AP Photo
Donald Trump’s GOP rivals once again compelled to rally to his defense after Colorado ruling
AMES, Iowa (AP) — With less than a month to go before voting begins, Donald Trump ‘s Republican rivals are once again rallying to his defense, this time after Colorado’s Supreme Court ruled to remove him from the state’s presidential primary ballot under the U.S. Constitution’s insurrection clause.
Judge orders release of documents naming Jeffrey Epstein associates
The names include those of sex abuse victims, litigation witnesses, Epstein’s employees — and even some people with only passing connections to the scandal.
www.nbcnews.comPresident Biden denounces Trump as 'doubling down' on support for insurrection
President Joe Biden says it's “self-evident" that Donald Trump is an insurrectionist but demurs on whether he should be barred from the ballot in next year's election.
apnews.com
Texas begins flying migrants to sanctuary cities with first flight to Chicago
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's office is now flying migrants to sanctuary cities, including Chicago, sources in his office tell Fox News, as the border crisis continues.
Trump asks Supreme Court not to weigh in, now, on whether he's immune from Jan. 6 charges
Trump on Wednesday asked the U.S. Supreme Court to stay out of the legal debate over presidential immunity regarding his actions attacking the 2020 election results
US, Venezuela swap prisoners: Maduro ally for 10 Americans, plus fugitive contractor 'Fat Leonard'
The Biden administration has released close ally of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in swap for jailed Americans.
apnews.com
Democrats question whether Republicans really want a deal on border security - Washington Examiner
NO WILL, ‘NO WAY’: With a record number of immigrants surging at the U.S.-Mexico border and Ukraine running low on both men and materiel in its existential fight against Russia, there is no doubt that both situations constitute legitimate emergencies. “The president has been very clear that he...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Trump and Abbott revive GOP focus on border security in 2024 election | CNN Politics
Former President Donald Trump’s harsh rhetoric and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s contentious new deportation law have reignited Republican efforts to make border security the focus of the 2024 election — elevating the fight over immigration policy to new heights.
www.cnn.comPutin ratchets up military pressure on Ukraine as he expects Western support for Kyiv to dwindle
After blunting Ukraine’s counteroffensive from the summer, Russia is building up its resources for a new stage of the war over the winter.
apnews.com
Speaker Mike Johnson and daughter were profiled attending 'purity ball' in 2015 German TV news segment
Years before becoming speaker, Mike Johnson and his family were profiled attending a "purity ball" in a German TV news segment, underscoring his deep conservative views.
House Dysfunction by the Numbers: 724 Votes, Only 27 Laws Enacted
WASHINGTON — Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the former speaker, had a positive spin on the five days and record-breaking 15 voting rounds it took him to win the gavel in January. “Because it took this long,” he said after the ordeal, “now we learned how to govern.” But as the first year of the 118th...
Colorado hands Trump a political gift by barring him from the ballot
His Republican rivals acknowledge the court ruling is likely to help him in the GOP primary, and Democrats say the same.
www.nbcnews.com
Biden says Trump 'supported an insurrection,' in wake of Colorado ruling
President Joe Biden said it's “self-evident” that Donald Trump is an insurrectionist for trying to overturn the 2020 election loss.
www.usatoday.com
Supreme Court will hear challenge to EPA rule limiting downwind power plant pollution in 10 states
The Supreme Court will hear arguments in February on whether the Environmental Protection Agency can continue enforcing its anti-air-pollution “good neighbor” rule in 10 states.
apnews.com
Judge orders immediate enforcement of Georgia election workers' $148M judgment against Giuliani
A judge has granted former Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss' request to expedite their $148 million defamation judgment against Rudy Giuliani.
A month after House GOP's highly touted announcement of release of Jan. 6 videos, about 0.4% of the videos have been posted online
There are 44,000 hours of security video from Jan. 6, 2021, the date of the assault on the Capitol.
www.cbsnews.com
House widens Harvard investigation to include allegations of plagiarism against Gay - Washington Examiner
The House Committee on Education and the Workforce announced an expansion of the investigation into Harvard University to include allegations of plagiarism against the school's president. The move comes a day after Harvard received a 37-page complaint detailing more than 40 possible instances of...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Voters Don’t Want a Biden-Trump Rematch. This is Why.
A week of missteps and damaging news cycles is reminding voters in each party of their likely nominees’ flaws.
www.politico.comIsrael uncovers major Hamas command center in Gaza City as cease-fire talks gain momentum
Israeli military says it uncovered a Hamas command center in Gaza City, inflicting what it described as a serious blow to the Islamic militant group.
apnews.com
Voters react to Trump being kicked off Colorado's ballot
We asked Republicans and Democrats whether the courts should have any role in deciding who can run.
www.bbc.com
Playbook PM: Trump’s polling paradox
And the U.S. reaches a prisoner release deal with Venezuela.
www.politico.com
Manchin slams Senate for leaving Washington without border deal - Washington Examiner
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) expressed his disapproval on Wednesday with the Senate deciding to “pack up and head home” without a border security deal. Senators were forced to come to Washington, D.C., this week on their scheduled Christmas recess to close out unfinished business for the upper...
www.washingtonexaminer.comThe Constitution's insurrection clause threatens Trump's campaign. Here is how that is playing out
Former President Donald Trump's bid to win back the White House in 2024 is now endangered by two sentences added to the U.S. Constitution 155 years ago.
apnews.com
California official publishes massive mistake in call to kick Trump off the ballot - Washington Examiner
California's lieutenant governor published a major error in her letter urging the pursuit of options to knock former President Donald Trump off the state's primary ballot. Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis incorrectly said United States citizens must be at least 40 years of age — the actual required age...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Trump urges Supreme Court to decline to fast-track dispute over immunity claim
Special counsel Jack Smith has asked the Supreme Court to quickly decide whether former President Donald Trump is immune from federal prosecution.
www.cbsnews.com
Dem-appointed Colorado justice says Trump ballot ban undermines 'bedrock' of America in fiery dissent
Colorado Supreme Court Justice Carlos Samour had harsh words for the court's majority after it banned former President Donald Trump from state ballots.
With Trump's 14th Amendment case, law and 2024 election poised to collide at SCOTUS
The Supreme Court is likely to take on a case from Colorado that deals with Trump's eligibility to run for president in 2024, raising complex and novel legal questions.
Murkowski slams Trump for ‘hateful, harmful’ anti-immigration comments
“This is more hateful, harmful rhetoric from Donald Trump that is poisoning our country,” the Alaska senator wrote in a social media post.
www.politico.com
The war in Ukraine is revitalizing Putin, as Zelenskyy struggles with resources and morale
As the warring leaders take stock of the year, a once-triumphant Zelenskyy looks beleaguered while Putin appears to be taking a victory lap.
www.nbcnews.comOil companies offer $382M for drilling rights in Gulf of Mexico in last offshore sale before 2025
Oil companies have offered $382 million for drilling rights in the Gulf of Mexico after courts rejected the Biden administration’s plans to scale back the sale to protect an endangered whale species.
apnews.com
Biden hands out $600 million to fund ‘environmental justice projects’ - Washington Examiner
The Biden administration gave out $600 million for "environmental justice projects." The Environmental Protection Agency announced the distribution of the money in the form of grants to 11 different groups as part of the agency's Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Sen. Thom Tillis moves to block other states from disqualifying Trump after Colorado decision
The GOP senator said his bill would move power to make decisions on a candidate's qualifications to the nation's highest court.
www.usatoday.com
RFK Jr. issues stark warning after Colorado court blocks Trump from ballot: 'Country will become ungovernable'
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. said Colorado Supreme Court's ruling blocking former President Donald Trump from the ballot deprives American voters of a "fair election."
How Christie became a ‘monumental problem’ for Haley — and a potential boon to Trump
The former New Jersey governor could complicate Nikki Haley’s math in New Hampshire, some prominent Republicans say.
www.politico.com
Scott Perry: Trump ally ordered to share records with US Capitol riot probe
A federal judge orders the Pennsylvania lawmaker to release 1,656 out of 2,055 records.
www.bbc.comBiden tackles Trump and touts economic progress in Milwaukee visit
President Joe Biden is swiping at Donald Trump and touting his administration's progress during a visit to Milwaukee.
apnews.com
Coons: Colorado ruling on Trump is ‘a plain reading of the text of the 14th amendment’
It's "undeniable" Trump participated in an insurrection, Coons said.
www.politico.com
US Capitol Police chief rips into Tucker Carlson over ‘offensive’ use of January 6 footage | CNN Politics
US Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger on Tuesday ripped into Fox News host Tucker Carlson over his commentary about footage from the January 6, 2021, insurrection that he aired Monday night, saying the host “cherry-picked” from the footage to present “offensive” and “misleading” conclusions about...
www.cnn.comWhat Trump's legal battles will bring in 2024
As busy as former President Donald Trump’s courtroom schedule was in 2023, next year will be even busier.
Nikki Haley’s history on abortion policy includes backing strict bans in S.C.
The GOP presidential candidate, a former governor and legislator in South Carolina, backed failed bills in the state that would have granted due process and equal protection rights at fertilization.
www.nbcnews.com
Dean Phillips says Biden could ‘pass the torch’ after a poor early state showing - Washington Examiner
EXCLUSIVE — Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN) said it isn't too late for President Joe Biden to still "pass the torch" to another Democratic candidate before the 2024 election. In an interview with NewsNation's Dan Abrams airing Friday, Phillips told the host, "I think it's still possible" that Biden...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Darien Harris freed from prison after trial's key witness was found to be blind
Darien Harris was in prison for more than 10 years after the star witness said he committed murder.
www.bbc.com
West Virginia coal’s next best friend in the Senate
www.politico.com
Former Georgia election workers can go after Giuliani’s assets immediately, judge says | CNN Politics
Two Georgia election workers awarded nearly $150 million by a jury for the harm caused by defamatory statements Rudy Giuliani made about them following the 2020 election can begin trying to collect from him immediately, according to a new court order.
www.cnn.comChris Christie outlines his national drug crisis plan, focusing on treatment and stigma reduction
Republican presidential hopeful Chris Christie is outlining his plan for addressing the latest wave of the nation's drug crisis.
apnews.com
Trump’s GOP rivals face balancing act over Colorado ruling with Iowa caucuses fast approaching | CNN Politics
Donald Trump’s rivals for the 2024 Republican nomination largely closed ranks around the former president, adding to the broad GOP criticism of the Colorado Supreme Court ruling that he cannot appear on the state’s primary ballot next year.
www.cnn.com
Pete Buttigieg spent $59,000 in taxpayer money traveling on govt jets: inspector general
An inspector general report released Wednesday determined Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg blew nearly $59,000 traveling on government private jets since taking office.
Colorado Voters Share Sense of Unease After Court Disqualifies Trump
Underlying the celebrations and condemnations of the Colorado Supreme Court decision that struck former President Donald Trump from the primary ballot on Tuesday was a sense among voters in the state that it was only a prelude of the rancor to come. Whether for or against the ruling, many voters...
Amarillo, Texas, considers ordinance to become 'sanctuary city for the unborn'
Amarillo could become the latest city in Texas to pass an “abortion trafficking” ordinance as the city's leaders consider blocking the use of its roads by anyone traveling to get an abortion.
www.washingtonexaminer.com'Fat Leonard,' a fugitive now returning to the US, was behind one of the military's biggest scandals
Convicted defense contractor Leonard “Fat Leonard” Francis returns to U.S. custody as part of the Venezuelan prisoner swap.
apnews.com
Trump urges Supreme Court to let lower court hear immunity appeal first
The Supreme Court was asked by special counsel Jack Smith to take an appeal on the issue of whether Donald Trump has immunity in his criminal election case.
Dean Phillips criticizes Colorado court ruling barring Trump from ballot
Phillips' position puts him more in line with Republicans than other Democrats.
www.politico.com
Federal judge orders texts, emails on Rep. Scott Perry's phone be turned over to prosecutors in 2020 election probe
Federal prosecutors will be permitted to access 1,659 of the more than 2,000 records found on Perry's personal device, which was seized in August 2022.
www.cbsnews.com
What's behind the recent wave of House retirements?
The number of House members retiring or seeking another office is high, but not record-setting.
Consumer confidence pops in the last month of a year that repeatedly dodged recession forecasts
The latest Conference Board survey shows economic optimism at its highest level since July, as inflation cools and jobs remain plentiful heading into 2024.
www.nbcnews.com
Colorado judges' decision to remove Trump from ballot is 'hot garbage,' says former prosecutor
Former federal prosecutor Francey Hakes breaks down the 'shocking' decision from the Colorado Supreme Court to remove former President Donald Trump from the state's 2024 ballots.
Will Donald Trump be kept off California's ballot? State leader calls on election officials to explore options
Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis requested that California's secretary of state explore "every legal option" to keep the former president out of the primary.
U.S. charges Hezbollah operative who allegedly planned 1994 Argentina bombing that killed 85
Samuel Salman El Reda allegedly coordinated the terrorist organization's activities in South America, Asia and Lebanon beginning in 1993.
www.cbsnews.com
Vivek Ramaswamy says he will withdraw from the Colorado primary ballot after Trump disqualified
Vivek Ramaswamy said he will withdraw from the Colorado GOP primary ballot after the state Supreme Court disqualified Donald Trump from the ballot.
www.usatoday.com
Billions are on the line for lenders as White House finalizes credit card late fee cap
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is facing banks, credit unions and credit card companies in its push to limit late fees.
Three reasons Colorado’s Trump decision might not kill former president’s 2024 hopes - Washington Examiner
The Colorado Supreme Court’s historic ruling on Tuesday that former President Donald Trump is disqualified from holding the office of the presidency under the Constitution's insurrection clause might not upset his 2024 hopes. The landmark decision used Section 3 of the 14th Amendment for the...
www.washingtonexaminer.comU.S. imposes more Russian oil price cap sanctions and issues new compliance rules for shippers
The U.S. has imposed new sanctions on alleged violators of its price cap on Russian oil and tightened compliance rules for insurance firms and shippers that move it.
apnews.com
Jan. 6 rioter nabbed in Bumble dating app sting pleads guilty to assaulting officers
Andrew Taake was turned in by a Bumble user who used the dating app to try to elicit confessions from Donald Trump supporters who took part in the Capitol attack.
www.nbcnews.com
Iran hangs ‘child bride’ for murdering husband despite international calls for leniency
An Iranian woman who was married at 15 and sentenced to 10 years behind bars for murdering her husband, was executed Wednesday morning.
His dad murdered his mom on an African safari. Now he says the US government is ‘hell-bent’ on taking what’s left
The son of convicted murderer Larry Rudolph says the U.S. government won't return is father's confiscated assets.
Trump keeps massive lead, Haley ties DeSantis for second in new 2024 GOP presidential primary poll
A new national poll indicates former President Donald Trump remains the commanding front-runner for the Republican nomination, with former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley now in a tie with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Trump doubles down on immigrant 'blood' remark, says he 'never read Mein Kampf'
Former President Donald Trump doubled down on comments about immigrants poisoning America's blood at a campaign event in Waterloo, Iowa, on Tuesday night.
www.nbcnews.com
Momentum for second hostage deal between Israel and Hamas picks up - Washington Examiner
There are "very serious discussions and negotiations" for a second truce between Israel and Hamas that would secure the release of dozens of hostages, according to a United States official.Ismail Haniyeh, the top political leader of Hamas, traveled to Cairo on Wednesday to meet with Egyptian...
www.washingtonexaminer.comArgentina’s president announces economy deregulation as thousands protest against austerity
Argentine President Javier Milei’s government announced drastic economic measures that angered some social and labor groups.
apnews.com
Tensions between Trump and RNC spill over into public view | CNN Politics
Former President Donald Trump’s decision to skip next month’s third GOP presidential primary debate and instead hold a rivaling rally just up the road highlights how complicated – and at times thorny – the relationship between the Republican National Committee and the front-runner’s team has become.
www.cnn.com
Biden camp posts graphic with Trump pictured next to Hitler
The move was both highly aggressive and part of a calculated effort to link the 45th president and the Nazi leader.
www.politico.com
Trump removed from primary ballot in Colorado due to his role in the Jan. 6 insurrection
Former President Donald Trump will likely appeal to the Supreme Court after being removed from Colorado's primary ballot.
www.usatoday.com
Jailed Americans land in Texas after U.S. reaches deal with Venezuela to release an ally of President Nicolás Maduro
The Maduro ally, Alex Saab, is a Colombian businessman who was arrested in 2020 for his alleged role in a money laundering scheme.
www.nbcnews.comGOP rallies around Trump after Colorado judges boot him from 2024 ballot, underlining the difficulty any primary foe has in beating him
Trump's GOP primary foes quickly rallied to his side, a repeat of a scene that has played out ad nauseam in recent months.
Israel-Hamas war updates: Hunger in Gaza ‘highest ever recorded’ – Report
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification says hunger levels in Gaza are the highest ever recorded.
Biden brags about defying Supreme Court and relieving ‘136 million’ student loan debts - Washington Examiner
President Joe Biden bragged Wednesday about defying the Supreme Court over student loans and appeared to slip up verbally in doing so. The Supreme Court struck down Biden's $400 billion student loan forgiveness plan in June, ruling it was an illegal use of the president's powers. But since then...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
U.S. swaps Maduro ally for 'Fat Leonard' in Venezuela prisoner exchange
Venezuela for years has sought the release of Alex Saab, an ally of President Nicolas Maduro, from the United States, as he awaited a money launder trial.
Detroit officer accused of fatally punching 71-year-old man charged with manslaughter
A police officer was charged with manslaughter for allegedly punching a 71-year-old man who prosecutors say then fell and hit his head and later died from his injuries.
Dem senator seeks Thomas' recusal from key Jan. 6 case at SCOTUS
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) cited the efforts of the justice's wife, Virginia Thomas, to overturn the 2020 presidential election.
www.politico.com
Trump lawyers say request to have SCOTUS hear immunity claims presents 'momentous, historic questions'
The legal team for former President Donald Trump has filed a response to a request by Special Counsel Jack Smith to have the Supreme Court review his case.
Congo's presidential vote is extended as delays and smudged ballots lead to fears about credibility
Lengthy delays at the polls have forced officials to extend voting in Congo’s presidential election to Thursday.
apnews.com
Texas-based housing developer accused of targeting Hispanic borrowers in predatory lending scheme, lawsuit says
Prosecutors said the Houston-area developer served as a "one-stop shop for discriminatory lending."
www.cbsnews.com
Red state AGs blast special counsel push for SCOTUS to rush Trump case: ‘partisan interests’
A group of 19 GOP attorneys general says that special counsel Jack Smith's request to the Supreme Court to expedite Donald Trump's immunity claim is driven by "partisan interests."
What to know about the court that disqualified Trump from the primary ballot in Colorado
The Colorado Supreme Court is the state's highest court. It has seven justices, each of whom was appointed by a Democratic governor.
www.nbcnews.com
Israel-Gaza live updates: Israel 'deepening the war' in Gaza: Netanyahu
Updates on the Israel-Hamas war.
The Media Is All Wrong About Biden’s Poor Polling
The press is missing the most important fact.
www.politico.com
Analysis: What to know about the Iowa caucuses | CNN Politics
The first test of the 2024 presidential election hits January 15, when Iowa Republicans gather to caucus in high school gyms, community buildings and churches.
www.cnn.com
Justin Trudeau’s belated and shameful volte face on Gaza
The Canadian prime minister has called for a ceasefire in Gaza but he still refuses to welcome Palestinian refugees.
Three times John Fetterman broke the mold and surprised conservatives siding with him - Washington Examiner
Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) was elected to the Senate last year and was widely expected to be one of the more liberal members of the upper chamber of Congress, but the former Pennsylvania lieutenant governor has made some recent moves that have garnered praise from the right side of the aisle...
www.washingtonexaminer.comXi straight-up told Biden that China is going to take over Taiwan, report says. It could end in war.
The Chinese leader Biden told China's ambitions to control Taiwan were unchanged at a meeting meant to reduce tensions.
President Biden, in wake of Colorado ruling, says Trump 'no question' supported an insurrection
"He certainly supported an insurrection. No question about it. None. Zero," President Joe Biden said of former President Donald Trump.
www.usatoday.com
Chip Roy condemns Trump's disqualification from Colorado 2024 ballot, predicts SCOTUS will reverse decision
Rep. Chip Roy called the Colorado Supreme Court's decision to disqualify former President Trump from the ballot in 2024 "terrible" but not "unconstitutional."
Biden touts minority small business wins as Latino approval sags
A recent CNBC survey found that Republican front-runner Donald Trump has a 5-point lead against Biden among Latinos.
UN Security Council again delays Gaza aid resolution vote as high-level talks try to avoid US veto
A vote on the Arab-sponsored resolution was pushed back again until Wednesday as council members continued intense negotiations to avoid another veto by the United States.
apnews.com
If you faced a tax penalty during the pandemic, the IRS may have a new break for you
Waivers will be automatically applied, meaning taxpayers who qualify will not have to take any action on their own to benefit from the relief.
www.nbcnews.com
Malaysia bans Israel-flagged ships from its ports in response to Gaza war
PM says Israel’s actions ‘violate international law through the ongoing massacre and brutality against Palestinians’.
Read the Colorado Supreme Court's opinions in the Trump disqualification case
The decision by the Colorado Supreme Court's 4-3 majority tees up a high-stakes showdown in the U.S. Supreme Court over the constitutional provision at the center of the case.
www.cbsnews.com
Trump denies reading Hitler's "Mein Kampf" even as he doubles down on anti-immigration rhetoric
At a rally in Waterloo, Iowa, he repeated claims that illegal immigration is damaging the country.
www.cbsnews.com
Takeaways from the latest controversial and contentious Supreme Court term | CNN Politics
Last fall, just when the Supreme Court was gearing up to start a new term, Chief Justice John Roberts told an audience in Colorado that he was looking forward to a return to normal where the public would be able to attend oral arguments in person after a Covid-induced break and metal barricades...
www.cnn.comEU hails a migration deal breakthrough after years of talks. Critics worry about rights abuses
European Union negotiators have clinched a deal on the main parts of an overhaul of the bloc’s outdated asylum rules.
apnews.com
Colorado GOP is discussing switching to a caucus if Trump remains off the primary ballot
The prospective change to the state's presidential nominating process would face major logistical and legal hurdles.
www.nbcnews.com
US releases ally of Venezuela’s President Maduro in a swap for 10 jailed Americans
Ten Americans detained in Venezuela were released Wednesday -- including six deemed wrongfully detained, White House officials confirmed.
Prosecutors gain access to majority of Trump ally Scott Perry’s phone
Judge orders Republican congressman to turn over 1,700 records from his phone for 2020 election interference investigation
Supreme Court to take up Biden ‘good neighbor’ smog and climate rule | CNN Politics
The Supreme Court on Wednesday agreed to hear a challenge from Republican-led states and industry groups to block the Biden administration’s implementation of the so-called good neighbor rule – a regulation to reduce smog and air pollution.
www.cnn.com
Conservatives split after Trump calls for primary challenge against ‘RINO’ Chip Roy - Washington Examiner
Several conservatives are slamming Donald Trump after the former president called for a primary challenge against Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) due to the Texas Republican's support of Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) for the GOP presidential nomination. Trump attacked Roy on Monday, just hours after the Texas...
www.washingtonexaminer.comChina's earthquake survivors endure frigid temperatures and mourn the dead
Survivors of an earthquake in China mourned the dead and endured a frigid cold in temporary shelters Wednesday.
apnews.com
Tillis proposes banning federal dollars from states that 'misuse' 14th Amendment after Colorado Trump ruling
Republican North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis plans to propose legislation that would bar federal dollars from going to states that "misuse" the 14th Amendment.
Chick-fil-A could soon open on Sundays in some locations
A bill from the New York State Assembly would require food services for travelers be open seven days a week, which could include Chick-fil-A.
Barcodes starting with 729, 841, 871 do not prove goods were made in Israel | Fact check
Social media users calling for a boycott of Israeli goods say barcodes can tell them what products not to buy, but they are misreading the numbers.
www.usatoday.com
Biden's House Democrat challenger embraces progressives’ Medicare-for-All bill
Democrat presidential candidate Dean Phillips of Minnesota endorsed the controversial "Medicare-for-All" proposal put forth by the progressive wing of his party.
Suriname’s ex-dictator sentenced to 20 years in prison for the 1982 killings of political opponents
Suriname’s former dictator Desi Bouterse has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murders of 15 opponents of the then-military regime in December 1982, ending a historic, 16-year legal process.
apnews.com
Israeli strikes hit southern Gaza during live Al Jazeera report
Al Jazeera correspondent Hani Mahmoud was reporting live on TV when Israel bombed the buildings behind him.
Trump's legal defeat in Colorado may turn into political gold
A ruling removing him from Colorado's ballot may be overturned - and could even bolster his campaign.
www.bbc.com
Xfinity hack could compromise user information from 36 million customers, state AG says
Xfinity concluded on Dec. 6 that usernames and passwords for some customers were stolen along with names, contact information and other user data.
Modi's opposition furious as India suspends 141 parliamentary members
The suspended lawmakers were protesting a security breach in the parliament this month when a man stormed the lower house and released a gas canister.
www.nbcnews.com
Former NFL player thinks white people shouldn’t be ‘commenting on football’ - Washington Examiner
Another day, another racist, prejudiced, anti-white discriminatory message that doesn't receive widespread condemnation. That is life in the era of "anti-racism" and the "tolerance and acceptance" of the 21st century. Former NFL running back Rashard Mendenhall shared his disdain for white people...
www.washingtonexaminer.comUS defense secretary makes unannounced visit to USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier defending Israel
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has flown out to the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier to meet with the sailors he’s ordered to remain at sea to prevent the Israel-Hamas war from spilling over into a deadlier regional conflict.
apnews.com
Russian billionaire Abramovich denies benefiting from Ukraine war after EU court upholds sanctions
A European Union court on Wednesday upheld sanctions imposed on Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich following a legal challenge.
How has Trump performed in Colorado? See 2016 and 2020 primary, general election results
Though Trump will have time to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, the ruling throws into question his ability to run president in the state.
www.usatoday.com
The presidential race that no one wants
www.politico.com
Federal judge says research can't be used to link acetaminophen to autism, ADHD
A federal judge says scientific evidence cannot be used to link prenatal exposure to acetaminophen and autism or ADHD because plaintiffs don't have "admissible evidence."
CDC director says U.S. isn't yet near peak Covid or flu levels for the season
This winter's pattern is different from that of last year, when Covid, flu and RSV all peaked around the same time, Dr. Mandy Cohen told NBC News.
www.nbcnews.comIran summons Germany's ambassador over Berlin accusing Tehran in a plot to attack a synagogue
Iran's foreign ministry has summoned the German ambassador to Tehran in protest against a ruling that implicated the Islamic Republic in a plan to attack a synagogue in Germany last year.
apnews.com
How do people in Colorado feel about Trump being booted from ballot? Few seem joyful.
While many in the Democrat-dominated state support the move, some doubt the decision will hold - or fear it will backfire.
www.usatoday.com
Hawley blocks two GOP nominees from Senate confirmation over McConnell ties - Washington Examiner
Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) this week added to his list of disputes with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) after blocking efforts to advance the nominations of two of the GOP leader’s former aides. Hawley is withholding consent for the Senate to fast-track Andrew Ferguson’s nomination to...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Biden says Trump supported an insurrection but courts should decide if that disqualifies him from presidency | CNN Politics
President Joe Biden said Wednesday his predecessor Donald Trump “certainly supported an insurrection” but that it was up to the courts whether that disqualifies him from running for president.
www.cnn.com
"They've left me behind," American Paul Whelan says from Russian prison after failed bid to secure release
American Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia for 5 years, says it's "unfathomable to me that they've left me behind."
www.cbsnews.comBoston mayor apologizes to Black men wrongly accused in 1989 murder that shone spotlight on racism
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu issued a formal apology Wednesday to two Black men who were wrongly accused in a 1989 murder of a white woman.
apnews.com
Kremlin calls Ukraine peace plan 'absurd,' U.S. says it will tighten Russian oil price cap enforcement
Kyiv is struggling to obtain approval for aid packages from the U.S. and EU as its troops continue to face heavy fighting in harsh winter conditions.
Suspect in killing of TV news anchor's mother captured at Connecticut hotel
Claudia Voight, the mother of NBC Connecticut news anchor Heidi Voight, died in her Vermont home on Feb. 20.
www.cbsnews.com
Playbook: SCOTUS steps into the 2024 spotlight
And the Senate is done voting for the year.
www.politico.com
Schumer and McConnell vow to take 'swift action' on supplemental package early next year
The Senate is expected to leave town without passing a supplemental aid package that would unlock billions in aid to Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan and the southern border.
US Catholic leadership foresees challenges after repeated election defeats for abortion opponents
Repeatedly in recent years, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has stipulated that the threat of abortion remains its preeminent priority.
apnews.com
Warner Bros Discovery and Paramount in merger talks
The firms behind CNN, HBO and Barbie are reportedly in early stage discussions to join forces.
www.bbc.com
A racist accusation, a botched investigation. Then, decades later, an apology in Boston.
The mayor of Boston apologized on behalf of the city to two Black men who were wrongfully accused in a notorious 1989 murder case.
www.usatoday.com
The Supreme Court may decide the 2024 election. Here’s how | CNN Politics
The Supreme Court has become the ultimate force in the 2024 presidential election as the justices face several disputes over the fate of GOP frontrunner Donald Trump.
www.cnn.com
Austin says US support for Israel unshakeable as Gaza ceasefire calls grow
Lloyd Austin says US support ‘unshakeable’, urges Israel to do more to protect civilians and increase aid supplies.
Health officials push to get schoolchildren vaccinated as more US parents opt out
Parents are opting out of school vaccinations at the highest rate ever. Last school year, that amounted to 3% of U.S. children entering kindergarten.
apnews.com
Williamson cries foul over ballot access in Massachusetts
It's the latest in a string of state parties leaving Joe Biden's challengers off their lists of candidates for the primary ballot.
www.politico.com
How pro-Russian 'yacht' propaganda influenced US debate over Ukraine aid
A false rumour spread by a dubious AI-powered website caught the attention of leading politicians.
www.bbc.com
Blinken warns against self-inflicted defeat in Ukraine - Washington Examiner
Russia could achieve an unearned victory in Ukraine if Congress fails to authorize the provision of additional military aid for the war-torn country, according to Secretary of State Antony Blinken.“What we do, what we fail to do, in this moment will have profound consequences for decades to...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Lawmakers look to expand Son of Sam law to cover spouses in wake of Gilgo Beach case
Lawmakers are pushing for an expansion of a state law that prohibits convicts from profiting from their crime.
Descendants fight to maintain historic Black communities. Keeping their legacy alive is complicated
Historic Black communities have dwindled from their once-thriving existence in the US and efforts to preserve what's left encounter complicated challenges
apnews.com
High-ranking Hezbollah member faces terrorism charges in 1994 bombing of Jewish community center in Buenos Aires, DOJ says | CNN Politics
The Department of Justice has charged a high-ranking member of the terrorist organization Hezbollah for his alleged involvement in the 1994 bombing of a Buenos Aires Jewish community center, according to an indictment unsealed Wednesday by the DOJ.
www.cnn.com
How we know humans are causing warming: A brief history of climate science | Fact check
More than a century of experimental and observational research shows that global warming is driven by greenhouse gases emitted by human activity.
www.usatoday.com
House Republicans land last-minute Ohio recruit for key House race
House Republicans launched a last-minute scramble to recruit state Rep. Derek Merrin.
www.politico.com
'Medicare for All' bill becomes part of Dean Phillips' presidential pitch
The member of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus comes around to a progressive health care bill — even if he disagrees with key parts of it.
www.politico.comNorth Dakota judge to decide whether to temporarily block part of abortion law that limits doctors
Physicians and the former sole abortion provider in North Dakota have asked a state district court judge to temporarily block the enforcement of part of a revised law that bans most abortions so doctors can perform the procedure to save patients' lives or health.
apnews.com
Soros-backed district attorney under fire for releasing man with seven DUIs charged in the death of two - Washington Examiner
A man who committed his seventh DUI, and is charged as involved in the death of two people, has been released after his charges and bond were reduced, sparking outrage against Jose Garza, the Soros-funded district attorney overseeing Travis County, Texas. Roberto Rangel, 52, allegedly pulled out...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
FBI searches home after reported cross-burning as part of "criminal civil rights investigation"
The search comes after a couple in South Carolina allegedly erected a cross facing their Black neighbors' home and lit it on fire, according to incident reports.
www.cbsnews.com
Texas military denies ignoring migrant river pleas
The Texas Military Department said soldiers approached the woman and found she was not in medical distress.
www.bbc.comWhite supremacist sentenced for threatening jury and witnesses at synagogue shooter's trial
A self-proclaimed white supremacist has been sentenced for making online threats toward the jury and witnesses at the trial of a man who killed 11 congregants at a Pittsburgh synagogue.
apnews.com
Lawmakers fear January mess as Congress fails to address mounting crises | CNN Politics
Senators bolted for the holidays on Wednesday — and left behind a mountain of problems for Congress to tackle immediately in January as domestic and international crises mount.
www.cnn.com
IDF rebuffs accusations it killed two women at church in Gaza as investigation continues
The Israeli Defense Forces says reports of two women killed by Israeli sniper fire in the area of a church do not match the conclusions of an internal review.
Two railroad crossings are temporarily closed in Texas. Will there be a significant impact on trade?
The federal government closed railroad crossings in two Texas border towns, raising concerns about the potential impact on cross-border trade.
apnews.com
Democrats say polling is ‘useless’ as Trump pulls ahead of Biden in surveys
Democrats in Washington are publicly rejecting -- but privately worried about -- polls showing Donald Trump with a significant lead over President Biden.
Minnesota unveils new state flag design
It features a white eight-pointed star against a dark blue background shaped like the state.
www.bbc.comAI image-generators are being trained on explicit photos of children, a study shows
Hidden inside the foundation of popular artificial intelligence image-generators are thousands of images of child sexual abuse.
apnews.com
'Last in line': Biden condemns Trump for supporting wealthy, instead of working class
President Joe Biden spoke at the Wisconsin Black Chamber of Commerce and highlighted his administration's efforts to support Black-owned businesses.
www.usatoday.com
Mayors got their cities through the pandemic. Now they're paying the price.
Pissed off constituents. Nonstop work weeks. And deteriorating quality of life.
www.politico.com
International astronaut will be invited on future NASA moon landing
“We know from experience that collaboration on space delivers,” said Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
www.nbcnews.com
White House defends leaving Hunter Biden off Air Force One and Marine One manifests - Washington Examiner
The White House has stood by its decision to exclude Hunter Biden from the Air Force One and Marine One passenger manifests it shares with reporters."That's something that we've never done," press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday about providing a list of family members...
www.washingtonexaminer.comStock market today: Asian shares are mostly higher after a rebound on Wall Street
Shares are mostly higher in Asia after several strong profit reports helped Wall Street claw back most of its sharp loss from day before.
apnews.com
Trump asks Supreme Court to reject special counsel and stay out of immunity dispute for now | CNN Politics
Donald Trump opposes the special counsel’s request for the Supreme Court to decide right now whether he has any immunity from federal prosecution for alleged crimes he committed while in office, lawyers for the former president told the justices in court papers Wednesday.
www.cnn.com
Takeaways from Colorado’s historic ruling that Trump is ineligible for office based on 14th Amendment’s ‘insurrectionist ban’ | CNN Politics
The Colorado Supreme Court made history Tuesday with an unprecedented, freeze-in-your-tracks ruling that former President Donald Trump is constitutionally ineligible to run in 2024 because the 14th Amendment’s ban on insurrectionists holding public office covers his conduct on January 6, 2021.
www.cnn.comCocoa grown illegally in a Nigerian rainforest heads to companies that supply major chocolate makers
As the world’s demand for chocolate grows, farmers in Nigeria are moving into protected areas of a forest reserve that’s home to endangered species like African forest elephants.
apnews.com
House conservatives weaponize debt deal, backed by Trump adviser
Conservatives who fought the summertime bipartisan agreement now see it as a boost. And they're getting coaching from Donald Trump's former budget chief.
www.politico.com
California hammered with rain and flooding ahead of holiday weekend: Latest
A powerful rainstorm is hitting the California coast causing dangerous travel conditions as the holiday rush begins.
How Biden is pushing immigrants into Trump’s arms before 2024: ‘I want Trump back’ - Washington Examiner
President Joe Biden has trailed former President Donald Trump in various polls in recent months, with immigrants being the latest to express their discontent with the current commander in chief. Democrats have traditionally done well with immigrants and Latinos in south Texas, but a Politico...
www.washingtonexaminer.comFrom AI and inflation to Elon Musk and Taylor Swift, the business stories that dominated 2023
The tide turned against inflation. Artificial intelligence went mainstream — for good or ill. Labor unions capitalized on their growing might to win more generous pay and benefits.
apnews.com
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun: Narendra Modi breaks silence on US murder plot allegation
The US has accused an Indian man of conspiring to murder a Sikh separatist leader in New York.
www.bbc.com
False claim Georgia's Brad Raffensperger was arrested by military for treason | Fact check
A site that routinely posts fabricated claims of public figures being arrested made Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger its latest subject.
www.usatoday.com
Mexican business group says closure of US rail border crossings costing $100 million per day
A leading Mexican business group says the U.S. decision to close two railway border crossings into Texas is costing $100 million per day in delayed shipments.
apnews.com
Trump’s ballot battle: States that could follow Colorado’s lead and try to block former president in 2024 - Washington Examiner
Former President Donald Trump was ruled ineligible to be president under the 14th Amendment by the Colorado Supreme Court on Tuesday, but Colorado may not be the last state to rule against Trump. With several lawsuits from liberal groups and an expected appeal from the Trump campaign to the...
www.washingtonexaminer.com
UN again delays vote on Gaza humanitarian aid | CNN Politics
The United Nations Security Council on Wednesday delayed for the third time this week the vote on a resolution calling for a suspension in fighting and encouraging more humanitarian aid into the beleaguered Gaza Strip.
www.cnn.comHow major US stock indexes fared Wednesday, 12/20/2023
Wall Street slammed the brakes on its big rally following disappointing profit reports from companies and warnings that the market had simply gone too far, too fast.
apnews.comOnPolitics: Donald Trump was disqualified from Colorado's primary ballot. Here's why.
The decision is sure to spark a complicated legal battle. USA TODAY’s reporters are here to explain.
www.usatoday.com
Oklahoma judge rules a man who wrongfully spent nearly 50 years in prison for murder is innocent
Glynn Simmons, 71, who was released in July after prosecutors agreed that key evidence wasn't turned over to his defense lawyers, was ruled innocent Tuesday.
www.nbcnews.comJack Smith added a Supreme Court specialist. Trump has the Missouri lawyer who sued Joe Biden.
A large experience gap is emerging as the special counsel and the former president assemble their Supreme Court teams.
www.politico.comJustice Department sues Texas developer accused of luring Hispanic homebuyers into predatory loans
The Justice Department has filed its first predatory mortgage lending case against a Texas developer accused of luring tens of thousands of Hispanic homebuyers into “bait and switch” sales through platforms like TikTok.
apnews.com
Recalled applesauce pouches now linked to more than 200 lead poisoning cases in 33 states, CDC says
Cinnamon used in the applesauce pouches was contaminated with "extremely high" lead levels.
www.cbsnews.com
Toyota recalling 1.12 million vehicles over potential air bag issue
A short-circuit in a sensor could cause air bags not to deploy as designed.
www.nbcnews.com
Why the Dow just tumbled about 500 points after nearly hitting a record | CNN Business
What. Just. Happened?
www.cnn.comClosing prices for crude oil, gold and other commodities
Benchmark U.S. crude oil for February delivery rose 78 cents to $74.22 per barrel Wednesday. Brent crude for February delivery rose 47 cents to $79.70 per barrel.
apnews.com
WHO declares new JN.1 COVID strain a "variant of interest." Here's what that means.
The JN.1 variant of COVID-19 is spreading, but health officials say the symptoms are not more severe and the added public health risk is "low."
www.cbsnews.com
Bahamas cruise diverted to Canada and New England | CNN
MSC Meraviglia passengers didn’t get the balmy getaway they were expecting when their Bahamas itinerary was changed to New England and Canada because of bad weather.
www.cnn.com
Woman posed as Waffle House employee before stealing cash, Georgia police say
The unidentified woman worked for two hours before taking money from the register, police said.
www.nbcnews.com
McDonald's CosMc's, Starbucks and Dunkin': How do their drinks compare in calories and sugar?
How do CosMc's, Starbucks and Dunkin' drinks stack up in calories and sugar? We looked at the nutritional breakdown of 5 similar beverages across the companies to see how they compare.
www.cbsnews.com
Honda recalls thousands of Honda CR-V hybrids over electrical issue that could lead to fires
At issue is a 12-volt battery cable that may be missing a fuse.
www.nbcnews.com
False claim pro-Palestinian activists removed US flag at Golden Gate Bridge | Fact check
A spokesperson for the bridge said the U.S. flag was not removed during a Dec. 6 protest. Demonstrators hoisted a Palestinian flag under an U.S. one.
www.usatoday.com
NEWS FROM THE HILL:
>Ex-White House lawyer says Supreme Court could rule ‘9-0’ in possible Trump 14th Amendment case
>De Niro: Biden ‘on a gurney’ still better than Trump
>Hawley blocks McConnell-backed nominees, escalating feud
>Sen. Tillis to introduce legislation barring federal funds from states ‘misusing’ 14th Amendment
>The Memo: Colorado court may have given surprise gift to Trump
>Barr says Colorado court’s Trump ruling ‘legally wrong,’ will ‘backfire’
>Senate adjourns until 2024 without deal on Ukraine, border security
>42 percent of GOP Iowa caucusgoers say ‘poisoning the blood’ remarks make them more likely to support Trump: poll
>Kinzinger says he’s ‘mixed’ on Trump 14th Amendment ruling in Colorado
>Border Patrol says surge in border crossings is overwhelming its resources
>Elon Musk responds to John Oliver takedown
>NY AG sues SiriusXM for ‘trapping’ customers in unwanted subscriptions
>Haley blasts Colorado ruling on Trump: ‘That’s not a democracy’
>Dan Patrick suggests taking Biden off ballot in Texas
NEWS FROM REUTERS:
>Tesla blamed drivers for failures of parts it long knew were defective
>House Speaker Johnson among US politicians with ancestral ties to slavery
>Egypt seeks to broker Gaza ceasefire as Hamas, Israel assert demands
>Shipping industry in the dark over US-led Red Sea navy force
>Morning Bid: Global rally shudders to halt
>Houthi leader threatens to attack US warships if Washington targets Yemen
>Hamas leader visits Egypt amid intensive talks on new ceasefire
>Anti-war candidate Duntsova applies to run in election against Russia's Putin
>U.S. Red Sea taskforce gets limited backing from some allies
>Polish government takes public TV news channel off air amid reform drive
>North Korea's Kim warns of 'nuclear attack' if provoked with nukes -KCNA
>Canada's Trudeau sees shift in India relations after US plot revealed -CBC
>Riyadh reluctant to derail Iran detente over U.S. Red Sea taskforce
>US-China relations: Expect more turbulence in 2024
Last edited:
