The FBI arrested Brian Cole Jr., a Virginia bail bondsman, for placing pipe bombs near the Republican and Democratic National Committee headquarters just before the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. His arrest ended years of conspiracy theories about the incident, as evidence collected in 2021 and 2022 helped identify him. People previously accused law enforcement of covering up the real story, but the arrest proves the thorough work done by investigators.
Key Facts
The FBI arrested Brian Cole Jr. for planting bombs outside the RNC and DNC headquarters on January 5, 2021.
The incident happened the night before the Capitol riot, which tried to stop the 2020 election certification.
Evidence that identified Cole was gathered between 2021 and 2022.
The arrest counters conspiracy theories claiming FBI involvement in the January 6 events.
The FBI used credit card records, subpoenas, and phone data to identify Cole.
Brian Cole Jr. is linked to "extremist" beliefs, but his exact motives remain unclear.
False claims about another person being the bomber were debunked, as video evidence cleared her of involvement.
Public figures spread misinformation, demanding proof or apologies for their statements after the arrest.
President Donald Trump faced challenges during his term due to his efforts to replace experienced government workers with less experienced loyalists. This led to several poorly executed policies and legal mishaps. Key initiatives, such as tariffs and legal charges, failed due to oversight and competence issues.
Key Facts
President Trump wanted to remove experienced officials, called the "Deep State," from government agencies.
He replaced these officials with loyal supporters, who often lacked the necessary skills.
This led to poorly planned economic policies, such as tariffs that caused problems and had to be reversed.
Legal cases Trump wanted to pursue failed because unqualified appointees mishandled them.
There were efforts to speed up infrastructure projects by bypassing usual reviews, causing more delays.
Attempts to reallocate government resources and change agency structures resulted in confusion and failure.
Anti-diversity orders were so badly written that they ended up causing legal issues instead of achieving their goals.
A recent poll shows that a larger number of voters who supported President Donald Trump in 2024 do not want him to run for a third term compared to those who do. The U.S. Constitution limits presidents to two terms, making a third term impossible. Trump's approval ratings have been declining according to several polls.
Key Facts
A poll by The Economist/YouGov found 45% of Trump voters do not want him to run for a third term, while 43% do.
The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution limits any president to two terms.
A broader poll of U.S. adults showed 39% approval for Trump's job, while 58% disapproved.
Trump's net approval is at a low, with some polls showing it at -19 percentage points.
A different poll by I&I/TIPP shows a slightly better net approval at -3 percentage points.
President Trump indicated he might not run again and mentioned potential successors like JD Vance and Marco Rubio.
The FBI has arrested Brian Cole Jr., a 30-year-old resident of Virginia, for allegedly planting bombs outside the Republican and Democratic National Committees in January 2021. The arrest is significant because federal investigators had been searching for the suspect for almost five years. He faces charges related to transporting and planting explosive devices.
Key Facts
Brian Cole Jr., 30, was arrested at his home in Woodbridge, Virginia.
He is accused of placing bombs outside the RNC and DNC headquarters on January 5, 2021.
The bombs did not explode.
Cole has been charged with transporting an explosive with the intent to harm or intimidate.
The FBI used bank records, phone records, and video footage to identify Cole.
Neighbors describe him as a quiet individual who often kept to himself.
Cole's height and gait may be critical evidence linking him to the crime.
The Trump administration prioritized this investigation, leading to Cole’s arrest.
The Minnesota Senate race showcases a major competition between two Democrats, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan and U.S. Representative Angie Craig, reflecting broader divisions within the Democratic Party. Flanagan represents the progressive side, focusing on small donations, while Craig represents moderates, accepting larger corporate donations to challenge Republican opponents.
Key Facts
The Minnesota Senate race highlights a split in the Democratic Party between progressives and moderates.
Peggy Flanagan is running as a progressive candidate, emphasizing small-dollar donations.
Angie Craig is running as a moderate and has raised more money through corporate donations.
The race shows broader debates on campaign finance, including the impact of the Citizens United ruling.
Minnesota has historically voted Democratic in presidential elections, but state control is currently divided.
Craig argues she can appeal to a broad range of voters, citing her success in a previously Republican-held district.
Flanagan believes her approach is bolder and necessary for the party's future direction.
Authorities in San Diego found human remains at a home where Dwight Rhone, a person of interest in the case and already charged with a separate murder, once lived. Rhone's family is divided in their opinions about his character, with his brother describing him negatively, while his niece defends him. The investigation might connect to unsolved cases and involves multiple law enforcement agencies.
Key Facts
Human remains were discovered at a home in San Diego's Southcrest neighborhood.
Dwight Rhone, who previously lived there, is a person of interest in the investigation.
Rhone is already in custody for charges related to a separate murder from 2023.
His brother labeled him as having a troubled past, including drug issues and criminal activity.
His niece, however, described him as a supportive figure in her life.
A multiagency investigation is underway, including local, state, and federal law enforcement.
The case could potentially link to other cold cases and unsolved deaths.
Rhone's next court hearing related to the separate murder charge is scheduled for December.
A federal grand jury decided not to bring new charges against New York Attorney General Letitia James. This decision follows an earlier rejection by a judge of related charges, which involved a case linked to President Donald Trump. Prosecutors are considering trying to bring another indictment against James.
Key Facts
A federal grand jury declined to recharge New York Attorney General Letitia James.
An earlier case against James was dismissed by a judge because of an illegally appointed prosecutor.
President Trump had previously vowed action against James after her office filed a fraud case against him.
James described the charges as politically motivated.
Federal prosecutors might still seek to present a new indictment.
Trump was ordered to pay $450 million for a separate fraud case, which an appeals court later dismissed.
James is one of several high-profile figures opposing Trump who faced federal charges recently.
Similar cases against James Comey and John Bolton have also faced legal challenges and dismissals.
A federal grand jury chose not to reindict New York Attorney General Letitia James on charges of bank fraud and making false statements. This marks the second time prosecutors have decided not to move forward with this case. James expressed gratitude and maintained that the charges were unfounded.
Key Facts
Letitia James is the New York Attorney General.
A federal grand jury did not reindict James on bank fraud and false statement charges.
This is the second time prosecutors have not moved forward with these charges.
A federal judge previously dismissed an earlier indictment because a prosecutor was unlawfully appointed.
James stated the charges are without basis and expressed thanks for national support.
The case's status is uncertain, but prosecutors could potentially seek another indictment.
Jon Slavet, a tech entrepreneur from Silicon Valley, announced he will run for governor of California in the 2026 election. California will elect a new governor in November 2026 since current governor Gavin Newsom cannot run again due to term limits. Slavet aims to use his business background to address issues like high electricity bills and housing shortages in the state.
Key Facts
Jon Slavet is a tech entrepreneur running for governor of California in 2026.
California is set to elect a new governor because Gavin Newsom, the current governor, is term-limited.
The state's primary election is a jungle primary, meaning all candidates run on one ballot regardless of party.
Slavet believes his experience as a CEO and problem-solver would benefit the state.
He founded companies, including Guru.com and Sentral.com, contributing to the gig economy.
Slavet supports President Donald Trump and values his endorsement.
He plans to focus on reducing energy costs and increasing housing with private sector help.
The primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026.
Thousands of people in California have been told to stay indoors because of unhealthy air quality. The air around the Lassen National Forest is in the "unhealthy" range, which can cause health problems, especially for those with breathing issues.
Key Facts
The air quality in parts of California is labeled "unhealthy" by the Air Quality Index (AQI).
The affected area includes towns like Greenville and Quincy in Lassen County.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides the AQI to show air pollution levels, which range from 0 to 500.
When air is "unhealthy" (151-200), sensitive groups may have serious health problems.
People with respiratory illnesses are more at risk and are advised to limit their outdoor activities.
The general public is also advised to reduce outdoor time and take steps to minimize exposure.
California Governor Gavin Newsom responded to criticism from actress Halle Berry about vetoing a bill related to menopause care. Newsom explained that the veto was due to potential increased healthcare costs for many families. He also mentioned plans to address this issue in the upcoming state budget.
Key Facts
Halle Berry criticized Governor Newsom for vetoing a bill to extend insurance for menopause care.
Berry expressed that Newsom should not be president due to his decision.
Newsom stated he has admiration for Berry's advocacy.
He vetoed the bill to avoid raising healthcare costs for families.
Newsom plans to work on the issue in the next state budget.
Newsom's team is in discussions with Berry's representatives.
Immigration enforcement has intensified in New Orleans as part of President Trump's new operation called "Catahoula Crunch." The operation led to the arrest of individuals suspected of being in the U.S. illegally, causing fear among local communities, especially those with Latino residents.
Key Facts
A new immigration enforcement operation called "Catahoula Crunch" is underway in New Orleans.
DHS agents attempted to arrest two laborers who ended up on a roof to avoid capture.
The operation in New Orleans is the fourth major city targeted under President Trump's immigration crackdown.
DHS reported arrests of dozens of individuals with prior criminal arrests or convictions during the operation.
Border Patrol aims to make about 5,000 arrests in New Orleans, focusing on people with criminal backgrounds.
The Latino community in Kenner, a New Orleans suburb, is experiencing fear and is mostly staying indoors.
Local restaurant owner Abigail expressed concerns about the safety of her family amid the raids.
The U.S. Supreme Court decided Texas can use a new congressional district map for the 2026 elections. The map has sparked controversy because it is designed to give an advantage to Republicans. The decision could lead to more states changing their district maps in favor of one political party.
Key Facts
The U.S. Supreme Court allowed Texas to use a newly drawn district map for the 2026 midterm elections.
The court's conservative justices supported the decision, while the liberal justices opposed it.
A lower court had previously blocked the map, citing racial gerrymandering concerns.
Texas appealed, arguing that campaigning had already started and the map was needed.
Gerrymandering involves drawing district lines to favor one political party.
President Trump encouraged Texas to create a map favoring Republicans.
Texas currently has 38 House seats, with 25 held by Republicans.
Other states, like Missouri and North Carolina, have also passed partisan maps recently.
An appeals court has temporarily allowed President Donald Trump to keep the National Guard in Washington, DC. This follows a previous order requiring their removal, which is now on hold as the case is reviewed.
Key Facts
A U.S. appeals court paused an order that required the withdrawal of the National Guard from Washington, DC.
This decision allows the Trump administration to keep the troops in place while the court reviews the situation.
The National Guard in DC is part of an anti-crime initiative by the Trump administration.
President Trump faced legal challenges for deploying the National Guard in cities like Los Angeles, Portland, and Chicago without local requests.
A lower court initially ruled that deploying the National Guard for non-military tasks without local requests was against the law.
The appeals court stressed that their decision to pause does not mean a final decision on the case.
Recently, two National Guard members were shot in DC, with one dying from the injuries.
Authorities charged a suspect, leading to the announcement of more National Guard deployments to DC.
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump lit the National Christmas Tree at the White House Ellipse to start the holiday season. The tree, a 35-foot red spruce, is from Virginia's George Washington and Jefferson National Forest and will be open for the public to view starting December 6.
Key Facts
President Trump and First Lady Melania lit the National Christmas Tree.
The tree lighting event took place at the White House Ellipse.
The tree is a 35-foot red spruce from Virginia.
The tree comes from the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest.
A federal grand jury in Virginia decided not to indict New York Attorney General Letitia James after a previous case against her was dismissed. The charges were related to allegations of bank fraud and making false statements, which James claimed were politically motivated. The grand jury's decision marked a setback in President Trump's efforts to prosecute political adversaries.
Key Facts
A federal grand jury did not indict New York Attorney General Letitia James in Virginia.
The grand jury's decision came after a judge dismissed an earlier case against her.
James faced allegations of committing bank fraud and making false statements to a financial institution.
James argued that the charges were politically motivated.
A judge previously dismissed federal cases against both James and ex-FBI Director James Comey.
Dismissal with prejudice means the government could potentially pursue the same charges again.
It is rare for grand juries to reject a prosecutor's request to indict; in 2016, only six out of over 150,000 cases were not indicted.
President Donald Trump has chosen a new architect, Shalom Baranes Associates, to lead the construction of a large ballroom at the White House. The previous architect, James McCrery, has left the main role but will stay as a consultant. The ballroom is designed to accommodate up to 1,350 guests, with planning and funding details still underway.
Key Facts
President Trump has hired Shalom Baranes Associates to design a new White House ballroom.
The ballroom project expanded to fit up to 1,350 guests.
James McCrery, the previous architect, is now a consultant on the project.
The East Wing was demolished in October to make room for the ballroom.
The ballroom project is fully funded by President Trump and donors.
The National Capital Planning Commission must approve the construction plan.
Some groups and political opponents have criticized the project.
Senator Richard Blumenthal introduced a bill to prevent similar demolitions without approval.
The US Supreme Court has allowed Texas to use new voting maps for the 2026 midterm elections. This decision overturns a lower court's ruling that blocked the maps, which were signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott.
Key Facts
The Supreme Court approved the use of new voting maps in Texas for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.
Texas filed an emergency request after a lower court blocked the new maps.
The maps were passed by the Texas state legislature and signed into law by Republican Governor Greg Abbott in August.
The Supreme Court's decision was made with a 6-3 vote.
Three liberal justices disagreed with the majority decision.
The lower court argued the maps were "racially gerrymandered."
Democrat lawmakers in Texas previously left the state to delay voting on the maps.
The decision may help the Republican party maintain their majority in the elections.
A new poll by the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School shows that young Americans feel economically insecure and have low trust in political and economic systems. Most young people doubt the U.S. is on the right track and have negative views of major political parties and institutions. The poll indicates declining faith in democracy and capitalism among the youth.
Key Facts
The poll surveyed 2,040 young Americans aged 18 to 29 from November 3-7.
Only 13% believe the U.S. is headed in the right direction.
43% of young people report financial struggles or limited security.
30% expect to be financially better off than their parents.
President Trump has a 29% approval rating among young people.
Congressional Democrats and Republicans both have low approval ratings, at 27% and 26%, respectively.
Faith in capitalism among young Americans is at 39%, down from 45% in 2020.
64% view the U.S. as a democracy in trouble or failed, with only 32% seeing it positively.
The New York Times has sued the Pentagon over new rules that restrict media access. The newspaper claims the rules violate freedom of speech and due process rights under the First Amendment. They argue that these rules allow the Pentagon to limit which reporters can cover military news.
Key Facts
The New York Times filed a lawsuit against the Pentagon in a U.S. District Court.
The newspaper argues the rules violate the First Amendment by restricting freedom of speech and press.
The rules give Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth the authority to decide if a reporter should be banned.
Some media outlets have moved out of the Pentagon instead of agreeing to the new rules.
The rules claim to allow the Pentagon to remove reporters if they pose a "security or safety risk".
The Pentagon states the rules are "common sense" to protect the military from dangerous information leaks.
The Pentagon Press Association supports the New York Times' efforts to defend press freedom.
