(AP Photo)
WASHINGTON (AP) — The failure of last week’s high-stakes diplomatic meetings to resolve escalating tensions over Ukraine has put Russia, the United States and its European allies in uncharted post-Cold War territory, posing significant challenges for the main players to avoid an outright and potentially disastrous confrontation.
Some in GOP begin testing party's lockstep loyalty to Trump
Former President Donald Trump stepped up his election-year effort to dominate the Republican Party with a Saturday rally in Arizona.
apnews.com
Thune says Trump's election claims aren't productive if GOP wants to win in midterms
Senate Minority Whip John Thune says that Trump could help Republicans in the midterms, but that he should refrain from talking about the 2020 election.
CNN Unearths Audio Of Kevin McCarthy Saying Trump Admitted Responsibility For Riot
CNN's "K-File" resurfaced the top House Republican's comments to a California radio station just days after the Jan. 6 insurrection.
Biden backers 'not seeing the results' a year into his term
Just over a year ago, millions of energized young people, women, voters of color and independents joined forces to send Joe Biden to the White House.
apnews.com
Inside Trump's secretive endorsement operation
A small set of advisers, led by longtime counselor Susie Wiles, is vetting some of the candidates seeking the most valuable stamp of approval in GOP politics.
www.nbcnews.com
Trump officials interfered with the 2020 census beyond cutting it short, email shows
The email details the scope of the former administration's attempts to tamper with the count, including pressuring the Census Bureau to alter plans for protecting privacy and producing accurate data.
www.npr.org
Virginia's new AG Jason Miyares announces major investigations within hours of taking office
Virginia’s newly sworn-in AG Jason Miyares announced investigations into the Virginia Parole Board and Loudoun County Public Schools within hours of being sworn in while also reportedly gutting the Civil Rights division in his office.
Legal risks in sedition conspiracy case against Oath Keepers
The seditious conspiracy case against members and associates of the far-right Oath Keepers militia group marks the boldest attempt so far by the government to prosecute those who attacked the U.S.
apnews.com
Sinema reignites 2024 primary chatter amid filibuster fight
Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) is pouring fuel onto talk of a 2024 Democratic primary challenge by digging into her opposition to changing the filibuster. Sinema in a Friday spe…
thehill.comJan. 6 hearings 'are going to blow the roof off the House,' Raskin says
On a Thursday Zoom call with progressive activists, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said that the forthcoming hearings by the Jan. 6 Select Committee probing the riot at the U.S. Capitol staged by supporters of former President Donald Trump will "blow the roof off the House."
Youngkin signs executive orders banning critical race theory, lifting mask mandate in Virginia public schools
Virginia’s Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed 11 executive orders on his first day in office, including one lifting a mask mandate in public schools and another banning the teaching of cri…
thehill.com
DirecTV loss could cripple rightwing One America News
The largest satellite provider in the United States said late Friday it will drop One America News, a move that could financially cripple the rightwing TV network known for fueling conspiracy theories about the 2020 election.
Second gentleman Emhoff acts as public link to White House
As America’s first second gentleman, Doug Emhoff has visited 31 states to promote Biden administration policies and the coronavirus vaccine.
apnews.com
‘It’s sick’: Top Florida Democrat makes analogy between DeSantis and Hitler - Washington Examiner
A top Florida Democrat made a "sick" comparison between Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Nazi leader Adolf Hitler, the governor's spokeswoman said Friday.Christina Pushaw, the press secretary to DeSantis, shot back on Twitter after Nikki Fried, the Florida commissioner of agriculture and a...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
GOP Arizona governor candidate drops out hours before Trump rallies with endorsed rival - Washington Examiner
A Republican candidate for Arizona governor dropped out of the race hours before former President Donald Trump was set to speak at a rally with her top rival.Kimberly Yee released a statement Saturday saying she will instead run for reelection as state treasurer. TRUMP-ENDORSED CANDIDATE GETS...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
MLK's family rallies in Arizona to push for voting rights
“Our daughter has less rights around voting than she had when she was born,” Martin Luther King III said.
www.nbcnews.com
How sky-high inflation is evaporating Americans' savings, imposing 'cruelest tax' on the poor
Historical efforts to combat inflation have been accompanied by further anguish.
GOP’s McCarthy has little incentive to work with Jan. 6 panel
With his eye on the Speaker’s gavel, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) has almost no political incentive to cooperate with the special Jan. 6 committee.Doing so would infuriate former…
thehill.comA Bill Proposed a New Way to Teach History. It Got the History Wrong.
Amid a flurry of bills nationwide that seek to ban the teaching of critical race theory in schools, one such proposal in Virginia stood out. Tucked inside a bill introduced by Wren Williams, a Republican delegate, was a glaring error: Among the concepts that school boards would be required to...
‘A new and better day’: Glenn Youngkin offers sunny outlook in inaugural remarks as Virginia governor - Washington Examiner
Gov. Glenn Youngkin offered a vision of "hope and optimism" when he was sworn in as the 74th governor of Virginia on Saturday. While acknowledging the state has struggled with the fallout from inflation, COVID-19 lockdowns, remote learning, attacks on the police, and bitter political divisions...
www.washingtonexaminer.comBiden boxed in on Ukraine
The Biden administration is pushing to get Congress, Europe and Ukraine on the same page as it tries to deter Russia from invading Ukraine — all while knowing that the decisive factor will ultimately be the whims of Vladimir Putin.Why it matters: Officials from virtually all sides are warning...
One America News Network dropped by DirecTV, a major financial blow for far-right network
Satellite service DirecTV has said it plans to drop far-right channel One America News Network, which would be a big blow to the pro-Trump network.
www.usatoday.com
A massive volcano erupts near Tonga, causing tsunami waves as far as the West Coast
An undersea volcano erupted near the Pacific nation of Tonga, sending tsunami waves crashing across the shore there and around the Pacific, including a surges along the U.S. West Coast.
www.npr.orgFrustrated Democrats Call for 'Reset' Ahead of Midterm Elections
WASHINGTON — With the White House legislative agenda in shambles less than a year before the midterm elections, Democrats are sounding alarms that their party could face even deeper losses than anticipated without a major shift in strategy led by the president. The frustrations span the spectrum...
Black women look to make historic gains in 2022 midterm elections
A number of Black women candidates have become front-runners in seeking their party's nominations for statewide office, particularly in the South.
All hostages free, safe after hours-long standoff at Texas synagogue: governor
Hostages were released from a Texas synagogue after an hours-long standoff that began Saturday morning and extended into the night, according to Gov. Greg Abbott (R). “Prayers answe…
thehill.comThe Biden administration has failed its Covid test
The White House claims to follow the science. But it has missed chance after chance to limit infection – with disastrous results How many infections could have been prevented if the Biden administration had acted sooner? Composite: AFP/Getty/LA TImes/Rex/Shutterstock On 2 December, the White...
Now what? Their agenda mostly shelved, Democrats tout short list of accomplishments - Washington Examiner
Majority Leader Chuck Schumer told lawmakers the Senate would forgo a planned recess and remain in session next week to debate and vote on two partisan election bills and a major rule change to modify the long-standing filibuster. The party’s legislative agenda, however, is on hiatus. None of...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
DeSantis' Democrat challenger compares him to Hitler: 'In a lot of ways'
Florida agriculture commissioner and democratic gubernatorial candidate Nikki Fried compared the current governor to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler in an interview.
Proud Boys leader freed from Washington jail, served time for burning banner at Black church
A leader of the right-wing Proud Boys group, Enrique Tarrio, was released from jail on Friday after serving four months and a week for burning a Black Lives Matter banner at a historic African American church in Washington in December 2020.
Remaining hostages from Texas synagogue rescued, hostage-taker killed
The FBI hostage rescue team carried out the operation.
www.cbsnews.comNorth Korea says it test launched missiles from train
North Korea on Saturday said it test launched ballistic missiles from a train in what was seen as an apparent retaliation against fresh sanctions imposed by the Biden administration. The report by the North state media came a day after South Korea’s military said it detected the North firing...
Hostages safe after standoff inside Texas synagogue; captor dead
The hostage-taker was heard demanding the release of Aafia Siddiqui, the Pakistani neuroscientist suspected of having ties to al-Qaida.
www.politico.com
Republican Glenn Youngkin sworn in as Virginia 74th governor
Virginia's new governor, Glenn Youngkin, has pledged to restore trust in government and power to the people.
apnews.com
Four states declare states of emergency ahead of weekend snowstorm
Four states on the East Coast have declared a state of emergency ahead of a large snowstorm expected to hit Southern and Eastern states Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend.Virginia, North Carol…
thehill.com
Get away from shore - US and Japan warn on tsunami
Both countries advise people on the coast to move away from water after waves cross ocean from South Pacific.
www.bbc.com
Fears of Russian invasion of Ukraine rise despite US push for diplomacy
U.S. officials are raising alarm that Russian threats of war against Ukraine are spiking dangerously despite the conclusion of a week of diplomatic meetings aimed at avoiding the outbreak of open c…
thehill.com
Officer shoots man in custody after emergency room scuffle
Officials say a man in police custody was shot and killed in a North Carolina emergency room early Saturday after scuffling with an officer
Law enforcement skeptical of Biden's 'ill-timed' pivot to executive orders on police reform: 'Not sustainable'
FIRST ON FOX: Law enforcement organizations are expressing concern and skepticism of Biden's reported plan to resort to the use of executive orders on police reform, saying it is "not a sustainable" means of achieving long-term change, and a political attempt to distract from the...
75 million Americans under alert for winter storm, chilling temperatures
Some 75 million Americans in 33 states are under alert Saturday through Monday for severe winter weather.
Prince Andrew's lawyers say accuser may have false memories
Court documents say the Duke of York wants to question Virginia Giuffre's psychologist and husband.
www.bbc.com
North Korea tests railway-borne missile amid rising tension with U.S.
The country tested the rail-based system for the first time last September, saying it was designed as a potential counter-strike to any threatening forces.
www.nbcnews.com
Illinois governor cuts $90M check for reelection campaign
Self-funder JB Pritzker made the contribution just days before expected GOP challenger Richard Irvin is set to announce a bid to unseat the first-term Democrat.
www.politico.com
Katie Hobbs faces renewed questions about years-old employee termination case as she runs for Arizona governor | CNN Politics
Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs’ involvement in an employee termination seven years ago threatens to weaken her candidacy in a purple state Democrats are hoping to turn more blue in November.
www.cnn.com
Census challenges begin in states, cities and tribal nations across U.S.
Detroit’s mayor believes tens of thousands of residents in the majority-Black city were missed in the 2020 census.
www.nbcnews.com
Texas officials react to news of hostage situation in Colleyville synagogue
Lawmakers and officials across Texas are reacting to news of a hostage situation at a Jewish synagogue where three people are reportedly being held.
2 weeks in, does NYC Mayor Eric Adams still have swagger?
Eric Adams has stepped into the roles of cheerleader and crisis manager in his first weeks as New York City mayor while facing questions about early controversies of his own making.
apnews.com
Tsunami threat recedes from huge Pacific volcanic eruption
The tsunami threat around the Pacific from a huge undersea volcanic eruption has begun to recede, while the extent of damage to Tonga remains unclear.
apnews.com
Pete Buttigieg on parenthood: It "creates a different sense of urgency"
Buttigieg, who has already run for president, said parenthood "lights a fire."
www.cbsnews.com
2,800 flights canceled Sunday as winter storm hits East Coast | CNN Business
Airlines have so far canceled 2,800 flights Sunday as a powerful winter storm packing rain, sleet and snow is poised to hit the East Coast on the holiday weekend.
www.cnn.com
Harris takes fresh start to 2022
Vice President Kamala Harris is undergoing a fresh start in 2022. Since the new year began, Harris has been front and center, alongside President Biden in delivering speeches on the Jan. 6 ann…
thehill.com
Virginia Gov. Youngkin's day-one executive orders include investigating Loudoun County officials, CRT ban
Virginia’s newly sworn-in Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed 11 executive actions on his first day in office, including ending the use of Critical Race Theory in schools, investigating officials' alleged wrongdoing in Loudoun County, and allowing parents to decide if their children should...
Sen. Scott: Biden's Jim Crow comments evidence of 'failed leadership'
Sen. Tim Scott lambasted President Biden on Saturday in a video claiming the president's increasingly hostile language against his political opponents is a sign of weakness in leadership.
Netflix raises prices on plans in US, Canada
The company said Friday that prices are going up by $1 to $2, depending on the plan.
www.nbcnews.com
Analysis: Everyone knows who the good guys are. Who are the bad guys? | CNN Politics
President Joe Biden’s comments about the right and wrong side of history are getting more scrutiny days after his speech about voting rights. Here’s what to know about three historical and controversial figures he referenced in his speech.
www.cnn.com
HUNGER STRIKE DAY 2: Strikers begin to feel health consequences, remain committed
Hunger strikers begin to feel health consequences on the second day of their strike for voting rights legislation.
Hostages freed after stand-off at Texas synagogue
Four people are freed and an assailant dies as police bring the incident in Colleyville to an end.
www.bbc.com
Pennsylvania is a prime pickup opportunity for Senate Democrats, adding pressure to the Senate primary fight | CNN Politics
If Democrats are going to preserve their Senate majority after the 2022 midterm elections, the race to replace retiring Republican Sen. Pat Toomey represents a crucial offensive opportunity for a party desperate for a sliver of hope.
www.cnn.com
Southeast braces for snow and ice as "Saskatchewan screamer" moves across U.S.
At least 27 states stretching from Kansas to Georgia had winter weather advisories posted on Saturday morning.
www.cbsnews.com
Prince Andrew, accuser seek witnesses in sex abuse lawsuit
Lawyers for both sides file their initial requests for witnesses as part of the civil case filed in the United States.
Migrant caravan from Honduras stopped in Guatemala
Several hundred migrants who had departed from the Honduran city of San Pedro Sula in hopes of reaching the United States entered Guatemalan territory where they were intercepted by authorities who began talks on returning them to their homelands
Rafael Nadal, others a ‘bit tired' of Novak Djokovic Australia saga
“If he’s playing, finally, OK. If he’s not playing, the Australian Open will be a great Australian Open, with or without him. That’s my point of view," Rafael Nadal said of Djokovic.
www.nbcnews.com
Biden picks TV personality Star Jones to lead heritage board
President Joe Biden has selected lawyer and television personality Star Jones Lugo to lead a U.S. government agency that identifies and protects sites of historic significance to the U.S. in Eastern Europe.
Jovenel Moïse murder: Ex-senator arrested in Jamaica
John Joel Joseph has been arrested in Jamaica in connection with the death of Jovenel Moïse.
www.bbc.com
After talks make no progress, is Russian attack on Ukraine more likely?: Analysis
After a week of diplomatic talks ended with no progress, there are fears a Russian attack on Ukraine may become more likely.
Let the challenges begin! Time for contesting census is here
The U.S. Census Bureau has begun accepting challenges from states, cities and tribal nations that want to contest the results of the 2020 census.
apnews.com
Hostages safe after Texas synagogue standoff; captor dead
A man held hostages for more than 10 hours Saturday at a Texas synagogue where he could be heard ranting in a livestream and demanding the release of a Pakistani neuroscientist who was convicted of trying to kill U.S.
apnews.com
Dead wife's relatives seek part of Robert Durst's fortune
A quest for the fortune left behind by multimillionaire murderer Robert Durst is underway just days after his death
Clyburn says he’s worried about losing House, ‘losing this democracy’
House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) said in an interview that he is worried about losing the House in 2022 and “losing this democracy,” saying that is the reason why he is pus…
thehill.com
The AP Interview: Taliban pledge all girls in schools soon
The Taliban are promising to try to open all schools for girls across Afghanistan after the Afghan New Year, which starts in late March.
apnews.com
Ralph Emery, famed country music broadcaster, dies at 88
Ralph Emery, who became known as the dean of country music broadcasters over more than a half-century in both radio and television, has died. He was 88.
apnews.com
A 74-year-old woman spent 27 years in prison for a murder she didn’t commit. This week she was exonerated | CNN
A Tennessee woman who was wrongfully convicted of murdering her great-niece and spent 27 years in prison, was exonerated this week.
www.cnn.com
Woman killed after pushed onto NYC subway tracks in unprovoked attack, police say
A woman died after she was pushed onto the New York City subway tracks and hit by an oncoming train, officials said.
California day care workers arrested after baby is hospitalized with skull fracture
Rudie Megan Maldonado, 29, and Felicia Ann Ferra, 50, were booked on charges of child abuse and conspiracy.
www.nbcnews.com
Final valuation of Prince's estate pegged at $156.4 million
The six-year legal battle over Prince’s estate has ended. The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that parties to the pop superstar's estate have pegged the value at $156.4 million.
apnews.comMiami rapper Wavy Navy Pooh killed in ambush shooting
Miami rapper Wavy Navy Pooh was killed in an ambush shooting as he drove with two young children
White House: Russia prepping pretext for Ukraine invasion
The White House says U.S. intelligence officials have determined a Russian effort is underway to create a pretext for its troops to further invade Ukraine, and Moscow has already prepositioned operatives to conduct “a false-flag operation” in eastern Ukraine.
apnews.com
New Texas voting law snags US citizens, mail ballot requests
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — A sweeping new Texas voting law that Republicans muscled through the Legislature last year over dramatic protests is drawing fire again, even before some of the most contentious restrictions and changes kick in ahead of the state's first-in-the nation primary.
apnews.com
Trump holds first 2022 rally in Arizona as heated GOP Senate primary is underway
His endorsement is highly sought, but he hasn't picked a candidate to take on Democrat Mark Kelly yet.
www.cbsnews.com
Migrant's arrest under 'Operation Lone Star' ruled unconstitutional
A Travis County judge ruled a migrant's arrest under Texas' Operation Lone Star is unconstitutional.
South prepares for weekend threat of debilitating snow, ice
Forecasters' predictions of debilitating snow and ice as far south as Georgia have shoppers scouring store shelves for storm supplies and road crews trying to prevent a repeat of past wintertime debacles.
apnews.com
Oath Keepers leader makes 1st court appearance following arrest on seditious conspiracy charge
Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes made his first appearance before a judge Friday, a day after being arrested in connection with the Jan. 6 attack.
The fates of the 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach Trump
The 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach former President Trump after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol have increasingly become pariahs as their party moves in the opposite direction.&n…
thehill.com
Ohio Supreme Court invalidates GOP-approved congressional map 'infused with undue partisan bias'
The Ohio Supreme Court rejected a congressional map drawn by GOP lawmakers to favor Republicans, calling it a partisan gerrymander.
www.usatoday.com
DirecTV declines to renew OAN contract
DirecTV has declined to renew its contract with One America News Network (OAN), a far-right outlet favored by former President Trump. DirecTV, which is owned by AT&T Inc. and TPG Inc.…
thehill.com
Opinion | What Does the DOJ’s New Jan. 6 Sedition Indictment Mean for Trump?
There are certainly dots to connect between the White House and those charged with conspiracy, but is there reason to believe the department is actually closing in on the former president?
www.politico.com
Oath Keepers leader spewed anti-government hate for more than a decade. Alex Jones gave him the audience | CNN Politics
Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes has spewed violent rhetoric and whipped up unsubstantiated fears about secret government plots and imminent civil war for more than a decade with the help of another purveyor of extremism: conspiracy monger and internet powerhouse Alex Jones.
www.cnn.com
Executives personally signed off on Facebook-Google ad collusion plot, states claim
Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg and Google’s Sundar Pichai personally approved a deal that would see the social media giant gain an advantage in the search engine’s ad auctions, according to a group of …
thehill.com
What Democrats put in their voting rights megabill — and what got left out
The massive legislative package would make massive changes to how people vote as well as redistricting and campaign finance.
www.politico.com
U.S. prosecutors recommend dropping case against MIT professor over China ties -source
Prosecutors have recommended that the U.S. Justice Department drop charges against a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor accused of concealing his ties to China when seeking federal grant money, a person familiar with the matter said Friday.
Opinion | The Supreme Court Just Made an Incredible Power Grab
The ruling striking down Biden’s vaccine mandate threatens decades of statutory authority to let agencies write important regulations.
www.politico.comProsecutor: Texas attorney general violated open records law
A district attorney says Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton violated the state's open records laws by withholding or failing to retain his communications relating to his appearance at a pro-Donald Trump rally that preceded the deadly riot at the U.S. Capitol last year. The Austin-based Travis...
Decoding Donald Trump ahead of his speech in Arizona, according to an expert in his political rhetoric
What to listen for as former President Donald Trump returns to hosting political rallies, starting with a speech in Arizona.
Pence says federal election bills ‘offend the Founders’ intention that states conduct elections’ | CNN Politics
Former Vice President Mike Pence contrasted Democrats’ push for election legislation with his own actions at the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, in an op-ed published in The Washington Post on Friday.
www.cnn.com
Baltimore prosecutor asserts innocence after perjury indictment
Baltimore's top prosecutor, Marilyn Mosby, said on Friday she was innocent of wrongdoing, a day after she was indicted on federal charges of perjury and filing false loan applications related to the purchase of two Florida vacation homes.
US accuses Russia of 'fabricating a pretext' to invade Ukraine
The U.S. on Friday accused Russia of "fabricating a pretext" to invade neighboring Ukraine.
New voting law leading to high rejection of mail-in ballot applications in Texas | CNN Politics
Hundreds of mail-in ballot applications are being rejected in some of Texas’s largest counties because of the new voting law passed by the Republican-led state legislature last year, according to multiple election officials.
www.cnn.com
Russia demands US, NATO response next week on Ukraine
Russia has strongly repeated its demand that NATO doesn't expand eastward despite the rejection of that by the military alliance amid a Russian troop buildup near Ukraine
Ohio Supreme Court invalidates GOP-approved congressional map 'infused with undue partisan bias'
The Ohio Supreme Court rejected a congressional map drawn by GOP lawmakers to favor Republicans, calling it a partisan gerrymander.
U.S. intelligence agencies point to potential Russian invasion of Ukraine within a month's time
The new time frame signals how imminent the White House believes a Russian attack could be, and how urgent it is to negotiate a peaceful solution.
U.S. seeks up to 46 months prison for ex-Giuliani associate Fruman
U.S. prosecutors said on Friday that Igor Fruman, a one-time associate of Donald Trump's former personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani who helped collect damaging information about Joe Biden, should spend 37 to 46 months in prison after pleading guilty in an unrelated campaign finance case.
Senate HELP advances Califf nomination in close vote
The vote puts the Biden administration one step closer to installing a permanent leader atop the agency.
www.politico.com
YouTube temporarily suspends, demonetizes Dan Bongino’s channel
YouTube took action against conservative commentator Dan Bongino’s channel Friday, suspending it for violating the platform’s COVID-19 misinformation policy and demonetizing it for at least 30 days…
thehill.com
Senator publishes Fauci's unredacted financial disclosures, accuses him of being misleading
U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., provided the forms to Fox News, which his office obtained after filing an Office of Government Ethics request with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to get Fauci’s most recent disclosure.
Former acting Defense secretary meets with Jan. 6 committee
Christopher Miller was the top official at the Pentagon during the attack on the Capitol.
www.nbcnews.com
Judge sets tentative June date for Maxwell’s sentencing
A New York judge has set a tentative sentencing date for Ghislaine Maxwell, British socialite and associate of disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, following her conviction by a Manhattan jury late…
thehill.com
Northam pardons Virginia Sen. Joe Morrissey for relationship with underage law firm receptionist - Washington Examiner
Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam issued an eleventh-hour pardon to state Sen. Joe Morrissey, who was convicted in 2014 for a misdemeanor count over a relationship with a 17-year-old receptionist at his law firm who later became his wife. Morrissey, who like Northam is a Democrat, said he learned of...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Russia arrests 14 alleged members of REvil ransomware gang
The raids come amid a widespread cyberattack on Ukrainian government websites.
www.cbsnews.com
Russia arrests hacker in Colonial Pipeline attack, U.S. says
The arrests followed months of negotiations between the Biden administration and Russian officials around the ransomware attack and other cybersecurity concerns.
www.politico.com
Analysis: Putin presents a profound threat to peace in Europe as ‘drumbeat of war’ sounds on Russia-Ukraine border | CNN Politics
Europe has a long and bloody history of wars, of borders brutally contested, of nations and empires carving destructive furrows far from home. But a sad harvest of sorrow and loss after the Second World War was followed by decades of relative peace and prosperity, even during a Cold War that did...
www.cnn.com
Ohio Supreme Court battles partisan gerrymandering in redistricting process
Ohio’s Supreme Court justices threw out the state’s new congressional map as the ruling accuses state Republicans of gerrymandering district lines giving themselves a built-in advantage. NBC News’ Jane Timm explains how Ohio lawmakers now have 30 days to craft an acceptable map and how other...
www.nbcnews.com
Ukraine hacks add to worries of cyber conflict with Russia
Hackers have temporarily shut down dozens of Ukrainian government websites, causing no major damage but adding to simmering tensions while Russia amasses troops on the Ukrainian border.
apnews.com
GOP senator releases Fauci’s financial records, claims they show he ‘lied’ - Washington Examiner
Sen. Roger Marshall released financial records Friday he said were obtained from Dr. Anthony Fauci after the two clashed earlier this week at a hearing over access to such disclosures. The Kansas Republican claims the documents from the National Institutes of Health show Fauci, who is President...
www.washingtonexaminer.comNo charges for 151 Arizona votes vetted over fraud claims
A review of potential voter fraud cases in the 2020 general election in Arizona's second-largest county ended Friday with an announcement by prosecutors that none of the 151 cases they reviewed merited criminal charges. The findings in Pima County provide yet another official rebuttal of former...
Schumer delays voting rights votes until next week as Democrats face filibuster fight
Senate Republicans are set to block two voting rights bills, leading Democrats to consider filibuster changes to pass them.
Sinema speech turbocharges primary challenge buzz
The effort to draft Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego went into overdrive after the Arizona senator closed the door on weakening the filibuster.
www.politico.com
Philippines to acquire missile system from India for $375m
Philippines to be the first country to purchase missile system jointly developed by India and Russia to defend its seas.
Joe Biden’s disastrous 48 hours
It’s hard to imagine a worse 48-hour stretch for any first-year president than the one Joe Biden endured over the past two days.
thehill.com
Cremated remains of 89 people discovered in vacant Ohio church
A search of the Akron church was related to an investigation of a man alleged to have run fraudulent funeral businesses.
www.nbcnews.com
Residents urged to keep windows closed after fire at New Jersey chemical warehouse
Firefighters remained on the scene of the blaze early Saturday.
www.cbsnews.com
US officials believe Russia arrested hacker responsible for Colonial Pipeline attack | CNN Politics
The US believes that Russia’s domestic intelligence agency has arrested the hacker responsible for the May ransomware attack that forced a major US fuel pipeline to shut down for days, a senior Biden administration official told reporters Friday.
www.cnn.comNew report criticizes Biden's "mixed signals" on human rights
Human Rights Watch criticized President Biden and other leaders of democratic nations for sending "mixed signals" on human rights in its annual World Report published on Thursday, saying they "are not meeting the challenges before them."Why it matters: Though Biden pledged to put human rights at...
'This country is getting angry when they go to the supermarket' — GOP pollster says Democrats are going to be crushed in November
Discontent over skyrocketing inflation is the most important issue for voters heading into this year's midterm election, Frank Luntz told CNBC on Friday.
Policies Trump started and Biden has continued are allowing corrupt officials and cartels to cash in on migrants
Human smugglers and corrupt officials are cashing in on Biden's continuance of the "Remain in Mexico" policy and Title 42 expulsions.
Supreme Court to review case involving high school football coach who was fired for on-field prayers
The Supreme Court will hear remarks from a former high school football coach who is battling a school district’s ban on postgame prayers with his players that cost him his job.
President Biden announces new investment in nation's bridges
It will allocate nearly $27 billion in funding to repair and replace bridges.
Idaho Supreme Court hears arguments over redistricting
The court is expected to rule in coming weeks on whether the bipartisan commission will have to redraw the maps.
www.nbcnews.com
Shkreli ordered to return $64M, is barred from drug industry
A federal judge has ordered Martin Shkreli to return $64.6 million in profits reaped from inflating the price of a lifesaving drug and barred him from the pharmaceutical industry for the rest of his life.
apnews.comThird Republican Who Voted To Impeach Trump Now Retiring
Rep. John Katko (R-N.Y.) faced a challenge from a pro-Trump Republican.
Russia is preparing a ‘false flag’ event to invade Ukraine: US
The Kremlin says reports that Russia is preparing a provocation are ‘unfounded’, as tensions reach new heights.
What Joe Manchin told Steve Clemons at dinner
On this week’s show, Playbook author Ryan Lizza talks to Steve Clemons, Editor At Large of The Hill, D.C. operator and Joe Manchin’s confidant.
www.politico.com
Jim Banks says ‘long past time’ to kick Cheney and Kinzinger from House GOP - Washington Examiner
Republican Rep. Jim Banks advocated for Reps. Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger to be removed from the House Republican Conference for their participation in the select committee formed to investigate the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol. “It’s long past time for the Republican Party to kick Liz Cheney...
www.washingtonexaminer.comSen. Warren demands profit and rent figures from companies following Pandora Papers revelations
Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts is demanding answers from corporate landlords about their influence over the U.S. housing market amid a worsening nationwide shortage of affordable homes. On Thursday, the Democrat sent letters to Progress Residential, Invitation Homes and American Homes 4...
Opinion | Rep. Matt Gaetz’s ex-girlfriend testified to a grand jury. Why prosecutors are loving it.
Going after an ex-girlfriend is brilliant. It’s diabolical, but brilliant.
www.nbcnews.com
Kamala Harris advisers look for reset after difficult year for vice president: report
After a year of struggles and missteps, Vice President Kamala Harris’ team is planning a reset to get the seeming once heir apparent to President Biden back on track in 2022, according to a report.
Sanders, Warren and Baldwin urge Larry Fink to intervene in strike at coal company partially owned by BlackRock
Sens. Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Tammy Baldwin pressed BlackRock CEO Larry Fink to intervene in a coal miners' strike.
Avenatti claims prison officials only let him read Trump's 'The Art of the Deal'
Michael Avenatti has filed a claim against the Federal Bureau of Prisons for mistreatment, claiming he was only allowed to Trump's “The Art of the Deal" in prison.
Thieves in LA are looting freight trains filled with packages from UPS, FedEx and Amazon | CNN Business
Photos and videos showing piles of empty boxes littered alongside rail tracks in Los Angeles County, California have gone viral as shipping companies say they’ve seen a dramatic spike in railroad theft. Some of the boxes are packages from companies like UPS, Amazon and FedEx.
www.cnn.com
Russia-Ukraine: US warns of 'false-flag' operation
Russia is plotting to stage acts of provocation to create a pretext to invade Ukraine, a US official says.
www.bbc.com
Iran says 25-year China agreement enters implementation stage
The agreement was signed last year and includes economic, military and security cooperation.
Firefighter injured in blaze at chemical plant in Passaic, N.J.
The fire broke out at the Qualco chemical plant and was not under control early Saturday, officials said.
www.nbcnews.com
GOP Congressman John Katko, who voted to impeach Trump, announces retirement
Katko is the third House Republican who voted for impeachment to skip a reelection bid in 2022.
www.cbsnews.comFake electoral documents under new scrutiny as Trump prepares for Arizona visit
As former President Donald Trump prepares for a visit to Arizona, there has been renewed scrutiny of fake electoral vote certificates sent by Trump supporters in the aftermath of the 2020 election.
3 more Florida men charged in US Capitol attack
Officials say three more Florida men, one with connections to a rightwing extremist group, have been arrested on charges related to storming the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021
Former Obama White House adviser pleads guilty to scamming school he founded
Prosecutors say Seth Andrew helped himself to $218,000 from the charter network he used to work for.
www.nbcnews.com
Why Spanish-language voting ballots are critical for democracy, advocates say
Spanish and non-English ballots are not required across the nation.
Pence: "Tragic" Jan. 6 no reason to scrap filibuster
Former Vice President Mike Pence on Friday called the Jan. 6 Capitol riot an attempt to "overturn results of the presidential election that had been certified by all 50 states."Why it matters: Though the former vice president's op-ed in the Washington Post focuses on rebutting filibuster...
Dogecoin rallies after Elon Musk tweet
The cryptocurrency that started as a joke can be used for Tesla merchandise.
White House construction project ‘normal maintenance’ on fountain - Washington Examiner
The White House says nothing out of the ordinary is being built on its grounds.An explanation was given after social media was abuzz in recent days with images showing construction on the North Lawn at President Joe Biden's residence. “There is a normal maintenance construction project happening...
www.washingtonexaminer.comCourt puts hold on GOP inspection of county voting machines
An inspection of voting machines in a heavily Republican county in Pennsylvania as part of a GOP “investigation” into the 2020 presidential election was moments away from starting Friday until the state Supreme Court put it on hold. The high court decision came hours after a state judge...
Navient plans to cancel some student borrowers' loan debt. Who qualifies?
The settlement deal with dozens of states is worth about $1.85 billion. But student borrowers hoping for financial relief must fall under certain conditions.
www.nbcnews.com
Oath Keepers founder pleads not guilty to seditious conspiracy charge
The founder and leader of the Oath Keepers plead not guilty to charges of seditious conspiracy for his alleged role in the Jan. 6, 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol.
Rust shooting: Alec Baldwin turns phone over to investigators
Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was shot while filming the movie Rust, starring Mr Baldwin.
www.bbc.com
Ousted Myanmar leader Suu Kyi faces five new corruption charges
Five new charges against country’s ousted leader involve the government’s hire, purchase and maintenance of helicopter.
Michigan AG asks feds to investigate fake GOP electors
Michigan’s attorney general is asking federal prosecutors to open a criminal investigation into 16 Republicans who submitted false certificates stating they were the state’s presidential electors despite Joe Biden’s 154,000-vote victory in 2020.
apnews.comWho will control Congress? House departures set up uncertain future for chamber's balance
Dozens of lawmakers announce plans to retire from Congress next year. Control of the House could hinge on who else retires before the midterm elections.
Parents of girl who was raped and killed after kidnapping on way to school receive settlement - Washington Examiner
The parents of a 14-year-old girl who was raped, tortured, and killed after she was kidnapped on her way to school in 2017 have reached a settlement with several parties they say had a role in her death. Alianna DeFreeze's parents will both receive over $245,000 as part of the $1 million...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
DirecTV dumping One America News Network - Washington Examiner
One America News Network will soon disappear from DirecTV. The loss of the contract, which expires in April, is poised to strike a blow to the right-wing cable news network's ability to draw in revenue. The notification by the satellite TV provider was sent to OANN's owner, Herring Networks Inc...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Waukesha parade suspect to stand trial for murder
A Wisconsin court commissioner has ordered a Milwaukee man accused of plowing his SUV through a suburban Christmas parade, killing six people and injuring dozens more, to stand trial.
apnews.com
Djokovic's appeal of canceled visa moves to higher court
Live updates on Novak Djokovic after the Australian government revoked his visa for a second time, the latest twist in the ongoing saga over whether he will be allowed to compete in the Australian Open despite being unvaccinated for COVID-19.
apnews.com
GOP candidates focus on school board controversies to bolster campaigns
Virginia Gov.-elect Glenn Youngkin's November victory demonstrated the saliency of the education issue.
US man who faked death found alive in Glasgow
Nicholas Rossi, using the alias Arthur Knight, was arrested in hospital while being treated for Covid.
www.bbc.comUnionizing Starbucks, Inspired by Bernie Sanders
Maggie Carter, a Starbucks barista in Knoxville, Tennessee, is a warm and reassuring presence who says she is keen to “go the extra mile” for customers. She may also be a nightmare for Starbucks executives. As a union organizing campaign that began in Buffalo, New York, and produced the...
Former Obama adviser Axelrod: Biden's Atlanta speech rhetoric 'not very useful'
Former Obama senior adviser David Axelrod added his name to the list of prominent Democrats critical of President Biden’s racially charged speech linking opponents of his party’s federal election overhaul bill to segregationists and Confederates.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg makes recruiting truck drivers a priority as industry reaches a breaking point
According to the American Trucking Associations, the U.S. needs another 80,000 truckers.
www.cbsnews.comSome in GOP begin testing party's lockstep loyalty to Trump
Former President Donald Trump stepped up his election-year effort to dominate the Republican Party, holding a rally in Arizona on Saturday in which he castigated anyone who dares to question his lie that the 2020 presidential election was stolen, including the state’s GOP governor, Doug Ducey...
Space travel destroys red blood cells faster than on Earth
Tim Peake's red blood cells were studied alongside 13 other astronauts during his spell in space.
www.bbc.com
Teenage Burger King employee shot and killed in staged robbery gone wrong: Prosecution - Washington Examiner
The fatal drive-thru window shooting of a 16-year-old Burger King employee in Milwaukee resulted from a staged robbery gone wrong, according to prosecutors. Niesha Harris-Brazell was in on the plan that resulted in her death on Jan. 2, they argued. Antoine Edwards, 41, faces charges of felony...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
US judge reassigned after reversing sex assault conviction
Judge Robert Adrian said five months in prison was "plenty of punishment" for sexual assault.
www.bbc.com
Tsunami warning issued in Tonga after undersea volcano erupts
The eruption Saturday was the latest in a series from the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha’apai volcano.
www.nbcnews.com
Elephants dying from eating plastic waste in Sri Lankan dump
Conservationists and veterinarians are warning that plastic waste in an open landfill in eastern Sri Lanka is killing elephants, after two more were found dead over the weekend.
apnews.com
Tiffany Haddish arrested, accused of DUI in Georgia
The star was stopped as the vehicle pulled into the yard of a residence, officials said.
www.nbcnews.com
Tennis legend Chris Evert has been diagnosed with cancer | CNN
Tennis legend Chris Evert, who won 18 Grand Slam singles titles and three Grand Slam doubles titles in her career, said Friday she has been diagnosed with stage 1 ovarian cancer.
www.cnn.com
36 million families face January without a Child Tax Credit check: "There will be times I won't eat"
Cash payments of up to $300 per child are ending as inflation and winter take a toll. Many parents are worried.
www.cbsnews.com
Lead or step aside, senior Tory Tobias Ellwood tells Boris Johnson
Tobias Ellwood says "we need leadership" as MPs are inundated with messages about Downing Street parties.
www.bbc.com
New Mexico school employee sentenced for stealing 3,000 iPods meant for Native American children - Washington Examiner
A former employee of a New Mexico school district was sentenced to 18 months in prison after stealing and reselling Apple iPods meant for Native American children in poor communities. Kristy Stock will spend more than a year behind bars after she exploited her position at the Central...
www.washingtonexaminer.comRepublican Glenn Youngkin sworn in as Virginia 74th governor
Striking a tone of bipartisanship and optimism, Virginia’s new governor, Glenn Youngkin, pledged to “restore trust in government and to restore power to the people” after he was sworn in to office Saturday. As omicron infections fill hospitals with unvaccinated patients in Virginia and around...
Prince Andrew: Ruthless royals move to limit the damage
The Royal Family has tried to distance itself from the allegations facing Prince Andrew.
www.bbc.com
Dramatic video shows an officer fatally shoot a man who was driving a backhoe into homes and cars | CNN
Dramatic video released Thursday by the New Jersey Office of Attorney General shows the fatal shooting of a 20-year-old man when police officers tried to stop him as he was driving a construction backhoe into cars and homes in the city of Vineland last month.
www.cnn.com
5 players are unanimous choices for AP's NFL All-Pro Team
Five players, including dynamic pass catchers Cooper Kupp and Davante Adams, are unanimous choices for The Associated Press 2021 NFL All-Pro Team.
apnews.com
Expect more worrisome variants after omicron, scientists say
Scientists warn that omicron’s whirlwind spread across the globe practically ensures it won’t be the last worrisome coronavirus variant.
apnews.com
CDC warns loosely woven cloth masks are 'least protective' against COVID
Loosely woven cloth masks provide the least amount of protection from COVID, with KN95 and N95 respirators providing more protection, according to new CDC guidance.
Want to get omicron and just get it over with? Here's why that's a bad idea
Most of us will eventually get COVID but that's not an invitation to party with omicron. Here's why you might want to hang onto your mask and keep cautious a little longer.
www.npr.org
Clap, don't chant: China aims for 'Zero COVID' Olympics
Athletes will need to be vaccinated and tested daily at the Winter Olympics in Beijing next month. Clapping is OK to cheer on teammates — but not chanting.
apnews.com
Ready for an N95? Here's how to find a high-quality one that fits you well
If you don't feel like waiting to score a free N95 mask from the federal government, here's what to know about how to buy a good one — and avoid the fakes. Plus, tips on how to fit them and wear them.
www.npr.org
Front-line workers, families share heartache of caring for young children hospitalized with COVID
At Dayton Children's, an influx of COVID-19 patients are coming in for care.
Walensky faces CDC burnout as pandemic enters third year
Inside the agency, a race is taking place. Can it stop the spread of Covid-19 before its staff wears out from exhaustion?
www.politico.com
Passengers stuck at sea after Norwegian cancels Caribbean cruise mid voyage due to Covid-19
Passengers are stranded on the Gem until the ship returns to New York. A spokesperson said the ship will return “shortly” but did not provide a date.
www.nbcnews.com
Beijing reports first local Omicron case ahead of Winter Olympics
Omicron case in Beijing comes as cities across the country ratchet up viral vigilance before the Winter Olympics.
Calls grow for UK PM to resign over lockdown ‘parties’
Staff at Downing Street held ‘wine-time Fridays’ during coronavirus lockdowns, according to new revelations.
Californians asked not to use strained ERs for virus testing
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — With California bracing for an unprecedented number of hospitalizations amid a staggering surge in coronavirus infections, health officials pleaded with residents Friday to reserve emergency rooms for true emergencies and not run to them in a search for scarce virus tests.
apnews.com
Gillibrand vows to 'do better' after restaurant says she ignored mask mandate
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand told Fox News Digital that she would "do better" in the future after a restaurant owner in Latham, New York, posted a video of her "blowing past [the] manager" and ignoring signs requiring masks.
Cruise ships no longer have to abide by CDC safety standards for COVID-19 - Washington Examiner
Cruise lines will not be obliged to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as of Saturday despite the omicron surge.The CDC’s Conditional Sailing Order, a set of health and safety rules that cruise companies have had to abide by since October...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Okinawa, hub for US military bases in Japan, reports record number of COVID-19 infections
The prefecture of Okinawa, which is home to the majority of United States military facilities located in Japan, hit record COVID-19 transmission Saturday, Reuters reported.The p…
thehill.com
Biden team regroups after court loss on COVID shots-or-test
The White House is pushing ahead with efforts to prod people to get COVID-19 shots after the Supreme Court put a halt to the administration’s sweeping vaccinate-or-test plan for large employers.
apnews.comCDC warns loosely woven cloth masks are 'least protective' against COVID
Loosely woven cloth masks provide the least amount of protection from COVID, with KN95 and N95 respirators providing more protection, according to new CDC guidance.
COVID-19 updates: LA has highest daily death total since April
As the COVID-19 pandemic has swept the globe, more than 5.5 million people have died from the disease worldwide, including over 849,000 Americans.
Inside a Seattle-area hospital, the Covid grind wears on staff
Even in an area where 9 of 10 people ages 5 and older have received at least one Covid shot, the hard math of the omicron surge is straining hospitals and health care workers.
www.nbcnews.com
DeSantis says he regrets not speaking out ‘much louder’ against Trump’s recommendation to stay home | CNN Politics
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said one of his biggest regrets in office was not speaking out “much louder” in March 2020, when former President Donald Trump advised the nation to stay home to slow the fast-spreading coronavirus.
www.cnn.com
WHO recommends two new drugs to combat COVID-19 infection
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended two new drugs to combat COVID-19 infections.The first new drug that is recommended for critical COVID-19 cases is baricitinib, an oral drug that supp…
thehill.com
CDC updates mask guidance, says N95s offer 'highest protection'
The agency stopped short of recommending one type of mask over another, sticking with previous advice that the best mask is one worn correctly and consistently.
www.nbcnews.comYes, your company can still require you to be vaccinated despite the Supreme Court's ruling
The Supreme Court rejected President Biden's vaccine-or-test mandate for large businesses, but that doesn't mean your company can't enforce its own.
Federal testing website launches next week, 4 tests per home
The White House says the federal website where Americans can request free COVID-19 tests will begin accepting orders on Wednesday.
apnews.com
As Omicron fuels surge, U.S. students stage walkouts to protest in-person classes
Hundreds of students in Boston and Chicago walked out of classes on Friday in protests demanding a switch to remote learning as a surge in COVID-19 cases fueled by the Omicron variant disrupted efforts at returning to in-person education around the United States.
Appeals court could revive suits seeking tuition refunds over Covid closures
A majority of the D.C. Circuit panel seems inclined to reinstate suits against George Washington University and American University.
www.politico.com
Las Vegas offering teachers up to $2K bonus to remain at work amid COVID-19 surge
Las Vegas schools are offering full-time employees $2,000 to remain at work amid the ongoing winter surge in COVID-19 cases in the country.In a statement released Thursday, the Clark Coun…
thehill.com
Nurses hold vigil at White House, demanding safer COVID working conditions
Nurses held vigil at the White House Thursday night, demanding stronger government and hospital protections from COVID.
Latest COVID updates: COVAX reaches milestone of 1 billion doses
COVID news from January 15: UN-backed vaccine-sharing programme has delivered one billion doses to 144 nations.
Arizona at risk of losing relief funds over anti-mandate rules, Biden administration warns
The Treasury Department told Arizona it has 60 days to remove anti-masking provisions for school districts.
www.nbcnews.com
CDC updates guidance on the best masks to protect against COVID-19
The CDC updated its website to say N95 and KN95 masks offer higher levels of protection than cloth masks, although it stopped short of recommending them for everyone.
www.cbsnews.com
Covid testing company with 300 pop-up sites across U.S. faces multiple probes
The founder of the company, Center for Covid Control, previously opened an axe-throwing lounge and a donut shop.
www.nbcnews.com
Garbage and recyclables pile up as omicron takes its toll
The omicron variant is sickening so many sanitation workers around the U.S. that some cities have had to delay or suspend garbage and recycling pickup, angering residents shocked that governments can’t perform this most basic of functions.
apnews.com
Businesses face conflicting state and local rules on vaccine mandates after SCOTUS ruling
Companies that used mandates to achieve relatively high vaccination rates may decide they have accomplished enough.
www.cbsnews.com
Among Dominican Americans, a high response to Covid-19 measures
It provides insight into how one of the largest and fastest-growing Latino subgroups "have responded to the directives in place to deal with the virus."
www.nbcnews.com
CDC encourages more Americans to consider N95 masks
U.S. health officials have updated their mask guidance, encouraging more Americans to wear N95 or KN95 masks to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
apnews.com
In vaccination battles, pro athletes become proxy players
Athletes have been put at center court of arguments over COVID vaccines. The NFL's Aaron Rodgers, the NBA's Kyrie Irving, and tennis's Novak Djokovic, have each become cultural touchstones in the cultural controversy.
apnews.com
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