Digital Activist Confronts Rep. Nancy Mace Over Transgender Issues
Transgender digital rights activist Evan Greer challenged Rep. Nancy Mace at a Georgetown University event after Mace proposed a ban on transgender women in women's Capitol restrooms. Amidst audience applause and subsequent booing of Mace's response, Greer’s protest highlighted the struggle for inclusive free speech online. Mace faced backlash for misgendering Greer, while the confrontation sparked a broader discussion in the tech community about human rights.
President-elect Trump Appoints Scott Turner as HUD Secretary
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen former NFL player Scott Turner as the new secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Turner, who led the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council in Trump’s first term, awaits Senate confirmation. His appointment follows an election focused on housing affordability issues, with a notable 30% rent increase since 2019.
GOP Rep Mike Flood on Trump's Tariff Moves
Republican Representative Mike Flood stated he's observing President Trump's approach to tariffs. His focus remains on the impact of these decisions. The discussion took place during an appearance on 'The Lead.'
Rep. Wasserman Schultz Speaks on The Lead
Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz appeared on 'The Lead' to discuss the implications of election outcomes, emphasizing that elections have consequences.
Possible Postponement of Trump Sentencing Discussed in Court
New York's Judge Juan Merchan is considering options regarding Donald Trump's sentencing, which could be delayed until after his potential presidential term. Facing motions to dismiss the case and overturn guilty verdicts, the outcome remains uncertain. If his motions fail, Trump's legal team may appeal to the Supreme Court, potentially prolonging resolution past Inauguration Day.
Leaks Lead to Gaetz's Removal from AG Consideration; Trump Opposes Journalist Protections
Matt Gaetz withdrew from attorney general consideration for President-elect Trump after leaks revealed an investigation into his alleged sexual misconduct with a minor. Meanwhile, Trump urges Senate Republicans to kill the PRESS Act, aimed at protecting journalists, signaling a potential threat to press freedom during his upcoming term.
President-elect Trump Nominates Russell Vought for Budget Office
President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Russell Vought, a former OMB official and advocate of presidential powers, to lead the Office of Management and Budget. Vought, known for challenging the federal bureaucracy, seeks to restore 'fiscal sanity' and 'self-governance.' His confirmation by the Senate is pending. Trump's announcement also included a slate of other key administration positions.
Stalled Climate Finance Negotiations at UN Conference
COP29, held in Baku, Azerbaijan, witnessed tense negotiations on climate finance, failing to reach a consensus. Nearly 50,000 delegates aimed to secure $250 billion annually by 2035 for developing countries, but fell short of the $1 trillion goal for green transition and disaster mitigation. Leaders from major economies largely absented themselves, with discussions overshadowed by Trump's election win and subsequent Paris Agreement withdrawal threats.
Melania Trump Appoints Hayley Harrison as Chief of Staff
Melania Trump has appointed her longtime aide, Hayley Harrison, as her chief of staff. Harrison, who has worked with Trump for seven years including White House and post-White House periods, will manage the East Wing's team. This announcement comes amid an ongoing investigation where Harrison was mentioned in an indictment against Donald Trump.
Escalation in Russia-Ukraine War with Hypersonic Missile and North Korean Troops
On day 1,003 of the Russia-Ukraine war, Russia test-fired a hypersonic missile named Oreshnik, capable of carrying nuclear warheads and reaching European targets. Ukraine seeks advanced air defense in response. NATO plans emergency talks after the missile strike. Meanwhile, the US expects 10,000 North Korean troops to join the Russian offensive soon, and on the diplomatic front, US President-elect Trump is considering appointing Richard Grenell as a special envoy for the conflict.