CNN 5 Things

Iranian Leaders Killed, TSA Chaos, Call a Boomer and more

5 snips
Mar 18, 2026
A top counterterrorism resignation tied to the Iran conflict and regional military movements. Ongoing Homeland Security turmoil and a staffing crisis leaving airports with long security lines. Arizona launches a landmark legal fight over a prediction market. A daytime meteor creates a loud boom across the Midwest. A refurbished payphone project aims to connect generations and reduce loneliness.
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INSIGHT

High-Level Resignation Exposes MAGA Split Over Iran

  • Joe Kent quit as National Counterterrorism Center director over the Iran war, saying Iran posed no imminent threat.
  • Kate Baldwin notes Kent is controversial and accused of conspiracy theories and antisemitism, framing his resignation as the highest-ranking Trump administration dissent so far.
INSIGHT

Shutdown Forces TSA To Work Without Pay

  • TSA staffing shortages amid a partial shutdown have caused mass call-outs and long security lines at major airports.
  • Houston saw over 50% call-outs; Atlanta and New Orleans over 30%, with some officers sleeping at airports to avoid travel costs.
INSIGHT

Arizona Sues Kalshi Over Election Betting

  • Arizona filed the first U.S. criminal charges against prediction market Kalshi, alleging illegal gambling for election bets.
  • Kalshi handled millions (e.g., $10M on the Texas Senate race) and calls the case 'paper thin,' arguing federal regulation applies.
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