The U.S. government has instructed State Department employees and grant recipients to cease public promotion of World AIDS Day, ending an annual tradition that began in 1988. This directive prohibits public messaging, social media engagement, and the use of government funds for observances, although individuals may still attend events and discuss anti-HIV programs. The policy shift, which coincides with significant cuts to federal HIV prevention funding, including the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), has raised concerns. It remains uncertain whether the State Department will release its annual PEPFAR report on December 1st.
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The U.S. government officially shut down at midnight due to the inability of Congress and the White House to agree on a funding extension. The Republican-controlled Congress, needing Democratic support in the Senate, failed to reach a bipartisan agreement, leading to the shutdown, the first since 2018. Federal employees will face furloughs and potential delayed pay, while essential workers will continue to work without pay. The two parties are fundamentally at odds over healthcare funding and government spending, with no clear path to a resolution and blame being placed on both sides.
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The U.S. government, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, has increased the reward for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to $50 million, doubling the previous amount. Maduro is accused of aiding drug cartels and operating a corrupt regime, with the U.S. alleging his involvement in narco-terrorism through alliances with organizations like Tren de Aragua and the Cartel de Los Soles. Maduro was previously indicted on charges related to narco-terrorism, cocaine importation, and possession of weapons. The government has also seized significant assets linked to Maduro, including jets and vehicles, highlighting the seriousness of the charges and the ongoing efforts to hold him accountable.
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John Q. Hosedrinker