Federal Agencies Begin Immigration Blitz in Chicago

What's Happening

Immigration

Federal Agencies Begin Immigration Blitz in Chicago

What's going on: The Trump administration launched a large-scale immigration enforcement operation in Chicago on Sunday, with help from several Department of Justice agencies. Sources told CBS News Chicago that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) targeted individuals with active warrants. However, White House border czar Tom Homan said undocumented immigrants who aren’t specific targets could be detained as “collateral” if they’re near the raids. ICE said the “enhanced targeted operations” will continue in the coming days. It’s part of the Trump administration’s broader plan to increase arrests nationwide. Federal officials said they detained more than 950 people yesterday across several cities.

What it means: The Trump administration’s plans have sparked widespread anxiety in communities, causing ripple effects on local businesses and schools as undocumented people brace for more raids. Supporters, including Vice President JD Vance, frame the effort as vital to national security, while critics argue it further erodes trust between federal agencies and residents. Meanwhile, Trump is expanding the scope of federal authority by giving more immigration enforcement powers to DOJ agencies. Experts say that raises concerns about government overreach, civil rights violations, and the long-term consequences for immigrant communities.

Related: Deportation Flights and Tariff Threats — the US-Colombia Showdown Explained (AP)

Health

Trump Admin Shelves EPA Plan To Tackle Toxic PFAS

What's going on: The Trump administration has withdrawn a Biden-era proposal to limit PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” in drinking water. Under the original plan, utility companies were to restrict PFAS — which have been linked to cancer, immune suppression, and developmental harm — with the help of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). State regulators had been waiting on the EPA to set nationwide limits on the chemicals to guide water safety measures. Now, CBS News reports those plans have stalled, leaving communities across the country vulnerable without federal action.

What it means: If corporations aren’t required to regulate PFAS, consumers will likely bear the cost of filtering them out of drinking water. That’s bad news for both public health and wallets. During his Senate confirmation hearing, former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin (R) — Trump’s pick for EPA administrator — pledged to make addressing PFAS a “top priority.” It’s unclear whether the Trump administration will take any new action on forever chemicals, or if this move will upset the so-called “Make America Healthy Again” wing of the party. For now, one environmental advocate called the change “a tragic setback for water protection throughout America.”

Related: Here’s What You Can Expect at RFK Jr.’s Confirmation Hearing This Week (NBC)

Retail

We're Living in Dupe Nation 

What's going on: America loves a dupe. Lately, TikTokers have been obsessed with Costco’s wears that look uncannily like a coveted $118 Lululemon sweatshirt (except it’s $17.99) and a pair of UGG slippers (around $30 vs. $110). For many, a good dupe lets them experience the feeling of high-end opulence without the extreme price tag. Why do you think the Walmart “Birkin” sold out in a flash? Dupes are a half-step away from the old-fashioned “fakes” and “knockoffs,” except they operate within the legal boundaries of copyright law, and… there’s way less stigma attached to them. In fact, finding a good dupe and sharing it online is a status symbol of its own these days. 

What it means: The rise of the dupe follows the path of Temu and Zara, which have both faced various copyright allegations. It also comes at a time when prices are high (see: the eggs sticker shock) and as some consumers say the economy feels like a “scam.” Maybe that’s why finding something cheaper and similar at stores like Costco, where you’re already doing your grocery shopping, feels like a win. Of course, not all dupes are created equal. While some are made in the same factories as the “originals,” other dupes raise ethical concerns over sustainability and workers’ rights. Still, the luxury industry isn’t exactly innocent either.

Related: Is the Solution to Fast Fashion “Slow Fashion”? Here’s What You Need To Know (Vogue)

Freeze Week

The Danes were onto something when they prioritized coziness so much, they gave it a name. And living that hygge life has been top of mind for us as the temps continue to drop. That’s why we’ve gathered our cuddliest clothes, accessories, and knicknacks to keep you comfy this winter. Check out: 

• Workout clothes that'll help you brave the elements

• Our favorite winter boots to keep your feet warm and dry

• Must-have accessories if you’re always cold

Read Now

Settle This

Grazers unite. What's currently the fastest-growing snack category, according to The Wall Street Journal? 

Extra Credit

Listen

Pour yourself a cosmo because Are You a Charlotte? — a recently-launched podcast hosted by the Charlotte York herself (aka Kristin Davis) — is here. That's right, nearly 27 years after Sex and the City premiered, Davis is pulling back the pink-tulle curtain on the groundbreaking show in weekly podcast episodes packed with insider info. Think: Davis's surprising first impressions of the pilot, the lowball offer she initially received for her role (our jaws are still on the floor), and that she had originally auditioned to play a very different character. Charlotte, we raise a Magnolia cupcake to you.

Game Time

Wake your brain up this Monday with a game of Flipart. Just rotate the pieces to fit within the frame and get ready to feel the rush when they all fall into place. Get into it.