(AP Photo/Susan Walsh)
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden expressed alarm at a “backward slide” of democracy around the globe on Thursday, calling on fellow world leaders to work with him to bolster democratic institutions as his administration grows increasingly concerned about China’s and Russia’s push for global influence.
NY attorney general seeks Trump's testimony in civil probe
New York’s attorney general is seeking former President Donald Trump’s testimony in an ongoing civil investigation into his business practices, a person familiar with the matter said.
apnews.com
Court rejects Trump's efforts to keep records from 1/6 panel
A federal appeals court has ruled against an effort by former President Donald Trump to shield documents from the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 insurrection at the Capitol.
apnews.com
Senate passes bipartisan bill to fast-track debt ceiling hike, avoid default
The legislation creates a convoluted process to suspend the filibuster and perform a simple task.
www.nbcnews.com
House goes after Trump with bill to curb presidential abuses of power
The House passed a sweeping legislative package on Thursday designed to guard against abuses of presidential powers as part of a package of reforms put forth by Democrats in the wake of former Pres…
thehill.com
Biden assures Ukraine's leader of US support to deter Russia
President Joe Biden has reached out to Ukraine’s leader as the United States moves to take a more direct role in diplomacy between that country and Russia.
apnews.com
Biden administration asks public for help stopping family separation in the future | CNN Politics
The Department of Homeland Security is asking the public for help to stop the federal government from ever again using family separation as a tactic against undocumented migrants, issuing an open request for recommendations.
www.cnn.com
Graham warns GOP about Trump’s wrath on debt vote
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) offered a forceful warning to Republican colleagues during a private lunch on Wednesday, saying former President Trump will come down hard on any GOP senators who vote …
thehill.com
Judge clears way for legal challenge to Georgia’s restrictive voting law
A federal judge on Thursday rejected a request to dismiss a legal challenge to Georgia’s restrictive GOP-crafted voting law, clearing the way for the suit to proceed.The lawsuit, filed this spring …
thehill.com
How redistricting is killing competition for House seats
Republicans in the fast-growing suburbs north of Dallas had a scare last year. Democrat Joe Biden came within a single percentage point of then-President Donald Trump in the congressional district represented by Republican Van Taylor.
apnews.com
U.S. House passes oversight bill reining in presidency, unlikely to pass Senate
The Democratic-controlled U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday passed a sweeping government oversight bill aimed at reining in the powers of the presidency, but the measure faces little chance of passing the narrowly-divided Senate.
New York Attorney General Letitia James ends bid for governor as Trump investigation ramps up
"I have come to the conclusion that I must continue my work as attorney general," James said in a statement.
www.cbsnews.com
Georgia Republicans purge Black Democrats from county election boards
The Spalding board’s new chairman has endorsed former president Donald Trump’s false stolen-election claims on social media.
www.nbcnews.com
Democrat Florida gov candidate Fried to stand trial for ethics charges
A Florida Democrat running against incumbent Republican Governor Ron DeSantis is set to stand trial for ethics charges.
Texas abortion law's enforcement mechanism not valid, judge rules
Planned Parenthood celebrated the ruling but said abortion services still remain "virtually inaccessible" in Texas.
www.cbsnews.com
Biden calls preserving global democracy 'challenge of our time' at virtual summit
“This is an urgent matter,” the president said in remarks to open the Summit for Democracy. “The data we’re seeing is largely pointing in the wrong direction.”
www.nbcnews.comOpinion | History Shows That Biden Is Handling Putin the Right Way
The U.S. has a well-established crisis management playbook for dealing with Putin's provocations. Luckily, Biden is following it.
Amid Russia tensions, Biden reaffirms support for Ukraine in call with Zelenskyy
The call came two days after Biden told Putin that the U.S. would pursue "strong economic measures" and increase military aid to allies in the region should Russia invade.
www.nbcnews.com
Senate passes bill to avoid filibuster on debt ceiling hike
The Senate on Thursday voted to approve a one-time exemption to the filibuster on raising the debt ceiling, capping off a months-long fight over the nation’s borrowing limit. Senators voted 59…
thehill.comCourt rules Trump cannot block release of documents to Capitol attack panel
The former president is expected to appeal the ruling to the supreme court Donald Trump has lost a case to shield documents from the House committee investigating the Capitol attacks. Photograph: Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images Donald Trump suffered a major defeat on Thursday when a federal appeals...
China guilty of genocide, crimes against humanity against Uyghurs, watchdog finds
“The world needs to know about what Uyghurs are facing today,” said Muetter Iliqud, 24, who spoke at two public sessions of a special tribunal.
www.nbcnews.com
AP-NORC Poll: Income is up, but Americans focus on inflation
Americans’ overall income has accelerated since the pandemic, but so has inflation — and a new poll finds that far more people are noticing the higher prices than the pay gains.
apnews.comBiden administration's tightrope act on tech
U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo made waves in Washington when she criticized Europe's planned regulations of tech companies, despite the White House's interests in reining in the sector at home.Why it matters: The incident reveals the balancing act the Biden administration performs as it...
Senate passes debt limit fast-track plan as lawmakers race to prevent default | CNN Politics
The Senate voted on Thursday to pass a bill to create a fast-track process that will allow Democrats to raise the federal debt limit without votes from Republicans, a crucial next step as lawmakers race the clock to avert a catastrophic debt default. The vote was 59-35.
www.cnn.com
Feds bust 'modern-day slavery' ring amid new immigration enforcement effort
At least 100 immigrant workers were freed from conditions in which at least two died, another was repeatedly raped, and others were kidnapped and threatened with death.
www.nbcnews.comBiden assures Ukraine's leader of US support to deter Russia
President Joe Biden has reached out to Ukraine’s leader as the United States moves to take a more direct role in diplomacy between that country and Russia.
apnews.comHow to stop inflation? Here are steps the Biden administration can take to try to help
President Joe Biden's options for slowing inflation are limited as consumer prices surge to their highest level in decades, economists say.
US-led coalition against IS ends combat mission in Iraq
Troops will remain to "advise, assist and enable" Iraqi security forces to stop a resurgence of IS.
www.bbc.com
House to vote next week on Islamophobia bill, holding Meadows in contempt
The House is poised to vote next week on a bill authored by Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) to create a new office within the State Department tasked with combating Islamophobia, and will also vote on a …
thehill.com
'Democracy needs champions': Biden calls on world to fight authoritarianism, corruption at inaugural summit
Biden urged foreign leaders to begin a 'year of action' to strengthen democracy and recommitted to voting rights legislation now stalled in Congress.
www.usatoday.com
Poll: Americans agree with rejecting 'political hostility,' but think divisions will rise
The poll, conducted by Hidden Common Ground in partnership with USA TODAY, also found almost half of Americans value different political perspectives.
www.usatoday.com
Appeals court rejects Trump effort to deny records to Jan. 6 panel
A federal appeals court on Thursday denied former President Trump’s effort to block the National Archives from turning over his White House’s records to the House committee investi…
thehill.com
Senate passes legislation paving way for Congress to increase debt limit
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said he's optimistic "catastrophic default" will be avoided.
www.cbsnews.comLawyer: Capitol Police whistleblowers face retaliation
A letter to Congress says Capitol Police intelligence analysts warned leadership of the impending Jan. 6 attack. They were ignored then and are now being targeted for speaking out.
House passes bill to limit presidential power crafted in response to Trump actions - Washington Examiner
A Democratic bill to rein in presidential authority designed in response to actions or threats by former President Donald Trump passed the House on Thursday but is destined to die in the Senate. Sweeping reforms in the bill, dubbed the Protecting Our Democracy Act, would adjust requirements and...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Ghislaine Maxwell: Jury sent home for day after lawyer falls sick
The lawyer - who has a non-Covid-related illness - is needed for questioning of an upcoming witness.
www.bbc.com
Media exec sentenced in U.S. college scandal, another parent strikes plea deal
A former media executive was sentenced on Thursday to six weeks in prison plus a year of home confinement for participating in a vast U.S. college admissions fraud scheme by paying $525,000 to secure her children's admission to top universities as fake athletes.
Ernst slams 'Bare Shelves Biden' for pushing massive spending bill as Americans struggle to buy holiday gifts
FIRST ON FOX: Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, is leading a group of GOP senators in a speech Thursday blasting the Biden administration for rising prices nationwide, causing Americans to struggle to complete their shopping lists during the holiday season.
The Senate advances debt-ceiling measure that lets Democrats eventually dodge economic disaster all on their own
Republicans want to preserve the filibuster without destroying the economy. So 14 GOP senators voted to lift the filibuster, just this once.
White House denies pressuring Ukraine to cede land to Russia - Washington Examiner
The Biden administration strenuously denied reports that it has urged Ukraine to cede territory to Russia as the number of troops grows along its eastern border.“That is absolutely false,” White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters on Thursday. Joe Biden spoke by phone with Ukraine...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
The AP Interview: General says US troops to remain in Iraq
The top U.S. commander for the Middle East says the U.S. will keep the current 2,500 troops in Iraq for the foreseeable future, despite their shift to a non-combat role, and they will still provide air support and other military support for Iraq’s continuing fight against the Islamic State.
apnews.com
Hospital and doctor groups sue Biden officials over surprise billing rules
The American Medical Association (AMA) and American Hospital Association on Thursday sued the Biden administration over regulations to prevent patients from getting stuck with “surprise” medical bi…
thehill.com
53 migrants dead, 54 injured in truck crash in south Mexico
Mexican authorities say at least 53 people are dead and dozens more injured after a cargo truck carrying people who appeared to be Central American migrants rolled over and crashed in southern Mexico.
apnews.com
Ed Markey accuses Pentagon of manufacturing ‘artificial fear’ of ‘midget’ China’s nuclear arsenal - Washington Examiner
Defense Department officials and industry executives are working “to just create artificial fear” of China’s growing nuclear arsenal, according to a senior Senate Democrat who expressed irritation at the phenomenon.“I always hate it when they make out the Chinese or the Russians to be 10 feet...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Appeals court rejects Trump’s bid to keep January 6 documents from House committee | CNN Politics
A federal appeals court Thursday ruled against former President Donald Trump in his effort to block his White House records from being released to the House select committee investigating January 6.
www.cnn.com
As Biden promotes democracy abroad, the home front should worry him the most
First Read is your briefing from "Meet the Press" and the NBC Political Unit on the day's most important political stories and why they matter.
www.nbcnews.com
RSC Chair Banks introduces bill to reform H-1B visa program, protect American tech workers
FIRST ON FOX: The head of the Republican Study Committee is introducing a bill to reform the controversial H-1B visa program to stop what critics say is the use of the program by Big Tech companies to undercut the wages of American tech workers.
New York City gives noncitizens right to vote in local elections | CNN Politics
New York City on Thursday became the largest municipality in the US to allow noncitizens to vote in local elections
www.cnn.comDemocrats have 19 days to pass Biden's big bill before parents get cut off from child tax credit checks in January, IRS says
Lingering issues over the scope of Biden's $2 trillion spending plan could force Democrats to work through Christmas to preserve the child tax credit.
Pence navigates Trump's shadow during New Hampshire visit
Former Vice President Mike Pence visited early-voting New Hampshire, where he delivered a speech railing against President Joe Biden’s handling of the economy, schmoozed with local activists, dropped by holiday parties, shopped at a local bakery and raised money for state Republicans.
apnews.com
Lack of local police participation could cause FBI's use-of-force database to shut down, GAO says
Lack of police participation in the FBI's use-of-force database could cause it to shut down, the General Accountability Office said.
Nicaragua cuts diplomatic ties with Taiwan to align with Beijing
Taiwan expresses ‘great regret’ at move, which leaves it having formal ties with only 14 countries.
Bill Gates: 2021 has been a year of ‘great personal sadness’
Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates said this past year has been one of “great personal sadness” following a divorce from his ex-wife and foundation partner Melinda French Gates. T…
thehill.com
Opinion | Finally, a Sort of Real Number for Donald Trump’s Entirely Subjective Worth
And you don’t even have to take Trump’s word for it.
www.politico.com
Dan Crenshaw digs in on GOP ‘grifters’ convincing voters of conservative betrayal - Washington Examiner
Texas Rep. Dan Crenshaw is not letting up on his candid criticism of fellow Republicans who he thinks are “grifters” who lie for personal gain without delivering conservative accomplishments. “They know that the quickest way to a conservative’s heart is not necessarily to bash Democrats,”...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Families forced to move after Navy fuel contaminates tap water
"How long have I been poisoning myself and my kids," one mother asked.
www.cbsnews.com
Saudi activist sues 3 former U.S. officials over hacking
A prominent political activist who pushed to end a ban on women driving in Saudi Arabia is suing three former U.S. intelligence and military officials she says helped hack her cellphone so a foreign government could spy on her before she was imprisoned and tortured.
apnews.com
Texas man held at gunpoint by federal agent seeks Supreme Court intervention
"Are federal officials somehow different than state and local officials?" said Anya Bidwell, a lawyer with the Institute for Justice.
www.cbsnews.com
Schiff confronted about Russia investigation and Hunter Biden on House floor - Washington Examiner
House Intelligence Committee Chairman Adam Schiff and a top Republican sparred on the House floor about the investigation Schiff led into Russian interference in the 2016 election and Hunter Biden’s questionable business dealings. The spat came during floor debate Thursday ahead of a vote on the...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Mom accused of 'instructing' teen daughter to punch player during basketball game
The teenager is the daughter of former Chicago Bulls player Corey Benjamin.
www.nbcnews.com‘This call never happened’: Ex-D.C. Guard leaders push back as internal Army report on Jan. 6 emerges
The report’s narrative is surfacing days after POLITICO first revealed a memo from a former top Guard official accusing two generals of lying to Congress.
Biden to appear on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on Friday
President Biden is on his way to late night television.Biden will make his first appearance on late night television since taking office, on NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy …
thehill.com
Dole foundation cuts ties with organizer helping with funeral for alleged role in January 6 | CNN Politics
The Elizabeth Dole Foundation confirms it has cut ties with event organizer Tim Unes who was working on late Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole’s funeral arrangements because of Unes’ alleged role in helping to organize the January 6 “Stop the Steal” rally, which ultimately led to the storming of...
www.cnn.com
School district faces two $100M suits after Oxford shootings
Two lawsuits seeking $100 million each have been filed against a Michigan school district, its superintendent and others after four students were fatally shot and others wounded at Oxford High School.
apnews.com
Harris uses democracy summit to call for passage of voting rights laws
Vice President Harris on Thursday used the White House’s Summit for Democracy to call on Congress to pass voting rights legislation, decrying state-level laws that the administration views as…
thehill.com
Biden told team to 'be prepared' for failed nuclear talks with Iran: Psaki
President Biden has told his national security team to "be prepared" if diplomatic talks fail to stymie Iran from developing its nuclear capabilities.
Beijing Winter Olympics boycott is insignificant, says Macron
The French president says some Western countries' refusal to send officials has no useful outcome.
www.bbc.com
Justice Department weighing first big changes to FARA in decades
Nearly two dozen leaders of some of the country’s largest retailers pressed congressional leaders today to put the INFORM Consumers Act up for a vote in their respective chambers.
www.politico.com
Ex-media CEO sentenced to prison in college admissions scam
A former media company CEO who authorities say paid more than $500,000 to get her two children into elite universities has been sentenced to prison time
Myanmar’s Min Aung Hlaing accused of crimes against humanity
ICC complaint says coup leader is ‘criminally responsible’ for the security forces under his command committing crimes.
Biden’s cash fuels DeSantis’ budget wishlist
The governor wants to use $3.5 billion from Biden's American Rescue Plan to help fund his budget.
www.politico.comNew York attorney general seeks Trump testimony in fraud probe - source
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -New York's attorney general is seeking to question former U.S. President Donald Trump under oath as part of the state's civil fraud investigation of his namesake business, a person familiar with the matter said on Thursday. The attorney general, Letitia James, wants Trump...
Manchin says he wouldn't defy parliamentarian on immigration
Pivotal Sen. Joe Manchin says he'd vote to uphold the Senate parliamentarian's decision if she rules that immigration or other provisions should fall from Democrats’ huge social and environment bill.
apnews.comChairwoman of Fort Worth school district ‘racial equity committee’ resigns after doxxing parents - Washington Examiner
A member of the Fort Worth Independent School District’s racial equity committee has resigned after she posted the personal contact information of several parents who had pushed back against the school board’s agenda on Facebook.Norma Garcia-Lopez resigned from her post as co-chairwoman of the...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Senate approves Rep. Clyburn's daughter to head federal commission
The senate narrowly confirmed President Biden's nomination of Rep. James Clyburn's daughter to a federal commission aimed at easing economic hardship in the southeastern United States.
Catholic diocese says gay and trans people can't be baptized or receive Communion
They must refrain from sacraments until they have "repented," the diocese in Michigan says. Critics say it's another example of defiance of the pope by “culture warrior bishops” in the U.S.
www.nbcnews.com
No letup in Biden polling doldrums
President Biden's standing with Americans remains in negative territory heading into the final few weeks of 2021.
Police department investigated over alleged racist texts, discriminatory conduct
An independent review of Torrance Police Department will seek "to identify and correct potential systemic failures in the department’s policies and practices."
EU countries agree to take in 40,000 Afghan refugees
Group of 15 EU member states agree to resettle Afghans, with Germany accepting bulk of new arrivals, commissioner says.
China committed genocide against Uighur Muslims, tribunal rules
The UK-based unofficial tribunal says Chinese government’s alleged forced birth control of Uighurs amounts to genocide.
Fox News lights up new Christmas tree after original set on fire - Washington Examiner
Fox News Media replaced its "All-American Christmas Tree" and held an on-air lighting ceremony Thursday night after the previous tree in New York City's Fox Square was set on fire early Wednesday morning. CHRISTMAS TREE OUTSIDE FOX HEADQUARTERS ENGULFED IN FLAMES "Even though the arsonist is...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
U.S. committed to Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity -White House
U.S. President Joe Biden, in a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Thursday, spoke about the United States' "unwavering" commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and said diplomacy was the best way to resolve conflict with Russia.
Yellen to lawmakers: Ignore the GOP-pushed analysis of Biden’s social spending bill
The Treasury secretary, in a memo to lawmakers, insists the president won’t extend Build Back Better programs unless they’re paid for.
www.politico.com
Liz Cheney highlights cooperation with Jan. 6 panel amid wave of roadblocks - Washington Examiner
Wyoming Republican Rep. Liz Cheney, the vice chairwoman of the House select committee formed to investigate the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, assured the public that the committee is getting information with hundreds of cooperating witnesses amid a wave of high-profile witnesses refusing to...
www.washingtonexaminer.comWhere the Russians are
www.politico.com
Drivers playing video games? US is looking into Tesla case
Last August, Vince Patton was watching a YouTube video of a Tesla owner who had made a startling observation: Tesla drivers could now play a video game on their car’s touch-screen dashboard — while the vehicle is moving.
apnews.com
Downing Street parties: What Covid rules were broken?
Police issued 126 fines during the Partygate investigation, including to Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak.
www.bbc.com
Alec Baldwin shares open letter from Rust crew members rejecting claims of ‘chaotic’ set - Washington Examiner
Alec Baldwin shared an open letter from 25 members of the production crew of the movie Rust rejecting reports of there being problems on set before the fatal shooting in October. The letter, posted on Baldwin's Instagram, said the crew had not been encouraged by the producers to speak out but...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
UN political chief urges Taliban to be inclusive
The U.N. political chief says she had “frank and useful” discussions with a wide range of Afghans including senior Taliban officials during a three-day visit
‘YOU KNOW WHAT I’LL DO’: New Biden US Attorney threatens reporters in tirade in resurfaced video
A video of Suffolk County District Attorney Rachael Rollins rebuking journalists for attempting to interview her outside of work resurfaced Wednesday as she was confirmed to be President Biden's U.S. attorney for Massachusetts.
Opinion | Vladimir Putin Shouldn’t Be a Right-Wing Hero
It’s not hard to see the Russian dictator’s appeal to American populists. But that’s no excuse to ignore his repression and corruption, or puff him up as an exemplar of conservatism.
www.politico.com
Rep. Chip Roy of Texas on dropping female draft from NDAA: 'Can't win a fight if you don't pick it'
Rep. Chip Roy says Congress is broken, and politicians need to fight harder on certain issues like the female draft.
Biden urges world leaders to ‘lock arms’ to safeguard democracy
The two-day virtual White House summit involves 111 leaders from diverse and sometimes discordant governments.
National Archives: Meadows may not have stored all Trump-era records 'properly'
The acknowledgment comes amid his clash with the committee investigating the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.
www.politico.com
Democratic worries grow over politics of SALT cap
Democratic concerns are mounting that a tax provision in President Biden’s social spending package that is prized by suburban lawmakers from New York and New Jersey could come back to haunt the par…
thehill.com
Jussie Smollett guilty verdict latest in polarizing case
Jussie Smollett’s conviction for lying to police has come nearly three years after his report of a horrifying hate crime quickly became part of a polarized political landscape.
apnews.com
Biden honors 'giant of our history' Bob Dole at US Capitol
Bob Dole is lying in state at the U.S. Capitol. President Joe Biden and others gathered Thursday to pay tribute to the man Biden called a “giant of our history.”
apnews.com
Bitcoin surge was a windfall for white supremacists, research finds
A report from the Southern Poverty Law Center tracked more than 600 cryptocurrency addresses used by white supremacists and far-right extremists.
www.nbcnews.com
Congress clears Schumer-McConnell debt pact
Once President Joe Biden signs the bill, Senate Democrats will get a one-time free pass to raise the U.S. borrowing limit in a simple-majority vote.
www.politico.com
California pushes composting to lower food waste emissions
Food waste is California's next target as the state seeks to lower greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change.
apnews.com
Starbucks workers agree to union in Buffalo, NY
Starbucks workers at a store in Buffalo, New York, voted to unionize on Thursday, the latest sign that the labor movement is stirring after decades of decline.
apnews.com
DEA agent gets 12 years for conspiring with Colombian cartel
A once-standout U.S. narcotics agent who used his badge to build a lavish lifestyle of luxury cars and Tiffany jewelry has been sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for conspiring to launder money with a Colombian cartel.
apnews.com
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson says 'racism within the Democratic Party' is '800 lb gorilla in the room'
Democratic Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson claimed Wednesday that racism exists in the Democratic Party and likened it to an “800 lbs gorilla in the room" that everyone pretends doesn't exist.
EXPLAINER: What charges did Jussie Smollett face at trial?
The legal saga surrounding Jussie Smollett’s claim in 2019 that he was the target of a racist and homophobic attack in Chicago has culminated in a trial, which concluded with a jury convicting him on five counts of disorderly conduct.
apnews.com
Meta Oversight board overturns Instagram ban on posts featuring hallucinogen used in spiritual ceremonies
Meta’s Oversight Board announced this week that it was overturning a previous decision in July to take down an Instagram post depicting what was described as ayahuasca.In July, an I…
thehill.com
Congressional staffer with gun in bag causes brief lockdown
U.S. Capitol Police arrested a congressional staffer on Thursday after he walked into a legislative building with a gun in his bag.
apnews.com
Meadows talking to National Archives about failure to turn over records
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is in talks with counsel for Mark Meadows regarding records that he did not properly transfer to his official government account from his personal phone and email.
Florida police arrest university student with collapsible gun who threatened to ‘enact a Columbine’ - Washington Examiner
Police in Florida said they arrested a student Thursday, hours after he threatened to carry out a mass shooting at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. John Hagins, 19, was arrested outside his apartment after Daytona Beach police said it received a tip from two other students who claimed...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Boris Johnson's press chief Jack Doyle spoke at No 10 party last year
Jack Doyle gave a speech and handed out awards at the gathering on 18 December, it is understood.
www.bbc.com
Reality TV’s Josh Duggar convicted of child porn possession
A federal jury in Arkansas has convicted former reality TV star Josh Duggar of downloading and possessing child pornography.
apnews.com
Girlfriend: Daunte Wright was 'just gasping' after shooting
The woman who was riding with Daunte Wright when he was pulled over by suburban Minneapolis police and fatally shot by an officer testified to the chaotic moments immediately afterward.
apnews.com
GOP governor calls on Biden DOJ to add his state’s Democratic legislature gerrymander to Texas suit
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan called on the Department of Justice to file a lawsuit against his own state, claiming that its Democratic controlled legislature violated the Voting Rights Act with its newly drawn congressional districts
Titleist blocks customers from personalizing golf balls with 'Let's Go Brandon'
Customers attempting to print the popular anti-Biden chant “Let’s Go Brandon” on Titleist golf balls were given an error message and told their orders could not be completed.
China dismisses UK, Canada Olympic boycott as 'farce'
China is dismissing the decision by Canada and the United Kingdom to join Washington's diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games as a “farce."
apnews.com
Jill Biden says being first lady is 'harder than I imagined'
Jill Biden says being first lady is “a little harder” than she imagined it would be
Darwin in a lab: Coral evolution tweaked for global warming
COCONUT ISLAND, Hawaii (AP) — On a moonless summer night in Hawaii, krill, fish and crabs swirl through a beam of light as two researchers peer into the water above a vibrant reef.
apnews.com
Biden adds 'women' to Declaration of Independence during democracy summit remarks
President Biden cited the Declaration of Independence in his opening remarks at the Democracy Summit on Thursday but amended it to include women as he discussed the importance of American ideals.
Travis Scott says he was unaware of deaths until after show
Rapper Travis Scott says in an interview that he didn't know that fans had died at his Astroworld festival in Houston until after his performance ended.
apnews.com
Footprints show some two-legged dinosaurs were agile
Scientists say fossilized tracks from 120 million years ago show two-legged dinosaurs ran fast. The tracks from Spain join the ranks of one of the fastest known sets of dinosaur footprints.
apnews.com
More than 5 million people should prepare for possible nocturnal tornadoes Friday | CNN
The calendar may be nearing winter, but the weather is set to serve up severe thunderstorms capable of producing several tornadoes on Friday and into the overnight hours, for more than 25 million people from Texas to Ohio.
www.cnn.com
Colombian soccer championship game postponed amid match-fixing allegations
The championship final for Colombia’s second division soccer league has been postponed amid an investigation into possible match-fixing involving one of the teams, Reuters repo…
thehill.com
Missing 15-year-old Indiana girl may be in danger, police say
Indiana police are asking the public for help finding a missing 15-year-old girl who they said may be in danger.
US orders arms embargo on Cambodia, cites Chinese influence
The U.S. has ordered an arms embargo on Cambodia, citing deepening Chinese military influence, corruption and human rights abuses in the Southeast Asian country.
apnews.com
First woman to ever be nominated for Oscar in directing dies
Lina Wertmuller died in Rome on Wednesday night at the age of 93.
thehill.com
Can democracy still deliver? Biden convening global summit
President Joe Biden is convening global leaders determined to show the world that democracy can still deliver.
apnews.com
Senate votes to repeal Biden's vaccine mandate
The Senate voted Wednesday night to repeal President Joe Biden's vaccine mandate on private businesses with over 100 employees by a vote of 52-48.
Senate rejects Biden's vaccine mandate for businesses
The Senate has narrowly approved a resolution to nullify the Biden administration’s requirement that businesses with 100 or more workers have their employees be vaccinated against the coronavirus or submit to weekly testing.
apnews.com
Obama says GOP gerrymandering is ‘not how democracy is supposed to work’ | CNN Politics
Former President Barack Obama on Wednesday said “the stakes could not be higher” for democracy as he skewered Republican redistricting efforts and attempts to codify voting restrictions in state laws.
www.cnn.com
'A free pass to seize and sift': Federal court upholds terrorism conviction in controversial mass surveillance case
Jamshid Muhtorov — whose email communications were searched by the U.S. government under Section 702 of FISA — has spent years in federal custody.
www.usatoday.com
Jan. 6 committee responds to Meadows lawsuit, says it will refer him to DOJ for prosecution
The January 6 House congressional committee responded to a lawsuit from Former Trump Chief of Staff Mark Meadows by calling it flawed and said they plan on referring him to the Justice Department for prosecution.
California plans to be abortion sanctuary if Roe overturned
State lawmakers may help pay for people from other states to come to California for abortions if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade.
apnews.com
Renewing democracy is 'defining challenge of our time,' Biden tells summit
U.S. President Joe Biden gathered over 100 world leaders at a summit on Thursday and made a plea to bolster democracies around the world, calling safeguarding rights and freedoms in the face of rising authoritarianism the "defining challenge" of the current era.
Ghislaine Maxwell: Ex-boyfriend of Maxwell accuser backs up statement
The woman, known in court as Carolyn, alleged she had sex with Jeffrey Epstein from age 14 to 18.
www.bbc.com
Alleged massacre in Myanmar village highlights bitter fight
Outrage is spreading on social media in Myanmar over images and accounts of the alleged killing and burning of 11 villagers captured by government troops in the country’s northwest.
apnews.com
US sees ‘urgent’ need to boost Taiwan defenses, official says
The United States sees an “urgent” need to bolster defenses in Taiwan amid worrying signals that China wants to take over the island by force, according to a top Pentagon official …
thehill.com
Fact check: David Perdue falsely claims Brian Kemp turned over control of Georgia elections to Stacey Abrams | CNN Politics
Former Sen. David Perdue of Georgia launched his campaign for governor on Monday with a false claim about his chief opponent in the Republican primary, incumbent Gov. Brian Kemp.
www.cnn.com
Democrats launch effort to strip Boebert of House committees over anti-Muslim comments
A group of House Democrats are backing a resolution that would remove Rep. Lauren Boeber from her committee assignments.
www.usatoday.com
Senate passes resolution to repeal Biden vaccine mandate, with help of two Democrats
The measure faces long odds in the Democratic-controlled House.
www.nbcnews.com
Biden team weighs unprecedented sanctions against Russia over Ukraine
Current and ex-officials say the options include cutting Russia off from the SWIFT international bank messaging system, which could also hurt the West.
www.nbcnews.com
Hong Kong democracy activists found guilty over Tiananmen vigil
Three, including tycoon Jimmy Lai, convicted over their part in last year’s vigil commemorating those killed in 1989.
Mark Meadows sues Pelosi, Jan. 6 committee members as they push to hold him in contempt
The civil lawsuit came as the House select panel moves to hold Meadows in contempt for refusing to cooperate with the probe of the Jan. 6 invasion.
Michigan man charged in assault on officers in Capitol riot
A 41-year-old Michigan man has been arrested and accused of using chemical spray on law enforcement officers as part of a mob that stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6
How Schumer and McConnell got the debt deal done
The agreement to raise the debt ceiling between the two Senate leaders might mark a high point for their relationship. Don't expect it to last.
www.politico.com
EXPLAINER: What does an Olympic diplomatic boycott achieve?
Diplomatic boycotts of the Olympics aim to snub host nations while keeping athletes free to compete.
apnews.com
Instagram CEO says it's "critical" to have multi-platform youth safety rules
Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri told a Senate subcommittee investigating the harmful effects of the photo sharing app on teenagers that "keeping young people safe online is not just about one company."
www.cbsnews.com
QAnon theorists are running for political office
Watchdog group Media Matters for America says at least 48 candidates running for Congress "have previously endorsed or given credence" to QAnon.
www.wkbw.com
OnPolitics: Debt ceiling deal passes in House, onto the Senate
The House voted on a bipartisan agreement that allows Congress to move close to raising the debt ceiling.
www.usatoday.com
Biden administration asks U.S. Supreme Court to reject Harvard affirmative action case
U.S. President Joe Biden's administration on Wednesday urged the U.S. Supreme Court to decline to hear a case against Harvard University challenging the ability of it and other schools to consider race as a factor in student admissions to boost diversity.
Looking at role of prosecutors, politics in mass incarceration — Harvard Gazette
Research by a Harvard doctoral student found that district attorneys push harder for convictions and sentences in election years.
news.harvard.edu
Analysis: Why Joe Manchin’s answer on party switching may raise some eyebrows | CNN Politics
West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin sounds very much like a man without a country these days.
www.cnn.com
Father, son arrested in wildfire that threatened Lake Tahoe
A father and son have been arrested on suspicion of starting a massive California wildfire that forced tens of thousands to flee the Lake Tahoe area earlier this year.
apnews.com
Millions of families will receive a Child Tax Credit monthly payment next week. It could be the last one.
The IRS has told some lawmakers the bill needs to pass by December 28 for payments to continue smoothly heading into January, according to Senate and House congressional aides.
www.cbsnews.com
Coalition Condemns Political Attacks Against Books in Schools
The National Coalition Against Censorship has issued a statement signed by more than 600 signatories condemning the political efforts to remove books from schools as acts of censorship that threaten the education of children while putting the safety of librarians, teachers, school administrators...
www.publishersweekly.com
Nunes resignation sparks massive political shakeup | Guest Commentary
COMMENTARY: The state’s political scene got a major shakeup on Monday, when Rep. Devin Nunes, a high-profile, powerful and controversial Republican who’s represented the San Joaquin Valley in Congress since
Spanberger stranded as Virginia nears new congressional map
Democrats are still favored in most districts under a draft map released Wednesday, but one of the party's star young members is left without a seat.
www.politico.com
Study: Political divisions have deepened globally
Political divisions are deeper than at any time in the past 50 years, according to a new study led by the University of St Andrews.
US small arms and ammo arrive in Ukraine as Pentagon details troops to train country’s military | CNN Politics
Part of a $60 million security assistance package, including small arms and ammunition, was delivered to Ukraine on Thursday, according to a State Department official in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, but a final delivery containing four counter mortar radars is still scheduled for...
www.cnn.comPerdue's campaign is rooted in falsehoods
Former Sen. David Perdue is running for Georgia's 2022 Republican gubernatorial nomination with a campaign — so far — rooted in a string of falsehoods.Why it matters: As Axios's Jonathan Swan has pointed out, this follows a national trend of Trump-backed Republicans challenging those who didn't...
Oklahoma senator proposes naming three inches of highway after departing football coach
An Oklahoma senator on Tuesday proposed “honoring” former University of Oklahoma football coach Lincoln Riley by naming a 3-inch portion of state highway after him, according …
thehill.com
Secularist group targets decades-long tradition of laying wreaths on soldiers' tombs
A secularist religious freedom non-profit organization that strongly urges separation of church and state in America is taking issue with a nearly 30-year tradition of laying wreaths on soldiers' tombs.
Fox News Christmas Tree Arson Suspect Craig Tamanaha Has 3 Priors
"We will not let this deliberate and brazen act of cowardice deter us," Fox News Media CEO Suzanne Scott said in an internal memo sent out to employees.
www.newsweek.comGirlfriend: Daunte Wright was 'just gasping' after shooting
The woman who was riding with Daunte Wright when he was pulled over by suburban Minneapolis police and fatally shot by an officer testified to the chaotic moments immediately afterward.
apnews.com
Myanmar coup: The women abused and tortured in detention
Women held for protesting against a military takeover say they were sexually assaulted and tortured.
www.bbc.com
DOJ urges Supreme Court to reject Harvard affirmative action challenge
The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Wednesday asked the Supreme Court to turn away a challenge to Harvard University’s admissions practices, which plaintiffs claim are discriminatory against A…
thehill.com
Co-chair of Texas school board's racial-equity panel quits after confrontation with parents
An officer with a Texas school board's racial-equity panel resigned after confessing to releasing the personal information of parents online and leaving a profanity-laced voicemail for one parent, Fox News has learned.
Lawmakers to take first steps toward new congressional map
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — A Republican-controlled state House committee planned to vote on a proposed map of Pennsylvania's new congressional districts that its chair introduced into legislation Wednesday, as a
Senate Democrats say Republicans are holding up nomination for anti-Semitism post | CNN Politics
Democrats in Congress told CNN that GOP senators are continuing to hold up the nomination of the woman President Joe Biden tapped to become the next US Envoy to Combat and Monitor Anti-Semitism, five months after she was nominated.
www.cnn.comBeijing’s ‘Autocracy Olympics’ is almost here
www.politico.com
Woman found dead after car floats near edge of Niagara Falls
Authorities said the female driver is believed to be in her late 60s.
www.nbcnews.com
San Jose inches along in redistricting process
The heart of Silicon Valley is redrawing its political boundaries to account for population changes. Lawmakers are still choosing a final map.
sanjosespotlight.com
Arizona Attorney General Brnovich slams Biden over 'politically correct' choice for new CBP head
Brnovich sat down with Fox News on Wednesday to discuss the border crisis currently facing the country and the newly-confirmed CBP commissioner, Chris Magnus.
The four key moments from Instagram's Capitol Hill hearing
Instagram head Adam Mosseri testified before Senate lawmakers Wednesday and was pressed on the app's impacts on young children and teens.Why it matters: Legislation to protect kids online is one area Congress has shown it's willing to regulate, as Axios previously reported. Wednesday's...
UN hails ‘strong political support’ to boost peacekeepers in the field
A meeting to boost support for UN Peacekeeping ended on Wednesday with 62 countries making new pledges, and advancing existing commitments, to help enhance the performance and impact of these operations worldwide.
California father, son accused of reckless arson in massive Caldor Fire
The fire burned more than 200,000 acres and caused the evacuation of the city of South Lake Tahoe.
www.nbcnews.com
Former NFL player Glenn Foster dies after arrest in Alabama
Alabama authorities are investigating after former NFL player Glenn Foster Jr. died in custody following a high-speed chase that resulted in his arrest and then a scuffle involving officers in the jail where he was being held.
apnews.com
Opinion: Intel CEO: The best way to fix America’s chip shortage | CNN Business
Congress must fund the CHIPS for America Act, which will invest $52 billion in domestic semiconductor capacity and capability.
www.cnn.comNorth Carolina Supreme Court delays primary elections until May 2022
(Reuters) -The North Carolina Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered primary elections in the state delayed from March until May of 2022, citing legal challenges to gerrymandered political maps. The court in its five-page unsigned written ruling directed North Carolina election officials to hold...
The ex-journo Biden’s tapped to confront China
www.politico.com
Amazon's cloud issues highlight backbones of modern internet
Tuesday's incident mostly affected the eastern U.S. and impacted everything from airline reservations and car dealerships to Amazon’s own e-commerce operation.
www.nbcnews.comWyoming lawmakers again oppose Trump-backed election changes
CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming lawmakers have again decided not to move forward with major election changes supported by former President Donald Trump.
Even amid boycott, IOC still hit with Peng Shuai questions
IOC President Thomas Bach can’t escape repeated questions about Peng Shuai and issues raised by two video calls the International Olympic Committee has had with her.
apnews.com
The UAE is adopting a 4.5-day workweek and a Saturday-Sunday weekend
The change will apply to federal government entities starting in January. UAE officials hope it will enhance workers' well-being and boost the country's economic competitiveness.
www.npr.org
Coming together in a polarized political atmosphere • Wisconsin Examiner
The war on truth won’t be settled with a truce on some middle ground where we agree the election was kind of fraudulent.
wisconsinexaminer.com
Biden to speak with Ukraine President Zelensky as Russian forces gather on border
President Biden is slated to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday about the Russian forces gathering on the country's border.
U.S. begins denying Afghan immigrants seeking humanitarian parole
The Biden administration has begun issuing denials to Afghans seeking to emigrate to the United States through the humanitarian parole process, after a system that typically processes 2,000 applications annually has been flooded with more than 30,000.Why it matters: Afghans face steeper odds and...
Africa needs China and the US to work together
The US promotes democracy and China builds infrastructure but people in Africa want both.
www.bbc.com
More communities required to provide language help to Latino and other voters
Since 2016, the number of communities with eligible Hispanic, Asian American and other voters who are not proficient in English has increased.
www.nbcnews.com
New Mexico lawmakers want $100M for 'alternative broadband'
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A proposed bill in the New Mexico state House would set aside $100 million for “alternative broadband.”
US could hold off for now on energy sanctions for Russia, fearing impact on global prices | CNN Politics
The Biden administration is drafting options for multiple rounds of harsh sanctions on Russia if it moves to invade Ukraine, but energy sanctions could be a last resort given the impact they could have on the global economy and domestic gasoline prices, three US officials tell CNN.
www.cnn.com
Downing Street party: Police will not investigate due to 'lack of evidence'
The prime minister has come under pressure over a No 10 event that took place amid Covid restrictions.
www.bbc.com
Jussie Smollett case in jurors' hands at Chicago trial
A jury has completed deliberations for the day in the trial of actor Jussie Smollett on charges he staged a racist, anti-gay attack on himself and lied to Chicago police about it.
apnews.comLibrary display pairing Bible with explicit books removed
A northern Virginia library has removed a display that placed the Bible alongside two books activists have sought to remove from school libraries as pornographic and obscene
Poshard, after decades in politics, raises alarm in new documentary
“I'm 76 years old — it's the first time in my life I've been scared for my country and (that) we could lose this democracy, that we could die by
Sheriffs group rebuts White House claim it is helping combat surge in retail thefts
The National Sheriffs Association fired back at White House Press Secretary Jen Psaski's claim that the Biden administration is working with local law enforcement to help curb retail theft.
Tips for consuming political advertising
Professor gives advice ahead of 2022 Senate race in Ohio
A record number of journalists are in prison right now, according to press freedom report | CNN Business
More journalists are behind bars for their work globally than ever before, with repressive regimes from Asia to Europe leading an unprecedented crackdown on press freedoms, the media watchdog group Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has warned in a new report.
www.cnn.com
Some in California have to limit their daily water usage to 55 gallons. Here's what that means for everyday activities
A 10-minute shower uses about 25 gallons of water. One load of laundry uses 40 gallons.
www.cbsnews.com
How political are the Olympics? Here's a historical timeline
The United States announced the latest in a longstanding tradition of political boycotts at the Olympics when White House press secretary Jen Psaki this week said U.S. diplomats would not
D.C. council renames the street in front of the Saudi embassy after Jamal Khashoggi
The decision marks a rebuke to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who according to U.S. intelligence approved the killing of the former Washington Post journalist and critic of Saudi policy.
www.npr.org
Political standing of Moscow result of left-leaning political history
www.uiargonaut.com
Elizabeth Holmes spent 7 days defending herself against fraud. Will the jury buy it?
The former CEO of Theranos finished her marathon testimony on Wednesday. The high-profile case against the onetime Silicon Valley star now moves closer to jury deliberations.
www.npr.org
Baltimore mayor walks away after reporter questions his crime-drop claims
Baltimore’s Democratic mayor claimed that violent crime is down in his city and walked away from a reporter when pressed as to why assaults were not being factored into the total violent crime count.
Prosecutor: Potter 'failed' Wright; defense calls it mistake
Jurors at the trial of the former suburban Minneapolis police officer who killed Black motorist Daunte Wright are hearing starkly different versions of events.
apnews.com
New Zealand to ban cigarettes for future generations
No New Zealander born after 2008 will be able to buy tobacco under proposed new health laws.
www.bbc.com
North Carolina Supreme Court delays primaries over redistricting lawsuits | CNN Politics
The North Carolina Supreme Court issued an order Wednesday that moves the state’s primary elections from March 2022 to May 2022, due to lawsuits over redistricting maps for congressional and state legislative districts.
www.cnn.com
House passes measures to condemn and punish China over human rights abuses against Uighurs
The House of Representatives passed three separate measures Wednesday night putting diplomatic pressure on both China and the International Olympic Committee related to human rights violations leading up to the 2022 Olympic Games in Beijing.
In just six days we've learnt plenty about where politics is heading
This year has been dominated by COVID-19 but, as the past six days show, the political landscape has been shifting in all sorts of ways that will shape the coming election, writes David Speers.
www.abc.net.au
Ethiopia war: UN halts food aid in two towns after warehouses looted
Aid workers faced extreme intimidation and were held at gunpoint by looters, the UN says.
www.bbc.comEXPLAINER: How does an officer use a gun instead of a Taser?
At former Minnesota police officer Kim Potter’s manslaughter trial for fatally shooting Daunte Wright, a Black motorist, the core of her defense is clear: She says she meant to use her Taser but grabbed her handgun instead.
apnews.com
Capitol riot: Lawmakers to hold ex-Trump chief of staff in contempt
Former chief of staff Mark Meadows has also sued the 6 January committee members.
www.bbc.com
Brian Williams’ final MSNBC broadcast will be on Thursday | CNN Business
Brian Williams, who helped put MSNBC on the map 25 years ago, is about to exit the cable news network.
www.cnn.com
Two dozen Congressional Republicans demand Google reinstate Live Action's 'life-saving' advertisements
Two dozen members of Congress are calling on Google to reinstate advertisements from Live Action, a non-profit pro-life organization, which promoted Heartbeat International’s Abortion Pill Reversal (APR) hotline.
Joining drag queens on TV show costs Indiana pastor his job
The Rev. Craig Duke has been a Methodist minister for three decades, building a reputation as a staunch advocate of LGBTQ inclusion.
apnews.com
Olaf Scholz: Foreign tests mount for Germany's new crisis manager
As Olaf Scholz charts a new path for Germany, international crises may occupy much of his time.
www.bbc.com
IOC announces ‘humanitarian aid’ for athletes in Afghanistan
International Olympic Committee announces $560,000 of aid for the winter to athletes left behind in the country.
Pharma lobby eyes parliamentarian as last resort to nix drug pricing measure
The pharmaceutical industry is banking on arcane Senate rules as a final plan of attack to unravel Democrats’ proposal to regulate prescription drug prices.In addition to their usual flurry of lobb…
thehill.com
Finland PM Sanna Marin apologizes after being seen at nightclub following Covid exposure
Marin said she had initially been told she did not have to quarantine because she had two vaccine doses, but was later given different guidance.
www.nbcnews.com
Why millions of German residents can’t vote | CNN
Meet Germany’s activists and politicians determined to help open the door for immigrants and other non-German citizens to vote.
www.cnn.com
Revamped New Mexico 3-seat congressional map advances
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Democratic legislators on Wednesday advanced a plan to redraw New Mexico’s three congressional districts and reshape a southern district that has traditionally been dominated by
Pence does not commit to cooperating with Jan. 6th congressional committee
Former Vice President Mike Pence says he’ll evaluate any requests to cooperate with the special congressional committee investigating the Jan. 6 storming of the U.S. Capitol
Justice Dept. still probing civil rights era police killings
The Justice Department has closed its investigation of Emmett Till’s slaying, yet agents are still probing as many as 20 other civil rights cold cases.
apnews.com
Americans Still Care For Each Other Across Political Difference, But Fail To Address Many Types of Biases
Americans still fundamentally care for each other despite political differences, but persistent biases of many kinds may be preventing many Americans
www.businesswire.com
Putin-Biden talks: What next for Ukraine?
Russia's president will want to register some kind of victory before his troops return, writes Jonathan Marcus.
www.bbc.com
Tiger Woods is returning to golf and will compete in a tournament with his 12-year-old son
Woods, 45, says he'll participate in the PNC Championship with his 12-year-old son, Charlie.
www.cbsnews.com
Biden awards Medal of Honor to three veterans of Iraq, Afghanistan
President Biden on Thursday awarded the Medal of Honor to three soldiers who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
An Auburn student vanished 45 years ago. His car was just found in an Alabama creek.
It’s still unclear why the car was in the creek and whether bones found inside belong to Kyle Clinkscales.
www.nbcnews.com
Robbie Shakespeare, influential Sly and Robbie bassist, dies aged 68
The acclaimed Sly and Robbie bassist is credited with revolutionising the sound of reggae and dancehall.
www.bbc.com
Vaccine makers racing to update COVID shots, just in case
Vaccine makers are racing to update their COVID-19 shots against omicron even before it’s clear a change is needed, just in case.
apnews.com
Omicron updates: COVID-19 cases could double in New York City
As the COVID-19 pandemic has swept the globe, more than 5.3 million people have died from the disease worldwide, including over 797,000 Americans.
Christie says Trump, Meadows should have warned him of positive COVID-19 test
Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) said in a new interview with PBS that former President Trump and former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows should have told him that Tr…
thehill.com
Kids are driving up COVID cases, but parents are still reluctant to vaccinate them, poll shows
Two-thirds of parents of young children are either waiting or refuse to get their younger children vaccinated, according to poll released Thursday by KFF.
‘Idiocy’: Murphy lashes out at GOP lawmakers who defied Statehouse vax-or-test rule
A visibly angry Murphy called the Republicans’ actions “idiocy” as well as “outrageous [and] irresponsible.”
www.politico.com
Biden's CMS vaccine mandate faces strong opposition from over 150 Republicans led by Jeff Duncan
Rep. Jeff Duncan, R-S.C., is leading more than 150 Republicans in opposing President Biden's COVID-19 vaccination mandate for health care workers.
Navy medics join COVID fight in hard-hit New Mexico
Dozens of U.S. Navy medics have deployed to New Mexico to treat a Delta variant-fueled surge in COVID-19 patients as part of a military operation to treat virus hotspots across Western and Midwest states.
How to spot the next Omicron
www.politico.com
Ron Johnson claims mouthwash helps prevent COVID-19 - Washington Examiner
COVID-19 could be prevented by gargling and rinsing, Sen. Ron Johnson claimed Wednesday. The Wisconsin Republican argued that several unproven methods, such as zinc, vitamin D, and the "standard gargle of mouthwash," could prevent contraction of COVID-19. "By the way, standard gargle mouthwash...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
U.S. campaign to vaccinate young children off to sluggish start despite abundant supply
The United States rushed millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses for children ages 5 to 11 across the nation, but demand for inoculations for younger kids has been low, more than a dozen state public health officials and physicians said.
'No end in sight': Massachusetts hospital flooded with patients amidst COVID surge
The UMass Memorial Health System is once again, completely overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients.
Australia to make COVID-19 vaccines available for children ages 5-11
Children as young as five years old will become eligible to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in Australia beginning next month, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on Friday.“In one month fr…
thehill.com
VW to pay $3.5 million to resolve Illinois diesel lawsuit
Volkswagen AG's U.S. unit will pay $3.5 million to resolve a lawsuit by the state of Illinois against the German automaker for updates of emissions software arising from the 2015 diesel cheating scandal.
Biden’s COVID-19 testing plan finds few fans - Washington Examiner
President Joe Biden has long been criticized for going too far on mask and vaccine mandates, but his plan to offer free COVID-19 testing is drawing vocal opposition from those who say it doesn't go far enough. The plan calls for health insurance companies to reimburse patients for tests, but it...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Federal appeals court hears arguments over South Carolina mask mandate provision
State officials, including Gov. Henry McMaster, asked the 4th Circuit to step in after a lower-court judge blocked an order passed by the Legislature.
www.politico.com
Biden health team ruled out free Covid tests for all over cost, logistics
“It’s like they want to appear like they’re doing something, but aren’t as concerned about actual impact," said Celine Gounder, an infectious disease specialist.
www.politico.com
FDA clears first Covid antibody treatment for immunocompromised before exposure
The antibody cocktail therapy involves getting preventive injections as often as every six months.
www.nbcnews.com
The AP Interview: CDC chief says omicron mostly mild so far
The chief of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says more than 40 people in the country have been found to be infected with the omicron variant so far and more than three-quarters of them had been vaccinated.
apnews.com
New COVID-19 antibody drug OK'd to protect most vulnerable
U.S. officials have authorized a new COVID-19 antibody drug for people with serious health problems or allergies who can’t get adequate protection from vaccination
Three Northeast states deploy National Guard amid medical capacity crisis due to pandemic | CNN
The governors of Maine and New York deployed the National Guard in response to dangerously low capacity at statewide medical facilities due to the pandemic.
www.cnn.com
In a largely symbolic move, the Senate votes to block Biden's vaccine-or-test mandate
The White House says the president will veto the bill if it reaches his desk. But GOP lawmakers pushed the measure as the political fight over vaccine mandates deepens.
www.npr.org
Will children need Covid-19 booster shots?
A booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine appears to provide strong protection against the omicron variant, the companies said.
www.nbcnews.com
Australia discovers ‘omicron-like’ variant that is harder to detect
Australia found an “omicron-like” coronavirus strain in a traveler from South Africa that was harder to detect than the highly mutated COVID-19 variant identified late last mo…
thehill.com
The latest lab science on Omicron's threat
Understanding how fast Omicron spreads and how sick it makes you is key to comprehending its threat.
www.bbc.com
Omicron could be milder than Delta: WHO chief
New variant may pose a higher reinfection risk but new research indicates it could be less severe than Delta strain.
The complicated path for N.H. co-parents who disagree on the COVID vaccine
Separated parents who share custody could face legal battles if they can’t agree on the COVID-19 vaccine for their kids.
www.nhpr.org
Hospitals refused to give patients ivermectin, political pressure followed
Ivermectin is not an FDA-approved treatment for COVID-19. But politicians and patients are still pressuring hospitals to administer it.
Kentucky Congressman Guthrie tests positive for COVID-19
Republican U.S. Rep. Brett Guthrie says he tested positive for COVID-19 and has mild symptoms
‘Toxic climate’: Hong Kong pilots buckle under ‘Zero COVID’ rules
Cathay Pacific crew describe low morale at flagship carrier as questions hang over future of aviation hub.
Omicron variant spread leads to tighter restrictions in Britain
Scientists at the U.K. Health Security Agency said they expected the omicron variant to become the dominant strain in Britain in the next two to four weeks.
www.nbcnews.comOmicron updates: COVID-19 cases could double in New York City
As the COVID-19 pandemic has swept the globe, more than 5.3 million people have died from the disease worldwide, including over 797,000 Americans.
Covid vaccines: Why is Nigeria unable to use its supply?
It's reported that up to one million doses of Covid vaccine in Nigeria have expired and are to be destroyed.
www.bbc.com
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