A recent WalletHub poll reveals that 74 percent of Americans anticipate increased inflation due to President-elect Trump’s proposed tariffs on imports from countries including China, Canada, and Mexico. These tariffs, intended to protect American jobs and punish countries with allegedly unfair trade practices, could add 60 percent to the cost of Chinese goods and up to 20 percent to other imports. Experts warn that these increased costs will likely be passed on to consumers, resulting in higher prices for everyday goods and potentially significant financial losses for middle-income families. The ultimate implementation of these tariffs remains uncertain, contingent upon bipartisan support in Congress.
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Alexander Smirnov, a former FBI informant, pleaded guilty to fabricating a bribery scheme involving President Biden and his son Hunter, a claim central to a Republican impeachment inquiry. This felony plea, along with a separate tax evasion charge, stems from Smirnov’s false allegations to the FBI in 2020. A four-to-six-year prison sentence is recommended. Smirnov’s false claims, despite being deemed unfounded by the FBI in 2020, significantly influenced the Republican investigation. The case was handled by Special Counsel David Weiss, who also prosecuted Hunter Biden.
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Following the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, Senator Bernie Sanders used the opportunity during an NBC News interview to advocate for universal healthcare in the US. He decried the violence as unacceptable while highlighting the public’s anger towards a healthcare system that prioritizes profit over people’s needs. Sanders emphasized the US’s uniquely low life expectancy and high healthcare costs compared to other developed nations as reasons to implement a system guaranteeing healthcare for all. He reiterated his longstanding support for universal healthcare, citing the recently introduced Medicare for All Act as a potential solution.
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During his first post-election press conference, President-elect Trump falsely claimed a 34-point victory among young voters, a claim contradicted by AP VoteCast data showing Vice President Harris winning this demographic. He attributed his purported success in part to TikTok and podcast appearances, stating he had “a warm spot” for the platform. Considering this, and the upcoming TikTok ban deadline, Trump announced his administration would review the situation. He also credited his son, Barron, for advising on media appearances that allegedly enhanced his youth appeal.
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Taiwan’s defense ministry announced the arrival of 38 advanced M1A2 Abrams tanks, the first delivery of a 108-tank order placed in 2019. These tanks, representing a significant upgrade to Taiwan’s aging fleet, arrived late Sunday and were transferred to a training base. The acquisition, costing over US$1.2 billion, strengthens Taiwan’s defensive capabilities against potential Chinese aggression. This substantial arms purchase underscores Taiwan’s reliance on the US for bolstering its defenses against increasing threats.
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David Hogg, a Parkland shooting survivor and gun control advocate, is vying for DNC vice chair. His campaign focuses on regaining young voters who shifted towards Republicans in the recent election, critiquing the party’s perceived complacency and reliance on consultants. Hogg advocates for internal reflection and improved youth outreach strategies, emphasizing the urgency of addressing threats to gun safety legislation under a potential Trump presidency. He aims to achieve this through direct engagement with DNC members.
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In a recent Defense Ministry meeting, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov advocated for preparing for potential war with NATO within the next decade, citing NATO’s July summit decisions and doctrinal shifts as justification. This preparation includes the establishment of a new military branch dedicated to unmanned systems, slated for completion in 2025. President Putin echoed these concerns, accusing the West of escalating tensions through increased military presence and potential missile deployments, prompting Russia to threaten retaliatory measures. Belousov also claimed significantly higher Ukrainian casualties than reported by Kyiv and Western sources.
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Lester C. Harvey Jr., a 58-year-old Virginia man, died from injuries sustained after being struck by a bear that fell from a tree. The incident occurred when hunters, having chased a bear into the tree, shot the animal causing it to fall and hit Harvey. Despite receiving immediate first aid and hospitalization, Harvey succumbed to his injuries. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources concluded its investigation without pursuing any charges.
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Despite President-elect Trump’s hardline stance on immigration, his businesses hired a record number of foreign guest workers in 2024, a figure nearly double that of a decade prior. This includes various Trump properties and companies linked to his key supporters and appointees, utilizing the H-2B visa program for temporary positions. Critics argue this undermines American workers’ bargaining power, while Trump’s administration has indicated interest in restricting similar programs in the future. This stark contrast highlights a tension between stated policy and actual practice within the Trump administration.
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On December 15th, Ukraine launched a second wave of ATACMS missile strikes deep into Russia, targeting critical infrastructure. These strikes, employing a combined arms approach with Palen drones to overwhelm air defenses, successfully hit an airbase in Taganrog, an ammunition depot in Markine, and a Bryansk train depot. The high-explosive ATACMS missiles caused significant damage, disrupting Russian logistics, air operations, and impacting their war effort. The combined effect of these attacks is anticipated to reduce Russian offensive capabilities and force a reallocation of resources.
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John Q. Hosedrinker