House Speaker Mike Johnson spoke on the "Katie Miller Podcast" about the need for Republicans to reject antisemitism and support Israel. He shared his views on the importance of the U.S.-Israel alliance and discussed his personal life and experiences as Speaker. The episode, which includes lighthearted moments and personal anecdotes, will be available on various podcast platforms.
Key Facts
House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the need for Republicans to reject antisemitism on the "Katie Miller Podcast."
Johnson discussed the importance of the U.S. relationship with Israel, noting it as a critical ally and stable democracy in the Middle East.
The interview included personal aspects of Johnson's life, such as his phone habits and personal schedule.
Johnson mentioned the challenges of his role, including constant communication with members of Congress.
The podcast episode was recorded in the Speaker's Ceremonial Office at the Capitol.
The full interview is set to be available on platforms like YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify at 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday.
A tornado struck areas north of Houston, Texas, damaging over 100 homes and causing power outages, though no injuries were reported. The storm led to downed trees, power lines, and debris, disrupting travel during a busy holiday period. Officials worked to fix gas leaks and clear debris in affected neighborhoods.
Key Facts
A tornado damaged more than 100 homes north of Houston.
No injuries have been reported from the storm.
The tornado uprooted trees, downed power lines, and scattered debris.
Over 20,000 customers lost power during the storm.
Heavy rain and thunderstorms were forecasted for southern areas following the tornado.
Crews worked to address gas leaks and remove blocked roads in Klein and other areas.
Several vehicle crashes were linked to the storm.
The National Weather Service had issued a tornado watch and severe thunderstorm warning for the area.
The U.S. military is considering ending its long-standing relationship with Scouting America, according to a leaked Pentagon memo. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth suggests this change due to differing values, particularly regarding diversity and inclusion. The decision is not final, and the military acknowledges the organization’s role in youth development and military recruitment.
Key Facts
A leaked Pentagon memo suggests the military may cut ties with Scouting America.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cites differences in values, including issues with diversity and inclusion.
The military has supported Scouting America since 1937, including during major events like the National Jamboree.
Scouting America is known for leadership training and aiding military families with transitions.
Critics within the military warn that cutting ties could harm recruitment efforts.
The memo has not yet been sent to Congress and the decision is not finalized.
Scouting America maintains it works with all U.S. administrations, focusing on leadership and community service.
President Trump previously praised the Scouts at a past Jamboree.
A video from 2019 featuring Kamala Harris giving tips on how to prepare Thanksgiving turkey has gone viral again. In the video, Harris provides advice on using both wet and dry brines and shares her recipe, which includes a cheap bottle of white wine for basting. The video gained popularity on social media after journalist Jonathan Capehart reposted it.
Key Facts
The video of Kamala Harris giving turkey cooking tips was originally filmed in 2019.
Harris discusses both wet and dry brining methods for preparing turkey.
For a wet brine, Harris suggests using water, bay leaves, sugar, peppercorns, and orange slices.
For a dry brine, she advises using salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and butter under the turkey's skin.
A cheap bottle of white wine is recommended by Harris for basting the turkey.
The video was reposted on social media by Jonathan Capehart, gaining over 92,500 views and 4,900 likes quickly.
The video is popular online, especially around Thanksgiving time.
Harris served as a California senator when the video was made in 2019 and later became Vice President.
U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan has ordered the Justice Department to speed up the release of records related to Jeffrey Epstein. The decision is part of a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit filed by Democracy Forward, seeking transparency about the Justice Department's handling of Epstein's case and any connections to President Trump's administration.
Key Facts
A FOIA lawsuit by Democracy Forward seeks faster release of Epstein investigation records.
The records include communications of senior officials and references to President Trump.
Judge Tanya Chutkan agreed that expedited processing of some requests is warranted.
The lawsuit aims to address how the Trump administration handled Epstein-related investigations.
Attorney General Pam Bondi reportedly told President Trump his name appears in the Epstein files.
The Justice Department earlier claimed no client list or blackmail evidence was found in the files.
The case involves concerns about government transparency and public trust in the DOJ's actions.
President Donald Trump plans to pardon two turkeys named Gobble and Waddle as part of a Thanksgiving tradition. This event occurs during a challenging time in his second term as President. He will also travel to Florida for the holiday.
Key Facts
President Trump will pardon two turkeys named Gobble and Waddle for Thanksgiving.
The turkey pardon is a traditional event for U.S. Presidents.
The event is scheduled for 12 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
Gobble and Waddle stayed in a luxury hotel before their visit to the White House.
President Trump will go to his private resort in Florida to celebrate the holiday.
Recent election results showed significant Democratic wins in New Jersey and Virginia.
There are reports that Thanksgiving meals may cost more this year, despite President Trump's comments on prices.
Some House Republicans are thinking about leaving Congress due to death threats and internal conflicts. Many feel pressured by demands of loyalty to President Trump and other issues. Already, 41 members have said they will not run again, and more may follow.
Key Facts
House Republicans are considering leaving Congress because of death threats and internal conflicts.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's resignation has caused concern among her colleagues.
So far, 41 members plan to quit at the end of their current term.
Rep. Don Bacon is upset with a proposed peace plan between Russia and Ukraine and considered resigning early.
The House has a small Republican majority, making it hard to pass new laws if a few members leave.
Threats against lawmakers have increased, contributing to some members' decisions to leave.
Political violence and internal conflicts are cited by several representatives as reasons to retire.
Trump is seen as having significant influence over the Republican-controlled House.
A U.S. court dismissed cases against James Comey and Letitia James, which the Justice Department under President Trump had pushed forward. The court found legal mistakes in how the cases were handled, particularly around the appointment of Lindsey Halligan as a prosecutor. There is a larger issue of staff changes at the Justice Department, affecting its ability to function properly.
Key Facts
The Justice Department's cases against ex-FBI director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James have been dismissed.
President Trump had replaced career prosecutors with less experienced but loyal individuals, impacting the department's effectiveness.
Over 5,500 career Justice Department staff members have left, and more than 200 others have been fired since January.
A court ruled that prosecutor Lindsey Halligan was improperly appointed, making her legal actions invalid.
The White House plans to appeal the court's dismissal of the cases.
The statute of limitations for one of the cases expired because the indictment was void from the start.
Halligan signed an indictment without presenting it to the grand jury, a major legal misstep.
The court found Halligan's appointment violated federal law and the Constitution's Appointments Clause.
Nike founder Phil Knight donated $3 million to a Republican political action committee in Oregon. This donation is aimed at helping Republicans gain seats in the Oregon Legislature, where Democrats currently hold most of the power. It is the biggest amount Knight has ever given to a candidate or political group in Oregon.
Key Facts
Phil Knight, who started Nike, donated $3 million to Republicans in Oregon.
The money was given to the Bring Balance to Salem PAC.
This group wants to help Republicans win more seats in the Oregon Legislature.
Currently, Democrats have a strong hold in both parts of the Oregon Legislature.
The donation was made on October 22, 2023.
It is the largest single donation Knight has made to this cause in Oregon.
Knight previously donated $2 million each in 2023 and 2024 and $1 million in 2022 to the same group.
The article discusses the importance of American farmers and their contributions to the country's food supply, particularly during Thanksgiving. It highlights a tradition where President Trump will pardon turkeys, emphasizing the significance of agriculture in American history and society.
Key Facts
The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture expresses gratitude to American farmers for their role in food production.
Brooke L. Rollins, the 33rd Secretary of Agriculture, wrote the article.
President Trump will continue the tradition of pardoning turkeys at the White House during Thanksgiving.
This tradition showcases the importance of agriculture and American heritage.
Thanksgiving provides a time for people to recognize and thank farmers for their hard work.
A recent survey showed rural Americans are more optimistic about the nation's future than urban residents.
The article emphasizes farming's connection to American values like independence and patriotism.
Although only 1.2% of Americans are farmers now, their work supports the entire country's food supply.
During Thanksgiving week, around 82 million people are expected to travel across the U.S., making it one of the busiest travel periods in 15 years. Severe winter weather is forecasted to affect travel conditions, with snowstorms predicted to hit several states. This may cause flight delays and cancellations, as airports and roads will face heavy traffic.
Key Facts
82 million people are expected to travel during Thanksgiving week.
The FAA is preparing for its busiest holiday period in at least 15 years.
A major winter storm is predicted, with up to 3 feet of snow in some areas.
Snowstorms will affect the Northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes.
73 million people are expected to drive, and 6 million are expected to fly.
The TSA expects an unusually busy travel day on the Sunday after Thanksgiving.
Over 1,000 flights experienced delays, with dozens canceled.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport reported around 150 delays.
Americans are getting ready for Thanksgiving, and there's a common question about whether to wash their turkeys before cooking. The CDC and other federal agencies advise against washing raw turkey because it can spread germs around the kitchen. Cooking the turkey properly is the safer way to kill any harmful bacteria.
Key Facts
Many Americans wash turkey before cooking due to tradition, not because it improves safety.
The CDC warns that washing raw turkey can spread germs to kitchen surfaces and other foods.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture highlighted that washing does not remove bacteria from poultry.
Cross-contamination from washing turkey can cause illness.
Despite the advice, a 2020 survey showed 78% of respondents still washed their turkeys.
Federal agencies have advised against washing poultry since 2005.
The CDC advises cleaning and sanitizing the area if you do wash the turkey.
Proper cooking to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit ensures safety from bacteria.
Erika Kirk spoke about the online discussions concerning her hug with Vice President JD Vance during a Turning Point USA event. Social media users speculated about their relationship, leading Erika to clarify that her "love language is touch" and dismiss the rumors. Usha Vance, the Vice President’s wife, also faced speculation due to appearing in public without her wedding ring, but a spokesperson said it was due to routine activities.
Key Facts
Erika Kirk hugged Vice President JD Vance during a Turning Point USA event in Mississippi on October 29.
The hug sparked online speculation about their relationship.
Erika Kirk mentioned on a show that physical touch is her way of expressing affection.
Usha Vance was seen without her wedding ring, which led to rumors about her marriage.
A spokesperson clarified that Usha Vance often forgets her ring due to daily activities like washing dishes and bathing children.
Erika Kirk became the Turning Point CEO after her husband Charlie Kirk's death.
Erika expressed her desire to have had children with Charlie Kirk before his death.
The public remains interested in the personal lives of political figures like Erika Kirk and Vice President Vance.
A former Republican, Robb Ryerse, has switched to the Democratic Party to run against Republican Steve Womack in Arkansas's 3rd congressional district in the 2026 midterm elections. Ryerse cited concerns about affordability, such as the cost of living, as a reason for his switch. He stated the importance of serving local people over maintaining political party loyalty.
Key Facts
Robb Ryerse is now running for Congress as a Democrat in the 2026 midterm elections.
Ryerse is running against the current Republican representative, Steve Womack, in Arkansas's 3rd congressional district.
He previously ran against Womack in the Republican primary in 2018.
Ryerse mentioned a "political identity crisis" as part of his reason for changing parties.
Local concerns over the economy, food, healthcare, and housing prices influenced his decision.
Ryerse has served as the executive director of Vortex PAC, supporting Democrats in Arkansas, since February 2023.
It is unclear exactly when Ryerse switched parties after running as a Republican in 2023.
The American cattle industry is upset with President Trump due to policies that they claim hurt domestic profits. Beef prices are high in the U.S., and plans to import beef from Argentina have made ranchers worried about their competitiveness.
Key Facts
The American cattle industry accuses President Trump of harming their profits.
Beef prices in the U.S. are 15% higher than last year, affecting consumers.
Jim Hertzog, a market operator, highlighted a recent drop in cattle futures prices.
Feeder cattle prices saw record highs earlier but have recently fallen.
President Trump plans to import more beef from Argentina, upsetting U.S. ranchers.
Trump reduced tariffs on some international agricultural products.
Tyson Foods is closing a plant in Nebraska and downsizing in Texas, affecting jobs.
President Trump claims his tariffs have helped U.S. cattle ranchers.
Aftyn Behn, a Democratic candidate, is facing challenges in a special election in Tennessee to win a currently Republican-held seat, with her odds decreasing from 28% to 12% according to Polymarket. Comments she made criticizing Nashville and past actions have resurfaced, potentially impacting her campaign. The election is important as it could affect the balance of power in the House of Representatives.
Key Facts
Aftyn Behn is running against Republican Matt Van Epps to fill a vacant Tennessee House seat.
Behn's odds of winning decreased from 28% to 12% from November 5 to November 25.
Comments made by Behn in 2020 about disliking Nashville have resurfaced.
A video showed Behn calling for Republican figures to resign, posted originally in 2019.
Deleted tweets from Behn criticized police practices.
A poll showed Van Epps with an 8-point lead over Behn.
The district has historically supported Republicans; President Trump won there by over 20 points in 2024.
The special election is scheduled for December 2, with early voting from November 12 to 26.
Faith leaders and community advocates have started rapid-response units to monitor and respond to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions in Charlotte. They aim to document and challenge aggressive immigration enforcement under President Trump's administration. The initiative involves using vans staffed with volunteers, including lawyers and clergy, to support affected families and report ICE activities.
Key Facts
Faith leaders and community groups launched rapid-response units to monitor ICE in Charlotte.
These units operate from "Liberty Vans," which are mobile command centers.
The vans are staffed by volunteer attorneys, clergy, veterans, and videographers.
President Trump's administration has increased immigration enforcement as part of a pledge for mass deportation.
ICE operations have been cited in cities with Democratic leaders, with federal justification often linked to crime rates.
Community leaders oppose what they see as aggressive tactics by ICE and push for more compassionate immigration policies.
The Catholic Church has criticized the mass deportation agenda, highlighting its impact on families and communities.
The initiative, called Operation Liberty, was launched as an alternative to current enforcement strategies.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized Senator Mark Kelly over his military uniform following a Pentagon probe into Kelly. Kelly, a former Navy captain, and several Democrats reminded troops they shouldn't follow illegal orders, which President Trump labeled as "seditious." Hegseth pointed out errors in Kelly's uniform in response to the video.
Key Facts
Pete Hegseth is the U.S. Defense Secretary.
Hegseth criticized Arizona Senator Mark Kelly's military uniform.
The Pentagon is investigating Kelly over serious misconduct claims.
Mark Kelly posted a video with other Democrats about not following illegal orders.
President Trump called the video "seditious" on his social media platform.
Kelly shared an image of himself in uniform and spoke about his military service.
Hegseth commented on the mistakes in Kelly's uniform display.
A federal judge dismissed criminal charges against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia Dean. The U.S. Department of Justice plans to appeal this decision. Comey mentioned he expects President Trump to pursue him legally once more.
Key Facts
A federal judge dropped charges against James Comey and Letitia Dean.
The U.S. Department of Justice plans to challenge the judge's decision.
James Comey was a former Director of the FBI.
Letitia Dean is the New York Attorney General.
Comey stated he expects President Trump to target him legally again.
The DOJ's announcement of appeal came shortly after Comey's statement.
In California, 9.6 million people are expected to drive during Thanksgiving 2025, resulting in high traffic congestion. The busiest travel days are forecasted to be Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday, with increased police patrols on the lookout for dangerous driving behavior. Officials advise drivers to plan for delays and travel safely, but the weather is expected to be clear.
Key Facts
Around 9.6 million people are expected to drive in California during Thanksgiving week in 2025.
The busiest travel days are predicted to be Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday.
Police will increase patrols to monitor speeding, distracted driving, and DUI, as 36 people died from DUI-related incidents during Thanksgiving last year.
Traffic congestion is expected to reach a 147% increase on busy routes like I-5 North, I-15 North, and US-101 North during peak hours.
Drivers are encouraged to travel early in the day to avoid peak congestion times.
Weather forecasts show calm conditions with no rain or snow expected.
AAA reports that Thanksgiving travel will set a post-pandemic record, with 81.8 million Americans traveling at least 50 miles from home.
Caltrans plans to suspend all non-emergency road construction to help reduce congestion.
