Readers are encouraged to submit news tips to The Daily Beast. The publication welcomes information from all sources. Submissions can be made through a designated online portal, details of which are provided. This process allows for the sharing of information that may lead to future news stories. The Daily Beast values its readers’ contributions.
President-elect Trump announced plans to rename the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America,” citing the U.S.’s significant presence in the region. This announcement, made during a press conference, also included renewed threats of tariffs against Mexico and Canada, alongside unsubstantiated claims about drug trafficking. Further, Trump hinted at potential military action to reclaim the Panama Canal and acquire Greenland, indicating a broader agenda of assertive foreign policy. These pronouncements follow previous statements regarding exorbitant Canal fees and a purportedly pro-Trump sentiment within Greenland.
Despite their recent closeness, President-elect Trump’s relationship with Elon Musk is reportedly strained, according to New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman. Trump privately expresses annoyance with Musk’s frequent presence and aggressive interactions, though Musk’s substantial financial contributions to the campaign afford him considerable leeway. Haberman predicts a shift in their dynamic once Trump assumes office, with Musk’s influence diminishing, although Trump is unlikely to completely sever ties. This tension is further underscored by anonymous sources citing Trump’s displeasure with Musk’s actions and pronouncements.
President Biden’s legacy is a complex tapestry woven from both accomplishment and shortcoming, making a definitive judgment challenging. To simply label him “one of the best presidents of our time” feels reductive, yet acknowledging his contributions feels necessary.
His administration oversaw positive developments in green energy initiatives, a significant push toward manufacturing resurgence in the US, and notable efforts in strengthening consumer protections. These were not insignificant steps, and their impact, even if partially eroded by subsequent administrations, should not be dismissed.
Furthermore, his focus on labor rights and efforts to control healthcare costs for seniors represent concrete policy successes deserving of recognition.… Continue reading
Vice President Kamala Harris will swear in a new class of Senators, many of whom previously spread false and defamatory claims about her during the recent election cycle. These Senators, including those who mocked her name and falsely accused her of various actions, will now participate in ceremonies presided over by the very person they attacked. This situation, while difficult, is a common experience for Vice Presidents, particularly those who have run for president. Harris, however, faces the added sting of seeing her fiercest critics gain power after a hard-fought election. Despite the unpleasant circumstances, Harris understands this is a standard part of the political process.
House Speaker Mike Johnson faces an uphill battle securing the speakership due to the narrowest Republican House majority in nearly a century—a mere 219 to 215 seats initially, shrinking further to 217 to 215 as GOP members depart for the Trump administration. This razor-thin margin leaves Johnson vulnerable to defections, requiring near-unanimous Republican support to pass legislation and potentially necessitating Democratic votes. The already precarious situation is exacerbated by Republican dissent, with at least one representative publicly opposing Johnson’s bid. President-elect Trump’s endorsement, while helpful, doesn’t guarantee Johnson’s success.
Seventeen US states now mandate age verification for accessing online pornography, impacting major platforms like Pornhub. These laws, requiring state-issued ID, raise privacy concerns, prompting Aylo, the parent company of several adult websites, to withdraw service from these states. The increased demand for VPNs to circumvent these restrictions highlights the impact of the legislation. Furthermore, potential future restrictions under a Trump administration, as outlined in the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 plan, could lead to even stricter measures, including potential criminalization of pornography.
Senator Mitch McConnell’s 18-year tenure as Senate Republican leader concludes, marking a significant shift in US politics. His leadership, characterized by minority obstruction and partisan polarization, transformed the Senate into a highly contentious arena, paving the way for figures like Donald Trump. While stepping down from his leadership role, McConnell remains a Senator and his influence, though less overt, may still affect the incoming Trump administration, particularly regarding controversial nominations. Experts are divided on the extent of his future opposition, with some predicting minimal resistance and others anticipating occasional dissenting votes, especially concerning nominees deemed unfit for office.
A Gallup poll reveals that 62 percent of Americans—the highest percentage in over a decade—believe the government should ensure healthcare access for all citizens. This marks a significant increase from 42 percent in 2013 and reflects growing support across the political spectrum, particularly among Republicans and Independents. While support for a government-run healthcare system remains divided, the data contrasts with simultaneous Republican plans to potentially cut spending on programs like Obamacare and Medicaid to fund tax cuts. Despite this, the Affordable Care Act maintains relatively high public approval at 54 percent.
Donald Trump’s reported annoyance with Elon Musk stems from Musk’s considerable influence and the resulting media attention. This rift follows Musk’s substantial financial contribution to Trump’s reelection campaign and his close proximity to Trump at Mar-a-Lago. While Trump initially welcomed Musk’s involvement, including appointing him to a new government role, a recent public disagreement over H1B visas has exacerbated tensions. Despite Musk’s growing political clout, sources suggest Trump ultimately retains control and can easily dismiss Musk if needed.
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood