New rules from the U.S. Department of Education will make it easier for more people to qualify for student loan payment plans that lower monthly payments. President Donald Trump's changes to the Income-Based Repayment plan remove the need to prove financial hardship, allowing more borrowers to benefit. Other existing student loan repayment plans will be phased out, but a new Repayment Assistance Plan will be available in 2026.
Key Facts
The U.S. Department of Education is finalizing updates to student loan repayment plans.
One major change is removing the requirement to show financial hardship for the Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plan.
Under President Trump's new rules, more borrowers can qualify for lower monthly payments under IBR.
The IBR plan links payments to a percentage of discretionary income and can forgive remaining balances after 20 or 25 years.
President Trump’s plan eliminates the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan and will phase out the Income-Contingent Repayment and Pay As You Earn plans by 2028.
A new Repayment Assistance Plan will be available in July 2026 for loan payments over a longer period (up to 30 years).
Federal student loan amounts for undergraduate studies are now capped, and the GRAD PLUS program is eliminated, restricting some borrowing options.
Only students pursuing professional degrees can borrow up to $50,000 per year.
Lawmakers from both political parties want a review of U.S. military strikes against boats suspected of drug smuggling. They are concerned about a report saying that the Defense Secretary ordered all crew members on a certain boat to be killed in a recent attack.
Key Facts
Lawmakers from both parties support the investigation.
The strikes targeted vessels believed to be smuggling drugs in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean.
A report claims Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth gave a verbal order to kill all crew members during a September 2 attack.
The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, will hold a briefing about the issue.
Lawmakers do not know if the report from The Washington Post is accurate.
Some Republicans are skeptical about the claim in the report.
The attack on survivors of an initial strike raises legal concerns.
Senator Tim Kaine mentioned this situation could be considered a war crime if true.
American politics has seen recurring patterns where each president since Bill Clinton gains and then swiftly loses party control in Congress. This shift, driven by swing voters and electoral volatility, has resulted in frequent changes in government control and challenges in long-term policy implementation. Concerns are rising that Republicans may lose House control even before upcoming midterm elections.
Key Facts
Every U.S. president since Bill Clinton initially gained party control of Congress but lost it within two years.
America has equal parts of voters identifying as Democrats, Republicans, and swing voters.
Only about 10% of House races are truly competitive due to redistricting, which creates strongholds for each party.
Big policy changes take years to impact voters, often longer than the election cycles.
Rising volatility in politics could lead Republicans to lose their current House majority.
A Gallup poll shows only 23% of Republicans approve of Congress, down from previous months.
The U.S. has seen 11 "change elections" where control shifted between parties in 13 election cycles since 2000.
The U.S. Supreme Court has long set limits on when the government can revoke citizenship from naturalized Americans. This process, called denaturalization, is mainly allowed in cases of proven fraud. President Trump’s administration is considering broader criteria, but the Court has traditionally been cautious about expanding these rules.
Key Facts
Denaturalization means revoking someone's citizenship.
The Supreme Court allows denaturalization mainly when fraud is proven in obtaining citizenship.
President Trump's administration wants to expand denaturalization to include other criteria.
The Supreme Court has a history of keeping denaturalization a rare action.
Legal experts say new proposals might conflict with the First Amendment, which protects free speech.
Supreme Court cases since the 1940s have emphasized protecting citizenship as a valuable right.
Historical accounts show over 22,000 people lost citizenship between 1907 and 1967 based on political or loyalty grounds.
The article discusses a prisoner's experiences with the U.S. legal system while incarcerated. It describes how many inmates, including the writer, have had to learn and fight legal battles on their own due to lack of adequate legal support.
Key Facts
The writer began studying law while in solitary confinement to understand and challenge their legal case.
Despite being well-educated, the writer found legal jargon difficult to understand in court.
They received two consecutive life sentences, which the writer believes could have been different with better legal strategies.
In 2005, at New Jersey State Prison, the writer was advised by another inmate to learn law and fight their legal battles independently.
They joined a prisoner-run paralegal group called the Inmate Legal Association and became an uncertified paralegal.
The writer filed several legal motions, winning some initial victories, despite the challenges.
Many prisoners in the U.S. represent themselves in court due to the lack of affordable legal representation; 91% of legal challenges by inmates from 2000 to 2019 were filed pro se.
Access to legal resources and support is limited for prisoners, making legal battles more challenging.
The U.S. government announced two significant changes affecting Green Card holders and applicants. These involve a detailed review of Green Cards from certain countries and new rules requiring biometric data collection from all non-U.S. citizens entering or exiting the country.
Key Facts
President Trump's administration introduced a review of Green Cards issued to citizens from 19 specific countries.
The review follows a security incident involving an Afghan national near the White House.
Countries affected include Afghanistan, Myanmar, Iran, and Yemen, with citizens facing stricter visa rules or entry suspensions.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services paused asylum decisions to review its vetting procedures.
The Department of Homeland Security will require biometric data, like photos and fingerprints, from all non-U.S. citizens starting December 26.
The new rules aim to strengthen national security by improving screening processes.
Individuals from affected countries might face delays and extra requirements for their Green Card applications.
The biometric data collection applies to all travel types and removes previous exemptions.
A study from the University of California, Riverside found that soybean oil, a popular cooking oil in the U.S., might be linked to obesity in mice. Researchers explored how a type of fat in soybean oil, linoleic acid, turns into molecules that could contribute to weight gain. The study suggests more research is needed to understand its effects on human health.
Key Facts
Soybean oil is the most commonly used cooking oil in the U.S.
The study examined the effects of linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid in soybean oil.
Mice fed with a high-fat soybean oil diet showed weight gain.
Linoleic acid turns into molecules called oxylipins, which may cause obesity.
A modified group of mice with different liver genes gained less weight.
American diets have increased linoleic acid consumption significantly over 50 years.
The study suggests more research is needed to understand soybean oil's impact on humans.
Indiana lawmakers are working on redrawing the state's congressional districts to favor Republicans. The state's House supports this plan, but the Senate, also Republican-controlled, has been hesitant. There is uncertainty if the Senate will approve the new district map.
Key Facts
Indiana's congressional district maps are being redrawn.
The goal is to make the districts more favorable to Republicans.
The Indiana House, controlled by Republicans, is ready to pass the plan.
There is resistance in the Republican-led Indiana Senate.
Senate leaders have recently agreed to meet and discuss the issue.
The outcome of the Senate's decision on the new map is unclear.
The article discusses allegations against Minnesota Governor Tim Walz regarding significant welfare fraud in the state. Critics accuse Walz of failing to prevent fraudulent activities involving over $250 million in stolen funds from a child nutrition program. Walz has responded by taking steps to combat fraud and defending his administration's actions.
Key Facts
Governor Tim Walz is accused of failing to prevent welfare fraud in Minnesota.
A scheme called Feeding Our Future led to over 50 convictions and involved more than $250 million in stolen funds.
Walz has taken actions, such as disenrolling 800 Medicaid providers, to combat fraud.
The fraud involves schemes linked to parts of Minnesota's Somali community.
Critics claim that Walz's leadership did not adequately address the fraud issues.
Walz states he is responsible for ensuring those involved are punished and emphasizes not blaming entire communities.
The controversy may affect Walz's bid for reelection and the Democratic Party's performance in future elections.
President Donald Trump announced he will share the results of an MRI scan he took in October. He mentioned the results were "perfect," but did not specify which part of his body was scanned. The White House described the MRI as part of a routine physical exam but did not provide further details.
Key Facts
President Trump plans to release his MRI results from October.
He stated the MRI results were "perfect."
It is unclear which part of the body was scanned by the MRI.
The MRI was part of a routine physical examination.
The White House has not provided specific reasons for the MRI.
Alina Habba, who was once President Donald Trump's personal lawyer, has been disqualified by a court from becoming the top federal prosecutor in New Jersey. The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court’s decision that prevents her from taking the role.
Key Facts
Alina Habba was previously President Trump’s personal lawyer.
The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals made the decision in Philadelphia.
The court's decision supports an earlier ruling by a lower court.
Habba was physically present at the court hearing on October 20.
The administration aimed to appoint Habba as Acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey.
The court released a 32-page opinion explaining the decision.
The opinion mentioned the need for clarity and stability in the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
A federal appeals court decided that Alina Habba, who was once a lawyer for President Donald Trump, cannot serve as New Jersey's top federal prosecutor. The court said that efforts to keep her in the position by the Trump administration were not legal.
Key Facts
A federal appeals court made the ruling on Alina Habba on Monday.
Alina Habba was a former lawyer for President Donald Trump.
The court decided she cannot be New Jersey's top federal prosecutor.
The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals made the decision.
The court's location is in Philadelphia.
The panel of judges said the Trump administration's actions were illegal.
A study by LawnStarter identified Frederick, Maryland, as the top city in the United States for dog owners. The analysis looked at 500 U.S. metropolitan areas, considering factors such as veterinary services, community features for dogs, and overall dog-friendliness. Frederick ranked highest due to its strong support for pet needs.
Key Facts
LawnStarter studied 500 U.S. metropolitan areas to find the best cities for dog owners.
Frederick, Maryland, was ranked as the best city for dog owners.
The company looked at factors like veterinary services, dog parks, and dog-friendly businesses.
Other cities in the top 10 include Asheville, North Carolina, and Scottsdale, Arizona.
New York City also made the list due to its walkable streets and dog amenities.
Factors for ranking included care services, community engagement, business friendliness, housing suitability, and affordability.
Pet ownership statistics show 62% of Americans own a pet, with 49% owning dogs.
The study highlights the importance of city planning in creating dog-friendly environments.
A 19-year-old student from Indiana named Trinity Shockley has been jailed for planning a school shooting, which authorities stopped thanks to a tip to the FBI. She was sentenced to 20 years in prison, with 8 years suspended, and will have 5 years of probation. The FBI got involved after receiving an anonymous tip about her plans.
Key Facts
Trinity Shockley, 19, planned a school shooting at Mooresville High School in Indiana.
She was sentenced to 12 years in jail and 5 years of probation after pleading guilty.
The FBI acted on an anonymous tip from the Sandy Hook Promise 'Say Something' line, which stopped the attack.
Shockley planned the attack for February 14, marked seven years after the Parkland shooting in Florida.
She cited influence from the Parkland attack and had been planning for a year.
She was arrested on February 13 based on charges including conspiracy to commit murder.
Her lawyers stated she suffered from mental health issues and bullying.
The FBI reminds the public to report suspicious activities to prevent harm.
A group of immigration judges, including former judge Carla Espinoza, were recently let go during a series of dismissals under President Trump's administration. The reasons for these firings relate to administrative changes in U.S. immigration policies.
Key Facts
Carla Espinoza is a former U.S. immigration judge.
A wave of immigration judges have been fired recently.
These firings happened during President Trump's administration.
The dismissals are part of broader changes in immigration policy.
Authorities are investigating the motive behind a shooting near the White House where an Afghan man, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, is accused of killing one National Guard member and injuring another. Lakanwal, who came to the U.S. through an evacuation program after working with U.S. forces in Afghanistan, faces charges including first-degree murder. Security in Washington, D.C. is a concern following the incident, and President Trump has deployed more National Guard members to the city.
Key Facts
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, 29, was charged with first-degree murder after a shooting near the White House.
The attack resulted in the death of Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and injury to Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, both part of the West Virginia National Guard.
Lakanwal allegedly drove from Washington state for the attack, using a .357 Smith & Wesson revolver.
He came to the U.S. in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, designed for Afghans who worked with U.S. forces.
Lakanwal's mental health and behavior had raised concerns in his community before the shooting.
President Trump increased National Guard presence in D.C. following this incident.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem suggested Lakanwal might have been radicalized after arriving in the U.S.
The Trump administration has halted asylum decisions and paused Afghan visa issuances in response to the incident.
Police in North Carolina have warned drivers to be careful after finding metal devices that can puncture tires on a road in Macon County. The Macon County Sheriff's Office is investigating to find out who put the devices there and is working with the Department of Transportation to remove them.
Key Facts
Tire-puncture devices were found on a road in Macon County, North Carolina.
The devices are metallic and shaped like arrowheads.
Police say these devices pose a risk to drivers.
The Sheriff's Office is investigating and trying to identify those responsible.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation is involved in removing the devices.
Police are asking the public to share information or dash-camera footage to help with the investigation.
An image of a device lodged in a car tire was shared by the authorities.
Luigi Mangione is facing court charges for allegedly shooting Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, in Manhattan. His defense team is trying to block evidence taken during his arrest. Mangione is also facing a separate federal death penalty case.
Key Facts
Brian Thompson was the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, a major health insurer in the U.S.
He was shot on December 4, 2024, in Manhattan before a meeting.
Luigi Mangione was arrested after a search at a McDonald's in Pennsylvania.
Items found in Mangione's backpack included a gun, a magazine, bullets, and writings he allegedly authored.
His writings reportedly show his intent to target the health insurance industry.
Prosecutors claim the gun is the same one used in the shooting.
Mangione's defense claims the search and seizure of evidence were illegal.
A federal death penalty case against Mangione is also underway.
A man shared online that his sister asked him for $30 after inviting him and his girlfriend to a Thanksgiving meal at her house. There was no mention of a cost when the invitation was made. Online comments criticized this request and said it was rude to ask for money after the event.
Key Facts
A man received a $30 payment request from his sister after attending her Thanksgiving gathering.
The invitation did not mention any expected payment for attending.
The man and his girlfriend brought a $40 cake to contribute to the meal.
The dinner included catered food, and family members from abroad attended.
The sister requested payment by text message the day after the event.
Online responses to the situation were largely negative, calling it improper and unexpected.
Etiquette expert Jo Hayes stated that asking guests for money after inviting them is generally inappropriate unless discussed beforehand.
An American mother shared a TikTok video where she revealed that she received a hospital bill of over $30,000 for giving birth without medication in the U.S. This story has drawn reactions worldwide, highlighting the high cost of childbirth in the U.S. compared to countries with publicly funded healthcare systems.
Key Facts
An American mother said she was billed over $30,000 for unmedicated childbirth without complications.
She spent approximately six-and-a-half hours in the hospital.
The labor and delivery room charge alone was over $11,000.
Comments from outside the U.S. expressed surprise at the high costs.
The U.S. is one of the most expensive places for childbirth, with significant variations in cost depending on insurance and hospital network status.
In many Western countries like Canada and parts of Europe, childbirth costs are low or free due to taxpayer-funded public healthcare systems.
The story contributes to ongoing discussions about the high costs of healthcare in the U.S.
