Morning Announcements

Today’s Headlines: Iran has a new Supreme Leader: Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Ayatollah, who is reportedly a bigger hardliner than his father — whose death he can thank the U.S. and/or Israel for, along with his wife's. Trump immediately called him "unacceptable," which might've been useful information before the bombing campaign began. The U.S. death toll from Iranian retaliatory strikes is now at 8, oil just crossed $100 a barrel for the first time in four years, and the White House press secretary went on Fox News and refused to rule out a draft. Meanwhile, the CIA is reportedly arming Kurdish forces to stir up an internal uprising in Iran, while U.S. and Israeli officials are discussing sending special forces in to secure Iran's nuclear stockpile. Meanwhile, the White House blocked intelligence agencies from issuing a terrorism threat warning to local law enforcement about rising domestic risks tied to the war. When Trump was asked about Americans dying on home soil, he said "some people will die. When you go to war, some people will die."  Elsewhere in the hemisphere, Trump held a "Shield of the Americas" summit at his Doral golf club — because of course he did — gathering 17 Latin American leaders to announce a military coalition against cartels, with fired DHS Secretary Kristi Noem elevated to special envoy of the whole thing. Trump also started floating regime change in Cuba, because the Iran war apparently wasn't enough. In other chaos: Hungary detained seven Ukrainian bank employees carrying $82 million in cash and two armored vehicles, which Ukraine called "state terrorism." Two teenagers from Pennsylvania were arrested for attempting to set off explosive devices outside New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's home during dueling protests. Senate Republicans blocked a bill that would have forced disclosure of Epstein's financial records, and no one is asking any follow-up questions about that. And Texas Rep. Tony Gonzales — currently under House Ethics investigation — is dropping his reelection bid but refusing to resign his seat. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WSJ: Live Updates: Iran Picks Mojtaba Khamenei as Supreme Leader NYT: Pentagon Announces Seventh U.S. Death in War With Iran Axios: U.S. weighs sending special forces to seize Iran's nuclear stockpile CNN: CIA working to arm Kurdish forces to spark uprising in Iran, sources say The Daily Beast: Leavitt Refuses to Rule Out Drastic Troops Option for Iran War Yahoo: Trump White House Reportedly Blocking Intelligence Report Warning of Homeland Security Threats in Midst of Iran War Time: Trump's War With Iran The Hill: Trump revamps war on drugs with ‘Shield of the Americas’ endeavor NPR: Trump vows to 'take care of Cuba,' praises Venezuela cooperation at summit NYT: Oil Prices Surge Above $100 a Barrel for the First Time in Almost Four Years WSJ: U.S. Has a Big Ask for China: Buy Less Oil from Russia, More From America Bloomberg: US Considers Easing Russia Oil Sanctions NBC News: Hungary detains Ukrainians carrying $82 million in cash and gold; Kyiv calls it a hostage-taking NBC New York: Mayor Mamdani was home when protesters lit device outside Gracie Mansion AP News: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney calls for Mountbatten-Windsor's removal from line of succession KOBI 5: Sen. Ron Wyden pushes for senate passage of Epstein bank records bill Politico: Tony Gonzales drops reelection bid among pressure from GOP Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The first cabinet firing of Trump 2.0 has arrived. After two rough days testifying before Congress, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is out. Her replacement is Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin — a rancher, MMA fighter, and former ethics investigation subject who had to repay $40K in "mistaken" payments. So, a lateral move. DHS remains unfunded for a third week, and Democrats say swapping Noem out isn't enough. On the war front, the House voted 212-219 against a War Powers resolution that would have required Trump to seek congressional approval before continuing strikes in the Middle East. The US embassy in Kuwait has been shuttered after retaliatory strikes killed six American soldiers. Trump, meanwhile, told Axios he wants to personally pick Iran's next leader — though he noted most of his preferred candidates are already dead, which is a sentence that actually happened. In a memo reported by The Information, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei went off on the Trump administration, stating plainly that the White House's beef with his company comes down to Anthropic refusing to donate, refusing to flatter, and refusing to play along with what he called "safety theater." OpenAI, he implied, has been less principled. Elsewhere: Trump's White House ballroom plans hit a snag after 35,000+ public comments — 97% of them hostile — delayed a federal vote until next month. RFK Jr. got 50+ medical schools to adopt his nutrition curriculum framework, though notably none of the schools that already settled with the Trump administration signed on. And a new anti-corruption group sued Trump and Pam Bondi over the TikTok deal, arguing the administration ignored Congress's national security mandate to hand the app to political allies instead. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WSJ: Trump Ousts Kristi Noem Axios: Democrats say Kristi Noem's ouster isn't enough to end DHS shutdown AP News: March 5 updates on the Iran war AP News: Hegseth says firepower over Tehran ‘about to surge dramatically’ Axios: Exclusive: Trump says he must be involved in picking Iran's next leader Axios: Exclusive: Trump demands immediate pardon for Netanyahu to focus on Iran THe Information: Anthropic CEO: Trump Disliked Company For Not Giving ‘Dictator-Style Praise’ WaPo: Federal commission delays vote on Trump’s White House ballroom project WaPo: Thousands of public comments slam Trump’s ballroom: ‘I did not vote for this’ NYT: 50 Medical Schools Back Kennedy Plan on Nutrition After Pressure NPR: President Trump, Pam Bondi sued over sale of TikTok assets Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: State Rep. James Talarico won the Democratic Senate primary with 53% over Rep. Jasmine Crockett and will face either Sen. John Cornyn or Attorney General Ken Paxton, who are headed to a May 26 GOP runoff after neither cleared 50%. Rep. Dan Crenshaw was primaried from the right by state Rep. Steve Toth, while several incumbents were pushed into runoffs amid redistricting chaos, including Democrats Al Green and Christian Menefee facing each other and Republican Tony Gonzalez battling gun YouTuber Brandon Herrera. In other news, the Justice Department admitted it withheld 47,635 Jeffrey Epstein files after the Wall Street Journal flagged missing records. The House Oversight Committee has subpoenaed Attorney General Pam Bondi and is seeking testimony from Epstein associates including Bill Gates and Leon Black. A federal judge ruled the IRS illegally shared taxpayer data with ICE in roughly 42,695 cases. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, already under scrutiny over a questionable $143 million DHS contract and internal leadership turmoil, faced more heat on Capitol Hill. ProPublica reports the Trump administration is loosening intelligence-sharing restrictions, aka making it easier to spy on us, without notifying Congress. Abroad, Iran’s leadership transition is intensifying, with Mojtaba Khamenei emerging as a likely successor. President Donald Trump says the U.S. is “actively considering” its role after the conflict, as the Senate narrowly rejected a measure to require congressional approval for continued strikes. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: James Talarico wins US Senate Democratic primary in Texas, beating Crockett Axios: Brutal night in Texas points to trouble ahead for House members WSJ: There Are 47,635 Epstein Files Offline for Review, DOJ Says Axios: Republicans help Dems subpoena Pam Bondi in Epstein probe WSJ: House Asks Bill Gates, Leon Black and Goldman Lawyer to Testify on Epstein AP News: The IRS broke the law by disclosing confidential information to ICE 42,695 times, judge says NBC News: Trump administration live updates: Kristi Noem faces House grilling over DHS killings; Texas Senate GOP primary heads to runoff ProPublica: Trump Administration Moves to Allow Intelligence Agencies Easier Access to Law Enforcement Files NYT: Democrats Question Credentials of Armed Squad Created by Trump Ally WSJ: Son of Khamenei Is Top Contender for Supreme Leader WSJ: Iran War Live Updates: Trump ‘Actively Considering’ U.S. Role in Iran After Conflict Ends Axios: Senate rejects bid to restrain Trump's war in Iran Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The first 2026 primaries are done. In North Carolina, Democrat Roy Cooper and Republican Michael Whatley advanced to face off for retiring Sen. Thom Tillis’ seat. In Arkansas, Sen. Tom Cotton cruised to renomination, while Democrat Hallie Shoffner won with 77%. Texas was a little more dramatic. After historic turnout, a Dallas judge extended voting hours over polling confusion. Attorney General Ken Paxton — who’s on the ballot — asked the Texas Supreme Court to block it, and the court agreed. Paxton now heads to a GOP runoff with Sen. John Cornyn after neither hit 50%. Abroad, the Iran war intensified after drones struck the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh. President Donald Trump said Iran’s air defenses were “knocked out” and promised “big-scale” strikes. Sen. Richard Blumenthal warned of possible “boots on the ground.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested U.S. strikes were preemptive ahead of Israeli action — then tried to walk that back. Israel also hit a meeting of Iran’s Council of Experts during its Supreme Leader selection. Stateside, reports say some commanders framed the war to troops as “God’s divine plan.” FBI Director Kash Patel fired counterintelligence officials who had worked Trump-related cases, including Iran matters, and now faces whistleblower claims over handling of an ICE shooting investigation. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem endured a bruising hearing, with Sen. Tillis suggesting she resign. House Oversight is expanding its Epstein probe to include Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and former Goldman Sachs counsel Kathy Ruemmler. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to expand France’s nuclear arsenal, and Melania Trump chaired a UN Security Council meeting during the U.S. presidency rotation. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Primary election live updates: Texas GOP Senate headed to a runoff Axios: Iran targets U.S. allies, hits American Embassy in Riyadh The Guardian: Rubio tries to backtrack after Israel comments later contradicted by Trump trigger criticism – as it happened | US news Axios: Israel bombs council choosing Iran's next supreme leader, official says Substack: U.S. Troops Were Told Iran War Is for “Armageddon,” Return of Jesus NYT: Macron Expands French Nuclear Arsenal and Vows Protection for Neighbors CNN: Kash Patel gutted FBI counterintelligence team tasked with tracking Iranian threats days before US strikes, sources say The Daily Beast: Sinister Reason Keystone Kash Halted ICE Killing Probe Revealed NYT: Noem Defends Describing Minneapolis Protesters’ Actions as Domestic Terrorism Politico: Canceled contracts, a failed polygraph and personal disputes: Inside the turbulent tenure of Noem’s former cyber czar NYT: Lutnick Agrees to Testify in House Epstein Investigation BBC: Melania Trump chairs UN Security Council meeting on children in conflict amid Iran strikes Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The Middle East conflict has rapidly expanded to 12 countries in under 72 hours, with six U.S. troops killed after an Iranian strike hit an operations center in Kuwait. President Donald Trump signaled the fighting is far from over, saying Operation “EPIC FURY” could last four to five weeks and will continue “as long as necessary.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that “the hardest hits are yet to come,” while Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine cautioned the operation will be “difficult and gritty” and likely involve additional U.S. losses. The State Department is urging Americans to evacuate more than a dozen countries, and U.S. cities are on heightened alert, according to FBI Director Kash Patel. In a twist, the Pentagon reportedly used Anthropic’s Claude AI model in the Iran strikes — despite the administration recently clashing with the company and canceling contracts. Abroad, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Ukrainian drone experts will assist Gulf nations in intercepting Iranian drones, as Russia ramps up missile attacks on Ukraine. In Epstein news, federal prosecutors under Trump in 2019 reportedly took over New Mexico’s investigation into Jeffrey Epstein’s Zorro Ranch. The state’s attorney general has now reopened the probe, and the House Oversight Committee released video testimony from Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton. Meanwhile, the Justice Department is also expected to drop appeals defending Trump-era executive orders that targeted major law firms. And finally, Rep. Nancy Mace is under House Ethics Committee investigation over nearly $9,500 in alleged excess reimbursements. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Live updates: US Gulf allies fend off attacks as Trump warns Iran of ‘big wave’ of strikes The Guardian: Ukraine war briefing: Starmer says Ukrainian experts will help shoot down Iranian drone attacks in Gulf Axios: US cities step up security amid Iran tensions WSJ: U.S. Strikes in Middle East Use Anthropic, Hours After Trump Ban NYT: Epstein’s New Mexico Ranch Gets Scrutiny at Last. It May Be Too Late. YouTube: The Deposition of President Bill Clinton on the Epstein Probe WSJ: Trump Administration Drops Defense of Law Firm Sanctions Axios: Nancy Mace under House Ethics Committee investigation Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The U.S. and Israel launched Operation EPIC FURY, striking more than 1,000 targets across Iran. Iran retaliated widely, aiming at U.S. bases in the Gulf but also hitting civilian sites in Dubai, including the airport, the Burj Al Arab, and the Fairmont Palm Hotel. President Donald Trump said the U.S. sank nine Iranian warships, warned Americans to expect casualties and by Sunday, three U.S. service members were dead. In a major escalation, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad were reported killed, along with dozens of senior officials. Iran then closed the Strait of Hormuz, which carries about 20% of global oil supply. Oil prices are projected to jump roughly 9% as markets reopen. Members of Congress from both parties are now pushing for a War Powers Act vote, noting they were not consulted before the strikes began. At the Pentagon, AI drama escalated. After asking how its model was used in a prior operation, Anthropic lost a $200 million federal contract and was labeled a “supply chain risk” by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Within a day, the Pentagon reached a deal with OpenAI, which says it maintains similar guardrails. Separately, reporting from The Washington Post and ProPublica details a draft executive order circulated by Trump allies that claims China interfered in 2020 and could declare a national emergency affecting election administration ahead of the midterms. Former national security adviser Michael Flynn reportedly convened allies to discuss the plan. Speaker Mike Johnson warned losing the midterms would effectively end Trump’s presidency. And in Austin, Texas, two people were killed and 14 wounded in a bar shooting now being investigated by the FBI as a potential act of terrorism. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WSJ: Trump Warns More U.S. Deaths Possible as Blasts Rock Mideast for Second Day The Guardian: Oil price expected to surge after Iran strikes and strait of Hormuz closure CNN: Congress to vote on Trump’s war powers in aftermath of Iran strikes NYT: At the Pentagon, OpenAI is In and Anthropic Is Out WaPo: Trump, seeking executive power over elections, is urged to declare emergency ProPublica: Trump Officials Attended a Summit of Election Deniers Who Want the President to Take Over the Midterms WaPo: ‘It would be the end of the Trump presidency’ AP News: FBI probes Texas bar shooting that killed 2 and wounded 14 as possible terrorist act Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton testified before the House Oversight Committee in the first of two days of Epstein-related depositions involving the Clintons. The closed-door hearing was briefly paused after Rep. Lauren Boebert leaked a photo of Clinton testifying to right-wing podcaster Benny Johnson, who posted it online. Clinton later told reporters she “did not know Jeffrey Epstein” and criticized the committee for not calling individuals more prominently named in Epstein files. She also said lawmakers repeatedly questioned her about UFOs and “Pizzagate.” Meanwhile, U.S.–Iran nuclear talks resumed in Geneva, with officials describing discussions as “positive,” even as concerns linger about potential military escalation. In New York, Columbia University student Elmina Aghayeva was detained by ICE agents inside her campus housing after agents reportedly misrepresented themselves to gain entry. She was later released following intervention by NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who was meeting with Donald Trump at the White House regarding housing investment proposals. Vice President JD Vance announced a pause on $259 million in Medicaid funding allocated to Minnesota, signaling potential broader funding freezes. In Kansas, the Republican-controlled legislature overrode Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto to enact a law invalidating updated gender markers on driver’s licenses and birth certificates for transgender residents. In media and tech, Netflix withdrew its bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, clearing the way for Paramount’s higher offer. AI company Anthropic announced it is dropping its 2023 voluntary safety pledge amid competitive pressure. More than 1,800 companies have filed lawsuits seeking refunds for Trump-era tariffs ruled illegal, totaling roughly $130 billion. Finally, Trump also invoked the Defense Production Act to boost domestic production of glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, despite ongoing litigation linking the herbicide to cancer, and a new military readiness report additionally calls for major Pentagon reforms in cybersecurity, procurement, and tech modernization. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NYT: Hillary Clinton Denies Knowing Epstein or His Crimes in a Tense Deposition Axios: U.S.-Iran nuclear talks were "positive," senior U.S. official says NBC News: Columbia president says student was detained by DHS agents who claimed they were looking for missing child PBS: Mamdani pitches Trump on housing investments by mocking up newspaper with his name in the headline Axios: Trump admin cites fraud in freezing Minnesota Medicaid funds CJ Online: Kansas invalidates IDs and birth certificates of transgender people The Hollywood Reporter: Netflix Backs Out of Warner Bros. Bidding, Paramount Set to Win Time: Anthropic Drops Flagship Safety Pledge WSJ: The $130 Billion Race for Companies to Get Their Tariff Money Back NYT: Trump Order Aims to Boost Weedkiller Targeted in Health Lawsuits Axios: Exclusive: U.S. must overhaul military readiness and tech metrics, report urges Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton are set to testify before the House Oversight Committee today — with lawmakers traveling to their home in Chappaqua for the interviews. Meanwhile, after reporting revealed the DOJ appears to have withheld Epstein documents referencing past allegations involving Donald Trump, the Justice Department now says it’s “looking into” whether anything was improperly held back.  Adding to the Epstein pile, The Telegraph reports a previously overlooked Jeffrey Epstein storage unit packed with computers, VHS tapes, address books, and alleged “training manuals.” Authorities reportedly missed it during earlier searches. Consequences, however, remain selective. A former Harvard president resigned his remaining university roles and an OpenAI board seat amid Epstein scrutiny. Bill Gates, at a Gates Foundation town hall, acknowledged past affairs that Epstein later became aware of but said he “did nothing illicit” and saw nothing illicit. At the FBI, Director Kash Patel reportedly fired at least 10 agents tied to the Jack Smith classified documents investigation after learning subpoenas had included his own communications and those of White House chief of staff Susie Wiles. In other news, Trump’s surgeon general nominee, wellness influencer Casey Means, declined at her confirmation hearing to firmly reject a link between vaccines and autism and would not explicitly urge Americans to get vaccinated. “Science is never settled,” she said. That’s one way to approach public health. On the corporate-national-security beat, the Pentagon is weighing whether to designate AI company Anthropic as a potential “supply chain risk” after friction with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The label could jeopardize federal contracts — a category tech companies tend to enjoy keeping. Media merger drama continues as Paramount’s David Ellison sweetened his bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, potentially complicating Netflix’s existing deal. And in quieter political news, Democrats flipped or held three state House special elections — one in Maine and two in Pennsylvania — expanding their Pennsylvania majority to 102–98, with one race outperforming 2024 margins by 34 points. There are three more Republican-held seats up next. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Bill and Hillary Clinton, battle-tested, gear up for another Washington fight AP News: Justice Department says it's reviewing whether any Epstein-related records were mistakenly withheld The Independent: Contents of Epstein’s secret storage locker revealed: Sex slave manuals and photos of naked women Axios: Summers leaves Harvard as Epstein reckoning rocks academia WSJ: Bill Gates apologizes to foundation staff over Epstein ties CNN: FBI Director Kash Patel ousts personnel tied to Trump classified documents probe AP News: Surgeon general nominee faces sharp questions about vaccines, birth control and qualifications Axios: Exclusive: Hegseth gives Anthropic until Friday to back down on AI safeguards The Hollywood Reporter: Warner Bros. Discovery Says It’s Reviewing Sweetened Paramount Bid WGAL: Pa. Democrats hold House majority after special election wins Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The State of the Union ran a record-breaking 1 hour and 47 minutes, topping Donald Trump’s own mark from last year. He opened with the men’s Olympic hockey team, then rolled through familiar theatrics. Trump announced Vice President James Donald Bowman will lead a new “war on fraud,” said he’ll continue tariffs despite the Supreme Court’s ruling against them, teased a tax cut plan designed to bypass Congress, and gave a noncommittal “we’ll see” on war with Iran if nuclear talks fail. Dozens of Democrats skipped the address. Those who attended brought guests including Americans affected by ICE enforcement and survivors connected to Jeffrey Epstein, turning the gallery into its own counterprogramming. Speaking of Jeffrey Epstein, NPR reported the Justice Department appears to have withheld dozens of pages from its Epstein file release, including documents referencing past allegations involving Trump. The gaps were identified through FBI logs and serial numbers. In Norway, former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland — an Epstein associate — was hospitalized after an apparent suicide attempt days after police opened a corruption probe into his ties to Epstein. In other news, U.S. Ambassador to France Charles Kushner was briefly sidelined diplomatically after failing to appear at the French Foreign Ministry over a U.S. statement criticizing political violence in Lyon. He later smoothed things over with a phone call. Marking four years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán pledged to block $105 billion in EU aid to Ukraine, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested Hungary could receive relief from certain U.S. sanctions. The Wall Street Journal reports the administration is considering requiring banks to collect and verify customers’ citizenship status — a shift from current anti–money laundering rules. As if it wasn’t chaotic enough, we’ve been blessed by 2 whistleblowers. A former ICE instructor told Congress the agency has cut constitutional and firearms training, and separate reporting alleges FBI response delays to a December mass shooting were tied to Kash Patel’s jet use. And in Texas, Rep. Tony Gonzales is facing calls to resign following reports of an alleged affair with a staffer who later died by suicide. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: House Republican joins Democrats in SOTU Epstein protests NPR: Justice Department withheld and removed some Epstein files related to Trump The Statesman: Former Norwegian PM Thorbjorn Jagland hospitalised after ‘suicide attempt’ amid Epstein-linked corruption probe AP News: US ambassador to France defuses spat with Paris over US remarks WaPo: Hungary blocks Europe’s aid for Ukraine on war’s fourth anniversary WSJ: Trump Administration Considers Requiring Banks to Collect Citizenship Information MS Now: ICE whistleblower comes forward to testify before Congress Express News: Tony Gonzales had affair with aide who set herself on fire, ex-staffer says Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Tonight is Donald Trump’s State Of The Union. Dozens of Democrats are skipping, and there will be three official rebuttals: Gov. Abigail Spanberger (main), Sen. Alex Padilla (Spanish-language), and Rep. Summer Lee (progressive). In Mexico, the head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel was killed in a military operation aided by the US. The cartel is responding by torching buses and businesses and clashing with security forces.. Some U.S. flights to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara were suspended, and the State Department activated a 24/7 hotline for stranded Americans. Judge Aileen Cannon blocked release of part of Special Counsel Jack Smith’s report on Trump’s handling of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago, citing “manifest injustice” to Trump. In other news, Trump envoy Paolo Zampolli is pushing for Russia’s return to global competitions despite Ukraine war–related bans. A Russian team will compete at next month’s Paralympics, prompting backlash and a Ukrainian boycott of the opening ceremony. In the UK, former ambassador Peter Mandelson was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in office over alleged information-sharing with Jeffrey Epstein. A Politico-reported analysis found 18,000+ bots amplified Nicki Minaj’s recent pro–White House posts, especially when labeled toxic.  Finally, a PRRI survey found about one-third of Americans are sympathetic to Christian nationalism, while 54% call Trump a “dangerous dictator” and 42% see him as a “strong leader.” and Providence, Rhode Island just set a single-storm snowfall record at 33 inches, beating 1978.  Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: Democratic response to Trump's SOTU becomes a crowded affair  CNN: US citizens in parts of Mexico urged to still shelter in place as nation on edge following drug lord’s killing  MS Now: Judge Cannon blocks release of Jack Smith’s classified documents report NYT: Trump Official Backs Russia’s Return to Global Sports  BBC: Lord Mandelson arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office Politico” Nicki Minaj’s social media propped up by thousands of bots, analysis finds USA Today: Is or should America be a Christian nation? One-third say 'yes'  NYT: Monday’s Snowfall Shatters a Record in Rhode Island  Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: On Friday, the Supreme Court ruled 6–3 that Donald Trump’s tariffs are unconstitutional under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The dissenters: Thomas, Alito, and Kavanaugh. Trump responded by blasting Justices Gorsuch and Barrett as “disloyal” and insisting he can “destroy trade” but not “charge a little fee.” He then proposed a global 10% tariff workaround — later bumped to 15%. Meanwhile, Americans are still effectively paying 9.1% in tariffs, and the Court didn’t address what happens to the $133 billion already collected. Over the weekend, Trump announced he’s sending a “great hospital boat” to Greenland, despite Denmark saying it wasn’t informed and doesn’t need it. The Navy ships in question are reportedly in Alabama. Sure. On the Russia beat, a Trump ally signed a natural gas deal with Russian energy giant Novatek despite U.S. sanctions tied to Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine — the first known new U.S.–Russia venture of its kind. Separately, ICE and other agencies contracted with phone-forensics firm Oxygen Forensics, which has ties to sanctioned former FSB figures. At the same time, DHS has issued hundreds of subpoenas to tech companies seeking identifying information on users critical of ICE. Trump is also pressuring Netflix to remove Susan Rice from its board amid maneuvering around a media acquisition deal that could affect CNN. Casual. In Florida, Secret Service agents shot and killed a 21-year-old man who allegedly breached the perimeter of Mar-a-Lagowith what appeared to be a shotgun and fuel can; the investigation is ongoing. Meanwhile, Florida lawmakers approved renaming Palm Beach International Airport after Trump — a $5.5 million rebrand. And finally, taxpayers will now provide new Secret Service agents with two tailored suits upon graduation. Inflation hits us all differently. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NBC News: Trump raises global tariff to 15% shortly after implementing reworked 10% levy NYT: Denmark Rejects Trump’s Plan to Send Hospital Boat to Greenland NYT: With ‘Tremendous’ Deals at Stake, Trump Is Bringing Russia in From the Cold Substack: ICE Is Using Phone Extraction Software Linked to Russia’s FSB-Connected Network Military: DHS Collecting Big Tech Users' Personal Data, Issuing Subpoenas For ICE-Related Criticism Financial Times: Trump demands Netflix remove former Obama official from board NBC: Law enforcement shoots and kills armed man trying to enter Mar-a-Lago, Secret Service says Politico: Now boarding: Florida Legislature approves renaming Palm Beach airport after Trump NYT: Homeland Security to Shut TSA PreCheck and Global Entry at Airports CNN: Exclusive: Secret Service will offer tailored suits to new protective detail agents Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: In a genuinely shocking development, Prince Andrew was arrested in the UK on suspicion of misconduct in public office — a very restrained way of saying he allegedly shared sensitive government information with Jeffrey Epstein. It happened on his birthday, and King Charles said the law will take its course. It’s the first arrest of a senior royal since 1647, which is… not recent. Meanwhile in DC, Andrew and Epstein’s former bestie Donald Trump convened his self-styled “Board of Peace,” which he continues pitching as a potential replacement for the UN. The focus was Gaza: five countries pledged troops for a stabilization force, nine pledged a combined $7 billion — about 10% of the $70 billion estimated for rebuilding. Trump added a promised $10 billion from the US, source of funds TBD. Hamas has not fully agreed to disarm, but sure. On Iran, Trump warned that Tehran has 10 days to strike a nuclear deal or “bad things will happen,” then extended it to 15 by nightfall.  In South Korea, former president Yoon Suk Yeol was sentenced to life in prison for his 2024 insurrection attempt and brief martial law stunt. The court said it damaged the military’s neutrality and the country’s credibility. Consequences.  Back home, DHS has launched a nationwide review of naturalized citizens who may have voted before becoming citizens, requiring field offices to justify decisions not to prosecute. The administration is also reportedly exploring ways to criminalize observing ICE agents, despite most related arrests resulting in no charges. And finally, the EEOC is suing a Coca-Cola distributor over a women-only networking event, alleging discrimination. The company says it followed the law.  Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Former Prince Andrew arrested and held for hours on suspicion of misconduct over ties to Epstein AP News: Trump heads to Georgia after securing Board of Peace pledges for Gaza relief funds CNN: Live updates: Trump indicates Iran decision within days and says Board of Peace will be ‘looking over’ UN The Guardian: South Korea’s former president Yoon Suk Yeol jailed for life for leading insurrection MS Now: White House directing DHS to hunt for voter fraud by naturalized citizens: Sources NPR: The Trump administration is increasingly trying to criminalize observing ICE Axios: Federal agency sues Coca-Cola bottler over work event that excluded men Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Billionaire retail mogul Les Wexner testified before Congress about his ties to Jeffrey Epstein — but instead of appearing on Capitol Hill, lawmakers traveled to his Ohio mansion, where the 88-year-old was deposed with family members present. Notably, no Republicans on the House Oversight Committee showed up. Wexner, who once granted Epstein power of attorney, said he was “naive, gullible, and foolish” and claimed he was conned, despite building a multibillion-dollar empire. It wasn’t the only billionaire hot seat of the day. Mark Zuckerberg testified in a landmark trial against Meta over allegations the company knowingly made its platforms addictive and harmful to children. The case could influence more than 1,500 pending social media addiction lawsuits. Meanwhile, The New York Times reported Meta has set aside $65 million to back state-level politicians friendly to the AI industry through new super PACs in Illinois and Texas — timing that feels… strategic. In federal agency cleanup news, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration removed a webpage warning against bogus autism “treatments” like chlorine dioxide and raw camel milk, calling it routine housekeeping. On the foreign policy front, Donald Trump met with advisers to discuss Iran, as mixed signals emerge from nuclear talks in Geneva and two U.S. aircraft carriers sit in the Mediterranean. The administration also plans to withdraw roughly 1,000 U.S. troops from Syria over the next two months, though officials say the move is “conditions based.” Meanwhile, a potential U.S. arms sale to Taiwan is reportedly in limbo ahead of Trump’s planned meeting with Xi Jinping in Beijing. Back home, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the city will resume clearing homeless encampments following at least 19 deaths during a recent cold snap, with outreach led by homeless services rather than police. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Billionaire Les Wexner says he was 'duped' by adviser Jeffrey Epstein, 'a world-class con man' Axios: Zuckerberg testifies in landmark social media addiction trial NYT: Meta Begins $65 Million Election Push to Advance A.I. Agenda ProPublica: Chlorine Dioxide, Raw Camel Milk: The FDA No Longer Warns Against These and Other Ineffective Autism Treatments Axios: Trump meets with top Iran advisers as war threat grows WSJ: U.S. Is Withdrawing All Forces From Syria, Officials Say WSJ: U.S. Arms Sale to Taiwan in Limbo Amid Pressure Campaign From China AP News: Mamdani reboots homeless encampment sweeps in New York City Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: New Mexico has approved a bipartisan “truth commission” to investigate alleged sexual abuse and trafficking at Jeffrey Epstein’s Zorro Ranch near Santa Fe. The commission will have subpoena power, a $2 million budget funded by a Deutsche Bank settlement, and will operate through 2026. Meanwhile, Epstein’s former benefactor Les Wexner is set to testify before the House Oversight Committee behind closed doors at his Ohio home. Early voting is underway in Texas’ Senate primaries after late-night host Stephen Colbert said CBS forced him to cancel an interview with Democratic candidate James Talarico following FCC guidance on political airtime. In media shakeups, Anderson Cooper is leaving CBS’ 60 Minutes, and independent journalist Georgia Fort pleaded not guilty to federal felony charges tied to covering an anti-ICE protest. On the corporate front, Warner Bros. Discovery reopened talks with Paramount over a $77.9 billion acquisition bid as Netflix circles with a competing offer. The Trump administration is reportedly reviewing its relationship with AI company Anthropic after questions about military use of its Claude model, while Palantir sued Swiss outlet Republik over an investigative report. Meta is facing scrutiny over AI chatbot safety for minors and a patent for AI systems that simulate deceased users. EU regulators are investigating Shein under the Digital Services Act, and the Trump administration has spent at least $40 million deporting migrants to third countries, including Cameroon. Nuclear talks between U.S. and Iranian officials in Geneva reportedly made progress toward a potential new deal. In Argentina, the Senate passed sweeping labor reforms sparking nationwide strike threats. Trump-linked businesses also filed trademarks for “President Donald J. Trump International Airport.” Civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson has died at 84. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: The Guardian: New Mexico approves truth commission on alleged Jeffrey Epstein ranch abuse Dispatch: What do we know about Les Wexner and Epstein as deposition approaches? NYT: Colbert Slams Trump Administration After CBS Pulls Talarico Interview Status: Cooper’s Final Minutes Minnesota Reformer: Journalist Georgia Fort pleads not guilty to felony charges stemming from church protest WSJ: Warner Reopens Talks With Paramount After Sweetened Offer Axios: Exclusive: Pentagon threatens Anthropic punishment European Journalist: Switzerland: US analytics firm takes Republik magazine to court – European Federation of Journalists Mashable: Meta wins patent for AI that could post for dead social media users Axios: Unreleased Meta product didn't protect kids from exploitation, tests found PBS News: Shein under investigation in EU over illegal products and addictive online design features AP News: More third-country nationals have been deported by the US to Cameroon, lawyers tell Axios: U.S. and Iran say progress made in Geneva nuclear talks Reuters: Argentine unions to hold general strike over labor reform bill Gerben Law: Trump’s Private Company Files Trademark for ‘President Donald J. Trump International Airport’ Axios: Civil rights icon Jesse Jackson dies at 84 Subscribe to the Betches News Room and join the Morning Announcements group chat. Go to: ⁠⁠betchesnews.substack.com⁠⁠ Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: The fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein files escalated after the Department of Justice released a letter signed by Deputy AG Todd Blanche outlining redactions and listing “politically exposed” names — mostly celebrities and public figures already publicly referenced. Attorney General Pam Bondi said no additional files will be released, despite reports that millions of pages remain sealed. Consequences are, at least, unfolding abroad. Thomas Pritzker stepped down from Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Buckingham Palace backed a police investigation into Prince Andrew, while French authorities assembled a team to examine related allegations. Investigations also involve former Norwegian PM Thorbjørn Jagland and port executive Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem. European leaders are weighing alternatives to Visa and Mastercard over economic security concerns, as the EU and Indo-Pacific partners — with Canadian PM Mark Carney — discuss forming a major trade bloc. At the Munich Security Conference, Secretary of State Marco Rubio sought to reassure allies amid doubts about U.S. commitment to NATO, reportedly skipping EU leadership meetings while meeting Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Slovakia’s Robert Fico. A joint European report concluded Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was killed with a rare synthetic toxin; Russia rejected the findings. In domestic news, ICE is planning a $38 billion detention expansion, including a Georgia warehouse purchased from Moscow-linked PNK Group at a steep markup. A separate report detailed turbulence inside DHS under Secretary Kristi Noem, including private jet travel and the firing — then rehiring — of a Coast Guard pilot over a misplaced blanket. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the Pentagon will end graduate partnerships with Harvard University and review similar programs. A federal grand jury declined to indict Senators Mark Kelly and Elissa Slotkin over a video about refusing illegal orders. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Labor Statistics revised 2024–2025 job numbers down by more than 1.5 million combined — the largest downward revision in decades. And finally, former President Barack Obama clarified he’s seen no evidence of extraterrestrials visiting Earth. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: The Daily Beast: Bondi Desperately Tries to Bury Epstein Files for Good—Again ​​WSJ: Thomas Pritzker, Named in Epstein Files, Retires as Hyatt Executive Chairman Reuters: European figures caught in web of Epstein ties  NYT: Europe Worries Trump Poses Threat to Its Financial and Tech Sovereignty News 18: Mark Carney Leads Push To Form Major Trade Bloc As Trump Threatens Canada With Tariffs: Report NBC News: Warmer words but relations remain frosty between the U.S. and its old friends in Europe Axios: What we know about rare poison Russia is accused of using on Navalny WaPo: ICE plans to spend $38B on warehouse conversions WSJ: A Pilot Fired Over Kristi Noem’s Missing Blanket and the Constant Chaos Inside DHS CNN: Pentagon may bar tuition aid for top universities in Hegseth’s crackdown on ‘biased’ schools CNBC: DC grand jury declines to indict Sens. Kelly, Slotkin for seditious conspiracy NYT: Job Growth Was Overstated, New Data Shows CNN: Obama clarifies alien comments after telling podcast ‘they’re real’ Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Early voting is officially underway for North Carolina’s March 3 Senate primary — your reminder that primary season is here and checking your state’s election dates is now mandatory civic behavior. The timing matters, because Washington is doing the most: the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is likely to shut down after Senate Democrats blocked a funding bill that didn’t include limits on ICE practices. If it happens, the shutdown would also hit the TSA, FEMA, and the United States Coast Guard — just as Congress leaves town for a Presidents’ Day recess.  Meanwhile, border czar Tom Homan claims ICE is ending deployments to Minnesota, though reporting suggests those deployments may not have actually ended — or possibly started. At the same time, Customs and Border Protection is moving ahead with a $225,000 contract for Clearview AI, a facial recognition tool built on billions of scraped images, now approved for “tactical targeting” and network analysis.  That mysterious whistleblower complaint involving Tulsi Gabbard also landed exactly where everyone expected: it centered on her burying an NSA report about a Trump associate’s call with a foreign intelligence agency. Just as we guessed…last week, that associate was Jared Kushner, and the call reportedly involved Iran. Benjamin Netanyahu met with Donald Trump at the White House, after which Trump publicly scolded Isaac Herzog for not pardoning Netanyahu over corruption charges — while brushing off questions about responsibility for October 7. Elsewhere, X, owned by Elon Musk, is under scrutiny after reports it sold premium accounts to Iranian regime officials despite U.S. sanctions. And finally, Gallup announced its ending monthly presidential approval ratings after nearly 90 years. The last one, taken in December, clocked in at 36%. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: Inside North Carolina's 2026 high-stakes primary races Politico: DHS shutdown all but certain after failed Senate vote - Live Updates NYT: Trump Administration to End Surge of Immigration Agents in Minnesota Wired:: CBP Signs Clearview AI Deal to Use Face Recognition for ‘Tactical Targeting’ WSJ: Gabbard Whistleblower Complaint Based on Intercepted Conversation About Jared Kushner Axios: Trump says Israeli president "should be ashamed" for not pardoning Netanyahu Wired: Elon Musk’s X Appears to Be Violating US Sanctions by Selling Premium Accounts to Iranian Leaders NYT: Gallup Will No Longer Track Presidential Approval Ratings Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Attorney General Pam Bondi’s House Oversight testimony devolved into a chaotic shouting match, yielding few answers about the DOJ’s handling of the Epstein files. Bondi repeatedly deflected, bizarrely citing stock market highs as a more appropriate topic, and accused Rep. Thomas Massie of having “Trump Derangement Syndrome.” The most notable takeaway: Bondi appeared to confirm the DOJ tracked which Epstein-related documents Democratic committee members reviewed, raising fresh concerns about internal surveillance. In Congress, six House Republicans joined Democrats to pass a resolution blocking Trump’s Canada tariffs, which were imposed without congressional approval. The Senate passed a similar measure earlier, but Trump can veto it, and the Supreme Court—currently reviewing the tariffs—has yet to rule. Several quieter policy shifts drew scrutiny. The Institute of Museum and Library Services revised federal grant guidelines to prioritize “uplifting and positive” patriotic narratives aligned with Trump executive orders, signaling a shift away from apolitical, merit-based funding. In New York, the Pride flag was removed from the Stonewall National Monument following a federal ban on “non-agency” flags in national parks. Environmental rollbacks accelerated as the EPA moved to reverse its finding that greenhouse gases endanger public health, while the Federal Judicial Center removed climate science guidance from its judges’ manual after political pressure. ProPublica also reported the U.S. Forest Service concealed knowledge that firefighters’ gear contained cancer-linked PFAS chemicals. Finally, a deep-red Oklahoma special election delivered a surprise: Democrats overperformed by roughly 30 points, marking their strongest showing in the district in nearly two decades. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NBC News: Pam Bondi hearing devolves into shouting matches with Democrats over Epstein and DOJ prosecutions NYT: House Votes to Cancel Trump’s Canada Tariffs ProPublica: Institute of Museum and Library Services Grant Guidelines Take Political Turn Under Trump NYT: Pride Flag Is Removed From Stonewall Monument After Trump Directive Axios: EPA's "endangerment finding" rescission looms ProPublica: Federal Judicial Center Pulls Climate Change Chapter From Official Manual for U.S. Judges ProPublica: Firefighters Wore Gear Containing “Forever Chemicals.” The Forest Service Knew and Stayed Silent for Years. Newsweek: Democrat Overperforms by 30 Points in Deep Red Oklahoma Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Congress is scrambling to keep up with Europe’s Epstein accountability push. Rep. Ro Khanna publicly named six men he says were “likely incriminated” in the Epstein files, including retail billionaire Les Wexner, UAE hotel developer Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, an Italian politician, a Russian author, a former NYPD detective tied to an escort ring, and one largely unknown figure. Lawmakers say more names are coming. Members who reviewed the files also claim there are over a million mentions of Trump, documents contradicting his claim that he kicked Epstein out of Mar-a-Lago, and evidence showing Trump called Palm Beach police in 2006 to report Epstein — portraying himself as disturbed and uninvolved. It was a packed day on Capitol Hill. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick admitted he did visit Epstein’s island with his family after previously denying any social contact. Immigration officials testified ahead of a possible government shutdown, defending ICE while refusing to directly address the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti. Lawmakers also learned only about a quarter of ICE agents have body cameras, ICE wants more funding, and the agency plans to operate at the 2026 World Cup. In related news, ProPublica reported more than 18,000 habeas petitions filed this year by immigrants alleging illegal detention — driven by mass detention policies rather than allowing people to remain in their communities during proceedings. Elsewhere, Trump’s DOJ asked the Supreme Court to overturn Steve Bannon’s contempt conviction, while a Trump-appointed judge blocked the administration from forcing states to hand over voter data. Trump also criticized Netanyahu’s West Bank settlement expansion — while simultaneously floating another aircraft carrier deployment toward Iran. In election news, progressive organizer Analilia Mejia won New Jersey’s 11th District Democratic primary, defeating an AIPAC-backed field. And in Nebraska, lawmakers capped things off by passing a bill cutting minimum wages for teenage workers. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NYT: Grand Jury Rebuffs Justice Dept. Attempt to Indict 6 Democrats in Congress Politico: House Dem identifies ‘wealthy, powerful men’ DOJ redacted in Epstein files - Live Updates NYT: Former Palm Beach Police Chief Said Trump Told Him ‘Everyone’ Knew About Epstein in 2006 ABC News: Howard Lutnick, Trump's commerce secretary, says he visited Epstein's island Axios: ICE director grilled over Trump's immigration crackdown Axios: ICE will be at the World Cup, director says  ProPublica: Habeas Petitions Filed in Second Trump Term Hit Historic High WaPo: DOJ seeks to undo Steve Bannon’s conviction for defying Jan. 6 subpoena NYT: Michigan Judge Rebukes Justice Department’s Effort to Obtain Voter Data Axios: Exclusive: Trump says he opposes Israeli annexation steps in West Bank Axios: Exclusive: Trump says he might send second carrier to strike Iran if talks fail  NYT: New Jersey 11th Congressional District Special Primary Election Results 2026 Nebraska Public Media: Legislature passes minimum wage decrease for teen workers Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: Ghislaine Maxwell invoked the Fifth during her House Oversight testimony, but her attorney said she would testify publicly if President Donald Trump grants her a pardon — claiming she could conveniently clear both Trump and Bill Clinton. The White House says a pardon isn’t being discussed “at this time,” which is doing a lot of work. Reps. Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie were allowed to view the unredacted Epstein files at the DOJ for two hours and said they spotted at least six “likely incriminating” names. They didn’t say who, but more lawmakers are expected to review the files soon. In the UK, King Charles said he would support investigations into Prince Andrew, including allegations he shared confidential trade information with Epstein, adding pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer as the scandal spreads across Europe. Meanwhile, the US State Department is launching a new program to fund MAGA-aligned think tanks across Europe ahead of America’s 250th anniversary, while Israel approved new measures expanding control over parts of the West Bank — in violation of the Oslo Accords — ahead of yet another Netanyahu visit to DC. Back home, Dr. Mehmet Oz urged Americans to get vaccinated for measles amid the largest outbreak in decades, a federal judge allowed Trump to keep $16 billion in Gateway tunnel funding frozen for now, and Trump attacked US Olympic skier Hunter Hess for expressing “mixed emotions” about representing the country — as Lindsey Vonn fractured her shin days after tearing her ACL. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Ghislaine Maxwell avoids answering questions in House deposition AP News: Palace says King Charles III will support police assessing former Prince Andrew's Epstein links Financial Times: US government to fund Maga-aligned think-tanks and charities in Europe NYT: Israel Gives Itself More Control Over Occupied West Bank NYT: Oz Offers Forceful Call for Measles Vaccination NYT: Gateway Funding Doesn’t Have to Be Immediately Restored, Judge Says Axios: Trump calls Olympic skier with mixed feelings "a real loser" AP News: US snowboard star Chloe Kim calls for unity after Trump bashes teammate over immigrant crackdown AP News: Lindsey Vonn says she has complex tibia fracture requiring multiple surgeries after Olympic crash Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s Headlines: This weekend was a lot. The Seattle Seahawks won the Super Bowl, the Winter Olympics kicked off in Milan, and Vice President JD Vance managed to make himself the main character by getting booed at the opening ceremony and delaying U.S. figure skater Alysa Liu with his massive motorcade — after reportedly flying a plane full of food to Italy, of all places. Embarrassing, but not even close to the most serious news. The FBI has invited election officials from all 50 states to an unusual “election briefing” later this month, amid growing concerns about Trump’s repeated calls to nationalize elections. At the same time, DHS has reportedly used administrative subpoenas to try to obtain user data on critics of the Trump administration, including people sharing information about ICE activity or emailing officials to oppose deportations. The Tulsi Gabbard saga also deepened, with new reporting revealing that she allegedly blocked the NSA from circulating a report about a suspicious phone call involving someone tied to foreign intelligence and a person close to Trump — a move that ultimately triggered the whistleblower complaint now under scrutiny. Meanwhile, fallout from the Epstein files continued, with multiple high-profile figures in the U.S. and Europe facing investigations, resignations, or calls to step aside. European governments in particular have moved quickly, launching probes into Epstein’s ties to human trafficking, Russian intelligence, and elite institutions — while U.S. consequences remain scarce. Elsewhere, China announced a renewed crackdown on crypto trading loopholes, reports emerged that U.S. service members were pressured to attend screenings of a Melania Trump documentary, the Trump administration allegedly threatened to freeze $16 billion in infrastructure funding unless major transit hubs were renamed after the president, and New York City lawmakers overrode a veto to strengthen labor protections for Uber and Lyft drivers.  Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: The Daily Beast: Vance’s Lavish Motorcade Wreaks Havoc at Winter Olympics NBC News: FBI invites state election officials to an 'unusual' briefing on the midterms The Guardian: NSA detected foreign intelligence phone call about a person close to Trump | US national security Tech Crunch: Homeland Security is trying to force tech companies to hand over data about Trump critics CNN: LA Olympics chief faces calls to resign after flirty emails with Ghislaine Maxwell are revealed in Epstein files Bloomberg: World Economic Forum Opens Probe Into CEO Over Epstein Meetings X: US Ambassador to Poland Yahoo Finance: China Reiterates Crypto Ban While Cracking Down on Tokenized Assets and Yuan Stablecoins The Daily Beast: Military Pressured to See ‘Melania’ Against Their Will Rolling Stone: 'Chaos': Behind the Scenes of Amazon's Melania Trump Doc NYT: Officials Pressed Schumer to Help Name Penn Station and Dulles Airport for Trump Gothamist: City Council puts limits on how often Uber, Lyft can boot drivers off their apps Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices