AP Photo/ J. Scott Applewhite
Congress departs without a deal on Ukraine aid and border security, but Senate will work next week
WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress was departing Washington on Thursday without a deal to pass wartime support for Ukraine, but Senate negotiators and President Joe Biden’s administration were still racing to wrap up a border security compromise to unlock the stalemate before the end of the year.
Biden urges Israelis to protect civilian lives as national security adviser meets with Netanyahu amid developing rift | CNN Politics
President Joe Biden on Thursday said he wants the Israeli military to focus on saving civilian lives as it conducts its campaign to eliminate Hamas and faces mounting pressure over its military operations in Gaza.
www.cnn.comUkraine’s a step closer to joining the EU. Here’s what it means, and why it matters
Ukraine has received a green light to start sped-up talks on joining the European Union. That’s a big boost for war-ravaged Ukraine and a loud message to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
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Drastic border restrictions considered by Biden and the Senate reflect seismic political shift on immigration
The president's willingness to support strict border policies reflects a seismic shift in the politics of immigration over the past several years.
www.cbsnews.comAn emboldened, confident Putin says there will be no peace in Ukraine until Russia's goals are met
President Vladimir Putin said Thursday there would be no peace until Russia achieves its goals, which he says remain unchanged.
apnews.comBig pay raise for troops in defense bill sent to Biden. Conservatives stymied on cultural issues
The $886 billion bill was approved by a vote of 310-118 and now goes to President Joe Biden.
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Haley's momentum in the GOP presidential race appears to be paying off: 'The funding is coming through'
Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley touts that "the energy is really good" as she spotlighted her recent momentum in the 2024 GOP nomination race.
Congress passes contentious defense policy bill known as NDAA, sending it to Biden
The bill does not include language blocking the Pentagon's abortion travel policy or restricting gender-affirming health care for transgender service members and dependents.
www.cbsnews.comOpinion | The Most Powerful Anti-Trump Argument in the GOP Has Evaporated
With Biden’s poll numbers plummeting, Trump’s electability isn’t an issue anymore.
www.politico.com
Cruz blocks bill banning Russian uranium imports, citing nixed NDAA provisions
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) is retaliating against the House Energy and Commerce Committee for stripping provisions he favored from the annual defense bill, and he’s vowing to block every unanimous consent effort to pass bills from the committee.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Schumer vows vote next week over Ukraine-Israel aid package ‘no matter what’ | CNN Politics
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced on Thursday that the chamber will continue to work next week to allow more time for bipartisan talks in the hope of reaching a deal to pass an emergency aid package with assistance for Ukraine, Israel and other priorities – and said the Senate will...
www.cnn.comApology letters by Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro in Georgia election case are one sentence long
The apology letters by Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro in the Georgia election interference case are just one sentence long.
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White House shoots down rumors about Biden and Harris being split over major 2024 issue
The White House rejected details in a report that Vice President Kamala Harris has pushed President Joe Biden and others in the administration to show more public concern for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
www.washingtonexaminer.comThe Republican leading the probe of Hunter Biden has his own shell company and complicated friends
James Comer, who is leading the House Republicans' impeachment investigation of Joe Biden, has focused on the Biden family’s use of “shell companies.”
apnews.com
Kentucky Supreme Court upholds congressional boundaries passed by GOP-led legislature
The court rejected Democratic claims that the majority party’s mapmaking amounted to gerrymandering in violation of the state’s constitution.
www.politico.com
Impeachment vote boosts Biden campaign fundraising
A donor pitch linked to the impeachment vote was the top performing ask of the 2024 cycle for VP Kamala Harris, a Biden campaign source told CNBC.
Ex-Hunter Biden prosecutor refused to answer most questions in interview, Jordan says
A prosecutor who had a heavy hand in building the Department of Justice's case against Hunter Biden would not answer most of lawmakers' questions during a closed-door interview with Congress on Thursday, according to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH).
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Trump's gag order challenge in New York AG Letitia James' civil suit rejected
Back in October, Judge Arthur Engoron imposed a partial gag order to prevent all parties from engaging in any verbal attacks against court staff after former President Donald Trump criticized a member of the judge’s office on social media.
Trump's first criminal trial is scheduled to begin in March but legal appeals threaten that date
It's looking increasingly unlikely that Donald Trump's 2020 election interference trial in Washington will start in March.
apnews.com
Paul Ryan calls Trump a 'populist, authoritarian narcissist'
The former House speaker has already insisted that Trump will cause a Republican loss in 2024.
www.politico.com
Analysis: Russia’s tiny, Pyrrhic advances in Ukraine’s east
Russia is making incremental inroads in eastern Ukraine and may soon hold the strategic town of Avdiivka.
Michigan Republicans are overwhelmed by election denialism. It could cost them in 2024
Michigan GOP Chairwoman Kristina Karamo is far from alone in her election denialism.
Jury in Rudy Giuliani defamation trial begins deliberations after he opts not to testify
Two former Georgia election workers sued Giuliani for defamation, alleging he orchestrated a smear campaign against them.
www.cbsnews.com
Both sides have rested their case in Trump's civil fraud trial. What happens now?
After 44 days of testimony, Donald Trump's civil fraud is set to resume in January with closing arguments. Here are three questions regarding where things stand.
Michigan court rejects challenges to Trump's spot on 2024 primary ballot
The Michigan Court of Appeals won’t stop former President Donald Trump from appearing on the state’s 2024 Republican primary ballot.
apnews.com
Trump is leading big in Iowa, but these GOP women are looking at someone else | CNN Politics
Shanen Ebersole calls the rolling hills of southwest Iowa her happy place, where time with the grazing cows is her way to relax and reset.
www.cnn.comGavin Newsom: DeSantis isn’t anti-woke, he’s ‘anti-Black’
The California governor castigated his Republican rival on “Late Night with Seth Meyers.”
www.politico.com
Dance company featured in Jill Biden’s Christmas video promotes ‘prison abolition,’ ‘defund the police’ groups
The New York tap dancing troupe enlisted by first lady Jill Biden promotes far-left groups, including a "radical feminists of color" group, as well as "prison abolition."
Dismayed by Moscow's war, Russian volunteers are joining Ukrainian ranks to fight Putin's troops
The Siberian Battalion is unique in many ways. It's soldiers are Russians who have joined Ukraine's military ranks to fight against their homeland.
apnews.com
Presidential motorcade to NIH HQ causes major traffic delays on DC Beltway
President Joe Biden's motorcade delayed traffic Thursday in Washington, D.C.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Biden administration to impose inflation penalties on dozens of drugmakers
The Biden administration said on Thursday it will subject dozens of drugmakers to inflation penalties to reduce out-of-pocket costs for Medicare recipients.
Jury deliberations begin in Rudy Giuliani defamation trial: Highlights
Latest news and updates as Giuliani awaits the jury's verdict in his damages trial after being found liable for defamation of two Georgia election workers.
www.nbcnews.com
Will the military officers stuck in Tommy Tuberville's 10-month hold be paid? Senate passes back pay push
The Senate passed legislation that provides back pay for military officers whose promotions were delayed.
www.usatoday.com
'It's kind of bittersweet': McCarthy says goodbye
“It's not the timing I wanted," former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy told reporters in an exit interview.
www.politico.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.
Jurors deciding how much Giuliani must pay for lies in a Georgia election workers' case
Wandrea “Shaye” Moss and her mother, Ruby Freeman, are seeking tens of millions of dollars in damages over Giuliani’s false claims.
apnews.com
Andy Biggs calls for contempt charges against Eric Swalwell for aiding Hunter Biden
Rep. Andy Biggs, R-Ariz., called for Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., to be held in contempt of Congress for helping Hunter Biden secure a spot for his Wednesday morning press conference outside the Senate side of the U.S. Capitol.
Fighting for their lives: Women and the impact of abortion restrictions in post-Roe America
ABC News interviewed 18 women as part of the series "On the Brink" about abortion in America after Roe v. Wade was overturned.
Senate approves back pay for officers caught in Tuberville military blockade
The Senate approved a bill to compensate senior officers for lost pay due to Sen. Tommy Tuberville's (R-AL) monthslong blockade on military promotions.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
S Korea scrambles jets after Chinese, Russian aircraft enter defence zone
Four Russian, two Chinese aircraft crossed into Korea Air Defense Identification Zone over Sea of Japan.
Hunter Biden worried he'll have to flee the country if Trump wins in 2024: Report
Hunter Biden has privately told people he worries he may have to "flee" the U.S. if Trump becomes president again, according to a new report.
Experts at odds over result of UN climate talks in Dubai; 'Historic,' 'pipsqueak' or something else?
The climate negotiations that just finished in Dubai hit upon the essence of compromise, finding common language that everyone accepted, at times grudgingly.
apnews.com
Supreme Court leaves Illinois assault weapons ban in place
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed a bill banning the sale of so-called assault weapons and high-capacity magazines in January.
www.cbsnews.com
Karine Jean-Pierre blows up when pressed on Biden connection to Hunter's business dealings: 'No evidence!'
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre lashed out when pressed on President Biden's connection to his son's foreign business associates, claiming he didn't do anything wrong.
Biden administration pushes Israel to prepare to scale back war in Gaza
President Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan discussed "a shift in emphasis" in Gaza during meetings Thursday in Israel.
www.usatoday.com
Israel tells U.S. its current phase of heavy fighting likely to finish in 2-3 weeks, two officials say
This wouldn't mean an end to combat operations, but a U.S. official said it would bring about lower levels of bombing in Gaza.
www.cbsnews.comVirginia lawmaker with Parkinson's helps lead the charge in creating panel to fight the illness
Members of the House have introduced a bill, likely the last of the year, they hope may one day stomp out Parkinson's disease. The bill is named for Virginia Rep.
apnews.com
Israel puts $400K bounty on Hamas leader's head, drops leaflets in Gaza
Israel is offering up to $1 million in cash rewards for information leading to the capture of senior Hamas leadership including Yahya Sinwar, the mastermind behind the Oct. 7 attacks.
Putin says goals in Ukraine have 'not changed' and war will continue until Kyiv agrees a deal
Russian President Vladimir Putin held his annual phone-in with the Russian public on Thursday, as well as his end-of-year press conference.
Newsom enacts spending freeze to tackle California’s $68 billion budget deficit
To address California’s projected $68 billion budget deficit, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s (D-CA) Department of Finance requested a spending freeze for state agencies.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Ex-FBI counterintelligence official gets over 4 years in prison for aiding Russian oligarch
The judge said Charles McGonigal harmed national security by repeatedly flouting sanctions meant to put economic pressure on Russia to get results without military force.
www.politico.comHouse Approves Biden Impeachment Inquiry as It Hunts for an Offense
WASHINGTON — The House voted Wednesday to formally open an impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden, pushing forward with a yearlong Republican investigation that has failed to produce evidence of anything approaching high crimes or misdemeanors. Republicans said the vote was needed to give...
Denmark and Germany announce arrests of terror suspects, including suspected Hamas members
Denmark and Germany have announced arrests of several terror suspects, including alleged Hamas members suspected of plotting attacks on Jews in Europe over the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.
apnews.com
White House spokesperson accuses CNN anchor of pushing GOP Hunter Biden talking point in tense exchange
White House Spokesperson for Oversight and Investigations Ian Sams accused a CNN anchor of pushing a GOP talking point on Hunter Biden's business dealings.
Putin says at news conference he hopes to "find a solution" on Americans Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan
Vladimir Putin held his first end-of-year news conference since Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022.
www.cbsnews.com
Iran warns US will face ‘problems’ with Red Sea task force plans
US and allies in talks to form multinational task force to address attacks by Iran-aligned Houthis on ships in Red Sea.
Biden hosts four NASA astronauts, the first crew aiming to fly around the moon in a half-century
The four astronauts assigned to fly around the moon for the first time in 50 years have met with President Joe Biden at the White House.
apnews.com
Jan. 6 rioter with 'Foxmania' pleads guilty to felony Capitol attack charge
“You want war?” Anthony Alexander Antonio shouted during the Jan. 6 attack. “We got war. 1776 all over again.”
www.nbcnews.com
Jerusalem deputy mayor referred to Hamas militants as 'subhuman' in X post | Fact check
King told USA TODAY the circulating translations of his since-deleted X post are accurate.
www.usatoday.com
Zelenskyy hails ‘victory’ as EU agrees to open membership talks for Ukraine
European Council President Charles Michel says agreement a ‘signal of hope for their people and for our continent’.
Israel-Gaza live updates: IDF says it's discovered one of Hamas' biggest tunnels under Gaza
Live updates on the Israel-Hamas war.
Vulnerable House Republicans weigh risks of Biden impeachment probe
Democrats eager to highlight GOP votes as they take on competitive districts.
www.politico.com
FEC makes it easier for candidates to use campaign dollars to pay themselves | CNN Politics
Starting next year, federal candidates can more easily use campaign funds to pay themselves salaries, under a rule approved Thursday by federal election regulators.
www.cnn.com
House passes bill allowing whole milk in schools, but it may spoil in the Senate
School children will have a lot more options when it comes to their milk selection if the House of Representatives has its way.
www.washingtonexaminer.comIsraeli military veteran tapped as GOP candidate in special election to replace George Santos
Republicans have picked a little-known county lawmaker who once served in the Israeli military as their candidate in a special election to replace the ousted congressman.
apnews.com
EU at critical juncture over aid to Ukraine at the bloc's final summit of 2023
Internal divisions within the EU are threatening any significant action toward Kyiv.
Bipartisan bill would prevent millionaires from taking unemployment checks
A bipartisan group of lawmakers from the House and Senate on Thursday introduced legislation to prevent millionaires from taking unemployment checks.
Russian gas giant Gazprom makes £39m profit in North Sea
The state-owned Russian energy firm earned £39m from its Dutch-UK gas field in 2022, accounts show.
www.bbc.com
Indiana Rep Carson refuses to agree or disagree with State Department's designation of Hamas as terrorist org
Rep. Andre Carson, a Democrat from Indiana, refused to answer a reporter's question Thursday on whether or not he agreed with Hamas being designated a terrorist organization.
Israel-Hamas war updates: Netanyahu thanks US for support, weapons
These were the Israel-Hamas war updates for Thursday, December 14.
Older Americans to pay less for some drug treatments as drugmakers penalized for big price jumps
Hundreds of thousands of older Americans could pay less for outpatient drug treatments beginning early next year.
apnews.com
US has collected intel it could use to judge Israel’s conduct of war
The U.S. has been gathering information about Israel’s tactics in Gaza since the start of the war and provided those reports to lawmakers.
www.politico.com
Reality TV show about Diddy’s family is pulled amid sexual assault lawsuits
The “show was in the nascent stages and is not currently in production,” a spokesperson for Disney said.
www.nbcnews.com
How much environmental damage is Israel’s war on Gaza causing?
Israel’s military onslaught has devastated built and natural environments in Gaza.
How Youngkin took the Capitals and Wizards from under DC's nose
Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-VA) and other Virginia leaders proudly touted a plan alongside Washington Capitals and Wizards owner Ted Leonsis to bring both teams to a new arena in Alexandria, Virginia, leaving Washington, D.C., leaders scrambling to prevent the move.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
As House adjourns, Senate delays holiday recess to work on immigration deal
Majority Leader Chuck Schumer told colleagues the Senate will be back in session Monday.
www.nbcnews.com
Carnegie Mellon graduate sues university for 'culture of antisemitism'
A Jewish graduate of Carnegie Mellon University has filed a lawsuit against the institution, alleging that the university maintained a "culture of antisemitism" and failed to address incidents of antisemitism directed against her.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
U.S. terrorist watchlist grows to 2 million people — nearly doubling in 6 years
"Those 2 million people who are on the list are on there for a reason," one national security official said. But those who believe they were wrongfully added struggle to clear their names.
www.cbsnews.comHungry, thirsty and humiliated: Israel's mass arrest campaign sows fear in northern Gaza
The Israeli military has rounded up hundreds of Palestinians across the northern Gaza Strip, separating families and forcing men to strip to their underwear before trucking some to a detention camp on the beach.
apnews.comSen. Kyrsten Sinema says 'failure is not an option' in border security talks
Sen. Kyrsten Sinema said Congress must negotiate a deal on immigration policy because of the “humanitarian crisis” along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Biden, under pressure over Gaza war, tells Israel to ‘be more careful’
Comments come as administration pushes for some changes in conduct of Gaza war, even as Israel appears unreceptive.
Charles McGonigal, ex-FBI official, sentenced to 50 months for working with Russian oligarch
The FBI's former counterintelligence chief in New York accepted secret payments from a sanctioned Russian oligarch.
www.cbsnews.com
Zelenskyy did not buy a $20 million Florida mansion; property is still for sale | Fact check
Zelenskyy does not appear in any searches of property owners in that county. The pictured mansion is in a different city and remains for sale.
www.usatoday.com
Iraq links Baghdad US embassy attackers to security services
Many alleged assailants arrested, search continues to ‘reach all those involved’ in December 7 incident.
Senate passes defense policy bill with 5.2% pay raise for troops, the biggest boost in decades
The Senate has passed a defense policy bill that authorizes the biggest pay bump for troops in more than two decades.
apnews.com
Sinema ‘can see the deal’ on Ukraine-border as Schumer cuts recess
The majority leader said the Senate will vote on the president's supplemental spending request next week, hoping a border agreement materializes by then.
www.politico.com
Israel-Gaza latest news: Israel warns war with Hamas could take 'several' more months - BBC News
The Israeli PM vows again to destroy Hamas, as bombing continues in Gaza and communications networks go down.
www.bbc.com
McCarthy friend-turned-foe Burchett gives blunt answer about Congress's productivity
As Congress looks to wrap up work for the year, Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) doesn't believe it has been productive, taking a jab at his colleagues under former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s (R-CA) leadership.
www.washingtonexaminer.comZelenskyy makes first visit to US military headquarters in Germany, voices optimism about US aid
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his first visit Thursday to the U.S. military headquarters in Germany where allied leaders coordinate the delivery of weapons and other aid to the war effort. “We expect that the U.S. Congress will soon adopt the crucial decision to continue such...
Senior Hamas official threatens Blinken, says America must 'pay the price' for Gaza blood: report
A top Hamas official has called for violence against the allies of Israel, specifically attacking American and British "interests" as a price for the deaths of Gaza citizens.
Ukraine gets EU membership boost, but no new European aid, after setback in US
European Union leaders failed to agree on a $55 billion aid package for Ukraine and on the renegotiation of the EU budget.
apnews.com
GM’s Cruise robotaxi unit dismisses nine ‘key leaders’ amid safety investigation
The company also faces regulatory pressure and fines for potentially misleading or withholding information about a recent accident.
www.nbcnews.com
US has a trove of intel on Israel’s conduct of war
The U.S. has collected intelligence and formulated detailed assessments related to both Israel and Hamas military movements and tactics in Gaza since the war began in October, according to two people familiar with the intelligence.
www.politico.com
Nikki Haley is trying to shatter the presidential glass ceiling. She rarely mentions it | CNN Politics
Nikki Haley is trying to break the highest glass ceiling in politics, but you won’t hear her say so – at least not directly.
www.cnn.com
Sen. Kevin Cramer's son's charges changed from manslaughter to murder by North Dakota judge
A North Dakota judge approved a change to Ian Cramer's, son of Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND), charges on Thursday, upgrading his most serious charge from felony manslaughter to negligent homicide.
www.washingtonexaminer.comUS Rep. Drew Ferguson, a Georgia Republican, says he won't seek reelection in 2024
A Republican congressman says he won't seek reelection to his Georgia seat in 2024. Rep. Drew Ferguson said Thursday that he plans to leave office after finishing his term next year, saying he looks forward to spending more time with his family.
apnews.com
Ukraine’s Zelenskyy faces doubters and detractors in US and EU
Republicans say there is no hope for funding approval this year, but Europe may be gearing up for an invitation.
Geminid meteor shower: Where, when and how to watch it
Considered an annual favourite, the Geminid meteor shower which peaks tonight is believed to be intensifying each year.
Hong Kong puts bounties on pro-democracy activists, including American citizen, under China-imposed law
Hong Kong police accused five activists based overseas of breaching a harsh national security law imposed by Beijing and offered rewards of 1 million dollars for information leading to each of their arrests.
Atlanta asks court to overturn order allowing nonresidents to participate in 'Stop Cop City' petition
Attorneys for Atlanta asked a federal appeals court to overturn a lower court’s decision allowing nonresidents of the city to sign a petition as part of the effort to put “Stop Cop City,” a movement to block the proposed training center for police and firefighters, on the ballot.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
This may be Biden’s best hope of reversing his slide with Black and brown voters | CNN Politics
President Joe Biden’s weakness in polls among non-White voters is boosting Republican hopes that the GOP is poised to extend its most important political breakthrough of modern times – and potentially to reshape the competition between the two parties along the way.
www.cnn.com
New York Republicans choose ex-Israel Defense Forces soldier as nominee to replace George Santos
County party leaders selected the Nassau County legislator to be the GOP nominee in February’s special election.
www.nbcnews.com
Hundreds of young children killed playing with guns, CDC reports
From 2003 to 2021, 1,262 unintentional gun deaths of children were reported in the U.S.
www.cbsnews.com
Bennet blocks Senate approval of must-pass FAA bill over border fight
Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO) placed a hold on the short-term Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill on Thursday to force senators to finish negotiations before the end of the year on border security measures that could unlock GOP support for aid to Ukraine and Israel.
www.washingtonexaminer.comAppeals court rebuffs Trump’s challenge to New York gag order
The gag order bars Trump from commenting on the staff of the judge overseeing Trump’s civil fraud trial.
www.politico.com
Senate passes bill giving retroactive pay bump to service members impacted by Tommy Tuberville's hold
The bill, passed by unanimous consent, now heads to the House.
www.nbcnews.com
Takeaways from the CNN town halls with 2024 Republican candidates | CNN Politics
A series of CNN town halls with Republican presidential contenders — though months apart — offered windows into some of the themes that have dominated the party’s 2024 primary from its outset and that continue to play central roles just weeks before the first votes are cast.
www.cnn.comEPA begins formal review of vinyl chloride, toxic chemical that burned in Ohio train derailment
The Biden administration is initiating a formal evaluation of risks posed by vinyl chloride, the cancer-causing chemical that burned in a towering plume of toxic black smoke following a fiery train derailment earlier this year in eastern Ohio.
apnews.com
Former FBI spy hunter gets 4 years in prison for helping Putin's 'henchman'
Charles McGonigal, a former FBI counterintelligence official, was sentenced to four years for helping Oleg Deripaska avoid U.S. sanctions.
www.usatoday.com
Kevin McCarthy reflects on time in office and airs grievances on his way out the door
After nearly 17 years in Congress, Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) cast his last vote in the House on Thursday as he prepares to leave the House at the end of this year.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Congress passes $886 billion defense policy bill, Biden to sign into law
The bill includes a four-month extension of Section 702, a controversial surveillance authority, giving lawmakers more time to either reform or keep the program.
www.nbcnews.com
Idaho college murders: Home where students were killed to be demolished at end of semester
The off-campus house where the Idaho murders were committed is set the be torn down just as fall semester ends.
Conned, exploited, trapped: Romania’s new flock of Asian delivery riders
The jobs and conditions that await Sri Lankans barely resemble the opportunities offered to them by shady agents.
Senate expected to return to DC next week, hoping to finish border talks
The Senate was scheduled to start recess as soon as Thursday and not return until the new year, but Chuck Schumer said negotiations on the border are progressing.
www.politico.com
GM’s Cruise laying off 900, or 24% of its workforce
The layoffs are the latest turmoil for the robotaxi startup and come one day after Cruise dismissed nine “key leaders” for the company’s response to the October accident.
www.nbcnews.com
Massachusetts health officials want to open controversial supervised injection sites for drug use
Massachusetts health officials are encouraging the state to open controversial safe injection sites that would create state-sanctioned areas for people to use drugs.
www.washingtonexaminer.comThe average long-term US mortgage rate dips below 7% to its lowest level since early August
The average rate on a 30-year mortgage dropped to 6.95% from 7.03% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 6.31%.
apnews.com
White House refutes report of Biden-Harris split on Palestinians
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Thursday refuted a report that Vice President Kamala Harris and President Biden were at odds over support for Palestinians.
Michigan appeals court rejects challenges to Trump's spot on 2024 primary ballot
The decision was similar to one from the Minnesota Supreme Court, which said Trump could stay on the state’s primary ballot because the election is a party-run contest.
www.nbcnews.com
Inside Putin's carefully choreographed annual news conference
The four-hour TV extravaganza was inescapable, writes BBC Russia Editor Steve Rosenberg.
www.bbc.com
Biden touts prescription drug savings for older Americans
Medicare enrollees next year could save on dozens of medications under a federal law which assesses inflation penalties on pharmaceutical companies.
www.usatoday.com
Lawsuit alleges ex-Harvard Medical School professor used own sperm to secretly impregnate patient
Sarah Depoian's daughter conducted a home DNA test and discovered Dr. Merle Berger was her biological father, according to the lawsuit.
www.nbcnews.comA Navy officer jailed in Japan over a deadly car crash is transferred to US custody, his family says
A Navy officer jailed in Japan over a car crash that killed two Japanese citizens has been transferred into American custody and returned to the United States, where he was booked into a federal detention center.
apnews.com
‘He has no right to offer defenseless civil servants up to a virtual mob’
Attorneys for Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss are urging a jury to award the women $24 million apiece for Rudy Giuliani’s defamation against them.
www.politico.com
Jill Biden releases White House Christmas video featuring tap dancers performing "The Nutcracker"
First lady Jill Biden offered up some holiday cheer on Wednesday, sharing a video of tap dancers galavanting around the decorated White House.
www.cbsnews.com
Body of Alabama inmate found dead in prison was returned to family with heart missing, lawsuit says
Brandon Dotson’s relatives also said they are still waiting to find out how he died on Nov. 16 at Ventress Correctional Facility in Clayton.
www.nbcnews.comStock market today: Wall Street rises again as the Dow ticks to another record
Most of Wall Street rose following its big rally from the day before on excitement that several cuts to interest rates may indeed be coming next year.
apnews.com
Four charged by feds, accused of running an $80 million ‘pig butchering’ scheme
Lu Zhang, 36, Justin Walker, 31, Joseph Wong, 32, and Hailong Zhu, 40, allegedly used dating services and social media platforms to send unsolicited messages to victims.
www.nbcnews.com
Ex-FBI intel chief Charles McGonigal gets over 4 years in prison
Mr McGonigal is accused of trying to help a Russian oligarch get off a sanctions list.
www.bbc.com
Biden urges Israel to 'be more careful' going after Hamas
President Joe Biden is increasingly taking a tougher stance on Israel, urging the ally to exercise more caution as it tries to eliminate Hamas, the terrorist organization that is rooted in the Gaza Strip and carried out the deadliest attack in Israel's history two months ago.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Netanyahu video calling ICC war crimes probe 'pure antisemitism' is from 2021 | Fact check
The video statement predates the start of the 2023 war between Israel and Hamas.
www.usatoday.com
Why Argentina's shock measures may be the best hope for its ailing economy
The painful economic steps that Argentina’s new president, Javier Milei, announced this week sound draconian: Slashing the currency’s value in half.
apnews.com
EU to open membership talks with Ukraine and Moldova
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky hails the decision as "a victory" for his country and Europe.
www.bbc.comYellen outlines strategy to mimimize drama with China in 2024
The remarks come as the Biden administration is continuing its review of the tariffs that former President Donald Trump imposed on more than $300 billion worth of Chinese goods to determine whether any changes should be made.
www.politico.com
New York Republicans nominate ex-Israeli soldier in special election for Santos’ seat | CNN Politics
New York Republicans have nominated Nassau County legislator Mazi Melesa Pilip in the special election to succeed recently expelled GOP Rep. George Santos in the state’s 3rd Congressional District.
www.cnn.comGuyana and Venezuela agree to refrain from using force, but fail to resolve territorial dispute
The leaders of Guyana and Venezuela promised in a tense meeting that neither side will use threats or force against the other, but failed to reach agreement.
apnews.com
Prosecutor Lesley Wolf defends herself in House testimony about Hunter Biden
The former assistant U.S. attorney told Congress that she is still constrained by DOJ policy from speaking fully and that she has faced threats related to the Hunter Biden investigation.
www.nbcnews.com
US Supreme Court lets Illinois assault weapon ban stand - for now
The Supreme Court has denied a request to put a temporary hold on the law pending an appeal.
www.bbc.comTaliban sending Afghan women to prison to protect them from gender-based violence, says UN report
A U.N. report says Taliban officials are sending Afghan women to prison to protect them from gender-based violence.
apnews.com
Inside McCarthy’s farewell tour as he prepares to exit Congress | CNN Politics
Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy embarked on a farewell tour this week as he prepares to leave Congress at the end of this year, commemorating his 16-year career with floor speeches, a party and even a photo line.
www.cnn.com
House GOP campaign arm head lays down 2024 marker: "We're gonna grow the majority"
He added he's disappointed by a New York redistricting court decision that could yield Democrats several more House seats.
www.politico.com
Trump leads Biden in seven key battleground states; scores points on the economy
A new poll shows President Joe Biden trailing behind former President Donald Trump in seven key battleground states.
www.usatoday.com
DOJ's handling of Hunter Biden case is 'inexplicable,' says Turley, as ex-prosecutor faces questioning
FOX News contributor Jonathan Turley reacted to the Department of Justice allowing the statute of limitations on Hunter Biden's unpaid taxes to expire.
Suspect charged in fatal stabbing of priest had 'lengthy' criminal history in multiple states: Prosecutor
The suspect accused of fatally stabbing a Nebraska priest after breaking into a church was ordered held without bond during his arraignment on Thursday.
Trump sets expectations for Iowa: He wants to win — by a lot
At a rally in Iowa on Wednesday night, Trump said a big margin of victory would be “so, so powerful.”
www.nbcnews.com
How major US stock indexes fared Thursday, 12/14/2023
Stocks closed modestly higher on Wall Street, enough to push the Dow Jones Industrial Average to its second straight record high.
apnews.com
Congress claws back hiring and firing power for the Capitol building’s top manager
A provision tucked into the NDAA will make Congress, not the president, the final decider over the Architect of the Capitol.
www.politico.com
CDC warns of 'urgent need' to boost vaccine coverage as winter virus activity picks up,
Rising rates of flu, Covid and RSV prompted the agency to urge clinicians to push for more vaccinations.
www.nbcnews.com
Hate crime investigation underway after large menorah destroyed, thrown in lake in Oakland, California
Police have opened a hate crime investigation after a 9-foot-tall menorah was destroyed and thrown into a lake in Oakland, California.
Navy officer released from Japanese prison booked into California federal prison | CNN Politics
US Navy officer Lt. Ridge Alkonis, who was jailed in Japan for negligent driving that resulted in the death of two people, has been booked into a federal prison in Los Angeles following his transfer to the US, according to a family spokesperson and the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
www.cnn.com
'She was like a tsunami' - the unstoppable rise of Bonmati
From the moment she was named, Aitana Bonmati has stood out from the rest and stood up for something more than herself.
www.bbc.comClosing prices for crude oil, gold and other commodities
Benchmark U.S. crude oil for January delivery rose $2.11 to $71.58 per barrel Thursday. Brent crude for February delivery rose $2.35 to $76.61 per barrel.
apnews.com
There’s ‘long flu,’ too: Influenza can lead to long-lasting symptoms, study finds
Patients who were hospitalized with the flu were at an increased risk for lingering lung problems, among other health issues, 18 months after their illness.
www.nbcnews.com
Paul Ryan knocks Donald Trump as an 'authoritarian narcissist,' praises Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger
Former House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wisc., bashed Donald Trump Wednesday, labeling him an “authoritarian narcissist."
www.usatoday.com
Rudy Giuliani made it ‘dangerous’ for Georgia election workers, attorney says in closing arguments in defamation case | CNN Politics
Rudy Giuliani didn’t see two former Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss as “human beings” when he spread conspiracy theories about them after the 2020 election, their attorney told a Washington, DC, jury Thursday during closing arguments in the defamation damages trial.
www.cnn.com
New Orleans religious leaders band together for solution on city's spotty power
The Community Lighthouse Project was spearheaded by a conglomerate of leaders from churches, synagogues, mosques and other non-profits to build disaster response hubs.
Opinion: Trump shouldn’t look for help from the Jan. 6 case the Supreme Court accepted | CNN
Trump’s case is different from the Supreme Court review granted to Joseph Fischer, the man appealing multiple federal crimes for his role in the January 6 breach of the US Capitol, writes Dennis Aftergut.
www.cnn.com
Andre Braugher died from lung cancer, his rep confirms
Actor Andre Braugher died from lung cancer, his rep confirmed this week.
Drew Ferguson and Wiley Nickel won't seek reelection to their House seats
Ferguson served as chief deputy whip for Republicans from 2019 through 2023.
www.politico.com
Congress passes $886 billion defense bill with Ukraine aid and military raises
Congress passes the National Defense Authorization Act, providing more aid for Ukraine and pay raises for troops.
www.usatoday.com
Jordan says former prosecutor who allegedly scuttled Hunter investigation 'refused' to answer questions
Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, said Lesley Wolf, the federal prosecutor accused of limiting questions during a Hunter Biden probe, refused to answer Judiciary Committee questions on Thursday.
Top critic of college presidents hosts fundraiser for Chris Christie
Billionaire hedge fund investor Bill Ackman has been outspoken about pushing back against antisemitism on college campuses.
www.nbcnews.com
Michigan Court of Appeals rules Trump can remain on 2024 GOP primary ballot
Michigan’s Court of Appeals ruled on Thursday that Donald Trump could remain on the state’s 2024 GOP primary ballot.
Megyn Kelly reveals what CNN host did to make her more interested in Ramaswamy's message
Megyn Kelly shared her takeaways from CNN's town hall event Wednesday with Vivek Ramaswamy.
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Major pro-Israel group accuses Biden of fanning flames of antisemitism with claim of ‘indiscriminate bombing’
The Zionist Organization of America accused President Biden of spouting "anti-Israel falsehoods that will increase attacks against American Jews."
Men charged with illegal killing of 3,600 birds, including eagles to sell
A federal grand jury indictment says two men killed about 3,600 birds, including bald and golden eagles, during a “killing spree” on Montana’s Flathead Indian Reservation and elsewhere
Here’s what’s in the $886 billion defense bill | CNN Politics
The House and Senate have approved a $886.3 billion defense policy bill, which would provide the largest raise for service members in more than two decades, temporarily extend a controversial surveillance program and strengthen the US posture in the Indo-Pacific region to deter Chinese actions.
www.cnn.com
Hong Kong's universities shrivel in Beijing's grip
Academics are leaving a city which at one time attracted top talent for its world-class universities.
www.bbc.com
Researchers find possible cause of morning sickness: What this means for pregnant women
Researchers find a possible cause of morning sickness, a discovery that could eventually lead to better treatment options for women.
Elon Musk is funding a new school planning to open in Austin, Texas | CNN Business
Associates of Elon Musk are planning to launch a new primary and secondary school, and ultimately a university, in Austin, Texas, with the help of a nearly $100 million donation from the billionaire.
www.cnn.com
Democrat Wiley Nickel to leave Congress after N.C. redistricting, teeing up 2026 Senate run
Several North Carolina Democrats have opted not to run again in 2024 after GOP-led redistricting changed their seats dramatically.
www.nbcnews.com
Jonathan Majors: Marvel movie actor awaits verdict in assault case
Actor Jonathan Majors could face up to a year in jail after being accused by his ex-girlfriend.
www.bbc.com
Hamas official says his startling claim about Israel was a 'misunderstanding': Live update
Hamas, since its inception in 1987, has called for armed resistance and the elimination of Israel.
www.usatoday.com
George McGinnis, NBA Hall of Famer, dies at 73 after complications from a cardiac arrest
McGinnis' trademark one-handed jump shot helped him become an instant cornerstone in Indiana’s two title runs as well as the Philadelphia 76ers turnaround in the mid-1970s.
www.nbcnews.com
13-year-old charged after allegedly planning a mass shooting at Ohio synagogue in September, according to court docs | CNN
A 13-year-old in Ohio is facing criminal charges after allegedly crafting “a detailed plan” for a mass shooting at a synagogue in September, according to court documents obtained by CNN.
www.cnn.com
Five times the Hunter Biden influence peddling story changed
Hunter Biden’s speech from the Capitol grounds on Wednesday watered down a denial of wrongdoing that has evolved significantly since President Joe Biden first addressed the issue.
www.washingtonexaminer.comKamala Harris pushes White House to be more sympathetic toward Palestinians
Her response to the Israel-Hamas war underscores how Democrats are walking a fine line between pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian constituencies.
www.politico.com
IRS whistleblowers respond to Hunter Biden: 'Ample evidence' of his father's involvement
IRS whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler allege "ample evidence" supporting the claim that President Biden was involved in son Hunter Biden's business deals.
A Latino Democrat aims to flip a congressional seat in Nebraska — and make history too
State Sen. Tony Vargas, 39, has mounted another challenge to GOP Rep. Don Bacon, after coming within fewer than 6,000 votes of defeating him in 2022.
www.nbcnews.com
230,000 more RSV shots on the way after pressure from Biden officials
The additional doses come amid shortages that have left parents and providers scrambling for shots.
www.politico.com
White Christmas wishes may need a miracle with widespread warmth expected
The week leading up to Christmas is forecast to have above average temperatures for 47 of the lower 48 states.
www.nbcnews.com
