Recent airstrikes conducted by Saudi Arabia targeted separatist forces in Yemen, specifically in the port city of Mukalla and other areas where the Southern Transitional Council (STC) is stationed. These actions follow the STC’s seizure of an oil-rich region and declaration of a constitution for an independent nation in the south, further escalating tensions. The strikes are the latest intervention by Saudi Arabia, which has also bombed the STC and disrupted weapon shipments, and have resulted in deaths and injuries. Saudi Arabia plans to hold a conference in Riyadh to facilitate dialogue between southern factions, reflecting broader strains within the anti-Houthi coalition and an apparent power struggle with the UAE over regional influence.
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Following Costco’s lawsuit against the Trump administration to recoup tariff payments, some prominent MAGA figures are calling for a boycott of the big-box store. These influencers are citing the company’s lawsuit and its earlier stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion as reasons for the boycott. Supporters are encouraged to move their business to Walmart. Costco, which is known for its $1.50 hot dog combo, has stated that they have been working to mitigate the impact of tariffs on consumers.
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Costco has sued the Trump administration to recoup tariffs paid this year and prevent future collection, citing a potential loss of funds even if the Supreme Court rules against the duties. The lawsuit addresses a looming December 15 deadline concerning tariff liquidation and the potential for refunds. The suit emphasizes that even if the Supreme Court invalidates the tariffs, Costco needs separate judicial relief to secure a refund. Dozens of other companies have also filed similar suits contesting the legality of the tariffs.
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Costco sues Trump administration for ‘full refund’ of tariffs, a move that’s sparking a lot of conversation, and for good reason. It’s a complex situation with a lot of moving parts, and it has the potential to impact both the company and, potentially, the consumers who shop there. The core of the matter is that Costco is seeking to recoup money it paid in tariffs imposed during the Trump administration.
Digging deeper into the details, it becomes clear that this isn’t just a simple case of a company wanting its money back. The tariffs in question were levied on imported goods, and the lawsuit argues that they were, in essence, an unfair tax.… Continue reading
Costco Wholesale is suing the Trump administration, contesting the legality of tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), seeking a full refund of duties paid. The lawsuit argues that the IEEPA doesn’t explicitly authorize the President to set tariffs. This legal challenge follows the Supreme Court’s review of the tariff agenda, where justices expressed skepticism. Costco, like several other major companies, is seeking refunds, having previously absorbed costs on imported goods such as pineapples and bananas to protect customer prices.
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Novo Nordisk is expanding access to its weight loss and diabetes medications, Ozempic and Wegovy, by selling them at Costco pharmacies nationwide. A one-month supply of either drug will cost $499 out of pocket for Costco members with a prescription, a move designed to compete with compounding pharmacies. While the price is the same as offered through other retailers, the expanded availability aims to improve access, despite the fact that cost and insurance coverage remain significant barriers for many, especially those with lower incomes who may benefit most from these medications. Recent research highlighting the drugs’ potential benefits for conditions like stroke and heart health further underscores the importance of wider accessibility.
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Lululemon filed a lawsuit against Costco, alleging the retailer sells “confusingly similar” replicas of its popular apparel, including hoodies, jackets, and pants. The athletic wear company claims these “dupes” infringe on its “trade dress” by mimicking its designs so closely that they confuse consumers into believing they are authentic Lululemon products. The company argues that these imitations violate trademark law, seeking damages for lost profits and demanding Costco halt the production and distribution of the allegedly infringing items. Lululemon’s lawsuit specifically targets Costco’s versions of its “Scuba” hoodies, “Define” jackets, and “ABC” stretch pants.
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Fifty-five thousand Los Angeles County workers recently embarked on a two-day strike, bringing a significant portion of county operations to a standstill. This substantial walkout, orchestrated by SEIU Local 721, highlights a growing tension between the union and the county regarding contract negotiations and working conditions. The strike underscores the vital role these workers play in the daily functioning of Los Angeles County, impacting services ranging from healthcare and social services to parks and recreation.
The union’s core demands center on cost-of-living adjustments, a halt to the outsourcing of positions, and a contract that adequately addresses current vacancies and ensures worker safety.… Continue reading
Over 50,000 Los Angeles County workers, represented by SEIU Local 721, initiated a two-day strike due to stalled contract negotiations and alleged labor law violations by the county. The walkout, impacting services like libraries and healthcare clinics, marks the first time all union members have simultaneously struck. The county cites significant budget pressures, including wildfire damage and legal settlements, as reasons for its negotiating stance. The union, however, contends that the county’s actions disregard the essential contributions of its workers and demands fair compensation and respect.
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In response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, Costco plans to decrease its reliance on Canadian products in its American stores. CEO Ron Vachris anticipates price increases on items from Canada, China, and Mexico but expects to offset these by sourcing more products from countries unaffected by tariffs. Costco currently sources less than 20% of its U.S. products from these three nations. Despite these challenges, the company reported strong overall sales growth in both the U.S. and Canada during the fourth quarter.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood