4 News & World Report: News, Rankings and Analysis on Politics, Education, Healthcare and More

The U.S. May Soon Strike Iran. Here’s Why1.

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Plus other questions about U.S.-Iran tensions, including how they affect you.

By Olivier Knox

Here's What's New at the Winter Olympics

The events are already underway, with the opening ceremony set for tomorrow.

USA - DECEMBER 20: (----EDITORIAL USE ONLY - MANDATORY CREDIT - âTHE US JUSTICE DEPARTMENT / HANDOUT' - NO MARKETING NO ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS - DISTRIBUTED AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS----) Bill Clinton and Jeffrey Epstein are seen in one is seen outside No 10 Downing Street in one of the images released by the US Department of State. The US Justice Department released thousands of records Friday related to the sex trafficking investigation into disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. The release came on the last day of the 30 days allowed by the Epstein Files Transparency Act -- legislation forcing the Justice Department action to release all documents related to the probe. (Photo by The US Justice Department / Handout /Anadolu via Getty Images)

The Epstein Files: 5 Things to Watch

The latest document dump has sparked new controversy, and some consequences.

View from inside front door of couple looking at Victorian facade; smiling real estate agent explains details of its style.

Will 6% Mortgage Rates Become Normal?

Experts say a return to ultralow pandemic-era rates isn't likely.

Rear view of mature woman kneeling near male technician repairing dishwasher at kitchen.

Survey: Nearly Half Don't Have Emergency Savings

A 4 News survey finds Americans' emergency fund balances are perilously low.

The Latest

Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore Funding for Rail Tunnel Between New York and New Jersey Exclusive-US Plans Initial Payment Towards Billions Owed to UN-Envoy Waltz Trump Administration Won't Let Student Deported to Honduras Return Trump Says Good Talks Ongoing on Ukraine Pentagon Says It's Cutting Ties With 'Woke' Harvard, Discontinuing Military Training, Fellowships Judge Orders Trump Administration to Bring Back 3 Families Deported to Honduras, Other Countries Trump Administration Approves Weed Killer Dicamba for Two Common Genetically Modified Crops New York Governor Signs Law Allowing Medical Aid in Dying for Terminally Ill Residents A Charismatic Straight Talker, Japan's Takaichi Is Poised to Expand Her Power in Sunday's Vote Government Must Reach Agreement on Right to Counsel for People at Minnesota ICE Facility, Judge Says

4 News Ranks Best Online Programs

Nearly 1,850 online programs were assessed as part of this year's rankings.

By Sarah Wood

Explore the Top Online MBA Programs

Here's what to know about tuition, deadlines and more before applying.

See the Top Online Bachelor's Programs

Learn about the online undergraduate programs that topped the 2026 rankings.

Female student study in the college library. She using laptop and learning online for university exam.

Full-Time vs. Part-Time Online Degrees

Obligations outside of class and the desired time frame for earning a degree should be...

Man working on laptop from his home and hanging out with his dog

Online Learning Trends to Know Now

New trends in online education are emerging.

The Latest

Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore Funding for Rail Tunnel Between New York and New Jersey Exclusive-US Plans Initial Payment Towards Billions Owed to UN-Envoy Waltz Trump Administration Won't Let Student Deported to Honduras Return Trump Says Good Talks Ongoing on Ukraine Pentagon Says It's Cutting Ties With 'Woke' Harvard, Discontinuing Military Training, Fellowships Judge Orders Trump Administration to Bring Back 3 Families Deported to Honduras, Other Countries Trump Administration Approves Weed Killer Dicamba for Two Common Genetically Modified Crops New York Governor Signs Law Allowing Medical Aid in Dying for Terminally Ill Residents A Charismatic Straight Talker, Japan's Takaichi Is Poised to Expand Her Power in Sunday's Vote Government Must Reach Agreement on Right to Counsel for People at Minnesota ICE Facility, Judge Says

2026 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care

Medium long shot of pregnant young Black woman sitting on examination table while senior Caucasian obstetrician checking her bare belly with hands in hospital

Getty Images

Find hospitals that provide high-quality labor and delivery services for uncomplicated pregnancies.

Pregnant woman sitting on examination table interacting with female doctor holding ultrasound images during prenatal care checkup in medical office

Understanding Maternity Hospital Costs

How much you’ll have to pay for childbirth can be confusing. Here’s what to expect.

Pregnant woman with long curly brown hair sat crossed legged on floor with hands on knees and eyes closed, meditating

7 Ways to Make Your Childbirth Easier

Get expert advice for a smooth labor and delivery experience.

Pregnant woman wearing grey eating healthy toast with avocado in kitchen

What Not to Eat While Pregnant

Avoiding certain foods is essential to protect your health and your developing baby.

Young pregnant packing the baby clothes and maternity items on backpack at home

Hospital Bag Checklist for Mom

Make sure to pack these essential hospital items for labor and after delivery.

The Latest

Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore Funding for Rail Tunnel Between New York and New Jersey Exclusive-US Plans Initial Payment Towards Billions Owed to UN-Envoy Waltz Trump Administration Won't Let Student Deported to Honduras Return Trump Says Good Talks Ongoing on Ukraine Pentagon Says It's Cutting Ties With 'Woke' Harvard, Discontinuing Military Training, Fellowships Judge Orders Trump Administration to Bring Back 3 Families Deported to Honduras, Other Countries Trump Administration Approves Weed Killer Dicamba for Two Common Genetically Modified Crops New York Governor Signs Law Allowing Medical Aid in Dying for Terminally Ill Residents A Charismatic Straight Talker, Japan's Takaichi Is Poised to Expand Her Power in Sunday's Vote Government Must Reach Agreement on Right to Counsel for People at Minnesota ICE Facility, Judge Says

Does Student Aid Cover Travel Costs?

(Emma McSpadden for USN&WR/Source: Getty Images, Canva, oneywhystudio, Anugraha Design)

An admissions expert at CollegeAdvisor answers a parent’s burning question.

By 4 News Staff

Education degree achievement, graduation or college, university diploma, school or learning classroom, wisdom or scholar concept, young adult student climb up ladder to reach graduate mortarboard hat.

College Apps: Top Tips for Right Now

Higher ed expert Jeff Selingo on what your senior, junior or sophomore should be doing...

The Pros and Cons of Online College

Virtual learning is here to stay. How to make the most of it.

Middle aged confident teacher in casualwear standing by blackboard in lecture hall and looking at group of students ready to answer

Choosing a Major in College

Select a discipline that reflects your interests and career goals.

The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich.

Best States for Education

These states are best positioned amid cuts to federal education spending.

The Latest

Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore Funding for Rail Tunnel Between New York and New Jersey Exclusive-US Plans Initial Payment Towards Billions Owed to UN-Envoy Waltz Trump Administration Won't Let Student Deported to Honduras Return Trump Says Good Talks Ongoing on Ukraine Pentagon Says It's Cutting Ties With 'Woke' Harvard, Discontinuing Military Training, Fellowships Judge Orders Trump Administration to Bring Back 3 Families Deported to Honduras, Other Countries Trump Administration Approves Weed Killer Dicamba for Two Common Genetically Modified Crops New York Governor Signs Law Allowing Medical Aid in Dying for Terminally Ill Residents A Charismatic Straight Talker, Japan's Takaichi Is Poised to Expand Her Power in Sunday's Vote Government Must Reach Agreement on Right to Counsel for People at Minnesota ICE Facility, Judge Says

Money Market Accounts vs. CDs

Woman sitting on couch with blanket writing on notebook and looking at laptop.

Getty Images

It comes down to a choice between greater flexibility or higher interest rates.

By Casey Bond, Sebastian Oliveira and Mark Evitt

Woman sitting at desk in front of laptop; smiling while holding and looking at credit card.

Chase Slate vs. Wells Fargo Reflect

These two credit cards clash in a head-to-head analysis to determine the superior...

Dressed in their holiday outfits, Pluto and Goofy pose for a photo along Main Street in Disneyland.

New Disney Inspire Visa Card

The Disney Inspire Visa Card saves money and unlocks benefits.

People shop for groceries at a store in New York, the United States, on March 28, 2025. The Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge rose more than anticipated in February, while consumer spending increased less than expected, the Commerce Department reported Friday. The core personal consumption expenditures PCE price index climbed 0.4 percent for the month, marking the largest gain since January 2024 and bringing the annual inflation rate to 2.8 percent. (Photo by Michael Nagle/Xinhua via Getty Images)

Consumer Sentiment Edges Up

The slight gain came mostly from those Americans who have large stock holdings.

Happy pregnant woman visit gynecologist doctor at hospital or medical clinic for pregnancy consultant

Fertility Financing Options, Explained

You could have multiple financial resources available to help you pay for...

The Latest

Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore Funding for Rail Tunnel Between New York and New Jersey Exclusive-US Plans Initial Payment Towards Billions Owed to UN-Envoy Waltz Trump Administration Won't Let Student Deported to Honduras Return Trump Says Good Talks Ongoing on Ukraine Pentagon Says It's Cutting Ties With 'Woke' Harvard, Discontinuing Military Training, Fellowships Judge Orders Trump Administration to Bring Back 3 Families Deported to Honduras, Other Countries Trump Administration Approves Weed Killer Dicamba for Two Common Genetically Modified Crops New York Governor Signs Law Allowing Medical Aid in Dying for Terminally Ill Residents A Charismatic Straight Talker, Japan's Takaichi Is Poised to Expand Her Power in Sunday's Vote Government Must Reach Agreement on Right to Counsel for People at Minnesota ICE Facility, Judge Says

Photos You Should See – Feb. 2026

Activists are approached by federal agents for following agent vehicles, on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Ryan Murphy)

(Ryan Murphy/AP)

4 News photo editors curate this month's most compelling images from at home and abroad.

By Michael A. Brooks

FILE - This Feb. 3, 1951 file photo shows a wall of ice on part of Niagara Falls in New York. Although it appears frozen, the water never actually stops flowing underneath. (AP Photo)

Picturing This Week in History

Here's a look back in time through The Associated Press photo archives.

A couple swims in the pool at Bungalows Key Largo in the evening.

Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts

Discover the best destinations for grown-up getaways.

Top Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

Bring the kids along on an all-inclusive trip without paying for the privilege.

Photos: 2025 Best Leaders Celebration

4 News & World Report brings together the top leaders in health, business...

The Latest

Judge Orders Trump Administration to Restore Funding for Rail Tunnel Between New York and New Jersey Exclusive-US Plans Initial Payment Towards Billions Owed to UN-Envoy Waltz Trump Administration Won't Let Student Deported to Honduras Return Trump Says Good Talks Ongoing on Ukraine Pentagon Says It's Cutting Ties With 'Woke' Harvard, Discontinuing Military Training, Fellowships Judge Orders Trump Administration to Bring Back 3 Families Deported to Honduras, Other Countries Trump Administration Approves Weed Killer Dicamba for Two Common Genetically Modified Crops New York Governor Signs Law Allowing Medical Aid in Dying for Terminally Ill Residents A Charismatic Straight Talker, Japan's Takaichi Is Poised to Expand Her Power in Sunday's Vote Government Must Reach Agreement on Right to Counsel for People at Minnesota ICE Facility, Judge Says

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News You Can Use

Best Jobs

The Best Jobs in America in 2026

These top occupations offer solid growth, big paychecks and job security.

By Susannah Snider, Ali Follman and Liz Opsitnik Archer

Best Hospitals

Best Hospitals for Maternity Care

Find hospitals that provide high-quality labor and delivery services for uncomplicated pregnancies.

Leaders

4 News Best Leaders

The 2025 Best Leaders rankings spotlights 25 exceptional individuals across public service, business, health care and education.

Car Advice

Best Vehicle Brands

What takes an automaker from good to great? Consistency.

By Alex Kwanten, Ryan Maxin and Nate Parsons

$44,961

That's the average cost of tuition and fees at a ranked private college this school year.

Learn more...

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Best Colleges

Expert advice, rankings and data to help you navigate your education journey and find the best college for you.

Where NHL Players Went to College

Half of these current and retired NHL stars attended schools in the Midwest.

By Sarah Wood

Choosing a Major in College

Select a discipline that reflects your interests and career goals.

By Anayat Durrani and Sarah Wood

Best Graduate Schools

Rankings, data and advice to help you connect your education to your dream career.

Young African businessman taking notes on the meeting.

Law School Letter of Continued Interest

A sincere, informative letter of continued interest can help you get accepted from a...

By Gabriel Kuris

20 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs

These online MBA programs charged between $201 and $394 per credit for out-of-state...

By LaMont Jones, Jr.

College student reading a book in the library

Best Colleges

4 News provides more than 100 different types of numerical rankings and lists to...

Multi-ethnic group of students studying in a library. Reading books, searching on internet, comparing...

Best Graduate Schools

4 News Best Graduate Schools rankings are designed to help prospective students...

A high school student sitting at her desk concentrating during a test in class.

Best High Schools

The 4 News rankings include data on nearly 25,000 public high schools in 50 states...

Young college student works on homework at home

Best Online Colleges

Find a trustworthy and flexible online college learning option that works best for you...

A teenager girl is at home at night, she is using laptop and learning

4 News Scholarship Finder

Looking for scholarships and other financial aid options? Use the Scholarship Finder...

Home brewer pouring yeast starter into stainless steel fermentation tank, preparing for controlled fermentation in craft beer brewing.

8 Surprising Online Degrees

Students can earn a degree online in professional flight or turfgrass science without leaving their home.

By Anayat Durrani and Ali Follman

Woman enjoying her online class, attentively taking notes as she stays engaged and focused. With a sense of curiosity and dedication, she embraces the opportunity to learn from home and improve her knowledge

Online Programs at Community Colleges

Online community college programs are a flexible and convenient option.

By Anayat Durrani

Young woman completes data certification course from home.

Top Online MBA: No Tests Required

Test scores don't need to be submitted at these highly ranked online programs, per 4 News data.

By Sarah Wood

Best Hospitals

Helping patients and families find the best healthcare for more than 30 years. Find the best hospital near you.

2025-2026 Hospital Specialty Rankings

See the top hospitals in 15 specialties of complex adult care in the 2025-2026 U.S...

By Anne Pusey Roberts

Hospitals for Heart & Vascular Surgery

These 10 hospitals outperformed all others in the 2025-2026 4 News Best Hospitals...

By Anne Pusey Roberts

Doctors

Find the doctor that is the right fit for you.

Doctor with digital tablet talking to female patient. Male practitioner giving advice to woman. They are sitting by table at hospital.

What to Know About Specialist Referrals

Navigating the specialist referral process doesn't have to be hard. Learn how medical...

By Christine Comizio, Annika Urban and Joseph Ebinger

Doctor and senior man discussing treatment in exam room

Getting Second Opinion

When you're facing a life-altering diagnosis, a second opinion can offer reassurance...

By Paul Wynn, Micah Yu and Gretel Schueller

Female caregiver holding hands of senior woman sitting on bed at home

Best OTC Medicine & Health Products

Lunchbox with quinoa salad with tomato and cucumber, blue berry and trail mix

Do Underdesk Ellipticals Really Work?

Want to exercise at your desk? Learn the benefits and drawbacks of under-desk ellipticals versus walking pads and whether they're a viable way to stay active while you work.

By Vanessa Caceres and Annika Urban

Young sporty woman with smart watch tying shoelaces

Exercises to Lower Cholesterol

All physical activity is good for your health, but these exercises may specifically help reduce cholesterol levels.

By Elaine K. Howley and Christine Comizio

Disability, caregiver and old woman in a wheelchair in a house helping a disabled elderly patient with alzheimers. Retirement, nurse and healthcare social worker holding hands and talking to a senior

Types of Long-Term Care Facilities

Learn about the different types of long-term care facilities and how they can help your loved one.

By Elaine K. Howley, Christine Comizio and Bill Buron

mid adult woman experiences physical pain symptoms with hand on chest

Signs of a Heart Attack in Women

Heart attacks can present differently in women. Learn the often-missed heart attack symptoms in women, which can include fatigue, shortness of breath and nausea. Understand your risk factors and essential prevention strategies to protect your heart health.

By Christine Comizio, Joseph Ebinger and Gretel Schueller

Money

Best Credit Cards

4 News evaluated hundreds of credit card offers and selected the best credit cards for every type of consumer.

Young couple moving in new house. They are happy and using laptop to buy stuff they need.

Balance Transfer Credit Cards

A balance transfer credit card allows you to move one or more account balances to the...

Young woman entering credit pin on the smartphone in the airport terminal.

Travel Credit Cards

Find the best travel credit cards to earn free flights, loyalty perks and more.

Mom and daughter sitting on couch together looking holding laptop and credit card.

Rewards Credit Cards

Rewards credit cards entice with points, miles or cash back, but make sure rewards...

Budget, accounting and businessman in his home with laptop and paperwork for financial planning, document or profit review. Black man entrepreneurship or home finance analysis of bills or bank loan

10 Best Savings Accounts of February 2026: Up to 5.00%

A savings account can be a good place to keep your money easily accessible while still earning interest. 4 News' experts analyzed banks across the country to find accounts with low minimums and high interest rates. The national average annual percentage yield for savings accounts is 0.45%.

Businessman Using Computer In Home Office

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts: Up to 4.57% — February 2026

Look to online-only banks to find the best high-interest savings accounts.

By Greg Garrison, Mark Evitt and Ray Frager

Smiling mature man using laptop while sitting against tiny house

Best Online Banks — February 2026

A bank with no brick-and-mortar locations could offer features that are right for you.

By Lou Carlozo, Mark Evitt and Whitney Blair Wyckoff

Smiling male colleagues looking at each other while sitting by desk in office

Best Checking Accounts — February 2026

A checking account keeps your money readily available for paying day-to-day expenses...

By Greg Garrison, Emily Roth and Mark Evitt

Photo of a mature woman sitting in the kitchen of her apartment, calculating her income tax.

Calculate Your Retirement Savings

Planning for retirement starts with a clear picture of your finances. This free calculator provides a personalized estimate of how long your savings and income can support your lifestyle.

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Mortgage Calculator

This handy tool crunches the numbers to figure out your monthly mortgage payments so...

Savings Calculator

This free savings calculator will help you project how you can build your savings over...

Young female work with financial papers at home count on calculator before paying taxes receipts online, planning budget glad to find chance for economy saving money, audit concepts.

Loan Calculator

Our easy-to-use loan calculator will help you estimate monthly payments to avoid...

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4 News Money Research and Surveys

4 News' money team conducts regular nationwide surveys and other data-driven...

Rearview shot of a young couple standing outside their new home stock photo

Best Mortgage Lenders

Learn about the home loan process and how to find the best mortgage lender with competitive rates.

By Erika Giovanetti and Whitney Blair Wyckoff

Young Asian man sitting at table, managing his finances and investment with online banking on laptop computer in living room at home. Technology makes life much easier

Best Personal Loan Lenders and Rates

A personal loan can help spread out the cost of big-ticket items, consolidate debt or allow you to make cozy home upgrades over time. Consider making budgeting more manageable with a personal loan.

By Erika Giovanetti and Whitney Blair Wyckoff

Best Private Student Loans

If federal student loans don't fit your needs, compare private student loan interest rates and lenders to find the right financing option for your college expenses.

By Erika Giovanetti, Gina Freeman and Tracy Stewart

Student Loan Refinance Lenders

Refinancing federal, private or both types of student loans can help you pay off your student debt faster and work toward other financial goals, but the pause in federal student loan payments may influence your decision to refinance.

By Bob Musinski , Whitney Blair Wyckoff and Erika Giovanetti

Handsome Real Estate Agent is giving key to the new apartment to happy young couple.

Best Mortgage Refinance Lenders

Find the best refinance lenders for your mortgage to get a lower interest rate or monthly payment.

By Erika Giovanetti and Gina Freeman

Young man surprising his wife or a girl with new a apartment.

Compare Current Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates are determined by factors that are out of your control and those that are related to your borrower profile and the type of loan.

By Jessica Merritt and Erika Giovanetti

Cars

Best Car Rankings

From rankings and reviews to cars for sale in your area – we've done all the car‑buying research so you don't have to.

Best SUV Rankings

Our SUV rankings are based on two types of information: published reviews from...

Best Truck Rankings

See our comprehensive list of the best pickup trucks.

Best Hybrid Rankings

See our list of the best hybrids based on our expert reviews and rankings.

Best EV Rankings

Find the best electric cars, SUVs and trucks based on our EV rankings.

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4 News Best Price Program

More than 300,000 car shoppers have purchased or leased a car through the 4 News Best Price Program. Shoppers have seen savings of $2,287 off MSRP across all vehicles.