Key Facts

• Smith defends integrity at first public hearing: In his first public appearance before lawmakers, Smith said he is not a politician and has no partisan loyalties. He asserted his career has been dedicated to upholding the rule of law and stood by his decisions, including bringing charges against President Trump. He pushed back against Trump’s claims that he was crooked. [1][2]
• Trump calls Smith a deranged animal and hints at misconduct inquiry: During the day, Trump labeled Smith a 'deranged animal' in a social media post and suggested Attorney General Pam Bondi review alleged misconduct by Smith, signaling ongoing political pressure surrounding the investigations. [2]
• Smith led the special counsel’s office and withdrew charges: From 2022 to 2025, Smith led the Justice Department’s special counsel office that pursued Trump-related cases over attempts to overturn the 2020 election and the handling of classified documents. He filed federal charges in both investigations but withdrew them after Trump’s 2024 election victory, citing longstanding DOJ rules against prosecuting a sitting president. [1][6]
• Phone records dispute centers on toll metadata: Republicans grilled Smith over the decision to subpoena toll records for several GOP lawmakers. The toll records, a form of phone metadata, are not wiretaps and do not reveal content; Smith argued the logs were needed to map the scope of the conspiracy and influence attempts. [1][14]
• Attendees included four Capitol Police veterans; Fanone and Rhodes noted: Four former Capitol Police officers who defended the Capitol on January 6 attended the hearing. Fanone shouted from his seat, and Stewart Rhodes, the Oath Keepers founder, was spotted outside the hearing, underscoring ongoing aftershocks of the events. [1][25][26]

Who Said What

• Jim Jordan, U.S. Representative, Republican on the House Judiciary Committee: "We should never forget what they did to the guy that we the people elected president twice," [1]
• Kevin Kiley, U.S. Representative, Republican: "No mistakes! There’s that integrity!" [1]
• Troy Nehls, U.S. Representative, Republican: "The crap you were shoveling did not pass the smell test with the American people." [1]
• Jamie Raskin, U.S. Representative, Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee: "Donald Trump says you’re a criminal and you belong in prison. Not because you did anything wrong — but because you did everything right. You pursued the facts, you followed the law." [1]
• Eric Swalwell, U.S. Representative, Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee: "You, unlike many here, are a man of honor." [1]
• Jack Smith, Former special counsel: "I am not a politician, and I have no partisan loyalties. My career has been dedicated to serving our country by upholding the rule of law…I stand by my decisions as special counsel, including my decision to bring charges against President Trump." [1]
• Jack Smith, Former special counsel: "My office didn't spy on anyone." [1]

Key Facts

• 5-year-old boy taken from Minneapolis driveway: The boy, Liam Conejo Ramos, was removed from his family’s running car after returning from preschool in a metro Minneapolis suburb. He and his father Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias were later taken into custody together and are being held at an ICE facility in Texas. An outside adult in the home reportedly begged the agents to let them care for the child, but was refused. [1]
• ICE denies using child as bait; claim the child was abandoned: ICE posted on X saying it did not, and never has, used a child as bait and that the child was abandoned. The post is in response to the superintendent’s description of the operation and the allegations of bait. [2]
• DHS says father targeted; both taken into custody: The Department of Homeland Security said the father, who is from Ecuador, was the intended target of the operation. The father fled on foot, abandon­ing the child; one ICE officer remained with the child while the others arrested the father. [1]
• Family detained together at Dilley facility in Texas: According to a source familiar with the situation, Adrian Alexander Conejo Arias and his son Liam Conejo Ramos are being held at the South Texas Family Residential Center in Dilley, Texas, an ICE facility for families. [1]
• Ramos not the only student affected in the district: Ramos isn’t the only case in the Columbia Heights School District. Three other students have been taken by ICE. A 17-year-old high school student was taken on Tuesday; another 17-year-old student and her mother were detained last week; a 10-year-old fourth grader was taken two weeks ago and remains in a Texas detention center. [1]
• Dilley facility described as family-oriented detention center: The Dilley facility is intended to be a residential detention center for families, with trailers and spaces for a library, gym and classroom. Children in the facility range from infants to teenagers. [1]

Who Said What

• Zena Stenvik, Superintendent, Columbia Heights Public School District: "Another adult living in the home was outside and begged the agents to let them take care of the small child, but was refused." The moment underscores community concern about safety and care for the child. [1]
• Zena Stenvik, Superintendent, Columbia Heights Public School District: "An agent led him to the door and directed him to knock on the door, asking to be let in, in order to see if anyone else was home — essentially using a 5-year-old as bait." This description highlights allegations about the tactics used during the operation. [1]
• Tricia McLaughlin, Homeland Security spokesperson: "For the child’s safety, one of our ICE officers remained with the child while the other officers apprehended." [1]
• Gregory Bovino, Border Patrol Commander-at-Large: "We conduct legal, ethical and moral law enforcement missions here in Minneapolis." [1]
• Mark Prokosch, Family's lawyer: "They have done every single thing the right way that they were supposed to … The family is pursuing an asylum claim, which is lawful to do. It’s just that now we have to do it with half of the family in Texas." [1]
• ICE, ICE spokesperson: "did not, and has never, 'used a child as bait.' The child was abandoned." [2]

Key Facts

• Vance visits Minneapolis, blames local cooperation for ICE surge: During a visit to Minneapolis, Vice President JD Vance blamed the heavy federal presence on a lack of cooperation from state and local officials. He offered a conciliatory tone, saying he hoped for better partnerships moving forward and acknowledging the need for investigations into the Renee Good shooting and other incidents where agents are accused of wrongdoing. He indicated support for administrative warrants as a framework for enforcement while stressing that entering homes without any warrant is not on the table. [1]
• Three arrested after St. Paul church protest: A protest Sunday at Cities Church in St. Paul disrupted worship as demonstrators challenged a pastor who appears to be a top ICE official. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrests of Nekima Levy Armstrong and Chauntyll Allen, and later disclosed a third arrestee, William Kelly. The charges included conspiracy to deprive rights, with Kelly also facing a FACE Act violation. [1]
• White House posts altered image of Armstrong crying: The White House posted an image depicting Armstrong crying as she was led away, which CNN described as altered. A link to a post by a White House spokesperson implicitly confirmed the posting. Armstrong’s attorney called the image outrageous defamation, arguing it shows racism and fascism in the administration. [1]
• Five-year-old Liam Ramos detained in Texas with father: Five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos was taken from his driveway after preschool and is detained with his father at a Texas ICE facility. The father and son had previously sought asylum, and DHS described the arrest as part of an operation in which one officer stayed with the child while the other arrested the father. The family is being housed at a family detention center in Texas. [1]
• ICE defends use of administrative warrants to arrest in homes: ICE official Marcos Charles argued that agents do not break into homes and instead enter under hot pursuit with a criminal warrant or an administrative warrant. Administrative warrants require less evidence and are based on a final order of removal. The Associated Press reported on an internal memo supporting using administrative warrants for residence entries. [1]
• Minnesota corrections chief challenges DHS detainer numbers: Paul Schnell, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Corrections, said DHS’s detainer figures are inaccurate and cited a point‑in‑time survey showing far fewer detainers in Minnesota than DHS claims. He criticized data dissemination and noted the DOC operates state prisons only and cannot control ICE detainer decisions, warning that conflating systems leads to misinformation. [1]

Who Said What

• JD Vance, Vice President: Nobody is talking about doing immigration enforcement without a warrant. We’re talking about different types of warrants that exist in our system. [1]
• Nekima Levy Armstrong, Protester: We didn’t rush in. We didn’t bust in. We were a part of the service until I got up and posed that question to the lead pastor. [1]
• Pam Bondi, Attorney General: Minutes ago at my direction, Homeland Security Investigations and FBI agents executed an arrest in Minnesota. We will protect Americans of faith. [1]
• Gregory Bovino, Border Patrol Commander-at-Large: Minneapolis Police Department has been called on several situations that they have not responded. [1]
• Marcos Charles, ICE enforcement official: We don’t break into anybody’s homes. We make entry in either a hot pursuit with a criminal arrest warrant or an administrative arrest warrant. [1]

Key Facts

• Judge rejects DOJ bid to charge Lemon: A federal magistrate judge denied the Justice Department's initial bid to press charges against Don Lemon for appearing with protesters who breached a Minnesota church. The ruling, described by CNN sources, leaves open the possibility that prosecutors could retry the case. The DOJ argued Lemon lacked a right to be on the church's private property and that the disruption may have infringed on congregants' rights. The decision highlights the scrutiny around prosecuting journalists for on-the-ground reporting. [1]
• Lemon says he was there as journalist: Lemon has asserted he attended the event as a journalist rather than a protester. In a video posted on YouTube, he states he was there to photograph the event and was not part of the group. [1]
• DOJ argued Lemon had no right on church property: Justice Department officials publicly asserted that Lemon would face charges and argued he did not have a right to be on the church's private property, adding that interrupting the service may have impeded the churchgoers' right to express their religion. The department indicated it could retry if appropriate. [1]
• Bondi on the ground in Minnesota: Attorney General Pam Bondi has been on the ground in Minnesota for two days, meeting with federal prosecutors, reflecting the high-profile nature of the outreach to address the protests. [1]
• Protests at Cities Church interrupt service: Protests at Cities Church in St. Paul interrupted a Sunday service as demonstrators entered the church. Videos show the pastor leading the service repeatedly asking the protesters to leave, while others chanted 'Justice for Renee Good' and clashed with congregants. Authorities have arrested at least three people connected to the protests. [3][4][1]
• DOJ could retry Lemon charges: The Justice Department could attempt to bring charges against Lemon again in the future, reflecting the ongoing legal question over journalists’ protections when covering on-scene events. [1]

Who Said What

• Don Lemon, journalist: "I'm just here photographing, I'm not part of the group... I'm a journalist." [1]
• Abbe Lowell, Lemon's attorney: "The magistrate's reported actions confirm the nature of Don's First Amendment protected work this weekend in Minnesota as a reporter. It was no different than what he has done for more than 30 years, reporting and covering newsworthy events on the ground and engaging in constitutionally protected activity as a journalist. Lemon would fight any charges vigorously and thoroughly in court, should the DOJ continue to pursue them." [1]

Key Facts

• Trump sues JPMorgan over 2021 debanking, seeks $5B: Trump and his businesses allege JPMorgan closed their accounts in February 2021 with 60 days' notice, arguing the move was politically motivated. The Florida state court filing seeks $5 billion in damages and accuses the bank of discriminatory treatment against Trump and his family. [1]
• Alleged JPMorgan blacklist targets Trump family wealth: The complaint asserts a blacklist for wealth management accounts linked to Trump and relatives was authorized by Dimon and deterred other banks from dealing with the Trump entities. The suit ties the blacklist to broader debanking claims. [1]
• Trump says he contacted Dimon about closures; promises unfulfilled: The filing states Trump spoke directly with Dimon about the account terminations, and Dimon allegedly assured a response that never came. [1]
• JPMorgan calls the suit meritless; defends its policy: JPMorgan spokesperson Trish Wexler said the bank does not close accounts for political reasons and instead acts to manage legal or regulatory risk. The bank says it will defend itself in court. [1]
• Case placed in broader context of Trump debanking lawsuits: The article notes Trump has pursued other lawsuits against CBS, the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal and the BBC related to criticism and perceived enemies, framing this as part of a pattern. [2][3][4][5]
• Dimon warns at Davos that a credit cap would be disastrous: Dimon told Davos attendees that a proposed 10 percent cap on credit card interest would be an economic disaster because it would limit access to credit for many American households. [6]

Who Said What

• Trish Wexler, JPMorgan spokesperson: "While we regret President Trump has sued us, we believe the suit has no merit." The remark underscores JPMorgan's stance that the action has no legal merit and will be contested in court. [1]
• Trish Wexler, JPMorgan spokesperson: "We respect the President’s right to sue us and our right to defend ourselves - that’s what courts are for." The remark reinforces the bank's commitment to due process in its defense. [1]
• Trish Wexler, JPMorgan spokesperson: "We do close accounts because they create legal or regulatory risk for the company." The remark explains the bank’s policy cited in the filing. [1]
• Donald Trump, President: "I hope you start opening your bank to conservatives, because many conservatives complain that the banks are not allowing them to do business within the bank. What you’re doing is wrong." The remark illustrates Trump’s framing of banks as politically biased. [9]
• Peter Conti-Brown, Wharton professor of financial regulation: "Trump’s lawsuit is frivolous." The remark frames the suit as lacking merit given Trump’s business history and regulatory context. [1]
• Jeremy Kress, University of Michigan: "It’s pretty unusual." The remark characterizes the lawsuit as atypical within the banking and regulatory landscape. [1]
• Bill Halldin, Bank of America spokesperson: "no political litmus test" for its clients. The remark provides contrast to Trump’s debanking claims and underscores Banks’ public stance on client selection. [1]

Key Facts

• Review targets federal funding in Democratic-led states: The Office of Management and Budget directed a budget data request to nearly all federal departments and agencies except the Defense Department and the Veterans Affairs. The memo frames the exercise as gathering data to identify improper or fraudulent use of funds and stresses it does not involve withholding funds. The scope covers 13 states and Washington, DC, with a fourteenth state added later. [1]
• Budget memo asks for broad spending data: Agencies must include in spending reports all grants, loans, contracts, subcontracts and other monetary awards to the 13 states and DC, plus their localities, colleges and nonprofits performing or receiving award activities. Data should cover fiscal years 2025 and 2026, with projections for 2027. [1]
• Vought leads the data-review effort: OMB Director Russel Vought has been the lead on the effort, after reshaping agency tools used to exert new authority over the federal spending process. The memo portrays the move as part of a broader strategy to tighten control over spending in blue states. [1]
• Virginia added to the list; states enumerated: Virginia was not in the original memo but has since been included, expanding the roster to include California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington state, Washington, DC and Virginia. [1]
• Policy aims tied to sanctuary cities and Minnesota context: The administration describes the review as a tool to address waste or abuse and to counter blue-state policies, notably on sanctuary cities. Minnesota’s welfare fraud scandal provides backdrop for these actions, with related federal actions and investigations shaping the environment. [1][4][9][8][7]
• Data deadline and scope include higher education and nonprofits: The memo requires agencies to provide data for fiscal years 2025 and 2026 and projections for 2027, covering grants, loans, contracts and other monetary awards to the named states, including institutions of higher education and nonprofits involved in award activities. [1]

Who Said What

• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "Starting February 1, we’re not making any payments to sanctuary cities or states having sanctuary cities because they do everything possible to protect criminals at the expense of American citizens." [1]
• Donald Trump, President of the United States: The quote above illustrates the administration's leverage against jurisdictions with sanctuary-city policies, signaling a hard line on funding. [1]

Key Facts

• Verbal Greenland understanding reached: Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met on Wednesday and an understanding about Greenland emerged. No formal document memorializing a future deal has been produced. The talks described by sources centered on laying groundwork for a broader framework rather than final terms. The conversation signals a push to advance talks despite the absence of a written agreement. [1]
• Discussion of updating 1951 framework: Two sources said the discussions included updating the 1951 US-Denmark-Greenland agreement that governs the U.S. military presence on the island. The framework is described as potentially setting investment protections and a strengthened NATO role, with an emphasis on keeping Russia and China out of Greenland investments. The idea of revised terms was linked to broader strategic goals for Greenland. [2]
• Rutte denies talks on mineral resource access: Rutte denied that he discussed increased US access to Greenland’s mineral reserves with Trump directly. The denial suggests some elements of the broader deal may be less clearly defined in conversations between the two leaders. The denial underscores lingering ambiguity about what was actually agreed. [1]
• White House signals details to be released as finalized: The White House reiterated that details would be released as they are finalized by all parties. Anna Kelly, the White House spokeswoman, framed the process as ongoing and dependent on finalization by the involved parties. Her comments reflect cautious messaging about a potential deal still taking shape. [1]
• Next working-group meeting could set terms in Washington: A US-Denmark-Greenland working group that was formed last week could hammer out a written document at a meeting slated for Washington. The timing remains uncertain, but officials signaled the process would move forward with formal negotiations in the near future. [1]
• Sovereignty remains a red line for Denmark and Greenland: Danish Prime Minister Frederiksen reaffirmed that sovereignty cannot be compromised and that Denmark will negotiate on politics, security and economy but not sovereignty. Greenland’s Prime Minister Nielsen echoed that view, insisting Greenland and Denmark must drive any deal and highlighting sovereignty as a non-negotiable baseline while signaling openness to NATO integration. [1]

Who Said What

• Anna Kelly, White House spokeswoman: "If this deal goes through, and President Trump is very hopeful it will, the United States will be achieving all of its strategic goals with respect to Greenland, at very little cost, forever. President Trump is proving once again he’s the Dealmaker in Chief. As details are finalized by all parties involved, they will be released accordingly." [1]
• Mette Frederiksen, Danish prime minister: "NATO is fully aware of the Kingdom of Denmark’s position. We can negotiate on everything political; security, investments, economy. But we cannot negotiate on our sovereignty. I have been informed that this has not been the case." [1]
• Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Greenland Prime Minister: "Nobody else than Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark have the mandate to make deals or agreements about Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark without us." [1]
• Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Greenland Prime Minister: "We choose the Kingdom of Denmark. We choose the EU, we choose NATO. This is not only a situation for Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark, it’s about the world order for all of us." [1]

Key Facts

• Kushner unveils postwar Gaza masterplan at Davos: Jared Kushner presented a long‑range reconstruction vision to the World Economic Forum, framing it as the sole path forward for Gaza after war and stressing that there is no Plan B. He linked the unveiling to the broader push for a governance framework and a ceasefire settlement. The moment followed the signing of the Board of Peace charter and is positioned as the next phase of the 20‑point ceasefire plan. The presentation sought to project optimism while underscoring the condition that armed groups demilitarize. [1][2][3]
• Plan framed as next stage after charter signing: The rollout came immediately after the signing of a charter for Trump’s Board of Peace, and Kushner described it as the next step in the already agreed 20‑point ceasefire framework. The framing signals a transition from negotiation to a structured reconstruction effort under a technocratic oversight model. Critics welcomed the ambition but cautioned about the governance and enforcement challenges that would follow. [2][3]
• Kushner omits international stabilization force: The briefing did not reference a multinational stabilization force that had been part of earlier ceasefire concepts. The omission is notable because such a force was envisioned to facilitate Israel’s withdrawal and stabilize the territory during the transition. Critics wonder whether outside security guarantees will be forthcoming. [4]
• Coastal development includes 180 skyscrapers, port and airport: A map shown during the presentation portrayed a coastal tourism zone along Gaza’s seafront capable of hosting up to 180 skyscrapers, with a port at the southwest and an inland airport. The plan situates a modernized, interconnected enclave as a centerpiece of postwar redevelopment. [1]
• New Rafah and New Gaza outlined with housing, schools and jobs: Kushner highlighted two new urban developments: New Rafah with more than 100,000 permanent housing units, hundreds of schools, and dozens of medical facilities; and New Gaza, described as an industrial hub aiming for full employment. Construction timelines were proposed as two to three years, with rubble removal already underway. The imagery suggested Gulf‑style urbanism and waterfront development. [1]
• Funding sought from governments and private investors; PA concerns and UNRWA’s future: Kushner said governments would provide initial funding with a Washington conference to follow and urged private sector investment. Palestinian authorities have expressed concerns about a technocratic committee replacing traditional governance, and UNRWA’s future role is left unclear, signaling potential frictions over civilian services. A sign of practical engagement was the planned opening of the Rafah crossing, implying movement toward broader ties. [1]

Who Said What

• Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law and adviser: "We have a masterplan. There is no Plan B." [1]
• Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law and adviser: "If Hamas does not demilitarize, that will be what holds back the people of Gaza from achieving their aspirations." [1]
• Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law and adviser: "I know it’s a little risky to be investing in a place like this, but we need you to come, take faith, invest in the people." [1]
• Ali Shaath, Head of Gaza’s new technocratic committee: "to turn this moment into action" [1]
• Ramy Abdu, Founder of the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor: "Palestinians face a plan to eliminate their very presence, based on domestication, subjugation, and control." [1]

Key Facts

• Trump-Zelensky Davos talks show progress, end remains distant: Trump said there is still a ways to go on ending Russia's war. Zelensky called the meeting positive but cautioned that the last mile of negotiations is very difficult. He also indicated a trilateral meeting with the US and Russia in the United Arab Emirates to push talks forward. [2][1]
• Board of Peace unveiled with Gaza target and limited attendance: Trump unveiled his Board of Peace at Davos to coordinate Gaza reconstruction and resolve global conflicts. The signing ceremony was attended by fewer than 20 countries. He described Gaza as a beautiful piece of property when discussing reconstruction. [6][7][8]
• Greenland deal stays verbal; no written framework yet: Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reached a verbal understanding on Greenland, but no document memorializing a future deal has been produced. They discussed updating the 1951 agreement governing the U.S. military presence on the island. Rutte denied directly addressing potential access to Greenland's resources. [5][1]
• NATO chief says Greenland ownership did not come up; no U-turn: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told Sky News that U.S. ownership of Greenland didn’t come up in his Davos talks and he does not view Trump’s position as a U-turn. He said the conversation focused on Trump’s idea and how NATO can help protect the Arctic, and credited Trump with helping galvanize Arctic security efforts. [1]
• Zelensky urges Europe to act, flags Greenland mode: Zelensky told Davos that Europe has not done enough and warned against falling into what he called Greenland mode. He pressed for European bases and deterrence, and outlined a trilateral path for Ukraine, the United States and Russia in the United Arab Emirates to advance the peace process. [1]
• Slovenian prime minister lauds Europe, rejects Board of Peace: Slovenia’s prime minister told CNN that Europe finally showed backbone by resisting Trump’s demands and that NATO should not be sidelined by unilateral moves. He declined the idea of a UN-parallel Board of Peace and warned about the alliance’s future, stressing unity. [1]

Who Said What

• Donald Trump, US President: "The war has to end. There are a lot of people being killed." [1]
• Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine: "The meeting was positive," and "the last mile of negotiations is very difficult." [1]
• Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom: "They’re raining down bombs on Ukraine. We mustn’t let the events of the last week or so deflect from the focus." [1]
• Mark Rutte, NATO Secretary General: "I don’t think there’s a U-turn." [1]
• Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Greenland Prime Minister: "Greenland sovereignty is a red line in any deal." [1]
• Robert Globb, Slovenian Prime Minister: "Europe is only strong when it’s united... Europe finally showed some backbone." [1]
• JD Vance, Vice President: "You don’t turn the Titanic around overnight. It takes time to fix what was broken." [1]

Key Facts

• Trump pivots from Greenland ownership to indefinite framework: Within hours, Trump shifted from demanding sovereignty over Greenland to endorsing an 'infinite' framework for its future. The move is described as a breakthrough that hinges on extra NATO forces to secure the Arctic, a step he suggests would justify a lasting U.S. presence. He signaled the framework would be permanent and tied to his missile defense plans, presenting it as a legacy achievement even as details remained murky. [1]
• Busch warns the deal could be tomorrow’s headache: Sweden’s Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch warned that today’s progress may become tomorrow’s problem, adding it is too soon to know what the deal entails. She stressed the need to observe how the terms would unfold and signaled uncertainty about the long-term implications for Europe. [1]
• Trump’s Davos spectacle included insults toward allies: The president faced sharp mockery in Davos after days of ridiculing allied leaders, raising fears that NATO cohesion could fray under his approach. The chaotic display underscored concerns about U.S. reliability as a partner at a time of global tension. [4]
• Trump casts NATO terms as a binary choice in Davos: In Davos, Trump told audiences that allies have a choice to accept a deal or face consequences, and he described the agreement as enduring and possibly infinite. The remarks fed concerns about whether the alliance would remain intact if Greenland's status were leveraged for concessions. [1]
• Markets rebound after Trump backs away from tariffs: A stock market rebound followed Trump’s retreat from tariffs targeting European states linked to Greenland, signaling investors priced in a de-escalation of the immediate risk to global markets and European economic ties. [11]
• Norway text hints Greenland prize linked to Nobel prize snub: A text message to Norway’s prime minister suggested Greenland would be a form of participation trophy because Trump had not won the Nobel Peace Prize, illustrating how personal symbolism influenced diplomacy during the episode. [9]

Who Said What

• Ebba Busch, Sweden’s Deputy Prime Minister: "Today’s progress might be tomorrow’s headache." [1]
• Ebba Busch, Sweden’s Deputy Prime Minister: "I’m not going to change my policy tomorrow in a new tweet." [1]
• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "total access" with no time limit to Greenland for the United States, especially for his proposed Golden Dome missile defense system. [1]
• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "It's the ultimate, long term deal" and would be "infinite." [1]
• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "They have a choice. You can say 'yes', and we will be very appreciative, or you can say 'no', and we will remember." [1]
• Mark Rutte, NATO Secretary General: "Danish sovereignty over Greenland didn’t even come up during a meeting with the president." [1]
• William Taylor, Former US Ambassador to Ukraine: "It does make people happy because we can get off talking about this non-problem. Now we can get back to what really matters and that is getting peace in Ukraine." [1]

Key Facts

• Major US winter storm forecast to spread heavy snow: CNN reports a major winter storm is set to spread heavy snow and damaging ice across a large portion of the United States in the coming days. The system is expected to reach hundreds of miles and bring multiple hazards. The timeline stretches from Friday into early next week. CNN’s coverage will rely on maps and charts that update as conditions evolve. [2]
• Dangerous cold temperatures worsen the storm: The cold is expected to intensify the storm's impacts, aggravating conditions on the ground and heightening risk for travel disruptions and outages. Officials warn that bitter temperatures could complicate cleanup and heating needs. The threat is tied to the storm's broader reach and accumulating ice and snow. [1]
• Storm’s reach spans hundreds of miles with hazards: The storm's reach is described as extending hundreds of miles, bringing a mix of snow, ice, and other hazards to diverse regions as it moves Friday into early next week. The breadth of impact means several regions could see different combinations of weather hazards. [3]
• CNN tracks impact with maps and charts: CNN is monitoring the storm’s potential impact by updating maps and charts that illustrate anticipated bitter cold, heavy snow, and freezing rain. The tracking is designed to help readers understand regional risks as the system unfolds. [1]
• Snow totals 6 to 12 inches, some locales exceed a foot: Snow totals are projected to range from six to twelve inches across a wide swath of the country, with localized areas potentially exceeding a foot. Large cities lie within the projected snow band, where snowfall could arrive rapidly at times. [1]
• Ice buildup raises travel and outage risks: The accompanying cold could accelerate ice accumulation on roads, complicating cleanup and increasing the chance of power outages. In areas with heavy snow and ice, travel disruptions and outages could extend into the next week. [1]

Key Facts

• Storm to span 1,500 miles from Texas to Northeast: The system is forecast to deliver heavy snow in many areas and dangerous icing in the South, with more than 160 million people under winter storm or ice storm alerts. It begins in the Plains on Friday and is expected to reach New England by Monday, causing widespread travel disruption across the country. [1][2]
• Track shifts north raise snow risks for Midwest and Northeast: Officials say the storm’s track has moved north in recent days, bringing heavier snow to the Midwest and Northeast while ice threats persist in the South. Even small forecast shifts can meaningfully change local impacts, according to the Weather Prediction Center. [1]
• Ice could trigger long-lasting power outages in the South: Freezing rain is expected to accumulate on surfaces, adding weight to trees and power lines and risking outages that could last for days in parts of Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia and the Carolinas. The Atlanta area is seen as more uncertain due to competing air masses, and travel could be halted with even modest icing. [1]
• Snow totals likely 6 to 12 inches across many states: A broad snow zone extends from the Plains into the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, with several areas facing a foot or more. Cities named in the forecast include Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Louisville, Washington, New York City and Boston, with possible heavy snow rates at times. [1]
• States declare emergencies and mobilize resources: Emergency declarations cover multiple states as officials prepare for the storm’s impact. Governors urged people to limit travel, and authorities discussed mobilizing National Guardsmen and other resources; Wake County in North Carolina prepared for remote learning if conditions require. [1][3]
• Record-cold threat adds to disruption; some cities see closures: An Arctic air outbreak could push temperatures well below average in late January, heightening hazards and potential outages. Public schools in Chicago and Des Moines canceled Friday activities due to dangerous wind chills, and Texas cities could experience record-low temperatures. [1][5][6]

Who Said What

• Josh Stein, Governor of North Carolina: "I encourage all North Carolinians to stay home and off the roads this weekend unless absolutely necessary so first responders can do their jobs safely and effectively." [1]
• Daniel Johnson, North Carolina Transportation Secretary: "Some locations can see winter weather like they haven't seen in years. The storm has our full attention." [1]
• Brian Kemp, Governor of Georgia: "Take this time to secure food, fill up on gas and ensure you’re prepared for any potential loss of power." [1]
• Pablo Vegas, President of ERCOT: "There are no reliability concerns this time around." [1]

Key Facts

• Eastern U.S. braces as brutal winter storm takes shape: A powerful storm is developing east of the Rockies with the potential for heavy snow and icy conditions. The piece notes that such events can occur even in a warming world and that warming does not rule out severe winter weather. The narrative frames this storm within the broader context of climate change, highlighting that multiple factors interact to produce extreme cold and snow. [1][4]
• West records warmest winter on record, ski regions starved for snow: The article notes Western states are experiencing their warmest winter on record, with Colorado and other ski areas facing a lack of snowfall. This illustrates the uneven effects of a warming climate, where some regions warm dramatically while others experience extreme cold spells. [1][3]
• Coldest temperatures in major cities rising since 1970: Climate Central data show that the yearly minimum temperatures in cities like Minneapolis and Cleveland have risen since 1970, suggesting winters are not as cold as they used to be even as unusual cold snaps occur. The trend underscores how climate change is reshaping winter extremes. [4]
• Arctic air arrives courtesy of a stretched polar vortex: Experts describe the Arctic cold invading the U.S. as driven by a polar vortex that is stretching and dipping south, creating a large dip in the jet stream across the Central and Eastern states. This mechanism helps explain the current cold spell despite overall warming. [5]
• Vortex stretching linked to Arctic sea-ice changes: MIT researcher Judah Cohen ties the stretching of the vortex to Arctic sea-ice loss and reduced sea ice in the Barents and Kara Seas, noting a relationship between stretched vortex events and more extreme winter weather in the mid-latitudes. He cautions that attributing any single storm to climate change is misguided, but the changes may have loaded the dice for severe cold events. [1]
• Experts caution against attributing a single event to climate change: Jennifer Francis of the Woodwell Climate Research Center emphasizes that warmer winters are the global trend, yet the same warming can coexist with severe winter weather, as other factors are rising that can fuel extreme cold and snowfall events. [1]

Who Said What

• Jennifer Francis, Researcher at the Woodwell Climate Research Center: Even though global warming is causing warmer winters overall, severe winter weather events are still possible — and perhaps even more likely — because warming is not the only consequence of human-caused climate change. Other ingredients that set the stage for severe winter weather are on the rise, and many of them are in play this week. [1]
• Judah Cohen, Research scientist at MIT: There’s clearly this strong relationship between stretched vortex events and extreme winter weather here in the US. [1]

Key Facts

• Winter storm looms across a large region: A powerful winter storm is forecast to blanket a broad stretch of the country with heavy snow and ice. The briefing stresses that the impact will extend beyond grocery runs, demanding broader preparation. Readers are urged to think in terms of days of disruption and isolation, not just a brief outage. This sets the stage for the practical steps that follow. [1]
• Plan for days of isolation, not just outages: The guidance highlights that outages can last days, so households should be ready for limited mobility and services. It recommends keeping radios charged, phones powered, and having backups for essential medical equipment. It also emphasizes having warm layers and blankets ready to conserve heat if travel or assistance is delayed. The aim is to avoid scrambling when conditions worsen. [1]
• Three-day food and water supply advised: Officials advise stocking enough food and water for at least three days per person, including provisions for pets. This aligns with federal guidance on emergency preparedness and accounts for potential supply chain or mobility disruptions. The plan stresses planning ahead to reduce dependency on electricity and quick access to essentials during a storm. Readers are urged to consider both nonperishable foods and water storage. [1]
• Stock shelf-stable pantry items that don’t require electricity: The article urges focusing on pantry items that can be stored without power or cooking. The emphasis is on nonperishable foods and items that help sustain households during outages when refrigeration may be unavailable. This approach reduces reliance on electricity and supports longer periods without normal services. [2]
• Protect pipes and prevent water damage: Advice includes opening cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around pipes and letting faucets drip during freezing conditions. Homeowners should disconnect garden hoses and, if possible, cover exterior spigots to minimize the risk of frozen or burst pipes. These steps aim to reduce costly water damage during cold snaps. [1]
• Avoid indoor use of grills or generators; prepare warmth and vehicles: The guidance warns against using grills, camp stoves, or generators indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It advises layering clothing, using blankets, and closing off unused rooms to preserve heat if power is out. It also emphasizes early vehicle readiness, with a full gas tank and essentials like blankets, extra clothing, and a phone charger in case travel becomes necessary after the storm. [3][1][4]

Key Facts

• Palisades site poised for first US SMR restart: The Palisades nuclear plant on Lake Michigan, decommissioned in 2022, is being revived by Holtec as a test bed for America’s first commercial small modular reactors. Holtec plans to run two 300-megawatt SMRs alongside the existing 800-megawatt reactor and has begun licensing with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, aiming for regulatory approval by 2029 and online operation by 2031. The broader plan is to demonstrate an SMR fleet in North America in the 2030s, with Hyundai Engineering & Construction as a partner. [1]
• SMRs pitched as cheaper, safer, modular power with risks: Advocates say SMRs reduce upfront costs and use factory-made modules, potentially offering continuous carbon-free power. Yet experts warn that total costs can still be high and electricity from SMRs may remain more expensive than wind, solar or gas, with long timelines and limited current production capacity contributing to uncertainty. [1]
• Kairos Power breaks ground; Google deal supports its path: California-based Kairos Power began construction on a demonstration reactor in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, with operations tentatively set for 2028. A commercial-scale reactor could follow by 2030, using molten fluoride salt as a coolant instead of water. Google has backed Kairos with a deal to deploy a fleet totaling about 500 megawatts to power data centers, signaling big tech interest in the technology. [3][1]
• Tech sector bets widen: Meta-Oklo and Amazon-X-Energy: Meta announced a deal with SMR startup Oklo to prepay for power and help build a campus in Pike County, Ohio to support data centers. Amazon invested in X-Energy, a gas-cooled SMR developer planning up to 12 reactors at a new Washington state facility, reflecting growing corporate involvement in the SMR push. [5][4][1]
• U.S. funding and regulatory approvals shape the race: The Department of Energy approved about 800 million dollars toward SMR development, including a multi-million grant to Holtec. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has certified the first US SMR design from NuScale Power, though a separate NuScale project in Idaho was canceled in 2023 as costs rose, underscoring ongoing cost pressures. [6][7][8]
• Experts debate whether the pace can be sustained: A line of experts argues that while SMRs offer potential, they remain expensive and face fuel supply and safety challenges. Some say a rushed regulatory push could undermine safety, while others believe careful, properly regulated progress could yield benefits; the overall viability remains contested. [1]

Who Said What

• Michael Craig, associate professor of energy systems and climate, University of Michigan: They’re in this perfect ground where there’s lots of great ideas … and they have a lot of promise and potential. [1]
• Edwin Lyman, director of nuclear power safety, Union of Concerned Scientists: They are too expensive. [1]
• Allison Macfarlane, director of the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs, University of British Columbia: Just eliminating regulations without much thought is dangerous. [1]
• Brendan Kochunas, associate professor, University of Michigan Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences: I don’t think there’s any inherent concerns to safety by prioritizing and fast tracking SMRs. [1]
• Rian Bahran, deputy assistant secretary for nuclear reactors, Department of Energy: The deployment of advanced reactors is a priority for the Trump administration. Additional funds will be invested in the research, development, and deployment of these technologies. [1]

Key Facts

• Officer who shot Renee Good recorded on cellphone: CNN reviewed footage showing the officer recording the encounter, including the shooting, on a cellphone. The footage raises questions about how devices are used in operations. Advocates worry such practices can complicate accountability when body cameras are not universal. [1]
• Mobile Fortify facial recognition app used in field: The app lets officers scan faces and retrieve data from immigration databases. It was rolled out under DHS and is used on government-issued phones. The CNN review shows agents using it during street encounters, not only in processing centers. [1][8]
• No universal ICE policy on recording interactions: ICE and DHS lack a nationwide policy on filming during operations. Biden’s 2022 executive order urged body cameras; Trump’s 2025 rescission left gaps, and some offices did not adopt policies. [1][4][6][5]
• Privacy concerns spark scrutiny and lawsuits: Lawmakers pressed ICE for details about Mobile Fortify; Sen. Ed Markey criticized the tool as overbroad; an Illinois lawsuit alleges rights violations due to indiscriminate use. [10][11][1]
• Budget to expand ICE body-camera access: DHS plans to use funds from a major policy bill to expand body-camera access for ICE, though specifics on new policies remain unclear. [3][1]
• White House defends use of recordings: Officials framed video recordings as lawful and needed to communicate operations, while some experts warn about potential footage manipulation. [1]

Who Said What

• Ed Markey, Massachusetts Democratic Senator: It’s draconian, dangerous, and deceptive. Our faces are not barcodes for ICE to scan and track. [1][11]
• Abigail Jackson, White House spokesperson: The Administration is using all the tools in our toolbox to share the truth with the American people. [1]
• Becca Good, Renee Good’s wife: The couple had stopped to support our neighbors before the shooting. [1]
• Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar: We’re going to create a database where those people that are arrested ... we’re going to make them famous. [1]
• DHS spokesperson, DHS spokesperson: Mobile Fortify is a lawful law-enforcement tool governed by strict guidelines; data access, use, and retention are limited by privacy oversight. [1]

Key Facts

• Trump Greenland gambit tests US-Europe unity: The Kremlin has long aimed to drive a wedge between the United States and Europe by promoting disinformation and undermining Western institutions. NATO, a cornerstone of Western defense, is viewed by Moscow as a barrier to its goals. The Greenland debate is framed as a potential flashpoint that could fracture transatlantic cohesion and embolden Russian aims in Europe and the Arctic. Western unity over Greenland could determine the alliance’s ability to respond to Moscow’s broader strategy. [1]
• Kallas: China and Russia celebrate NATO split: Kaja Kallas, the EU's foreign policy chief, posted on X that China and Russia must be having a field day after Trump threatened extraordinary tariffs on European allies who oppose a US takeover. The remark underscores Western fears that US policy could erode European unity and complicate support for Ukraine. The Greenland issue is thus cast as a proxy battle over alliance coherence, not just a Danish territory. [4]
• Russian state media hail Trump moves as NATO blow: Pro-Kremlin pundits on state television celebrated Trump's Greenland strategy, calling it a 'catastrophic blow to NATO' and 'truly tremendous for Russia.' The coverage reflects Moscow's expectation that Western disunity would bolster its regional leverage, at least in the near term. [1]
• Peskov says Trump acted outside international law: Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Trump's Greenland actions were 'operating outside the norms of international law' as Moscow weighs its own Arctic interests. The response signals a calibrated approach amid broader concerns about US power and unilateral action. [1]
• Putin condemns unilateralism in foreign policy speech: In his first foreign policy address of the year, Vladimir Putin decried unilateral, might-makes-right actions and urged dialogue and compromise. The remarks frame Washington's Greenland moves within a broader critique of US leadership and the rules-based international order. [1]
• Moskovskij Komsomolets calls Trump destabilizing: The Russian tabloid described Trump as the 'chief doctor of the madhouse,' suggesting instability at the top of US policy and implying that such leadership could complicate Moscow's planning and strategy. [1]

Who Said What

• Kaja Kallas, EU foreign policy chief: "China and Russia must be having a field day," observed on X after Trump threatened extraordinary tariffs on European allies who oppose a US takeover. [4]
• Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesman: "Trump was, on Greenland, operating outside the norms of international law." [1]
• Vladimir Putin, President of Russia: "Unilateral and dangerous actions often substitute diplomacy, efforts to come to a compromise or find solutions which would suit everyone. Instead of having states engage in dialogue with one another, there are those relying on the might-makes-right principle to assert their unilateral narratives, those who believe that they can impose their will, lecture others how they must live and issue orders." [1]
• Moskovskij Komsomolets, Russian tabloid: "we get the feeling that the head doctor of the asylum has gone mad too, and that everything has gone to pieces." [1]

Key Facts

• Secret bunker under East Wing ordered in 1941: Roosevelt ordered a secure underground facility for the presidency in the wake of Pearl Harbor. Public acknowledgment was avoided, and the space included a protected area and the Presidential Emergency Operations Center. Over the years the bunker served various security and planning roles before the East Wing renovation began its current phase. The underground complex has been described as a self-contained system with multiple redundancies. [2]
• East Wing expansion proceeds with a new ballroom: The East Wing is undergoing a major extension in preparation for a sprawling new ballroom associated with the Trump administration’s plans. Demolition work began in October, and the project has moved forward with the underground spaces dismantled. Clark Construction and Shalom Baranes Architects are leading the build, underscoring the scale and security emphasis of the effort. [3][4][5]
• Underground facilities dismantled as part of demolition: Officials describe the historic underground facilities, including the bunker and related infrastructure, as having been dismantled in the process of clearing space for the East Wing upgrades. The narrative notes that the underground network was substantial and separate from above-ground work, reflecting its unique security role. [1]
• Top-secret underground work cited as reason to bypass NCPC review: White House management official Joshua Fisher said some elements of the project are top-secret, which forced a deviation from the National Capital Planning Commission’s standard approval process. He indicated this secrecy could influence how the above-ground structure is altered while maintaining security considerations. [1]
• Future underground work to counter evolving threats with new technology: Experts anticipate the underground replacement will incorporate advanced technologies to address kinetic, chemical, biological, and other threats without revealing sensitive capabilities. There is no public disclosure of the subterranean costs, and officials note that the overall ballroom price tag is separate and publicly discussed. [1]

Who Said What

• Joshua Fisher, White House director of management and administration: “There are some things regarding this project that are, frankly, of top-secret nature that we are currently working on. That does not preclude us from changing the above-ground structure, but that work needed to be considered when doing this project, which was not part of the NCPC process.” [1]
• Jonathan Wackrow, former US Secret Service agent; CNN contributor: “The PEOC is used during emergencies. It’s not something that everybody goes to.” and “The Situation Room is used almost by the whole of government, 24 hours-a day.” [1]

Key Facts

• Measured governance marks Mamdani’s early weeks: He has shifted to a cautious, measured approach, embracing policy wins when possible while pulling back from some of his earlier, more vocal positions. The cadence at City Hall signals a deliberate effort to govern rather than campaign, as he navigates competing pressures from budget realities and public safety concerns. [1]
• Hochul’s pre-K funding plan earns standing ovation; Mamdani stays seated: During the State of the State address, Hochul unveiled a funding plan for expanded pre-kindergarten that partly aligns with Mamdani’s campaign goals. He joined the ovation but did not publicly advocate for tax changes in that moment, reflecting a cautious balance between support and how to pay for it. [1]
• Mamdani maintains frequent communication with Hochul to push the agenda: Text messages and calls with the governor accompany early policy wins, underscoring a working partnership with the state as Mamdani advances his aggressive reform agenda. [1]
• Budget pressures loom with a $2B current-year deficit and $10B next-year gap: A city comptroller’s report warns of a sizeable fiscal gap, constraining lawmakers and the new administration as it pursues expanded social programs and faster permitting reforms. [1]
• Israel-antisemitism controversy tests tenure; orders reversed then debated: Mamdani reversed former mayoral orders that defined antisemitism and blocked divestment campaigns against Israel. He faced a delayed response to a synagogue protest and later condemned the protest language while pledging to protect worship and protest rights. [6][1]
• Police relations and public safety challenges mark early tenure: Two fatal police-involved shootings provide an early test of his approach to policing and reform. Mamdani retained Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch in a move praised by moderates and police groups, as he navigates calls for reform with support from the NYPD leadership. [9][1]

Who Said What

• Trip Yang, Democratic political strategist: "The defining characteristic of the first weeks of this new mayor is that he course corrects very quickly." [1]
• Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City: "There is no question that New York City requires additional recurring revenue." [1]
• Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City: "I look forward to making the case directly to our partners in Albany." [1]
• Patrick Hendry, President of the Police Benevolent Association: "He has refrained from speculating or prejudging the incidents while they are under investigation. That is what New York City police officers need to see from all of our elected leaders." [1]
• Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City: "The language used by demonstrators is wrong." [1]
• Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City: "What I will tell you is that I am appreciative of the work that the NYPD continues to do in responding to public safety needs." [1]

Key Facts

• Sinners earns 16 Oscar nominations: Ryan Coogler's period vampire horror film breaks the single-film nominations record with 16, landing nominations in best film, best director and best original screenplay. Michael B. Jordan is nominated for best actor, and Wunmi Mosaku and Delroy Lindo are up for supporting roles. The accomplishment positions Sinners at the top of the nominees list. [1]
• One Battle After Another garners 13 nominations: The film racks up 13 nominations, with Teyana Taylor, the film’s Golden Globe-winner, contending in supporting actress alongside Mosaku, and Delroy Lindo facing competition from Sean Penn and Benicio del Toro in other categories. The main article notes the film’s strong showing and its Golden Globe connection is referenced to an external analysis. [1][3]
• Ceremony date and host announced: The Oscars are scheduled to air on ABC on March 15, with Conan O’Brien returning as host. The nominations are read by Lewis Pullman and Danielle Brooks, highlighting the formal announcement of Hollywood’s biggest night. [1]
• Best Picture nominees list includes Sinners: A slate of Best Picture nominees features Sinners among titles such as Bugonia, F1, Frankenstein, Hamnet, Marty Supreme, One Battle After Another, The Secret Agent, Sentimental Value and Train Dreams. The list sets the field for the ceremony’s top prize. [1]
• Top directing nominees include Coogler and peers: Ryan Coogler is named Best Director for Sinners, joined by Chloé Zhao for Hamnet, Josh Safdie for Marty Supreme, Joachim Trier for Sentimental Value, and Paul Thomas Anderson for One Battle After Another, illustrating a diverse slate of auteurs across the night’s major categories. [1]
• Nomination announcements read by Pullman and Brooks: The list of nominees was read by Lewis Pullman and Danielle Brooks, signifying the official rollout of the nominations and signaling the scope of contenders across acting, directing and technical categories. [1]

Key Facts

• Klobuchar files to form Minnesota governor campaign: The senator filed paperwork on Thursday to establish a campaign committee for a bid to become Minnesota's governor. A close Klobuchar aide described the move as a preliminary step and said an official announcement would come in coming days. The timing follows a broader political upheaval in Minnesota focused on immigration and state investigations. Klobuchar has long been seen as a leading potential Democratic candidate in a state central to national debates. [1]
• Walz abandons reelection bid amid fraud probe: Gov. Tim Walz abruptly dropped his bid for a third term in the wake of a widening federal probe into welfare fraud in Minnesota. The scandal has reshaped state politics and drawn national attention as investigations continue. Protests and tensions over immigration have also intensified the political environment in Minnesota. [1]
• Trump plan to freeze $10B, DHS crackdown in Minnesota: The Trump administration announced plans to freeze about $10 billion in social service and child-care funding in Minnesota and four other Democratic-led states. At the same time, the Department of Homeland Security launched an aggressive immigration crackdown in Minnesota, deploying about 2,000 federal agents and auditing federal dollars for social programs. [3][4]
• Renee Good shooting amplifies political tensions: The Jan. 7 shooting of Renee Good, a 37-year-old Minneapolis mother of three, added a sharp new layer to the state’s political discourse surrounding public safety and immigration policy. The incident occurred amid ongoing scrutiny of state programs and federal enforcement actions. Minnesota’s political dynamics are now influenced by both the welfare investigation and broader national security debates. [1]
• Klobuchar’s experience positions her for governor: Klobuchar, 65, is a long-serving senator and former Hennepin County Attorney known for electoral success across difficult contests. Her potential candidacy could consolidate Democratic support in a race that also features Republican contenders and a high-stakes national immigration debate. She has previously pursued the presidency, underscoring her willingness to test national appeal while considering a return home to Minnesota. [1]
• Possible resignation if Klobuchar wins governor: Aides note that if Klobuchar wins the governorship, she could resign from the Senate to allow Gov. Walz to appoint a successor or choose a replacement after being sworn in. If she does not win, she could return to the Senate. The scenario underscores how a governor’s race could reshape Minnesota’s political landscape. [1]

Who Said What

• Amy Klobuchar, U.S. Senator from Minnesota: "Minnesota is right now the center of America’s heartbreak," Klobuchar told CNN. [1]
• Amy Klobuchar, U.S. Senator from Minnesota: "I love my job," Klobuchar told CNN as she worked through her decision whether to leave the Senate. "I love my state." [1]
• Amy Klobuchar, U.S. Senator from Minnesota: "Who do you want heading that ticket? Someone who can really win in the Midwest," Klobuchar told CNN in a 2019 interview. [1]
• Amy Klobuchar, U.S. Senator from Minnesota: "It is critical there be a thorough, objective and impartial investigation." [1]
• Klobuchar adviser, Advisor to Klobuchar: "This is a preliminary step necessary for any candidate considering a run," a person close to Klobuchar told CNN. [1]
• Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota: "I caution Minnesotans: This is going to get worse before it gets better. This is because Donald Trump is in trouble." [1]

Key Facts

• White House links left-hand bruise to Davos signing: The White House said the bruising appeared after President Trump struck the corner of the signing table at the Board of Peace event in Davos, with Karoline Leavitt issuing the statement. [1]
• A White House official cites aspirin as a cause: An official noted that Trump and his physicians have previously said daily aspirin can make bruising more likely, and photos from the trip reportedly showed no bruising earlier. [1]
• Bruising appeared after signing, not at start: Video from the start of the event did not show heavy bruising; the bruise became noticeable roughly 10 minutes later as he signed several documents. [1]
• Trump has a history of right-hand bruising: Trump has long had bruising on his right hand, with attention growing after he attempted to conceal it with makeup and shield it with his other hand. [1]
• Trump says aspirin helps thinning the blood: In a Wall Street Journal interview, Trump said he takes a higher daily aspirin dose than doctors recommend, arguing that aspirin is good for thinning the blood. [3]
• Aspirin-dose guidance framed within a wide range: The article notes that guidance places daily aspirin therapy within a range of 75 to 325 milligrams, with 81 milligrams commonly used for low-dose regimens. [1]

Who Said What

• Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary: "At the Board of Peace event today in Davos, President Trump hit his hand on the corner of the signing table, causing it to bruise." [1]
• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "aspirin is good for thinning out the blood" [3]

Key Facts

• Trump narrows Fed chair field after Davos remarks: Trump signaled at Davos that Hassett remains the front‑runner, effectively trimming the field from a longer list. He indicated the search is down to roughly three candidates as Powell’s term nears its end, with the White House not commenting publicly on the process yet. The development reflects ongoing tension between market-friendly aims and the political dimensions of the appointment. [1][6]
• Rieder gains momentum after Oval Office meeting: BlackRock’s Rick Rieder impressed Trump during a sit‑down with the president and aides, marking him as a leading contender. He has long been on the Fed shortlist but lacks formal Fed or government experience, a trait some White House aides view as a strategic opportunity to shake up the central bank. [1]
• Final four named: Hassett, Warsh, Waller, and Rieder: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent led the search and presented four finalists: Hassett, Warsh, Waller, and Rieder. Hassett has been viewed as the front‑runner; Warsh and Waller bring Fed experience, while Rieder represents the outsider track in the group. [1][3][4][5]
• Rieder advocates rate cuts, targets 3% rate: Rieder described a path of modest rate reductions, saying the policy rate could move toward 3% with additional cuts. He argued such a move would be helpful to much of the country, noting that higher rates tend to aid savers and older investors. [1]
• Process faces challenge of balancing loyalties and markets: Observers note the difficulty of appointing a Trump loyalist who is also palatable to financial markets and Congress while preserving Fed independence. The White House has signaled it will wait for a final decision before commenting further. [1]

Who Said What

• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "Rieder was very impressive." [1]
• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "We're down to three, but we're down to two. And I can probably tell you, we're down to maybe one, in my mind." [1]

Key Facts

• Qatari-donated VC-25 to be delivered by summer: The Air Force said the modified Boeing 747-based jet will be delivered no later than summer 2026. The aircraft was donated by Qatar to support the Presidential airlift mission and has been undergoing extensive modifications. The Wall Street Journal first reported the summer delivery as the project progressed. [1][2]
• Trump claimed February 2026 readiness: Former President Donald Trump said the plane could be ready to use by February 2026, a timeline that officials say would require rapid progress given the scope of conversion. [1]
• Conversion began last year; many details classified: The US began converting the jet last year, with many modification details kept classified. CNN previously reported the scope includes stripping the frame and rebuilding it with specialized communications and security equipment. [1][3]
• Unconditional donation; US to cover conversion costs: An agreement signed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and his Qatari counterpart described the donation as unconditional, with the United States not paying Qatar. The article notes the US was still expected to spend hundreds of millions on converting the aircraft. [1]
• Electrical issue affects Trump Europe trip; switches to C-32A: Earlier this week an electrical issue forced Trump’s Europe-bound plane to turn back to Andrews. To resume the trip he switched to a Boeing C-32A, a plane typically used by the first lady or Cabinet members. [3]

Who Said What

• Air Force spokesperson, Air Force spokesperson: Air Force officials say they are accelerating the project and aiming for delivery by no later than summer 2026. [1]
• Donald Trump, Former President: Trump previously said the aircraft could be ready to use by February 2026. [1]
• Retired senior military official, Retired senior military official: A retired official described the process as requiring thorough security hardening of the electronics and airframe to prevent tampering, noting that ensuring presidential command and control would take substantial effort. [1]

Key Facts

• Signing ceremony at Davos draws fewer than 20 signatories: A signing ceremony on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos drew fewer than 20 countries, far fewer than officials had predicted. European leaders were largely absent, with Hungary the only Western European nation represented on stage. [1]
• Lukashenko signs up; Putin's membership unclear: Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko has joined the Board of Peace. President Vladimir Putin has been floated as a member, but there is no confirmation of his participation yet. [1]
• Charter reframes board as international body beyond Gaza: The charter describes the Board of Peace as an international organization aimed at stability, peace and governance in conflict areas, not limited to Gaza, despite its Gaza-focused origins. Trump will chair indefinitely. [1]
• UN Security Council backed the plan in November: The Security Council vote in November endorsed the plan, providing international legitimacy for the board’s mission and its broader remit. [4]
• Three-year terms then a $1 billion permanent-seat fee; funds reportedly go to Gaza rebuilding: Members serve three-year terms and must later pay a $1 billion fee for a permanent seat. Funds raised are intended for Gaza reconstruction, according to a US official cited in coverage. [1][7]
• Controversy grows over potential to replace the UN: Trump has publicly floated that the board might replace the United Nations, a suggestion that has intensified concerns about the board expanding beyond its original mandate and jeopardizing UN work. [8]

Who Said What

• Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser: peace is a different deal than a business deal. [1]
• Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser: the administration’s master plan for redeveloping Gaza does not have a plan B. [1]
• Donald J. Trump, President of the United States: I am a real estate person at heart. [1]
• Donald J. Trump, President of the United States: I have some controversial people on it. [1]
• Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine: it was difficult to see being together with Russia in any council. [1]
• Yvette Cooper, British Foreign Secretary: we would not sign up because this is about a legal treaty that raises broader issues. [1]

Key Facts

• Trump's Greenland push strains transatlantic ties: Over the past week, Trump threatened tariffs on nations opposing his bid to annex Greenland, provoking a standoff with Denmark and allies. Denmark resisted, and a European diplomat described the week as a whirlpool of absurdity that damages transatlantic relations. The tension spilled into Davos, complicating discussions at the World Economic Forum. [1]
• Trump backs away from annexation threats, frames future deal: In Davos, he ruled out using military force and dropped threatened tariffs. He later announced the framework of a future deal over Greenland after a bilateral meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. [1]
• European Parliament blocks vote on US-EU trade deal: A key group of European Parliament members blocked a vote to ratify a US-European trade deal, underscoring tensions between the transatlantic partners and complicating a broader US push in Europe. The move also highlighted Europe’s cautious stance amid security frictions linked to Greenland. Lawmakers signaled that concessions on trade must be balanced with strategic concerns. [1]
• Merz urges renewed NATO faith and defense investment: German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Europe to renew its faith in NATO and invest massively in defense. He argued Europe must defend sovereignty and territorial integrity while building closer unity among like-minded partners. His remarks framed security as a shared priority in a shifting global order. [1]
• Støre stresses ongoing NATO cooperation despite strains: Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized day-by-day cooperation among NATO members, noting that Europe and the United States face challenges but remain strong democracies with a shared security history. He framed the alliance as a practical, ongoing project even as tensions rise. [1]
• Michel says transatlantic order is dead: Former European Council president Charles Michel warned that the long-standing transatlantic relationship is effectively over, calling for a shift in approach ahead of an EU emergency summit. He argued Europeans must pursue a new path rather than flattering diplomacy that emboldens US policy. [1]

Who Said What

• Ebba Busch, Swedish Deputy Prime Minister: "Trust has been truly damaged, and this will take time to repair." [1]
• Friedrich Merz, German Chancellor: "The old world order is unraveling at a breathtaking pace. We must invest massively in our ability to defend ourselves. We must rapidly make our economies competitive. We must stand closer together, among Europeans and among like-minded partners." [1]
• Jonas Gahr Støre, Norwegian Prime Minister: "NATO countries are cooperating day-by-day very closely. Europe has its challenges. The United States has its challenges, but they’re all strong democracies, and they are allies in NATO. We have great security to look after us and a very proud history of collaborating on that." [1]
• Dovilė Šakalienė, Lithuanian lawmaker and former defense minister: "Europe is not yet ready to stand alone. It is going to take at least five to 10 years until we are on a somewhat similar level with the United States armed forces." [1]
• Alexander Stubb, Finnish President: "It’s in the vested interest of the United States to stay in NATO, though the US has been carrying the biggest share of NATO’s defense. Europe prefers multilateralism … the liberal world order, while the US leans toward multipolarity … deals, transactions and sphere of interests." [1]
• Charles Michel, Former European Council president: "The transatlantic relationship as we’ve known it for decades is dead. Europe will have to go through a period of political confrontation with the US as it reasserts itself." [1]

Key Facts

• Trump frames Greenland framework as future deal: Trump announced a verbal framework for a Greenland agreement after a surprise statement, while fellow officials offered little detail. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte declined to discuss terms beyond referring to Trump's post. CNN notes that no substantive terms were disclosed, leaving questions about ownership and scope. [1]
• Trump avoids answering ownership question: When pressed, Trump paused and did not confirm whether he seeks ownership of Greenland. He described the framework as long-term, saying it is infinite and forever. The exchange underscored that the central demand may not be advancing decisively. [1]
• Framework appears to echo the 1951 pact: The piece notes that the 1951 Denmark-US defense pact already allowed a U.S. military presence in Greenland in perpetuity, so the proposed framework may largely restate existing arrangements. Updates to the deal in 2004 expanded and clarified capabilities and governance. [8][9]
• No formal document yet, terms unsettled: CNN reported that no actual document exists as of the latest reporting, and what has been described is a verbal understanding between Trump and NATO allies. Negotiations are expected to continue through a working group toward formal terms. [5]
• Possible elements: access, NATO role, and minerals: The framework reportedly contemplates total defense access, including a proposed Golden Dome system, and a more active NATO role in Greenland. It also suggests provisions that could exclude rivals like Beijing and Moscow, and revisits mineral rights, though the exact scope remains unclear. [6]
• Reactions signal trust issues and strategic recalculation: Critics argue the episode strained Western alliances and raised questions about U.S. reliability. Nordic and European leaders floated security cooperation and decoupling discussions, while a Times interview context emphasized ownership as a psychological driver for success, complicating negotiations. [13][12][10]

Who Said What

• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "It’s a long-term deal. It’s infinite. It’s a deal that’s forever." [1]
• Donald Trump, President of the United States: "There’s no time limit." [1]
• Mitch McConnell, Senate Republican Leader: "I have yet to hear from this administration a single thing we need from Greenland that this sovereign people is not already willing to grant us." [13]
• New York Times, Media outlet: "Because that’s what I feel is psychologically needed for success… Ownership gives you things that you can’t get from just signing a document." [12]
• Greenlandic Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt, Foreign Minister: "Greenland was committed to finding the ‘right path’ and to strengthening security cooperation." [1]
• Nordic foreign ministers, Group of Nordic foreign ministers: "the 1951 agreement offers opportunities for increased security cooperation." [10]

Key Facts

• Trump claims US alone won World War II at Davos: Trump told a European audience at the World Economic Forum in Davos that the United States won the war on its own. He said, "We won it big," and suggested that without the US, others would be speaking German and a little Japanese. The remarks framed Allied contributions as secondary to American leadership and reshaped the war’s narrative on the world stage. [4]
• Soviet Union suffered the largest Allied casualties: The analysis notes that among the Allies, the Soviet Union bore the largest number of lives lost, with China following, and Americans also dying in large numbers. The piece uses a related external resource to frame the scope of casualties and the broader Allied toll. [5]
• Trump claims bases in Greenland were for Denmark: Trump asserted that the US set up bases on Greenland for Denmark and that, in his framing, the US fought for Denmark rather than for other parties. The article adds nuance about the wartime history, including how the bases were established in the context of a 1940s agreement and subsequent treaties that allowed a sustained American presence. [1]
• Trump casts doubt on NATO allies' willingness to defend the US: In his Davos remarks, Trump questioned whether other NATO members would come to the US defense if needed. The piece notes this runs counter to NATO’s collective-defense framework, highlighting a tension between Trump’s view and alliance norms. [1]
• Canada’s Carney warns of a rupture in the world order: During Davos, Canada’s prime minister warned that the rules-based world order anchored by the US is changing, urging cooperation and a shift toward renewed multilateralism. He described the moment as a rupture rather than a transition. [1]

Who Said What

• Donald Trump, Former President of the United States: "We won it big" and "Without us, right now you’d all be speaking German and a little Japanese, perhaps." He also said, "We fought for Denmark. We weren’t fighting for anyone else," and later asked, "How stupid were we to do that?" [4]
• Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada: "We are in the midst of a rupture, not a transition." [1]
• Harry S. Truman, President of the United States (1945): "That is why, though the United States wants no territory or profit or selfish advantage out of this war, we are going to maintain the military bases necessary for the complete protection of our interests and of world peace." [6]

Key Facts

• Barron Trump calls London police after witnessing assault: A transcript shows Barron Trump reporting from the United States that a girl he was speaking with on a video call was being beaten. He said this was happening eight minutes earlier and that he had just learned how to call someone. The emergency call occurred on Jan 18, 2025, and he is described as 19 years old at the time. [1]
• Transcript presented at Matvei Rumiantsev trial: The transcript of Trump's emergency call was shown during the trial of Matvei Rumiantsev, 22, at Snaresbrook Crown Court in London. Rumiantsev faces charges including assault, actual bodily harm, two counts of rape, intentional strangulation and perverting the course of justice; he denies all charges. Rumiantsev's legal counsel declined to comment when reached by CNN. [1]
• Witness testimony links Trump intervention to saving her life: The woman testified that Trump had stopped Rumiantsev from killing her, a claim reported by British media. She said the emergency call felt like a sign from God at that moment. [1][2]
• Witness cannot be named for legal reasons: The court notes that the woman cannot be named for legal reasons, shielding her identity in proceedings. [1]
• Trial ongoing; White House contacted: The trial continued after the reporting, and CNN has contacted the White House for comment. [1]

Who Said What

• Barron Trump, son of the US president: "I'm calling from the US, I just got a call from a girl… she's getting beat up," Trump said, according to the transcript of his call with police. "This was happening about eight minutes ago. I just figured out how to, how to call someone. It's really an emergency." [1]
• Unnamed female witness, alleged victim who testified: "He helped save my life. That call was like a sign from God at that moment." [2]

Key Facts

• Zelensky-Trump Davos talks signal cautious progress: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with Donald Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos. After the encounter, Trump said there’s still a ways to go on ending Russia’s war. Zelensky noted that documents aimed at stopping the conflict are nearly ready and criticized Europe for inaction. The exchange underscored ongoing negotiations without a declared breakthrough. [2]
• Greenland framework formed but no signed document: Trump said negotiations give the United States total access for defense in Greenland. He and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reached a verbal understanding about Greenland, but no formal document memorializing a future deal has been produced yet. The development signals a framework for a future arrangement while leaving a formal treaty for later. [5][6]
• Board of Peace ceremony in Davos draws limited attendance: Trump unveiled his Board of Peace, aiming to rebuild Gaza and resolve global conflicts. The signing ceremony featured representations from fewer than 20 countries, and Trump described Gaza as a beautiful piece of property as part of the reconstruction vision. The event marked the opening of a second day of Davos engagements. [8][9]
• NATO chief outlines Arctic security push with timeline: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte described a framework for Arctic security among alliance members and said results are expected within the year. He stressed the plan would not divert resources from Ukraine and noted that mining rare earth minerals in Greenland was not part of the discussed talks. [1]
• UK will not sign Board of Peace charter amid Russia concerns: Britain’s foreign secretary said the UK will not sign the Board of Peace treaty due to concerns about Russian involvement, while affirming support for Gaza phase two. She indicated there is a substantial amount of work to do before any signatory decision. [1]
• Danish sovereignty stance remains non-negotiable: Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Denmark cannot negotiate sovereignty over Greenland. NATO’s Mark Rutte said sovereignty was not discussed and no compromise to Danish sovereignty was proposed in the talks. [1]

Who Said What

• Donald Trump, President of the United States: Well, I just want to tell you it’s all happening. [1]
• Donald Trump, President of the United States: Gaza is a beautiful piece of property. [9]
• Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine: Documents aimed at stopping the conflict are nearly ready, and Europe has to act. [2]
• Marco Rubio, Secretary of State: This is not just a Board of Peace, this is a board of action. [5]
• Mark Rutte, NATO Secretary General: Arctic security will be stepped up and we expect results this year. [1]
• Mette Frederiksen, Danish Prime Minister: We cannot negotiate on our sovereignty. [1]

Key Facts

• Swift emerges as ally in Lively–Baldoni case: New unsealed filings show Swift as a close friend providing support to Blake Lively during the dispute. The filings describe messages she exchanged with Lively about Baldoni, including a label of him as a “doofus director.” The documents portray Swift as an engaged confidante as the case unfolds. [1]
• Lively accuses Baldoni of sexual harassment and retaliation: Lively’s suit accuses Baldoni of sexual harassment and coordinating a plan to destroy her reputation. The filings outline concerns raised by Lively and others about on-set behavior and retaliation by Wayfarer Studios when those concerns were raised. [1]
• Swift-Lively exchanges include ‘doofus director’ and ‘tiny violin’ remarks and horror-film analogy: In one exchange, Lively referred to Baldoni as her “doofus director.” A year later, Swift texted about Baldoni ahead of a New York Times story, writing ‘this bitch knows something is coming because he’s gotten out his tiny violin’ and likening the situation to ‘a horror film no one knows is taking place.’ These messages show Swift’s active involvement and the public scrutiny surrounding Baldoni. [1]
• Wayfarer allegedly ignored concerns and retaliated against speakers: The filings depict Wayfarer as understanding the concerns as sexual harassment and refusing to investigate, instead allegedly attempting to bury the accusers through retaliation. The documents frame the company’s response as part of the broader dispute surrounding the film. [1]
• Litigation escalates; Baldoni sues Lively and Reynolds; NYT sues Wayfarer; dismissal follows: Baldoni filed a defamation suit against Lively and Reynolds and later against the New York Times, accusing them of hijacking the film and spreading false narratives. The New York Times responded with its own suit against Wayfarer. A judge later dismissed Baldoni’s suits against Lively, Reynolds, and the Times in a June ruling. [1][5]
• Swift subpoenaed; deposition denied; Lively’s trial date moved to May 2026: Swift was subpoenaed in May 2025 as part of Baldoni’s suit; a judge later denied moving forward with deposing Swift in September 2025. In December 2025, Lively’s suit against Baldoni was postponed from March 9 to May 18, 2026. [6][7][1]

Who Said What

• Sigrid McCawley, Lively’s attorney: “The newly unsealed evidence shows the concerns of Ms. Lively and others were documented in real-time as early as Spring 2023, and Wayfarer understood them as ‘sexual harassment’ concerns. The evidence also documents how Wayfarer refused to investigate, but instead attempted to ‘bury’ Ms. Lively and others who spoke up through retaliation.” [1]
• Bryan Freedman, Lawyer for Baldoni and Wayfarer: “the evidence does not support the claims as a matter of law. A simple read of the newly released message exchanges make the truth abundantly clear. We remain confident in the legal process and clearing the names of all of the Justin Baldoni parties.” [1]
• Taylor Swift, Singer and Blake Lively’s friend: “this bitch knows something is coming because he’s gotten out his tiny violin,” Swift texted Lively, and she described the situation as “a horror film no one knows is taking place.” These messages illustrate Swift’s active involvement and the gravity of the allegations. [1]
• Jenny Slate, Actress referenced in filings: “this has been a really gross and disturbing shoot, and I’m one of many who feel this way.” [1]

Key Facts

• Gonzales acquitted on 29 counts: A Texas jury found Adrian Gonzales not guilty of 29 counts of child endangerment or abandonment related to the Robb Elementary shooting. He was the first officer to reach the campus while the gunman was outside and did not testify in his defense. Judge Sid Harle delivered the verdict after about seven hours of deliberation. He faced potential penalties if convicted on any count. Gonzales declined to speak to the victims’ families after the verdict. [1]
• 77-minute delay before confronting shooter: Hundreds of officers rushed to Robb Elementary, but it took about 77 minutes to confront and kill the shooter. The long timeline is a central part of the investigations into the police response and has shaped public scrutiny of the case. [2]
• Prosecution argued failure to follow training: Special prosecutors contended Gonzales did not follow his active shooter training and failed to stop the gunman in the early moments of the attack. The defense countered that Gonzales did not see the attacker and focused on evacuating students instead. [1]
• Defense argued no sighting of gunman: The defense asserted Gonzales did not observe the gunman when he arrived and instead worked to evacuate students from classrooms, arguing the actions should be judged in context rather than assumed intent. [1]
• Indicted in 2024 with Arredondo: In 2024, Gonzales and former Uvalde CISD Police Chief Pete Arredondo were indicted on criminal charges connected to the delayed response. Arredondo has pleaded not guilty, and a trial date has not been set. [4]
• Flores testimony and postshooting interview: Teacher’s aide Melodye Flores testified about Gonzales’s early minutes after the shooting, saying she directed him where the shooter was headed. A day-after interview with a Texas Ranger and an FBI agent, first reported by CNN, showed Gonzales admitting a tunnel-vision mistake and waiting for backup. [5][6]

Who Said What

• Judge Sid Harle, Texas judge: "I know it was not easy for you," Harle said to the jury after Gonzales was acquitted. "I know everybody was drafted, nobody volunteered." [1]
• Jesse Rizo, Uncle of a Robb Elementary victim: "Sends a signal that you entrust a school system, a school police officer to do what is right, and yet they have failed over and over." [1]
• Velma Duran, Relative of a victim: "You know who went into the ‘fatal funnel’? My sister went into the ‘fatal funnel,’ I can tell you how it happened. Y’all saying she didn’t lock her door. She went into the … she went into the ‘fatal funnel.’ She did it! Not you!" [1]
• Bill Turner, Special prosecutor: "If it’s appropriate to stand outside, hearing 100 shots, while children are being slaughtered, that is your decision to tell the state of Texas. And by the same token, if that is not appropriate, that is not how we expect officers that are charged with the duty of protecting children to act, that will also go out from this courtroom." [1]
• Jason Goss, Defense attorney: "What you’re telling police officers is don’t react, don’t respond. We cannot have law enforcement feel that way. That if they’re not perfect, if they don’t make a perfect decision, then that’s where they go." [1]
• Nico LaHood, Lead defense attorney: "We understand that their separation from their loved one is going to be felt as long as they walk on this earth. We don’t ignore that." [1]

Key Facts

• Flowers from Bondi memorial exceed three tons: In the days after the Bondi Beach attack that left 15 people dead, mourners filled the site with flowers. Nina Sanadze asked the Sydney Jewish Museum to help collect every bloom, resulting in more than three tons of plant material to be preserved and repurposed as memorial art. [1]
• Volunteers dry and sort the flowers for art: The project has drawn more than 100 volunteers who dry the petals, iron them between tissues and sort them color by color. Flowers are transported in large plastic bags, and the team, with florists, identifies the plant species to guide the artistic process. [1]
• Artistic plan uses petals for mixed-media works: Sanadze envisions paintings based on aftermath photographs that extract pigment from petals, plus an indoor garden grown from recovered seeds. She regards the project as a room-by-room installation and even plans to embed decomposed plant matter into seats, flooring and tiles. [1]
• Museum redevelopment anchors the project timeline: The Sydney Jewish Museum is undergoing a major redevelopment, and Sanadze has a year to complete works ahead of its reopening. She also considers artworks that incorporate mourners’ messages and cites a possible indoor garden grown from seeds. [1]
• Project places Bondi flowers in broader antisemitism context: Sanadze frames the work as part of a wider pattern of antisemitism in Australia and notes that the tragedy sits within a climate of dehumanization and violence. The project is intended to connect the attack to broader themes and ongoing community concerns. [1]

Who Said What

• Nina Sanadze, artist: "Honestly, we’re not talking about the attack at all. We’re just talking about flowers," [1]
• Nina Sanadze, artist: "Sometimes people just cry or come for a hug with a heavy, heavy heart." [1]
• Nina Sanadze, artist: "I felt visceral anger." [1]
• Nina Sanadze, artist: "But working with the flowers softened me again and softened my heart." [1]
• Nina Sanadze, artist: "I cannot afford to fall apart. I think the minute I sit down, because I’m exhausted or feel really upset, I cannot get up from the couch. So it’s helped me keep going." [1]

Key Facts

• Ai Weiwei returns to Beijing for three-week trip: Ai arrived in mid-December for a three-week visit, his first return to China in about a decade. He has spent the last ten years living in Germany, the UK and Portugal. The stay has been low-profile, with social posts offering a window into daily life rather than public events. [1]
• China returned Ai Weiwei's passport in 2015: The move allowed him to travel for the first time since authorities revoked his passport in 2011. He subsequently lived in Berlin before moving to other European countries. The development is cited as enabling his long absence from China. [2]
• Family reunions mark the visit: Photos show Ai with his son, nearly 17, as they walk out of Beijing Capital International Airport and reunite with his 93-year-old mother. The social posts and everyday scenes underscore the trip's quiet, personal nature. [1]
• Glimpses of the trip appear on Instagram: Glimpses from the Beijing trip include winter scenery, meals, and other everyday moments. The Instagram posts provide a rare, under-the-radar glimpse of Ai's activities during the visit. [4]
• Airport interrogation lasts about two hours: Ai was inspected and interrogated for almost two hours at Beijing's airport before immigration, with officials asking how long he planned to stay and where else he would travel. [1]
• Ai positions China as rising, West as in decline: Across his remarks, he frames China as being in an upward phase while suggesting Western societies are in decline, reflecting his long-standing, nuanced view of politics and culture. [1]

Who Said What

• Ai Weiwei, artist and dissident: "It felt like a phone call that had been disconnected for 10 years suddenly reconnecting." [1]
• Ai Weiwei, artist and dissident: "What I missed most was speaking Chinese." [1]
• Ai Weiwei, artist and dissident: "Even when I lived under great difficulty, I still felt that this identity gave me the fundamental right to return to my place of birth." [1]

Key Facts

• Osaka opens AO with ornate walk-on: Naomi Osaka strolled onto Rod Laver Arena wearing a wide-brim hat, a veil, and a white parasol. Butterflies adorned the hat and umbrella, a nod to her 2021 Melbourne title run rather than the usual first-round jitters. The striking entrance set a confident tone for a player who has long used fashion to tell a personal story on tennis' biggest stages. [1]
• Osaka defeats Antonia Ruzic in three sets: She fought through a decisive stretch to win 6-3, 3-6, 6-4 on Day 3 at Rod Laver Arena, earning a spot in the tournament's second round. The result helps counter the pressure that often accompanies a bold entrance. Osaka keeps her momentum alive as she pursues another deep Grand Slam run. [1]
• Butterflies nod to 2021 Melbourne title moment: Butterflies on the hat and parasol echo the butterfly moment from Osaka's 2021 Melbourne Park title run. The motif is presented as a deliberate link to past success rather than nerves, reinforcing the fashion moment as part of her narrative. [1]
• Dress design intertwined with Nike collaboration: Osaka told Nike to let her design the first-round dress, a process that took months. The look tied into a broader remodel of the Rod Laver Arena tunnel with Australian imagery like beaches and the coast, creating a cohesive water-themed departure from the player tunnel. [1]
• Next opponent is Sorana Cirstea: Osaka advances to a second-round match against Sorana Cirstea, who defeated Eva Lys in three sets to move on. The pairing keeps Osaka on a path toward a deep run in the tournament. [1]
• Jellyfish motif inspires first-round dress: The blue and green dress used a jellyfish motif, a deliberate choice Osaka described as part of the ocean-inspired theme that resonates with her butterfly moment from 2021 Melbourne. [1]

Who Said What

• Naomi Osaka, Tennis player: Keep your head on the path. If she beats you, that's unfortunate. But at least you're trending. [1]
• Naomi Osaka, Tennis player: Let me design this one. [1]
• Naomi Osaka, Tennis player: So, the inspiration was obviously the jellyfish, then butterflies, which kind of ties back to the butterfly moment I had here a long time ago, in 2021. [1]

Key Facts

• Holmes seeks Trump clemency for early release: Holmes filed a clemency request with the Department of Justice last year. She was convicted in 2022 and began serving an 11-year sentence at a Texas federal prison in 2023, with the term set to end in December 2031. If granted, the request could release her nearly six years sooner. The White House does not comment on clemency requests, and the final decision rests with the president. [1]
• Convictions upheld; restitution order confirmed: An appeals court upheld Holmes and Theranos President Ramesh Balwani's convictions. It also upheld the $452 million restitution ordered to victims. The rulings, reported last year, reinforce the criminal judgment against Holmes and Balwani. [3][4]
• Theranos founder's rise and fall outlined: Holmes founded Theranos, a company once valued at billions and praised for promising blood tests with minimal samples. A Wall Street Journal investigation cast doubt on testing methods, contributing to the company's collapse. Holmes and Balwani were charged with 12 counts of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and both pleaded not guilty. [5][6]
• Holmes serving sentence at Bryan federal prison camp: Holmes is serving her sentence at Federal Prison Camp Bryan, a minimum-security facility about 100 miles from Houston. She began serving in 2023 after her 2022 conviction, with the 11-year term ending in 2031. [1]
• Holmes’ X posts draw renewed attention, including Trump health plan praise: Holmes' X account has resurfaced in recent months with posts linked to Trump, including praise for his health care affordability efforts. The account describes posts as 'mostly my words, posted by others,' and it is unclear who manages it. The connection to Trump adds political resonance to her clemency bid. [7][8]
• Trump has issued high-profile pardons during his second term: The report notes Trump has granted pardons in notable cases, including Binance founder Zhao and Ross Ulbricht, illustrating the breadth of clemency activity in his second term. [9][10]

Who Said What

• Elizabeth Holmes, incarcerated former CEO of Theranos: "We are continuing to fight for my innocence and we know the truth can not be repressed for ever (sic)," Holmes’ account posted Wednesday evening. [8]

Key Facts

• Collins confirms 24-hour live-in nurse for meds: In a BBC Eras interview, the former Genesis frontman describes ongoing health problems, including knee surgeries, and says a 24-hour live-in nurse oversees his medication. He says five knee operations limit his mobility and that he relies on help to stay on track with treatment. He also recounts a health downturn that included catching Covid in hospital and kidney issues. [1]
• Last live concert in 2022; future unclear: Collins notes he hopes to regain full mobility but is uncertain about performing live again. His last concert took place in 2022, and he has not announced plans for a future tour. [1]
• Back surgery 2015; nerve damage; 2017 fall with cane: He underwent back surgery in 2015, which left him with nerve damage. A 2017 fall resulted in him using a cane to assist with walking, a setback in his health trajectory. [1][4]
• Divorced three times; father of four other children: Collins is three-times divorced and has four other children besides Nic, including Lily Collins. [1]
• Lily Collins stars in Emily in Paris: Lily Collins, Phil’s daughter, is the protagonist of the Netflix show Emily in Paris. [1]
• BBC interview preview and TV airing: A television version of the interview is planned to air on the BBC on January 31. [1]

Who Said What

• Phil Collins, British musician, former Genesis frontman: "I have a 24-hour, live-in nurse to make sure I take my medication as I should do." [1]
• Phil Collins, British musician, former Genesis frontman: "I’d probably been drinking too much, and so my kidneys were messed up." [1]
• Phil Collins, British musician, former Genesis frontman: "It is just one of those things that happened and it all caught up with me and I spent months in hospital." [1]
• Phil Collins, British musician, former Genesis frontman: "I couldn’t have wished for a more varied and eventful playing career." [1]
• Phil Collins, British musician, former Genesis frontman: "My kids are amazingly well-adjusted considering some of the things that they’ve been through." [1]

Key Facts

• Smart recalls isolation after kidnapping: After her rescue, Smart says she did not hear of others who had been kidnapped and felt isolated. She describes a sense of shame around sexual violence, even though she knew it was not her fault. Over time, more survivors shared their stories, and she decided to use her experience to help others. The Netflix documentary release provided a platform for her advocacy. [1]
• Sharing stories connects statistics to faces: Smart emphasizes that storytelling is a powerful way to learn, because numbers can be shocking until people see real victims. She says the Netflix project broadens the emotional impact by linking statistics to individual experiences. This philosophy underpins her ongoing advocacy for survivors of abduction, abuse and sexual violence. [1]
• Two parallel narratives shape her healing: Smart notes that her story and her family’s perspective were both unfolding at once, each with its own angle to tell. As a parent now, she reflects on the contrast between her experience and her family’s, gaining a newer perspective about what they endured. [1]
• Online safety and parenting drive her advocacy: She highlights heightened awareness of online dangers from social media, YouTube and online games, and says she restricts certain activities for her children. While her kids push back, they acknowledge the reasoning is to keep them safe. [1]
• Campaign and partnership expand outreach to survivors: Smart describes the We Believe You campaign to educate communities about supporting survivors, and notes a collaboration with Bitch Sticks to give survivors a platform to share their stories publicly. This partnership is part of expanding opportunities for survivors to be heard. [1][2]
• AMBER Alert nationwide and ongoing improvements: She discusses the AMBER Alert program, saying it should be nationwide and could be improved. Smart stresses the importance of timely action in disappearances and the need for better community responses to survivors. [1]

Who Said What

• Elizabeth Smart, Survivor and advocate: "I am very happy with it. Absolutely — when I first got home, I didn’t hear of anyone else who’d been kidnapped, didn’t know of anyone else who’d been held captive. I didn’t feel like rape, sexual violence and abuse were common conversation. So, I ended up feeling very isolated, very alone." [1]
• Elizabeth Smart, Survivor and advocate: "I feel like two stories were being told in parallel to each other." [1]
• Elizabeth Smart, Survivor and advocate: "I think it just makes me so much more aware of what really is out there, the dangers that social media, YouTube, a lot of these online games pose." [1]
• Elizabeth Smart, Survivor and advocate: "Time absolutely is of the essence. If a child disappears, the police will tell you the first 24 to 48 hours are the most crucial, and if a child has gone past that, it’s not uncommon for them to be dead." [1]
• Elizabeth Smart, Survivor and advocate: "First of all, it’s OK to be sad. It’s OK to be angry. Those aren’t bad emotions." [1]
• Elizabeth Smart, Survivor and advocate: "I would gladly go through another kidnapping to protect my children from ever experiencing that." [1]

Key Facts

• Netflix doc premieres revisiting Elizabeth Smart kidnapping: The documentary Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart premieres January 21 and revisits the case through interviews with Smart, family members and others, including never-before-seen material, according to the filmmakers. [3]
• Smart builds advocacy through Elizabeth Smart Foundation: Now 38, Smart has built a life around advocacy, founding the Elizabeth Smart Foundation in 2011 to support victims and prevention. She married in 2012 and has three children. Through the foundation, she has testified before Congress and helped promote laws such as the AMBER Alert and the Adam Walsh Act, and she has developed programs like Smart Defense. [1][4]
• Mary Katherine's memory helped crack the case: Mary Katherine Smart’s memory of the night Elizabeth was taken helped investigators identify the suspect. Elizabeth was found alive months later in a nearby city. Mary Katherine now leads a private life and has pursued education and family milestones, including marriage in 2020; she has also appeared publicly in coverage in 2023. [7][8][1]
• Abduction and captivity timeline outlined: On June 5, 2002, Mitchell abducted Elizabeth from her Salt Lake City home and took her to a mountainside camp where Barzee joined. The abuse continued for nine months before Elizabeth was found alive in March 2003 in Sandy, Utah. [1]
• Mitchell conviction and Barzee release: Mitchell was convicted in December 2010 of kidnapping and related offenses and sentenced to life in prison in 2011. Barzee pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 15 years in 2010 and was released in 2018, a decision that drew public disappointment from Smart. [1][18]
• Ed and Lois Smart remain active in advocacy amid personal changes: Ed Smart has remained a public figure in survivor advocacy and has served as a director at Youth Futures Utah. He publicly said he is gay in 2019, a revelation that followed years of self-acceptance. Ed and Lois divorced in 2019, but Lois continues Amber Alert advocacy and public speaking, and she declined to participate in the Netflix documentary. [16][17][12][13][14][1]

Who Said What

• Elizabeth Smart, Survivor: "I’m not just that girl that was kidnapped. That happened to me, but I’m so much more." [2]
• Elizabeth Smart, Survivor: "As time passed, I began speaking publicly about what happened, I just felt like it needs to serve a purpose. It needs to bring some good in the world." [6]
• Elizabeth Smart, Survivor: "My inner voice has changed from 'you should have done this,' or 'you could have done that,' to 'you’ll make it through this. You could finish this. You’re strong. Keep going. You can survive anything that comes your way.'" [6]
• Elizabeth Smart, Survivor: "my nine months in hell" [1]
• Ed Smart, Elizabeth Smart's father: "Please let her go." [10]
• Mary Katherine Smart, Elizabeth Smart's sister: "I was 9 years old when Elizabeth was taken. I missed not having my sister. She was my best friend." [1]
• Ed Smart, Elizabeth Smart's father: "I tried to suppress that; it’s not me, not who I am. I tried to put that out." [16]

Key Facts

• Near-term gas futures surge over 70%: Near-term US natural gas futures have jumped more than 70% this week, reflecting a surge in price driven by severe winter warnings and sharply rising demand. The move puts near-term contracts on track for the biggest weekly rise since 1990, with Bloomberg data tracking the broader rally and FactSet providing the daily numbers. [1][2]
• One of the most extreme winter storms in years looms: Meteorologists warn the storm could be one of the most extreme in years, pushing heating demand higher across much of the country while also threatening to deplete gas stockpiles as temperatures plunge. The forecast underscores the risk to both consumption and gas flow through pipelines. [1][3]
• Three-fold challenge hits gas markets: Analysts describe a three-fold challenge: demand surges from the cold, potential slowdowns in gas flow through pipelines, and production declines at key natural gas hubs across Texas, Louisiana and Appalachia, all pressuring supply and prices. [1]
• Storage could see a record-like draw: Robert Yawger of Mizuho Securities says the amount of gas in storage could plunge by the second greatest amount on record, given the expected demand surge. The prospect of such a draw highlights how quickly storage could tighten under extreme cold. [1]
• LNG exports surge, tightening domestic supply: Export of liquefied natural gas is expected to rise substantially, drawing more supply overseas and leaving less for US homes and power plants, contributing to domestic price pressures. [1]
• Near-term spike remains most pronounced; policy spin noted: Analysts say the spike is concentrated in near-term contracts, while longer-dated futures are less affected. The White House counters that energy policy is delivering cost relief and notes record domestic natural gas production, framing the event in political terms. [1]

Who Said What

• Darrell Fletcher, Managing director of commodities at Bannockburn Capital Markets: "The next week will be very challenging." Fletcher said. This signals expectations of sustained volatility in near-term gas prices. [1]
• Robert Yawger, Commodity specialist at Mizuho Securities: "Extremely cold temperatures are going to cause a monster decline in natural gas storage." This underscores concerns that demand could exhaust storage faster than supply can replenish it. [1]
• Robert Yawger, Commodity specialist at Mizuho Securities: "It’s a wild animal and trading like a maniac right now." This expresses the heightened volatility traders feel as prices move. [1]
• Patrick Rau, Senior vice president of research and analysis at Natural Gas Analysis: "If we see several days of production declines – combined with demand increases – that could really do a number on storage." This highlights how supply and demand dynamics can rapidly tighten stocks. [1]
• Ole Hansen, Head of commodity strategy at Saxo: "Freeze-offs" occur when water solidifies inside pipelines and infrastructure, sidelining the flow of gas and shrinking output. These events tend to emerge precisely when demand peaks, amplifying price moves. [1]
• Taylor Rogers, White House spokesperson: "Instead of fixating on normal market fluctuations that are being driven by a looming winter storm, the media should focus on how American natural gas output is projected to hit a record high this year." This frames the surge within an administration narrative about production gains. [1]
• Ben Dietderich, Spokesperson for the US Department of Energy: "Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, American natural gas production is at an all-time high and surpasses all other nations. The Trump administration continues to do everything possible to reverse the impacts of the Biden administration’s energy subtraction policies which contributed to higher energy prices across the board." This reflects political messaging on energy policy and price trends. [1]

Key Facts

• Seven tech giants respond to Senate probe: Seven large companies, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Coreweave, Equinix and Digital Realty, sent letters in response to questions from three Senate Democrats about how data centers affect electricity prices. The letters address how many data centers they run, their power needs, and how they would procure and pay for power. [1]
• Google pledges to cover all data-center electricity: Google said in its letter it would pay for all electricity used by its data centers and adjust its energy use when grid demand is highest, to shield ratepayers from price spikes. [1]
• Meta commits to full energy-cost coverage: Meta said it would cover the full costs for energy used by its data centers and fund new and upgraded local infrastructure to add capacity to the grid, according to its statement to CNN. [1]
• Some companies seek higher-ratepayer class: Several firms indicated support for being placed into a higher-ratepayer class that would be charged more for power than residents or smaller commercial customers, part of their broader push to redefine who pays for grid costs. [1]
• Promises lack specifics; experts urge transparency: Experts warn the letters offer few specifics on implementation, with concerns about the lack of transparency and NDAs that obscure actual payments. Senators call for clearer accounting and public data on who pays for what. [1]
• PJM auction plan and White House attention: Northeastern governors and the Trump administration asked PJM to hold an emergency power auction to lock big-tech power contracts for 15 years, signaling urgency. President Trump also teased a Microsoft plan to cover electricity costs. [7][8]

Who Said What

• Elizabeth Warren, Senator: "These commitments do not explain how Big Tech companies – not American consumers – will bear the full cost of data centers." [1]
• Ari Peskoe, Director of Harvard Law School electricity law initiative: The devil is really in the details here, and consumers don’t have much protection with the current system. [1]
• Ryan Daniels, Meta spokesperson: "We’ve been committed to these principles for many years and welcome recent pushes from other companies." [1]
• Google, Representative: "Google said it would pay for all of the electricity it would use to power its data centers and would make changes to how it manages and pays for energy use when the grid’s power usage is at its highest, a time period when data center power use can drive up prices for other customers." [1]
• Amazon, Representative: "pay the full cost of the electricity we use and make substantial investments in new generation and transmission infrastructure that benefit all ratepayers." [1]

Key Facts

• Spending up 0.5% in November: A shutdown-delayed Commerce Department report shows November spending rose 0.5% from October, topping economists' expectations of 0.4%. Nearly half of the increase comes from health care and energy. After adjusting for inflation, spending rose 0.3% for the month. [1]
• Income rise modest; after-tax income up 0.1%: November income rose 0.3% before taxes, but only 0.1% after taxes. The savings rate fell to 3.5%, the lowest since October 2022, highlighting slower discretionary saving even as spending remains elevated. [1]
• Inflation data show 0.2% monthly rise and 2.8% annually: The PCE price index increased 0.2% on a monthly basis, lifting the annual rate to 2.8%. That 2.8% annual figure is described as unchanged from September. The data underscore persistent inflation pressures that Fed policymakers monitor closely. [2]
• Economists warn spending may be unsustainable: Oliver Allen of Pantheon Macroeconomics cautioned that the pace of spending relies on weak income growth, calling the growth support flimsy. The comment underscores concern that the strength may fade as households' income remains constrained. [1]
• Data release delayed; October and November data merged: The extensive delay from the government shutdown contributed to incomplete data, leading statisticians to combine the October and November Personal Income and Outlays releases into one release. [1][3]

Who Said What

• Oliver Allen, senior US economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics: "I think the thing that's more striking in this report is just how flimsy the support for that growth is. Income growth now is looking really, really weak," he said. This remark signals caution that the spending surge may not be durable. [1]

Key Facts

• Colorectal cancer now tops under-50 deaths: A JAMA analysis of US mortality data through 2023 shows colorectal cancer has become the leading cause of cancer deaths among people under 50. The study notes that deaths from colon and rectal cancers in this age group rose about 1.1% annually since 2005, even as deaths from other major cancers declined. It identifies colorectal cancer as the top cause in 2023 for this age group. [2]
• Other cancers fall; colorectal rises: From 2014 to 2023, average annual declines were 0.3% for brain cancer, 1.4% for breast cancer, 2.3% for leukemia and 5.7% for lung cancer, but colorectal cancer mortality did not follow that trend, contributing to a rising burden among younger adults. [2]
• Top five under-50 cancer deaths include colorectal: Since 1990, more than 1.2 million Americans under 50 died of cancer, with an overall cancer death rate in this group falling about 44%. By 2023, colorectal cancer ranked first among under-50 cancer deaths, ahead of breast, brain, lung and leukemia. [2]
• Screening gaps and early detection urged: Experts say the rise underscores the need for earlier screening and quicker diagnosis for symptomatic younger adults. The study notes that regular screening at age 45 is recommended for average risk, but only about 37% of adults aged 45 to 49 are up to date on screening. [2][4]
• Public health emphasis on faster diagnosis: MD Anderson’s Y. Nancy You calls attention to a large gap in promptly diagnosing people who already have symptoms, arguing that screening alone is not enough. The emphasis is on expediting evaluation when symptoms appear to improve outcomes. [5]
• Human story highlights the stakes: Jenna Scott, diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer at 31 after pregnancy, describes a shock that changed her life and notes the ongoing need for ongoing therapy. Her experience illustrates the personal impact behind the statistics. [1]

Who Said What

• Dr. Ahmedin Jemal, senior vice president of surveillance, prevention and health services research at the American Cancer Society; senior author of the JAMA study: "We don’t know why it is increasing," [2]
• Dr. Ahmedin Jemal, same as above: "We weren’t expecting colorectal cancer to rise to this level so quickly, but now it is clear that this can no longer be called an old person’s disease." [2]
• Jenna Scott, colorectal cancer survivor and advocate with Colorectal Cancer Alliance: "We did a colonoscopy and when I woke up, there was my husband, my doctor and four nurses in the room. The GI doctor said he didn’t need to send anything off to pathology to know that I had cancer." [1]
• Jenna Scott, same as above: "I’ve always been super fit and healthy. I’ve been an athlete all my life. I didn’t even grow up eating red meat. In an instant, my life changed completely and unexpectedly." [1]
• Jenna Scott, same as above: "continue chemotherapy and targeted therapy indefinitely," because each time she stopped treatment before, the cancer came back and spread further to other organs in her body. [1]
• Dr. Y. Nancy You, professor at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; director of its Young-onset Colorectal Cancer Program: "There is a tremendous gap – and opportunity – in expeditiously diagnosing and treating people who are already symptomatic." [5]
• Dr. Andrea Cercek, gastrointestinal medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: "In this younger group, when we do see later stage of diagnosis, that is highly associated with lower survival, regardless of their age." [1]
• Christine Molmenti, cancer epidemiologist at Northwell Health: "I’ve met a lot of patients under 50 with this disease, and I think it is very heartbreaking." [7]
• Christine Molmenti, same as above: "Anecdotally, what we see a lot of times is that these patients are healthy. They’re fit. Sometimes they’re athletes. There were a couple of patients who had not survived the disease, but their parents told us that they ran a marathon four months before their stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis." [7]

Key Facts

• Lack of mobility drives workout strain: When a training plan emphasizes strength or intensity without mobility work, joints may not move through a full, comfortable range. The body compensates with extra effort from surrounding muscles, creating strain rather than efficient motion. Uneven stress on muscles and joints can set the stage for injury and misalignment over time. If one side consistently feels harder than the other, that usually signals inhibited mobility rather than a lack of strength. [1]
• Misalignment undermines movement and stability: Muscular compensations shift alignment, reducing core stability and increasing fatigue. Breathing patterns and pelvic tilt can weaken the stabilizing chain and make exercises feel effortful. As alignment deteriorates, surrounding muscles work harder to create stability, which reduces power and resilience during workouts. [1]
• Protective tension tightens guarding muscles: The nervous system responds to perceived instability by tightening muscles to guard joints, especially in the neck, hips and lower back. This guarding becomes a barrier to smooth movement, increasing effort and fatigue. If the tension becomes chronic, it can further restrict range of motion and performance. [1]
• Shallow breathing drains energy during workouts: Chest-dominant breathing or breath-holding raises the energy cost of movement and causes the torso to work harder for stabilization. This leads to more compensations and misalignment, making familiar exercises feel harder. Adopting steadier nasal breathing and controlled exhales can help stabilize effort. [1]
• Insufficient recovery blocks adaptation and risks overtraining: Persistent stiffness, lingering soreness and the sense that effort never eases signal under-recovery. Without adequate downregulation, muscles and connective tissues do not fully adapt between sessions. If unaddressed, this can progress toward overtraining syndrome, marked by fatigue and performance decline. [1]
• Integrated fixes combine mobility, alignment, breathing and recovery: A holistic approach blends mobility work to create usable ranges of motion, warm-up alignment resets, slow, controlled core stabilization, and coordinated breathing with deliberate recovery. The guidance references mobility training, ranges of motion, posture, protective tension, core stability exercises such as bird dogs and dead bugs, as well as breathing techniques and recovery practices like light mobility work, sleep and stress management. Practically, this means addressing mobility first, then stabilizing the core, regulating breathing, and prioritizing recovery to reduce effort in workouts. [3][4][5][6][8][9][10][11][14][15]

Key Facts

• Midmonth Dry January still worth trying: The article opens by noting we are midway through the month and that starting Dry January late can still prompt reflection on drinking habits and health. It emphasizes that the calendar month is not the only measure of the challenge’s value, and that benefits can appear even with a partial month. The narrative connects this idea to the broader discussion of how alcohol fits into daily routines and health goals. [1]
• Dry January is a public health campaign: Dr. Leana Wen describes Dry January as a public health campaign that encourages abstaining from alcohol for a month. The goal is to create space for people to reflect on their drinking after the holidays, not to demand perfection. This framing helps readers understand the purpose beyond simply sticking to a calendar. [3]
• Health benefits can begin within days to weeks: Wen notes that health benefits can begin within days to weeks of reducing or stopping alcohol. Even a partial month without drinking can reveal impacts on sleep, mood, energy levels and daily routines. This supports the idea that starting now has meaningful potential. [1]
• Long-term health risks include high blood pressure and cancer: The article outlines that long-term, regular heavy drinking is linked to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease and multiple cancers. The risk rises with greater and more frequent alcohol use, underscoring why reducing intake can matter for overall health. [5][6]
• Guidelines emphasize reducing intake; fixed counts evolve: Current guidance focuses on drinking patterns and overall reduction rather than strict counts. The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines recommended up to one drink daily for women and up to two for men, while newer federal guidelines no longer quantify a fixed number of drinks but still advocate consuming less for better health. [7][8]
• Starting tips include goals, support, and alternatives: Experts advise setting a realistic goal, letting friends and family know to reduce social pressure, and planning nonalcoholic beverage options. Replacing alcohol with activities like coffee, walks or workouts can help ease the transition and keep it sustainable. [1][11]

Who Said What

• Dr. Leana Wen, CNN wellness expert; emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University: "Dry January is a public health campaign that encourages people to abstain from alcohol for one month." [3]
• Dr. Leana Wen, CNN wellness expert; emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University: "It is certainly still worth trying, even if you are starting later in the month or any time at all. Health benefits can begin within days to weeks of reducing or stopping alcohol." [1]
• Dr. Leana Wen, CNN wellness expert; emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University: "From a health perspective, current guidance focuses on both average intake and drinking patterns. Adults who choose to drink should limit alcohol to no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men, according to 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans." [7]
• Dr. Leana Wen, CNN wellness expert; emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University: "If alcohol has been a way to unwind, replacing it with exercise, reading or a new hobby can make the transition smoother." [1]
• Dr. Leana Wen, CNN wellness expert; emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University: "Alcohol use disorder is a medical condition characterized by loss of control over drinking and continued use despite negative consequences. It is the most common substance use disorder in the United States." [12][13]
• Dr. Leana Wen, CNN wellness expert; emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University: "There are effective, evidence-based treatments available. They include psychotherapy, medications that reduce cravings and peer support programs." [14]
• Dr. Leana Wen, CNN wellness expert; emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University: "This is a signal that it may be time to seek help. People should start by talking with their primary care clinician or a mental health professional." [12]

Key Facts

• Commuter train collides with crane near Cartagena: Emergency services reported four people with minor injuries after the collision near Cartagena in Murcia. A spokesman said the train has not overturned or derailed. First calls about the crash came in just after noon. [1]
• Sunday high-speed crash in Andalusia kills at least 43: Spain is still reeling from Sunday's high-speed collision in Andalusia that killed at least 43 people, underscoring a week of rail disasters. [2]
• Barcelona derailment kills driver, injures four: Two days after the Sunday crash, a commuter train derailed near Barcelona after a containment wall fell on the track in heavy rain; the driver died and four passengers were seriously injured. [3]
• Rail drivers union calls nationwide strike over safety: Following the derailment, the main train drivers’ union called a nationwide strike over safety standards. [4]
• Adif cites crane intrusion as disruption source: Adif said the Murcia line disruption stemmed from an intrusion into the infrastructure gauge by a crane not belonging to the railway operation; services later resumed. [1]

Who Said What

• Spokesperson for Murcia’s emergency services, emergency services spokesperson: "The train hasn’t been overturned or derailed." [1]
• Adif, Spanish rail operator: "intrusion into the infrastructure gauge by a crane not belonging to the railway operation" [1]

Key Facts

• Han Duck-soo jailed 23 years for rebellion: The Seoul Central District Court found ex-prime minister Han Duck-soo responsible for participating in what it described as a rebellion tied to President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law decree. It ruled he helped give procedural legitimacy to the decree by passing it through a Cabinet Council meeting and convicted him of falsifying the proclamation, destroying it and lying under oath. Han, age 76, could appeal the ruling, and the sentence marks a high-profile conviction among Yoon's aides on rebellion charges. [1]
• Martial law decree branded as rebellion: The court characterized the dispatch of troops and police to the National Assembly and election offices as a riot or self-coup aimed at undermining constitutional order and disrupting stability. The ruling centers on the legality and consequences of Yoon's emergency powers during the crisis. [1]
• Ruling signals further cases against Yoon associates: The verdict is expected to set the stage for upcoming rulings involving Yoon Suk Yeol and other associates who face rebellion charges in connection with the martial law imposition. The decision increases pressure on the former president and his inner circle. [1]
• Death penalty sought in rebellion case against Yoon: Independent counsel had been seeking the death penalty for Yoon in relation to the rebellion charges. The court's attention on the Han case comes amid broader focus on the legal actions against Yoon and his aides. [4]
• Han acted as acting president during crisis and pursued presidency later: Han Duck-soo served as acting president after Yoon's impeachment and later faced his own impeachment before resigning to run in a snap election. He withdrew from the race after failing to secure a party nomination. [1]
• Yoon Suk Yeol faces eight trials, including rebellion: Yoon remains jailed and faces eight criminal trials, including his rebellion case over the martial law decree. He recently received a five-year term for defying detention attempts, fabricating the martial law proclamation and denying Cabinet members their rights to deliberate on the decree. [1]

Who Said What

• Lee Jin-gwan, judge: Because of the defendant’s action, the Republic of Korea could have returned to a dark past when the basic rights of the people and the liberal democratic order were trampled upon, becoming trapped in the quagmire of dictatorships for an extended period. [1]
• Yoon Suk Yeol, former president: In his martial law declaration, Yoon called the opposition-controlled assembly "a den of criminals" and vowed to eliminate "shameless North Korea followers and anti-state forces". [1]
• Yoon Suk Yeol, former president: Speaking at a court session last week, Yoon denounced the investigations as "frenzied," arguing they involved "manipulation" and "distortion". [1]