Democrat Derek Tran has extended his lead over Republican Rep. Michelle Steel in California’s 45th congressional district race, though the Associated Press has yet to call the contest. Tran declared victory despite Steel’s refusal to concede, and both campaigns are actively fundraising for a potential recount. The narrow margin highlights ongoing ballot counting and verification processes in California, which have faced criticism from Republicans. Ultimately, county election officials have until December 3rd to certify the final results.
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The Biden administration is urging Ukraine to significantly expand its military by lowering the conscription age to 18 and increasing mobilization efforts, aiming to address a critical troop shortage. This push comes as Ukraine faces a massive manpower deficit against Russia, exacerbated by the arrival of North Korean troops in the Kursk region. While the U.S. has provided substantial military aid, it believes Ukraine needs to drastically increase its troop numbers to sustain the fight. However, Ukraine has expressed concerns that lowering the draft age could negatively impact its already strained economy and sees this pressure as a deflection from Western delays in providing necessary equipment.
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In protest of President-elect Trump’s inauguration, some Washington, D.C. Airbnb hosts are removing their properties from the market. Led by resident Stacy Kane, this initiative aims to demonstrate disapproval of Trump’s past rhetoric and actions against the city. While the movement’s impact remains uncertain, with only a few hosts currently participating, it underscores the strong feelings some D.C. residents hold regarding Trump’s return to power. The protest highlights the deeply personal nature of this inauguration for many residents, given Trump’s past criticisms and actions related to the city.
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In the coming months, Israel’s Defense Ministry and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems will finalize a significant agreement. This deal centers on the acquisition of a substantial number of compact anti-missile laser systems. The systems are expected to bolster Israel’s defense capabilities against various threats. This procurement represents a major investment in advanced laser technology for the country’s defense.
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France’s assertion that Benjamin Netanyahu enjoys immunity from International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants is a complex issue raising significant questions about international law and the perceived hypocrisy of global power dynamics. The timing of this declaration, coinciding with a Lebanon ceasefire, fuels speculation about potential backroom deals influencing the decision.
The core argument from France appears to hinge on the idea that heads of non-member states possess inherent immunity from ICC prosecution. This stance starkly contrasts with France’s previous acceptance of the ICC warrant for Vladimir Putin, highlighting a troubling inconsistency in the application of international law.
The only logical justification France could offer mirrors the US argument: that Palestine’s statehood, crucial for ICC jurisdiction, is disputed.… Continue reading
Abdalraouf Abdallah, a childhood friend of Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi, has been released from prison after serving his full sentence. Despite a September Parole Board denial citing his high risk to the public and propensity for radicalizing others, his release was mandated upon sentence expiration. The Manchester Arena Inquiry implicated Abdallah in Abedi’s radicalization, though not in the attack itself. While participating in deradicalization programs, assessments deemed him a continued high risk due to persistent extremist views.
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Trump Jr. says his father has discussed banning mainstream news outlets from White House briefings. This potential action raises several significant questions regarding the freedom of the press and the public’s right to information. It’s a bold move, one that could significantly alter the relationship between the White House and the media.
The potential ramifications of such a ban are considerable. Restricting access to the White House briefing room for specific news organizations would undoubtedly limit the flow of information to the public. This could lead to a situation where only certain narratives are presented, potentially creating an echo chamber and hindering informed public discourse.… Continue reading
To mitigate the ruble’s slide to its lowest level since the 2022 Ukraine invasion, the Central Bank of Russia announced a suspension of foreign currency purchases on the domestic market until the end of 2024. This decision, extending a previous suspension, aims to stabilize financial markets. These purchases will be postponed until 2025, while the bank will continue selling currency from its sovereign wealth fund to manage the situation. The ruble’s devaluation, while potentially beneficial for exports, also risks increasing inflation.
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After nearly three decades of wrongful imprisonment for a 1986 murder and robbery, Michael Sullivan was declared innocent and awarded $13 million. This follows a jury finding that a state police chemist provided false testimony, although this was not the sole basis for the original conviction. Despite the significant financial award, the ruling primarily signifies the vindication of Sullivan’s decades-long claim of innocence. The money will be used largely to support his nieces and nephews, reflecting Sullivan’s desire to provide for his family after years of hardship.
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Donald Trump’s incoming administration is actively debating the extent of military intervention in Mexico to combat drug cartels, a policy gaining traction within the Republican party. Proposed actions range from covert special forces operations to airstrikes and cyber warfare, with the ultimate goal of disrupting cartel activities. Key figures within Trump’s circle, including his selections for Secretary of Defense and National Security Advisor, publicly support this approach. The plan hinges on a potential ultimatum to the Mexican government; failure to curb fentanyl trafficking could trigger US military action.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood