The Small Business Administration (SBA) suspended 6,900 Minnesota borrowers due to suspected fraud involving a $400 million scheme related to Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and disaster loans during the COVID-19 pandemic response. New York senators are now urging for an independent audit of state programs to safeguard taxpayers.
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New York Republicans call for independent fraud investigation following Minnesota revelations
www.foxnews.com
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SBA suspends nearly 7,000 Minnesota borrowers over suspected $400M pandemic loan fraud
www.foxnews.com
A New Year's Eve nightclub fire in the Swiss resort of Crans-Montana has resulted in the death of 40 people and injuries to 119 others. Witnesses reported that a bartender carrying a lit sparkler near a wooden ceiling may have caused the flames to erupt. Fireworks attached to Champagne bottles likely ignited insulation in the bar. The badly burned victims, including teenagers, have been sent to hospitals across Europe for treatment. Officials suspect the blaze was caused by sparklers and are investigating potential criminal liability.
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Swiss nightclub promoted flaming bottle stunts before deadly inferno in packed New Year's Eve venue
www.foxnews.com
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Swiss Bar Fire Likely Caused By Sparklers, Authorities Say
www.nytimes.com
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After Swiss New Year’s Fire, Parents Race to Find Survivors and Identify the Dead
www.wsj.com
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Sparkling candles may have led to deadly Swiss resort bar fire, investigators say
abcnews.go.com
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A fire in an Swiss ski resort bar has left about 40 people dead
www.npr.org
The text suggests that the large size of the welfare state leads to corruption. It specifically mentions issues of abuse and mismanagement within New York City's social-service system.
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Opinion | Minnesota’s Fraud Problem Isn’t Immigrants
www.wsj.com
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Opinion | Minnesota Isn’t the Only Magnet for Welfare Malfeasance
www.wsj.com
Rep. Eric Swalwell, a candidate for California governor, has pledged to revoke driving licenses of masked ICE agents if elected, leading to a potential clash between federal and state immigration authorities. A federal lawsuit has temporarily halted California's enforcement of a mask ban against ICE officers, with a Department of Justice official challenging claims that the ban was in effect from January 1.
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Swalwell threatens to revoke driver's licenses of masked ICE agents operating in California
www.foxnews.com
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DOJ official fact-checks California Democrat after he falsely claims ICE mask ban is in effect
www.foxnews.com
A storm is expected to bring rain and snow to Los Angeles this weekend, with gusty winds and possible flooding in burn scar areas. The San Francisco Bay Area is currently experiencing flooding due to the latest storm. Southern California has received more than four times its usual rainfall in recent months, leading to concerns about flooding. New Year's Day in 2026 was marked by heavy rain and flash flooding in California, with more rain on the way.
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Southern California winter rains break records, with another storm on the way
www.latimes.com
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California Cannot Catch a Break as Another Storm Moves In
www.nytimes.com
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More rain headed to drenched California as lake effect snow hits the East
abcnews.go.com
The Saudi-backed government in Yemen plans to send forces to reclaim territory from a group supported by the United Arab Emirates, escalating tensions between the two Gulf powerhouses.
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Yemen's separatists announce a constitution for an independent south
www.npr.org
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Yemen Sends Military to Push Out Separatist Faction
www.nytimes.com
The FBI stopped an alleged New Year's Eve terrorist attack in North Carolina, where an 18-year-old named Christian Sturdivant was planning to commit a violent act in support of ISIS. Sturdivant was radicalized online and had targeted a grocery store in a Charlotte suburb for the attack. Authorities apprehended him on New Year's Eve, preventing the plot from being carried out.
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FBI foils North Carolina New Year’s Eve attack plot inspired by ISIS
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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What we know about the ISIS-inspired New Year’s Eve terror suspect
www.foxnews.com
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North Carolina Man Accused of Planning Potential Terrorist Attack
www.nytimes.com
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Burger King Worker Charged With New Year’s Eve Terror Plot
www.wsj.com
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FBI says it thwarted potential New Year's terror attack 'directly inspired' by ISIS
abcnews.go.com
The developers of Revolution Wind and Empire Wind are suing the Trump administration. Orsted, the world's largest offshore wind farm developer, saw its shares rise over 4% in response to this news.
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Offshore Wind Projects Challenge Trump Administration’s Order to Stop Work
www.nytimes.com
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Orsted files legal challenge over Trump's halt to $5 billion offshore wind project
www.cnbc.com
California Governor Gavin Newsom is set to visit Los Angeles on the anniversary of the Southern California wildfires that claimed 31 lives and destroyed thousands of homes. He plans to meet with survivors who are still facing challenges in rebuilding their lives. Additionally, Newsom will deliver his annual State of the State address on January 8, with lawmakers eager to hear his plans for the future.
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Gavin Newsom’s Palisades Fire visit is a political minefield — he better watch his step
nypost.com
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Newsom to visit fire-ravaged areas of Los Angeles on anniversary of deadly blaze
nypost.com
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Senators discuss what should be in Newsom’s Capitol speech
www.washingtonexaminer.com
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is actively indicating that his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, could be his successor, which would be unprecedented in the country's history. Ju Ae recently appeared alongside her parents at a New Year's ceremony, sparking speculation about North Korea's succession plans. Analysts are discussing the possibility of her taking on a leadership role in the future.
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Kim Jong Un’s daughter takes center stage at dynastic ceremony
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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Kim Jong Un appears with daughter at mausoleum, fueling succession speculation
www.foxnews.com
An off-duty ICE agent in Los Angeles confronted an armed neighbor who was firing rifle shots into the air at an apartment complex on New Year's Eve. The ICE officer fatally shot the gunman just before midnight.
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Off-duty ICE agent takes down armed man firing rifle at LA apartment complex
www.foxnews.com
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Gunman dies after being shot by off-duty ICE agent; LAPD investigating
www.latimes.com
The U.S. Coast Guard is conducting a search for survivors after taking action against suspected drug vessels in the Eastern Pacific. Three alleged narco-terrorists were killed, and others are missing. The search is being carried out in challenging conditions with nine-foot seas and strong winds. Additionally, the Coast Guard has suspended its search for a 77-year-old woman who went overboard from a Holland America cruise ship near Cuba on New Year's Day after an 8-hour effort.
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Coast Guard searches for survivors after US strikes suspected narco-terrorist vessels in Eastern Pacific
www.foxnews.com
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Hopes Fade as Coast Guard Seeks Survivors of Latest Boat Strikes
www.nytimes.com
The driver responsible for the crash that injured Anthony Joshua and resulted in the death of two of his friends has been charged with dangerous and reckless driving in Nigeria.
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Driver charged after crash that injured boxer Anthony Joshua, killed two friends
www.foxnews.com
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Anthony Joshua’s driver charged after deadly crash in Nigeria
abcnews.go.com
Iran's parliament speaker has declared U.S. military bases as 'legitimate targets' after President Trump vowed action in response to protest crackdowns in Iran. Tensions have escalated between the two countries, with Trump warning of U.S. intervention if Iran suppresses ongoing protests. Iranian officials have accused the U.S. and Israel of fueling the economic protests in Iran. The situation remains tense as both sides exchange threats amid growing unrest in Iran over economic conditions, water crisis, and sanctions.
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Protests spread across Iran as regime threatens US forces as 'legitimate targets' after Trump warning
www.foxnews.com
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Iran threatens American troops as ‘legitimate targets’ after Trump claims US is ‘locked and loaded’ to protect peaceful protesters
nypost.com
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Trump and Iran start 2026 exchanging new threats on social media
www.npr.org
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Iranian officials threaten US troops after Trump promises intervention on behalf of protesters
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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Trump warns US will intervene if Iran kills protesters
www.bbc.com
Colorado officials are investigating a suspected deadly mountain lion attack on a woman, which would be the state's first such incident in over 25 years if confirmed.
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WATCH: Woman dies in suspected mountain lion attack in Colorado
abcnews.go.com
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Woman killed in suspected mountain lion attack in US
www.bbc.com
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Woman suspected to have been killed in Colorado's first fatal mountain lion attack in over two decades
www.foxnews.com
Ole Miss star criticizes Lane Kiffin for trying to overshadow team's victory, calling him a "troll." Kiffin could earn up to $1 million in bonuses as Ole Miss progresses in the College Football Playoff.
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Ole Miss star accuses Lane Kiffin of trying to 'steal our shine' amid College Football Playoff run: 'A troll'
www.foxnews.com
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Lane Kiffin cashes in as former Ole Miss team advances in College Football Playoff without him
www.foxnews.com
The 2026 midterm elections are intensifying as Democrats focus on kitchen table issues while Republicans defend Senate control. Redistricting battles are heating up as both parties fight over congressional maps in key states. Senate Republicans are working to maintain their majority, with key races in Georgia, North Carolina, and Michigan being crucial. Democrats have seen recent victories, including a win in a closely watched Iowa special election, indicating potential success in the midterms. Despite challenges, Democrats are optimistic for the upcoming elections as they prepare for crucial contests.
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Healthcare, economy and the 'One Big Beautiful Bill': Welcome to the midterms
www.foxnews.com
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Off-year Democratic gains send mixed signals ahead of 2026Â
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Venus Williams, aged 45, has made history by receiving a wild-card spot for the Australian Open, becoming the oldest woman to enter the main draw at Melbourne Park. This will be her first appearance at the tournament in five years.
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Venus Williams set to become oldest woman in Australian Open main draw with wild-card entry
www.foxnews.com
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Venus Williams, 45, gets Australian Open wildcard
www.bbc.com
Alabama receiver Germie Bernard credited Jesus Christ after the Crimson Tide's significant 38-3 loss to Indiana in the College Football Playoff Rose Bowl. This defeat marked the most one-sided postseason loss in Alabama's history, with Indiana dominating the game. Backup Austin Mack took over for Ty Simpson during the game.
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Alabama star receiver gives 'glory to Jesus Christ' after team's crushing CFP loss to Indiana
www.foxnews.com
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Indiana hands Alabama worst postseason loss in program history in Rose Bowl beatdown
www.foxnews.com
Brian Cole Jr., accused of planting pipe bombs outside the RNC and DNC headquarters, will be held in federal custody pending trial. The decision was made by U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew J. Sharbaugh, who expressed concern over Cole's continued purchase of bomb-making components after the incident on January 6, 2021.
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Judge orders accused Jan 6 pipe bomber to remain in custody pending trial
www.foxnews.com
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Federal judge orders Jan. 6 pipe bomb suspect to remain detained ahead of trial
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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D.C. Pipe Bomb Suspect Ordered to Remain in Jail Until Trial
www.nytimes.com
The Justice Department has requested records from Minnesota officials regarding the state's voter registration system, specifically focusing on the "vouching" process. This comes as Minnesota is under scrutiny for the Somali child care fraud scandal. The Trump administration is concerned about the state's same-day "vouching" policy, which allows voters to register up to eight others.
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DOJ seeks records about Minnesota ‘vouching’ voter registration system
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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Trump DOJ demands Minnesota voting records over same-day registration 'vouching' concerns
www.foxnews.com
The Fox News Health Newsletter covers trending healthcare stories, drug developments, mental health issues, and inspiring stories of people overcoming medical challenges. It features insights from an NFL neurosurgeon and a brain health expert on longevity secrets, financial strategies for 2026, and essential security steps against cybercriminals. Topics include the benefits of not retiring early, maximizing retirement contributions, cutting subscriptions, portfolio hedging techniques, and cybersecurity measures like two-factor authentication and credit freezing.
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6 longevity rules experts follow for healthier aging in 2026
www.foxnews.com
The BBC has uncovered instances of women being depicted in sexual scenarios without their consent. Users on platform X have expressed worries about explicit content involving minors being created with Musk's Grok tool.
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Elon Musk's Grok AI alters images of women to digitally remove their clothes
www.bbc.com
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Musk's Grok AI bot is fixing safeguard 'lapses' after posting of sexualized images of children
www.cnbc.com
In 2025, Tesla lost its position as the world's top electric vehicle manufacturer to Chinese company BYD. Tesla's sales dropped by 9% to 1.64 million vehicles, while BYD surged ahead with 2.26 million vehicles sold. Tesla faced challenges due to customer backlash over Elon Musk's politics, overseas competition, and the removal of federal incentives. BYD's success in China was partially offset by a price war and low domestic demand. This shift marks a significant achievement for BYD, a company that Elon Musk had previously ridiculed.
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Chinese BYD taking over Tesla as the biggest EV maker
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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Tesla loses world's biggest electric vehicle maker title as sales fall for 2nd year
abcnews.go.com
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Tesla Car Sales Dropped 9% in 2025, Falling Behind China’s BYD
www.nytimes.com
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BYD's China EV deliveries sharply decline in December, but lead overall sales in 2025
www.cnbc.com
Rep. Ro Khanna of California is urging the Justice Department to release the Epstein files sooner, suggesting that Congress could intervene to expedite the process. Despite President Trump's shifting statements, Congress' strong requests, and the Justice Department's gradual disclosure of information, many questions remain unanswered about the case.
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Slow Epstein files release not as concerning as docs DOJ has withheld, says Ro Khanna
www.npr.org
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With few Epstein files released, conspiracy theories flourish and questions remain
www.npr.org
Lamar Jackson will start for the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC North title game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Aaron Rodgers is considering returning for his 22nd NFL season despite retirement rumors. The Steelers quarterback is open to playing beyond 2025 as his team prepares to face the Ravens.
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Lamar Jackson confirms he'll start for Ravens in must-win AFC North finale against Steelers
www.foxnews.com
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Steelers' Aaron Rodgers keeps retirement options open ahead of must-win Ravens game
www.foxnews.com
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's Main Directorate of Intelligence, as his new chief of staff. Budanov, who has a background in military intelligence, is taking over the role to focus on security issues in Ukraine. He is also considered a potential rival to Zelensky in future elections.
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Zelensky selects Ukraine spy chief Kyrylo Budanov to replace disgraced chief of staff
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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Ukraine’s Zelensky Names Kyrylo Budanov as New Chief of Staff
www.nytimes.com
President Donald Trump underwent a CT scan in October at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, with the White House physician reporting normal results. Trump clarified in an interview with the Wall Street Journal that he received a CT scan, not an MRI, and denied rumors about his medical care.
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Trump regrets handing Dems health 'ammunition' with October scan — clarifies it was a CT, not an MRI
www.foxnews.com
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Trump says he did not receive MRI during October exam, contradicting earlier claim
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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Trump says he got a CT scan instead of an MRI
abcnews.go.com
The French government has granted citizenship to George and Amal Clooney due to their contributions to France's international influence. The couple has been living in France since 2021. This decision was defended by the French government after criticism from President Donald Trump and allegations of preferential treatment. George and Amal Clooney have recently confirmed their French citizenship.
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George Clooney gets French citizenship — and another dust-up with Trump
www.npr.org
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France defends granting Clooneys citizenship following Trump mockery
www.washingtonexaminer.com
The Washington Post warns that California may face a 'disaster' as wealthy residents consider leaving due to a proposed billionaire wealth tax. Economists argue that taxing the state's wealthiest individuals could help fund necessary healthcare services. Billionaires like Bill Ackman and Phil Mickelson have criticized the tax proposal, with Mickelson also highlighting the need to address fraud issues before implementing new taxes.
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California will regret billionaire exodus, Washington Post editorial warns
www.foxnews.com
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Billionaire tax proposal sparks soul-searching for Californians
www.latimes.com
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Threat of California Billionaire Tax Draws Criticism From Ultrawealthy
www.wsj.com
In Norway, nearly all new cars sold last year were fully electric, based on registration data released recently. Tesla, the leading electric vehicle manufacturer in the US, was particularly affected by the removal of federal incentives compared to other car companies.
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Norway wraps up 2025 with 96% of its new car market fully electric, and Tesla's sales are surging there
www.cnbc.com
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Tesla Car Sales Dropped 9% in 2025, Falling Behind China’s BYD
www.nytimes.com
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has expressed readiness to negotiate a drug trafficking agreement with the US following military pressure and strikes on suspected drug-trafficking vessels. This announcement comes after months of tension and speculation about potential collaboration between the two countries on this issue.
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Maduro says Venezuela ‘ready’ to talk drug trafficking with US after CIA strikes
nypost.com
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Maduro says Venezuela is ready to discuss an agreement to ‘combat drug trafficking’
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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Maduro says Venezuela is 'ready' to make deal with US on drugs and oil after military strikes
www.foxnews.com
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Maduro says Venezuela open to US talks on drug trafficking
www.bbc.com
In February 2026, Supplemental Security Income payments worth up to $994 will be issued to recipients, with payments going out on January 30 instead of the first of the month. The first round of January Social Security payments for retirees, capped at $5,108, will be issued in 12 days. Retirees born on or before the 10th of a month will receive this payment on January 14, with the second round of payments going out on January 21.
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February Social Security direct payment worth $994 goes out in 28 days
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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First round of January Social Security payments goes out in 12 days
www.washingtonexaminer.com
Summary: Despite predictions of weaker performance and higher inflation rates, Donald Trump's economy saw a 4.3% GDP growth in the third quarter. His first year back in the White House has been marked by sweeping tax legislation, aggressive trade policies, rising borrowing costs, and legal challenges. However, there are concerns about the job market, with descriptions of the search for white-collar work as "brutal" and "traumatic." Unemployment in the U.S. reached a four-year high of 4.6% in November 2025. The inflation crisis inherited from former President Joe Biden has made the cost of living a significant concern for voters.
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STEPHEN MOORE: Economists keep missing the Trump boom — and they won't admit it
www.foxnews.com
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Rising unemployment puts threat of AI competition in stark relief
www.washingtonexaminer.com
In 2026, several new state laws have taken effect, including benefits for minimum wage workers, cancer patients, and parents of young children. California has implemented laws such as banning law enforcement officers from wearing masks, reducing the cost of insulin, and requiring landlords to provide refrigerators. Additionally, new laws across the country cover areas like artificial intelligence, healthcare, climate, and income tax reductions in nine states.
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Five Laws Going Into Effect for New York in 2026
www.nytimes.com
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Rideshare union rights, social media limits and other state laws taking effect Jan. 1
www.npr.org
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California rolls out sweeping new laws for 2026, from cellphone limits in schools to a ban on cat declawing
www.latimes.com
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Notable new state laws taking effect in 2026 cover hotels, AI and climate
abcnews.go.com
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Opinion | Happy Tax Cut New Year
www.wsj.com
Many Americans covered under the Affordable Care Act are facing challenges paying for insurance as enhanced subsidies expire, leading to steeper healthcare costs for over 20 million people in the New Year.
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With Obamacare’s Higher Premiums Come Difficult Decisions
www.nytimes.com
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Americans brace to start New Year without healthcare
www.bbc.com
President Donald Trump faces challenges in maintaining control of Congress after the midterm elections, with history working against him. He has been pressuring state Republicans to redraw congressional districts in favor of the GOP. Trump recently hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago for New Year's Eve, aiming to find a peace deal. Despite celebrating the New Year in Florida, Trump is gearing up for a significant year in Washington, with Republican majorities in Congress. Trump expressed his New Year's resolution as "Peace on Earth" amidst uncertainties, including Russian advances in eastern Ukraine.
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What can Trump do to change the tide before the 2026 midterm elections?
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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President Donald Trump shares his New Year's resolution
www.foxnews.com
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Another New Year at War: Ukraine’s Troops Doubt It Will Be the Last
www.nytimes.com
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Trump calls for ‘peace on Earth’ at glittering Mar-a-Lago New Year’s Eve bash
nypost.com
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Zelenskyy suggests Trump fly to Ukraine to help 'end the war'
abcnews.go.com
Patients have been transferred to hospitals in Germany, Italy, and France, with France confirming that 11 injury victims will be hospitalized there.
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Switzerland’s Burn Centers Are Overwhelmed After New Year’s Fire
www.nytimes.com
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Switzerland’s burn centers are so overwhelmed that fire victims are being sent to other countries.
www.nytimes.com
"Stranger Things" was originally planned as a limited series but continued for five seasons over nearly 10 years. The show was given two extra hours to wrap up its storyline, and major events are highlighted in the conclusion.
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Stranger Things is the Happy Days of the COVID-19 era
www.washingtonexaminer.com
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‘Stranger Things’ Has Ended. What Happened in the Series Finale?
www.nytimes.com
European markets are starting the new year on a positive note, while some Asian markets like Japan and mainland China remain closed for the holidays.
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European stocks poised to start 2026 in positive territory; gold and silver prices rally
www.cnbc.com
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Asia-Pacific markets set to start 2026 on a mixed note
www.cnbc.com