Headlines

January 4, 2026

The Hill

Senate To Vote on War Powers

The resolution to block the administration from engaging in further hostilities against Venezuela is privileged, which means Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) cannot stop it from coming to the floor.
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The New York Times

Friedman: You Break It, You Own It

‘I am certainly not arguing for a U.S. military takeover in Venezuela, but I am certainly wondering how we can shape events and trends there…Grab-and-go is great if you are doing lunch, but as a geopolitical strategy it has its limits.
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Mediaite

Eyebrows Raised on Maduro Payday

One Polymarket bettor has drawn the attention of many X users after winning more than $400,000 betting on Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro being ousted just days after joining the platform.
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The Washington Post

Walz Becomes Punching Bag Over Fraud

Governor Tim Walz seeks a third term under scrutiny for welfare fraud, as federal investigations reveal extensive misappropriations, challenging his leadership and impacting Minnesota's political landscape.
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CBS News

State Says MN Childcare Centers Are Open

Minnesota officials found nine child care centers accused of fraud by YouTuber Nick Shirley were operating normally during inspections, with children present at eight centers and one not yet open, while four centers remain under investigation.
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People

Identification of Swiss Victims Begins

On January 3, 2026, Swiss authorities identified four young victims of a deadly fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, which resulted in over 40 fatalities and 119 injuries during New Year's Eve celebrations.
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CNN

Dentist Couple Murder Unsolved

Dr. Spencer Tepe and his wife, Monique, were found dead in their Columbus, Ohio home, with no signs of forced entry or firearm present; investigators are exploring the possibility of a targeted attack.
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The Guardian

Decoding Gen Z Dating Lingo

As young people take on a messy dating landscape, they’ve created their own lexicon to match. Here’s like what phrases ‘bird theory’ and ‘monkey branching’ mean
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NFL

Seahawks Clinch No. 1 Seed

The Seattle Seahawks are embarking on their first playoff run under head coach Mike Macdonald, and they will do so as the NFC's No. 1 seed for the fourth time in franchise history.
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LA Times

CA State Laws Often Come East

A slew of new laws in California have gone into effect, including a ban on law enforcement officers wearing masks, cuts to the cost of insulin and a requirement for landlords to provide refrigerators.
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New York Post

Papal Peep for the Pope

Pope Leo captivated the internet when he was gifted his favorite candy while riding in the Popemobile, sparking viral attention and delighting fans worldwide.
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The Wall Street Journal

Suddenly Everyone Is Afraid To Dance

“Dance like nobody’s watching” was always sound advice for anyone hesitant to let loose at a club, concert or wedding. But in a world where everyone has a camera in their pocket, it’s a tough sell.
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USA Today

Billy Joel Returns To Stage

On January 3, 2026, Billy Joel performed at Madison Square Garden, marking his return since being diagnosed with a brain disorder. He expressed gratitude to his fans and optimism about his health and future performances.
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