Despite previous claims of lowering grocery prices, Trump acknowledges the difficulty in reversing price increases. He cites improved energy supply and supply chain fixes as potential solutions, pointing to congested ports as evidence of ongoing supply chain issues. However, his proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods, major sources of US fruits and vegetables, directly contradict this goal and will likely raise consumer prices. This suggests a disconnect between Trump’s stated objectives and the likely consequences of his economic proposals.
Read More
The Physicians Make Decisions Act (SB 1120) mandates that licensed healthcare providers, not AI algorithms, make final decisions regarding medical necessity for treatments in California. This law addresses concerns about algorithmic bias and inaccuracies in insurance claim processing, preventing potential harm from AI-driven denials of care. SB 1120 requires physician review of all AI-influenced decisions impacting patient care, ensuring human oversight and equitable standards. Effective January 1, 2025, the act establishes a national precedent for responsible AI implementation in healthcare.
Read More
Since receiving increased funding in 2022, the IRS has recovered $4.7 billion in back taxes and criminal proceeds, including $1.3 billion from wealthy tax evaders and $2.9 billion from criminal investigations. These collections, which also benefited from whistleblower information, come as Republicans, who will control Congress, plan to revisit tax laws and potentially reduce IRS funding. Despite facing future budget uncertainty, including $20 billion in potentially rescinded funds, IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to adapt to any upcoming legislative changes. The future of the IRS’s funding and leadership remains uncertain with a potential new commissioner nominated by Donald Trump.
Read More
A Florida judge ordered President-elect Trump to undergo a four-hour deposition next week in his defamation lawsuit against ABC News and George Stephanopoulos. This deposition, scheduled before a December 24th deadline for summary judgment motions, is in response to Stephanopoulos’ on-air statement that Trump was “found liable for rape,” a claim disputed by Trump. The judge acknowledged Trump’s previous unavailability during the election but deemed his current status necessitates participation. ABC News intends to question Trump about prior statements relevant to his credibility and the defamation claim itself.
Read More
After several months without contact, missing Missouri man Travis Timmerman was located in Syria, where he’d been imprisoned after entering the country on a self-described pilgrimage. U.S. military officials subsequently airlifted him to Jordan, a development confirmed by his family and Syrian authorities. Timmerman, who had previously traveled through Eastern Europe, reportedly told news outlets he’d been detained for seven months before being released following recent political upheaval in Damascus. His family expressed immense relief at his safe return.
Read More
The 2024 US presidential election saw high turnout, yet an estimated 90 million eligible Americans did not vote—a number exceeding the votes for either major candidate. Many non-voters cited the Electoral College as rendering their votes insignificant in their respective states. Other reasons included dissatisfaction with both candidates, a perception that neither represented working-class interests, and policy disagreements, particularly regarding the candidates’ stances on issues like Israel and climate change. Finally, some expressed disillusionment with the two-party system and extreme political polarization.
Read More
Mysterious drones, previously spotted across the country, are now making appearances in the Texas sky, sparking a flurry of speculation and reactions. The sheer unexpectedness of these sightings, especially in a state known for its firearm-friendly culture, has only fueled the intrigue. Some have expressed surprise at the lack of immediate, armed responses; a reaction that would seem almost instinctive in many parts of Texas.
This lack of immediate response, however, might be a clue. The suggestion is that these are likely government-operated drones, possibly part of a larger, ongoing testing phase. This idea is bolstered by the timing, potentially a pre-release test run of new surveillance technology slated for full deployment later in the year.… Continue reading
Luigi Mangione’s seemingly incoherent online presence, encompassing diverse views on health, politics, and culture, is surprisingly representative of the average American’s less rigidly ideological stance. His following includes figures from across the political spectrum, reflecting a growing “pro-system” versus “anti-system” divide that transcends traditional left-right categorization. This anti-system sentiment, shared by many Americans, challenges the elite perception of a starkly polarized electorate. Mangione’s actions, while horrific, highlight the potential for politically unaligned individuals to commit violence stemming from a belief in systemic failure.
Read More
Two topless women, adorned with Ukrainian flags serving as garters, engaged in a dramatic protest outside the United Nations building in Geneva. Their actions, while undoubtedly attention-grabbing, sparked a range of reactions. The core of their demonstration involved sawing into the “Broken Chair,” a well-known monument symbolizing the victims of landmines. This act of vandalism, while controversial, served as a powerful visual representation of their message.
The protesters’ slogans, “Keep Russia out of the UN” and “F$ck Russia,” clearly articulated their opposition to Russia’s role in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This direct and forceful language underscored the urgency and intensity of their feelings.… Continue reading
This year’s best adult advent calendars offer a sophisticated countdown to Christmas. Curated selections cater to diverse tastes, from gourmet food and drink to luxurious beauty products and unique experiences. Expect high-quality items and innovative themes, ensuring a memorable holiday season. Each calendar promises daily delights, transforming the wait for Christmas into a luxurious journey of discovery. These carefully chosen calendars are sure to delight even the most discerning adult.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood