A Pentagon report found that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used the Signal messaging app to discuss sensitive military operations, which might have put personnel and missions at risk. The investigation concluded Hegseth did not follow protocol by using his personal phone for these discussions and there is ongoing scrutiny about his actions.
Key Facts
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used Signal to discuss military operations about Yemen.
The Pentagon report states using Signal violated security protocols since it's not a secure network for classified information.
Hegseth has the authority to declassify information, making the consequences of his actions unclear.
The investigation suggests all Pentagon officials need better training on communication protocols.
The report has not been published yet, but one version is expected to be released soon.
Some lawmakers have asked for Hegseth to be fired, but President Trump downplayed the situation.
The investigation began after a journalist was accidentally added to the Signal chat group Hegseth used.
Hegseth claims he was exonerated by the report, although it does not fully clear him of wrongdoing.
The FBI has arrested a person believed to have planted pipe bombs near the Republican and Democratic headquarters in Washington, D.C., the night before the 2021 Capitol riot. This arrest comes nearly five years after the incident, which was previously unsolved.
Key Facts
The FBI arrested a suspect in a nearly 5-year-old case involving pipe bombs.
The bombs were found near the Republican and Democratic headquarters in Washington, D.C.
The incident occurred the night before the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021.
The bombs did not explode.
Security footage showed the suspect wearing a mask, glasses, gray hoodie, and gloves.
The suspect used a backpack to carry the bombs.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino had recently announced a new investigation strategy.
The FBI has not commented yet on this development.
The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) in Washington has been renamed to include President Donald Trump's name by the Department of State. This renaming comes just before a peace agreement signing ceremony between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo at the building. The Trump administration has been involved in changes at USIP, which led to legal issues still being decided in court.
Key Facts
The US Institute of Peace is now called the "Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace."
The name change happened before a peace deal was signed between Rwanda and the DRC at the location.
USIP is an independent non-profit funded by Congress.
The Trump administration attempted to control the institute by reducing staff and budget, causing legal disputes.
President Trump has sought a Nobel Peace Prize and talks about his diplomatic achievements.
The Department of State described Trump as "the greatest dealmaker" in its announcement.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio referred to Trump as the "President of Peace."
The future of USIP is uncertain due to court cases about these changes.
President Donald Trump criticized Somali immigrants, claiming they have harmed the U.S. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar responded by calling his remarks inappropriate.
Key Facts
President Trump said Somali immigrants have "destroyed our country."
Congresswoman Ilhan Omar criticized President Trump's comments.
Ilhan Omar described Trump's remarks as "creepy."
Trump suggested that Ilhan Omar should be removed from the U.S.
The exchange highlights a conflict between Trump and Omar over immigration.
Health experts in the U.S. are discussing whether to change the timing of the hepatitis B vaccine given to newborns. This vaccine has been administered at birth since 1991 and has greatly reduced childhood infections. Delaying this vaccination could potentially increase the risk of children contracting the virus.
Key Facts
The hepatitis B vaccine is currently given to newborns in the U.S. right after birth.
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices may vote to delay the hepatitis B vaccine for newborns.
Some experts believe delaying the vaccine could increase the number of hepatitis B cases.
Hepatitis B is a virus that affects the liver and spreads through contact with bodily fluids.
The vaccine has helped decrease childhood infections by 95% since 1991.
Delaying the vaccine could lead to more liver diseases and cancers as the children age.
Hepatitis B often shows no symptoms, making it hard to diagnose without tests.
ICE arrests have increased significantly under President Trump's second term, with the agency aiming for high daily arrest numbers. Despite not reaching the target of 3,000 arrests per day, ICE has been arresting more undocumented immigrants compared to previous years. The increase includes arrests of individuals without criminal records, leading to some legal challenges.
Key Facts
ICE arrests have risen since the start of President Trump's second term.
The government aimed for 3,000 arrests per day but has not reached that number.
ICE's recent daily arrest average is about 1,100 people.
Data shows ICE arrested 821 people per day between January 20 and October 15.
Homeland Security claims an average of 1,800 arrests per day.
Agencies assisting ICE include Border Patrol, the Secret Service, and others.
Arrests include individuals without criminal convictions, a shift from the previous administration.
Legal challenges have arisen, with judges ordering the release of some arrested individuals.
A Colorado mom named Melissa Dawson shared her views on how physical education (P.E.) is taught in schools, sparking a debate online. Dawson believes that P.E. often associates movement with negative experiences like humiliation and competition instead of joy and lifelong fitness. Her ideas for a more inclusive P.E. approach have gained significant attention and support on social media.
Key Facts
Melissa Dawson is a Colorado mom who spoke out about her experiences with physical education in schools.
She believes traditional P.E. focuses too much on competition and can be humiliating for nonathletic kids.
Dawson suggests offering more diverse and inclusive activities like yoga, dance, and hiking in P.E. classes.
Her post has gained over 45,000 likes and shares on Threads, indicating strong public interest.
Some schools are already offering non-competitive fitness options, like yoga and running.
Many commenters shared similar negative experiences with school P.E. activities.
Dawson's suggestions emphasize choice and enjoyment in physical activity.
Federal grants for libraries and museums in the United States, which had been cut following an executive order from President Donald Trump, have been reinstated. This decision follows a court ruling that found the cuts were not lawful, confirming that Congress has authority over deciding federal funding.
Key Facts
The American Library Association announced that federal funding for libraries and museums was reinstated.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) had its grants cut following an executive order from President Trump.
Attorneys general from 21 states sued, arguing that only Congress can decide federal spending.
A federal court ruled the cuts unlawful and required the immediate reinstatement of grants.
This ruling affects all U.S. states and territories and overturns the attempt to dismantle IMLS funding.
IMLS provides grants to libraries and museums, crucial for programs like literacy and job assistance.
In 2024, IMLS allocated $266.7 million in grants, a small portion of the federal budget.
The American Library Association and others consider this grant reinstatement a significant victory.
President Trump plans to travel across the United States to promote his economic plans before the midterm elections. This move comes in response to criticism about rising living costs and aims to improve his approval rating and help the Republican Party retain control of the House. His efforts will start with an appearance in Pennsylvania, where he will highlight his economic achievements and propose new measures.
Key Facts
President Trump will begin a nationwide tour to support his economic agenda.
The travel plan starts next week in northeastern Pennsylvania.
The focus is on addressing criticism about the cost of living and rising prices.
Trump aims to improve his approval rating and help Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections.
He has suggested ideas like $2,000 tariff rebate checks and 50-year mortgages to ease cost-of-living issues.
The White House believes Trump is the Republican Party's best spokesman.
Concerns about affordability were central in recent election losses for the GOP.
Trump plans to announce more measures during his travels, with more events planned after New Year's Day.
A young man named Daniel Dana from New York shared his experience of coming out as gay to his father through a viral video. He was initially scared but received a supportive text from his father that included pictures of books about LGBTQ+ parenting. The video gained significant attention online, sparking conversations about parental support.
Key Facts
Daniel Dana is a 25-year-old originally from Geneva, Switzerland, now living in New York City.
He shared a video about coming out to his father, which received over half a million likes on Instagram.
The video included text messages from his father with photos of books about LGBTQ+ parenting.
His father's messages were meaningful because of their conservative background in Switzerland.
Books mentioned include "Always My Child" and "This Is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids."
Dana advises others to come out to a best friend first and use resources like mental-health professionals if needed.
The video aims to encourage parents to support and learn from their children.
A Harvard Youth Poll found that many young Americans feel uncertain about their future due to financial difficulties, political tensions, and the impact of AI. The survey revealed that a majority believe the country is on the wrong track and fear for economic prospects. Concerns about rising costs, job stability, and political dissatisfaction are common among Gen Z.
Key Facts
The Harvard Youth Poll surveyed 2,040 people aged 18-29 in early November.
57% of respondents believe the U.S. is going in the wrong direction.
43% of surveyed young people report financial struggles or limited security.
The majority are worried about AI affecting job prospects, more than immigration or outsourcing.
Inflation is a top concern, with both Republican and Democrat young adults naming it as critical.
President Trump's approval rating among this age group is 29%.
39% think political violence could be acceptable in some situations.
Rising living costs are seen as a political challenge for President Trump.
A survey by Blue Square Alliance Against Hate finds antisemitism in the U.S. has become a persistent issue, with fewer people willing to oppose it over time. The survey shows a decline in the number of people actively standing against antisemitism and an increase in those holding prejudiced views. The research involved over 7,000 U.S. adults and highlights trends since 2023.
Key Facts
Antisemitism in the U.S. has increased since 2023 and remains high, according to a new survey.
The survey shows only 9% of Americans are "allies" who actively stand against antisemitism, down from 15% in 2023.
The proportion of people considered "haters" increased from 6% in 2023 to 10% in 2025.
Nearly half the surveyed Americans believe Jews can "handle antisemitism on their own."
About 27% think Jews "cause problems in the world," up from 19% in 2023.
18% view Jews as a threat to American unity, an increase from 12% in 2023.
The survey involved online responses from 7,028 adults between Aug. 1 and Sept. 30, 2025, with a margin of error of ±0.98 percentage points.
Beliefs in traditional antisemitic stereotypes remain high compared to 2023 levels.
A winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds to multiple states across America. The National Weather Service has issued warnings, advising drivers to be cautious due to potentially dangerous road conditions. The storm will last from Thursday through the weekend, extending into Monday in some areas.
Key Facts
Up to 15 inches of snow is expected in several U.S. states.
States affected include Wyoming, Michigan, New Mexico, New York, Idaho, Colorado, Alaska, Montana, and Utah.
In Wyoming, snow could reach 2 feet in higher areas, with winds up to 65 mph until Sunday.
Michigan could see up to 7 inches of snow with 35 mph winds, affecting visibility.
New Mexico might experience up to 15 inches of snow in higher elevations and icy roads.
New York could get up to 8 inches of snow with blowing conditions.
Idaho might receive up to 13 inches of snow in higher elevations.
Colorado expects between 3 and 8 inches of snow.
Alaska could get up to 15 inches of snow with strong winds until Saturday night.
Montana might experience up to 12 inches of snow with 40 mph winds.
The U.S. House of Representatives is meeting to discuss issues related to the subsidies of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Rising health insurance costs are impacting individuals like Dinam Bigny, who is struggling to afford his premiums.
Key Facts
The House of Representatives is focusing on ACA subsidies.
Dinam Bigny, a program manager in Virginia, is facing high health insurance costs.
Bigny's insurance premiums are nearly $900 per month and will increase by $200 next year.
Due to these costs, Bigny had to take on a roommate to manage debt.
Bigny's emergency savings are almost depleted.
The discussion aims to address financial burdens from rising healthcare costs.
Texas is thinking about starting a program to give every newborn $1,000 in a stock market investment. This plan is inspired by a federal program called "Trump Accounts," set up under President Trump. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick shared the idea and said it would need approval from lawmakers and voters.
Key Facts
Texas plans to introduce $1,000 investment accounts for every newborn in the state.
The initiative is based on a federal program called "Trump Accounts," which was established under President Trump.
The Texas program would require legislation to be passed in 2027 and a constitutional amendment approved by the state's voters.
The plan would cost Texas around $400 million per year.
The federal program offers $1,000 to children born between 2025 and 2028, with restrictions on withdrawals.
Michael and Susan Dell are contributing $6.25 billion to support children not eligible for the federal benefit, offering an extra $250 in some cases.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick hopes to align the Texas program with the federal one, offering a total of $2,000 per child.
Critics, like Texas Policy Research, oppose the idea, saying it increases government involvement and could undermine personal responsibility.
General Dan Caine, a top U.S. military officer, will join Admiral Frank "Mitch" Bradley in a briefing to lawmakers about U.S. military strikes on suspected drug boats. These strikes have raised questions about their legality and oversight, with significant political attention focused on their impact.
Key Facts
General Dan Caine is the top U.S. soldier and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
He will attend a congressional briefing with Admiral Bradley about U.S. strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific.
The U.S. began these strikes on September 2, targeting drug trafficking from South America to the U.S.
More than 80 people have died in these strikes.
Lawmakers are investigating the oversight and legality of these actions.
The first attack led to controversy over a follow-up strike ordered by Admiral Bradley, allegedly based on a directive from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
General Caine is a retired three-star general who has served as an F-16 pilot and as a CIA associate director.
Concerns exist over the legal implications of these military actions both domestically and internationally.
The FBI has arrested a suspect in their investigation of who allegedly placed pipe bombs in Washington, D.C. the day before the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. This is the first arrest related to these particular bombs and took place nearly five years after the incident.
Key Facts
The FBI arrested a suspect connected to pipe bombs found in D.C. on January 5, 2021.
This investigation has been ongoing for almost five years.
This is the first time the FBI has identified a suspect in the pipe bomb case.
The arrest was made on a Thursday morning.
The suspect is a man, according to a law enforcement official.
Details about potential charges against the suspect are not yet available.
The official shared this information anonymously, as they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.
The U.S. "war on drugs" started in 1971 under President Richard Nixon, aiming to reduce drug abuse and trafficking. Over 50 years, the policy has led to high incarceration rates, especially affecting Black communities, and a large amount of money spent with little impact on drug supply or demand. Recently, President Trump has signaled military intentions against Venezuela based on unproven drug trafficking claims.
Key Facts
The "war on drugs" began in 1971 when President Nixon called drug abuse the top public enemy.
Since the policy started, the U.S. has spent over $1 trillion on drug-related efforts.
The approach has significantly increased imprisonment rates, particularly among Black Americans.
Policies in the 1980s, such as the Anti-Drug Abuse Act, led to racial disparities in sentencing.
Overdose deaths have reached high levels, especially due to fentanyl.
Some states have legalized cannabis, showing a shift in drug policy discussions.
The U.S. has been accused of fuelling organized crime in Latin America through drug policies.
President Trump has pointed to possible military action against Venezuela over alleged drug trafficking.
President Trump has spoken critically about Somali Americans as the midterm elections approach. Omar Fateh has commented on this issue, referring to the president's remarks.
Key Facts
President Trump made negative statements about Somali Americans.
These statements were made ahead of the midterm elections.
Omar Fateh has responded to President Trump's remarks.
The situation involves political tensions in the United States.
The topic is relevant to U.S. domestic politics and society.
Oscar-winning actress Halle Berry criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for vetoing the Menopause Care Equity Act, expressing that his actions might make him unsuitable for the presidency. Newsom has not officially announced a presidential run, but he is considered a strong candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination. The Menopause Care Equity Act aimed to improve insurance coverage for menopause treatment and had support from both political parties in California.
Key Facts
Halle Berry criticized Gavin Newsom at the New York Times DealBook Summit.
She was upset about Newsom's veto of the Menopause Care Equity Act twice.
The act required insurance coverage for menopause treatment and education.
Newsom justified his vetoes by citing concerns over costs and implementation.
Newsom is considered a top contender for a future presidential run but hasn't officially announced any plans.
Berry expressed her view that Newsom's veto overlooked issues important to women.
Newsom is currently polling ahead of other Democratic rivals for a potential presidential bid.
