(AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
House passes bill to extend government funding for 1 week
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Democratic-led House passed a short-term spending bill Wednesday to keep government agencies funded at current levels through Dec. 23, giving lawmakers more time to craft a roughly $1.7 trillion appropriations package that would cover the full fiscal year.
Trump tries to rally the troops for McCarthy amid House GOP mutiny - Washington Examiner
Former President Donald Trump has been flexing his influence from the sidelines to shore up support for House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) among the right-ward flank of the GOP House caucus. Despite Trump's efforts working the phone lines, McCarthy continues to face an increasingly...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Senate Dems prepare to join the investigative fray
Their functional 51st seat gives the party's upper-chamber members subpoena power — and not a moment too soon, as the House GOP revs its oversight engines.
www.politico.com
Kinzinger says Trump ‘absolutely guilty’ of crimes ahead of Jan. 6
Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) said Wednesday that former President Trump is “absolutely guilty” of a crime surrounding the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. “I think he’s guilty of a crime. I …
thehill.com
As Title 42 nears its end, a surge at the border has already begun
El Paso, Texas, city leaders say the influx they’re seeing has led to hundreds of migrants sleeping on the streets, at bus stations and inside the local airport.
www.nbcnews.com
EXPLAINER: What can the Patriot missile do for Ukraine?
Patriot missile systems have long been a hot ticket item for the U.S. and allies in contested areas of the world as a coveted shield against incoming missiles.
apnews.com
McConnell steps up attacks on a weakened Trump
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) is stepping up his attacks on former President Trump as Trump’s support dips. The Senate GOP leader on Tuesday blamed Trump for the “candidate quality…
thehill.com
Iran ousted from U.N. women's rights commission amid crackdown and executions
The U.S. and 28 other countries voted to expel Iran from the world body that promotes women's rights. China and Russia were among those that voted not to oust the country.
www.nbcnews.com
House GOP accuses McConnell of selling it out with yearlong budget deal
Congressional GOP leaders are bitterly split on a yearlong budget deal, with some allies of Kevin McCarthy even accusing Mitch McConnell of selling them out.
US sues Arizona over shipping containers on Mexico border
The U.S. government has sued Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey and the state over the placement of shipping containers as a barrier on the border with Mexico, saying it is trespassing on federal lands.
apnews.com
‘Republicans are emasculated’: Rand Paul urges Republicans to vote against omnibus spending bill - Washington Examiner
Watch the latest video at foxbusiness.com Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) voiced his opposition to the new omnibus spending bill, arguing that Republicans should take a stand against what he sees as Democratic overspending. In an appearance on Fox Business's Kudlow, Paul decried his Republican colleagues...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Democrats wrestle with how to handle a potential Sinema independent run in 2024
Party leaders won't say whether they'll support Sinema after she dropped her Democratic affiliation.
www.nbcnews.com
Dozens freed in new Ukraine-Russia prisoner swap
Latest exchange suggests some contact remains between two sides despite intense fighting in Ukraine’s east and south.
Migrants converging on El Paso fuel calls for border crackdown
Increased migrant border crossings near El Paso are drawing attention back to the border, as Congress grapples with must-pass end of year legislation that could include an immigration deal. The foc…
thehill.com
Federal Reserve approves 0.5% hike, slowing rate increases
The move from the Federal Reserve signals confidence that inflation will continue to fall.
Congress passes bill to fund police de-escalation training
The House has passed bipartisan legislation that would empower law enforcement agencies to adopt de-escalation training when encountering individuals with mental health issues.
apnews.com
DeSantis leading hypothetical 2024 presidential primary race in a deep-red state Trump won twice
A Vanderbilt University poll found that Gov. Ron DeSantis is leading in a hypothetical 2024 matchup against Trump, while Biden received tanking support for re-election.
Trump special counsel has subpoenaed officials in these 7 battleground states
Special counsel Jack Smith has issued a round of subpoenas targeting election officials in seven battleground states that were key to former President Trump and his allies after the 2020 election. …
thehill.com
Trump sues Pulitzer board for defamation in defending winning Russia collusion stories
Former President Trump sued the Pulitzer Prize board on Wednesday for defamation, arguing a statement by the group that concluded a review conducted of previous claims he’d made defamed him. …
thehill.com
SEC says social media influencers used Twitter and Discord to manipulate stocks
The regulatory agency charged them in what it says was a $100 million securities fraud scheme run by people who portrayed themselves as successful stock traders.
www.nbcnews.com
Australia accuses Apple, Microsoft of overlooking child sex abuse
Internet safety watchdog says tech giants should automatically scan for child exploitation material on their services.
Elon Musk taking legal action over Twitter account that tracks his private jet
Twitter's owner says an account tracking his private jet has put his son's safety at risk.
www.bbc.com
Come on down? House GOP weighs the right price to topple a speaker
The showcase showdown of Kevin McCarthy's battle to win over conservatives may come down to how many Republicans have to agree on voting to boot him.
www.politico.com
Republicans ramp up investigation into Twitter, Facebook on collusion with Biden admin to censor speech
Republicans say the Biden administration colluded with Twitter and Facebook under the “guise” of suppressing “misinformation” in order to censor Americans.
Senate votes to ban TikTok use on government devices
The Senate on Wednesday unanimously approved legislation that would ban the use of TikTok on government phones and devices as part of the push to combat security concerns related to the Chinese-own…
thehill.com
Club Q shooting survivors press Congress to act on guns
Survivors of last month’s deadly mass shooting at a Colorado gay nightclub have testified to Congress about the onslaught of threats and violence against members of the LGBTQ community as they urged lawmakers to pass a law banning some semiautomatic weapons.
apnews.com
Over half of registered voters find Trump Constitution comments disqualifying - Washington Examiner
A poll has found that 51% of registered voters believe former President Donald Trump's recent Constitution comments should disqualify him from holding office. The new poll from Quinnipiac University put Trump's disapproval rating at 59%, the highest since 2015, with 31% having a favorable...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
The Memo: New controversies deepen GOP’s ‘extremist’ problem
The GOP has an image problem — and it’s not getting better. Republicans suffered a disappointing midterm election in part because moderate voters saw the party as too extreme. A string of new contr…
thehill.com
Ohio man charged in indictment with threatening an Arizona election official
Joshua Russell, 44, of Bucyrus is accused of leaving voicemails for an official with the Arizona secretary of state’s office that included death threats.
www.nbcnews.com
Tesla shares fall as investors bash Musk's Twitter focus
Tesla shares extended declines to hit their lowest level in more than two years on Wednesday, as investors including a "fanboy" of CEO Elon Musk lashed out at Musk's distraction from the electric car company following his buy of Twitter.
Elon Musk threatens legal action, suspends Twitter account that tracks his jet
The Twitter Safety account noted Wednesday that it made the decision to ban posts on other people’s live locations because of “increased risk of physical harm.”
www.nbcnews.com
December spending gloom falls on GOP: 'I’m so disgusted'
Republicans are divided over whether to land a year-end spending deal, taking it off the plate of next year's divided party and potential Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
www.politico.com
Mayorkas receives icy welcome from ‘lifeless’ Border Patrol agents - Washington Examiner
EXCLUSIVE — Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas was confronted by at least one Border Patrol agent during his visit to El Paso, Texas, this week about his response to the millions of illegal immigration attempts at the U.S.-Mexico border since President Joe Biden took office...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Fiji’s opposition lodges complaint over election results
Move comes after Fiji authorities took down a provisional tally that showed the opposition holding a very early lead.
Ukrainians push for US to support special tribunal to prosecute Russian leadership for crime of aggression | CNN Politics
Ukrainian officials traveled to the United States last week to push for support for the creation of a special tribunal to prosecute top-level Russian officials for the crime of aggression.
www.cnn.com
Sandy Hook anniversary: Biden cites 'societal guilt' on guns
President Joe Biden says the U.S. “should have societal guilt” for the slow pace of action on restricting access to firearms as he marked the 10th anniversary of the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
apnews.com
Ukraine: Russian strikes thwarted, but wreckage hits buildings
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a video the “terrorists” fired 13 Iranian-made drones.
www.politico.com
Congress averts partial government shutdown with short-term funding bill lasting 1 week
Congressional lawmakers approved a short-term funding bill in a 224-201 vote, allowing an additional week to work on on a $1.7 trillion spending bill.
Ukraine: Russian strikes thwarted, wreckage hits buildings
Ukrainian authorities say they thwarted a Russian attack on Kyiv and the surrounding region as their air defense system destroyed 13 explosive-laden drones.
apnews.com
Unexplained leak from docked Soyuz spacecraft cancels Russian ISS spacewalk
NASA said the crew was never in any danger.
Senate Banking hearing set to take aim at FTX and cryptocurrency industry: 'The largest Ponzi scheme in history'
FTX's new CEO John J. Ray told lawmakers Tuesday that former CEO Sam Bankman-Fried, committed "old fashioned embezzlement."
3 dead in Louisiana after tornadoes hit state
A woman and her son were also killed after a tornado swept through a Louisiana town on Tuesday, officials said.
McCarthy looks to sway critics with forum on House rules - Washington Examiner
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) appears to have his work cut out for him still in attempting to sway members of his conference voicing opposition to him becoming the next speaker, with his critics emerging from a forum to discuss potential House rules changes remaining no’s on...
www.washingtonexaminer.comTaiwanese train for war after year of crises
As tensions rise in the Taiwan Strait, private companies are stepping forward to prepare Taiwanese civilians for war.
Arizona officials stop inflatable Grinch from snatching HOV lane - Washington Examiner
A green inflatable Grinch's heart was two sizes too small to count as a passenger in the high-occupancy vehicle lane for Arizona officials. Keen on stopping the Grinch from stealing an HOV spot, the unnamed driver who placed the inflatable Christmas character in the passenger seat was slapped...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Biden tells African leaders US is 'all in' on the continent
President Joe Biden has told dozens of African leaders gathered in Washington the United States is “all in on Africa’s future."
apnews.com
American held in Russia since June is released in prisoner swap
Crypto investor Suedi Murekezi was let go in a deal that saw 64 Ukrainian troops released, officials say.
www.bbc.com
Bank of England readies another rate hike even as recession hits
A ninth interest rate hike in a row by the Bank of England looks to be a foregone conclusion on Thursday and investors will be looking for clues on how many more will be needed with the economy sliding into recession but inflation still above 10%.
Ga. secretary of state wants to end general election runoffs
Georgia’s top elections official is urging lawmakers to end general election runoffs, but isn't offering any specific proposals.
apnews.com
4 Startling Ways China Is Challenging the U.S.
The threats to American power are both subtle and extraordinary.
www.politico.com
Outgoing Alabama senator says body 'less collegial' than it was 36 years ago
Alabama Sen. Richard Shelby, 88, has chosen not to seek a seventh term, expressing concerns about growing polarization in the Senate, which he was elected to in 1986.
Analysis: Why voters don’t want Biden or Trump but might get them anyway in 2024 | CNN Politics
Even as President Joe Biden and ex-President Donald Trump move toward a rerun of the most turbulent White House race in modern history, many voters are pining for a break from the past – and the present.
www.cnn.com
‘Breakfast Club’ urges Senate Republicans to reject yearlong spending deal - Washington Examiner
Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI) led a conference meeting on Wednesday in an effort to persuade fellow Republicans to home in on fiscal conservatism and delay a major spending bill until the next Congress is sworn in — when Republicans will take control of the House of Representatives. The huddle comes...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Patriot systems would be legitimate target in Ukraine: Kremlin
The comments come as US finalises plans to send the missile systems to intercept barrage of Russian missiles.
Liberals struggle to find viable Twitter alternative after Musk takeover
Elon Musk’s conquest of the Twitter-verse has sent hordes of mostly left-leaning tweeters scrambling — if not for the exits, then at least for a social-media backup plan. Twitter’…
thehill.com
Turkish court sentences Erdogan rival to jail with political ban
A Turkish court sentenced Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu to jail on Wednesday and imposed a political ban on the opposition politician who is seen as a strong potential challenger to President Tayyip Erdogan in elections next year.
Trump hits 7-year low in new national poll as Biden approval climbs
Trump has come under fire from some fellow Republicans after many of his hand-picked candidates lost high-profile races in last month's midterm elections.
Federal Reserve announces slower pace of interest rate hikes as inflation cools
The Fed has sought to increase the cost of borrowing and investing to pull back on price increases. It appears to be working.
www.nbcnews.com
US plans for more migrant releases when asylum limits end
The Department of Homeland Security says more migrants may be released into the United States to pursue immigration cases when Trump-era asylum restrictions end next week.
apnews.com
Union Pacific railroad shipping limits generate complaints
Federal regulators and shippers are questioning Union Pacific’s decision to temporarily limit some businesses’ shipments as part of its effort to clear up congestion across the railroad
Meta’s algorithm helped stoke hate and violence during Ethiopian civil war, $2B lawsuit alleges - Washington Examiner
A $2 billion lawsuit alleged that Meta's algorithm helped fuel hate and violence that killed hundreds of thousands in Ethiopia's civil war. Starting in November 2020, Ethiopian government forces waged total war against Tigrayan rebels with the help of Eritrea. Between November 2020 and November...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Trump Org. was secretly held in contempt for hindering probe
According to a judge's secret contempt ruling, Donald Trump’s company impeded a grand jury investigation last year by repeatedly failing to turn over evidence in a timely fashion, leading to a $4,000 fine.
apnews.com
US winter storm barrels east with millions under weather warnings
The fatalities include a mother and her eight-year-old son whose home was destroyed by a tornado.
www.bbc.com
Europe’s gas stocks comfortable despite cold snap
Europe’s gas inventories remain comfortable despite much colder-than-normal temperatures across the northern part of the region which have boosted heating demand significantly since the start of December.
Recount requests delay Pennsylvania election certification
Five weeks after Election Day, winning candidates in Pennsylvania from governor to Congress are waiting for their victories to become official.
apnews.com
Again and again: The school shootings since Sandy Hook
NBC News has tracked active shooter school shootings since 2013.
www.nbcnews.com
Puerto Rican independence bill goes to U.S. House vote on Thursday
Puerto Ricans could move a step closer to a referendum on whether the island should become a U.S. state, an independent country or have another type of government when the House of Representatives votes Thursday on a bill outlining the process.
GOP lawmakers call for special counsel to investigate sexual misconduct allegations in NY AG office
Three New York GOP lawmakers on Tuesday called for Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) to appoint a special counsel to investigate allegations of sexual misconduct against the former chief of staff in the state&…
thehill.com
Rep. Gallego says some Democratic senators "have encouraged me to run" against Sen. Sinema
If Sinema runs as an independent in 2024, Arizona could see a three-way Senate race, pitting a Republican, Democrat and independent incumbent against each other.
www.cbsnews.com
Russia-Ukraine war reaches dark side of the internet
The darknet has become another, quiet front in the war as Russian and Ukrainian hackers, once united, drift apart.
Nation's largest water supplier declares drought emergency
The nation's largest water supplier has declared a drought emergency for all of Southern California
Vietnam in big push to expand South China Sea outposts - U.S. think tank
Vietnam has conducted a major expansion of dredging and landfill work at several of its South China Sea outposts in the second half of this year, signaling an intent to significantly fortify its claims in the disputed waterway, a U.S. think tank reported on Wednesday.
Stocks slump, greenback gains as central banks continue inflation battle
Global shares slumped on Thursday, while the U.S. dollar gained and Treasury yields ticked down, after major central banks hiked interest rates in their final policy decisions of the year.
Pelosi portrait unveiled, historic 1st of a female speaker
Outgoing Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s portrait was unveiled at the U.S. Capitol, a traditional honor bestowed on a tradition-breaking leader.
apnews.com
Ukraine war live updates: U.S. and Russia make another prisoner swap; Moscow says no 'Christmas ceasefire'
Ukraine's capital Kyiv woke to blasts and air raid sirens on Wednesday, while Belarus is being closely watched for any signs it is preparing for war.
U.N. member states oust Iran from women’s rights panel
The Biden administration led a push to boot Iran from the decades-old commission, but a notable number of countries abstained from the vote.
www.politico.com
Can Congress wrap a complete budget before Christmas, or will they need a New Year's (continuing) resolution?
Congress is down to the wire in funding the government through the end of the year, GOP are deciding whether to pass a short-term spending bill or work with Democrats to pass full budget.
Shapiro's bipartisanship talk welcome in fight-weary Capitol
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Democratic Gov.-elect Josh Shapiro will take office next month talking about how voters across the political spectrum in Pennsylvania gave him a mandate, a message he will carry into a state Capitol riven by partisanship and, recently, a breakdown in lawmaking.
apnews.com
Former House Speaker John Boehner tears up at Pelosi portrait unveiling
The Ohio Republican succeeded Pelosi in 2011 after her first stint as House speaker.
www.nbcnews.com
Congress acts to remove bust of Dred Scott decision author
The bust of a U.S. Supreme Court justice who wrote an infamous decision on slavery could soon be leaving the Capitol.
apnews.com
Biden admin sues Arizona over creation of shipping container border wall to stop illegal immigration
The Biden administration on Wednesday sued Arizona over its moves to construct a makeshift border barrier using shipping containers to stop illegal immigration.
Top Justice Department official calls on social media companies to do more as teens die from fentanyl
Deaths from fentanyl among teens have more than tripled since 2019.
www.cbsnews.com
Wieambilla police killers were obsessed with guns, says father
Ronald Train says his sons took a "dark track" after cutting off their family 20 years ago.
www.bbc.com
Paul Pelosi attack: Man told cops of 'evil' in Washington
A San Francisco police investigator has testified that the man accused of attacking House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's husband said there was “evil in Washington” and he was targeting her because she is second in line to the presidency.
apnews.com
Pro-law enforcement funding Democrat wins Austin mayoral race, despite city's previous effort to defund police
Pro-police funding Democrat Kirk Watson won the mayoral runoff election in Austin, Texas, despite the city pushing to cut off law enforcement spending.
Morocco airline cancels World Cup fans flights, citing Qatar restrictions
Morocco's national airline said it was cancelling all flights it had scheduled for Wednesday to carry fans to Doha for the World Cup semi-final, citing what it said was a decision by Qatari authorities.
What to know about ascending aortic aneurysm after Grant Wahl's sudden death at the World Cup
American soccer writer Grant Wahl died due to an ascending aortic aneurysm, a very rare medical condition, his wife revealed.
Powell says Fed will not change 2% inflation goal
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, leading a central bank faced with the swiftest rise in consumer prices in decades, ruled out on Wednesday any change in the central bank's inflation goal.
Cori Bush accuses Republican lawmakers of 'White supremacy' in LGBT hearing
Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., accused her Republican colleagues of spreading "White supremacy" in a congressional hearing on Wednesday. Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., swiped back at the Democrat.
Peru's new government declares police state amid protests
Peru’s new government has imposed a police state amid violent protests following the ouster of President Pedro Castillo.
apnews.com
'We choose love': Ten years after Sandy Hook shooting, town reflects on loss
Ten years after one of the worst school shootings in U.S. history, residents of the Connecticut town where it took place marked Wednesday's anniversary by attending vigils, paying respects at a new memorial and reflecting in private with loved ones.
Analysis: They say this is good economic news. It might not feel like it | CNN Politics
There’s some good news to report, but questions and caveats are looming in the future.
www.cnn.com
WATCH: Trump teases ‘major announcement’ coming Thursday - Washington Examiner
Former President Donald Trump, who has already announced a run for the White House again in 2024, apparently has more news to share. "AMERICA NEEDS A SUPERHERO! I will be making a MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT tomorrow. Thank you!" he wrote on Truth Social. WATCH: FLORIDA GOV. DESANTIS DELIVERS MESSAGE OF...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Fed hikes rates again and warns of more rises
The US central bank raised its key interest rate by 0.5 percentage points.
www.bbc.comDeSantis holds early lead over Trump among GOP primary voters
The rivalry between Trump and DeSantis has been building in recent months as the former president has ramped up his verbal attacks against his likely competitor.
www.politico.com
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco on end of Title 42 border policy
Monaco said she is "concerned about the increase in illegal immigration" as well as "human smuggling" and "drug smuggling."
www.cbsnews.com
Report: TikTok boosts posts about eating disorders, suicide
New research finds that TikTok's powerful algorithms are promoting videos about self-harm and eating disorders to teens.
apnews.com
House approves funding extension to avert government shutdown, buying time for spending deal
Passing a temporary funding bill avoids the federal government shutdown that would have begun Friday at midnight
Analysis: China's massive older chip tech buildup raises U.S. concern
China’s largest chip maker SMIC is ramping up production of a decade-old chip technology, key to many industries' supply chains, setting off alarm bells in the United States.
Former Biden official Sam Brinton's mug shot released after bail set at $15,000
Nonbinary former nuclear official Samuel Brinton's mug shot was released by police Wednesday after being booked by Las Vegas police and released on bond.
Shelby: Bipartisanship 'good for the country'
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby, who is retiring after being a shrewd force in state and national politics for more than four decades, on Wednesday stressed the importance of bipartisanship as he prepares to leave office.
apnews.com
Biden touts U.S. relations with African nations, announces efforts to bolster trade
Biden is expected to announce Thursday that he intends to travel to sub-Saharan Africa next year for the first time since he took office, two administration officials said.
www.nbcnews.com
Bernard Arnault just became the world’s richest person. So who is he? | CNN Business
Bernard Arnault, the chairman of French luxury goods giant LVMH, has just become the first European to top Bloomberg’s list of the world’s richest people, relegating Elon Musk to second place.
www.cnn.com
Council votes to study reparations for Black Bostonians
The Boston City Council has voted to form a new commission to study how it can provide reparations for and other forms of atonement to Black Bostonians for the city's role in slavery and its legacy of inequality.
apnews.com
Tom Hanks was on Pelosi attack suspect hit list, court hears
The accused, David DePape, had also planned to target President Joe Biden's son, an officer testifies.
www.bbc.com
Hundreds of former inmates allege prison sex abuse
Mia Wheeler is one of several hundred formerly incarcerated women to file a lawsuit against the New York State Department of Corrections & Community Supervision.
Poland prepares changes to judicial law to unblock EU funds
WARSAW, Poland (AP) — Poland’s government has submitted a proposed law to parliament that would reverse some key judicial system regulations that caused the European Union to block the distribution of pandemic recovery funds to the nation.
apnews.com
U.S. Senate passes bill to bar federal employees from using TikTok on government-owned devices
The U.S. Senate late on Wednesday passed by voice vote a bill to bar federal employees from using Chinese-owned short video-sharing app TikTok on government-owned devices.
Biden-era border numbers dwarfing Obama DHS chief’s standard for 'crisis,' as Title 42 set to expire
The amount of migrant crossings taking place during the Biden administration is significantly higher than former DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson's standard for a crisis.
House approves removal of bust of Supreme Court justice who wrote Dred Scott decision, protecting slavery
The measure replaces the bust of former Chief Justice Roger Brooke Taney with late Justice Thurgood Marshall.
www.cbsnews.com
France celebrates World Cup victory, fans cheer Morocco team
Crowds in Paris and other French cities erupted in shouts of joy as France advanced to the World Cup final.
apnews.com
Club Q survivors blame 'hateful rhetoric' for Colorado Springs shooting
“To the politicians and activists who accuse LGBTQ people of grooming children and being abusers: Shame on you,” one survivor said before Congress.
www.nbcnews.com
Social media stock influencers accused of $114M 'pump and dump' scheme
Zack Morris and seven other men are charged with what's known as a "pump and dump" scheme that made more than $114 million, the Justice Department said
China’s economy plunged before major Covid policy shift. A rebound may be months away | CNN Business
The end of pandemic restrictions in China will eventually usher in a strong economic rebound as the country learns to live with the Covid virus, according to economists, even as a slew of data showed business activity plummeting in November.
www.cnn.com
Virginia AG blasts Virginia Beach mass shooting commission
NORFOLK, Va. (AP) — Virginia's Attorney General has lambasted a state commission that is investigating a 2019 mass shooting in Virginia Beach, citing the panel's “overall dysfunction” and the resignation of nearly half its members, according to a letter dated Wednesday.
apnews.com
Lawmaker Eva Kaili, 3 others charged in alleged bribery scheme involving Qatar
Formerly one of the vice presidents of European Parliament, Kaili remained in detention Wednesday as her hearing was postponed by a judge.
www.cbsnews.com
Lawmakers propose raising teachers' minimum salaries to $60K to stem 'mass exodus'
Rep. Frederica Wilson is co-leading the American Teacher Act with Rep. Jamaal Bowman
Airport security 100ml liquid rule to be scrapped
Restrictions on liquids and removing electrical items from bags are to be axed by June 2024.
www.bbc.com
Boston student arrested after threatening pro-China democracy activist
U.S. prosecutors said on Wednesday a Chinese citizen attending the Berklee College of Music in Boston stalked and harassed an activist who posted fliers supporting democracy in China and reported the person's activities to Chinese law enforcement.
House OKs stopgap funding fix with broader deal still under wraps
The chamber voted Wednesday night to extend federal cash for another week while negotiators hammer out a $1.7 trillion spending deal.
www.politico.com
A timeline of events in Peru since the president's ouster
LIMA, Peru (AP) — Here is a brief timeline of the political crisis that resulted in the ouster of a president and the imposition of a police state in Peru:
apnews.com
Sandy Hook 10 years later: Biden says US should have 'societal guilt' over gun violence
Marking a decade since the deadly Sandy Hook school shooting, President Biden said Wednesday that the United States must do more to tackle gun violence.
Former US ambassadors push for help for Afghan allies in spending bill | CNN Politics
A group of retired ambassadors, all of whom served as chief of mission at the US Embassy in Afghanistan, have written a letter to congressional leaders pushing them to include the Afghan Adjustment Act in the omnibus spending bill.
www.cnn.com
St. Louis picks Delaware chief to lead police department
ST. LOUIS (AP) — The police chief of Wilmington, Delaware, who has been nationally recognized for his efforts to reduce gun violence, will become the new chief of the St.
apnews.com
Paul Pelosi attack suspect David DePape allegedly cited 'evil in Washington,' hammer displayed to judge
David DePape, who allegedly attacked Paul Pelosi, was in court Wednesday for a preliminary hearing, where a judge was played the 911 call and bodycam footage.
Woman fatally shoots 2 officers at motel in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, officials say
A woman shot and killed two police officers at a Motel 6 in Bay St. Louis early Wednesday morning, state investigators said.
www.cbsnews.com
Legal immigration to the U.S. rebounds from pandemic drop in visa approvals
The State Department issued 493,000 visas to immigrants overseas who had applied to move to the U.S. permanently, a 73% jump from fiscal year 2021.
www.cbsnews.com
U.S. cable warns of major barriers to tracking Ukraine aid
The State Department cable surfaces amid growing calls for strict oversight of the money and weapons flowing to Ukraine.
www.politico.com
LGBT advocate claims in House hearing ‘detransitioning’ is not ‘a real thing’
An LGBT advocate claimed during Wednesday's House Oversight Committee hearing that people "detransitioning" from being transgender is not "a real thing."
Fed tightens grip on economy even as inflation cools
Despite two straight months of slowing price spikes, Fed officials raised interest rates yet again on Wednesday.
www.politico.com
Europe hosts southeast Asian leaders as own crises mount
BRUSSELS (AP) — European Union and southeast Asian countries commemorated 45 years of diplomatic ties Wednesday at a summit overshadowed by political distractions in Europe, ranging from the war in Ukraine to a bribery scandal.
apnews.com
Ukrainian official rips Russia for ‘kidnapping’ more than 13,000 children
A Ukrainian official slammed Russia for “kidnapping” more than 13,000 Ukrainian children amid its invasion of the country “under the guise of an alleged evacuation,” during a hearing held by the U.…
thehill.com
Scholz says Balkans joining EU is in Germany's interest
BERLIN (AP) — Chancellor Olaf Scholz said Wednesday that it's in the interest of Germany and Europe for the remaining countries of the Balkans to join the European Union.
apnews.com
Pelosi honored with official portrait and emotional tributes at unveiling ceremony | CNN Politics
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s official portrait was unveiled in a ceremony Wednesday at the US Capitol, with speeches from old allies and political sparring-mates who reminisced on her historic tenure.
www.cnn.comTexas sought gender change data on drivers licenses, report says
The Texas Attorney General's office requested data on the number of Texans who in recent years had switched their gender on drivers licenses and other state documents, the Washington Post reported on Wednesday.
Turkish court gives Istanbul mayor prison term, politics ban
ISTANBUL (AP) — A court in Turkey sentenced the mayor of Istanbul, the country's most populous city, to two years and seven months in prison Wednesday on charges of insulting members of Turkey’s Supreme Electoral Council.
apnews.com
Why Trump’s RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel is so hard to oust
www.politico.com
Stephen Miller-led group emerges as top legal foe of Biden initiatives | CNN Politics
A conservative legal group led by former top Trump aide Stephen Miller has emerged as a frequent opponent to several Biden administration initiatives by mounting court challenges, succeeding in blocking policies they say are examples of reverse discrimination.
www.cnn.com
Jordan demands Big Tech records detailing 'collusion' with Biden admin to censor conservatives
Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, is demanding records from Big Tech companies on the censorship of conservative speech and “collusion” with the Biden administration to stifle certain viewpoints.
Bulgaria: Parliament rejects proposed technocrat government
SOFIA, Bulgaria (AP) — Bulgaria’s parliament on Wednesday failed to elect a government proposed by the center-right GERB party to resolve a political impasse that has gripped the European Union’s poorest member country.
apnews.com
What to know about the ‘harsh’ Bahamas prison where Bankman-Fried is jailed
After his arrest in the Bahamas this week, FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried is being held in a facility known for its harsh conditions. The Royal Bahamas Police Force detained Bankman-Fried on Monday …
thehill.com
Haley says UN's ousting of Iran from women's commission is 'bare minimum'
Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley says it was "embarrassing" that Iran was ever elected to a top women's commission after it was ousted on Wednesday.
Prince Harry says Prince William 'screamed and shouted' at him in meeting over his and Meghan's royal split
"Harry & Meghan" covers everything from their love story to their exit from royal life.
China removes six officials after Manchester consulate incident, UK says
China has removed six officials from Britain who police wanted to question over the treatment of a man who said he was kicked and punched while protesting outside the Chinese consulate in Manchester, British foreign minister James Cleverly said.
Scene of Idaho student slayings was 'somber' as police grappled with public response
As one month passes without an arrest in the killings of four University of Idaho students, police have had to contend with a surge of media coverage amid speculation.
www.nbcnews.com
EU lawmaker at heart of corruption case to remain in custody
Judicial officials have told The Associated Press that a Greek European lawmaker charged with corruption in an alleged plot tarnishing EU institutions will remain in detention until at least Dec. 22 after her hearing by a judge was postponed.
apnews.com
Sen. Mike Lee rips Christmas Eve spending drama: ‘Extortive threat’
Sen. Mike Lee said Democratic leaders are setting up an extortive threat" by forcing lawmakers to either accept more federal spending or force a partial government shutdown.
Former Venezuelan treasurer convicted in U.S. of money laundering
A former Venezuelan treasurer who also served as an aide to late President Hugo Chavez has been convicted in the United States for money laundering in association with a corruption scheme in the South American nation.
Man who allegedly threatened to kill Arizona election official facing federal charges | CNN Politics
An Ohio man who allegedly threatened to kill an Arizona state election official during the 2022 midterm election season is now facing federal charges, the Justice Department announced Wednesday.
www.cnn.com
U.S. special counsel subpoenas officials in Georgia, Nevada -W.Post
U.S. Special Counsel Jack Smith has issued a subpoena to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and authorities in Clark County, Nevada, according to The Washington Post, bringing the number of U.S. states to have officials summoned to six.
‘The votes weren’t there’ for Sanders’ Yemen resolution
Sen. Bernie Sanders didn’t withdraw his Yemen War Powers Resolution Tuesday night just because of guarantees from the White House. He simply didn’t have the votes.
www.politico.com
Former Twitter employee sentenced to more than three years in prison for spying for Saudi Arabia
Ahmad Abouammo was found guilty for his part in a scheme to acquire the personal information of Twitter users for a Saudi government agent.
www.nbcnews.com
Pelosi attack suspect planned to target Hunter Biden, Gavin Newsom and Tom Hanks, police official says | CNN Politics
The man accused of attacking House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband, Paul, said there was “evil in Washington” and had also planned to target President Joe Biden’s son Hunter, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and actor Tom Hanks, a San Francisco Police Department official testified Wednesday.
www.cnn.com
Hawley takes aim at Biden admin’s 'abdication' of responsibility over post-Title 42 migrant surge
Sen. Josh Hawley is accusing the Biden administraton of an abidication of its legal responsibilities ahead of the end of Title 42 on Dec. 21, which brings a migrant surge.
World Cup 2022: Final between France and Argentina set after Morocco beaten - Washington Examiner
The World Cup final is set after France defeated Morocco 2-0 in the semifinals of the soccer tournament Wednesday. Defending champion France will meet Argentina in the World Cup final on Sunday at 10 a.m. EST, which will be televised on Fox. WORLD CUP 2022: GRANT WAHL'S CAUSE OF DEATH REVEALED...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
The Biggest Threats to the U.S. Aren’t What You Think
The Pentagon is increasingly waking up to serious national security hazards that aren’t nukes, tanks and bombs. A leading expert explains what the U.S. needs to do about these non-traditional threats.
www.politico.com
Analysis: Congress has so much to do before Christmas | CNN Politics
It is the most productive time of year on Capitol Hill – after the election and before Republicans take over the House – when the current Congress tries to cram in some of its most vital work into a few short weeks. Here’s what to watch for in the twilight of 2022.
www.cnn.com
Peru declares state of emergency, seeks 18-months jail for Castillo
Peru announced a nationwide state of emergency, granting police special powers and limiting freedoms including the right to assembly, after a week of protests that left at least eight dead.
Fauci responds to DeSantis’s call for COVID-19 vaccine investigation
Outgoing White House medical adviser Anthony Fauci said Wednesday that he “doesn’t have a clue” what Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis hopes to accomplish by calling for a state grand jury investigati…
thehill.com
White House to restart free Covid home test program
The popular mail-order program for the home kits will start as part of a broader winter preparedness plan.
www.politico.com
Relaxed COVID rules, deadly crowd crushes mark year in Asia
Natural disasters and crowd-related tragedies claimed hundreds of lives in Asia and overshadowed the COVID-19 pandemic, with most countries easing or completely lifting the tough restrictions of the previous two years.
apnews.com
Health Care — Long COVID linked to thousands of US deaths
One Minnesota woman was able to capture the rare phenomenon of thundersnow on camera. Who knew that was a thing? Today in health, the CDC released new research findings linking thousands …
thehill.com
Is it Covid, flu or RSV? A chart compares the most common symptoms of each virus
The three viruses have been driving a national wave of infections, and they share many common symptoms.
www.nbcnews.com
COVID origins 'may have been tied' to China's bioweapons program: GOP report
Republican House Intelligence Committee members allege in a report that there are indications that COVID-19 could be tied to China’s biological weapons research program.
The deadly cost of long Covid
More than 3,500 Americans have died due, at least in part, to long Covid, according to new data from the CDC released early this morning.
www.politico.com
Fauci credits passion, genetics for his long career as he reflects on 50 years of service
Despite being 81 years old, Fauci said he has the energy to still contribute and plans to announce his next career chapter in 2023.
Biden administration proposes crackdown on scam Medicare ads
The Biden administration has proposed a ban on misleading ads for Medicare Advantage plans that have targeted older Americans and, in some cases, convinced them to sign up for plans that don’t cover their doctors or prescriptions.
apnews.com
China's factory, retail sectors skid as COVID hits growth
China's economy lost more steam in November as factory output slowed and retail sales extended declines, both missing forecasts and clocking their worst readings in six months, hobbled by surging COVID-19 cases and widespread virus curbs.
House GOP report says COVID-19 origins ‘may have been tied’ to Chinese bioweapons program - Washington Examiner
A newly released report from Republicans on the House Intelligence Committee says COVID-19's origins "may have been" linked to a Chinese biological weapons program. While stressing the lack of a "smoking gun" and saying they don't believe its release into the public was intentional, the report...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
CDC says long Covid has contributed to thousands of U.S. deaths
The agency’s report comes as Congress is considering whether to fund research and treatment.
www.politico.com
China's COVID spike not due to lifting of restrictions, WHO director says
Cases were exploding in China well before the government's decision to abandon its strict "zero-COVID" policy, the director said, quashing suggestions that the sudden reversal caused a spike.
U.S. hospitals report rises in severe strep A infections among kids after 15 deaths in UK
Two young children in Colorado have died from invasive group A strep, and four children's hospitals are seeing more cases than usual.
www.nbcnews.com
Largest nursing strike in NHS history starts
Routine surgery is likely to be disrupted, but life-preserving and urgent care will still be provided.
www.bbc.com
China won't report asymptomatic COVID cases in further shift
China says it will stop reporting asymptomatic COVID-19 cases since they’ve become “impossible” to track with mass testing no longer required
Jordan spars with former Trump vaccine official over ‘gag order’ during pandemic
Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) sparred Wednesday with a former senior Trump administration health official over whether the administration issued a “gag order” amid its chaotic response in the early days…
thehill.com
2-year-old hospitalized with RSV spent 8 days on ventilator
A mother from Albuquerque, New Mexico, is warning about the dangers of RSV after her daughter spent 8 days hospitalized on a ventilator.
