By Lorena Guzmán-Díaz
Edited by Elissa D. Hecker
Below, for your browsing convenience, the categories are divided into: Entertainment, Arts, Sports, Technology/Media, and General News.
Entertainment
Alec Baldwin Sues New Mexico Prosecutors Over Dismissed ‘Rust’ Case
Actor Alec Baldwin has filed a lawsuit against New Mexico prosecutors and law enforcement, alleging malicious prosecution related to the "Rust" film set shooting. The involuntary manslaughter case against him was dismissed due to withheld evidence. Baldwin's suit claims violations of his constitutional rights and requests monetary damages for legal costs and emotional distress. Despite the dismissal, he still faces civil suits. Prosecutors maintain that their actions sought justice for the victim.
Dark Web Dealer Who Stole Unreleased Coldplay Music Gets Suspended Sentence
Skylar Dalziel received a suspended 21-month sentence for selling unreleased music by artists like Coldplay and Shawn Mendes, making around £42,000 between April 2021 and January 2023. Caught after a raid prompted by a tip-off, she pleaded guilty to copyright and computer misuse offenses and must complete 180 hours of unpaid work. Dalziel accessed about 290,000 tracks via cloud accounts, selling them through an online forum. The police, with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, are investigating others involved. This highlights the significant impact on artists and the music industry. Authorities remain determined to hold cybercriminals accountable.
Former MoviePass Executive Pleads Guilty To Fraud Over ‘Unlimited’ Plan
Theodore Farnsworth, ex-MoviePass exec, has admitted to securities fraud, deceiving investors about the company's "unlimited" plan, and also to conspiracy to commit securities fraud at Vinco Ventures, Inc. He faces up to 20 years for the MoviePass fraud, which caused financial ruin and led to the service's 2019 collapse. MoviePass relaunched in 2022 with new pricing. Details of Farnsworth's guilty plea are undisclosed, with a status conference set for July.
Spotify CEO Daniel Ek Sells Millions In Shares Amid Legal Threat
Spotify CEO Daniel Ek's fortune has risen to $7.3 billion with Spotify stock growth. After legal pressure, a controversial tool revealing the disparity between artist pay and executive compensation, Spotify Unwrapped, was removed, but its methodology still circulates online. Amidst a surge in Spotify's valuation towards $100 billion, Ek and insiders cashed in significantly amid cost cuts and increased fees, sparking unrest among artists and subscribers over financial practices and pay issues.
https://www.musicinafrica.net/magazine/spotify-ceo-daniel-ek-sells-millions-shares-amid-legal-threat
Spotify Employees Say It is Promoting Fake Artists To Reduce Royalty Payments To Real Ones
Liz Pelly's "Mood Machine: The Rise of Spotify and the Costs of the Perfect Playlist" reveals Spotify's "Perfect Fit Content" (PFC) initiative, where the company boosts inexpensive, in-house-produced music to cut costs and reduce payouts to genuine artists. This system, active since the mid-2010s and profitable by 2017, was facilitated through affiliated firms that produced low-budget stock music added to playlists by Spotify staff, often under pressure and against their ethical judgement. By 2023, PFC tracks filled over 150 playlists. Pelly's book includes a case of a jazz musician who contributed to PFC as an anonymous ambient track creator, uncovering that he was undercompensated and under-credited. Despite previous denials, CEO Daniel Ek's recent statements hint at a company pivot, yet Spotify has not addressed these specific claims.
Are Eco-Friendly Tours The Future of Live Music? How Billie Eilish and Coldplay Make Their Concerts Sustainable
Eco-friendly tours are gaining traction among musicians like Billie Eilish and Coldplay to make concerts more sustainable. They are reducing plastic waste, offering plant-based food, promoting public transit, and offsetting carbon emissions. Organizations like Reverb assist by collaborating with venues and communities to promote green practices. Despite challenges in achieving zero carbon emissions, the music industry is adopting measures to lessen its environmental impact. These efforts not only combat climate change, they also inspire fans to adopt sustainable habits.
Arts
As Flames Consume Architectural Gems, A Hit To ‘Old California’
Discussions around the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles focus on the impact they have had on iconic architectural sites, such as the historic ranch house of Will Rogers and Ray Kappe's Keeler House. The obliteration of these buildings represents a major blow to the cultural heritage of the area. Notable structures consumed by the flames underscore the city's rich architectural lineage. The demise of these landmarks underscores Los Angeles's susceptibility to natural calamities and underscores the critical need to safeguard and cherish the city's architectural treasures.
Los Angeles Artists Mourn As Their Studios and Artworks Go Up in Smoke
Los Angeles artists are mourning the loss of their studios, artworks, and homes due to recent fires. Artists like Alec Egan, Diana Thater, and Kelly Akashi have lost irreplaceable works, facing uncertainties about their livelihoods. These fires have devastated the artistic community, destroying years of work, personal collections, and commissioned projects. Upcoming exhibitions are disrupted, and artists are rethinking their plans. While the community supports those affected, the emotional and financial toll is immense.
The Painting, The Photograph And The War For Ukraine's Culture
A photograph depicts Ukrainian soldiers reenacting a famous 19th-century painting of Cossacks, emphasizing the cultural battle between Russia and Ukraine and the struggle for identity. Captured by a French photographer, the image challenges Russia's narrative by linking historical Cossacks to modern Ukrainian soldiers. The original painting, attributed to Illia Repin, symbolizes Ukrainian heritage but is claimed by both Ukraine and Russia. This photograph helps Ukrainians reclaim their cultural identity and heritage, particularly amid Russia's occupation and the destruction of Ukrainian cultural treasures. It aims to assist Ukraine in rebuilding its cultural heritage affected by the ongoing war.
Sports
Sports Streaming Service From Media Giants Ends Before It Starts
Venu Sports, a joint venture sports streaming service among Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros., has been discontinued. Announced with enthusiasm, the service was cancelled before its launch due to legal challenges. Venu Sports intended to offer a bundled streaming service featuring sports content from the three companies at a lower cost than traditional cable bundles. However, allegations of anticompetitive behavior led to its demise.
U.S. Funding Dispute With World Anti-Doping Agency Boils Over; Salt Lake Olympics At Risk
The United States withheld funding for the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) after concerns about its handling of positive drug tests for elite Chinese swimmers. In response, WADA removed the U.S. representative from its board. The U.S. had planned to contribute $3.6 million in 2024, a significant portion of WADA's budget. This decision could impact the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, as the U.S. government faces investigations and potential repercussions.
Vince McMahon Settles With S.E.C. Over Failing To Disclose Confidential Payments To Women
Vince McMahon, former WWE CEO, settled with the SEC over not disclosing multimillion-dollar settlements, including one for assault. He agreed to a $400,000 fine and a $1.3 million reimbursement to WWE without admitting guilt. The SEC noted his nondisclosure led to accounting errors. McMahon previously settled with women for $7.5 million and $3 million for confidentiality, with WWE's board reporting $14.6 million spent on such settlements. After merging WWE in 2023, he resigned in 2024 amid sexual abuse allegations.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/10/business/vince-mcmahon-sec-settlement.html?searchResultPosition=1
Wimbledon Tennis Expansion Opponents Start Legal Action Against All England Club Plans
Residents' group Save Wimbledon Park (SWP) has initiated legal action against the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) over their plans to expand Wimbledon's tennis facilities. The group is challenging the validity of the planning permission granted by the Mayor of London for the redevelopment of the former Wimbledon Park golf course. SWP argues that the expansion would breach a statutory trust requiring the land to be kept for public recreation. The AELTC believes the trust does not apply to the land in question. The legal process is expected to take months, with a potential judicial review in 2026. The AELTC's expansion plans aim to add one stadium court and 38 other courts to ensure Wimbledon remains competitive with other Grand Slam tournaments.
Technology/Media
Supreme Court Seems Poised To Uphold Law That Could Ban TikTok
The Supreme Court is likely to uphold a law that could ban TikTok in the U.S. due to national security concerns and Chinese control. The law mandates that ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, sell the app or face shutdown. While Justices noted First Amendment issues, they prioritized protecting American data from Chinese influence. Fast-tracked for a decision, the case addresses digital-age concerns given TikTok's cultural impact. Arguments covered free speech, espionage risks, and effects on users and creators. The law has spurred debate over foreign ownership, data use, and free speech, with most Justices appearing to support the law, balancing national security and individual freedoms.
TikTok Is Facing Legal Backlash Around The World
TikTok is battling legal woes globally, with various countries—including Russia, Romania, Albania, India, Nepal, and Indonesia—taking measures against the app due to issues with its Chinese ties, user impact, and data privacy concerns. Despite facing bans, fines, mandatory local partnerships, and government device restrictions, TikTok maintains popularity with over a billion users. The app's algorithm draws legislative attention, and ByteDance, its owner, navigates a U.S. legal confrontation over a potential ban or forced divestment. This reflects broader apprehensions about the global spread of Chinese tech firms.
TikTok Stars And Marketers Brace For App’s Disappearance This Month
Marketers, agencies, and content creators are bracing for TikTok's potential U.S. ban by shifting focus to Instagram and YouTube. With TikTok challenging a law signed by President Biden that threatens its operations, businesses are modifying contracts with influencers, who in turn are directing followers to other platforms and gathering contact details. The industry is expressing a blend of worry and skepticism over TikTok's uncertain status, prompting agencies to counsel creators on spreading their presence across various social networks to reduce potential fallout. While some creators remain hopeful about adapting, others fear for their career prospects without TikTok.
Meta Says It Will End Its Fact-Checking Program on Social Media Posts
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has announced the end of its fact-checking program on social media posts. Instead of using third-party fact-checkers, Meta will now rely on users to correct inaccurate or false information. This shift in policy is seen as a move to align with the Trump presidency and prioritize free speech online. The decision is likely to please President-elect Trump and his allies who have criticized social media platforms for censorship. Despite concerns raised by misinformation researchers and some employees, allies of Trump have welcomed the change as a win for free speech. The move is part of Meta's broader strategy shift, which includes changes in leadership and operations.
Anthropic Agrees To Ensure That AI Outputs Don’t Include Copyright Content Amid Lawsuit From Music Publishers
AI developer Anthropic has agreed to implement guardrails to prevent AI models from including copyrighted content, following a lawsuit from music publishers. This agreement allows for existing and improved guardrails in current and future models and requires Anthropic to address copyright concerns promptly. The lawsuit's claim that Anthropic used copyrighted material for AI training is unresolved. This agreement may influence similar lawsuits against AI companies, with others like OpenAI facing related challenges. Collaborative agreements, such as OpenAI's licensing with Conde Nast and Microsoft's partnership with Harper Collins, are emerging as possible solutions.
Biden Administration Ignites Firestorm With Rules Governing A.I.’s Global Spread
The Biden administration is rapidly drafting regulations for artificial intelligence (A.I.) to keep the technology within the U.S. and allied nations. The rules will control where American-made A.I. chips and data centers are located, focusing on national security and limiting access for rival nations like China. This has caused tension between tech companies and the government, with firms like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Oracle worried about economic impacts. While some support the regulations, others fear they may hinder technological progress and strain international relations.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/09/business/economy/biden-ai-chips-rules.html?searchResultPosition=1
Fox Must Face Smartmatic's $2.7 Billion Defamation Lawsuit, Court Rules
A New York State appeals court has denied Fox Corporation's motion to dismiss part of Smartmatic's $2.7 billion defamation lawsuit. Filed in 2021, the lawsuit accuses Fox News of defaming Smartmatic by promoting false vote-rigging claims about the 2020 presidential election. The court ruled that Smartmatic's claims can proceed to trial, despite Fox's dismissal efforts. Previously, Fox News settled a similar lawsuit with Dominion Voting Systems for $787.5 million. The Smartmatic trial is scheduled in Manhattan state court, unless settled. Fox plans to defend the case, arguing that Smartmatic's damages claims are implausible and suppress First Amendment freedoms.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/09/business/media/fox-smartmatic-lawsuit.html?searchResultPosition=1
Fox Sports, Skip Bayless Sued By Former Hairstylist Alleging Sexual Battery, Retaliation
A former Fox Sports hairstylist has sued the network, host Skip Bayless, and executives for sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation. The lawsuit alleges that Bayless made unwanted advances and offers for sex, plus verbal and physical harassment. FS1 executive Charlie Dixon is also accused of groping the hairstylist. The suit claims that Fox had a hostile work environment where harassment was tolerated, and proper wages weren't paid. The hairstylist was allegedly fired for reporting misconduct. Fox Sports said they take the allegations seriously, while Bayless did not comment. The lawsuit seeks damages for sexual battery, harassment, and wrongful termination.
Exxon Sues California Official, Claiming He Defamed The Company
Exxon Mobil is suing California's attorney general for defamation, accusing him and environmental groups of attempting to sabotage its plastics recycling business. The lawsuit disputes California's claims about Exxon's misleading recycling campaigns and seeks damages and retractions from Attorney General Rob Bonta and groups like the Sierra Club. This conflict reflects broader tensions between big oil and environmental organizations, also involving an Australian charity and industrialist Andrew Forrest. Exxon's action is part of a wider trend of energy companies facing climate misinformation lawsuits.
Every AI Copyright Lawsuit In The U.S., Visualized
Thomson Reuters sued Ross Intelligence for copyright violation in May 2020, igniting a broader legal battle between content publishers and AI companies in the U.S. Over the past two years, multiple copyright lawsuits have been filed against AI firms, including OpenAI, Meta, Microsoft, Google, Anthropic, and Nvidia, which often claim fair use as a defense. WIRED is tracking these cases, which could significantly impact the information ecosystem and the AI industry. The Thomson Reuters v. Ross Intelligence case is ongoing with a delayed trial, while others, like The New York Times against OpenAI and Microsoft, are in contentious discovery phases.
Fable, A Book App, Makes Changes After Offensive A.I. Messages
After criticism of its AI suggesting readers of Black narratives explore white authors, the book app Fable implemented safeguards. Product chief Chris Gallello recognized the problem and announced new measures: AI summaries now carry disclaimers, users can opt out, and a feature to report offensive AI content has been added. Fable has since removed all AI-generated content following unacceptable summaries experienced by users. The incident stirred debate about AI in content generation and the necessity of ethical management. Disheartened users began exploring alternative apps. Fable has apologized and stressed the importance of rebuilding user trust.
Giuliani Is Held in Contempt of Court in Defamation Case
Former NYC Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani has been found in contempt for not submitting $11 million in assets to Georgia poll workers who succeeded in a defamation suit against him. The court has questioned his claim of Florida residency and notes his non-compliance could harm his defense. He may face fines or jail for his defiance. Giuliani's representative deems the ruling politically biased, as he faces this setback in his legal woes, with the prospect of further contempt charges in another case.
France Indicts Founder of Notorious Website Used in Pelicot Rape Case
Isaac Steidl, creator of coco.fr, is facing charges in France with a potential 10-year prison sentence and a 7.5 million euro fine connected to the Pelicot rape case and other offenses. The site, now closed after an 18-month investigation, was linked to over 23,000 sexual abuse incidents and crimes including drug dealing, child pornography, prostitution, and money laundering. Involved in a case where Dominique Pelicot orchestrated rapes of his sedated wife, Steidl denies the charges but is under judicial supervision in France. He has given up his French nationality and is cooperating with the investigation, while nonprofits advocated for the site's shutdown due to its criminal ties.
General News
Four Years After Capitol Riot, Congress Certifies Trump's Victory Peacefully
Four years since the Capitol riot, President-elect Donald J. Trump's 2024 election victory was peacefully certified by Congress. Vice President Kamala Harris, conceding her defeat, presided over a seamless joint session. Security was tight at the Capitol, yet the proceedings were calm and efficient, with both parties accepting the electoral results without objection. This orderly transition stood in stark contrast to the past turmoil, with President Biden urging remembrance of the riot and denouncing historical revisionism.
Jimmy Carter Remembered In Washington As A 'Practitioner of Good Works'
At his state funeral in Washington, Former President Jimmy Carter was lauded for his commitment to justice, health, and peace. Despite a challenging presidency with events like inflation and the Iran hostage crisis, Carter was commended for his diplomacy, environmental efforts, and humanitarian work. Attended by five living presidents, the funeral honored his integrity and continuous service, especially in his post-presidential years. The ceremony highlighted the disparity between Carter's leadership and today's political scene, promoting a reevaluation of his impact as a president. Carter's ascent from a modest Georgia upbringing to the nation's highest office inspired many, and his lifelong devotion to faith, democracy, and modesty was commemorated. Carter was later interred in Georgia beside his wife, Rosalynn, concluding a life emblematic of dedication to public service.
Supreme Court Denies Trump's Last-Ditch Effort To Avoid Sentencing
The U.S. Supreme Court denied Trump's emergency bid to halt his criminal sentencing in New York, allowing the sentencing to proceed as planned. The Court ruled in a 5-4 decision that the sentencing would not impose a significant burden on Trump, who was convicted on 34 felony counts related to a sex scandal. Despite his efforts to delay sentencing, the Court chose to stay out of the case, leading to the formalization of his conviction. Trump, who is not facing jail time, plans to appeal the conviction.
A Rebuke to Trump Provides a Telling Portrait of a Divided Supreme Court
The Supreme Court ruling denied President-elect Donald Trump's request to avoid sentencing for 34 felonies in a 5-4 decision, showcasing splits within the Court. Republican-appointed Chief Justice Roberts and Justice Barrett sided with the liberal justices, signaling Roberts' changing positions and Barrett's autonomy. Trump's previous interactions with the court and his criticism of its justices come under scrutiny, as the ruling illuminates the court's current makeup and its relationship with his administration.
Supreme Court To Hear New Affordable Care Act Case On Preventative Care
The Supreme Court will hear a case concerning the Affordable Care Act, focusing on a task force that dictates which preventative care treatments must be covered by insurance at no cost. Lower courts found that the task force was not validly appointed. The Biden administration emphasizes the importance of such coverage, like life-saving lung cancer screenings. The challenge comes from Texas residents and small Christian-affiliated businesses over the decision to cover H.I.V. prevention medication. This case questions the task force's constitutional authority and independence. Both the Biden administration and challengers seek the Supreme Court's review, which could impact insurance coverage for preventative care services.
The President-Elect Is A Felon, But His Sentence Carries No Penalty
Trump became a felon after being sentenced for falsifying business records to conceal a sex scandal, avoiding jail time. The judge imposed an unconditional discharge, citing the constitutional and practical impossibility of incarcerating a president-elect. This largely consequence-free sentence, an unusual alternative to jail or probation, underscored both the supremacy and limits of presidential power. Critics disappointed by the lack of a harsher penalty, like seeing him handcuffed, found the trial's unique circumstances led to leniency. Despite his claims of innocence and criticisms of the legal system, Trump was held accountable, although the impact was minimal due to his upcoming second presidential term.
Tulsa Massacre Was A 'Coordinated, Military-Style Attack,' Federal Report Says
The Justice Department released a report on the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, labeling it a "coordinated, military-style attack" by white citizens on a prosperous Black neighborhood in Oklahoma, resulting in up to 300 Black deaths. Although no living individuals can be prosecuted, the report emphasizes historical reckoning. Conducted under the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act, the investigation corrects past misconceptions and details the massacre's destruction and aftermath. Despite challenges in obtaining justice and reparations, recent efforts aim to acknowledge and study the massacre's impacts.
Appeals Court Declines To Block Release of Special Counsel Report on Trump Cases
A federal appeals court declined to block the release of a special counsel report on the two now-closed investigations conducted on Trump. The court rejected an emergency request from Trump's legal team to stop the report from being released. The report is currently under an injunction, barring its disclosure for three days. The Justice Department intends to release one volume of the report while holding off on the part related to mishandling classified documents. The legal battle continues, with the fate of the report's public disclosure still uncertain.
Appeals Court Judge Refuses To Halt Trump's New York Sentencing
An appellate court judge has declined to suspend Trump's criminal sentencing in New York, bringing him closer to an unprecedented status of a serving president with a felony. Trump's legal tactics aimed at procrastination or dismissal have had varied outcomes, and while he could still approach federal courts for relief, the recent ruling narrows his legal avenues. Even as the judge reinforced the significance of the legal process by dismissing claims of immunity, suggestions point to a likely lenient outcome, potentially an unconditional discharge without incarceration, opposed to the originally envisaged sentence.
A Flurry of Announcements Signal That The Trump Family Will Keep Making Deals
The Trump family remains engaged in intertwining their business endeavors with governance plans, often blurring distinctions between government roles and their private dealings. Trump, along with his sons and son-in-law Jared Kushner, engages in international business ventures, including Middle Eastern real estate projects and partnerships with firms like DAMAC Properties, raising conflict-of-interest concerns. Intent on pursuing global deals, they have proposed an ethics plan that involves an independent legal adviser to monitor transactions. Amidst ongoing scrutiny, especially during Trump's second presidency, the family defends their integrity and dedication to national interests while continuing their business pursuits.
Congress Overhauled The Electoral Count Process After The 2021 Violence
Enacted in 2022, bipartisan legislation has reformed the electoral count process, reacting to the disturbances during the 2021 electoral count. The law now ensures a higher threshold for congressional objections to electoral votes and delineates the vice president's role as purely ceremonial, preventing any singular override of state votes. With measures to curtail election interference, the statute, championed by Senator Susan Collins, garnered backing from Senate leaders across party lines, reflecting a repudiation of future election subversion efforts.
U.S. Steel and Nippon Sue Biden Over Decision to Block Merger
U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel are suing the U.S. government over President Biden's decision to block their merger due to national security concerns. They claim that the review process was politically influenced and seek a new assessment. The lawsuit also accuses Cleveland-Cliffs and union leaders of collusion to thwart the merger. Despite presidential powers over national security threats, the companies are contesting the decision in court. The Biden administration defends its action as necessary for national security. This legal challenge could affect U.S. authority in reviewing foreign deals.
Atlanta D.A. Asks Georgia Court To Review Decision Kicking Her Off Trump Case
Atlanta District Attorney Fani Willis is appealing to the Georgia Supreme Court to overturn a decision barring her from prosecuting Donald Trump for election tampering, due to a past romantic involvement with a lawyer on the case. This appeal is Willis's last opportunity to maintain her role, but the court's Republican lean raises doubts about the outcome. If unsuccessful, the case could stall or be taken over by a GOP-dominated state committee. Despite these challenges, Willis remains committed to the case. Meanwhile, Trump's legal situation is changing; the Justice Department has dropped two cases against him, while a New York verdict convicted him of document falsification. His associates continue to face legal challenges in various states.
Drug Company To Share Revenues With Indigenous People Who Donated Their Genes
Variant Bio is working with Indigenous groups to create medications for metabolic ailments, pledging revenue sharing for genetic contributions. They are undertaking a $50 million partnership with Novo Nordisk focusing on diabetes and obesity treatments. The approach marks progress in Indigenous genetics, aiming to remedy historical wrongs and build trust through a transparent, collaborative model that funds community initiatives and scholarships while maintaining ethical standards against exploitation.
Democrats Prevail in Virginia Races, The First Elections Since Trump's Win
Democrats secured two crucial Virginia state legislative seats, sustaining their majority in the General Assembly in special elections post-Trump presidency. With Kannan Srinivasan and JJ Singh clinching victories in the State Senate and State House, respectively, the party retained control, countering intensifying federal-level extremism. Meanwhile, Republicans held onto a central Virginia State Senate seat. These victories provide a boost for Democrats aiming to progress on significant state issues.
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/07/us/politics/virginia-legislature-special-elections-democrats.html
Consulate At Heart of Adams Case Got Special Treatment, Review Finds
A city comptroller's report found the Turkish Consulate in Manhattan opened without fire safety certification, allegedly due to pressure from Mayor Eric Adams, who faces federal charges for accepting favors to expedite the opening. Despite lacking a certificate of occupancy, the consulate began operations in 2021. Allegations include luxury trips and unlawful donations linked to Adams, who denies the charges. The investigation highlights compromised safety and a pattern of office buildings lacking proper occupancy certificates.
Guantánamo Bay Explained: The Costs, The Captives And Why It’s Still Open
Guantánamo Bay prison remains open after two decades, with just 15 detainees left. Operational costs, legislative barriers, and past CIA torture effects hinder its closure. Detainees face health declines from extended solitary confinement. Releasing more prisoners presents challenges, with past administrations setting varying precedents for releases.
How A Phone Call Drew Alito Into A Trump Loyalty Squabble
A phone interaction between Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. and President-elect Trump involved Alito in a loyalty disagreement in Trump's circle, following a call started by Alito's ex-law clerk concerning job qualifications. Justice Alito's claim that they didn't cover the pending application didn't dispel conflict of interest worries. Trump's team was known to screen for loyalty, eyeing ties to figures like ex-Attorney General William P. Barr with caution. This case underscores the ethical questions arising from executive-judicial communications, given past president-judge encounters.
In Congress, A Push For Proxy Voting For New Parents Draws Bipartisan Support
Representative Brittany Pettersen and a bipartisan group of lawmakers are advocating for proxy voting for new parents in Congress. Currently, there is no maternity leave, requiring parents to be present at the Capitol to vote. The proposed resolution would enable new parents to vote remotely for up to 12 weeks while on parental leave. This initiative has bipartisan support and is viewed as a necessary modernization to support working families and young lawmakers. The push addresses challenges faced by lawmakers like Pettersen in balancing legislative duties with parenting responsibilities.
Inside Trump’s Search For A Health Threat To Justify His Immigration Crackdown
Seeking to seal the U.S.-Mexico border, President-elect Trump and his advisers are looking for a public health threat like tuberculosis as grounds to block immigrants, aiming to stop disease entry into the U.S. Despite no pressing health crisis, they see public health rules as a means to deny migrants entry, echoing past policies. Advisor Stephen Miller eyes Title 42 for migration control, attempting to find disease cases among migrants to justify use. The tactic, disputed during both Biden's and Trump's tenures, is part of Trump's wider immigration clampdown plans.
Jack Smith, Who Led Prosecutions of Trump, Resigns
Jack Smith, the special counsel leading prosecutions against former President Donald J. Trump, has resigned. Appointed by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, Smith left before Trump's inauguration, confirmed through a court document footnote. His efforts were hampered by Trump's political victory and a Justice Department policy barring prosecution of a sitting president. Smith's resignation ends a legal battle that did not result in convictions. His final report's release is delayed due to challenges from Trump's legal team. Democrats are urging President Biden to issue a pre-emptive pardon for Smith and his team amid possible Republican scrutiny.
Judge Cannon Blocks Release of Special Counsel's Final Report on Trump
Judge Aileen M. Cannon, appointed by Trump, has provisionally halted the Justice Department from publishing special counsel Jack Smith's report on President-elect Trump's handling of classified documents. The decision is amid ongoing appeals in Trump's legal matters. Despite Trump's approval of Cannon, experts challenge the judge's authority to intervene during an appeal. Trump's legal team aims to keep the report under wraps, claiming political bias. Reports by special counsels, often private at first, may be disclosed by the Attorney General. The document might offer new insights, although prior court filings suggest otherwise.
Judge Rejects Biden's Title IX Rules, Scrapping Protections for Trans Students
A federal judge in Kentucky has blocked President Biden's Title IX rules, which sought to extend protections for transgender students and prevent gender identity discrimination. The judge found that the Education Department exceeded its authority by mandating that teachers use students' preferred pronouns. This ruling hampers the Biden administration's efforts to enhance safeguards for LGBTQ and pregnant students and raises concerns about possible free speech infringements. Student rights activists and civil rights groups have criticized the decision, while conservative lawmakers view it as a victory.
Trump Organization Issues Ethics Pledge for President-Elect’s Second Term
The Trump Organization announced an ethics plan for President-Elect Donald Trump's second term, involving appointing an external lawyer and limiting access to detailed financial data. However, ethics experts argue it's insufficient, particularly regarding foreign conflict of interest concerns. The family vows to donate profits from foreign transactions and offer government discounts at their properties. Critics claim the plan fails to address using Trump's position to benefit his properties and conflicts from his business ownership, citing loopholes and weaknesses.
Trump’s Pick for U.S. Attorney Is Enmeshed in Long Island Politics
Joseph Nocella Jr., a district court judge on Long Island, has been chosen by President-elect Donald J. Trump as the next U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York. Nocella has a background in Republican politics in Nassau County and has experience in both small court cases and high-profile criminal prosecution. Supporters praise his qualifications, while critics view him as overly partisan. Nocella's nomination awaits Senate approval.
What If ICE Agents Show Up? Schools Prepare Teachers And Parents.
U.S. public schools are preparing for potential deportations under President-elect Trump's administration, establishing measures to protect students with uncertain immigration statuses. Schools are educating parents on legal rights, training staff on dealing with immigration enforcement, and creating policies to ensure immigrant children continue their education amidst fears. Districts are responding with legal workshops, clarifying federal agent access restrictions, and providing extra support for newly arrived immigrant students, focusing on maintaining educational rights for these students.
Here Are Four Possible Contenders To Succeed Justin Trudeau
The potential contenders to succeed Justin Trudeau as leader of Canada's Liberal Party and potentially become the next Prime Minister include Chrystia Freeland, Mark Carney, and Christy Clark. Chrystia Freeland, a former deputy prime minister and finance minister, is speculated to run for the leadership. Mark Carney, who served as governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, is also a possible candidate. Christy Clark, former leader of the British Columbia Liberal Party, is considering a bid for leadership. Initially considered contenders, Dominic LeBlanc and Mélanie Joly have decided not to pursue the leadership role.
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