A recent study in JAMA Pediatrics reveals a concerning post-Dobbs decision increase in infant mortality rates, particularly among infants with congenital anomalies. This rise, showing a 7% overall increase and a 10% increase in anomaly-related deaths, is attributed to abortion bans preventing terminations of pregnancies with fatal fetal conditions. The study analyzed national CDC data from 2018-2023, highlighting spikes in infant deaths in specific months following the Supreme Court ruling. These findings directly contradict claims that abortion bans protect infant lives, instead demonstrating a tragic and foreseeable consequence of restricted reproductive healthcare access.
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The Department of Justice (DOJ) released a report finding that Oklahoma City and its police department discriminate against individuals with behavioral health disabilities, citing unnecessary institutionalization and inappropriate police responses to mental health crises. The DOJ investigation, launched in 2022 following a complaint, revealed a pattern of escalating situations through armed intervention rather than utilizing behavioral health professionals. This often leads to avoidable use of force and unmet mental health needs. The DOJ seeks a resolution with city and state officials but may file suit to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act if necessary.
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Elon Musk’s endorsement of Germany’s AfD and the UK’s Reform UK has sparked outrage among officials. He argues his investments justify political commentary, despite accusations of meddling for personal gain. His actions are viewed as dangerous attempts to influence elections, particularly given potential large, legally questionable donations. Concerns over foreign interference and the spread of extremist rhetoric are amplified by Musk’s public support for far-right figures and policies. This has led to resignations within German media and condemnation from numerous government officials.
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Despite a history of anti-immigrant rhetoric, President-elect Trump has reversed his stance on the H-1B visa program, prioritizing the needs of wealthy corporations over his base. This policy shift, coupled with planned cuts to social safety nets, reveals a two-tiered approach favoring the rich through tax cuts and tariff exemptions while potentially harming the poor and working class. This prioritization of corporate interests is evident in Trump’s willingness to grant tariff exclusions to companies willing to curry favor, mirroring past behavior. The resulting policy will likely exacerbate economic inequality, benefiting the wealthy at the expense of the vulnerable.
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The independently financed film “The Apprentice,” a Donald Trump origin story, has been largely ignored by Hollywood despite positive reviews and its timely relevance. Stars Jeremy Strong and Sebastian Stan, who play Roy Cohn and Trump respectively, have criticized their colleagues for shunning the film, citing concerns about free speech and the industry’s selective engagement with political issues. This silence contrasts sharply with Hollywood’s vocal opposition to Trump during previous elections, suggesting a potential shift in the industry’s approach to political activism or a recognition of its diminishing influence. The film’s reception reflects a broader trend of Hollywood’s reduced political engagement since Trump’s election, leaving some to question whether this is a temporary lull or a more permanent change.
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Jaia Cruz, 24, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder in the death of 36-year-old U.S. Postal Service worker Ray Hodges. The stabbing occurred inside a Harlem deli following an altercation reportedly sparked by a dispute over a food order. Hodges, a Bronx resident, was stabbed in the stomach and later died at a hospital. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is collaborating with the NYPD on the ongoing investigation.
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Following Elon Musk’s call for the release of far-right activist Tommy Robinson, senior UK politicians privately urged US counterparts to avoid endorsing him. These Brexit-supporting politicians, from both Conservative and Reform UK parties, emphasized that Robinson’s criminal record and extremist views are not representative of mainstream British right-wing thought, even among those with anti-immigration stances. The concern stemmed from Musk’s influence within Trump’s circle and the potential reputational damage to figures like Nigel Farage. These behind-the-scenes conversations highlight the tensions between Musk’s actions and the preferred image of the British right.
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A new California law mandates that baby food manufacturers publicly disclose heavy metal testing results via QR codes on product labels, starting January 1, 2025. Major manufacturers are expanding this transparency nationwide, despite the law’s California-only application. This initiative follows concerns about dangerously high levels of arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in some baby foods, previously hidden from consumers. While complete elimination is impossible, the increased transparency aims to pressure manufacturers to improve sourcing and processing methods to reduce heavy metal content.
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Following a leaked text expressing loneliness and anticipation for Elon Musk’s return to Mar-a-Lago, Trump’s seeming disinterest in governing became increasingly apparent. His delayed responses to crises, such as the near-government shutdown, contrasted sharply with Musk’s proactive actions, highlighting a power imbalance. A subsequent online feud between Musk and MAGA loyalists, sparked by Trump’s hiring of foreign tech workers, further exposed this dynamic; Trump ultimately sided with Musk, alienating his base. This incident solidified Musk’s influence over Trump, demonstrating that the latter prioritizes his personal relationship with Musk over his political base.
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Rudy Giuliani faced a seven-hour contempt hearing regarding his failure to fully comply with a court order to turn over assets to compensate two women he defamed. Giuliani claimed he didn’t intentionally withhold information, citing memory issues and a desire to protect sentimental items like his grandfather’s pocket watch. However, inconsistencies emerged regarding his asset declarations, including missing items from his apartment and conflicting accounts about the location of a signed Joe DiMaggio jersey. The judge deemed Giuliani in violation of the court order, and further hearings are scheduled to determine sanctions and the surrender of additional assets.
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John Q. Hosedrinker