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.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) has warned that mail and package deliveries might be delayed in 15 states because of severe winter weather. The affected areas include parts of the Northern Plains, Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, Pacific Northwest, and Northeastern United States.
Key Facts
USPS issued delivery warnings due to severe winter weather in 15 states.
The regions affected include the Northern Plains, Great Lakes, Ohio Valley, Pacific Northwest, and Northeastern United States.
USPS service may be delayed because of heavy snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and flooding.
The holiday season increases mail volumes, making these disruptions particularly impactful.
Flooding in Washington state and strong winds in the Pacific Northwest contribute to these challenges.
The National Weather Service warned of dangerous wind chills and temperatures significantly below normal.
USPS advises checking the Mail Service Disruptions website for updates on mail delivery and Post Office status.
Kilmar Abrego Garcia, involved in a prominent immigration case under President Trump's policies, has been released from detention on a judge's order and returned to Maryland. The judge ruled that Garcia's previous detention had no legal basis, leading to his release while he continues to fight deportation. The Department of Homeland Security plans to appeal the judge's decision.
Key Facts
Kilmar Abrego Garcia was released from U.S. immigration detention by order of a judge.
He returned to Maryland, where he has an American wife and children.
Garcia had previously been deported to El Salvador but was ordered back to the U.S.
He has been living in Maryland for years under protected legal status.
The Department of Homeland Security plans to appeal the judge’s order, calling it "judicial activism."
Garcia's lawyer anticipates ongoing legal battles against further deportation.
Charges of human smuggling related to a 2022 incident have been filed against Garcia.
Garcia's legal team claims the government's deportation actions are punitive due to the attention his case received.
President Donald Trump announced the White House ballroom project will be completed in about a year and a half, before the end of his second term. The privately-funded project, costing $300 million, involves demolishing and rebuilding part of the East Wing. Some oppose the project, but the Trump Administration supports it as an important addition.
Key Facts
President Trump said the ballroom will be done in about a year and a half.
This project is the first major change to the Executive Mansion since 1948.
The initial size was set at 90,000 square feet, but it will now be twice as large.
The cost increased from an estimated $200 million to $300 million.
Funding comes from private sources, with no government money involved.
Donors include companies like Apple, Comcast Corporation, and T-Mobile.
Several groups and Democrats have criticized the project.
The White House plans to submit final design plans by the end of December 2025.
The Trump administration agreed to a legal settlement to provide student debt relief to eligible borrowers. This agreement follows a lawsuit initiated by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and requires the administration to comply with existing federal laws about student debt relief programs.
Key Facts
The Trump administration settled a lawsuit with the AFT for student debt relief.
Millions of borrowers will receive debt relief under this legal agreement.
The settlement requires the administration to follow federal laws on student debt programs.
Debt relief includes canceling loans for eligible borrowers in income-driven repayment plans.
Corey Mason, a teacher in Connecticut, is an example of a borrower who received debt relief after participating in the lawsuit.
The agreement impacts those eligible for loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
Eligible borrowers will avoid unexpected taxes on forgiven debt.
The resolution includes processing backlogged applications for income-driven repayment and PSLF.
Musicians are objecting to the use of their songs in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) videos shared on social media. These clips show ICE operations soundtracked by popular songs, which artists say are being used against their beliefs. The White House and ICE spokespersons have defended the use of the music, stressing their focus on enforcing immigration laws.
Key Facts
Several musicians have protested ICE's use of their music in immigration enforcement videos.
The videos often feature arrests with popular songs in the background.
Artists like SZA, Sabrina Carpenter, Joey Valence & Brae, and Olivia Rodrigo spoke against their music being used for such purposes.
SZA criticized the government for using her song "Big Boys" in a December 2025 video.
Sabrina Carpenter condemned the use of her song "Juno" and criticized the government.
The video using Carpenter's music was later removed.
Joey Valence & Brae's song "Hooligang" was used in ICE recruitment videos, which was later disabled after a copyright report.
Olivia Rodrigo protested the use of her song in a video promoting "self-deportation."
Veterans who receive benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can expect their payments for January 2026 to be delivered on January 30. These benefits help millions of veterans who have service-related disabilities, as well as eligible family members through various VA programs. The amount of each monthly payment depends on the veteran's disability rating and whether they have dependents.
Key Facts
VA benefits for January 2026 will be paid on January 30.
Around 6.5 million veterans receive tax-free disability compensation from the VA.
Payments are also available to eligible surviving family members, like spouses and children.
Two other benefits follow the same schedule: Veterans and Survivors Pension, and VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).
Disability ratings, starting at 10 percent, determine the amount of monthly benefits.
Base payments begin at $175.51 for a 10 percent disability rating and can go up to $4,544.23 for a 100 percent rating with dependents.
Disabilities include physical and mental health conditions linked to military service.
Common conditions include back pain, PTSD, hearing loss, and conditions from toxic exposure.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings and watches for a major winter storm affecting 19 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. Some areas could see up to 30 inches of snow, leading to travel problems and potential avalanche risks. Alerts are focused mainly on the Rockies, Midwest, Great Lakes, Northeast, and mid-Atlantic areas.
Key Facts
The winter storm may bring up to 30 inches of snow in some places.
Warnings and advisories cover 19 states and Washington, D.C.
Areas at risk include the Rockies, Midwest, Great Lakes, Northeast, and mid-Atlantic.
Avalanche danger is a concern in certain locations due to heavy snow.
In Alaska, high winds and snow are causing hazardous travel conditions.
Kentucky and Indiana are experiencing slick, snow-covered roads affecting travel.
Montana is seeing heavy snow, with some areas at risk for avalanches.
The storm is expected to disrupt travel and daily activities across affected regions.
Recent changes have caused delays for H-1B visa applicants in India as the U.S. has temporarily canceled visa appointments due to operational issues and new policy reviews. H-1B visas allow U.S. companies to hire skilled workers from abroad, and the hold-up is affecting many applicants, especially those needing to travel for their visa interviews.
Key Facts
The H-1B visa allows skilled foreign workers, especially in tech and science, to work temporarily in the U.S.
Each year, 85,000 new H-1B visas are available, with a portion reserved for applicants with U.S. master's degrees.
U.S. consulates in India have canceled or postponed H-1B visa appointments, citing operational challenges.
New procedures include a social media review for applicants and their dependents.
Applicants have been advised against nonessential travel due to appointment uncertainties.
Visa cancellations have caused financial difficulties for those who have already moved or made travel plans.
Changes in policy are part of a broader immigration reform under President Trump's administration.
Affected U.S. consulates include Chennai and Hyderabad, impacting numerous applicants.
The article highlights the importance of getting vaccinated during the holiday season to protect against illnesses like flu, RSV, and COVID-19. Declining vaccination rates in the U.S. increase the risk of severe illness and hospitalization. The former U.S. Surgeon General urges Americans to make informed health choices for themselves and their families this winter.
Key Facts
The U.S. is experiencing declining vaccination rates, increasing the risk of flu, RSV, and COVID-19 during the holiday season.
Cold weather helps these viruses spread more easily, and they mutate to evade existing immunity.
Vaccines have historically been effective, preventing millions of illnesses and medical visits.
Last flu season saw severe cases, with fewer than half of children and 47% of adults vaccinated.
Two-thirds of flu-related hospitalizations involved unvaccinated individuals.
Public trust in health guidance decreased due to shifting recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
There is a call for Americans to trust reliable sources for vaccine information and to prioritize vaccinations.
People involved in the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement are unhappy with how Congress is performing during President Trump's second term. They are particularly disappointed with Republicans in Congress after some voted with Democrats to overturn a Trump executive order and Congress's general legislative productivity. MAGA supporters are concerned this disunity could harm the party's success in the 2026 midterm elections.
Key Facts
MAGA supporters, including influential figures on social media, have criticized Congress as being "weak and compromised."
Some Republicans joined Democrats to overturn an executive order from President Trump, which led to criticism from MAGA supporters.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune rejected President Trump's request to end the blue slip system, which affects judicial appointments.
MAGA supporters are worried about the Republican Party's unity and its impact on future elections.
Prominent figures in the MAGA movement, such as Todd Starnes and Michelle Maxwell, expressed frustration with the GOP's lack of action.
The House of Representatives advanced a bill overturning Trump's order on federal workers' collective bargaining rights, with some Republicans voting for it.
Trump hopes Senate Majority Leader John Thune will change the blue slip procedure, which Thune defends as important for bipartisan input on judicial nominations.
A photo showing President Donald Trump using a walker is circulating online, but it was created using artificial intelligence (AI). The image was shared by a Democratic strategist and is linked to discussions about Trump's recent executive order, which restricts states from making their own AI regulations.
Key Facts
An AI-generated image shows President Trump using a walker.
The photo was posted on social media by Democratic strategist Keith Edwards.
The image was made to comment on Trump’s new executive order on AI regulation.
Trump's executive order limits states from regulating AI on their own.
He argues state-level AI laws would complicate U.S. technological growth.
Critics say the order reduces states' rights and increases tech company power.
The executive order creates a federal group to challenge state AI laws.
A viral image and real executive order were discussed widely online.
President Donald Trump is considering reclassifying marijuana to change its federal regulations. This move would group marijuana with certain prescription drugs, making research easier, but it would not legalize or decriminalize it. Discussions have taken place, but no official decision has been announced.
Key Facts
President Trump is thinking about reclassifying marijuana to ease federal regulations.
This change would shift marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III substance, similar to certain prescription drugs.
The decision would help research on marijuana by reducing some regulatory hurdles.
The change would not make marijuana legal or remove penalties completely.
Trump discussed the idea with various political and industry leaders, but no official announcement has been made.
Some people worry this move could create confusion about the legal status of marijuana.
Polls show many Americans support changing marijuana regulations.
The change could reduce tax burdens on marijuana businesses and make funding easier.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is starting an investigation into Boston's housing policies. The investigation will examine if these policies, which prioritize affordable housing for communities of color, might discriminate against low-income white individuals. This is part of President Trump's broader effort to end policies he views as discriminatory under Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Key Facts
HUD is investigating Boston's housing policies for possible discrimination.
The inquiry focuses on policies helping communities of color but potentially affecting low-income white residents.
President Trump wants to dismantle DEI policies, calling them discriminatory.
The investigation is being conducted under the Civil Rights Act.
Craig W. Trainor from HUD's Fair Housing agency challenged Boston's housing approach.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu has a plan aiming to create more affordable housing and reduce racial disparities.
From 2022 to 2024, Boston saw significant affordable housing construction, with many units being income-restricted.
The city completed or began construction on over 17,000 housing units during Wu’s term.
Starting January 2026, there will be important changes to Social Security. These changes include adjustments to monthly benefits, payroll taxes, and earnings limits for people who work while receiving benefits.
Key Facts
Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits will increase by 2.8% starting January 2026.
The average monthly retirement benefit will go up from $2,015 to $2,071.
The maximum earnings subject to Social Security payroll taxes will increase from $176,100 in 2025 to $184,500 in 2026.
People under full retirement age can earn up to $24,480 in 2026 before their benefits are reduced.
The highest possible monthly Social Security benefit will rise to $5,251 in 2026.
To qualify for the maximum benefit, a person must have a long work history with high earnings and delay claiming benefits until age 70.
President Donald Trump's approval rating among city voters has increased recently. A new poll shows a rise in support from 37% to 43% over one month, along with a significant drop in the strong disapproval rate. Economic concerns and immigration policies are key issues impacting these changes.
Key Facts
President Trump's approval rating among urban voters increased from 37% to 43% between November and December 2025.
Disapproval among city voters decreased from 60% to 53% in the same period.
The "strongly disapprove" rate dropped from 51% to 42% among urban voters.
Economic issues like living costs are the top concern for 36% of Americans.
Recent urban polling suggests Trump's policies on tariffs and immigration may be boosting his urban approval.
A poll was conducted with 1,000 registered voters and has a margin of error of ±3.3 percentage points.
President Donald Trump faces challenges during his second term, with declining approval ratings due to issues like the economy and immigration. Republican leaders and strategists are considering ways for Trump to improve his standing before the 2026 midterm elections. Some suggest focusing on economic issues and moderating immigration policies to regain support.
Key Facts
President Trump won a second term in 2024 but is experiencing difficulties with his agenda.
His approval rating dropped to 36% in a recent Gallup survey.
A government shutdown and Republican disagreement over releasing Epstein files have affected his popularity.
Trump faces criticism over his handling of the economy and immigration.
An AP poll showed only 31% approval for Trump on economic issues.
Republicans are worried about maintaining control in the 2026 midterm elections.
Some suggest Trump focus on economic improvements and affordability to recover his approval.
Republican leaders express mixed opinions, with some urging Trump to adjust his policies, especially regarding economic strategy and immigration.
Flags are flown at half-staff in Kansas, West Virginia, and Wyoming to honor public servants who have recently passed away or been affected in the line of duty. This tradition is a sign of respect and mourning for individuals who have contributed significantly to their communities and country. The decisions to lower flags were made by state governors in response to recent events and losses.
Key Facts
Flags in Kansas are at half-staff to honor Billie Ray "Bill" McCreary, a former state representative and military veteran.
In West Virginia, flags are lowered for Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, who were attacked in Washington, D.C.
Specialist Beckstrom was killed, and Staff Sergeant Wolfe was critically injured in the attack.
The attack on the National Guard members happened near the Farragut West Metro Station in downtown Washington, D.C.
The suspect in the West Virginia attack is an Afghan asylum-seeker.
Wyoming is honoring former State Superintendent Judy Catchpole, who is credited with significant educational reforms.
Flags in Wyoming have been at half-staff since December 4 to honor Catchpole's legacy in education.
A new survey shows that about 40% of Americans doubt Social Security and Medicare will exist in the next decade. Financial pressures threaten these programs, with funds expected to deplete in the next 10-11 years unless Congress makes changes. Younger people express more concern about the programs' future compared to older individuals.
Key Facts
About 110 million U.S. adults (40% of the population) believe Social Security and Medicare may not last another 10 years.
The survey was conducted by West Health–Gallup Center, involving nearly 20,000 participants from all U.S. states.
The Social Security trust funds might run out by 2034, potentially causing a 21% cut in benefits without Congressional action.
Medicare's Hospital Insurance fund could be depleted by 2033, potentially reducing coverage to 89% of scheduled care.
Younger Americans, especially those under 50, are more worried about these programs disappearing.
Political views affect confidence, with Republicans generally more optimistic than Democrats about the programs’ longevity.
A majority of current Medicare and Social Security recipients find these programs very important for their healthcare and finances.
Concerns have increased, with about 60% of adults more worried about changes to these programs than they were a year ago.
