House Democrats and the January 6th Select Committee are holding a hearing to mark the five-year anniversary of the events at the Capitol on January 6, 2021. The day originally involved a protest led by supporters of President Donald Trump after a rally near the White House. There are no official events planned to commemorate the day, and a plaque meant to honor Capitol police has not been installed.
Key Facts
House Democrats and the January 6th Select Committee are conducting a hearing.
The hearing marks five years since the January 6, 2021, events at the Capitol.
On January 6, 2021, President Donald Trump encouraged supporters to protest at the Capitol.
The protest aimed to challenge the certification of the 2020 election results.
The events saw a crowd move to the Capitol, eventually entering the building.
There is no joint agreement by political parties on the interpretation of these events.
A plaque intended to honor police who defended the Capitol has not been placed.
President Donald Trump announced that his administration has started a fraud investigation in California, claiming it is more corrupt than Minnesota. The Trump administration also plans to freeze $10 billion in welfare funds from five Democratic states, including California, due to concerns about potential fraud.
Key Facts
President Trump claims California is more corrupt than Minnesota and announced a fraud investigation of the state.
The investigation is against California, where Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom is in charge.
The Trump administration plans to freeze $10 billion in welfare funding from California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, and New York.
The freeze affects funds from programs like the Child Care Development Fund, the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and the Social Services Block Grant program.
The New York Post first reported the planned freeze, based on information from unnamed officials.
President Trump shared the news article on his social media platform, Truth Social.
A Texas Republican, Representative Monica De La Cruz, plans to discuss with the Trump administration and the U.S. Department of Labor ways to allow some undocumented migrants to work legally in the U.S. construction industry. She suggested creating a visa program similar to the current one for agricultural workers to address labor shortages caused by immigration enforcement in Texas's construction sector.
Key Facts
Representative Monica De La Cruz, a Republican from Edinburg, Texas, is leading the initiative.
De La Cruz aims to establish a legal work program for undocumented migrants specifically for construction jobs.
She intends to propose a new visa similar to the H‑2A visa for agricultural workers but for construction.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions have arrested over 9,100 people in South Texas in the past year.
ICE's immigration enforcement under President Trump's administration has significantly impacted the construction industry's workforce.
The proposal comes amid labor shortages affecting project timelines and costs in the Texas construction sector.
De La Cruz also advocates for reforms in existing worker visa programs that affect agricultural workers.
There is some bipartisan support for creating more legal pathways for migrants to work in various sectors, including construction.
Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota will not run for another term in 2026, citing challenges handling a large fraud scandal. Despite this, Democrats are favored to win the governor's seat in Minnesota according to betting markets, with Republicans having a low chance of success. The outcome of this election could impact political strategies ahead of the national midterm elections.
Key Facts
Democratic Governor Tim Walz will not seek reelection in 2026 due to a fraud crisis in Minnesota.
The fraud involves state programs, allegedly misusing large amounts of taxpayer funds, with losses possibly exceeding $1 billion.
The Republican Party has a low 16% chance of winning the Minnesota governor's seat, according to an online prediction market.
The Democratic candidate is currently favored with an 84% chance to win the election.
The election is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
Potential Democratic candidates include Senator Amy Klobuchar, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Secretary of State Steve Simon.
Possible Republican candidates are House Speaker Lisa Demuth, MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, and businessman Kendall Qualls.
Minnesota has not elected a Republican governor since 2006.
The article compares President Trump's actions toward two political figures. He indicted Nicolás Maduro for drug trafficking and pardoned Juan Orlando Hernandez.
Key Facts
President Trump indicted Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela's leader, for drug trafficking.
An indictment means official charges or accusations.
President Trump pardoned Juan Orlando Hernandez, a former president of Honduras.
A pardon means forgiving someone for their crimes, canceling any punishments.
The article highlights the difference in how Trump handled these two cases.
The CDC has changed its universal childhood vaccine recommendations, removing several vaccines from the list. This change affects vaccines like influenza, hepatitis A and B, and COVID-19, shifting their recommendation to high-risk groups or shared decision-making. All vaccines remain covered by insurance.
Key Facts
The CDC has cut several vaccines from its universal recommendation for children.
Vaccines for influenza, hepatitis A, and B, and COVID-19 are now for high-risk groups or need shared decisions.
The change follows President Trump's directive to review global best practices.
The updated schedule aligns the U.S. closer to international standards.
All vaccines are still available and covered by insurance.
Critics worry this could lead to lower vaccination rates and more preventable illnesses.
The CDC and health agencies are working to educate the public on the new schedule.
Security measures for U.S. lawmakers have significantly increased following the January 6 riots. This enhanced security includes new funding and resources to protect members of Congress both in Washington, D.C., and at their homes, costing over $1 billion. The changes are meant to provide safety without turning the Capitol into a heavily fortified area.
Key Facts
January 6 riots led to increased security measures for U.S. Congress members.
Lawmakers can now receive up to $20,000 monthly for personal security away from the Capitol.
The Residential Security Program allows up to $20,000 for home fortifications and $350 for alarm monitoring.
A new silent panic button app has been introduced for members.
The U.S. Capitol Police opened 9,474 threat-assessment cases in 2024 and may reach 14,000 in 2025.
The FY2026 bill allocates $1.09 billion to protect Congress members, staff, and visitors.
Campaign funds can be used for personal security if threats are linked to one's political status.
About 60% of House members are enrolled in the Residential Security Program as of mid-2025.
Starting in 2026, Californians convicted of DUI will need to install a breath-test device in their cars to prevent drunk driving. This device stops the car from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver's breath. The new rule is part of expanded laws to reduce alcohol-related accidents and is required for all DUI offenders.
Key Facts
Californians convicted of DUI must install a breath-activated device in their cars starting in 2026.
This device, called an ignition interlock device (IID), prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected.
The law is an extension of a previous pilot program and is enforced by Assembly Bill 366.
The goal is to reduce alcohol-related crashes and deaths on California roads.
Judges can no longer use discretion; all DUI offenders must follow this rule to reinstate driving privileges.
The California DMV requires proof of IID installation for reinstating a driver's license after a DUI.
The law comes with stricter penalties for DUI-related offenses, like increased probation for DUI manslaughter.
Law enforcement is boosting efforts to ensure compliance with the IID law starting January 2026.
Immigration agents detained Chong Leng Vue, a 45-year-old man who has lived in the U.S. since infancy, during a routine appointment in Atlanta. He faces deportation due to past criminal convictions, even though he has no ties outside the U.S. His detention is part of a broader deportation campaign under President Trump.
Key Facts
Chong Leng Vue was detained by immigration agents in Atlanta on October 16.
He has lived in the U.S. for 44 years and is originally from Laos.
He was convicted of several offenses, including assault and firearm-related felonies.
An immigration judge ordered his deportation in 2004.
Vue was born in a Thai refugee camp and identifies as stateless.
His family supported the U.S. during the Secret War in Laos.
Vue's wife claims his detention was sudden and unexpected, leaving him unable to say goodbye.
He remains detained at the Stewart Detention Center in Lumpkin, Georgia.
His detention impacts the family financially and emotionally, as he was the sole provider.
The Trump administration is slowly releasing files related to Jeffrey Epstein, a known sex offender. Despite pressure from Congress to be fully transparent, only a small percentage of the documents have been released, with millions still under review. This process may not be complete until after President Trump's current term.
Key Facts
The Justice Department has released 12,285 files about Jeffrey Epstein since December 19.
Over 2 million documents are still under review by the Justice Department.
The process is expected to take more than eight years to complete if all documents are released.
The Epstein Files Transparency Act requires the DOJ to release all unclassified Epstein records.
Documents have been criticized for heavy redactions and for not releasing all information.
More than 400 lawyers are working on reviewing these documents.
Criticism has arisen due to the slow release and lack of full transparency.
The DOJ says the delay is due to the need for redactions to protect victims and national security.
Senator Ruben Gallego introduced an amendment to stop U.S. military action in Greenland by preventing any funding for such operations. This move comes after concerns about possible military interventions following a recent U.S. raid in Venezuela.
Key Facts
Senator Ruben Gallego is from Arizona and represents the Democratic Party.
He proposed an amendment to the U.S. defense spending bill.
The amendment aims to block any U.S. military actions in Greenland.
It seeks to prevent funding for potential operations in Greenland.
The proposal follows a recent U.S. raid in Venezuela.
President Donald Trump is mentioned in the context of military actions.
The article highlights concerns about unnecessary military conflicts.
A winter storm warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for five U.S. states, predicting up to 35 inches of snow and strong winds. The affected states are Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Idaho, and Montana, with the storm expected to cause dangerous travel conditions from January 6 to January 8.
Key Facts
The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning for Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Idaho, and Montana.
Up to 35 inches of snow and high winds are expected from January 6 to January 8.
In parts of Washington, the snowfall could reach rates of one inch per hour with winds up to 45 mph.
Oregon's east slopes could receive up to 35 inches of snow with 45 mph winds.
Alaska's southern regions may face visibility issues due to 60 mph winds and snow.
Idaho could see 18 inches of snow in areas above 3,000 feet.
Montana is forecasted to have up to 18 inches of snow in some areas, making travel difficult.
President Donald Trump announced that his administration has cut $10 billion in funding for child care and social services in five Democratic-led states. The cut is due to concerns about potential misuse of funds, with a focus on recent fraud cases in Minnesota. States affected include California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, and New York.
Key Facts
President Trump cut $10 billion in funding for child care and social services.
The funding cut affects five Democratic-led states: California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, and New York.
The administration's decision was influenced by concerns about fraud, particularly involving programs for undocumented migrants.
The Department of Health and Human Services is freezing funds from several programs, including TANF and the Social Services Block Grant.
Minnesota has been closely examined following a fraud scandal involving daycare centers run by Somali residents.
Officials in Minnesota say the fraud case has turned into a political and cultural issue.
President Trump stated publicly that fraud fears are driving the funding cuts.
Governors from the affected states have been contacted for comments, but as of the time, no responses have been reported.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is reviewing over 2 million documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. Despite a legal deadline that passed two weeks ago, less than 1% of these documents have been reviewed. The DOJ's work on this is ongoing, with many lawyers dedicated to the task.
Key Facts
Over 2 million documents related to Jeffrey Epstein are under DOJ review.
The legal deadline for releasing these documents was December 19, as per the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
So far, only 12,285 documents (less than 1%) have been reviewed by the DOJ.
A letter from top Trump administration officials outlined that the review requires significant work.
Over 400 DOJ lawyers are working on reviewing the documents.
On December 24, the DOJ found an additional 1 million documents.
It is anticipated the review process will take "a few more weeks" due to the large volume.
The DOJ has not provided a specific completion date for the review process.
President Donald Trump's approval rating has increased for the first time in months, according to recent national polls. Despite the rise, his overall disapproval rating still exceeds his approval rating. This change might affect political dynamics ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Key Facts
President Trump's approval rating rose to 42% in a Reuters/Ipsos poll, up from 39% the previous month.
An InsiderAdvantage poll showed a net positive approval rating of 8.4 points for Trump, with 49.5% approval.
Decision Desk HQ's average approval rating for Trump is 43.2%, with disapproval at 53.3%.
Ballotpedia shows a similar approval/disapproval split at 42% and 55%, respectively.
The ratings are an improvement from November 2025 when approval rates were around 41%.
The polls surveyed adults and likely voters, mostly online, with margins of error around 3%.
Police in Columbus, Ohio, have released video footage showing a person of interest near the home of Spencer and Monique Tepe. The couple was found dead from gunshot wounds on December 30. Authorities are asking for the public’s help to identify the individual in the video.
Key Facts
Spencer and Monique Tepe were found dead in their Ohio home on December 30.
The Columbus Division of Police has released video of a "person of interest."
The incident occurred between 2:00 and 5:00 a.m., according to police.
The Tepes’ children were found unharmed at the scene.
The public can provide information to the police via a phone number or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
The couple was discovered after a well-being check by patrol officers.
Medical personnel declared them dead shortly after officers arrived.
Melania Trump has asked a court to dismiss a lawsuit filed by journalist Michael Wolff, claiming she was not properly notified about it. The lawsuit involves allegations connected to Jeffrey Epstein and claims Melania threatened to sue Wolff for over $1 billion if certain statements were not retracted.
Key Facts
Melania Trump is seeking to dismiss a lawsuit from journalist Michael Wolff.
Her legal team argues she was not properly served with the lawsuit papers.
The papers were delivered to a doorman at Trump Tower, not to Melania Trump herself.
The lawsuit concerns statements made by Wolff about Melania Trump and Jeffrey Epstein.
Wolff claims Melania threatened a $1 billion lawsuit over these statements.
Melania Trump may request to transfer the case to southern Florida if not dismissed in New York City.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene introduced a bill to eliminate the H-1B visa program, which helps U.S. companies hire skilled foreign workers. This visa program is mainly used for jobs in technology, engineering, and science. Greene also proposed a bill requiring photo ID and proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections.
Key Facts
A bill was introduced to end the H-1B visa program.
The H-1B visa helps U.S. companies hire skilled foreign workers.
Jobs usually needing H-1B workers are in technology, engineering, and science.
The U.S. issues 85,000 H-1B visas annually.
20,000 of these visas are for workers with advanced degrees from U.S. colleges.
The demand for H-1B visas is high, leading to a lottery each year.
Indian nationals are a large group of H-1B visa recipients.
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also proposed a bill related to voting ID and citizenship proof.
Jimmy Kimmel, a talk-show host, took a "cognitive test" similar to the one President Donald Trump said he had aced. President Trump posted that he has passed this test three times and believes it should be mandatory for presidential candidates. Kimmel joked about the test on his show to highlight its simplicity.
Key Facts
Jimmy Kimmel took a cognitive test on his talk show.
President Trump claimed he aced a cognitive test three times.
Trump posted on a social platform that the White House doctors confirmed his perfect health.
He suggested that all presidential and vice-presidential candidates should take a cognitive test.
Kimmel joked that taking the test wasn't as impressive as Trump thought.
Kimmel invited a doctor to administer the same test to him for fairness.
President Donald Trump's CDC has reduced the number of vaccines recommended for children. This decision has concerned leading medical groups, as vaccination rates are decreasing, and diseases are rising. The American Medical Association criticizes the lack of scientific review and transparency in the policy change.
Key Facts
The CDC, under President Trump, removed recommendations for four vaccines for children: rotavirus, influenza, meningococcal disease, and hepatitis A.
US vaccination rates are falling, and preventable diseases like measles and whooping cough are increasing.
The CDC made the changes without the usual external expert review process.
Secretary of Health Robert F Kennedy Jr., a known vaccine skeptic, approved the changes.
The American Medical Association opposes the decision, citing lack of evidence and transparency.
The changes reflect that children should only receive these vaccines if they are at high risk or if advised by doctors.
States set school vaccine requirements, but CDC recommendations usually influence these decisions.
