Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia declared her resignation from the House, effective January 5, 2026, citing a significant disagreement with former President Donald Trump. The feud intensified over her advocacy for releasing Jeffrey Epstein's investigative files, leading Trump to label her a "traitor." Greene expressed her refusal to endure a "hurtful and hateful primary" and emphasized her commitment to representing her district's interests and voting her conscience. Trump responded by calling her departure "great news for the country."

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President Trump and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani held a surprisingly cordial meeting at the White House, despite their history of mutual criticism. The two leaders, both with roots in Queens, emphasized their shared commitment to addressing New York City's affordability crisis and ensuring public safety. Trump praised Mamdani, expressing confidence in his leadership and pledging federal assistance for the city. This unexpected display of cooperation suggests a potential shift from their previously adversarial relationship, with both leaders appearing keen to work together for the city's benefit.

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President Trump declared the immediate termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somali immigrants in Minnesota, alleging, without evidence, that "Somali gangs are terrorizing" the state and that Minnesota has become a "hub of fraudulent money laundering activity." Governor Tim Walz criticized the move as a politically motivated attack on the Somali and Muslim community. The decision impacts 705 Somali immigrants approved for TPS, with advocacy groups decrying it as a "political attack" driven by Islamophobic rhetoric, urging the President to reverse the decision.

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A shooting incident at a Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Concord, North Carolina, resulted in four people being wounded on Friday evening. Three victims are in critical condition, while one is stable, all receiving medical treatment at a hospital. The event was immediately canceled following the gunfire, which occurred near Union Street S. Authorities, already present at the public gathering, responded swiftly, and the incident remains under investigation as officers review footage and interview witnesses.

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Taiwan's Armaments Bureau plans to invest over NT$1.01 billion (US$32 million) between 2026 and 2028 into a "forward-looking multi-integration development project" for uncrewed platforms. This initiative aims to develop critical drone technologies such as GPS-independent operation, anti-jamming capabilities, and high-density batteries, deemed essential amidst pressure from Beijing. The project seeks to integrate interministerial resources and academic-industrial research to foster indigenous development of defense systems and strengthen Taiwan's emerging drone industry ecosystem.

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The White House meeting between President Trump and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, anticipated as a contentious showdown, instead unfolded with surprising cordiality. Both leaders, despite their past political insults, emphasized common ground on issues like New York's high real estate costs and public safety. This article highlights the "stagecraft" of the meeting, suggesting a pragmatic approach from both sides, particularly Mamdani's ability to charm a political foe. This unexpected détente may offer a respite from Trump's previous threats to the city, although its long-term impact remains uncertain.

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Following her announcement to resign from Congress, this article examines the challenges Marjorie Taylor Greene faces in rebuilding her political credibility amidst a feud with former President Trump over the Jeffrey Epstein files. The author argues that Greene's history of inconsistency and promoting conspiracy theories has created a "deficit of trust," making it difficult for her to regain public confidence. The piece draws parallels to restorative justice programs, suggesting that politics lacks a structured process for politicians to earn back trust, leaving her future path uncertain.

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Democratic Senator Sheldon Whitehouse is clashing with Kennedy Center President Ric Grenell over allegations of financial mismanagement and wasteful spending. Whitehouse claims the center is being "looted" through foregone revenue, canceled programming, and luxury expenses, particularly after Trump allies were appointed to key roles. Grenell vehemently denies the accusations, asserting that the center now operates with a balanced budget and that all expenditures are donor-based or customary. The dispute highlights concerns over the institution's financial integrity and political influence.

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Peter Sullivan, released from prison after nearly 40 years for a sexual assault murder he did not commit, shares his optimistic yet challenging adjustment to a "different world." He describes navigating modern life without the internet or smartphones, and the institutionalization from his incarceration. Sullivan seeks an apology and answers regarding his wrongful conviction, having lost his parents during his time inside. Merseyside Police expressed regret for the "grave miscarriage of justice" and referred his allegations of police misconduct to a watchdog, with Sullivan pursuing government compensation.

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Iranian Christian converts, including Majid, are facing deportation from the US back to Iran, despite some having been granted protection from removal by immigration judges. These deportations, including a rare chartered flight to Iran, highlight inconsistencies in how US authorities assess risks for Iranian returnees and handle sensitive religious information. Converts from Islam face severe persecution in Iran, including arrest and prison terms, with advocacy groups noting a significant increase in arrests. The situation contrasts with President Trump's public stance on protecting persecuted Christians abroad, leaving many asylum seekers in precarious limbo.

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Charities are raising alarms that the criminal justice system in England and Wales is failing fraud victims, with only a small fraction of reported cases leading to prosecution. With 1.2 million fraud cases recorded annually, fewer than 13,000 result in prosecution, leaving victims like Joan Holdaway, who lost £1,000, feeling unsupported. Victim Support highlights concerns about international fraud cases not being investigated and calls for improved public awareness campaigns and greater cooperation between banks and social media companies. The Home Office plans to publish an "ambitious Fraud Strategy" to address these issues.

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A Washington state man has reportedly died from a rare H5N5 bird flu strain, marking the first known human fatality from this particular variant. The man, an older adult with underlying health conditions, had a backyard poultry flock exposed to wild birds. State health officials emphasize that the risk to the public remains low, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission. This incident is the nation's first human bird flu case since February, and officials are monitoring close contacts, noting H5N5 is not considered a greater threat than the more common H5N1 virus.

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The 16-year-old stepbrother of Anna Kepner, an 18-year-old found dead on a Carnival cruise ship, may be called to testify in a child custody dispute involving his parents. Investigators suspect Kepner may have been strangled during an altercation, and the stepbrother is being investigated for possible involvement. The family of the 16-year-old referred to the death as a "suspected murder" in a court filing, requesting proceedings be closed to the press. The FBI has not confirmed him as a suspect, as the investigation continues with review of surveillance and interviews.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has engaged in discussions with leaders from France, the U.K., and Germany regarding a 28-point peace plan proposed by the Trump administration to end the war with Russia. Zelenskyy acknowledged the US efforts, while also noting Ukraine faces a difficult choice between "loss of dignity" or a "difficult winter." The plan reportedly includes provisions requiring Ukraine to cede territory, limit its military, and forgo NATO membership, terms favorable to Russia. European allies, not involved in drafting the proposal, are now coordinating closely to ensure their interests are considered.

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Prince Andrew has drawn criticism from US politicians for not responding to a request from the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform to cooperate with their investigation into Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking operations. Committee members stated Andrew's silence "speaks volumes" given allegations against him and his friendship with Epstein. Despite not being legally obliged to testify, the committee vowed to continue its work to hold all involved accountable. Andrew, who denies all accusations, was recently stripped of his royal titles, as more Epstein-related documents are set for public release.

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Democratic Representative Eric Swalwell has announced his bid for California governor in the 2026 election, launching his campaign on his website and a late-night show. A vocal critic of the Trump administration, Swalwell pledges to be a "fighter and protector" for the state, drawing on his experience as a prosecutor and congressman. He joins a crowded field of candidates vying to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom. Swalwell also expressed skepticism about the full release of Jeffrey Epstein files, after the Trump administration referred him to the Justice Department over alleged tax and mortgage fraud, which he dismisses as "nonsense."

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This article investigates the scientific basis behind popular winter wellness trends such as cold water swimming and kombucha, questioning their claimed immune-boosting benefits. Experts, including immunologists, suggest that while cold plunges offer a "high" from adrenaline and social connection, they don't fundamentally boost the immune system. Similarly, kombucha lacks strong real-world evidence for its microbiome benefits. The consensus among medical professionals is that vaccinations are the only proven method to strengthen immunity, while general health practices like exercise, sleep, and stress reduction offer indirect support.

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"Rebuilding" is a drama starring Josh O'Connor as Dusty, a laconic cowboy grappling with profound loss after his 200-acre family ranch in Colorado is destroyed by a wildfire. The film, directed by Max Walker-Silverman, sensitively portrays Dusty's quiet struggle to reconstruct his life while navigating a temporary FEMA camp and strained family relationships. It's a character study exploring grief, inertia, and the search for hope amidst devastation, resonating with real-world experiences of natural disasters. The movie, while occasionally mannered, offers a delicate grace in its portrayal of human resilience.

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A Mexican woman, Ary Gisell Silva Raya, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to robbery and vehicle theft in connection with the murders of two Australian brothers and an American friend during a surfing trip in Baja California. Raya admitted to instigating her boyfriend and two others to rob the men, who were later found shot in the head in a well. While her sentencing pertains to the thefts, prosecutors indicated she could face additional penalties. Three other suspects remain in custody awaiting trial for the killings.

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Radiohead returned to the stage after a significant hiatus, delivering a "spell-binding" and "hit-packed" performance at London's O2 Arena. The band sifted through their extensive discography, delighting fans with both experimental tracks and crowd-pleasers like "Fake Plastic Trees" and "Paranoid Android." Despite some initial rustiness, the concert was lauded for its rapturous moments and the band's dynamic interplay, suggesting a "healing" process among members. While the future of new material remains uncertain, the reunion tour itself has been a significant event for devoted fans.

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The first saplings grown from seeds rescued from the illegally felled Sycamore Gap tree are set to be planted across the UK this weekend, marking a symbolic act of renewal. Forty-nine saplings, one for each foot of the original tree's height, will be distributed to various locations, including community centers and hospitals, as part of the National Trust's "Trees of Hope" initiative. This effort aims to inspire hope and serve as a reminder that "there are always good things worth fighting for, even after something so senseless," following the original tree's destruction in 2023.

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A person was killed in Winnetka, Los Angeles, when a large tree fell, crushing two vehicles during fierce Santa Ana winds on Friday afternoon. Paramedics pronounced the victim dead at the scene, with crews working to extricate the body and clear the massive tree. The National Weather Service had issued warnings about gusty winds, noting that recent rains had saturated the soil, making trees more susceptible to falling. Authorities advised securing outdoor objects and avoiding parking under trees during the wind event, which also posed a risk of power outages.

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Wade Milyard, a retired canine officer from Frederick, Maryland, has launched "Fresh Step Laundry," a free mobile fluff and fold service for homeless individuals. Inspired by a perceived divine calling after encountering a homeless couple doing laundry in a creek, Milyard converted a bus using his own funds and donations to provide this essential service. He believes that clean clothes can significantly boost self-esteem and dignity for those experiencing homelessness. Milyard's mission is driven by a profound sense of purpose to continue serving his community in a humbling and impactful way.

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Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito has issued a temporary stay, pausing a lower court ruling that found Texas' 2026 congressional redistricting plan likely discriminates based on race. The lower court's decision had blocked the map, which was designed to secure five additional Republican House seats and was challenged by civil rights groups for alleged racial gerrymandering. Texas officials sought the Supreme Court's intervention, arguing the ruling came too close to upcoming elections. Alito's administrative stay allows time for the justices to consider the matter without ruling on its merits, leaving the map's fate uncertain.

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An Ohio police officer, Connor Grubb, has been acquitted of all charges, including murder, in the shooting death of Ta'Kiya Young, a pregnant Black mother accused of shoplifting. The verdict, delivered after multiple days of deliberation, prompted strong emotional reactions, including sobs from Young's grandmother. Bodycam footage showed Grubb firing a single bullet into Young's chest as her car moved slowly towards him. While the defense argued Grubb acted to protect himself and others, Young's family vowed to continue their fight in civil court, alleging improper training and escalation by the police department.

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A grizzly bear attacked a school group in a remote area of British Columbia, seriously injuring four people, including three children. Two victims are in critical condition. The incident occurred when the bear charged a group of 20 children and their teachers, who heroically intervened with bear spray and bangers to repel the animal. Conservation officials noted the rarity of such an attack on a large group and urged people to avoid the area while they search for the bear. Bear-human encounters typically increase as winter approaches, as grizzlies seek food for hibernation.

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As AI-generated music proliferates, experts are providing guidance on how listeners can discern whether their favorite new tracks are human-made or artificial. Tell-tale signs include a lack of live performances or social media presence from the "artist," formulaic song structures, breathless vocals, and overly polished production that lacks human imperfections. While AI technology is rapidly advancing, some human elements like emotional depth, unique phrasing, and unexpected lyrical choices remain difficult for AI to replicate. The article highlights calls for greater transparency in the music industry regarding AI's role in creation.

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Memory chip prices are forecast to increase by 30 percent in the fourth quarter of this year and an additional 20 percent in 2026, building on a 50 percent surge year-to-date, according to Counterpoint Research. This significant rise is attributed to robust demand from the artificial intelligence sector. The increased demand is leading to a tight supply of conventional memory products, such as LPDDR4 chips, which are crucial for various consumer electronics, including certain servers and smartphones. (not investment advice)

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Eric Gillespie, founder of defense contractor Govini, has been released on a $1 million bond after being charged with multiple felonies, including sexual assault. His attorney maintains Gillespie's innocence, stating that "completely false statements" made in an "online fantasy chat" using artificial intelligence are not illegal. Gillespie, whose passport was revoked, faces a Pentagon probe into potential security issues following his arrest, as Govini holds a nearly $1 billion contract with the Department of Defense. The company terminated Gillespie after placing him on administrative leave.

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Figure AI, a prominent developer of humanoid robots, is being sued by its former head of product safety, Robert Gruendel, who alleges wrongful termination after raising serious safety concerns. Gruendel claims he warned executives that the company's robots were powerful enough to "fracture a human skull" and had already caused damage during malfunctions. He also expressed concerns about a "gutted" product safety plan presented to investors. The lawsuit, seeking damages and a jury trial, highlights emerging issues around the safety of humanoid robots and whistleblower protections in the rapidly growing AI industry.

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European newspapers are reporting that Britain and other European allies are "scrambling" to "strengthen" the proposed US peace plan for Ukraine, expressing concern that it could leave Ukraine vulnerable to further attacks. Headlines suggest Ukrainian President Zelenskyy faces a difficult choice between accepting a "humiliating" deal or losing US support, with some European capitals "reeling" at the pressure. The plan reportedly includes provisions for Ukraine to cede territory and limit its military. European leaders have agreed that any plan affecting them requires their approval or consensus among allies.

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Facial injections using polynucleotides, tiny DNA fragments extracted from trout or salmon sperm, are gaining popularity as a new skincare trend. Celebrities like Charli XCX and Jennifer Aniston have endorsed "salmon sperm facials," with proponents claiming the treatment rejuvenates skin by stimulating collagen and elastin production. While a growing body of research suggests potential benefits for skin health and reducing wrinkles, some experts caution that the hype may outpace scientific evidence. Concerns also exist regarding the lack of regulation, potential side effects, and the hefty price tag associated with these relatively new procedures.

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The UK is launching a new clinical trial, "Pathway," to assess the risks and benefits of puberty-blocking drugs for children and young people under 16 questioning their gender. This follows a ban on the drugs for gender treatment due to concerns about a lack of clinical evidence for their safety. The trial will involve approximately 220 participants, examining the drugs' impact on physical, social, and emotional well-being, with strict criteria for eligibility and ongoing psychological support. However, some clinicians and campaigners question the ethics of conducting such a trial, with threats of legal action.

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Stars of "Strictly Come Dancing" are reacting to the unexpected announcement that long-serving presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will be stepping down from the hit BBC show. Contestants learned of the news via social media, expressing shock at the "end of an era." This development comes amidst several controversies for the show, including recent allegations of sexual assault against an unnamed Strictly star, which is under police investigation. Despite the off-screen challenges, the cast remains focused on their performances, particularly as they prepare for the milestone Blackpool week.

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