Today’s Headlines: The year started with tragedy as a man drove into a crowd on Bourbon Street, killing 10 and injuring 31, in an apparent ISIS-inspired attack. Hours later, a Tesla Cybertruck exploded outside Trump International in Las Vegas, injuring 7. Though connections between the two incidents are unclear, both vehicles came from the same rental company. Meanwhile, the US Treasury revealed a major cyberattack by a Chinese state-sponsored group, norovirus cases are surging nationwide, and Donald Trump lost his federal appeal, leaving him liable for $5 million to E. Jean Carroll. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CBS News: At least 15 killed on Bourbon Street in New Orleans after driver intentionally slams truck into crowd; dozens injured NBC News: Tesla Cybertruck bursts into flames outside Trump hotel in Las Vegas, killing one NBC News: U.S. Treasury says its computers were hacked by a Chinese 'threat actor' in 'major incident' NY Times: Norovirus Outbreaks Surge Nationwide AP News: An appeals court upholds a $5 million award in a sexual abuse verdict against President-elect Trump Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: Former President Jimmy Carter passed away at 100, leaving behind a legacy as the longest-living U.S. president. Meanwhile, MAGA infighting escalated over immigration policies, particularly H-1B visas, with tech leaders like Elon Musk clashing with traditionalists. Trump eventually backed the visas, citing their benefit to his businesses. Homelessness surged by 18% in 2024, disproportionately affecting Black Americans and families, though veteran homelessness declined. Medicare's new $2,000 cap on prescription drug costs begins in January, saving millions. Mexico unveiled an app to aid migrants under Trump’s looming immigration policies. A deadly storm system spawned tornadoes across the South, killing four. Lastly, a tragic search for Sasquatch in Oregon resulted in two men’s deaths, proving some myths come at a high cost. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Live updates: Former President Jimmy Carter dies at 100 CNN: Trump defends foreign worker visas, siding with Musk amid MAGA backlash AP News: US homelessness up 18% as affordable housing remains out of reach for many people Axios: Medicare $2,000 prescription drug cap starts Jan. 1 Axios: Mexico creating app for migrants to send alerts if detained in US NBC News: Four killed as storms continue to threaten the South CNN: 2 Oregon men die from exposure in a forest after they went out to look for Sasquatch Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: Israel launched airstrikes in Yemen targeting Houthi-controlled sites after recent missile and drone attacks, while Biden condemned Russia’s Christmas Day assault on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. U.S. universities urged international students to return early ahead of Trump’s inauguration, fearing potential travel bans. New York passed the Climate Change Superfund Act, requiring major polluters to pay for climate damages. In Washington, a bird flu outbreak at a wildlife sanctuary killed 20 large mammals, including over half the big cats. Lastly, Marianne Williamson announced her candidacy for DNC chair, pushing for party reform to avoid electoral setbacks. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: Israel Bombs Yemeni Airport and Ports After Houthi Missile Launches Axios: Biden pledges more U.S. arms to Ukraine after Russia's Christmas attack CNN: US universities urge international students to return to campus before Trump inauguration NY Times: Hochul Signs Law That Penalizes Companies for Greenhouse Gas Emissions NPR: Bird flu has killed 20 big cats including cougars at a U.S. wildlife sanctuary Politico: Marianne Williamson launches bid for DNC chair Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: President Biden commuted the sentences of 37 federal death row inmates to life in prison, excluding the Tree of Life shooter, the Mother Emanuel shooter, and the Boston Marathon Bomber. On Christmas Eve, he signed 50 bills into law, including measures to prevent institutional child abuse, combat hazing, and deny pensions to corrupt lawmakers. One bill officially designated the bald eagle as the U.S. national bird. Luigi Mangione pleaded not guilty in New York to charges of first-degree murder and terrorism after his extradition from Pennsylvania. President-elect Trump’s transition team is preparing to withdraw the U.S. from the World Health Organization and revive his bid to purchase Greenland, both initiatives he pursued during his first term. A Kazakhstan plane crash that killed 38 may have been caused by Russian fire targeting Ukrainian drones. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CBS News: These 3 inmates are still on federal death row after Biden commuted 37 of 40 death sentences CBS News: Biden signs 50 bills into law on Christmas Eve NBC News: Luigi Mangione pleads not guilty to N.Y. state charges in killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Reuters: Trump transition team plans immediate WHO withdrawal, expert says AP News: Trump again calls to buy Greenland after eyeing Canada and the Panama Canal The Times: Holes in fuselage suggest Russians shot down Azerbaijan jet Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: Congress narrowly avoided a government shutdown with a temporary budget through March 14th, while 81-year-old Rep. Kay Granger was revealed to have been living in assisted care since July. A new GOP Senate caucus aligns with RFK Jr.'s health agenda ahead of his unconfirmed HHS nomination. In Germany, a man killed five and injured 200 in a Christmas market car attack, reportedly tied to anti-immigration motives. Meanwhile, the IRS is sending $1,400 payments to 1M Americans who missed COVID stimulus funds. Lastly, Party City filed for bankruptcy again, announcing the closure of its 700 stores. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Government shutdown is averted just after deadline as Congress rejects Trump's debt limit demands Axios: Congress' age debate reignites over member living in retirement home Politico: Senate Republicans launch ‘Make America Healthy Again’ Caucus - Live Updates NBC News: German Christmas market attack suspect faces 5 murder counts, aggravated assault charges AP News: A million taxpayers will soon receive up to $1,400 from the IRS. Who are they and why now? AP News: Party City to close its stores as company files for bankruptcy Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: Luigi Mangione, accused of a high-profile murder, has been extradited to New York and indicted on federal charges, adding to existing state and Pennsylvania charges. Meanwhile, Georgia's Fani Willis was removed from Trump’s election interference case, with a new prosecutor to be appointed. In other news, Amazon faces its largest-ever strike, as nearly 10,000 unionized workers walk out over stalled negotiations. Additionally, the FAA has restricted drone flights in New Jersey over critical infrastructure, despite no confirmed safety threats and in France, 51 men were convicted in a shocking rape case involving a woman drugged and exploited by her husband. The survivor went public to raise awareness for sexual assault victims. Finally, Congress remains deadlocked on a government funding bill. A Trump-endorsed compromise was rejected, leaving a shutdown likely as debates over spending and debt limits continue. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NBC News: UnitedHealthcare CEO murder suspect Luigi Mangione hit with federal charges in New York after waiving extradition CBS News: Georgia appeals court removes Fani Willis from Trump 2020 election case ABC News: Teamsters begin 'largest strike' against Amazon, accusing company of 'insatiable greed' NPR: Federal regulators prohibit drone flights in dozens of locations across New Jersey CNN: Pelicot mass rape trial ends with 51 guilty verdicts - and fears justice hasn’t been served CNN: Live updates: Government shutdown looms, Trump transition news Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: The Supreme Court will decide if a law banning TikTok by January 19 unless sold to a U.S. company violates free speech. TikTok and content creators argue it does, while the government cites security concerns over Chinese surveillance. The Fed cut interest rates by 0.25% but warned of fewer cuts in 2025, raising inflation projections. Markets reacted sharply, with the Dow dropping over 1,100 points. A government shutdown is likely as President-elect Trump opposes a stopgap funding bill. Meanwhile, the House Ethics Committee plans to release a report on Matt Gaetz, and Rep. Barry Loudermilk is calling for Liz Cheney’s prosecution over her January 6th work. Finally, California declared a state of emergency over a bird flu outbreak hitting dairy cattle, now spread to 16 states. The CDC reported the first severe U.S. human case in Louisiana. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WSJ: Supreme Court to Consider TikTok Ban Axios: Fed lowers rates, signals fewer cuts ahead in '25 AP News: Stock market today: Wall Street sinks after Fed signals fewer rate cuts in 2025 Axios: Trump opposes Johnson's spending deal to avert government shutdown WA Post: House Ethics Committee set to release investigation report on Matt Gaetz AP News: Republicans side with Trump after Jan. 6 investigation, target Liz Cheney NY Times: California Declares an Emergency Over Bird Flu in Cattle - The New York Times Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: Donald Trump is suing pollster J. Ann Selzer, the Des Moines Register, and its parent company Gannett, claiming their Iowa poll showing Kamala Harris ahead was intentionally misleading. He’s seeking damages and wants the paper barred from publishing “deceptive” polls. Trump also said he plans to pursue more legal action against media outlets and social media influencers for defamation. Meanwhile, a judge denied Trump’s request to overturn his guilty verdict in the New York hush money case, ruling the charges don’t qualify for presidential immunity. President Biden threw his support behind banning congressional stock trading, but no action is likely anytime soon. Over in Congress, Rep. Gerry Connolly beat AOC in a vote for ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, a win backed by Nancy Pelosi. In New York, Luigi Mangione was indicted on first-degree murder and terrorism charges for what prosecutors say was a planned and targeted killing. If convicted, he could face life in prison without parole. Lastly, police identified the shooter at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, as a 15-year-old female student. Investigators believe the attack was indiscriminate and driven by “a combination of factors.” Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Trump sues Des Moines Register and top pollster over final Iowa survey Axios: Trump ramps up legal threats against news outlets Axios: Judge rejects Trump's request to overturn hush money conviction AP News: Joe Biden calls for ban on congressional stock trading Axios: AOC defeated by Connolly in battle for Oversight role WA Post: UnitedHealthcare CEO shooting suspect indicted on murder charges AP News: Police chief says motive for Wisconsin school shooting was a 'combination of factors' Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: Yesterday in Madison, Wisconsin, a teenage student opened fire at Abundant Life Christian School, killing three (including the shooter) and injuring six. Donald Trump and SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son announced a $100 billion U.S. investment plan focused on AI, citing optimism about the American economy. In New York, a top aide to Mayor Eric Adams, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, resigned ahead of an expected indictment for accepting improper gifts. Trump suggested he might pardon Adams if needed. The Department of Transportation unveiled new rules requiring airlines to improve services for passengers with disabilities, with full compliance expected by mid-2026. In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz was ousted in a vote of no confidence, triggering an early election in February. Polls indicate a likely shift to the right, led by conservative Friedrich Merz. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: What we know about the Madison, Wisconsin, school shooting that left a student and teacher dead AP News: Japan's SoftBank plans to invest $100 billion in US projects over the next four years AP News: Ingrid Lewis-Martin, chief adviser to NYC Mayor Eric Adams, resigns and expects to be indicted AP News: Trump weighs in on NY mayor, vaccines and drones in freewheeling press conference at Mar-a-Lago CNN: DOT announces new protections for air travelers with disabilities WA Post: Germany’s Olaf Scholz loses confidence vote, triggering early election Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: The source of mysterious drones over the Northeast remains unknown, though Homeland Security promises transparency if foreign actors are involved. Two arrests on Long Island may or may not be linked. Meanwhile, South Korea’s President Yoon has been impeached after declaring martial law, with a court deciding his fate in the coming months. Texas AG Ken Paxton sued a New York doctor for mailing abortion pills to a Texas resident, challenging NY’s protective laws. McKinsey settled for $650M over its role in Purdue Pharma's opioid crisis, avoiding criminal charges. Former OpenAI researcher Suchir Balaji, who alleged copyright violations by the company, was found dead in an apparent suicide. In Washington, Trump reportedly wants to privatize USPS over its financial losses, and Nancy Pelosi underwent hip surgery after a fall. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: Sunday snapshot: Drone debate rolls on following arrests Axios: South Korean president impeached and suspended from duties Texas Tribune: Ken Paxton sues New York doctor accused of prescribing abortion pills to Texas woman AP News: McKinsey & Company agrees to pay $650M for helping Purdue Pharma boost opioid sales CNBC: Former OpenAI researcher and whistleblower found dead at age 26 WA Post: Trump eyes privatizing U.S. Postal Service, citing financial losses WA Post: Nancy Pelosi gets hip replacement after fall in Luxembourg Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: President Biden granted clemency to over 1,500 individuals in home confinement and 39 convicted of nonviolent crimes, marking the largest single-day clemency action in modern history, with more reviews promised before his term ends. Meanwhile, Donald Trump pledged January 6 pardons in his first presidential hour. The NLRB filed a complaint against Love Is Blind, classifying cast members as employees, raising unionization possibilities, and challenging restrictive contract terms, including hefty fines and media bans. In the ongoing mystery of large drones over New Jersey, Senator Blumenthal urged the Biden administration to act more aggressively, even suggesting shooting them down, though the White House reports no malicious activity. Donald Trump was named Time Magazine’s 2024 Person of the Year. In interviews, he shared plans on immigration, FDA oversight, and political legacy while celebrating by ringing the NYSE bell. Trump also invited China’s Xi Jinping to his inauguration, an unprecedented move. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Biden commutes roughly 1,500 sentences and pardons 39 people in biggest single-day act of clemency NY Times: Labor Board Classifies ‘Love Is Blind’ Contestants as Employees CNN: Mysterious drone sightings in New Jersey prompt security concerns. Here’s what we know Time: TIME 2024 Person of the year Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: FBI Director Christopher Wray announced plans to resign at the end of President Biden's term, leaving Trump’s nominee Kash Patel poised to take over if confirmed. Trump also plans to revoke ICE arrest restrictions at schools, churches, and hospitals on day one of his next term, according to NBC News. Inflation data for November showed a 2.7% rise in the consumer price index, with core inflation up 3.3%, sparking speculation on the Fed's next move. Meanwhile, drone sightings over New Jersey led to claims of an "Iranian mothership," which the Pentagon denied. In Congress, Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema blocked Biden’s NLRB nominee, paving the way for a Trump pick. Elsewhere, a bankruptcy judge rejected The Onion’s bid to purchase Alex Jones’s Infowars, citing transparency concerns. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WA Post: FBI Director Christopher Wray to resign before Trump takes office NBC News: Trump plans to scrap policy restricting ICE arrests at churches, schools and hospitals Axios: November CPI report: Inflation ticks up NBC News: Iranian 'mothership' isn't behind drone sightings over New Jersey, Pentagon says Ap News: Manchin, Sinema prevent Democrats from locking in majority on labor board through 2026 Bloomberg: The Onion’s Bid for Alex Jones’ Infowars Rejected by Judge Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: Luigi Mangione, charged with second-degree murder for killing United CEO Brian Thompson, was denied bail in Pennsylvania and is contesting extradition to New York. He has also been charged with forgery and gun-related crimes and plans to plead not guilty. Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell had another health scare, falling on Capitol Hill but reportedly being cleared to continue his schedule. Donald Trump’s Defense Secretary pick, Pete Hegseth, met with senators to push his nomination forward, earning a chance at a confirmation hearing. Across the media world, Rupert Murdoch faced a setback in his bid to alter his family trust to secure control for his son Lachlan, inspired, ironically, by an episode of Succession. A DOJ report revealed Trump’s administration secretly obtained phone records of congressmen and reporters, a concerning echo of surveillance overreach. Finally, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu testified in his corruption trial, dismissing charges as trivial while decrying a media-led witch hunt. His testimony continues in a grueling multi-week schedule. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Live updates: The arrest of Luigi Mangione, the UnitedHeathcare CEO shooting suspect CBS News: McConnell suffers fall on Capitol Hill, prompting medical treatment CBS News: Pete Hegseth returns to Capitol Hill to build support as Trump's defense secretary WA Post: Commissioner rejects Rupert Murdoch’s effort to change family trust NBC News: Trump's DOJ secretly obtained phone and text message logs of 43 congressional staffers and 2 members of Congress AP News: Israel's Netanyahu vows to challenge 'absurd' corruption charges as he takes the stand in his trial Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: The suspect in United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s murder, 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, was arrested in Pennsylvania. Mangione, who left a manifesto blaming the insurance industry, was caught after being spotted at a McDonald’s. In another legal development, Jay-Z has been added to a lawsuit accusing him and Diddy of raping a 13-year-old at a 2000 MTV VMA party. Jay-Z has denied the claims, calling them an extortion attempt. Meanwhile, former Marine Daniel Penny was acquitted in the subway choking death of Jordan Neely, with jurors reaching their verdict after three days of deliberation. As the revolution in Syria unfolds, the U.S. is working with allies to secure Assad’s chemical weapons, while the DOJ has charged two regime officials with war crimes against Americans. Finally, Lara Trump resigned as RNC co-chair and hinted at interest in Marco Rubio’s Senate seat if he joins Trump’s cabinet, openly saying she’d consider it. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: The Baltimore Banner: Luigi Mangione's sprawling family found success after patriarch's rise AP News: Jay-Z says lawsuit accusing him of raping a child at awards after-party is part of an extortion ploy NY Times: Daniel Penny Is Acquitted in Death of Jordan Neely on Subway Axios: U.S. working to destroy Syria's remaining chemical weapons, official says Axios: Syrian officials charged with war crimes in U.S. Axios: Lara Trump steps down as RNC co-chair, considers Senate seat Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: Syria’s Bashar al-Assad has been ousted after 50 years, with rebel group HTS taking control of Damascus as the U.N. calls for transition talks. In an NBC interview, President-elect Trump vowed mass deportations, January 6th pardons, and jail for political opponents. He also met with Macron and Zelensky in Paris to discuss ending the Ukraine war. Idaho will enforce the first U.S. abortion travel ban for minors, with penalties of 2–5 years for “abortion trafficking.” The suspect in United CEO Brian Thompson’s murder remains at large, with his backpack found in Central Park but no weapon. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Syrian government falls, ending 50-year rule of Assad family NBC News: Read the full transcript: President-elect Donald Trump interviewed by "Meet the Press" moderator Kristen Welker Axios: Trump discusses war in Ukraine with Zelensky and Macron in Paris Yahoo News: Court Rules Idaho Can Enforce Ban On Interstate Abortion Travel NY Times: NYPD Releases New Images of Suspect in UnitedHealthcare CEO Shooting Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: New details have emerged in the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, including photos of the unmasked suspect, who used a fake ID to check into a hostel and fled on a modified e-bike. Shell casings at the scene were engraved with a phrase referencing insurance industry tactics and possibly tied to a lawsuit alleging Thompson and others profited from insider stock trades before a DOJ investigation. Meanwhile, President Biden’s aides are reportedly discussing preemptive pardons for individuals Trump has vowed to prosecute in a second term, though Biden has not been involved, and the idea has faced pushback. The FBI warns against unencrypted texting due to a massive Chinese state-sponsored hack affecting global telecommunications carriers. Hackers have targeted sensitive communications and remain embedded in U.S. networks, though T-Mobile claims to have thwarted the attack. Finally, a 7.0 earthquake struck Northern California, triggering tsunami warnings for over 5 million residents. Despite the magnitude, there were no reports of major damage or injuries. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: Words on ammo in CEO shooting echo common phrase on insurer tactics: Delay, deny, defend Politico: Biden White House Is Discussing Preemptive Pardons for Those in Trump’s Crosshairs Axios: At least 8 U.S. telcos compromised in Chinese hack, White House says AP News: 7.0 earthquake off Northern California prompts brief tsunami warning Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson was shot and killed outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel yesterday morning before an investor conference. The masked shooter, who fled on a Citibike, remains at large. Thompson had reportedly received threats related to insurance disputes. Donald Trump is considering replacing Pete Hegseth with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis as his Secretary of Defense pick, citing DeSantis’ better chances of Senate confirmation. Meanwhile, Trump tapped billionaire Jared Isaacman, a SpaceX enthusiast, to lead NASA despite his lack of government experience. Republicans narrowly retained control of the House with 220 seats to Democrats' 215, though three GOP members will leave for Trump’s cabinet. This results in a net Democratic gain and a slimmer majority for Speaker Mike Johnson. In France, Prime Minister Michael Barnier and his cabinet are resigning after a no-confidence vote, marking the country’s first such political crisis since 1962. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Ap News: Police hunt for UnitedHealthcare CEO's masked killer after 'brazen, targeted' attack on NYC street WA Post: Hegseth defiant as Trump considers replacing him as defense secretary pick NBC News: Trump picks billionaire Jared Isaacman to lead NASA WA Post: Trump and the GOP will have a historically tiny House majority. What that means. NBC News: French government is toppled in no-confidence vote Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol briefly declared martial law, citing “anti-state forces,” but repealed it after parliament unanimously invalidated the move, fueling impeachment talks. Donald Trump agreed to DOJ background checks for cabinet nominees, while his Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services pick, Dr. Oz, faces an FTC inquiry over undisclosed ties to a supplement company. In Iowa, the Secretary of State sued the federal government for citizenship data on 2,000 voters amid disputes over voter rolls and naturalized citizens being wrongly flagged. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: South Korea lifts president's martial law decree after lawmakers reject military rule Axios: Trump team agrees to DOJ background checks for nominees The Hill: Consumer watchdog wants FTC to investigate Oz for influencer marketing violations AP News: Iowa sues Biden administration for citizenship status of over 2,000 registered voters Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: The post-Thanksgiving news cycle kicked off with criticism from both parties over President Biden's controversial pardon of his son, Hunter—a move that left a few from both sides of the isle irate. Meanwhile, Democrats in Congress are reshuffling leadership roles, with Amy Klobuchar and Cory Booker rising in the Senate and Jamie Raskin challenging Jerry Nadler for House Judiciary Committee chair. Elsewhere, Elon Musk faced a legal setback as a Delaware judge upheld a ruling against his $56 billion Tesla pay package. Finally, Oxford’s Word of the Year, "brain rot," perfectly captures the online content fatigue of 2024. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Democrats left fuming over Biden’s decision to pardon his son — after he repeatedly said he wouldn’t Politico: Raskin launches challenge for top Judiciary panel Democratic spot - Live Updates Politico: Senate Dems set to bump up Klobuchar and Booker in leadership ranks - Live Updates NBC News: Tesla CEO Elon Musk loses bid to get $56 billion pay package reinstated NBC News: 'Brain rot' is Oxford University Press' word of the year Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today’s Headlines: President Biden issued a "full and unconditional" pardon for his son Hunter, calling the charges politically motivated. Over on the Trump side, the president-elect announced some eyebrow-raising family appointments: Jared Kushner’s dad is set to be ambassador to France, and Tiffany Trump’s father-in-law will advise on Middle East affairs. Trump also tapped Kash Patel for FBI Director and as for Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense—an old letter from Hegseth’s mom resurfaced, calling him out for mistreating women. On the international front, Russia had a rough weekend. Opposition forces took Aleppo in Syria, sparking Russian airstrikes, and protests broke out in Georgia after the government froze EU membership talks. Meanwhile, Putin praised Trump as “intelligent” and criticized Biden, adding to the chaos. Australia is making waves with a new law banning kids under 16 from social media, but no one’s sure how it’ll actually work. And finally, Diddy was denied bail yet again, with the judge saying he’s a danger to the community. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: President Biden Pardons His Son Hunter: Live Updates AP News: Trump wants pardoned real estate developer Charles Kushner to become US ambassador to France The Independent: Keeping it in the family: Trump appoints Tiffany’s father-in-law as Middle East adviser AP News: Trump says he'll nominate Kash Patel as FBI director to remake the agency. Here's what happens next NY Times: Pete Hegseth’s Mother Accused Her Son of Mistreating Women for Years BBC: More Russian strikes as Syrian rebels advance after taking Aleppo CNN: Protests in Georgia spread as PM defies US condemnation CNN: Russian President Vladimir Putin says Trump is ‘intelligent and experienced,’ capable of finding ‘solutions’ NPR: A social media ban in Australia for children under 16 is first in the world ABC News: Sean 'Diddy' Combs denied bail as judge declares hip-hop mogul poses serious danger Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices