â–¼ Sunday, December 21

DOJ removes Trump photo from Epstein files webpage. Concerns over victim impact. FBI ignored Epstein's child porn involvement for 10 years. Multiple documents missing from Epstein files.
Left (26) Right (25)
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche addressed the disappearance of Jeffrey Epstein-related documents removed by the Department of Justice following concerns from victims. The DOJ started releasing files related to Epstein, creating the "Epstein Library" in response to the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Sen. Tim Kaine recommended that former President Bill Clinton address his photos with Epstein, which were released by the DOJ. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized the partial release of files by the Justice Department. Shocking new documents revealed that an ex-employee of Epstein warned the FBI about his interest in child pornography in the 1990s. Multiple reports indicate that several files related to Epstein released by the DOJ have since disappeared, including images of nude paintings.
  • Blanche says DOJ removed Trump photo from Epstein files webpage over victim concerns
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Jeffries: DOJ release of Epstein files 'falls short of what the law requires'
    abcnews.go.com
  • FBI was warned that Jeffrey Epstein was into child porn — but ignored it for 10 years, docs show
    nypost.com
  • Epstein Files Photos Disappear From Government Website, Including One of Trump
    www.nytimes.com
  • Epstein files: A number of documents, including Trump photo, reportedly removed from DOJ release site
    www.cnbc.com
An obesity expert discusses how to determine if GLP-1s are suitable. Many older Americans are discontinuing weight-loss medications.
Left (1) Right (1)
Dr. Salas-Whalen emphasizes the importance of body composition testing in determining the suitability of GLP-1 weight-loss medications, rather than solely relying on the number on the scale. Despite the benefits of GLP-1s, half of patients in some studies stopped taking them within a year due to factors such as cost and side effects.
  • Obesity expert reveals the best way to decide if GLP-1s are right for you
    www.foxnews.com
  • Older Americans Quit Weight-Loss Drugs in Droves
    www.nytimes.com
Conservative rift at Turning Point USA's AmericaFest as Ben Shapiro and Tucker Carlson clash. 'Jewish question' controversy arises.
Left (5) Right (19)
At AmericaFest, conservative figures Tucker Carlson and Ben Shapiro clashed over Israel and identity politics, revealing rifts within the Trump-era coalition. The event saw insults exchanged, with disagreements over conspiracy theories, antisemitism, and the definition of American identity. Ben Shapiro criticized Tucker Carlson for giving a platform to controversial figures like Nick Fuentes. The conference also featured a heated debate on Israel, with Steve Bannon calling Shapiro "cancer" and discussions on antisemitism. Attendees speculated on a potential 2028 presidential showdown between JD Vance and Josh Shapiro, which could impact Rust Belt politics.
  • DAVID MARCUS: Erika Kirk is the mother squabbling conservatives need
    www.foxnews.com
  • Turning Point’s Annual Gathering Turns Into a Gripefest
    www.nytimes.com
  • Bannon calls Ben Shapiro a ‘cancer’ in Turning Point conference speech
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Erika Kirk endorses JD Vance for president at tense conservative event
    www.bbc.com
  • After Charlie Kirk’s Death, MAGA Battles Over Free Speech
    www.wsj.com
Lane Kiffin receives bonus from former team's College Football Playoff win. Oregon, Ole Miss, and Miami advance in playoffs.
Left (0) Right (4)
- Lane Kiffin received a $250,000 bonus for Ole Miss' win over Tulane in the College Football Playoff. - Oregon defeated James Madison 51-34 in the College Football Playoff first round, advancing to the Orange Bowl behind Dante Moore's strong performance. - Ole Miss had a dominant first-round win over Tulane in the College Football Playoff, advancing to the quarterfinals despite Lane Kiffin's departure. - Miami pulled off a surprise victory over Texas A&M in the College Football Playoff debut, with Malachi Toney's late score securing a first-round win in College Station.
  • Lane Kiffin earns hefty bonus from former team's College Football Playoff win
    www.foxnews.com
Bernie Sanders criticized for blocking bill to aid pediatric cancer patients, with Vance leading GOP criticism.
Left (0) Right (2)
Left-wing Senator Bernie Sanders is receiving criticism for preventing the Senate from expediting a bill designed to provide pediatric cancer patients with access to comprehensive drug treatments. Vice President JD Vance and Republicans have strongly criticized Sanders for blocking the legislation, known as the Mikaela Naylon Give Kids a Chance Act, which aimed to improve treatment options for children with cancer.
  • Bernie Sanders blasted for tanking bill to help pediatric cancer patients: ‘For leverage’
    nypost.com
  • Vance leads GOP charge in blasting ‘Grinch’ Bernie Sanders for killing pediatric cancer bill: ‘Really disgraceful’
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
Australian PM booed at Bondi Beach Hanukkah vigil. Australia to tighten hate speech laws, gun control post-attack. Australian Jews lived in fear before massacre.
Left (51) Right (55)
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faced backlash at a vigil for Bondi Beach shooting victims, where 10,000 mourners gathered. Australia is considering new hate speech laws and a gun buyback program following the attack, leading to a debate on the government's response. The country has increased security measures amid antisemitic attacks, with concerns over the blurred lines between anger at Israel and hatred of Jews. The attacker at a Hanukkah celebration came from a Muslim area, prompting criticism from Josh Frydenberg over rising antisemitic violence and accusing the government of enabling extremism through inaction.
  • Australian PM Albanese gets booed during Bondi Beach vigil honoring Hanukkah attack victims
    www.foxnews.com
  • Long Before Bondi Massacre, Australian Jews Lived With a Sense of Peril
    www.nytimes.com
  • Opinion: Remembering the lives lost to a senseless act of terror
    www.npr.org
  • Seven men arrested near Bondi Beach as Australian police foil suspected terrorist attack
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • WATCH: 'It was a miracle': Bondi Beach survivor speaks out
    abcnews.go.com
Mamdani's inauguration marks a new era with a Broadway block party. He celebrates Hanukkah with Mandy Patinkin and faces criticism for past remarks.
Left (3) Right (4)
Zohran Mamdani, the Mayor-elect of New York City, is set to be sworn in on Jan. 1 in a large celebration that will accommodate 40,000 spectators. He recently released a video celebrating the "Festival of Lights" with actor Mandy Patinkin. Mamdani has endorsed a fellow Democratic Socialist to replace him in the state Legislature. While criticized for elevating "left-wing zealots" within his staff, he has also been credited for choosing moderates. Mamdani stated that he was unaware of antisemitic posts made by a woman on his team and would not have hired her if he had known.
  • Mamdani Inauguration to Usher in ‘New Era’ With Broadway Block Party
    www.nytimes.com
  • Anti-Zionist Mamdani celebrates Hanukkah with Jewish actor Mandy Patinkin
    nypost.com
  • Washington Post editorial says Mamdani's team is a mix of 'normal bureaucrats' and 'left-wing zealots'
    www.foxnews.com
Manhunt in South Africa for suspects after gunmen kill 9 and wound 10 at tavern.
Left (2) Right (1)
A manhunt is currently ongoing after masked gunmen killed nine people at a tavern in Bekkersdal township, South Africa. At least 10 others were hospitalized following the attack, which involved a group of about a dozen assailants opening fire at the pub. The incident took place early Sunday in Bekkersdal, located west of Johannesburg.
  • Manhunt underway in South Africa after gunmen open fire at tavern, killing 9 and wounding 10
    www.foxnews.com
  • Suspects sought after 9 killed in South Africa tavern mass shooting
    abcnews.go.com
  • 9 killed, 10 wounded in South African pub shooting
    www.npr.org
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasizes increasing AI use to combat domestic and global threats.
Left (0) Right (2)
FBI Director Kash Patel has announced an artificial intelligence initiative to support investigators and analysts in the national security sector. The AI expansion aims to help combat evolving threats and ensure the United States stays ahead of malicious actors in the digital age.
  • Kash Patel says FBI boosting AI use ‘key component’ to countering domestic, global threats
    nypost.com
  • FBI Director Kash Patel says bureau ramping up AI to counter domestic, global threats
    www.foxnews.com
130,000 people in San Francisco lose power due to an outage, disrupting transportation and services.
Left (2) Right (1)
A massive power outage in San Francisco left 130,000 people without electricity and caused self-driving cars to stall in the streets. The outage also disrupted public transportation, with at least 124,000 customers out of 414,000 losing power. PG&E is working to fix the issue.
  • San Francisco power outage puts 130,000 in the dark, as self-driving car service stops vehicles in the street
    www.foxnews.com
  • San Francisco outage disrupts trains, leaves 130,000 without power
    www.latimes.com
  • Nearly a Third of San Francisco Loses Electricity
    www.nytimes.com
Russia describes Ukraine peace talks as constructive. Kremlin launches deadly strike on Odesa. US offers to mediate talks as negotiations stall.
Left (1) Right (2)
Peace talks between Russia and Ukraine are reportedly progressing positively in Florida, according to a Kremlin envoy. The talks are based on a U.S.-proposed plan to end the war in Ukraine, following meetings between U.S. officials, Ukrainian President Zelensky, and European officials in Berlin. Despite this progress, a deadly missile strike in Odesa resulted in the deaths of eight people. The United States has offered to facilitate trilateral negotiations between Russia, Ukraine, and themselves in an effort to resolve the ongoing conflict.
  • Russia says Ukraine peace talks 'proceeding constructively,' as Kremlin launches deadly strike on Odesa
    www.foxnews.com
  • Russia says talks on US peace plan for Ukraine 'are proceeding constructively'
    www.npr.org
  • US offers to hold peace talks with Ukraine and Russia as negotiations stall: Zelensky
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
Anna Paulina Luna endorses JD Vance for president in 2028.
Left (0) Right (2)
Vice President JD Vance is considering a presidential run in 2028, with Rep. Anna Paulina Luna expressing support for his potential candidacy. Vance, a loyal ally of President Donald Trump, faces new opportunities and challenges in his potential bid for the presidency. Luna highlighted the need to look ahead to the future while acknowledging Trump's current leadership.
  • What can JD Vance do to stay ahead of the pack for 2028? 
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Anna Paulina Luna backs Vance for president in 2028
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
December Social Security payments are being distributed. January payments of $994 will be sent in 9 and 10 days.
Left (0) Right (3)
The third round of December Social Security payments for retirees, capped at $5,108, will be issued in three days. Retirees born on or after the 21st of the month will receive this payment on Wednesday, Dec. 24. January 2026 Supplemental Security Income payments, up to $994, will be issued to recipients in 10 days on Dec. 31, as the first of January falls on a weekend.
  • Third round of December Social Security payments goes out in three days
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • January Social Security direct payment worth $994 goes out in 10 days
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • January Social Security direct payment worth $994 goes out in nine days
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
Rob Reiner's historic estate was the site of a tragic event. Son charged with murders. Bodies released after autopsies.
Left (70) Right (38)
Rob Reiner and his wife Michele were found murdered in their Brentwood home with a Hollywood history. The house was originally built by Henry Fonda in 1936. The couple's classic films are now streaming on Tubi. A former "Family Guy" production assistant recalls Nick Reiner's troubled past before he was charged with the murder of his parents. The bodies of Rob and Michele Reiner were returned to their family after autopsies were performed by the Los Angeles Medical Examiner. For more Hollywood headlines and celebrity interviews, check out the Fox News Entertainment Newsletter.
  • Rob Reiner's historic Brentwood estate: From celebrated Hollywood legacy to scene of tragedy
    www.foxnews.com
  • Brentwood is mourning the Reiners, but also having O.J. Simpson flashbacks
    www.latimes.com
  • Rob Reiner Family Tragedy Strikes a Nerve for Families Fighting Addiction
    www.nytimes.com
  • Watch: Moment Nick Reiner is arrested after being seen in convenience store
    www.bbc.com
  • His Favorite Courtroom Drama Is ‘A Few Good Men.’ Now He’s Nick Reiner’s Lawyer.
    www.wsj.com
Multiple players were ejected after a brawl during Eagles vs. Commanders game, with Eagles winning the title.
Left (1) Right (1)
The Philadelphia Eagles secured the NFC East title by defeating the Washington Commanders 29-18. The game included a fourth-quarter fight leading to the ejection of three players after Saquon Barkley's late score. This victory marks the Eagles' back-to-back NFC East titles.
  • Trio ejected as Eagles beat Commanders to win title
    www.bbc.com
  • Multiple players ejected after brawl breaks out during Eagles-Commanders game
    www.foxnews.com
Journal investigates Scott Spivey killing, questioning self-defense claim in 29 shots fired in 24 seconds.
Left (0) Right (2)
Authorities have ruled Scott Spivey's death as a lawful homicide, a decision that is now being reviewed by a special prosecutor following an investigation by the Wall Street Journal.
  • 29 Shots in 24 Seconds: How a Killing Was Cast as Self-Defense
    www.wsj.com
  • How the Journal Reported Its Latest Findings on the Scott Spivey Killing
    www.wsj.com
Trump endorses Bruce Blakeman for NY governor after Elise Stefanik exits race.
Left (0) Right (3)
President Donald Trump has endorsed Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman for New York governor, following Rep. Elise Stefanik's withdrawal from the 2026 gubernatorial race. Trump praised Blakeman as "MAGA all the way" and a long-time supporter.
  • Trump endorses Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman for New York governor after Stefanik exit
    www.foxnews.com
  • Trump quickly endorses Blakeman for New York governor after Stefanik bows out
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Trump endorses Bruce Blakeman for NY governor — a day after GOP Rep. Elise Stefanik dropped out of race
    nypost.com
Comedian Bowen Yang is leaving "SNL" mid-season after 8 seasons.
Left (3) Right (1)
"Saturday Night Live" cast member Bowen Yang, who has been with the show since 2018 and earned five Emmy nominations, is set to co-host his final episode alongside Ariana Grande. Yang, a prominent figure on the show, is also known for hosting a podcast and starring in the Wicked film series. His departure will occur midway through season 51.
  • Comedian Bowen Yang announces Saturday Night Live exit
    www.bbc.com
  • Bowen Yang leaves 'SNL' midway through his 8th season
    www.npr.org
  • Bowen Yang Is Leaving ‘S.N.L.’ After This Weekend’s Episode
    www.nytimes.com
  • 'SNL's' Bowen Yang leaving show mid-season
    www.foxnews.com

â–¼ Saturday, December 20

NASCAR legend Greg Biffle and family died in a fatal plane crash. NTSB reveals distressing message sent before the crash. Trump and others remember Biffle.
Left (6) Right (13)
NASCAR legend Greg Biffle and his family tragically died in a plane crash at a North Carolina airport. The NTSB released photos of the aftermath and confirmed that all seven aboard, including Biffle, perished. President Trump expressed condolences, calling Biffle a "great young man." The crash is under investigation by the NTSB.
  • Wreckage of plane crash that killed NASCAR legend Greg Biffle and family shown in photos
    www.foxnews.com
  • Greg Biffle’s Plane Turned Back Minutes After Takeoff
    www.nytimes.com
  • WATCH: NASCAR legend and family killed in fiery plane crash
    abcnews.go.com
  • Multiple deaths reported in North Carolina crash of business jet connected to retired NASCAR driver
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Small aircraft crashes in North Carolina while landing
    www.bbc.com
US seizes second oil tanker near Venezuela as part of oil blockade enforcement. U.S. Coast Guard boards tanker carrying Venezuelan oil.
Left (4) Right (1)
US forces, including the Coast Guard and Navy, seized a second oil tanker near Venezuela in accordance with President Trump's blockade. The vessel, flying a Panamanian flag and not on the US sanctions list, was stopped in international waters. The Coast Guard is currently intercepting another sanctioned vessel off the coast of Venezuela.
  • US seizes second oil tanker off Venezuela's coast
    www.bbc.com
  • Second tanker seized near Venezuela as US enforces oil blockade
    www.foxnews.com
  • U.S. Coast Guard Boards Tanker Carrying Venezuelan Oil
    www.nytimes.com
  • U.S. forces stop a 2nd merchant vessel off Venezuela coast, officials say
    www.npr.org
  • US seizing another ship in the Caribbean: Sources
    abcnews.go.com
Vivek Ramaswamy targets conservative youth, criticizes online fixation on heritage, and challenges anti-Indian hate in Turning Point address.
Left (1) Right (2)
Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy references JFK's message on serving the country while discussing the MAHA health agenda and state-level reforms. He criticizes the "heritage American" vision, emphasizing ideals over racial identity. Ramaswamy, a leading Republican candidate, calls out rising intolerance within his party towards Indian American immigrants and their children.
  • Vivek Ramaswamy turns to conservative youth to shape the movement’s next phase, analyzes 2026 races
    www.foxnews.com
  • Vivek Ramaswamy criticizes pockets of 'online right' fixated on heritage in Turning Point address
    www.foxnews.com
  • Vivek Ramaswamy Challenges Conservatives on Surging Anti-Indian Hate
    www.nytimes.com
DOT targets illegal immigrant truckers ahead of holiday travel, denying California's license reissue effort for immigrant drivers.
Left (1) Right (1)
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is taking action to address a commercial driver's license (CDL) crisis following deadly incidents involving unvetted drivers, leading to license revocations. Thousands of immigrant drivers in California were disappointed to hear that their expiring CDLs would not be reissued as planned, as federal regulators had not authorized it.
  • DOT cracks down on thousands of illegal immigrant truckers, as agency looks to holiday travel: Duffy
    www.foxnews.com
  • Immigrant truck drivers in limbo as feds deny California effort to reissue licenses
    www.latimes.com
Lou Cannon, renowned journalist and biographer of Ronald Reagan, passes away at 92.
Left (2) Right (0)
Lou Cannon, a prominent journalist who extensively covered Ronald Reagan's political journey, the Rodney King riots, and other significant news events, passed away at the age of 92. Cannon was highly regarded for his in-depth knowledge of the former president, following Reagan's career from his time as California governor to his two terms in the White House.
  • Ronald Reagan biographer, legendary California journalist Lou Cannon dies
    www.latimes.com
  • Lou Cannon, Journalist Who Chronicled Reagan in Books, Dies at 92
    www.nytimes.com
Republican Senator Cynthia Lummis will not seek re-election in 2026, becoming the 11th senator to leave the upper chamber.
Left (1) Right (2)
Senator Cynthia Lummis from Wyoming, a conservative who has been in office since 2021, has announced that she will not seek re-election in 2026. She cited exhaustion and feeling overwhelmed after a challenging session on Capitol Hill. This decision makes her the 11th senator to announce plans to step down from the Senate after a tough year with Republicans in the majority.
  • Cynthia Lummis, a One-Term G.O.P. Senator, Will Not Seek Re-election
    www.nytimes.com
  • Republican Sen Cynthia Lummis will not seek re-election in 2026, citing the 'energy required'
    www.foxnews.com
  • Cynthia Lummis becomes 11th senator to walk away from upper chamber in 2026
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
Trump's administration targets Maduro's inner circle and family with new sanctions, putting Chevron in a high-stakes situation amid Venezuela's oil blockade.
Left (1) Right (6)
Chevron, the only U.S. company in Venezuela, faces challenges due to political and economic instability in the country. The Trump administration is increasing pressure on Venezuelan President Maduro's government with new sanctions on his associates and their families. The Department of the Treasury sanctioned family members of Maduro's wife's nephew for corruption and financial assistance to Caracas. Venezuela, once closely tied to the U.S. during the Cold War, is now considered a major enemy by the Trump administration.
  • Trump’s Venezuela oil blockade puts Chevron in the middle of a high-stakes sanctions crackdown
    www.foxnews.com
  • Trump ups pressure on Maduro with new sanctions on associates and their families
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • How Venezuela Went From U.S. Ally to Trump Target
    www.nytimes.com