President Donald Trump's approval rating is at 41%, with 50% disapproving, according to a new poll by Emerson College Polling. This gives him a net approval rating of -9 percentage points as 2025 ends. The poll surveyed 1,000 voters and had a margin of error of +/- 3 percentage points.
Key Facts
Emerson College Polling found 41% approve and 50% disapprove of President Trump's job performance.
President Trump ends 2025 with a net approval rating of -9 percentage points.
The poll was conducted between December 14-15, 2025, with a margin of error of +/- 3 percentage points.
Another poll by I&I/TIPP showed a net approval rating of -3 percentage points for Trump.
Morning Consult found Trump has a net approval rating above water in 22 states.
Trump's approval rating has increased from a low of -15 percentage points in November to -11, according to pollster Nate Silver.
Critics cite economic issues and handling of various policies for the low approval rating.
The Republican Party holds a slim majority in the U.S. House and Senate, which could be affected by the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.
New York is set to become the largest U.S. state to allow assisted dying. The Medical Aid in Dying Act, announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, will permit terminally ill residents to request life-ending medication. The law, expected to be enacted six months after being signed in January, includes several safety measures.
Key Facts
New York will allow assisted dying for terminally ill individuals with six months or less to live.
Governor Kathy Hochul reached an agreement with legislative leaders to pass the Medical Aid in Dying Act.
The law includes safeguards such as a five-day waiting period and mental health evaluations.
Patients must request the medication orally, with requests recorded via video or audio.
Initial evaluations must be done in person by physicians, and only New York residents are eligible.
Religious providers can choose not to participate, and violations of the law will be considered professional misconduct.
New York will join twelve other states and the District of Columbia in allowing similar measures.
The article discusses the rising cost of living in the United States and President Donald Trump's actions to reduce prices. Ethan Baker talks about these economic challenges and the president's attempts to address them.
Key Facts
The cost of living in the United States is increasing.
President Donald Trump is trying to lower prices.
Ethan Baker is commenting on these economic issues.
The focus is on efforts to manage economic difficulties.
The article addresses domestic economic challenges in the U.S.
A photo shoot by Vanity Fair featuring close-up images of President Trump's White House staff has sparked reactions online. Photographer Christopher Anderson aimed to capture real, unedited portraits, leading to debate about the limitations of AI in art. Some argue it highlights the importance of real photography, while others feel the portrayal was unfair to the administration.
Key Facts
Vanity Fair published a photo shoot of President Trump's White House staff.
Photographer Christopher Anderson took close-up pictures showing unedited details.
The photos include notable figures like Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The photo series sparked online discussions about the capability of AI in art.
Some commenters argue AI cannot replicate the artistry of real photography.
White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles described the piece as a "hit piece."
Secretary Rubio claimed the images and article were manipulated to make the staff look bad.
The use of AI is growing, with the market expected to reach over $800 billion by 2030.
President Donald Trump announced that inflation had stopped, but new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows a 2.7% increase in the Consumer Price Index over the past year. This is lower than previous months but still higher than the 2% target set by the Federal Reserve.
Key Facts
President Trump stated his administration is quickly reducing high prices.
The latest Consumer Price Index shows a 2.7% inflation rate for the past year.
This marks a decrease from September's 3% inflation rate.
October's inflation data was not released due to a government shutdown.
Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, is at 2.6%.
Energy prices rose 4.2%, and the food prices increased by 2.6% in the last year.
Electricity costs grew by 6.9%, and gas utility prices increased by 9.1%.
Prices for items like dairy, fresh fruits, and vegetables decreased, while coffee and beef prices rose by 18.8% and 15.8%, respectively.
The United States Postal Service plans to release a special Forever stamp on January 24, 2026, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Colorado's statehood. The stamp will feature a photograph by the late John Fielder and will be unveiled at an event in Denver. People can purchase the stamp and related products online and at select locations.
Key Facts
The USPS will release a Forever stamp on January 24, 2026, to mark Colorado's 150th anniversary of statehood.
The stamp shows a landscape photo of Jagged Mountain by John Fielder, a respected Colorado nature photographer.
The unveiling event will occur at the History Colorado Center in Denver, and is free to attend.
Amber F. McReynolds, the chairwoman of the USPS Board of Governors, will lead the unveiling ceremony.
John Fielder's collection, which he donated to the History Colorado Center in 2023, will be exhibited on the same date.
People can buy the stamp and related products online at the USPS Postal Store, by phone, mail, or at select post office locations.
President Donald Trump delivered a 19-minute state-of-the-nation address focusing on immigration, economic promises, and healthcare costs. He blamed immigrants for economic issues, promised an economic boost by 2026, and addressed lowering drug prices through new agreements. Democrats criticized his claims and his approach to the economy and affordability concerns.
Key Facts
President Trump delivered the address without major new announcements.
He blamed immigrants for the U.S. housing crisis and economic problems.
Trump promised an economic boom in 2026 and mentioned changes in Federal Reserve leadership.
Current Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's term ends in May 2026.
Trump's approval rating on the economy is low, with concerns over cost of living.
He proposed lowering prescription drug prices through his new website, TrumpRx.
Critics, including Democrats, challenged his statements and handling of key issues.
Former White House adviser Karl Rove has warned that the Republican Party might face a big defeat in the 2026 midterm elections if President Donald Trump doesn't improve his approval ratings, especially on the economy. Surveys show many Americans disapprove of Trump's handling of economic issues like inflation, which might affect the GOP's chances in the upcoming elections.
Key Facts
Karl Rove, a former adviser, warned about potential losses for Republicans in the 2026 midterm elections.
President Trump's approval ratings on the economy are low, with many Americans disapproving.
According to one survey, around 62.8% of people are unhappy with Trump’s handling of inflation.
Rove mentioned that Trump’s public appearances might hurt his image because they distract from economic issues.
Many Americans are worried about their financial situation and the country's economic outlook.
The administration claims to be reducing costs, but inflation is still higher than the Federal Reserve's goal.
Rove compared Trump’s handling of the situation to previous President Joe Biden’s approach.
Democrats have focused on affordability issues in recent elections, which could impact GOP success.
The U.S. Department of State has released the January 2026 Visa Bulletin with new cut-off dates for green card applicants. Some family and employment-based categories, particularly from Mexico and India, have seen advancements. These changes affect when applicants can apply for or receive approval for green cards.
Key Facts
The Visa Bulletin for January 2026 has been released with new dates for green card applications.
Mexico saw significant advancements in family-based categories, with F1 and F2B moving forward by six months.
India’s EB-5 Unreserved category in the employment-based section progressed by over two years.
These changes impact the wait times for U.S. immigrant families and workers.
"Final Action Dates" determine when a green card case can be approved.
"Dates for Filing" indicate when you can submit your green card application.
Family-based green card categories for countries like India and China remained mostly unchanged.
Advancements help reduce waiting times for specific groups, affecting personal and professional planning.
The White House made a typo in an online post about President Trump and Joe Biden. The post compared the number of undocumented immigrants entering the U.S. during their terms, but the mistake in wording caused mixed reactions on social media.
Key Facts
The typo appeared on a post from the official White House account on the platform X.
The post compared immigration numbers under President Trump and former President Joe Biden.
It mistakenly used the word "iilegal" instead of "illegal."
The post received over 1.1 million views and was liked over 46,000 times.
Some comments praised Trump, while others mocked the typo.
Key figures like Congressman Mark Harris and Senator John Boozman commented in support of Trump.
Social media responses were divided, with some users focusing on the typo and others on the immigration message.
Millions of Americans might see their health insurance premiums rise significantly if the current subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) expire. The House passed a Republican health care plan to replace current ACA subsidies with different policies, but it is uncertain if the Senate will approve it. If the subsidies expire, premiums could increase by 75%, affecting many people's ability to afford coverage.
Key Facts
House Republicans passed a bill offering an alternative to ACA subsidies.
The bill proposes to extend association health plans and fund cost-sharing reductions.
If subsidies expire, ACA premiums may increase by around 75%.
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) predicts 4 million Americans could lose coverage.
The bill passed the House by a narrow vote of 216-211.
The Senate's approval of the bill is uncertain.
Representative Thomas Massie was the only Republican to vote against the bill.
House Speaker Mike Johnson promised a vote on the subsidies in early January.
The article discusses a personal experience of using a weight-loss drug known as GLP-1, which changes how the person thinks about food without requiring traditional efforts like exercise or dieting. The person expresses mixed feelings about their new body shape, concerns over physical changes like loose skin, and reflects on the impact of their past experiences with obesity.
Key Facts
The person uses a medication called GLP-1 that affects their relationship with food.
They feel they obsess less about eating since starting the medication.
Despite losing weight, they feel they did not earn the weight loss through effort.
They notice physical changes such as loose skin and shifted tattoos.
The person acknowledges a level of guilt due to the privilege of affording the drug.
Their partner expresses concerns about rapid physical changes.
They reflect on past experiences of being teased and doctor visits focusing solely on weight.
Vice President JD Vance and Donald Trump Jr. expressed their belief that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies discriminate against white men. President Trump has made policy changes targeting DEI programs, sparking debate and legal challenges. An article shared by Vance claims that DEI policies harm career opportunities for white male millennials.
Key Facts
JD Vance and Donald Trump Jr. shared views opposing DEI policies, suggesting they target white men.
President Trump has enacted changes removing DEI initiatives, which have generated controversy.
A Compact magazine article titled "The Lost Generation" argues that DEI policies harm white male millennials in various industries.
Interviewed individuals in the article preferred to remain anonymous due to concerns about their career prospects.
President Trump’s administration has cut funding for DEI and taken other actions against DEI measures.
Vance claims some Democratic leaders only view racial discrimination against white men as acceptable.
Political Science Professor Scott Lucas criticized Vance’s views as attempts to gain power through regressive policies.
The debate around DEI continues as Trump may introduce more policy changes in his current term.
President Donald Trump plans to sign a new defense bill that has recently been approved by the Senate. The bill sets defense policy for the next year and places restrictions on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. It also includes measures related to U.S. military presence in Europe and financial provisions for military programs.
Key Facts
President Trump is set to sign a defense bill approved by the Senate.
The bill outlines Pentagon policies for the upcoming fiscal year.
It imposes restrictions on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, including requiring him to release footage of U.S. strikes near Venezuela.
The bill limits reducing U.S. troop numbers in Europe and retains the NATO Supreme Commander position for the U.S.
It withholds part of Hegseth's travel budget until specific footage is provided to lawmakers.
The document budgets over $900 billion and includes nearly a 4% pay raise for U.S. military personnel.
There is financial support included for Ukraine and a program to help Baltic states acquire U.S. military equipment.
The bill reflects a critical stance toward Russia, contrasting with a recent National Security Strategy document.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris criticized new plaques added by President Trump at the White House that comment on former presidents. These plaques, placed under presidential portraits, contain negative remarks about some past Democratic presidents. The addition has sparked reactions, with some defending them and others criticizing their tone.
Key Facts
Kamala Harris criticized plaques added by President Trump at the White House.
The plaques contain negative comments about former Democratic presidents like Joe Biden and Barack Obama.
President Trump added these plaques beneath portraits of past presidents in a White House gallery.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump wrote many of the plaque descriptions himself.
Harris highlighted economic concerns like rising food prices and unemployment during her criticism of Trump.
Trump delivered a speech blaming Democrats for current economic challenges.
Harris accused Trump of trying to distract people from important issues by focusing on sensational topics.
Trump received criticism for comments following the deaths of director Rob Reiner and his wife.
A federal judge temporarily blocked ICE from enforcing rules that required congressional members to give advance notice before visiting immigration detention centers. This decision supports Congress's oversight role and limits ICE's control over access to these facilities.
Key Facts
A U.S. District Judge stopped ICE from enforcing a rule that needed seven days' notice before visits.
ICE's rule was challenged because it might violate federal laws about congressional oversight.
The decision upholds Congress's right to visit detention centers without prior notice.
The legal challenge was brought by Democratic members of Congress.
ICE's policy was seen as a barrier to effective oversight.
The ruling emphasizes the importance of unannounced visits for transparency.
Section 527, a funding law, supports Congress's right to access these facilities.
The plaintiffs argued that delayed visits do not allow for accurate inspections of conditions.
Susie Wiles, the White House Chief of Staff, gave interviews to Vanity Fair, discussing various figures including President Donald Trump and others in his administration. Despite controversial comments made by Wiles, the Trump administration has publicly supported her. The article highlights the influence and dynamics within President Trump's circle.
Key Facts
Susie Wiles is the White House Chief of Staff under President Donald Trump.
Wiles participated in 11 interviews with Vanity Fair's Chris Whipple.
She described President Trump as having an "alcoholic's personality."
Wiles called Vice President JD Vance a long-time "conspiracy theorist."
Elon Musk was described by Wiles as an "odd duck" and "ketamine user."
Despite these comments, the Trump administration has rallied in support of Wiles.
Chris Whipple, the interviewer, confirmed all statements were recorded.
The report discusses internal power dynamics within President Trump's team.
President Donald Trump mentioned a plan to boost electricity supply to support America's growth in artificial intelligence (AI). Rising power costs and demands from increased AI usage are affecting electricity bills, and lawmakers are examining who will bear these costs. The government aims to speed up energy projects to meet demand, but debates continue over funding and regulation.
Key Facts
President Trump talked about increasing electricity to support AI growth during an end-of-year speech.
The PJM power market serves 65 million people and faced record high pricing in a recent reliability auction for 2027-28.
Rising electricity demand, partly due to data centers, is causing higher monthly electric bills.
Senate Democrats are investigating if regular Americans are subsidizing power costs for large tech companies.
The government's AI Action Plan intends to speed up energy projects needed by data centers.
Some tech companies are developing their own power sources due to slow grid expansion.
Electricity demand in the U.S. is increasing, especially in relation to data centers, leading to higher capacity costs.
New regulations are being considered to standardize and quicken the process of connecting large electricity loads like data centers.
President Donald Trump announced that U.S. military service members will receive checks called the "Warrior Dividend" worth $1,776 each. The payments, totaling $2.6 billion, aim to honor America's founding and will be distributed to eligible military members before Christmas.
Key Facts
President Trump announced $1,776 "Warrior Dividend" checks for U.S. military members.
The checks are meant to celebrate the nation's founding in 1776.
The total cost of the payments is $2.6 billion.
Money will be allocated as a one-time housing allowance supplement.
Approximately 1.28 million active-duty troops and 174,000 reserve members will receive the checks.
Funding comes from tariff revenues and a bill signed on July 4.
The payments are for service members in pay grade O-6 and below.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem shared holiday photos from a visit with President Donald Trump, drawing attention online for including both filtered and unfiltered versions of the same photo. Meanwhile, Noem faces accusations from Congresswoman Delia Ramirez of misusing resources and misleading the public, which Noem denies. President Trump expressed his support for Noem amid these developments.
Key Facts
Kristi Noem visited President Donald Trump and shared photos from the visit on Instagram and Threads.
Among the shared photos were both filtered and unfiltered versions of the same picture, causing online speculation.
The post included family photos, featuring Noem and her infant granddaughter.
Congresswoman Delia Ramirez accused Noem of misleading Congress and misusing resources at DHS.
Ramirez called for Noem to resign or face impeachment, and requested an investigation into her leadership.
Noem denied the accusations, stating DHS enforces the law under President Trump's leadership.
The photos received significant attention, with over 29,000 views and 8,000 likes but no official comment from Noem on the photo edits.
President Trump publicly supported Noem, calling her "fantastic."
