In response to President-elect Trump’s repeated assertions that Canada could become the 51st U.S. state, Green Party Leader Elizabeth May proposed a counter-offer: California, Oregon, and Washington could join Canada as provinces. This offer, dismissed by Canadian officials as a response to Trump’s increasingly serious and disruptive rhetoric, highlights the escalating tensions between the two nations. Canadian officials emphasized the economic interdependence between the countries and warned against the potential negative consequences of Trump’s actions, including threatened tariffs. The Canadian government is actively working to mitigate the threat while simultaneously rejecting Trump’s annexation proposal.
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The Biden administration announced it will maintain federal protections for approximately 2,000 Rocky Mountain grizzly bears, despite opposition from Republican-led states. While easing some restrictions to address human-bear conflicts—allowing ranchers to shoot bears attacking livestock and authorizing bear relocation—protections will be withdrawn in states where grizzlies are absent. This decision, potentially reversible under a future administration, faces criticism from Republican officials, while wildlife advocates express support. The agency will accept public comment on proposed hunting exemptions and loosened rules for shooting bears that attack livestock.
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Former Congressman George Santos’s February sentencing for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft has been postponed until April 25th to allow him more time to generate funds from his podcast to pay restitution. Santos’s defense argued the podcast’s delayed launch necessitates the extension, while prosecutors countered that this would improperly reward his criminal behavior, citing his substantial income from other ventures. The judge granted a ten-week delay, pushing the sentencing back to April. This decision has drawn criticism from constituents who argue that the delay undermines justice.
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The 2024 Lown Institute Shkreli Awards highlighted ten egregious examples of healthcare profiteering and dysfunction. The awards recognized practices ranging from the alleged sale of unclaimed body parts by a university health science center to Medicare’s mass billing for urinary catheters, representing an 800% increase. Further awardees included a medical device company employing shady billing practices, a hospital system prioritizing profit over patient care, and a pharmaceutical company marketing a cancer drug at a significantly higher, less effective dose. These cases, selected by a panel of experts, underscore the urgent need for systemic healthcare reform.
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A JetBlue flight bound for San Juan was delayed Tuesday evening when a passenger, allegedly following a dispute with his girlfriend, opened an emergency exit and deployed the slide while the plane was taxiing at Boston’s Logan Airport. Massachusetts State Police responded, arresting the man who remained on board. The incident prompted a delay for the flight. He is scheduled for arraignment on Wednesday.
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A multi-agency investigation in Bogalusa, Louisiana, uncovered a drug trafficking operation distributing opioids, marijuana, and other substances, utilizing social media for sales and firearm purchases. The operation led to seven arrests, including that of 25-year-old Mayor Tyrin Truong, who faces charges related to drug proceeds, vehicle theft, and solicitation. Other individuals face drug distribution and conspiracy charges. The investigation is ongoing, with further details to be released.
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Sean Higgins, charged with the deaths of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, pleaded not guilty to the indictment, rejecting a 35-year plea deal. Prosecutors allege Higgins, impaired by alcohol and exhibiting road rage, struck the cyclists while driving aggressively. The defense maintains the incident resulted from unfortunate circumstances, not malicious intent. Higgins faces multiple charges, including aggravated manslaughter and vehicular homicide, and awaits trial.
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A man was apprehended at the Capitol Visitor Center carrying a machete and three knives while former President Carter lay in state. The arrest occurred hours before President-elect Trump’s planned visit to pay respects. The individual was taken into custody on weapons charges, with his motives currently unknown. Meanwhile, President Biden, returning from California, is scheduled to deliver a eulogy at Carter’s funeral on Thursday. Carter’s body will remain in the Capitol Rotunda until the service.
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A new Florida law, effective July 1st, has severely curtailed the operations of civilian review boards overseeing law enforcement misconduct investigations. The law mandates law enforcement-led investigations, restricts civilian board oversight, and requires at least one retired law enforcement officer on each panel. This has led to the dissolution or suspension of at least 15 boards across the state, despite arguments that such boards build community trust and improve police-community relations. Supporters of the law contend it ensures consistency in investigations and avoids discouraging police applicants. However, critics argue the law undermines accountability and damages community trust.
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The Justice Department, alongside ten states, is suing six major landlords for allegedly colluding to inflate rents. This alleged scheme involved sharing sensitive pricing data and utilizing an algorithm, RealPage, to coordinate rent increases across 1.3 million units. The landlords are accused of prioritizing profit over affordability, exacerbating the ongoing housing crisis impacting millions of Americans. One landlord has agreed to a settlement, while others deny wrongdoing and plan to vigorously defend themselves. The lawsuit aims to curb anti-competitive practices and make housing more affordable.
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John Q. Hosedrinker