The U.S. Department of Justice released a report showing high rates of sexual abuse in certain prisons. Bedford Hills Correctional Facility in New York has the highest rate, followed by Pontiac Correctional Center in Illinois and Albion Correctional Facility in New York. The findings are based on a survey conducted across various state and federal prisons.
Key Facts
The Department of Justice conducted a survey in 177 federal prisons from March 2023 to March 2024.
The survey found that 4.1% of prison inmates reported sexual victimization in the past year.
Bedford Hills Correctional Facility in New York had the highest reported rate of sexual victimization at 18.6%.
Pontiac Correctional Center in Illinois reported a 15.9% rate, and Albion Correctional Facility in New York reported 15.6%.
A total of 27,541 inmates participated in the survey.
The survey is part of efforts under the 2003 Prison Rape Elimination Act to reduce sexual violence in prisons.
Nine of the 17 prisons with the highest rates were male institutions, while eight were female.
The report comes as the U.S. plans to close a prison in Dublin, California, due to previous abuse issues.
The Trump administration plans to end the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia and stop several family reunification parole programs for migrants from Latin American and Caribbean countries. President Trump's administration is changing immigration policies, affecting many families.
Key Facts
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced these changes.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia will be terminated.
Family reunification programs for various Latin American and Caribbean countries will end.
TPS is a program that allows people from certain countries to stay in the U.S. if it’s unsafe to return home.
Family reunification parole programs help keep immigrant families together in the U.S.
A video of a mother, Mackenzie Brown, tending to her baby at 3 a.m. before heading to work has gone viral. The United States does not offer guaranteed paid maternity leave, but Brown received 16 weeks of paid leave from her employer. The video sparked discussions about work and parenting in the U.S.
Key Facts
Mackenzie Brown shared a video of her caring for her newborn at 3 a.m. and leaving for work three hours later.
The video received over 2.3 million views on TikTok.
Brown works in technology sales and returned to work after 16 weeks of paid maternity leave.
The United States does not have guaranteed paid maternity leave; some workers are eligible for 12 weeks of unpaid leave.
Brown's company offered 16 weeks of paid leave for both mothers and fathers.
The video led to comments about the challenges of balancing work and parenting in the U.S.
Brown received support as well as assumptions and comments about her situation.
Starting next year, American taxpayers who are 65 years and older will be eligible for a new $6,000 tax deduction under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduced by President Donald Trump. This temporary deduction will be available for tax years 2025 through 2028 and is intended to provide financial relief for seniors. It complements existing standard deductions and applies to seniors earning below certain income thresholds.
Key Facts
Seniors aged 65 and older can get a $6,000 tax deduction from 2025 to 2028.
This deduction comes in addition to the existing standard deduction for seniors.
For tax year 2026, the extra standard deduction will be $2,050 for single seniors and $1,650 per spouse for married couples.
The new deduction is for seniors with incomes below $75,000 for individuals or $150,000 for couples.
The deduction is reduced for seniors earning over these amounts and fully phases out at $175,000 for singles and $250,000 for couples.
Seniors can claim this deduction whether they use the standard deduction or itemize their deductions.
The deductions aim to reduce the tax burden on lower-income and moderate-income seniors.
A federal judge has ordered that U.S. immigration authorities cannot re-detain Kilmar Abrego Garcia without a hearing. The judge's order came shortly after his release from a detention center, amid concerns that he might be quickly taken back into custody.
Key Facts
A federal judge ruled against the re-detention of Kilmar Abrego Garcia without a hearing.
Abrego Garcia was initially released from a detention center in Pennsylvania.
The judge issued the order because of concerns that Abrego Garcia might be detained again soon after his release.
Abrego Garcia had a scheduled appointment at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office.
After the appointment, he was allowed to leave and was greeted by supporters outside.
His lawyers had filed an urgent request to prevent ICE from re-detaining him.
Abrego Garcia spoke to the crowd, encouraging others to oppose what he called government injustices.
Indiana lawmakers did not approve a plan to add two more Republican congressional seats, which was part of President Trump's effort to gain more Republican seats. This decision affects the larger strategy of redrawing voting districts, known as redistricting, which could influence the 2026 midterm elections. Despite the setback in Indiana, Republicans are likely to gain a few more seats in other states.
Key Facts
Indiana lawmakers rejected a proposal to create two new Republican congressional districts.
This decision impacts President Trump's redistricting strategy aimed at gaining more GOP seats.
Redistricting efforts are mostly set in six states including Texas and California.
In these states, Republicans may gain between one and four seats.
Florida and Virginia could become new battlegrounds for redistricting efforts.
Indiana's proposal was rejected despite strong pressure from President Trump and GOP leaders.
Republican hopes hinge on possibly flipping five Latino-majority districts in Texas.
House Speaker Mike Johnson remains optimistic about overall GOP chances despite challenges.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has released new guidance about airline responsibilities during flight disruptions. The DOT states airlines don't have to cover passenger expenses like meals or hotels when flight cancellations result from aircraft recalls not within the airline's control. This change affects how airlines handle customer service commitments.
Key Facts
The DOT's new guidance says airlines aren't required to cover expenses for issues from aircraft recalls.
The guidance considers aircraft recalls as not within the airline's control.
Airlines can be held accountable if they don't follow their service plans during controllable disruptions.
The guidance was published in the Federal Register.
Different airlines have their own policies for compensating passengers during controllable disruptions.
A recent FAA emergency directive required urgent updates on Airbus A320 planes for safety.
This directive was due to a safety issue with the plane's computer that could affect flight safety.
President Trump's administration proposed other travel-related changes, like social media history disclosures for foreign visitors.
Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich expressed concern that if the U.S. economy does not improve before the midterms, Republicans could lose control of Congress. Recent election results show significant Democratic victories, and polling indicates declining approval for President Trump, particularly regarding economic management.
Key Facts
Newt Gingrich, a Republican, warns that a weak economy could hurt GOP chances in upcoming midterms.
Republicans currently hold a narrow majority in the House with 220 seats to Democrats' 213.
Republicans have a slight advantage in the Senate, holding 53 seats to Democrats' 47.
Democrats achieved major wins in recent mayoral and gubernatorial elections in New York City, Miami, Virginia, and New Jersey.
President Trump's approval rating has decreased, especially concerning economic policies.
Inflation, a key concern, remains above the Federal Reserve's target.
The GOP strategy includes cutting spending and regulations to boost the economy.
House Oversight Democrats have shared new photos from Jeffrey Epstein's estate that include President Donald Trump. The images bring attention back to Epstein's connections with powerful figures. The Justice Department is working to release all investigation files related to Epstein by December 19.
Key Facts
House Oversight Democrats released new photos of President Trump from Jeffrey Epstein's estate.
95,000 new images were received from the Epstein estate.
The photos renew focus on Epstein's ties with influential people, including Trump.
The Justice Department has a deadline of December 19 to release all Epstein investigation files.
President Trump has denied any wrongdoing or knowledge of Epstein's criminal activities.
An 11-month-old Chihuahua puppy named Hero was left at a shelter in California with no information about his background. Initially frightened and snapping at people, Hero was comforted by a staff member and quickly gained trust. He was adopted soon after thanks to the efforts of the shelter staff and the popularity of a video about him online.
Key Facts
The Chihuahua puppy is named Hero and is 11 months old.
Hero was left at a shelter overnight with no information.
The shelter, Animal Friends of the Valleys, is located in Wildomar, California.
Staff member Phil gained Hero's trust by being gentle and patient.
A video of Hero's story on Instagram gained nearly 45,000 likes.
Hero was adopted the day after his adoption plea was shared online.
Animal Friends of the Valleys helps transport animals across the U.S. for adoption.
In 2024, about 5.8 million dogs and cats entered U.S. shelters, with 4.2 million being adopted.
President Donald Trump received negative results from a new poll about the economy. The survey showed many Americans are spending less due to high prices, and only a small percentage approve of how Trump is managing economic issues.
Key Facts
A new poll from the Associated Press-NORC Center reported that only 31% of Americans approve of President Trump's handling of the economy.
Nearly nine out of ten adults noted higher grocery prices, and many also saw increased costs for electricity and holiday gifts.
48% of poll participants reported buying fewer non-essential items than usual.
Lower-income individuals, especially those earning under $50,000 annually, are more likely to delay big purchases.
Two-thirds of people describe the national economy as poor despite some improvement in inflation.
Around four in ten Americans expect the economy to worsen in 2026 compared to 2025.
President Trump has started a national tour to promote confidence in the economy ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Representative Delia Ramirez has asked for the resignation or impeachment of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem due to alleged misconduct in handling immigration policies. Ramirez claims Noem has misled Congress and mishandled resources, leading to violations of citizens' rights. The situation reflects ongoing disputes over immigration policy and accountability in the U.S. government.
Key Facts
Representative Delia Ramirez, a Democrat, wants DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to resign or face impeachment.
Ramirez accuses Noem of misleading Congress and misusing resources.
Noem is charged with disregarding legal limits and detaining U.S. citizens.
President Donald Trump and White House officials support Noem, dismissing rumors of her replacement.
Noem defends DHS actions, stating they follow federal law and focus on border security.
Impeachment proceedings are considered unlikely due to Republican control of the House.
Ramirez's actions highlight divisions over immigration policy in the U.S. government.
Democrats have filed impeachment articles against Trump and other officials.
A protest called "Free America" is planned by the feminist group Women's March on January 20, 2026, marking the first anniversary of President Donald Trump's second term. The protest aims to oppose policies they associate with increased misogyny, racism, and xenophobia under Trump's administration. Similar protests have been held across the U.S. and internationally to express disagreement with Trump’s policies.
Key Facts
The protest is organized by Women's March and is scheduled for January 20, 2026.
It marks the first anniversary of Trump's second term in office.
Organizers describe their movement as walking away from fascism.
Previous protests have criticized the Trump administration's approach to ICE, local policing, and perceived authoritarianism.
Protests have been coordinated globally, including in Germany, Portugal, Sweden, the UK, and the Czech Republic.
Other protests against President Trump's policies are planned for the future.
Past protests have coincided with significant dates, such as Memorial Day and Flag Day in the U.S.
Refuse Fascism plans another protest around the White House on December 13.
A new bill suggests limiting U.S. Supreme Court justices to 18-year terms, with new appointments made every two years. Representative Mike Levin supports this proposal, which aims to bring consistency and reduce political influence in the Court.
Key Facts
The proposed bill aims to set 18-year term limits for Supreme Court justices.
A new justice would be appointed every two years under this plan.
Representative Mike Levin, a California Republican, announced his support for the bill.
Term limits aim to create balance, predictability, and end strategic retirements.
The bill allows justices to serve as senior judges after their term ends.
Levin notes that many states already use term limits or reappointments for their top courts.
The proposal seeks to modernize the Court while keeping judicial independence intact.
Jerome Powell, head of the Federal Reserve, talked about concerns regarding the "K-shaped" U.S. economy, where wealthier Americans are doing well financially, while lower-income citizens are struggling. Powell also mentioned possible inaccuracies in job growth data due to a lack of updated information from government surveys. The Federal Reserve has recently lowered interest rates to stimulate economic activity.
Key Facts
Jerome Powell is the chair of the Federal Reserve.
A "K-shaped" economy means wealthier people are financially improving, while lower-income individuals are facing challenges.
Spending by lower-income households increased only 0.6% in September, compared to 2.6% for higher-income households.
Powell expressed doubts about how long the "K-shaped" economic trend can last.
There may be inaccuracies in job market data because surveys were not completed during a government shutdown.
Powell warned that the current available data might overstate job creation.
The Federal Reserve cut interest rates to the lowest in three years, to support the economy.
President Donald Trump has criticized Jerome Powell for not making larger cuts in interest rates.
President Donald Trump's administration plans to require some visitors to the United States to share their social media history from the past five years. This rule will affect travelers from countries part of the Visa Waiver Program, who usually do not need a visa to enter the US. The changes aim to increase security measures by enhancing the background check process.
Key Facts
The US will ask some travelers to provide social media history from the last five years.
This proposal was announced by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
The change affects travelers using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Program.
The program allows citizens of 42 countries to visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa.
The proposal is linked to Executive Order 14161, signed by President Trump for national security reasons.
Visitors won’t have to provide passwords, just their social media handles or usernames.
Public has 60 days to comment on the proposal before it is finalized.
The requirement extends from similar rules for travelers from non-Visa Waiver Program countries since 2019.
The Trump administration has changed coin designs for the U.S.'s 250th anniversary, originally created during Biden's administration. The new designs focus on key moments in American history rather than themes like civil rights and the abolition of slavery.
Key Facts
The Trump administration scrapped coin designs that highlighted civil rights and the abolition of slavery.
The new coin designs will celebrate moments like the Mayflower Compact and the Gettysburg Address.
The coins are part of the U.S.’s 250th-anniversary celebration.
The original designs were developed by the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee and approved by President Biden's Treasury Secretary.
The scrapped designs featured images linked to civil rights and women’s suffrage.
The new designs were influenced by the Trump administration’s initiative to focus on prosperity and patriotism.
The new coins are expected to enter circulation in 2026.
President Donald Trump's administration has ordered national parks to remove certain items from their gift shops that are seen as supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The Interior Department issued a memo requiring all National Park Service units to review and comply with this directive by December 19. The move is part of a wider government effort to limit DEI programs.
Key Facts
President Trump ordered national parks to remove items promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
National parks have until December 19 to review gift shop items for compliance.
The directive follows Executive Orders signed by Trump aimed at ending certain DEI programs.
Memo SO 3416 requires national parks to halt activities related to DEI and similar initiatives.
The Interior Department says the goal is to focus on preserving resources without promoting specific viewpoints.
The National Parks Conservation Association expressed concern over the impact on education and park staff.
AAA has provided guidance on the best and worst times to drive during the Christmas holiday to avoid heavy traffic. A record 122.4 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during this period. Congestion is anticipated to be highest the weekend before Christmas and during midday to early evening hours.
Key Facts
122.4 million Americans will likely travel at least 50 miles for the holidays.
This is a 2.2% increase compared to last year and the highest on record.
Roads are expected to be busiest the weekend before Christmas, especially on interstates.
The worst travel times are generally midday to early evening, while the best are early morning or late at night.
Holidays like Christmas Day and New Year’s Day usually have lighter traffic.
INRIX forecasts key congested routes, with some seeing travel times more than double.
Most holiday travelers, about 109.5 million, will travel by car.
December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, and AAA advises safe driving.
A Maryland judge ruled that immigration officials cannot re-detain Kilmar Abrego Garcia until a court hearing is held. Abrego Garcia had been released after a previous court decision found no legal basis for his detention. His case has gained attention due to increased immigration enforcement under President Trump.
Key Facts
A federal judge in Maryland has stopped immigration officials from re-detaining Kilmar Abrego Garcia.
Abrego Garcia was released from detention after a court ruling said his earlier detention had no legal basis.
The judge's order ensures that he remains free until there is a court hearing on a temporary restraining order.
Abrego Garcia's case is notable amid aggressive immigration policies by the Trump administration.
He was mistakenly deported to El Salvador earlier this year and held in a prison there before returning to the U.S.
During a previous ICE check-in in August, Abrego Garcia was also detained.
Supporters gathered as he spoke to reporters, expressing hope and a commitment to challenge his treatment legally.
