â–¼ Wednesday, December 31

Jack Smith criticizes Jan. 6 witness Cassidy Hutchinson for relying on hearsay and lacking firsthand evidence about the Capitol riot.
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Jack Smith testified before Congress that witnesses provided differing perspectives compared to Cassidy Hutchinson regarding President Donald Trump's actions on January 6. This testimony was part of the Jan. 6 select panel's televised hearings that took place in June 2022.
  • Jack Smith says key Jan 6 witness relied on hearsay, lacked firsthand evidence
    www.foxnews.com
  • Jan. 6 panel’s ‘star witness’ Cassidy Hutchinson provided ‘secondhand hearsay’ on Capitol riot: Jack Smith
    nypost.com
ACA subsidies expiring, leading to premium increases. Republicans struggle to extend subsidies. Farmers facing higher health insurance costs. Sen. Jim Justice criticizes GOP's healthcare understanding.
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Enhanced Obamacare subsidies that have been helping millions of Americans pay for health coverage are set to expire on December 31. Lawmakers have failed to extend these subsidies before the deadline, leaving Republicans facing pressure on health care policy ahead of the midterms. The expiration of these subsidies is expected to make health coverage unaffordable for many U.S. farmers, who have already been struggling due to tariffs, inflation, and other federal policies. Congress will need to work on finding a bipartisan solution to address the issue when they reconvene in the new year. The Senate's inability to extend or replace the expiring subsidies will result in a premium price spike affecting tens of millions of Americans.
  • ACA subsidies that lower monthly premiums for millions of Americans set to expire
    abcnews.go.com
  • Clock runs out on extending Obamacare subsidies, as health care price hikes rock Republicans
    nypost.com
  • Farmers are about to pay a lot more for health insurance
    www.npr.org
  • Congress fails to save Obamacare subsidies after shutdown fight, premiums set to surge
    www.foxnews.com
Tatiana Schlossberg, granddaughter of JFK, dies at 35 after submitting a poignant essay on her cancer diagnosis to The New Yorker.
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Tatiana Schlossberg, granddaughter of John F. Kennedy and an environmental journalist, was diagnosed with a rare mutation of acute myeloid leukemia in 2024. She recently shared her diagnosis in an essay for The New Yorker, which was accepted immediately and barely edited. Despite her prognosis of less than a year to live, Schlossberg was remembered as a dedicated journalist who insisted on putting in the work.
  • WATCH: Tatiana Schlossberg, granddaughter of JFK, dies at 35
    abcnews.go.com
  • Tatiana Schlossberg Submitted a Heartbreaking Essay to The New Yorker on Her Cancer Diagnosis, Fully Formed
    www.nytimes.com
  • Tatiana Schlossberg, granddaughter of John F Kennedy, dies aged 35
    www.bbc.com
  • Tatiana Schlossberg, Granddaughter of JFK, Dies at 35
    www.wsj.com
  • Tatiana Schlossberg, JFK's granddaughter, dies at 35 after year-and-a-half leukemia battle
    www.foxnews.com
DOJ enlists 400 attorneys to review 5M pages of Epstein files for release after missed deadline.
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The Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking assistance to review 5.2 million pages of documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. They are looking to enlist 400 attorneys to help with the review process. The DOJ is working diligently, even through holidays, to review over 1 million pages to protect victims. The department is committed to releasing the "Epstein files" and is working tirelessly to go through the extensive amount of documents. The task is more challenging than initially anticipated, with the discovery of more pages than previously estimated.
  • DOJ seeks to enlist 400 attorneys to review 5M pages of Epstein docs: Sources
    abcnews.go.com
  • DOJ says lawyers working 'around the clock' to prep Epstein files for release after missed deadline
    www.foxnews.com
  • DOJ ‘working around the clock’ on Epstein files release, with millions of pages left to review
    nypost.com
  • Justice Dept. Now Said to Be Reviewing 5.2 Million Pages of Epstein Files
    www.nytimes.com
Lawmaker calls for investigation into alleged Ohio child care fraud. YouTuber accuses Minnesota daycare fraud. Trump criticizes Walz and Newsom. ICE accuses reporter of inciting violence. Minnesota faces fraud issues.
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Ohio lawmaker Rep. Josh Williams is calling for an investigation into suspected fraud in Minnesota's child care facilities following a taxpayer fraud scandal. President Donald Trump criticized California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, and Rep. Ilhan Omar in connection to the scandal. ICE accused Politico reporter Josh Gerstein of "inciting violence against federal agents" over a social media post about Minnesota's "stand-your-ground laws." Critics are questioning New Jersey's policy of requiring photo identification for transit discounts but not for voting, citing flawed Democratic state priorities.
  • Lawmaker wants alleged Ohio child care fraud investigated
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • What to know about Nick Shirley, the YouTuber alleging daycare fraud in Minnesota
    www.npr.org
  • Trump slams Walz and Newsom as 'Crooked Governors,' asserting their states are awash with fraud
    www.foxnews.com
  • Powerful House panel to investigate Minnesota fraud: ‘Cannot be swept aside’
    nypost.com
  • An Intense White House Response From a Single Viral Video
    www.nytimes.com
Zohran Mamdani to be inaugurated as NYC mayor using the Quran. Faces challenges on Day 1. Crowning moment with looming challenges.
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New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is set to have a private inauguration ceremony at midnight on Thursday, followed by a public ceremony in the early afternoon. Mamdani, a socialist and the city's first Muslim mayor, will use family Qurans and one belonging to writer Arturo Schomburg at his swearing-in ceremonies. He is expected to enact progressive policies in the city, but faces challenges in gaining approval from more moderate powers and funding his ambitious affordability agenda. Mamdani carries the hopes of the left, Muslims, and younger voters as he takes charge of City Hall from current Mayor Eric Adams.
  • Mamdani will be inaugurated as New York City mayor at midnight: What to know
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Mamdani Will Be First N.Y.C. Mayor to Use the Quran at His Swearing-In
    www.nytimes.com
  • Five Challenges Mamdani Faces on Day 1 as NYC Mayor
    www.wsj.com
  • Mamdani picks educator who worked to dismantle Gifted & Talented program as NYC schools chancellor
    www.foxnews.com
  • Zohran Mamdani taps Kamar Samuels as next NYC schools chancellor: sources
    nypost.com
New Yorkers hold public funeral for the MetroCard, taking a final ride on all transit lines.
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A funeral was held for the MetroCard with chants of "swipe, swipe" and an urn, attended by journalists and a YouTuber. They embarked on a daylong journey across New York City buses and trains before the card's sale ends on Dec. 31.
  • ‘Swipe, Swipe’: New Yorkers Give the MetroCard a Public Funeral
    www.nytimes.com
  • A Farewell Ride With the MetroCard, on Every Transit Line That Uses It
    www.nytimes.com
San Francisco mayor signs reparations bill offering $5M payments to black residents, but city lacks funds to pay.
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Mayor Daniel Lurie of San Francisco has been accused of proposing an illegal plan to distribute reparations to black residents. The mayor has signed an ordinance to establish a reparations fund that could provide eligible black residents with payments of up to $5 million each.
  • San Fran mayor signs bill that could give black residents $5M each — but admits city is too broke to pay
    nypost.com
  • San Francisco mayor quietly signs reparations fund that could lead to $5M payments per person
    www.foxnews.com
Appeals court supports Trump's budget cut to Planned Parenthood funds, overturning judge's decision on abortion defunding.
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An appeals court has approved the Trump administration's enforcement of a bill provision in 22 Democrat-led states that cuts off Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood clinics. This decision overturns a lower court ruling and allows the provision of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to continue, preventing Medicaid reimbursements to abortion providers. U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani has been overruled on this matter for the second time by a three-judge panel on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 1st Circuit.
  • Appeals court sides with Trump on budget provision cutting Planned Parenthood funds
    www.foxnews.com
  • Judge who struck One Big Beautiful Bill Act abortion defunding overruled by appeals court again
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
Patriots player Stefon Diggs faces felony strangulation charge and multiple criminal charges, denying allegations. Another Patriots star faces disturbing allegations.
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Christian Barmore was charged with assault and battery on a family member in a domestic violence case. Troubling allegations involving Stefon Diggs have also surfaced, with Diggs denying the accusations of felony strangulation and misdemeanor assault. The New England Patriots wide receiver is facing charges according to court records, with his lawyer stating that Diggs categorically denies the allegations.
  • Second Patriots star faces disturbing allegations day after Stefon Diggs denies strangulation charges
    www.foxnews.com
  • NFL player Stefon Diggs faces felony strangulation charge
    www.bbc.com
  • New England Patriots player Stefon Diggs faces strangulation charge
    abcnews.go.com
Fox Nation's 'Who Can Forget?' year-end special reflects on 10 defining media moments and controversies of 2025.
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Fox Nation's special program "Who Can Forget 2025?" looks back at the notable events of the year, such as Trump's return to power, America's first pope, and significant pop culture moments. The media landscape in 2025 reflects a year of political turmoil, cultural shifts, and changes in how Americans get their news. College students discuss the surprising election, a new pope, political unrest, and a high-profile criminal case that shaped the year.
  • Fox Nation rewinds defining moments of 2025 in 'Who Can Forget?' year-end special
    www.foxnews.com
  • 10 media moments and controversies that defined 2025
    www.foxnews.com
  • Opinion | The Moments that Defined 2025
    www.wsj.com
Russia accuses attack on Putin's residence, Ukraine denies. Putin promises victory in Ukraine. Netanyahu minimizes settler violence. Putin addresses war in New Year's message. Ukraine-Russia war update.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of launching drone attacks on his residence, which has disrupted President Zelensky's peace plan momentum as Russia threatens to take a tougher stance. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the media coverage of violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, downplaying the severity of the issue. President Putin's New Year's message was defiant, contrasting with President Trump's diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine-Russia war. President Trump engaged with Ukrainian and Russian leaders in 2025 in an unprecedented diplomatic push, including summits in Alaska and meetings at Mar-a-Lago.
  • Russia alleges attack on Putin residence as Ukraine denies claim ahead of Trump talks
    www.foxnews.com
  • Netanyahu downplays settler violence in West Bank despite Trump’s concerns
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • In New Year’s Message to War-Weary Russia, Putin Says Little About War
    www.nytimes.com
  • Zelenskyy suggests Trump fly to Ukraine to help 'end the war'
    abcnews.go.com
  • Netanyahu warns ‘all bets are off’ if Iran seeks escalation against Israel
    nypost.com
Trump issues first vetoes of second term, including bipartisan Colorado water act. Boebert criticizes Trump for vetoing water bill.
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Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert criticized President Donald Trump's veto of the bipartisan Arkansas Valley Conduit Act, which aimed to lower water payments for residents in Colorado. Boebert suggested that Trump's veto may have been politically motivated, possibly in retaliation for a vote on releasing the Jeffrey Epstein files. Trump vetoed the bill, known as the Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit Act, despite it being co-sponsored by Boebert and other Colorado representatives.
  • Trump issues 1st vetoes of 2nd term, including bipartisan Colorado water act
    abcnews.go.com
  • Trump vetoes first bills of his second term
    www.bbc.com
  • Lauren Boebert rips Trump for using first veto of second term on her bipartisan water bill: ‘This is not over’
    nypost.com
  • Boebert hits back at Trump after veto of Colorado water bill, raises retaliation concerns
    www.foxnews.com
  • Boebert suggests Trump vetoed Colorado water pipeline bill as ‘retaliation’ for Epstein discharge petition
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
Texas sheriff believes remains found are missing teen Camila Mendoza Olmos. Another teen girl disappears as search continues. New video surfaces.
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A Texas sheriff believes that remains found in a field belong to missing teen Camila Mendoza Olmos, who disappeared from her home near San Antonio on Christmas Eve. Authorities discovered a body and a firearm during the search for the 19-year-old, who vanished from Bexar County. The body was found approximately 100 yards from Olmos' home. Surveillance footage shows a woman in clothing similar to what Olmos was wearing when she disappeared walking on the side of a road.
  • Texas sheriff 'strongly' believes remains found belong to missing teen Camila Mendoza Olmos
    www.foxnews.com
  • Body located amid search for missing Texas teen: Sheriff
    abcnews.go.com
  • New video appears to show Texas teen missing since Christmas Eve, police say
    www.bbc.com
Cowboys released All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs after Christmas Day dispute and injury-plagued seasons.
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The Dallas Cowboys waived All-Pro cornerback Trevon Diggs following a dispute over his Christmas Day plans and injury-plagued seasons post his $97 million contract extension.
  • Trevon Diggs had Christmas Day dispute with Cowboys days before release: reports
    www.foxnews.com
  • Cowboys release All-Pro cornerback following multiple injury-plagued seasons: reports
    www.foxnews.com
DOJ prioritizes prosecution of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, with officials pushing for charges, according to court documents and emails.
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The Justice Department has spent significant resources pursuing the prosecution and expulsion of Salvadoran migrant Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Acting US Attorney Rob McGuire denies allegations of vindictiveness and claims he made the decision to pursue charges independently. A federal judge has ordered the DOJ to provide internal records related to the case, suggesting doubts about the DOJ's involvement. Newly unsealed documents show a DOJ official considered Abrego Garcia's prosecution a top priority after he was mistakenly deported, raising concerns about potential misinformation provided to the court.
  • A Timeline of Key Events in the Trump Administration’s Pursuit of Abrego Garcia
    www.nytimes.com
  • Kilmar Abrego Garcia prosecution described by DOJ as ‘top priority,’ court documents show 
    nypost.com
  • Judge suggests DOJ leadership pushed for Kilmar Abrego Garcia prosecution
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Documents suggest DOJ officials may have pushed Abrego Garcia prosecution: Judge
    abcnews.go.com
  • DOJ’s second-in-command could be central to ‘vindictive’ prosecution of Abrego Garcia, judge rules
    www.foxnews.com
US stock market ends 2025 positively. European markets expected to open lower. Asia-Pacific markets trade flat or lower as year ends.
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The S&P 500 is poised to end 2025 with a 17% increase, marking the third consecutive year of double-digit gains. European stocks are expected to open lower on the last trading day of the year, while Asia-Pacific markets are set for modest gains on the final trading day of the year. Investors are keeping an eye on China's military exercises near Taiwan following recent announcements of new drills.
  • US stock market ends 2025 on a high note after volatile year
    www.bbc.com
  • European markets head for lower open on last trading day of 2025
    www.cnbc.com
Brown University implements security overhaul after mass shooting kills 2, injures 9.
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Police records obtained recently shed light on the chaotic emergency response to a shooting at Brown University on December 13, which resulted in the deaths of two students and multiple injuries. In response to the tragedy, Brown University has announced new safety measures, including the installation of security cameras in the engineering building where the shooting took place.
  • Dispatch records from Brown University shooting capture chaos of deadly campus attack
    www.foxnews.com
  • Brown University implements campus-wide security overhaul after mass shooting leaves 2 dead, 9 wounded
    www.foxnews.com
Artists cancel Kennedy Center shows due to Trump renaming, prompting a new round of cancellations for New Year's Eve concerts.
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Performers are canceling shows at the Trump Kennedy Center due to the venue's new name honoring President Donald Trump. The Kennedy Center is seeing a wave of cancellations from artists who were scheduled to perform, with a jazz group being the latest to pull out of their New Year's Eve shows. The Cookers, an acclaimed jazz ensemble, canceled two shows in protest of the renaming of the prestigious cultural arts hub.
  • DAVID MARCUS: Five ways to make the Trump-Kennedy Center great in 2026
    www.foxnews.com
  • Kennedy Center renaming prompts a new round of cancellations
    www.npr.org
  • More artists cancel Kennedy Center shows after Trump name change
    www.bbc.com
  • Kennedy Center New Year’s Eve concerts and more shows canceled over ‘Trump renaming the Center after himself’
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • More Kennedy Center Performances Are Canceled After Trump’s Renaming
    www.nytimes.com
Virginia man detained without bond for threatening to kill Richard Grenell, US judge orders.
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A Virginia man, Scott Allen Bolger, has been taken into custody by the U.S. Marshall Service for allegedly threatening to kill Richard Grenell, the interim executive director of the Kennedy Center. Bolger is facing charges for sending threats across state lines and making false statements. Grenell confirmed that he was the target of the threats, and it was revealed that the suspect had been harassing him for months and providing false information about his identity.
  • Virginia man ordered held without bond over death threat against Richard Grenell
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • US judge orders suspect detained for threatening to kill Richard Grenell
    www.foxnews.com
Bari Weiss invites George Clooney to newsroom after criticism. Petition for editorial independence unlikely to affect Paramount CEO David Ellison.
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CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss invited actor George Clooney to the network's newsroom after he criticized her in an interview with Variety. Former CBS journalists are planning a petition to urge Paramount CEO to ensure editorial independence amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding Bari Weiss on "60 Minutes."
  • Bari Weiss invites George Clooney to newsroom after he said she's 'dismantling CBS News as we speak'
    www.foxnews.com
  • ‘Editorial independence’ petition unlikely to faze Paramount CEO David Ellison amid Bari Weiss saga: ex-journo
    www.foxnews.com
A report found that fewer box office hits in 2025 were directed by women.
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The percentage of female filmmakers has decreased from 13.4 percent in 2024 to 8.1 percent this year, as reported by a study from the University of Southern California.
  • Women Directed Fewer Box Office Hits in 2025, Report Finds
    www.nytimes.com
  • Women Directed Fewer Box Office Hits in 2025, Report Finds
    www.nytimes.com
New state laws in 2026 cover wage, SNAP benefits, climate tax, plastic bag bans in California, and firing squads in Idaho.
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In 2026, residents in nine states will experience lower income-tax rates. New state laws will bring changes including higher minimum wages, tourism taxes, and tighter SNAP restrictions. A variety of new laws will cover topics such as wages, workplace protections, gender-neutral bathrooms, firing squads, and taxes. Forty-three states will see significant tax changes, with eight states lowering individual income tax rates. Additionally, new rules have been passed on cellphone usage for minors, medically assisted death, and gender-related care.
  • Opinion | Happy Tax Cut New Year
    www.wsj.com
  • What to know about new state laws in 2026 on wages, SNAP benefits and climate tax
    www.foxnews.com
  • New 2026 laws include stricter ban on plastic bags in California and firing squads in Idaho
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • From A.I. to Immigration, These New State Laws Will Take Effect in 2026
    www.nytimes.com
Trump aims to revoke citizenship of Somalis for fraud in Minnesota. GOP calls for citizenship revocations linked to fraud. Dem Senate candidate criticized for hijab video.
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President Donald Trump is seeking to denaturalize members of Minnesota's Somali community who have been involved in billion-dollar fraud schemes. The scandal has led to federal indictments and is being used by the Trump administration for political gain. Republicans are supporting the denaturalization of any immigrant-turned U.S. citizen found guilty of stealing tax dollars and fraudulently obtaining welfare funds. Somali immigrants are accused of running a billion-dollar fraud ring that diverted money intended for the U.S. government. House Republican Tom Emmer is calling for the deportation of Somalis linked to the fraud, while Minnesota GOP candidate David Hann is demanding an apology over a hijab video amid the scandal.
  • Trump ‘absolutely’ wants to revoke citizenship of Somalis who committed fraud in Minnesota: Leavitt
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Fox News Politics Newsletter: House GOP whip calls for revoking citizenship over Minnesota fraud
    www.foxnews.com
  • Ilhan Omar faces investigation after outrage over massive wealth gains and aid fraud in Minnesota
    nypost.com
Mali and Burkina Faso ban US citizens in response to Trump's travel restrictions. Diplomatic retaliation follows US administration's move.
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Mali and Burkina Faso have implemented a reciprocal travel ban on visitors from the United States in retaliation to President Trump's travel restrictions on their nationals. This move comes after Trump imposed full travel restrictions on the two African countries in December. The ban on American citizens is part of a broader diplomatic response to the expansion of the Trump administration's travel restrictions list.
  • Mali and Burkina Faso ban US nationals in retaliation for Trump travel restrictions
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Two African nations ban American citizens in diplomatic tit-for-tat following Trump admin move
    www.foxnews.com
Former GOP Sen. Jon Kyl reveals dementia diagnosis, withdraws from public life.
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Former Republican Arizona Sen. Jon Kyl, 83, has announced that he is withdrawing from public life after being diagnosed with dementia. Kyl served for almost three decades in Congress, completing four full terms in the U.S. House from 1987 to 1995 and three full terms in the U.S. Senate from 1995 to 2013. He briefly returned to the Senate before his recent announcement.
  • Longtime GOP Sen. Jon Kyl announces dementia diagnosis
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Former GOP Sen. Jon Kyl announces dementia diagnosis, steps away from public life
    www.foxnews.com
  • Jon Kyl, Former Arizona Senator, Says He Has Dementia
    www.nytimes.com
Flu cases are surging this season, with rates expected to worsen, according to new CDC data. Protests in Iran over the economy.
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Flu is rapidly spreading across the U.S. this season, with new CDC data showing it is worse than previous years and expected to get even worse. In Iran, protests have erupted over the troubled economy.
  • Why flu cases are surging this season. And, protests erupt in Iran over the economy
    www.npr.org
  • Flu cases are surging and rates will likely get worse, new CDC data shows
    www.npr.org
Democrats won big in 2025, but must address critical weaknesses. Joe Concha urges a new plan for 2026. Nate Silver surprised by Democrats' failure to acknowledge mistakes in 2024.
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In the 2025 elections, Democrats achieved significant victories despite facing brand challenges. The DNC chair is optimistic about the party's future as they gear up for crucial midterms. However, Washington Examiner writer Joe Concha warned that the party could face losses in 2026 if recent reports reflect the party's current status. Pollster Nate Silver expressed surprise at some Democrats' unwillingness to acknowledge mistakes from the 2024 election in an interview with Semafor. Silver also criticized a portion of the Democratic Party for not admitting to any errors made during the previous election.
  • Democrats had major election victories in 2025, but wins don’t erase party’s critical weaknesses
    www.foxnews.com
  • Democrats ‘need a plan’ different from 2024 to win 2026: Joe Concha
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Pollster Nate Silver shocked by Democratic unwillingness to 'admit they f----- up' in 2024
    www.foxnews.com
New deep-sea search for missing Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 begins over a decade after the plane disappeared.
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A new deep-sea search for Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 has started in the Indian Ocean, reigniting the quest to solve the mystery of the plane's disappearance over a decade ago. The flight vanished mid-flight in March 2014 while en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing, with 239 passengers and crew on board.
  • Latest deep-sea search for missing Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 gets underway
    abcnews.go.com
  • Renewed effort to locate missing Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 begins over a decade after plane vanished
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
Runaway wallaby in New Jersey caught at Walmart after drone search. Wallabies can run up to 35 mph.
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A wallaby named Rex went missing from a petting zoo and animal sanctuary in Williamstown, New Jersey, but was later found in a Walmart parking lot after escaping from a nearby farm. Rex is known for his ability to leap 10 feet and reach speeds of up to 35 mph, according to his owner.
  • WATCH: Wandering wallaby's escape ends at Walmart
    abcnews.go.com
  • Drone search launched for runaway wallaby in New Jersey that can reach 35 mph: ‘They get hoppin’
    www.foxnews.com
Blizzard hits New York, California prepares for storm. Bomb cyclone brings heavy snow to US.
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A powerful storm system has caused blizzard conditions in the Midwest and Upstate New York, leading to travel disruptions. Southern California is preparing for more rain after experiencing heavy downpours in the West.
  • WATCH: Blizzard conditions paralyze parts of New York as California braces for new storm
    abcnews.go.com
  • Watch: Bomb cyclone hits parts of the US with heavy snow
    www.bbc.com
Emergency crews mobilized in California as a storm approaches. Cold weather expected across the U.S. for New Year's Eve. Rain forecasted for Southern California.
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The National Weather Service predicts heavy rain starting Wednesday morning, with the heaviest downpours expected Wednesday night through Thursday afternoon. Frigid temperatures are expected this week. Rough weather is forecast on both coasts for New Year's Eve. Residents should prepare for a rainy New Year's Eve and Day, with the potential for flooding and mudslides due to two rounds of rainfall starting on New Year's Eve following Christmas-week storms.
  • Newsom mobilizes emergency crews as storm bears down on California
    www.latimes.com
  • New Year’s Eve Forecast Is Very Cold Across the U.S.
    www.nytimes.com
  • New Year's Eve weather forecast: What to expect
    abcnews.go.com
Summary: Top Los Angeles Times stories and overlooked global reads from 2025, including chess and medical mysteries.
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The L.A. Times reflects on the major news events of 2025, including catastrophic fires, ICE raids, protests, and the tragic death of Rob Reiner. The publication highlights some of their best stories from the year that they believe deserved more attention, particularly in the areas of global health and development. Staff members share their favorite overlooked posts from 2025.
  • The most-read Los Angeles Times stories of 2025
    www.latimes.com
  • Overlooked Stories
    www.nytimes.com
  • From chess to a medical mystery: Great global reads from 2025 you may have missed
    www.npr.org
ISIS takes advantage of Syria's instability as US strikes reveal a growing threat. 24 ISIS members killed or captured in Syria. US vows to continue military actions.
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The Islamic State group continues to adapt and persist in Syria despite claims of defeat, leading to a major U.S. military response. Operation Hawkeye Strike on Dec. 19 targeted over 70 ISIS targets, resulting in the killing or capturing of about two dozen terrorists. The U.S. Central Command announced that at least seven ISIS members have been killed and the rest captured by U.S. and partner forces in Syria since the operation.
  • ISIS exploiting Syria’s chaos as US strikes expose growing threat
    www.foxnews.com
  • Two dozen ISIS terrorists killed or captured after large-scale Syria attack: CENTCOM
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • U.S. announces more military actions against ISIS: 'We will not relent'
    www.foxnews.com
Five shocking criminal cases in 2025 captivated America with high-profile trials and manhunts, including the murders of Charlie Kirk and Karen Read.
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In 2025, a variety of criminal trials captured national attention, showcasing that reality can be stranger than fiction in courtrooms. Some of the most gripping crime stories included an assassination, an ISIS-inspired attack in New Orleans, and murder trials shedding light on societal fractures. Throughout the year, police conducted extensive searches for escaped killers who had terrorized local communities in Louisiana and Washington. The year's most captivating cases involved assassination plots, brutal murders, and shocking twists that dominated news headlines across the country.
  • Five jaw-dropping criminal cases that proved 2025 was stranger than fiction
    www.foxnews.com
CIA reportedly targeted Venezuelan dock linked to drug smuggling, while US sanctions Iranian and Venezuelan groups involved in weapons trade.
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- The U.S. military conducted a strike on a Venezuelan dock used by drug smugglers, according to President Trump. - Protests over the economy are increasing in Iran. - Flu cases in the U.S. are rising, based on CDC data. - The CIA was behind a drone strike on a docking area believed to be used by Venezuelan drug cartels. - The drone attack was on a dock where drugs were being prepared for loading on boats, escalating the Trump administration's campaign against Nicolás Maduro. - The sanctions on Venezuela come after President Trump threatened Iran over rearming efforts. - The CIA struck a remote dock in Venezuela last week, following President Trump's hints of such strikes.
  • Morning news brief
    www.npr.org
  • The C.I.A. Strike on Venezuela: What to Know
    www.nytimes.com
  • U.S. sanctions Iranian, Venezuelan groups tied to weapons trade
    www.cnbc.com
  • CIA struck Venezuelan dock allegedly used for drug smuggling: reports
    nypost.com
  • US military kills 2 narco-terrorists in Eastern Pacific strike operation targeting vessel
    www.foxnews.com
Isiah Whitlock Jr., known for roles in 'The Wire' and 'Veep', dies at 71. He had a successful acting career.
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Beloved actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., known for his iconic catchphrase and roles in "The Wire" and Spike Lee films, has passed away at the age of 71 after a brief illness. Whitlock was recognized for his memorable profane catchphrase and his portrayal of a corrupt state senator.
  • Isiah Whitlock Jr., Scene-Stealing Character Actor in ‘The Wire,’ Dies at 71
    www.nytimes.com
  • Isiah Whitlock Jr dies at 71 after decades-long career spanning 'The Wire', 'Veep' and Spike Lee films
    www.foxnews.com
  • Isiah Whitlock Jr: The Wire and Veep actor dies at 71
    www.bbc.com
  • Isiah Whitlock Jr., 'The Wire' actor and Spike Lee collaborator, dies at 71
    www.latimes.com
Democrat Renee Hardman's win in Iowa Senate special election prevents GOP from reclaiming supermajority. Republicans aim for supermajority.
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Democrat Renee Hardman won the Iowa state Senate special election, preventing Republicans from regaining two-thirds control of the chamber. Hardman defeated Republican candidate Lucas Loftin by a significant margin, ensuring that Democrats maintain a left-leaning seat in suburban Des Moines and preventing Republicans from achieving a supermajority in the State Senate. This election was crucial in maintaining a balance of power in Iowa's Senate.
  • Democrat Renee Hardman wins Iowa state Senate seat, blocking GOP from reclaiming a supermajority
    nypost.com
  • Democrat Renee Hardman wins Iowa Senate special election, denying GOP supermajority
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Iowa Democrat Wins State Senate Seat, Fending Off G.O.P. Supermajority
    www.nytimes.com
  • Republicans eye Iowa Senate supermajority in Tuesday special election
    www.foxnews.com
Former Colorado Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell dies at 92.
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Former Colorado senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, the first Native American to serve in both the House and Senate, passed away at the age of 92. Campbell, known for his advocacy of Native American issues, was a Democrat turned Republican and the only Native American during his time in Congress. He was also an Olympian and judo expert.
  • Former Colorado Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell dead at 92
    www.foxnews.com
  • Ben Nighthorse Campbell, former US Senator from Colorado, dead at 92
    nypost.com
  • Ben Nighthorse Campbell, Former Colorado Senator, Dies at 92
    www.nytimes.com
Ohio officers save man from burning car in daring rescue; Good Samaritan rescues couple from crash.
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In Ohio, officers rescued a man trapped in a burning car while a group of good Samaritans, including an Air Force staff sergeant, saved a couple whose vehicle had spun off the road and was hanging on the edge of a steep embankment.
  • WATCH: Ohio officers save man from burning car in daring rescue
    abcnews.go.com
  • WATCH: Good Samaritan speaks out after rescuing couple from crash
    abcnews.go.com
A bear remains under a California home despite multiple failed removal attempts, causing concern for residents.
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A 550-pound black bear has been living under a home in Altadena, California, despite ongoing efforts to remove it. A bear trap set up at the property accidentally caught the wrong animal. The homeowner describes the situation as terrifying.
  • Bear remains under California home after weeks of failed removal attempts
    www.foxnews.com
  • WATCH: 'It sounds like a dragon': Bear living under house won't leave
    abcnews.go.com
Gwyneth Paltrow's daughter Apple Martin and Chappell Roan retract Brigitte Bardot tribute due to late actress' controversial views.
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Gwyneth Paltrow's daughter Apple Martin and singer Chappell Roan both posted tributes to Brigitte Bardot without being aware of the late French actress' controversial views. Apple Martin claimed she was "completely unaware" of Bardot's views, while Chappell Roan retracted her tribute after fans exposed Bardot's past.
  • Gwyneth Paltrow's daughter Apple Martin joins Chappell Roan backtracking on Brigitte Bardot tribute
    www.foxnews.com
  • Chappell Roan retracts Brigitte Bardot tribute after discovering late actress' 'very disappointing' views
    www.foxnews.com

â–¼ Tuesday, December 30

Texas men face charges for supporting ISIS. One ordered held pending trial, another charged with providing material support.
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John Michael Garza Jr., a 21-year-old man from Midlothian, Texas, has been charged with attempting to provide material support to ISIS. He was charged after allegedly paying cryptocurrency to an undercover agent. This is another case of an alleged ISIS sympathizer being charged with an international terrorism offense in Texas, specifically in the Dallas area.
  • Texas man accused of trying to support ISIS ordered held pending trial
    abcnews.go.com
  • Another ISIS sympathizer charged in Texas
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Texas man charged with attempting to provide material support to ISIS in federal terrorism case
    www.foxnews.com
China conducts large military drills near Taiwan, including live-fire exercises. Bipartisan House panel criticizes Beijing's actions. Taiwan condemns drills. China criticizes US arms sale to Taiwan.
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China has launched its biggest military encirclement of Taiwan in 8 months with live-fire drills, rockets, and warships in a massive 'Justice Mission 2025' exercise. The two-day military exercises around Taiwan included rockets, bombers, and assault ships, prompting Taiwan's president to criticize China for deliberately undermining regional stability through military intimidation. China stated that it was responding to Taiwanese forces and defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The People's Liberation Army continued large-scale military drills around Taiwan, unleashing live-fire exercises as part of 'Justice Mission 2025.' Additionally, China's top diplomat criticized a record U.S. military sale to Taiwan.
  • China launches largest military drills off Taiwan in 8 months with live-fire exercises caught on camera
    www.foxnews.com
  • Taiwan condemns Chinese military drills as Beijing fires missiles on second day of ‘intimidation’ exercise
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • China flexes blockade capabilities near Taiwan on second day of military drills
    www.npr.org
  • China's top diplomat blasts US arms sale to Taiwan as military drills unfold
    abcnews.go.com
  • With Live Artillery and New Warships, China Practices Blockading Taiwan
    www.nytimes.com
Three hikers found dead on Mt. Baldy in Southern California during a search and rescue effort, recovery delayed due to harsh weather.
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Access to part of Mt. Baldy in Southern California has been closed by authorities due to dangerous terrain and weather conditions. Three hikers have died on the mountain, and recovery efforts are currently underway, although strong winds have hindered helicopter operations.
  • 3 Hikers Are Found Dead on Mt. Baldy in Southern California, Sheriff Says
    www.nytimes.com
  • 3 hikers found dead during search and rescue effort in California, authorities say
    abcnews.go.com
  • Three hikers found dead on Mt. Baldy. Harsh weather blocks recovery of bodies
    www.latimes.com
UK government faces backlash for repatriating extremist from Egypt. PM Starmer under scrutiny as extremist's tweets spark counter-terror investigation.
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The British government is facing a scandal after championing the cause of an Egyptian activist, only for his troubling social media history to emerge after his release. Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented on the situation, and U.K. counterterrorism police are assessing the activist's controversial social media posts following his return to Britain, which has sparked political backlash.
  • UK government squirms after repatriating antisemitic, anti-white activist from Egypt
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • UK PM Starmer–praised Egyptian extremist faces counter-terror probe over resurfaced tweets
    www.foxnews.com
FBI seizes $40m worth of motorcycles from Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding, releasing images of the seized vehicles.
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Ryan Wedding, a 44-year-old Canadian national and former Olympic snowboarder, is allegedly one of the largest drug traffickers in the world. He is on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, and authorities have seized art and cars from him.
  • Motorcycles worth $40m seized from FBI most-wanted Olympic snowboarder
    www.bbc.com
  • FBI releases images of seized motorcycles believed to belong to Ryan Wedding
    abcnews.go.com
Israel plans to block aid groups, such as Doctors Without Borders, from Gaza, citing new regulations.
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Doctors Without Borders and other organizations have refused to give Israel detailed information about their workers. Israel has accused Doctors Without Borders of not clarifying the roles of some staff members who are allegedly cooperating with militants.
  • Gaza Aid Groups Face Suspensions Under New Israeli Rules
    www.nytimes.com
  • Israel says it will bar aid groups, including Doctors Without Borders, from Gaza
    www.npr.org
Disney will pay $10 million to settle allegations of violating children's privacy laws.
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Disney has agreed to pay $10 million in civil penalties to settle a federal case regarding its alleged violations of a children's online privacy law on YouTube. The Department of Justice announced the settlement, which involves Disney Worldwide Services and Disney Entertainment Operations. Regulators accused Disney of not properly labeling kids' videos on YouTube, which allowed for data collection and targeted advertising without parental notice and consent.
  • Disney agrees to pay $10 million for allegedly violating children’s privacy
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Disney to pay $10m over alleged children's privacy law violations
    www.bbc.com
  • Disney to Pay $10 Million to Settle Children’s Privacy Case
    www.wsj.com
Democrats are divided on the return of the Jan. 6 committee, planning to reconvene on the riot's fifth anniversary to highlight Republican actions.
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House Democrats plan to reconvene their Jan. 6 investigation on the fifth anniversary of the Capitol riot. The hearing, announced by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, will focus on President Trump's pardoning of rioters and GOP efforts to downplay the event. The unofficial hearing comes as Democrats are divided on whether it will be productive in a midterm election year.
  • Democrats split on merits of Jan. 6 committee’s return to spotlight
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Democrats Aim to Spotlight Republican Efforts to Rewrite the Jan. 6 Capitol Riot
    www.nytimes.com
  • Dems to convene special hearing on five-year anniversary of Jan. 6 Capitol riot
    nypost.com
Judge may release Jan. 6 pipe bomb suspect Brian Cole Jr. to home detention due to autism and OCD, lawyers argue.
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A federal judge is expected to make a decision soon on whether Brian Cole Jr., the Virginia man accused of planting pipe bombs outside the Democratic and Republican National Committee headquarters, should be released to home detention while awaiting trial. Cole's attorneys revealed that he is on the autism spectrum and has obsessive-compulsive disorder in a motion opposing the government's request to detain him before trial.
  • Judge considers releasing Jan. 6 pipe bomb defendant into home detention
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • DC pipe bomb suspect Brian Cole Jr. is autistic and has OCD, lawyers reveal in bid against pre-trial detention
    nypost.com
DOJ challenges Virginia law granting in-state tuition to illegal immigrants, suing the state over tuition assistance for unauthorized immigrants.
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The Justice Department has filed a lawsuit against Virginia, alleging that the state's policy of providing in-state tuition and financial aid to illegal immigrants at public colleges discriminates against U.S. citizens and violates federal immigration law. The lawsuit was filed in federal district court in Richmond and challenges a provision of Virginia's law that allows unauthorized immigrants to receive in-state benefits.
  • DOJ challenges Virginia law granting in-state tuition to illegal immigrants
    www.foxnews.com
  • Justice Department sues Virginia over tuition assistance for illegal immigrants
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Justice Department Sues Virginia Over Tuition Aid for Unauthorized Immigrants
    www.nytimes.com
Judge orders Trump administration to continue funding Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) despite administration's desire to shut it down.
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A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to continue funding the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) after the administration attempted to shut it down and conduct mass firings. The administration argued it was legally barred from funding the agency, but the courts intervened. The CFPB serves as a watchdog agency for the financial system and has been at the center of a legal battle over its fate.
  • Judge rules Trump administration must fund watchdog agency it hopes to shut down
    www.washingtonexaminer.com
  • Judge orders Trump administration to continue to seek funding for the CFPB
    www.npr.org
  • Judge Rules That Trump Administration Must Continue to Fund CFPB
    www.nytimes.com
NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin's father dies, mother injured in house fire at North Carolina home. NASCAR community mourns.
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NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin's father, Dennis, tragically passed away at the age of 75 in a North Carolina house fire. The fire at Hamlin's parents' home resulted in his father's death and his mother being injured. The incident occurred at a North Carolina home associated with the NASCAR star.
  • NASCAR mourns Denny Hamlin’s father, says he ‘sacrificed greatly’ for son’s career
    www.foxnews.com
  • NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin's father killed, mother injured in house fire
    abcnews.go.com
  • Deadly fire occurs at North Carolina home linked to NASCAR star Denny Hamlin
    www.foxnews.com