. "We are going to win the affordability message because her [Hochul] record is making it the most unaffordable state in the nation."
But New York State Democratic Party Spokesperson Addison Dick charged that "Elise Stefanik is a rubber stamp in Washington for Trump’s deeply unpopular agenda that is raising costs, gutting health care, and defunding New York schools, hospitals, and police."
And Democratic Governors Association spokesperson Kevin Donohoe charged that "from gutting health care to backing cost-raising tariffs, Stefanik’s record as Trump’s cheerleader in chief could not be more toxic with New York voters."
Earlier this year, Republican Rep. Mike Lawler of New York seriously mulled a run for governor. But Lawler announced in July that he would seek re-election and forgo a gubernatorial run.
Stefanik, however, has already begun assembling a seasoned campaign team that includes veteran Republican pollster Tony Fabrizio, who served as chief pollster for Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.
But Stefanik may not have the Republican nomination to herself.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a Trump ally who was re-elected this week, may be eyeing a run for governor, GOP sources in New York confirmed to Fox News.
Marjorie Taylor Greene praises Nancy Pelosi's ability to get her agenda passed, wishes GOP could do the same
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., praised Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., after the former Speaker of the House announced she was retiring from Congress.
Pelosi announced on Thursday that she will be retiring when her term ends and will not seek reelection. When asked by CNN's Wolf Blitzer for her reaction, Greene said her immediate reaction was that she believes in term limits but praised the accomplishments of Pelosi's four-decade career in the House.
"I’m very impressed at her ability to get things done," Greene said. "I wish we could get things done for our party like Nancy Pelosi was able to deliver for her party. So, I wish her well in her retirement, but I would like to see people exit Washington a lot sooner rather than wait until their eighties."
PELOSI CALLS TRUMP 'VILE CREATURE' and ‘WORST THING ON THE FACE OF THE EARTH’
As the government shutdown continues to drag on, Greene has been calling out leadership of her own party for failing to enforce the "America First" agenda.
Republicans were routed by their Democratic opponents in multiple elections this week, and some GOP leaders have downplayed these as exceptional cases. Greene, however, argued to the CNN hosts that this is a "wake-up call" for the party that they need to deliver on the promises they made to their voters. She argued that Republican leaders, unlike Pelosi, have failed to fulfill the agenda they were elected to enact.
"I’m America First, and I don’t apologize for that, and I believe Congress, both Democrats and Republicans, should be serving the American people," she said. "And when you campaign on America First, it’s like having a restaurant advertising like a certain type of food, and then and then you don’t deliver America First, and then your customers come in your restaurant and there’s the food is totally different, and they’re like, ‘Wait a minute, this isn‘t what I was coming in for,’ You’re not going to have those return customers."
When asked about what she would critique or do differently from Trump, she argued that the president has not focused on the agenda he was elected to do.
"My critique is not being focused on America First, but I largely blame that on our Congress because I serve in the House. I also blame that on who‘s advising him in the White House.," she said. "You know, keeping him on nonstop tours around the world and nonstop meetings with foreign countries' leaders is not America First. It‘s just not. I think domestic policy should be the most important issue that the president and the Republican-controlled house and Senate are working on. And that showed up in the election on Tuesday."
When asked whether Trump himself bears some responsibility, she faulted the "silo of information" he is kept in.
The White House didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.
FIVE TIMES NANCY PELOSI LOST HER COOL WITH THE MEDIA
She went on to note that she has consistently called out GOP leadership throughout her career, but has never considered leaving the party.
"So everyone may not know this, but I ran for Congress in 2020, frustrated with my own party," she recalled. "I feel like many Republican candidates, they campaigned one way and then when they get power, they do nothing with it, or they never fully deliver what they promised to the American people. And I think there are many voters right now, and I think that showed on Tuesday that genuinely feel that way. I represent Americans that are really done with foreign wars and foreign policy, really want to focus on our own problems, our issues."
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Greene has been calling out Republican leaders and been making appearances on shows like "The View." She said during the interview that Trump may not be her biggest fan as she has been criticizing GOP leaders, even as she supports him as president, and said, "That’s OK."