The Department of Defense's Inspector General reported that U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth used a personal messaging app, Signal, to send sensitive nonpublic information about military operations. The report stated that while no classified information was shared, this use of a personal device violated specific DoD guidelines. Despite this, the Pentagon spokesperson said that the review exonerates Secretary Hegseth of wrongdoing.
Key Facts
The report was released by the Department of Defense's Inspector General.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth used the Signal app to send sensitive data.
The data included details about planned U.S. military strikes in Yemen.
The messages were sent on Hegseth's personal cell phone.
No classified information was shared, according to the Pentagon spokesperson.
The Pentagon considers the case closed and Secretary Hegseth exonerated.
The Inspector General found the use of a personal phone for official business violated DoD instructions.
The issue remains relevant due to other recent strikes and scrutiny on Hegseth's actions.
Two churches in the United States have used Nativity scenes to comment on immigration policies, sparking public reaction. The displays aim to highlight concerns with how immigration enforcement impacts families, especially under President Trump's administration.
Key Facts
Lake Street Church in Illinois created a Nativity scene showing baby Jesus with zip ties, symbolizing challenges faced by migrants.
Rev. Michael Woolf from Lake Street Church criticized immigration enforcement and was arrested during a protest at an ICE facility.
St. Susanna Parish in Massachusetts displayed an empty manger with signs saying "ICE Was Here."
Church leaders argue these displays highlight parallels between biblical stories and current immigration issues.
St. Susanna Parish has supported resettling 10 refugee families since 2018.
The Nativity displays have received both support and criticism from the public.
President Trump’s administration has increased immigration enforcement, raising concerns about deportations affecting families.
New York City buses will soon have civilian fare inspectors checking if passengers have paid their fare after boarding. This change is to address bus fare evasion, which cost the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) hundreds of millions of dollars in 2024.
Key Facts
The MTA will require passengers on New York City buses to show proof of fare payment after boarding.
Civilian fare inspectors, not police, will check tickets, similar to systems in some European cities.
Bus fare evasion cost the MTA about $568 million in 2024.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) is currently focused on subway fare evasion.
The MTA has already caught over 370 fare evaders on selected high-evasion routes since introducing inspection teams.
The rise in fare evasion is linked to relaxed rules during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The new fare enforcement will start once the OMNY contactless payment system is fully implemented by 2026.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced recalls for several children's products sold on Amazon due to safety hazards. These products include dressers, tumblers, cubes, and writing tablets that pose risks such as choking, ingestion, and tip-over hazards. Consumers are advised to stop using these products immediately and seek refunds or replacements.
Key Facts
The Casaottima 13-Drawer Dressers are recalled due to the risk of tip-over and entrapment, especially if not anchored to the wall, affecting around 4,120 units.
The HydroJug 14-ounce Children’s Sport Tumblers have a detachable handle that could pose a choking hazard for children, with about 17,000 units sold.
The CreateOn Crayola-branded pip-Cubes contain magnets that could become loose, leading to ingestion risks, with approximately 9,400 units recalled.
KTEBO Writing Tablet Toy has been recalled because its battery is not secure, posing a risk of ingestion and chemical burns, affecting about 10,380 units.
Consumers are advised to stop using these products immediately and follow the instructions for returns and refunds as provided by manufacturers.
No injuries have been reported for any of the recalled products at the time of reporting.
The recalls involve products from manufacturers such as Ningbo Xinsuda Trading Co., Ltd., HydroJug, Inc., CreateOn, and Banghe Guangzhou International Trade Co., Ltd.
The recall date for all mentioned products is December 4, 2025.
The U.S. Institute of Peace has been renamed after President Donald Trump. This change happened while there is an ongoing legal battle about who controls the institute.
Key Facts
The Trump administration renamed the U.S. Institute of Peace to the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace.
The president's name is now on the organization's headquarters.
There is a court case about who has control of the U.S. Institute of Peace.
The organization is a nonprofit think tank focused on peace initiatives.
It was targeted earlier this year by the Department of Government Efficiency.
The State Department announced the renaming to honor President Trump as a significant dealmaker.
The building is located near the State Department in Washington, D.C.
A woman wearing medical scrubs was taken out of her car by federal immigration agents in Key Largo, Florida. She claimed to be a U.S. citizen during the incident. After verifying her identity, authorities released her.
Key Facts
The incident happened on U.S. Route 1 in Key Largo, Florida.
The woman was removed from her car by immigration agents, including ICE and CBP officers.
She shouted that she was a U.S. citizen while being detained.
Authorities briefly detained her to verify her identity and released her once confirmed.
The operation was part of an immigration enforcement effort involving multiple federal agencies.
The operation led to the arrest of 14 individuals in the U.S. illegally, some with criminal records.
A CBP spokesperson stated she was driving her boyfriend's car and initially refused to identify herself.
The FBI arrested Brian Cole in connection with two pipe bombs placed in Washington, D.C., on January 5, 2021. These bombs were found and made safe before they could explode. The investigation aimed to identify the person responsible using video footage.
Key Facts
The FBI arrested a suspect named Brian Cole.
Cole is linked to pipe bombs found in Washington, D.C.
The bombs were placed on January 5, 2021.
They were near the Democratic and Republican national committee offices.
The bombs did not explode and were made safe.
The investigation used video surveillance to find the suspect.
The arrest is part of a lengthy investigation starting from the events before the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021.
Justice Democrats, a progressive group, endorsed Melat Kiros to challenge Representative Diana DeGette in Colorado's primary election. This endorsement is part of a broader effort to support progressive candidates against Democratic incumbents in the upcoming elections. The group's actions reflect growing frustration with current Democratic leadership amid President Donald Trump's second term.
Key Facts
Justice Democrats endorsed Melat Kiros in Colorado's First Congressional District against Representative Diana DeGette.
This is Justice Democrats' sixth endorsement for the upcoming midterm elections.
The group aims to increase its influence by supporting progressive challengers.
The endoresement came after Kiros was reportedly fired for defending protests supporting Palestinians.
Other endorsed candidates include Angela Gonzales-Torres in California, Donavan McKinney in Michigan, Darializa Avila Chevalier in New York, and Justice Pearson in Tennessee.
Former Representative Cori Bush, seeking re-election in St. Louis, has also been backed by the group.
Some Democrats facing primary challenges have chosen to retire instead of running again.
The frustration with Democratic leaders is partly due to perceived inadequate responses to President Trump's administration.
ICE arrests have increased significantly under President Trump's second term, with the agency aiming for high daily arrest numbers. Despite not reaching the target of 3,000 arrests per day, ICE has been arresting more undocumented immigrants compared to previous years. The increase includes arrests of individuals without criminal records, leading to some legal challenges.
Key Facts
ICE arrests have risen since the start of President Trump's second term.
The government aimed for 3,000 arrests per day but has not reached that number.
ICE's recent daily arrest average is about 1,100 people.
Data shows ICE arrested 821 people per day between January 20 and October 15.
Homeland Security claims an average of 1,800 arrests per day.
Agencies assisting ICE include Border Patrol, the Secret Service, and others.
Arrests include individuals without criminal convictions, a shift from the previous administration.
Legal challenges have arisen, with judges ordering the release of some arrested individuals.
A Colorado mom named Melissa Dawson shared her views on how physical education (P.E.) is taught in schools, sparking a debate online. Dawson believes that P.E. often associates movement with negative experiences like humiliation and competition instead of joy and lifelong fitness. Her ideas for a more inclusive P.E. approach have gained significant attention and support on social media.
Key Facts
Melissa Dawson is a Colorado mom who spoke out about her experiences with physical education in schools.
She believes traditional P.E. focuses too much on competition and can be humiliating for nonathletic kids.
Dawson suggests offering more diverse and inclusive activities like yoga, dance, and hiking in P.E. classes.
Her post has gained over 45,000 likes and shares on Threads, indicating strong public interest.
Some schools are already offering non-competitive fitness options, like yoga and running.
Many commenters shared similar negative experiences with school P.E. activities.
Dawson's suggestions emphasize choice and enjoyment in physical activity.
Federal grants for libraries and museums in the United States, which had been cut following an executive order from President Donald Trump, have been reinstated. This decision follows a court ruling that found the cuts were not lawful, confirming that Congress has authority over deciding federal funding.
Key Facts
The American Library Association announced that federal funding for libraries and museums was reinstated.
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) had its grants cut following an executive order from President Trump.
Attorneys general from 21 states sued, arguing that only Congress can decide federal spending.
A federal court ruled the cuts unlawful and required the immediate reinstatement of grants.
This ruling affects all U.S. states and territories and overturns the attempt to dismantle IMLS funding.
IMLS provides grants to libraries and museums, crucial for programs like literacy and job assistance.
In 2024, IMLS allocated $266.7 million in grants, a small portion of the federal budget.
The American Library Association and others consider this grant reinstatement a significant victory.
President Trump plans to travel across the United States to promote his economic plans before the midterm elections. This move comes in response to criticism about rising living costs and aims to improve his approval rating and help the Republican Party retain control of the House. His efforts will start with an appearance in Pennsylvania, where he will highlight his economic achievements and propose new measures.
Key Facts
President Trump will begin a nationwide tour to support his economic agenda.
The travel plan starts next week in northeastern Pennsylvania.
The focus is on addressing criticism about the cost of living and rising prices.
Trump aims to improve his approval rating and help Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections.
He has suggested ideas like $2,000 tariff rebate checks and 50-year mortgages to ease cost-of-living issues.
The White House believes Trump is the Republican Party's best spokesman.
Concerns about affordability were central in recent election losses for the GOP.
Trump plans to announce more measures during his travels, with more events planned after New Year's Day.
A young man named Daniel Dana from New York shared his experience of coming out as gay to his father through a viral video. He was initially scared but received a supportive text from his father that included pictures of books about LGBTQ+ parenting. The video gained significant attention online, sparking conversations about parental support.
Key Facts
Daniel Dana is a 25-year-old originally from Geneva, Switzerland, now living in New York City.
He shared a video about coming out to his father, which received over half a million likes on Instagram.
The video included text messages from his father with photos of books about LGBTQ+ parenting.
His father's messages were meaningful because of their conservative background in Switzerland.
Books mentioned include "Always My Child" and "This Is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids."
Dana advises others to come out to a best friend first and use resources like mental-health professionals if needed.
The video aims to encourage parents to support and learn from their children.
A Harvard Youth Poll found that many young Americans feel uncertain about their future due to financial difficulties, political tensions, and the impact of AI. The survey revealed that a majority believe the country is on the wrong track and fear for economic prospects. Concerns about rising costs, job stability, and political dissatisfaction are common among Gen Z.
Key Facts
The Harvard Youth Poll surveyed 2,040 people aged 18-29 in early November.
57% of respondents believe the U.S. is going in the wrong direction.
43% of surveyed young people report financial struggles or limited security.
The majority are worried about AI affecting job prospects, more than immigration or outsourcing.
Inflation is a top concern, with both Republican and Democrat young adults naming it as critical.
President Trump's approval rating among this age group is 29%.
39% think political violence could be acceptable in some situations.
Rising living costs are seen as a political challenge for President Trump.
A survey by Blue Square Alliance Against Hate finds antisemitism in the U.S. has become a persistent issue, with fewer people willing to oppose it over time. The survey shows a decline in the number of people actively standing against antisemitism and an increase in those holding prejudiced views. The research involved over 7,000 U.S. adults and highlights trends since 2023.
Key Facts
Antisemitism in the U.S. has increased since 2023 and remains high, according to a new survey.
The survey shows only 9% of Americans are "allies" who actively stand against antisemitism, down from 15% in 2023.
The proportion of people considered "haters" increased from 6% in 2023 to 10% in 2025.
Nearly half the surveyed Americans believe Jews can "handle antisemitism on their own."
About 27% think Jews "cause problems in the world," up from 19% in 2023.
18% view Jews as a threat to American unity, an increase from 12% in 2023.
The survey involved online responses from 7,028 adults between Aug. 1 and Sept. 30, 2025, with a margin of error of ±0.98 percentage points.
Beliefs in traditional antisemitic stereotypes remain high compared to 2023 levels.
A winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds to multiple states across America. The National Weather Service has issued warnings, advising drivers to be cautious due to potentially dangerous road conditions. The storm will last from Thursday through the weekend, extending into Monday in some areas.
Key Facts
Up to 15 inches of snow is expected in several U.S. states.
States affected include Wyoming, Michigan, New Mexico, New York, Idaho, Colorado, Alaska, Montana, and Utah.
In Wyoming, snow could reach 2 feet in higher areas, with winds up to 65 mph until Sunday.
Michigan could see up to 7 inches of snow with 35 mph winds, affecting visibility.
New Mexico might experience up to 15 inches of snow in higher elevations and icy roads.
New York could get up to 8 inches of snow with blowing conditions.
Idaho might receive up to 13 inches of snow in higher elevations.
Colorado expects between 3 and 8 inches of snow.
Alaska could get up to 15 inches of snow with strong winds until Saturday night.
Montana might experience up to 12 inches of snow with 40 mph winds.
The U.S. House of Representatives is meeting to discuss issues related to the subsidies of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Rising health insurance costs are impacting individuals like Dinam Bigny, who is struggling to afford his premiums.
Key Facts
The House of Representatives is focusing on ACA subsidies.
Dinam Bigny, a program manager in Virginia, is facing high health insurance costs.
Bigny's insurance premiums are nearly $900 per month and will increase by $200 next year.
Due to these costs, Bigny had to take on a roommate to manage debt.
Bigny's emergency savings are almost depleted.
The discussion aims to address financial burdens from rising healthcare costs.
Texas is thinking about starting a program to give every newborn $1,000 in a stock market investment. This plan is inspired by a federal program called "Trump Accounts," set up under President Trump. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick shared the idea and said it would need approval from lawmakers and voters.
Key Facts
Texas plans to introduce $1,000 investment accounts for every newborn in the state.
The initiative is based on a federal program called "Trump Accounts," which was established under President Trump.
The Texas program would require legislation to be passed in 2027 and a constitutional amendment approved by the state's voters.
The plan would cost Texas around $400 million per year.
The federal program offers $1,000 to children born between 2025 and 2028, with restrictions on withdrawals.
Michael and Susan Dell are contributing $6.25 billion to support children not eligible for the federal benefit, offering an extra $250 in some cases.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick hopes to align the Texas program with the federal one, offering a total of $2,000 per child.
Critics, like Texas Policy Research, oppose the idea, saying it increases government involvement and could undermine personal responsibility.
General Dan Caine, a top U.S. military officer, will join Admiral Frank "Mitch" Bradley in a briefing to lawmakers about U.S. military strikes on suspected drug boats. These strikes have raised questions about their legality and oversight, with significant political attention focused on their impact.
Key Facts
General Dan Caine is the top U.S. soldier and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
He will attend a congressional briefing with Admiral Bradley about U.S. strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and Pacific.
The U.S. began these strikes on September 2, targeting drug trafficking from South America to the U.S.
More than 80 people have died in these strikes.
Lawmakers are investigating the oversight and legality of these actions.
The first attack led to controversy over a follow-up strike ordered by Admiral Bradley, allegedly based on a directive from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
General Caine is a retired three-star general who has served as an F-16 pilot and as a CIA associate director.
Concerns exist over the legal implications of these military actions both domestically and internationally.
The FBI has arrested a man named Brian Cole in connection with pipe bombs placed outside the Republican and Democratic national party headquarters in Washington, D.C., on January 5, 2021. These bombs were linked to the events surrounding the Capitol riot. The arrest is the first major development in this long-running investigation.
Key Facts
The FBI arrested Brian Cole related to pipe bombs found in Washington, D.C., on January 5, 2021.
The bombs were placed outside the headquarters of the Republican and Democratic national parties.
No one was injured because law enforcement rendered the bombs safe.
The investigation had puzzled authorities for nearly five years.
Brian Cole lived in Woodbridge, Virginia, a suburb of Washington, D.C.
The arrest is significant as it's the first time a suspect has been identified in this case.
The FBI had struggled to identify the suspect despite extensive investigations and public appeals.
