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Local 5 - weareiowa.com | Des Moines Local News & Weather | Des Moines, Iowa

Elections

Many states are still counting votes. That’s normal.

Money

Yes, the average Thanksgiving meal this year is more affordable than last year

Cheaper turkey prices nationwide have helped the overall cost of a Thanksgiving dinner come down from a record high in 2022.
Donald Trump

What we can VERIFY about Trump’s plan to close the U.S. Department of Education

Donald Trump has pledged to “send all education work and needs back to the States.” Here’s what we know about his proposal to transform the education system.
Education

What we can VERIFY about Trump’s plan to close the U.S. Department of Education

Donald Trump cannot end birthright citizenship by executive order. Amending the Constitution would require congressional action and ratification by the states.
Medicare

No, traditional Medicare doesn’t offer flex cards

Flex cards are only offered by some private Medicare Advantage plans and only cover certain expenses.
Health

Yes, some black plastics in kitchen utensils, toys are made from recycled electronics

Items made from black plastics, like spatulas, toys and take-out containers, may contain harmful chemicals from recycled electronics. We VERIFY data on health risks.
Elections

No, Matt Gaetz is not guaranteed to get his House seat back if he isn’t confirmed as AG

Matt Gaetz resigned from Congress, leaving his House seat open. Here's why he can't automatically get it back if the Senate doesn’t confirm him as attorney general.
Weather

VERIFYING 5 claims about staying warm and protecting your home from the cold

VERIFY looked into five common claims about staying warm and protecting your home against freezing temperatures.
Extreme Weather

Winter driving safety: 5 Fast Facts

What should you do if your car starts to skid? Should you use sand or kitty litter to create traction? Here are five VERIFIED winter driving safety tips.
Weather

Do not plug space heaters into extension cords or power strips

If you’re using a space heater to stay warm, plug it directly into a wall outlet. Extension cords or power strips can overheat, and potentially start a fire.
Health

Debunking 3 common cold myths

Despite popular belief, cold or rainy weather cannot make a person sick. VERIFY asked the experts to weigh in on this old wives’ tale, and more common cold myths.
Winter Guide

No, it is not safe to use an oven to heat your home

Ovens aren’t designed to heat your home. They also pose risks of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning if they are left on for prolonged periods of time.