Fox News Hourly Update: "First Lady Melania Trump Wants Americans to Unite"
Date: January 27, 2026
Host: FOX News Podcasts
Episode Overview
This episode centers on First Lady Melania Trump's appeal for national unity following heated protests and unrest in Minnesota after immigration enforcement raids and a controversial shooting. The update covers major national and international stories, including developments in Minnesota, ongoing protests in Iran, severe winter weather across the U.S., the Trump administration's latest immigration policies, and global events in Ukraine, North Korea, and South Korea.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. First Lady Melania Trump’s Call for Unity
[00:02–00:23]
- In the wake of ongoing protests and violence in Minnesota, Melania Trump gave a statement to FOX News, emphasizing peace and the need for Americans to come together.
- Notable Quote:
Melania Trump (paraphrased): “I’m against the violence. So if, please, if you protest, protest in peace. And we need to unify in these times.” [00:16–00:23]
- Notable Quote:
- The backdrop involves protests over immigration enforcement and a shooting incident, leading to heightened tensions.
2. Changes in Immigration Enforcement Leadership
[00:23–00:46]
- President Trump appointed Tom Holman as the new border czar, replacing Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino in Minnesota.
- The shift in leadership aligns with demands from Democratic leaders for less aggressive enforcement.
- Tom Holman, aligned with DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and adviser Stephen Miller, is expected to take a different approach from his predecessor.
3. Investigation of the Shooting of Alex Preddy
[00:46–01:09]
- DHS is reviewing body camera footage after Alex Preddy, an anti-ICE protester, was shot by immigration officers.
- Preliminary video suggests that a gun found on Preddy may have accidentally discharged after he was on the ground.
- The incident is under federal investigation, adding fuel to the Minnesota protests.
4. Developments in Iran: Protests and Crackdown
[01:09–01:26]
- Ongoing regime-change protests in Iran have resulted in a violent crackdown by security forces.
- Human Rights Update: More than 6,200 protesters are reported dead, per a U.S.-based human rights group.
5. Severe Winter Storms Across the U.S.
[01:26–01:47]
-
Eighteen states affected from New Mexico to Maine, with significant snow and ice, especially in the South.
-
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves provides an update on ongoing challenges:
- Quote:
“It hasn't gotten above freezing since sometime Saturday. And so that's really creating some challenges. We have a real opportunity today. We are anticipating that we may have a couple of three hours this afternoon in which we have both sunlight as well as temperatures slightly above freezing.” [01:31–01:47]
- Quote:
-
Ongoing power outages: 140,000 in Mississippi, more in Tennessee. Over 1,400 flights have been canceled.
6. Court Ruling on Immigration Protest Policing
[02:39–03:23]
- A federal appeals court sided with the Trump administration, allowing ICE agents to use pepper spray and tear gas on protesters in Minnesota.
- The decision overturns a lower court's restrictions after lawsuits claimed First Amendment violations linked to the shooting of Alex Preddy.
- The ACLU is pushing to reinstate the original restrictions.
7. Global Affairs Updates
Ukraine:
- Russia launched a heavy drone attack on Odessa; two dead and dozens, including a pregnant woman and children, wounded.
- President Zelenskyy urges the U.S. for faster peace talks [03:23].
North Korea:
- Another missile test escalates tensions with the U.S. amid ongoing nuclear talks.
South Korea Trade Tensions:
- President Trump increases tariffs on South Korean goods from 15% to 25%, citing legislative delays on a trade agreement [03:51–04:14].
- Chris Foster, FOX News: Provides context, noting South Korea's commitment to invest $350 billion in the U.S.
India & EU Trade Deal:
- Announced agreement reduces tariffs on each other’s goods.
8. U.S. Economic Snapshot
[04:14–04:36]
- Wall Street expected volatility: Dow futures down 300 points, Nasdaq rising.
- The Federal Reserve meeting is expected to conclude without a rate cut.
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
-
Melania Trump:
"I'm against the violence. So if, please, if you protest, protest in peace. And we need to unify in these times." [00:16–00:23] -
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves:
"It hasn't gotten above freezing since sometime Saturday. And so that's really creating some challenges. We have a real opportunity today." [01:31–01:47]
Useful Timestamps for Key Segments
- Melania Trump’s Call for Unity: 00:02–00:23
- Minnesota Protests & Shooting Investigation: 00:23–01:09
- Iran Regime Change Protest Update: 01:09–01:26
- Winter Storm Emergency (Mississippi): 01:26–01:47
- Appeals Court Ruling on ICE Tactics: 02:39–03:23
- Russia-Ukraine, North Korea, Trade Stories: 03:23–04:14
- Economic and Market Outlook: 04:14–04:36
Episode Tone & Style
The episode maintains a brisk, fact-focused delivery typical of FOX News hourly updates, emphasizing breaking news over extended debate. Direct statements from officials maintain formality, with an undercurrent of urgency about both national security and domestic tranquility.
Summary
This episode reflects a tense national mood, with First Lady Melania Trump’s plea for unity contrasting against details of violence, leadership changes, and ongoing investigations in Minnesota. Significant international stories emphasize global instability, while severe winter weather challenges millions across the U.S. The news update closes with economic uncertainty and a preview of related upcoming FOX News podcast content.
