President Donald Trump was not invited to the funeral of former Vice President Dick Cheney. This is notable because sitting presidents usually attend such funerals, but tensions between Cheney and Trump may have influenced the decision.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump did not receive an invitation to Dick Cheney's funeral.
Dick Cheney served as Vice President under President George W. Bush.
Traditionally, sitting U.S. presidents attend funerals of former vice presidents.
Cheney publicly criticized Trump after the Jan. 6 Capitol events.
Trump has attacked Liz Cheney, Dick Cheney's daughter, due to her role in the Jan. 6 committee.
Liz Cheney lost her Republican primary to a candidate supported by Trump.
Dick Cheney passed away at age 84 from health complications.
President Donald Trump stated on social media that he signed a bill to release all files related to Jeffrey Epstein. The announcement suggests that these documents might reveal information about Epstein’s connections with some Democrats.
Key Facts
President Donald Trump announced he signed a bill regarding Jeffrey Epstein's files.
Trump made the announcement on a social media platform called Truth Social.
The bill orders the full release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein, who was a sex offender.
Trump suggested the files could reveal information about connections between Epstein and Democrats.
The announcement was made on a Wednesday evening.
Additional details about the bill or the files are expected later.
Some Democrats in the House of Representatives are facing challenges from more progressive candidates. These primary challenges are partly inspired by New York City's Mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani. Progressive candidates are looking to gain more power in various areas, including New York and D.C.
Key Facts
New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani is inspiring progressive primary challenges against House Democrats.
Progressive candidates aim to unseat established Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
New York City Council member Chi Ossé has filed to run against Jeffries in a primary challenge.
Other New York Democrats like Rep. Grace Meng and Rep. Ritchie Torres also face challenges.
The "Mamdani revolution" is affecting other states like Michigan, Missouri, and California.
Justice Democrats, a progressive group, supports these primary challengers.
Rep. Jerry Nadler thinks New York City Comptroller Brad Lander is a strong contender if he runs against Rep. Dan Goldman.
The Social Security Administration has confirmed it will not make major changes to the way disability benefits work. Reports of a plan to limit the number of people qualifying for disability benefits caused concern among advocates, but officials assured no such changes will happen.
Key Facts
The Social Security Administration decided not to overhaul disability benefits.
There were concerns that changes would reduce eligibility for benefits, especially for older Americans.
The rumored proposal was expected to be the largest cut to disability benefits ever.
An advocate met with key officials, who confirmed the changes will not occur.
White House officials stated no such proposal was underway.
President Trump is committed to safeguarding Social Security benefits.
The decision not to proceed was reassuring to advocates for disabled individuals.
Florida Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick has been charged with taking $5 million in extra payments meant for disaster relief and using it for her election campaign. If found guilty, she could go to prison for up to 53 years.
Key Facts
Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, a representative from Florida, has been indicted by a grand jury.
She is accused of stealing $5 million from FEMA, which is the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The money in question was allegedly used for her congressional campaign.
The Justice Department announced that she could face up to 53 years in prison if found guilty.
House ethics officials have been investigating her since 2023 for possible improper campaign donations.
A spokesperson for Cherfilus-McCormick did not reply to questions about the charges.
Cherfilus-McCormick has denied any wrongdoing in past ethics probes related to her campaign financing.
A Republican congressman plans to file a censure motion against Democratic U.S. Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick after she was indicted on charges of stealing Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster-relief funds. The indictment involves allegations that Cherfilus-McCormick and her co-defendants diverted funds meant for disaster relief into her 2021 congressional campaign. Her attorneys have stated they will fight the charges.
Key Facts
Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, a Democratic U.S. Representative, faces a federal indictment for stealing about $5 million from FEMA.
Republican Congressman Greg Steube intends to file a censure motion against her and remove her from congressional committees.
The indictment alleges that the stolen FEMA funds were laundered and partly used in Cherfilus-McCormick’s 2021 congressional campaign.
Cherfilus-McCormick and her brother are accused of misusing funds connected to a COVID-19 vaccination-staffing contract.
Trinity Healthcare Services, her former company, was allegedly overpaid by nearly $5.8 million for COVID-19 work, sparking state concerns.
The Office of Congressional Ethics reported that Cherfilus-McCormick's income significantly increased in 2021 due to consulting and profit-sharing fees.
The House Ethics Committee is conducting an investigation into her financial activities.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized the seriousness of the charges, stating the importance of holding powerful individuals accountable.
The House Ethics Committee has started an investigation into Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) for various allegations, including sexual misconduct and financial issues. A vote to censure Mills and remove him from certain committees is also being considered.
Key Facts
The House Ethics Committee will investigate Rep. Cory Mills.
Allegations include sexual misconduct, financial misconduct, and other violations.
Mills denies all allegations against him.
A vote on censuring Mills is planned, led by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.).
In October, a judge issued a protective order against Mills after accusations by a former girlfriend.
House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated Ethics would investigate if needed.
Members often avoid censure votes if an Ethics investigation is ongoing.
Five people pleaded guilty to charges related to terrorism in connection with a shooting incident at an ICE detention center in Texas. This marks the first case following President Donald Trump's executive order classifying antifa as a domestic terrorist threat. The defendants were accused of supporting terrorism, specifically tied to a gunfire exchange that injured a police officer.
Key Facts
Five individuals admitted to supporting terrorism-related activities in a Texas courtroom.
The charges stem from a shooting at the Prairieland ICE Detention Center in July.
President Trump designated antifa as a domestic terrorist threat through an executive order in September.
The movement called antifa consists of far-left activists opposing fascism and similar ideologies.
The injured police officer, shot in the neck, was later released from the hospital.
The defendants each pleaded guilty to one count of providing material support to terrorists.
The maximum sentence they face is up to 15 years in prison.
Legal experts have questioned the authority to classify domestic groups like antifa as terrorist organizations.
President Trump's proposal to send $2,000 checks from tariff revenues to Americans is not supported by Senate Republicans. Many senators believe sending these checks would need Congress's approval, and they prefer using the money to reduce the national debt and deficit.
Key Facts
President Trump suggested sending $2,000 checks to Americans funded by tariff revenues.
Senate Republicans are not supportive of this idea.
Senators believe distributing the checks would require approval from Congress.
Many senators want the tariff revenue to go toward reducing the national debt and deficit.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other senators voiced concerns about using tariffs for checks.
The White House is exploring ways to send the checks without needing Congress's approval.
There is a concern that sending the checks might contribute to inflation.
President Donald Trump plans to meet with New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani on November 21, 2024. Trump previously criticized Mamdani, calling him a "communist" and raising concerns about his policies. The meeting may influence the relationship between the federal government and New York City leadership.
Key Facts
President Trump announced a meeting with New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.
The meeting is scheduled for November 21, 2024, at the Oval Office.
Trump has previously referred to Mamdani as a "communist."
Mamdani won the mayoral election in New York City on November 4, 2024.
Tensions exist between the Trump administration and Mamdani regarding policies on immigration and federal funding.
Trump's administration has plans to increase federal officer presence in New York City to target immigrants.
The relationship between the Trump administration and New York City could impact New Yorkers significantly.
President Donald Trump signed a law requiring the Justice Department to release its case files on Jeffrey Epstein. The law aims to provide transparency by making nearly all investigative documents public within 30 days, with some exceptions for sensitive information. The move has raised questions about how the Justice Department will handle the release, especially regarding possible political implications.
Key Facts
President Trump signed a bill requiring the release of Justice Department files on Jeffrey Epstein.
Epstein's files are estimated to cover 100,000 pages of investigation records.
The law mandates the release of FBI interview notes, internal communications, and evidence.
Sensitive material, such as victims' identities and national security information, will remain protected.
The Justice Department cannot withhold information due to embarrassment or political sensitivity.
Attorney General Pam Bondi did not specify when files would be released.
The bill includes an accountability mechanism for any withheld documents.
President Trump expressed his wish to replace Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, calling him "grossly incompetent" at a U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum. Trump mentioned he nearly knows who he wants as the next Fed chair, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is leading the search for candidates. A decision on the next chair is expected by the end of the year.
Key Facts
President Trump wants to replace Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.
Trump called Powell "grossly incompetent" at a recent forum.
Trump nearly knows his choice for the next Fed chair.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is managing the search for a new Fed chair.
Trump criticized the Fed for keeping interest rates too high.
Bessent has identified five finalists for the Fed chair position.
A new Fed chair choice is expected by the end of the year.
The U.S. Department of Justice admitted that the grand jury in James Comey's case did not see the final indictment against him. During a court hearing, Comey's lawyers argued for dismissal due to procedural errors and suggested President Trump used the case for political reasons. The Justice Department acknowledged some irregularities but maintained the case should proceed.
Key Facts
The Justice Department said the grand jury did not see the final indictment against James Comey.
Comey's lawyers are asking the court to dismiss the case, citing errors and political interference.
President Trump is accused of using the legal system against his critics.
There were three prominent critics of Trump, including Comey, indicted in recent weeks.
The Justice Department's prosecutor admitted the grand jury did not see the final indictment.
Questions were raised about whether a court reporter was present during grand jury sessions.
A judge has ordered that grand jury materials be shared with Comey's defense team.
The focus is on alleged political motivation behind the indictment, linked to Trump's past actions.
Five people admitted guilt to charges related to supporting antifa in a shooting at a Texas detention center, which injured a police officer. The U.S. Justice Department charged them after President Trump designated antifa as a domestic terrorist group. The individuals face up to 15 years in prison for providing support to terrorists.
Key Facts
Five individuals pleaded guilty to charges related to a July shooting outside a Texas immigration detention center.
President Trump identified antifa as a domestic terrorist organization prior to the charges.
The U.S. Justice Department claims this is the first case targeting antifa with terrorism support charges.
A police officer was injured in the shooting conducted by an antifa group outside Prairieland Detention Center.
The accused face a maximum of 15 years in prison if convicted.
The incident involved firearms and fireworks directed at the detention center.
Antifa is a term for groups that oppose neo-Nazis and white supremacists, rather than a single organization.
A federal grand jury in Miami indicted Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick for allegedly stealing $5 million from FEMA disaster funds and using it for her 2021 congressional campaign. She, along with her co-defendants, is accused of diverting the money through various accounts and using it for her campaign. If found guilty, she and three others face possible prison time.
Key Facts
Democratic Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick was indicted by a federal grand jury.
She is accused of stealing $5 million in FEMA disaster funds.
The money was allegedly funneled into her 2021 congressional campaign.
Prosecutors claim the funds were laundered through multiple accounts.
Part of the funds was reportedly sent through straw donors (secret donors) to support her campaign.
Cherfilus-McCormick allegedly conspired with a tax preparer to file a false tax return.
She and three others could face long prison terms if convicted.
The Senate sent a bill to the White House that asks the Justice Department to make the Epstein files public, following President Trump's recent change of position on the matter. At the same time, the DOJ is under more pressure about how it managed the case involving former FBI Director James Comey.
Key Facts
The Senate approved a bill about releasing the Epstein files and sent it to the White House.
President Trump had previously opposed this bill but recently changed his position.
The bill requires the Justice Department to make files related to Jeffrey Epstein available.
The DOJ is criticized for how it managed the case against former FBI Director James Comey.
The discussion about these issues was with Geoff Bennett and Josh Gerstein on Politico.
A recent poll by PBS News, NPR, and Marist shows some positive signs for Democrats and concerns for Republicans ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
Key Facts
The poll was conducted by PBS News, NPR, and Marist.
It focuses on voter sentiments with midterm elections approaching.
Democrats appear to have some encouraging signs from the poll results.
Republicans face some warning indicators according to the poll.
The poll results are being discussed by Amna Nawaz and Domenico Montanaro.
Medication abortions are when people use pills to end a pregnancy. These pills now make up over 60% of abortions in the U.S., but they are banned in at least 14 states after the overturn of Roe v. Wade. As a result, underground networks have formed to help people get these pills.
Key Facts
Medication abortions use pills for ending a pregnancy.
Over 60% of abortions in the U.S. are medication abortions.
Abortion pills are banned in at least 14 states following the reversal of Roe v. Wade.
Underground networks have emerged to help people access abortion pills.
These networks operate outside the legal system.
The rise in underground networks is due to new state laws restricting abortion access.
The Labor Department will not release a full jobs report for October due to a 43-day government shutdown, which prevented data collection. Instead, it will release partial October data along with the full November report on December 16. September's jobs data will be released this week and will be important for Federal Reserve discussions on interest rates.
Key Facts
The U.S. government shutdown lasted 43 days.
The October jobs report is incomplete because the Labor Department couldn't gather all data.
The November complete report, including some October data, will be released on December 16.
September's jobs report will now be released on Thursday, having been delayed from October 3.
Federal Reserve officials will use the September data to inform decisions on interest rates at their upcoming meeting.
The household survey, used to calculate the unemployment rate, couldn't be conducted for October.
President Trump fired the Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner in July after a disappointing jobs report.
There is no suspicion of misconduct regarding the delay; the shutdown halted operations for six weeks.
Congresswoman Nancy Mace from South Carolina moved to formally reprimand, or censure, fellow Republican Cory Mills from Florida. This action is due to allegations against Mills, including misrepresenting military achievements, business misconduct, and personal misconduct. The move requires a quick vote in the House of Representatives.
Key Facts
Nancy Mace is a Republican congresswoman from South Carolina.
Cory Mills is a Republican representative from Florida.
Mace accuses Mills of misrepresenting military service, improper business dealings, and personal misconduct.
Mace's resolution is "privileged," meaning it must be voted on within two legislative days.
Mills denies many accusations, some of which have no formal charges or were recanted.
The House Committee on Ethics has begun a new inquiry into Mills' conduct.
A previous attempt to censure Democratic Delegate Stacey Plaskett for unrelated reasons failed.
