Republicans narrowly secured a House majority, with their 220-215 advantage (soon to be 217-215) hinging on three North Carolina seats gained through extreme gerrymandering. This partisan map manipulation, enabled by the Supreme Court’s refusal to address gerrymandering claims, significantly skewed the playing field in favor of the GOP, despite Democrats receiving a higher share of the national popular vote. The resulting House map, heavily gerrymandered in multiple states, does not accurately reflect the national popular will, rendering the national vote totals largely meaningless. Ultimately, control over state legislative map-drawing processes proved decisive in determining the outcome of the House elections.
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A recent Levada Center poll reveals that 39% of Russians believe nuclear weapons use could be justified in the Ukraine war, a figure that has risen steadily alongside escalating Russian nuclear rhetoric. This increase coincides with President Putin’s approval of a revised nuclear doctrine and renewed nuclear threats. Conversely, opposition to nuclear weapons use has decreased from 52% in June to 45% in November. These findings highlight a growing acceptance among Russians of nuclear escalation, mirroring broader pro-war sentiment and support for Putin’s actions.
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Following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, concerns have arisen regarding the potential reversal of Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage. While some justices have previously expressed dissent towards Obergefell, legal experts maintain that marriage equality remains secure, at least in the foreseeable future. However, the Respect for Marriage Act, along with state-level protections, has been enacted to safeguard same-sex marriage should the Supreme Court act to overturn Obergefell. Despite these measures, anxiety persists among some same-sex couples.
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Following recent Israeli attacks, World Central Kitchen has temporarily suspended operations in Gaza after three of its employees were killed. Israel claims one of the deceased participated in the October 7th attacks, a claim disputed by the victim’s family. This incident highlights the dangerous conditions faced by aid workers operating in the conflict zone. The loss of these vital workers further complicates humanitarian efforts to aid the starving Palestinian population.
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In a phone call, Ukrainian President Zelensky and French President Macron addressed crucial aspects of Ukraine’s defense, focusing on bolstering air defenses, expediting the delivery of Mirage fighter jets, and enhancing comprehensive military support. Zelensky emphasized the critical need for Ukraine’s NATO membership to counter Russian aggression and accelerate peace. Discussions also included expanding Ukraine’s long-range capabilities and continued training of Ukrainian forces. This conversation follows similar discussions with German Chancellor Scholz regarding strengthening Ukraine’s overall defense capabilities.
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Former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb expressed deep concern over Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s nomination for HHS Secretary, predicting potentially life-threatening consequences due to Kennedy’s anti-vaccine stance. Gottlieb anticipates decreased vaccination rates leading to outbreaks of preventable diseases like measles. He also highlighted Kennedy’s controversial views on abortion and other issues, suggesting potential opposition from Republican senators during the confirmation process. Gottlieb further asserted that President-elect Trump likely does not share Kennedy’s views on vaccines.
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A Turkish-backed coalition of Islamist militant groups, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, launched a significant offensive in Syria’s Aleppo governate on November 27th. Reports suggest Ukrainian special forces may have provided training to these rebels, focusing on tactics used in the Ukraine war, although this remains unverified. The offensive, fueled by Russia’s troop deployment to Ukraine, has resulted in rebel gains, including the capture of numerous villages and military equipment. The swift rebel advance, coupled with attacks by the SDF, has reportedly surprised Syrian and Russian forces, leading to a tactical withdrawal and civilian casualties.
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President Salome Zourabichvili, aligning with opposition calls, declared the Georgian parliament illegitimate due to alleged election fraud and demanded new elections. She will remain president to ensure a stable transition, despite the parliament’s plans to replace her. Mass protests, met with police intervention, continue across Georgia, fueled by the government’s decision to halt EU accession talks and concerns about democratic backsliding. International condemnation, including US suspension of its strategic partnership, further intensifies the crisis.
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Donald Trump’s announced plans for mass deportations during a second term will severely harm nearly 20 million US-born children with immigrant parents. These policies, which aim to create a climate of fear within immigrant communities, will inflict significant psychological damage on these children, echoing the trauma caused by previous administrations’ family separation policies. Unlike prior administrations, however, Trump’s actions appear intentionally designed to cause this harm as a means of deterring immigration. The long-term effects will include increased stress, limited access to essential services, and potential family separation, forcing children to leave the US alongside deported parents.
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Democratic strategist Chai Komanduri claims Elon Musk’s influence has effectively overtaken the Republican Party and the MAGA movement, mirroring Trump’s previous consolidation of power within the party. Komanduri describes this as a strategic investment opportunity, highlighting Trump’s declining influence and the absence of a clear MAGA successor. Musk’s recent alignment with the Republican party, following a shift from his past Democratic affiliations, is coupled with his appointment to lead the new Department of Government Efficiency under the Trump administration. This appointment, alongside substantial financial contributions to pro-Trump groups, underscores Musk’s growing political power.
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John Q. Hosedrinker