Despite unanimous Senate passage and initial bipartisan House support, the JUDGES Act, aiming to address federal court staffing shortages by creating 63 new judgeships, now faces a presidential veto. Democrats reversed their support due to concerns that President-elect Trump would appoint 22 of the new judges, highlighting the intense political polarization surrounding judicial appointments. Republicans argue the bill is a necessary solution to a long-standing problem, while the White House cites concerns about the timing and potential motives behind the bill’s passage. The bill’s future hinges on whether a compromise can be reached to secure Democratic backing in the next Congress.
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Two separate polls, Hangil Research and Jowon C&I, revealed strong public support for the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, following the controversial declaration of martial law. Support consistently exceeded 75 percent across both surveys, with higher percentages among younger age groups and progressive political leanings. Regional support varied, but even traditionally conservative regions showed significant backing for impeachment. The surveys employed different methodologies, yet both indicated substantial public dissatisfaction with the president’s actions.
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A California child fell ill with flu-like symptoms after consuming raw milk from Raw Farm, prompting an investigation into a potential H5N1 bird flu case. Initial CDC tests for H5 flu were negative, though further testing is ongoing. The milk producer, Raw Farm, had already recalled several lots of milk and cream after bird flu was detected in their products. The child recovered fully, and there is no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
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A man died after falling from the 11th floor of the Russian Investigative Committee building in Krasnoyarsk, Russia. Security camera footage captured the incident, showing the man falling through the roof of a neighboring building. The Investigative Committee has launched an inquiry into the death, noting the man was at the building to be questioned regarding an unspecified criminal case. His identity remains unconfirmed.
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The proposed $25 billion merger between Albertsons and Kroger, aiming to combine the fifth and tenth largest US grocery retailers, has been terminated. A federal judge blocked the deal, citing concerns that the merger would eliminate competition and potentially raise prices for consumers. Albertsons subsequently sued Kroger for breach of contract, while Kroger countered with accusations of Albertsons’ own breaches. The FTC’s opposition, along with concerns from unions and politicians, ultimately contributed to the deal’s collapse, a win for FTC Chair Lina Khan.
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The UK Ministry of Defence successfully tested a new laser weapon system, mounted on a Wolfhound vehicle, that successfully destroyed a drone at the Radnor Range in Wales. The system uses advanced sensors and tracking for precise targeting, offering a cost-effective and virtually unlimited-ammunition alternative to traditional weaponry. This achievement showcases British military innovation and engineering prowess, a significant advancement in the nation’s defense capabilities. The laser weapon was developed through a collaboration between UK and US defense organizations and industry partners, including Raytheon UK. This follows recent successful tests of other advanced military technologies in the UK.
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Syrian rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), destroyed the tomb of Hafez al-Assad, Bashar al-Assad’s father, in Qardaha. This followed a rapid rebel offensive that ousted the Assad regime, with Bashar al-Assad fleeing to Russia. The fall of the Assad regime has prompted international reactions, including blame from Iran and Israeli air strikes targeting Syrian military assets. Meanwhile, Damascus is showing signs of life returning to normal, although many citizens still grapple with the aftermath of the conflict.
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Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, speaking at an Equal Voice Foundation event, cited Kamala Harris’s presidential defeat as evidence of a broader attack on women’s progress. He highlighted regressive forces actively working against women’s advancement, emphasizing the need for continued efforts toward gender equality. Other speakers at the event, including MPs from various parties, discussed the need for increased female representation in politics and overcoming divisions within the movement. Trudeau reaffirmed his commitment to feminism and allyship in the face of these challenges.
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Satellite imagery reveals that, following the Syrian rebel takeover of Damascus and the flight of President Assad, Russian naval vessels, including two guided-missile frigates and an oiler, have departed from their Tartous base. These ships have anchored approximately 13 kilometers northwest of Tartous, while the remaining fleet’s location remains undetermined. This relocation comes as Moscow seeks to secure its strategically vital air base in Latakia and its sole Mediterranean naval facility at Tartous. The departure was confirmed by both satellite imagery and Russian war blogger reports.
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John Q. Hosedrinker