Major winter storm threatens millions with ice and power outages across central and eastern US
A large winter storm is expected to bring snow, freezing rain, and ice to tens of millions from Texas to New England, raising concerns about dangerous travel, power outages, and extreme cold. Forecasters warn of crippling ice accumulations that could damage trees and power lines, with federal climate research funding cuts potentially impacting future prediction capabilities.
Sources: AP News, NPR
House Republicans narrowly defeat resolution to limit Trump's war powers in Venezuela
The House voted 215-215, failing to pass a resolution that would have required congressional approval for further U.S. military action in Venezuela. Republicans argued the recent operation to capture former President Nicolás Maduro was a completed law enforcement action, while Democrats and two Republicans expressed concerns about unchecked executive war powers.
Sources: AP News, NPR
TikTok finalizes deal to form new U.S. entity, avoiding ban
TikTok has reached an agreement with investors including Oracle and Silver Lake to create a new American joint venture, addressing national security concerns through enhanced data protections and algorithm security. The deal allows the popular video app to continue operating in the U.S. under revised ownership and oversight structures.
Sources: AP News, NPR
Trump administration expands executive power while challenging democratic norms
In his first year back in office, President Trump has significantly expanded presidential authority, testing constitutional checks and balances through actions like sidelining Congress, targeting political opponents, and reshaping federal agencies. Critics argue these moves push toward authoritarianism, while supporters claim they fulfill his electoral mandate.
Sources: NPR
ICE detains 5-year-old boy amid escalating immigration enforcement
Federal immigration officers detained a young child who was reportedly used as 'bait,' highlighting aggressive enforcement tactics. This occurs alongside broader controversies over ICE's expanded powers to enter homes without warrants and increased operations in cities like Minneapolis.
Sources: AP News
Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney responds to Trump's Davos comments about Canadian dependence
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney countered U.S. President Donald Trump's assertion that 'Canada lives because of the United States,' stating that Canada thrives due to its own values. The exchange occurred after Trump's speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos.
Sources: AP News
Special Counsel Jack Smith defends Trump investigations in House testimony
Special Counsel Jack Smith testified before Congress about his investigations into former President Donald Trump, emphasizing that 'no one should be above the law.' His appearance addressed the legal challenges and threats surrounding the cases.
Sources: AP News
White House shares altered image showing arrest of civil rights attorney in Minnesota
The White House disseminated a manipulated photograph depicting the arrest of a civil rights attorney in Minnesota, raising concerns about misinformation. This incident is part of broader tensions between federal authorities and state officials over immigration enforcement.
Sources: AP News
Social Security Administration reveals DOGE employees improperly accessed and shared sensitive data
The Social Security Administration admitted that employees from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) improperly accessed and shared Americans' sensitive personal data, potentially for political purposes like investigating voter fraud. The breaches highlight risks to privacy and raise questions about data misuse within federal agencies.
Sources: NPR
Venezuela advances bill to open oil sector to private investment amid U.S. pressure
Venezuela's legislature is considering legislation to reduce state control over its oil industry, allowing private companies to operate fields and market crude independently. The move comes as the Trump administration pushes for greater U.S. investment in Venezuela's struggling oil sector, though political and legal uncertainties remain.
Sources: NPR