Republican presidential candidates Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy and Nikki Haley.Getty Images; AP
Who will get a ticket punched out of Iowa? Here’s what each GOP candidate has to do.
DES MOINES, Iowa — Presidential campaigns have lived and died by their success in Iowa. Former President Donald Trump is viewed as the heavy favorite to win Iowa in the Jan. 15 caucuses — something many of his competitors are even quietly predicting.Watchdog group accuses Ron DeSantis of breaking campaign finance law
A nonpartisan government watchdog group says Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis broke campaign finance law by coordinating TV spending decisions with a big-dollar super PAC that is supporting his Republican bid for the White House.
apnews.comGOP senators distance themselves from Trump's 'poisoning' immigration comments
It's reminiscent of Trump's presidency, when Republicans would commonly say they hadn't seen Trump's comments or only modestly push back on them.
www.politico.comAppeals court says Mark Meadows can’t move Georgia election case charges to federal court
Meadows was indicted in August along with former President Donald Trump and 17 others on charges that they illegally conspired to keep Trump in power despite him losing the election to Joe Biden.
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Judge rejects key points of Trump’s defense in NY civil fraud case in bad sign for former president | CNN Politics
The New York trial judge overseeing Donald Trump’s civil fraud trial wrote a scathing denial of the former president’s latest attempt to toss the state attorney general’s case against him — potentially a preview of a tough outcome for Trump as the trial process winds down.
www.cnn.comWhat about Bob? Some NJ Democrats want Menendez to move on so they can fight for his Senate seat
Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey has vowed he's not going anywhere amid a federal corruption case against him, but the party he once held considerable sway over is looking beyond him.
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North Korea threatens ‘lightning’ strike after ICBM test - Washington Examiner
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s regime threatened to call down a “bolt of lightning” on South Korea one day after a pair of missile launches that spurred a series of warnings from the United States and its regional allies."A frightened dog barks louder,” the state-run Korean Central News...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Trump civil fraud case: Judge fines Trump $354 million, says frauds 'shock the conscience'
Get updates from the trial of former President Trump in the civil fraud suit brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James.
Some Trump fake electors from 2020 haven't faded away. They have roles in how the 2024 race is run
A man overseeing 2024 elections in a Republican Nevada county is set to be arraigned with 5 others on charges of false paperwork claiming Donald Trump's state win in 2020.
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Israel-Hamas war updates: Hamas ‘open to any initiative’ on prisoner swap
These were the Israel-Hamas war updates for Monday, December 18.
Clarence Thomas faces new financial scrutiny, recusal calls as Supreme Court considers Trump election case
Special counsel Jack Smith has asked the Supreme Court to quickly sink Trump's claim of "presidential immunity" in the criminal election case.
US warship responds to an attack on commercial ship in Red Sea | CNN Politics
The USS Carney responded Monday to a distress call from a commercial vessel after it was attacked by “multiple projectiles” in the southern Red Sea, a US military official said.
www.cnn.comGeorgia election workers ask for court order barring Rudy Giuliani from repeating lies about them
Two former Georgia election workers who won a $148 million defamation judgement against Rudy Giuliani are asking for a court order barring him from continuing to repeat the lies he spread about them following the 2020 election.
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Complaint accuses DeSantis campaign of illegally coordinating with Never Back Down
Campaign Legal Center has now filed a total of five complaints against DeSantis or his donors this year.
www.politico.com
Trump judge slams credibility of paid expert in fraud case, suggests fee influenced testimony
The expert defense witness, NYU Professor Eli Bartov, told CNBC that his nearly $900,000 payment played no role in his assessment of Trump's financial records.
3 dead, 600,000 without power after monster storm tears up the East Coast
More than 600,000 customers are without power in Connecticut, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island and Maine.
House Democrats call on Justice Clarence Thomas to recuse from Trump 2020 election case
Eight House Democrats told Thomas he should recuse from the case involving whether Trump has immunity from federal prosecution for alleged crimes committed while in office.
www.cbsnews.comUS envoys work for a new hostage release deal and a scale-down of the Israel-Hamas war
United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed with Israeli leaders ways to scale back major combat operations in Gaza.
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Thune says ‘no way’ Senate can pass an immigration plan this week | CNN Politics
Senate Minority Whip John Thune told CNN’s Manu Raju that there is no way the Senate can vote on an immigration deal this week, meaning aid for Ukraine and Israel will not pass either.
www.cnn.com
Opinion | No Labels Is Pushing a Lie That Will Elect Trump
There’s no path to victory for a third-party candidate.
www.politico.com
Sanders minimum wage bill would reduce poverty by 400,000 but also kill 700,000 jobs: CBO - Washington Examiner
A minimum wage proposal by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) would cut the number of impoverished people by hundreds of thousands but cause even more lost jobs, according to a new analysis from Congress's scorekeeper. The plan, which Sanders introduced in May, would hike the minimum wage over time...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Stefanik silent after Trump says immigrants are 'poisoning the blood' of US
The Biden campaign likened Trump's remarks over the weekend to Adolf Hitler's.
www.politico.comLiberal group appeals ruling letting Trump stay on ballot to Michigan Supreme Court
A liberal group is appealing a ruling that allows former President Donald Trump to stay on the Michigan primary ballot to the state supreme court.
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As Joe Biden marks a somber anniversary, his son's fate weighs on him
Monday is 51 years since his first wife and baby daughter died in a car accident.
www.nbcnews.com
New bulletin warns threat of violence by lone offenders "likely heightened" through New Year's Eve
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas is likely to raise threats of "lone offender violence" around events including New Year's Eve, the bulletin says.
www.cbsnews.com
DeSantis campaign and aligned super PAC hit with FEC complaint over alleged coordination - Washington Examiner
Gov. Ron DeSantis's (R-FL) presidential campaign and his aligned super PAC were the target of a complaint to the Federal Election Commission alleging illegal cooperation between the two. The Campaign Legal Center, a nonprofit watchdog, filed the complaint. The filing alleged that DeSantis's...
www.washingtonexaminer.comPentagon announces new international mission to counter attacks on commercial vessels in Red Sea
The U.S. and other nations are creating a new force to protect ships transiting the Red Sea from attacks by Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen.
apnews.com
Obama reportedly worried about Biden's chances in 2024 election: 'Democrats could very well lose'
Former President Barack Obama is concerned about President Biden's chances of winning re-election, according to a report published by the Wall Street Journal over the weekend.
U.S. launches Operation Prosperity Guardian to defend Red Sea shipping lanes from Houthi attacks
BP, Maersk, others have paused shipping in the Red Sea due to the elevated threat of Iran-backed Houthi attacks.
Donald Trump attacks 'dangerous' gag order decision in request for more judges to weigh in
Former President Donald Trump asked for all the judges of a D.C. federal appeals court to review a gag order in his federal election meddling case.
www.usatoday.com
US says it will run out of funds for Ukraine this month
The administration plans to announce one more package of military aid before the end of the year.
www.politico.com
Crypto super PAC network goes into 2024 with more than $75 million as it aims to influence election
A network of cryptocurrency-backed super PACs is heading into 2024 with $78 million at its disposal.
Austin announces US-led security operation focusing on Red Sea, Gulf of Aden after Houthi attacks on commercial shipping | CNN Politics
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on Monday announced a new US-led operation focusing on the “security challenges in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden” following recent attacks by Houthi forces on commercial marine traffic in the region.
www.cnn.com
Smell that: The rise of India’s ittar industry
Natural perfumes are seeing a resurgence thanks to a handful of start-ups offering old and new fragrances.
San Francisco prosecutors begin charging 80 protesters who blocked bridge while demanding cease-fire
San Francisco prosecutors have begun charging 80 protesters who last month snarled traffic for hours on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge while demanding a cease-fire in Gaza.
apnews.com
‘Too old’: Nikki Haley makes a direct attack on Biden's age
The 51-year-old former South Carolina governor has repeatedly needled Biden, 81, over his age.
www.politico.com
Trump’s rhetoric in final campaign sprint goes to new dark extremes | CNN Politics
Donald Trump’s rhetoric dropped to a spine-tingling new low this weekend with less than a month before the Iowa caucuses.
www.cnn.com
'Traumatized': One woman's pregnancy journey becomes a nightmare in post-Roe America
Meagan's fetus had a severe, life-limiting anomaly, but she was unable to get care in Wisconsin. Meagan and her husband traveled to
How the White House got involved in the border talks on Capitol Hill — with Ukraine aid at stake
Top Biden administration officials have ramped up their involvement in the recent border talks on Capitol Hill.
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Appeals court denies Mark Meadows bid to remove Trump RICO case to federal court - Washington Examiner
A federal appeals court on Monday rejected former Trump administration chief of staff Mark Meadows's bid to have his criminal case prosecuted in federal court.Former President Donald Trump, Meadows, and 17 others were charged in August after a grand jury handed up a sweeping racketeering...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Yemen’s Houthis say they attacked two more vessels in the Red Sea
Owner of Swan Atlantic says unidentified object strikes ship but none of crew hurt. Panama-flagged vessel also targeted.
12-year-old girl killed at Gaza hospital weeks after she said, 'I only want ... the war to end'
A 12-year-old girl has died in an apparent strike in Gaza weeks after she was interviewed on video by the Defense for Children International.
Oath of Office: Biden took out Trump once, but did he restore the ‘soul of the nation’? - Washington Examiner
President Joe Biden has said he ran for office "to restore the soul of the nation, rebuild the middle class, and unite the country." With 2024 looming, it's time to take stock of other promises he has made while campaigning and in office. This Washington Examiner series, Oath of Office, will...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Israel’s tactics in Gaza could backfire and fuel more extremism, Democratic lawmakers warn
The Democratic House members warned that a high civilian casualty toll could undermine the goal of destroying Hamas.
www.nbcnews.com
Congress unlikely to finish work on Ukraine, border deal this year
Senate negotiators met over the weekend and cited progress, but the Republican side suggested January was more “realistic.”
www.politico.comTrump says Nevada fake electors treated 'unfairly' during rally in Reno
Donald Trump called out three of Nevada’s fake electors during a rally in Reno. The former president said Sunday the fake electors are being treated unfairly.
apnews.com
Did America get 'ripped off'? UFO disclosure bill derided for lack of transparency.
Under the provision, the government will have to disclose some records about UFOs, but some transparency advocates don't think it goes far enough.
www.usatoday.com
Fired Senate staffer could face criminal charges over hearing room sex video: Turley - Washington Examiner
The former Senate staffer accused of filming himself engaging in explicit sexual activity in a congressional hearing room may be in legal jeopardy. The U.S. Capitol Police told the Washington Examiner over the weekend that it was investigating the matter, which had already prompted Sen. Ben...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Trump makes long-shot bid to toss gag order in D.C. election case
Former President Donald Trump is accused of trying to illegally overturn his 2020 election loss to Joe Biden.
E.U. opens investigation into X over suspected failure to combat illegal content
The investigation will look into how the social platform has tried to combat disinformation.
www.nbcnews.com
Hamas is now recruiting in Lebanon. What will that mean for Hezbollah?
Mainstream Lebanese politicians have criticised the Hamas move. But it will likely help Hezbollah.
Senate sex tape: US Capitol Police 'taking it seriously,' source says
Capitol Hill police are still investigating circumstances around the filming of a sex tape in Hart Senate Office Building, a source confirmed to Fox News.
No truth to claim of $5,000 gift cards for people illegally entering the US | Fact check
An immigration expert says the claim is false. Spokespeople with two federal law enforcement agencies confirm they do not hand out such gift cards.
www.usatoday.com
Hakeem Jeffries endorses David Trone in divided Maryland Senate race to succeed Ben Cardin - Washington Examiner
Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) and his deputies in the House endorsed Rep. David Trone's (D-MD) run for Senate on Monday, further dividing the party in what has become a two-person race in Maryland. To date, some of the biggest names in Maryland politics, from Gov. Wes Moore (D-MD) to...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
OnPolitics: What do voters know after four GOP debates?
The 2024 election has raised a new question for voters: Do candidate debates still matter?
www.usatoday.com
A Confederate memorial is to be removed from Arlington National Cemetery, despite some GOP pushback
The decision ignores a recent demand from more than 40 Republican congressmen that the Pentagon suspend efforts to dismantle and remove the monument from Arlington cemetery.
www.nbcnews.com
UN delays vote on cease-fire resolution; Austin pushes Israel to 'protect' Gazans: Updates
Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin holds talks in Israel with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Hostage talks in Warsaw go nowhere.
www.usatoday.com
The polls look awful for Biden. He keeps insisting otherwise.
“You’re reading the wrong polls,” Biden told reporters Sunday.
www.politico.comUkraine's next US weapons package will be the last before key funds run out, White House says
The White House said it'll send one more aid package to Ukraine before the end of the month and called on Congress to approve new assistance.
Texas governor signs bill that lets police arrest migrants who enter the US illegally
Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has approved sweeping new powers that allow police to arrest migrants who illegally cross the U.S. border and give local judges authority to order them to leave the country.
apnews.com
They just won a $148M verdict against Giuliani. Now they’re suing him again.
Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss are seeking a court order barring Rudy Giuliani from continuing to spread false claims about them.
www.politico.com
President el-Sisi declared victorious in Egypt election
Sisi took 89.6 percent of the vote to secure a third term, with turnout at 66.8 percent, says election authority.
Mark Cuban broke his ‘powerful’ negotiation rule—and offered a couple $750,000 in 5 minutes on 'Shark Tank'
Mark Cuban broke one of his biggest negotiation rules on ABC's "Shark Tank," when he was first to give the founders of Rebel Cheese an investment offer.
Crowd did not heckle Biden with 'We need Trump' chant at 2021 rally | Fact check
Anti-pipeline protesters interrupted President Joe Biden's speech at a campaign rally in 2021, but they made no reference to Donald Trump.
www.usatoday.com
Playbook: DeSantis on the ropes
And senators race to secure a border security deal.
www.politico.com
Israel-Gaza live updates: Israel 'deepening the war' in Gaza: Netanyahu
Updates on the Israel-Hamas war.
Pentagon announces international task force to protect commercial vessels in Red Sea from Houthis - Washington Examiner
U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin announced the establishment of a new international effort to protect commercial vessels that have increasingly come under attack from the Houthis in the waterways in the Middle East.The Yemen-based Houthis have repeatedly attacked commercial ships with...
www.washingtonexaminer.comRuben Gallego is endorsed by Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, his ex-wife, in bid for Arizona Senate seat
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego has endorsed her ex-husband, U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego, in his campaign to move up to the Senate.
apnews.com
House Democrats send letter to Biden criticizing Netanyahu's military strategy
A group of House Democrats on Monday sent a letter to the White House arguing that Israel's military strategy in Gaza is not in the best interests of the U.S. nor Israel's own security.
www.cbsnews.comLive updates | UN delays vote on cease-fire resolution as US, Israel and Qatar hold new talks
The U.N. Security Council has delayed voting on a resolution to urgently cease hostilities in Gaza and release all Israeli hostages held by Palestinian militants.
apnews.com
YouTube mom Ruby Franke pleads guilty in child abuse case
Ruby Franke pleaded guilty to four of six charges against her Monday at the Washington County 5th District Court in Utah.
The late Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court, honored as trailblazer
The first woman to serve on the nation’s highest court will lie in repose on Monday. She died on December 1 at age 93.
apnews.com
Federal appeals court rejects former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows' request to move Georgia trial to federal court
A federal appeals court rejected former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows' request to move his Georgia state charges to federal court.
www.usatoday.com
Benjamin Netanyahu Brags He's ‘Proud’ To Have Prevented A Palestinian State
The declaration puts Israel’s prime minister at odds with President Joe Biden’s stated goals for the region.
US announces international task force to protect ships in Red Sea from Houthi strikes
The Pentagon announced the establishment of a multinational naval task force to protect commercial ships from Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden
Conservative social media app Parler planning to relaunch ahead of 2024 election
Parler was removed from Apple's and Google's app stores after it was used by participants of the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.
www.nbcnews.com
John Cornyn dubious of current immigration talks
“We do need to be aware of the fact that this is not just an exercise in the Senate,” he said.
www.politico.com
About 3 million Americans are already "climate migrants," analysis finds. Here's where they left.
Communities across the U.S. are facing greater risks from extreme weather. Some are already seeing their population shrink.
www.cbsnews.com
A tale of two Rumis – of the East and of the West
Exactly 750 years after death, Jalaluddin Mohammad Rumi remains a mystery. Was he a Muslim scholar or spiritual pundit?
Hunter Biden arraignment date set for Jan. 11 - Washington Examiner
First son Hunter Biden's arraignment date has been set for Jan. 11. According to the Central District of California's calendar, Biden will be arraigned on tax-related charges before Magistrate Judge Alka Sagar. He is being charged for a failure to file and pay taxes, evasion of assessment, false...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Biden approval rating sinks to all-time low in new national poll
President Biden's approval rating dropped to a all-time low in a new national poll from Monmouth University released Monday.
51-year-old makes an average of $10,000 per month on JustAnswer: ‘Don't rest on your laurels,’ she advises
Nora Curl has been doing antiques valuations on JustAnswer for more than a decade. Here's her advice for anyone who wants to get started.
Trump's lawyers ask full appeals court to review gag order restricting his speech in election case
Lawyers for Donald Trump have asked the full federal appeals court in Washington to review a gag order restricting the former president’s speech in the case charging him with plotting to overturn the 2020 election.
apnews.comCrypto titans launch 2024 election play with $78M super PAC spend
The crypto industry is trying to back friendly policymakers as it faces intense scrutiny from regulators.
www.politico.com
8.8 million student loan borrowers missed their first payment after pandemic pause ended | CNN Politics
Nearly 9 million borrowers missed their first student loan payment after the pandemic-related pause ended this fall, the Department of Education said Friday. That means roughly 40% of the 22 million borrowers who had bills due in October did not make payments by mid-November.
www.cnn.comUN Security Council delays vote on resolution urging cessation of hostilities in Gaza to deliver aid
The U.N. Security Council has delayed a vote on an Arab-sponsored resolution calling for a halt to hostilities in Gaza to allow unhindered access to deliver humanitarian aid to the massive number of civilians in need of food, water and medicine until Tuesday morning, as members intensified negotiati
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Father of 26-year-old hostage killed by Israeli forces rebukes Netanyahu
In an interview with NBC News’ Hallie Jackson, Alon Shamriz’s father expressed his dismay with the Israeli government: ‘They are thinking only of themselves.’
www.nbcnews.com
Law firm behind Facebook settlement will no longer recruit on Harvard campus - Washington Examiner
A law firm has decided to stop conducting on-campus interviews at Harvard due to the congressional testimony of its president, Claudine Gay. Gay appeared before the House Education and Workforce Committee earlier this month, and she avoided questions regarding students who advocate the "genocide...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
The Ziegler sex scandal timeline: Florida censures chairman accused of rape
On Dec. 17, the Florida GOP voted to strip its chair Christian Ziegler of his authority. Here is what else happened since he was accused of rape.
www.usatoday.com
Russia-Ukraine live updates: Putin submits candidacy for Russia's 2024 election; EU adopts 12th package of sanctions against Moscow
Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow has no interest in fighting NATO, noting instead that he's interested in "developing relations" with it.
Clarence Thomas’s salary complaints sparked rightwing fears he would resign
Supreme court justice’s comment to Republican congressman in 2000 worried conservatives, according to ProPublica report
DeSantis’s drama-free 2024 candidacy threatened by super PAC problems - Washington Examiner
In the months leading up to Gov. Ron DeSantis's (R-FL) announcement he would be running for president, he was portrayed as the candidate most similar to former President Donald Trump but without the drama, chaos, and vitriol. Two months before he launched his campaign in late May, he bragged...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Marvel drops actor Jonathan Majors after domestic violence trial verdict
Disney announced it would not be moving forward with Marvel star Jonathan Majors for future productions just hours after a Manhattan jury convicted him.
Family vlogger Ruby Franke pleads guilty to felony child abuse charges as part of plea
Ruby Franke, a family vlogger famous for her '8 Passengers' YouTube channel, had a hearing Monday following her arrest on child abuse charges.
www.usatoday.com
Justice Department creates database to track records of misconduct by federal law enforcement
The U.S. Justice Department has created a database to track records of misconduct by federal law enforcement officers.
apnews.com
‘Best-case scenario’ for Trump as rivals refuse to drop out
Lower-polling candidates are giving no indication they plan to step aside before voting begins.
www.politico.comTrump asks federal appeals court to reconsider its decision largely upholding gag order | CNN Politics
Former President Donald Trump is asking a federal appeals court to reconsider its decision earlier this month largely upholding the gag order issued against him in his federal election subversion case.
www.cnn.com
Pakistan uses artificial rain for the first time to fight pollution
Cloud seeding was used to counter the hazardous smog in the megacity of Lahore, one of the world’s most polluted cities.
Clarence Thomas was deep in debt when he hinted to a GOP lawmaker that he'd quit if he didn't get a pay raise: report
ProPublica reported that Thomas pushed a Republican lawmaker for a pay raise in 2000 after running into him on a flight back from a Georgia resort.
Officer speaks out after grand jury clears him in shooting of 11-year-old
Indianola Police Sgt. Greg Capers is speaking out after a grand jury cleared him in the shooting of an unarmed 11-year-old boy inside his home.
Jury finds Jonathan Majors guilty of assault and harassment of ex-girlfriend
The jury found Majors guilty Monday of assault in the third degree and harassment in the second degree, both misdemeanors.
www.nbcnews.comIn Israel's killing of 3 hostages, some see the same excessive force directed at Palestinians
While Israel says a number of hostages have died in Hamas captivity, the death of three Israelis at the hands of their own forces struck a nerve.
apnews.com
New poll reveals America's least favorite leader in Congress with shocking single-digit approval
A new poll found each of Congress leaders' with underwater approval ratings, but one clearly came out on top as America's least favorite.
UN vote postponed to Wednesday as talks continue - BBC News
Negotiations continued all day in a bid to get a ceasefire resolution passed by the security council.
www.bbc.com
‘Squad’ Democrat Ilhan Omar reveals she delivered personal warning to Biden - Washington Examiner
Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) said she warned President Joe Biden that the Muslim vote was very important to his successful 2020 election and that he should listen to their concerns over the Israel-Hamas war ahead of the 2024 election. Omar, a member of the House Democratic progressive group known as...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Israel-linked hackers claim cyberattack that hit 70% of Iran's gas stations
The cyberattack knocked out a majority of gas stations across Iran, leading to long lines of cars and angry crowds.
Conservatives move to keep abortion off the 2024 ballot
“We don't believe those rights should be subjected to majority vote.”
www.politico.comFor decades, Biden has lavished attention on Philadelphia. It might save his presidency.
Biden just marked his 19th trip to the City of Brotherly Love since becoming president. In 2024, he'll need Philadelphia's love to win a second term.
Ukraine aid will run out at the end of the month, White House warns | CNN Politics
An aid package scheduled for Ukraine later this month will be the final one unless Congress approves additional help, the White House warned Monday.
www.cnn.com
Biden administration launches law enforcement database in wake of George Floyd murder
President Joe Biden launched a new database Monday to track serious law enforcement misconduct in the wake of George Floyd's murder.
www.usatoday.com
Houthi attacks on commercial ships have upended global trade in vital Red Sea corridor
The attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea by Yemen’s Houthi rebels have scared off some of the world’s top shipping companies and oil giants.
apnews.com
Texas immigration law known as SB4, allowing state to arrest migrants, signed by Gov. Greg Abbott
The law, known as SB4, gives Texas law enforcement authorities the power to stop, arrest and jail migrants on new state charges.
www.cbsnews.comPope approves blessings for same-sex couples that must not resemble marriage
Pope Francis formally approved letting Catholic priests bless same-sex couples, the Vatican announced Monday.
apnews.com
Winter Solstice 2023: 1st day of winter is also shortest day of the year
Holiday lights and the season of cheer across the country may mask the fact that the darkest day of the year is here.
Nevada fake electors plead not guilty to state charges; trial set for March | CNN Politics
The six Nevada Republicans who served as “fake electors” for the Trump campaign in 2020 pleaded not guilty Monday to state charges.
www.cnn.com
Southwest fined $140 million by DOT over 2022 holiday travel disaster - Washington Examiner
After a yearlong investigation, Southwest Airlines has been hit with a $140 million civil penalty for its December 2022 service disruptions, the Department of Transportation said Monday. As the airline prepares for a busier end-of-year holiday period, Southwest is still reeling from last year's...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Cyclone brings floods and crocodile sightings in Australia’s northeast
Jasper was downgraded to a tropical low after leaving a trail of destruction across the state last week.
www.nbcnews.comMarvel, Disney drop actor Jonathan Majors after he's convicted of assaulting his former girlfriend
Jonathan Majors was convicted Monday of assaulting his former girlfriend. Marvel and Disney dropped him immediately.
apnews.com
Trump blasted for saying immigrants are "poisoning the blood of our country"
"They're poisoning the blood of our country," former President Trump said of undocumented migrants at a rally in Durham, New Hampshire.
www.cbsnews.comStep by step, Francis has made the Catholic Church a more welcoming place for LGBTQ people
The Catholic Church, in its doctrine, still rejects same-sex marriage and condemns any sexual relations between gay or lesbian partners as “intrinsically disordered.”
apnews.comTransportation Department hits Southwest Airlines with $140M fine for 2022 travel fiasco
Last year's travel mess left 16,900 flights canceled and more than two million passengers stranded.
www.politico.com‘Dangerous for women’: warning as Chileans vote on new draft constitution
Children and women to lose out if voters approve new document that critics say reads ‘more like a Republican party manifesto’
GOP Rep Andy Barr endorses Trump for 'strong leadership both at home and abroad'
EXCLUSIVE: Rep. Andy Barr endorsed former President Trump on Monday, telling Fox News Digital the former president is "the only candidate who can defeat Joe Biden."
Joe Biden and Hunter lunch ‘with friends’ on anniversary of fatal family car crash - Washington Examiner
President Joe Biden is publicly embracing son Hunter amid his impeachment inquiry, lunching with him in Delaware to mark the anniversary of the car crash that killed his first wife and daughter.Joe Biden and Hunter Biden were joined by others for lunch at Rocco Italian Grill and Sports Bar in...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Marvel actor Jonathan Majors guilty of assaulting ex-girlfriend
Jonathan Majors, known for starring in the Marvel universe, has been dropped by the Marvel studios.
www.bbc.com
Greek anti-terror squad investigates after a bomb was defused near riot police headquarters
Greece’s antiterrorism squad is investigating after the headquarters of the national riot police was targeted with a bomb that was defused before it could explode
Cardin 'terribly angered' by staffer sex tape as Capitol Police investigate
“I understand the Capitol Police are doing an investigation,” Cardin told reporters Monday evening.
www.politico.com
Michigan State reaches settlements with families of students slain in mass shooting
Trustees voted unanimously Friday to approve separate claims with the families of Brian Fraser, Arielle Anderson and Alexandria Verner.
www.nbcnews.com
Mark Meadows loses appeal seeking to move Georgia election case to federal court
An appeals court said Meadows' alleged conduct "was not related to his official duties" in the Trump White House.
www.cbsnews.comLandmark national security trial opens in Hong Kong for prominent activist publisher Jimmy Lai
A landmark trial opened for prominent activist publisher Jimmy Lai, who faces a possible life sentence if convicted under a law imposed by Beijing to crush dissidents.
apnews.com
Storms in US northeast kill four and leave thousands without power
Deadly flooding and high winds cancelled flights and closed schools along the US East Coast.
www.bbc.com
Pope's decision on blessing same-sex couples draws praise and need for 'reflection'
Pope Francis's decision that allows people in same-sex relationships to receive blessings has resulted in differing reactions within the Catholic Church, with some asking for additional time to allow for proper reflection.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
No more snowball fights: How to talk politics – or not – with relatives during the holidays
Experts share tips for keeping the peace this holiday season when not everyone around the dinner table has the same political beliefs.
www.usatoday.com
Pope Francis approves allowing Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples
A document from the Vatican's doctrine office released Monday details the declaration.
K Street diversity report finds worse workplace experience for minority lobbyists
The DGR survey gathered anonymous, self-reported responses from almost 900 people working in government relations.
www.politico.comA boycott call and security concerns mar Iraq's first provincial elections in a decade
Baghdad’s streets are nearly empty on Monday, the main day of polling in the country’s first provincial elections in a decade.
apnews.comHere’s How a Border Deal Could Affect People Seeking Asylum in the U.S.
An urgent bid by the Biden administration to send a fresh infusion of money to Ukraine for its war against Russia has stalled on Capitol Hill as congressional Republicans demand sweeping changes to the immigration system. Bipartisan talks on Capitol Hill to resolve the impasse have focused on...
Biden’s embrace of stricter border measures puts him at odds with key allies tasked with selling his reelection | CNN Politics
President Joe Biden’s concessions on border policy to get Ukraine aid passed have put him at odds with key allies who will be charged with mobilizing voters, multiple sources tell CNN, underscoring the political headwinds the Biden campaign faces in the upcoming election.
www.cnn.comA suspected cyberattack paralyzes the majority of gas stations across Iran
Iran’s state TV says nearly 70% of the nation’s gas pumps are out of service after possible sabotage — a reference to cyberattacks.
apnews.com
Crenshaw takes on mandatory DEI statements at colleges, universities with new House bill
Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, is introducing a new bill aimed at blocking colleges and universities that get federal funds from forcing students and staff from signing or making DEI-related statements.
Man charged with DUI after crashing into motorcade vehicle at Biden campaign headquarters | CNN Politics
The driver of a car that struck an SUV in President Joe Biden’s motorcade Sunday night, causing damage to both vehicles and appearing to startle the president as he left his campaign headquarters, has been charged with DUI according to authorities in Wilmington, Delaware.
www.cnn.comLove it or hate it, self-checkout is here to stay. But it's going through a reckoning
The promise of self-checkout has meant that customers can avoid long lines by scanning and bagging their own items. But it has also meant shoppers griping about clunky technology.
apnews.com
Industry sues to stop Utah law restricting teenage social media use
An industry group has filed a legal challenge to Utah's law imposing broad restrictions on social media for teenagers.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Eviction, threats and suicidal thoughts: Uganda's LGBTQ community endures trying year
LGBTQ activists say the Anti-Homosexuality Act has given Ugandans an implicit license to abuse and discriminate against sexual minorities.
www.nbcnews.com
Hunter goes shopping with Joe Biden days after defying congressional subpoena
Hunter Biden and his father President Biden were spotted Monday jewelry shopping and eating in Delaware just days after the younger Biden defied a congressional subpoena.
Flooding drives millions to move as climate migration patterns emerge
Flood risk and climate change are pushing millions of people to move from their homes, according to a new study by the risk analysis firm First Street Foundation.
apnews.com
Ramaswamy fires back at CNN's Van Jones following 'demagogue' swipe: 'Just shut the f--- up!'
GOP hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy had a fiery response to CNN commentator Van Jones following attacks aimed at the biotech entrepreneur calling him an "American demagogue."
Man serving life sentence for child sexual abuse escapes Texas prison
Robert Yancy Jr. was last seen wearing a black beanie and a black sweater in a 2021 Nissan Versa on Sunday, Texas authorities said.
www.nbcnews.com
4-year-old boy killed in 'unimaginable' road rage shooting in California, police say
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said the 4-year-old was sitting in the back seat when he was hit by a bullet in the torso on Friday night.
www.usatoday.com
Storied US Steel to be acquired for more than $14 billion by Nippon Steel
The all-cash acquisition of Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel by Nippon Steel sent stock soaring over 27% before the opening bell Monday.
apnews.com
Ilhan Omar personally warned Biden his re-election in trouble if he ignores 'heartbroken' young, Muslim voters
"Squad" Democrat Rep. Ilhan Omar said she personally warned President Biden to not take Muslim voters and younger voters for granted in the 2024 election.
Pakistan stunned as party of imprisoned ex-PM uses AI to replicate voice for speech
For the first time, artificial intelligence has been used to deliver a speech by Pakistan’s imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan to supporters
Suspect dead and 3 people injured after police open fire in Austin, authorities say
It is unclear how the three people got their injuries; police did not say whether they were the result of gunfire. One person was critically injured.
www.nbcnews.com
House GOP urges Cardona to enforce 2019 executive order to fight antisemitism - Washington Examiner
The Republican members of the House Education and Workforce Committee are urging Education Secretary Miguel Cardona to craft regulations meant to combat antisemitism in compliance with a Trump-era executive order. In a letter to Cardona on Monday, the 25 GOP members of the committee, which is...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Ron DeSantis’ campaign and super PAC hit with a complaint by a watchdog group
The Campaign Legal Center filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission on Monday alleging coordination between the two entities.
www.nbcnews.com4 years in prison for Nikola Corp founder for defrauding investors on claims of zero-emission trucks
The founder of Nikola Corp. has been sentenced to four years in prison for his conviction for exaggerating claims about his company's production of zero-emission 18-wheel trucks.
apnews.com
Mexico violence: Gunmen kill 12 people Christmas celebration
The victims were young people who had gathered at a venue for a religious pre-Christmas event.
www.bbc.com
Georgia election workers file new complaint against Giuliani, days after $148 million award
The complaint asks a federal judge to "permanently bar" Giuliani from "persisting in his defamatory campaign against" Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss.
www.cbsnews.comStock market today: Asian shares are mixed. Japan's central bank keeps its monetary policy unchanged
Asian shares are mixed after a seven-week winning streak on Wall Street cooled. U.S. futures were flat and oil prices edged higher.
apnews.com
Younger voters help boost Trump’s edge over Biden in latest Fox Survey
Former President Donald Trump is leading President Biden among younger voters under 45 and 30 years old, a new Fox News survey found.
Ukraine’s military chief says one of his offices was bugged
Ukraine’s military chief says a covert listening device was found in one of the offices where he works and he is hinting that other bugs were detected in other locations
Pressure mounts to scale back war as Gaza death toll nears 20,000
Follow NBC News for the latest live updates on the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza as Defense Secretary Austin arrives in the region and the death toll nears 20,000.
www.nbcnews.com
How major US stock indexes fared Monday, 12/18/2023
Stocks end mixed on Wall Street as a seven-week winning streak cooled off. The S&P 500 added 0.5% Monday. The Dow was little changed and the Nasdaq composite rose 0.6%.
apnews.com
The new FAFSA: What you need to know to get financial aid for college | CNN Politics
There’s one form prospective and current college students must submit in order to receive federal financial aid, and it looks a lot different than in prior years.
www.cnn.com
Christian Ziegler: Republican chairman in Florida suspended amid rape allegation
Calls for Christian Ziegler's resignation grow after allegations he raped a woman he and his wife dated.
www.bbc.com
Biden commemorates the 80th anniversary of the repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act
Biden said the legislation, enacted in 1882, was a measure that “weaponized our immigration system to discriminate against an entire ethnic group.”
www.nbcnews.comLargest nursing home in St. Louis closes suddenly, forcing out 170 residents
Northview Village Nursing Home in St. Louis has closed suddenly, forcing about 170 residents to be bused to other facilities.
apnews.com
8 years and 215 souls: The names of the unclaimed people buried in Hinds County’s pauper’s field
After devastated family members discovered that their loved ones had been buried in Mississippi without their knowledge, NBC News set out to learn who else was interred there.
www.nbcnews.com
Trump makes new push to dismiss Georgia RICO case on First Amendment grounds - Washington Examiner
Former President Donald Trump's Georgia election subversion case should be dismissed because Trump was exercising his First Amendment rights at the time of the alleged crimes, his attorney Steve Sadow argued in a Monday court filing.Sadow wrote in a 19-page filing that Fulton County District...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Jack Smith wants 'down and dirty' Trump convictions to influence 2024 election: Alan Dershowitz
Harvard Law professor emeritus Alan Dershowitz claims the Department of Justice is misusing the criminal justice system to influence the election on “Sunday Morning Futures."
Sedan crashes into SUV traveling with president's motorcade, driver charged with DUI
An SUV that was part of President Joe Biden's motorcade was struck by another vehicle as Biden was walking out of a dinner on Sunday night, according to reporters.
Ziwe asks George Santos, "What can we do to get you to go away?"
During the interview with comedian Ziwe, Santos showed off his Hermès bracelet and Ferragamo shoes.
www.cbsnews.comClosing prices for crude oil, gold and other commodities
Benchmark U.S. crude oil for January delivery rose $1.04 to $72.47 per barrel Monday. Brent crude for February delivery rose $1.40 to $77.95 per barrel.
apnews.com
White House and Senate negotiators race to reach a border deal, with Ukraine aid on the line | CNN Politics
Democrats and Republicans are urgently trying to reach an agreement on border policy changes before Senators leave town for the holidays, but several congressional aides are skeptical a deal can be reached as sizeable differences remain.
www.cnn.com
BP is the latest company to pause Red Sea shipments over fears of Houthi attacks
The attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea by Yemen’s Houthi rebels have scared off some of the world’s top shipping companies and oil giants
After years of decline, the Biden administration says environmental enforcement is on the upswing
The Environmental Protection Agency says it is conducting more on-site inspections of polluting industrial sites than at any time since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
apnews.com
Attorneys for Kentucky woman seeking abortion withdraw lawsuit
Attorneys for a Kentucky woman who sued demanding the right to an abortion have withdrawn the lawsuit after the woman learned her embryo no longer has cardiac activity
Why does Washington want to kill off America's 'Magnificent 7?'
Seven major American companies have dominated the global economy and are responsible for almost all the gains in the stock market this year. Why do our politicians want to destroy them?
These parents didn’t know why their children had lead poisoning. An applesauce recall offered clues.
In reports to the FDA, parents were shocked that their children had lead poisoning. It wasn’t until the recall of WanaBana’s cinnamon apple pouches that they connected the dots.
www.nbcnews.comFlorida deputy's legal team says he didn't have an obligation to stop Parkland school shooter
The attorney for a former Florida sheriff’s deputy is arguing that his client had no legal duty to confront the gunman who murdered 17 people and wounded 17 others at Parkland’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School nearly six years ago.
apnews.com
China Committee Chair Gallagher proposes Taiwan deterrence strategy, demands Pentagon classified briefing
House China Committee Chairman Mike Gallagher is requesting a classified briefing from the Pentagon to discuss ways the United States can work to aid Taiwan in deterrence efforts amid heightened aggression in the region.
Those iconic blue mail collection boxes are getting a high-tech makeover
The U.S. Postal Service is installing high-security versions in some locations around the country in a crackdown on theft this holiday season and beyond.
www.nbcnews.comLouisiana State Police reinstate trooper accused of withholding video in Black man's deadly arrest
The Louisiana State Police are reinstating a veteran trooper who had been accused of withholding graphic body-camera footage of a fatal traffic stop.
apnews.com
Lawmakers ask DOJ to probe Apple’s blocking of Android app allowing blue bubbles - Washington Examiner
A bipartisan group of congressional critics of Big Tech is asking the Department of Justice to investigate whether Apple breached antitrust laws by blocking an app that allows Android users access to iMessage. The group sent a letter to DOJ Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter late on...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
U.S. passport application wait times back to normal, State Department says
In 2021, the wait time for a passport was up to 18 weeks. Now, officials said applications will be processed within 6-8 weeks for routine service.
www.cbsnews.com
Germany's economy shrinking again in current quarter as business confidence declines
Germany's central bank says the country's economy is likely to shrink again slightly in the current fourth quarter
Bob Good prepares for fight as new hard-right leader after controversial moves inside House GOP | CNN Politics
During last week’s chairmanship election for the far-right House Freedom Caucus, Rep. Bob Good was directly pressed by board members on perhaps one of his most controversial moves inside the GOP: his decision to back Ron DeSantis over Donald Trump.
www.cnn.comState Rep. Randy Lyness says he will retire after current term and won't seek reelection in 2024
Indiana state Rep. Randy Lyness, a West Harrison Republican, plans to retire after the 2024 legislative session and will not seek reelection.
apnews.com
Freed Israeli hostage warns soldiers not to go into Hamas tunnels: ‘It’s a colossal danger’
A recently released Israel hostage warned ministers on Saturday not to send soldiers into tunnels frequented by Hamas, calling them a "colossal danger."
Quaker recalls dozens of granola bars and cereals due to a possible salmonella risk
Quaker said in a release that it “has received no confirmed reports of illness related to the products covered by this recall,” and that it had informed the FDA of the recall.
www.nbcnews.com
Here's what you need to know about the deadly salmonella outbreak tied to cantaloupes
A deadly outbreak of salmonella poisoning linked to contaminated whole and pre-cut cantaloupe continues to grow
Defense secretary to hold meeting on "reckless, dangerous" attacks by Houthis on commercial ships in Red Sea
In over a dozen incidents in the Red Sea since October, U.S. ships have either shot down drones or missiles or have had to come to the aid of ships targeted by the Houthis.
www.cbsnews.com
Mortgage giant Mr. Cooper hit with cyberattack possibly affecting more than 14 million customers
The company said it involves "substantially all of our current and former customers" sensitive personal information.
$10 million worth of meth and cocaine hidden in vats of jalapeño paste found in San Diego
Authorities found 349 packages, containing over 3,000 pounds of methamphetamine and over 500 pounds of cocaine, U.S. Customs and Border Protection said.
www.nbcnews.comReuters (Directly linked, however Reuters articles no longer unfurl)
https://www.reuters.com/world/too-many-civilians-killed-israel-hamas-conflict-uk-pm-says-2023-12-18/
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