President-elect Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, led by Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk, plans sweeping changes to the federal workforce. This includes mass layoffs (“reductions-in-force”), a mandated return to five-day workweeks in offices, and significant cuts to federal contracting. Ramaswamy cites recent Supreme Court decisions as justification, claiming they provide legal grounds for these actions, though experts dispute the feasibility and legality of such large-scale changes. These proposals face significant hurdles, including existing collective bargaining agreements and congressional oversight.
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Trump’s nomination of Dr. Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has sparked widespread outrage and disbelief. The sheer audacity of the pick, seemingly prioritizing entertainment value over qualifications, is leaving many questioning the direction of the administration. It feels less like assembling a competent government and more like casting a reality TV show, prompting comparisons to a “clown car” administration and fueling fears about the future of healthcare in America.
This appointment raises serious concerns about the potential dismantling of vital healthcare programs. Dr. Oz’s proposed “Medicare Advantage for All” plan, which involves replacing traditional Medicare with privatized insurance, is a particularly worrying aspect of this nomination.… Continue reading
Private equity firm Blackstone has acquired a majority stake in Jersey Mike’s Subs for approximately $8 billion, marking the end of its independent run. Founder and CEO Peter Cancro will retain a significant equity stake and continue leading the company. This investment will fuel Jersey Mike’s expansion domestically and internationally, along with technological advancements. The deal follows Subway’s own sale to Roark Capital, making it the second-largest sandwich chain transaction in recent history.
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Following US authorization, Ukraine reportedly launched US-supplied Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles into Russia’s Bryansk region. Russia claims to have intercepted five of eight missiles, while US officials suggest a higher number were intercepted. This attack prompted strong condemnation from Russia, accusing the US of escalating the conflict and implying direct American involvement. The incident coincided with Russia’s announcement of revised nuclear doctrine, expanding conditions for nuclear weapon use, further raising international tensions.
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Unauthorized access to depositions in the Chris Dorworth defamation case, including that of the alleged minor involved with Matt Gaetz, has been revealed. The leak, attributed to an individual using the name “Altam Beezley,” impacts ongoing investigations into Gaetz’s alleged sexual misconduct and other improprieties. Despite the Justice Department’s decision not to file charges, the House Ethics Committee’s investigation continues, facing debate over releasing its findings now that Gaetz has resigned and been nominated for Attorney General. This release is opposed by some, while others, including Democrats on the Ethics Committee, advocate for public transparency.
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Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene has threatened to release details of sexual harassment and assault claims against fellow Republicans if the House Ethics Committee releases its report on Matt Gaetz. This report, which was to detail allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use against Gaetz, is now defunct due to his recent resignation. These allegations include claims that Gaetz paid two women for sex and engaged in sexual acts with a 17-year-old, claims Gaetz denies. Greene’s threat escalates the situation, potentially exposing further damaging information within the Republican party.
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Recent IDF operations in South Lebanon uncovered a significant quantity of Russian-made weapons in Hezbollah’s possession, including recently manufactured anti-tank missiles. These weapons, some originating from Russian stockpiles in Syria, contradict prior assessments of Hezbollah’s arsenal and indicate a deepening relationship between Russia and the Iran-backed group. This discovery has heightened Israeli concerns about Moscow’s neutrality in the conflict and prompted calls for a more assertive Israeli response to Russian support for Hezbollah. The presence of advanced Russian weaponry, like the Kornet anti-tank missile, has proven highly effective in Hezbollah’s attacks against Israeli forces.
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Reports indicate that North Korea has deployed troops to support Russia’s war effort in Ukraine, with estimates ranging from 11,000 to 100,000 soldiers. While the North Korean army lacks recent combat experience, some units, like the elite 11th Corps, possess specialized training in infiltration and sabotage. Moscow’s motivation is to alleviate manpower shortages, while Pyongyang likely seeks financial compensation and access to Russian military technology. The deployment’s effectiveness remains uncertain due to language barriers and unfamiliar equipment, although some believe their unique training may prove valuable.
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An initial report from Italy’s defense minister incorrectly attributed an attack on a UN peacekeeping base in Lebanon’s Chamaa to Israeli forces. A subsequent statement clarified that the minister had incomplete information at the time of his initial claim. The ministry now asserts that the attack was instead perpetrated by Hezbollah. This revised assessment significantly alters the understanding of the incident’s perpetrators.
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In response to Sarah McBride’s election as the first openly transgender member of Congress, Rep. Nancy Mace introduced a resolution to ban transgender women from using women’s restrooms in the Capitol. Mace’s resolution aims to prohibit individuals from using single-sex facilities that don’t align with their biological sex and seeks inclusion in the House rules package. While Speaker Mike Johnson stated that Republicans are seeking a solution and will accommodate McBride, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene criticized the resolution as insufficient. Mace plans to introduce similar legislation for federal property and federally funded schools.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood