Trump suggests Ukraine may cede territory to Russia – In a Politico interview, the former president urged President Zelenskyy to accept a deal that would hand parts of Ukraine to Moscow, arguing that Russia held the upper hand and that Ukraine must “play ball” [2].
Trump calls Europe “weak” and “decaying” – He described European immigration policies as a disaster, repeating far‑right tropes that echo the “great replacement” conspiracy theory, and said Europe was destroying itself through mass migration [1][3].
U.S. national security strategy cites “civilisational erasure” – The strategy released last week claims that Europe faces “civilisational erasure” because of migration, a language that has been linked to far‑right rhetoric [5][6].
Trump hints at possible U.S. military action in Venezuela – He declined to confirm or deny plans to send troops to Venezuela to undermine President Nicolás Maduro, stating he does not want to discuss military strategy [4].
Trump criticizes European leaders, including Sadiq Khan and Viktor Orbán – He called London’s mayor “horrible” and “vicious,” and said he has endorsed Viktor Orbán, a figure disliked by many Europeans [1].
Trump says Europe’s future as a U.S. ally depends on immigration – He warned that continued immigration would weaken European countries and potentially alter their ideological stance, affecting their viability as allies [1].
Who Said What
Donald Trump – “I don’t want to rule in or out… I don’t talk about it,” referring to military strategy in Venezuela [1].
António Costa – “What we cannot accept is the threat to interfere in European politics,” criticizing U.S. support for nationalist parties in Europe [1].
Donald Trump – “If it keeps going the way it’s going, Europe will not be… many of those countries will not be viable countries any longer,” warning of Europe’s decline due to immigration policies [1].
Some Context
Great Replacement – A conspiracy theory claiming that white populations are being systematically replaced by non‑white immigrants; it has been used by far‑right groups to justify anti‑immigration rhetoric [3].
Civilisational erasure – The idea that a culture or civilization is being destroyed or erased, often used to describe the perceived loss of European identity amid migration; it appears in the U.S. national security strategy [6].
European Council – The EU body that brings together the heads of state or government of member countries to set broad policy directions; António Costa is the president of this council [1].
Viktor Orbán – Prime Minister of Hungary, known for his nationalist and anti‑immigration policies; Trump said he has endorsed Orbán, a stance that many Europeans criticize [1].
Sadiq Khan – The first Muslim mayor of London, whose leadership Trump criticized as incompetent and “horrible”; his tenure has been a focal point in discussions about immigration and multiculturalism in the UK [1].
DeSantis designates CAIR as FTO On Monday, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an executive order declaring the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) a foreign terrorist organization and naming the Muslim Brotherhood, effective immediately, directing state agencies to take lawful measures to prevent unlawful activities by these groups, including denying privileges or resources to anyone providing material support. [1]
Order targets MB and cites FTO status gap The order also targets the Muslim Brotherhood, notes CAIR and MB are not on the federal list of designated FTOs, and links CAIR to broader concerns about extremism despite CAIR’s denial of Hamas or MB ties. [1]
CAIR condemns the move as a stunt CAIR’s Florida and national chapters called the order a “stunt” and a “defamatory and unconstitutional order baselessly smearing” them, and vowed to sue Florida following similar actions in Texas. [1]
DeSantis signals legislative follow-up In a separate statement, DeSantis said lawmakers are crafting legislation to stop the “creep of sharia law” and to codify protections against CAIR and the MB in Florida law. [1]
Texas parallel cited in coverage The Florida action mirrors a November order by Texas Governor Greg Abbott directing law enforcement to investigate CAIR-related activities and to prohibit CAIR/MB from acquiring property in Texas. [1]
CAIR emphasizes long-standing advocacy CAIR says it has spent decades advocating for civil rights, free speech, and justice for all, and argues the Florida action diverts taxpayer dollars and misrepresents its work. [1]
Who Said What
Ron DeSantis, Florida Governor: “Florida agencies are hereby directed to undertake all lawful measures to prevent unlawful activities by these organizations, including denying privileges or resources to anyone providing material support.” [1]
Ron DeSantis, Florida Governor: “are crafting legislation to stop the creep of sharia law, and I hope that they codify these protections for Floridians against Cair and the Muslim Brotherhood in their legislation.” [1]
CAIR, Florida and national chapters: “the order is a stunt” and a “defamatory and unconstitutional order baselessly smearing them.” [1]
Some Context
CAIR (Council on American-Islamic Relations): A U.S. civil rights and liberties group that advocates for Muslim communities and civil rights, including free speech and religious freedom. [1]
Muslim Brotherhood: A long-running transnational Islamist organization founded in 1928 in Egypt; cited in discussions of extremism and political influence in several countries. [1]
Hamas: A Palestinian militant group that has governed Gaza; cited in broader claims about militant networks connected to regional conflicts. [1]
Sharia law: Islamic jurisprudence and legal framework used by some communities; referenced in U.S. policy debates about its presence in domestic law. [1]
Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO): A U.S. federal designation for groups considered to engage in terrorist activity; CAIR and MB are not listed as FTOs by the federal government. [1]
Governor Abbott announces TPUSA high‑school chapters – On Dec 8, 2025, Abbott, Lt. Gov. Patrick, and TPUSA senior director Josh Thifault announced plans to establish TPUSA and affiliated Club America chapters in Texas high schools, citing an urgency and need for conservative presence [4].
Existing presence in over 500 schools – Abbott and Patrick said Texas already hosts more than 500 high‑school Club America chapters, and TPUSA aims to expand to 20,000 chapters nationwide, reflecting a large existing network [4][5].
Political support and funding – Lt. Gov. Patrick committed $1 million in campaign funds to support the initiative, and the Texas Education Commissioner met privately with TPUSA to discuss expansion plans, indicating state‑level backing [8][9].
Opposition and disciplinary threat – Abbott warned that schools blocking TPUSA chapters would be reported to the Texas Education Agency and face disciplinary action, effectively preventing opposition from schools [4].
Surge in inquiries after Kirk’s death – TPUSA reported 54,000 inquiries about new chapters within days of Charlie Kirk’s death on Sept 10, 2025, indicating heightened interest among students and parents [5].
Controversy over TPUSA’s stance – TPUSA has faced criticism for alleged racist, homophobic, and sexist rhetoric, and Texas teachers have been accused of mocking Kirk’s murder, leading to 350 complaints filed in September 2025 [10].
Who Said What
Greg Abbott – Stated that any school preventing a Club America program should be reported to the Texas Education Agency, emphasizing enforcement of the initiative [4].
Dan Patrick – Announced a $1 million commitment of campaign funds to support TPUSA’s expansion into Texas high schools [9].
Josh Thifault – Said TPUSA’s goal is to expand the number of chapters to 20,000 across the nation, reflecting national ambitions [5].
Zeph Capo – Expressed that TPUSA may have a place in colleges but not in high schools, citing concerns about student impressionability [10].
Greg Abbott – Referred to the initiative as “about values” and indicated that he would not endorse progressive, left‑leaning educational centers [4].
Some Context
Turning Point USA (TPUSA) – A conservative youth organization founded by Charlie Kirk that promotes free‑speech and conservative values on college and high‑school campuses.
Club America – A TPUSA‑affiliated program targeting high‑school students, designed to provide a conservative alternative to existing student clubs.
Senate Bill 12 – A Texas law enacted in 2025 that bans student clubs focused on LGBTQ+ issues, reflecting the state’s stance on campus political activity.
Texas Education Agency (TEA) – The state agency responsible for overseeing public schools in Texas, including enforcing compliance with state policies.
Texas Education Commissioner – The chief executive of the TEA, currently Mike Morath, who oversees policy implementation and school administration in Texas.
Under-16 ban takes effect: Australia enacts a world-first ban restricting social media access for users under 16, with enforcement beginning around Dec 9, 2025; platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, YouTube, Snapchat, Reddit, Kick, Twitch and TikTok are expected to remove under-16 accounts and block new registrations from Wednesday; fines for non-compliance can reach up to $49.5 million; the eSafety commissioner is coordinating notices and progress reporting. [1]
Platforms to remove under-16 accounts: Major platforms are moving to deactivate under-16 accounts and prevent new sign-ups in Australia; by Dec 9, 2025 most had confirmed compliance, except X which had not yet disclosed its policy; Bluesky also announced an under-16 ban; the regulator has discussions with X about compliance. [1]
Regulator to issue notices: The eSafety commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, announced from Thursday she would issue notices to platforms covered by the ban to report on progress, challenges, and effectiveness; non-compliance could prompt court action to seek fines; an independent academic advisory group will evaluate the ban’s short-, medium-, and long-term impacts. [1]
Age checks and verification issues: In the lead-up to enforcement, children undertook age assurance checks via services like k-ID; k-ID reported hundreds of thousands of checks in recent weeks; some under-16s reportedly passed facial age tests, raising concerns about verification accuracy. [1]
Parental and political responses: Some parents described distress over their child being identified as under-16 and blocked; others viewed the policy as a needed framework to limit use; Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the policy as a national standard, noting it won’t be perfect immediately. [1]
Global attention and additional notices: The ban drew international attention with other nations considering similar restrictions; the EU signaled adopting age restrictions and the UK said it was closely monitoring Australia’s approach; the government will publish compliance information and assess unintended consequences like VPN circumvention and shifts to other platforms, while the regulator also contacted 15 additional companies to self-assess. [1]
Who Said What
Julie Inman Grant, eSafety commissioner: “From Thursday, I would be sending notices to the platforms covered by the ban to find out how the implementation was progressing.” [1]
Anthony Albanese, Australian Prime Minister: “From the beginning, we’ve acknowledged this process won’t be 100% perfect. But the message this law sends will be 100% clear … Australia sets the legal drinking age at 18 because our society recognises the benefits to the individual and the community of such an approach.” [1]
Snapchat spokesperson: “Under-16s were disappointed by the ban but would strongly encourage any teens using Snapchat not to publicly share their personal contact information.” [1]
Parent (Guardian interview): “My 15-year-old daughter was very distressed because all her 14 to 15-year-old friends have been age verified as 18 by Snapchat.” [1]
Parent (Guardian interview): “I’ve shown her how VPNs work and other methods on bypassing age restrictions.” [1]
Kieran Donovan, k-ID founder: “The k-ID service has conducted hundreds of thousands of age checks in the past few weeks.” [1]
Some Context
eSafety commissioner: Australia’s national regulator responsible for online-safety enforcement and coordinating safety measures across platforms. [1]
k-ID: An age-assurance service used by platforms (including Snapchat) to verify a user’s age before granting access. [1]
Bluesky: A newer social platform that announced an under-16 ban in response to the Australian policy; notable for its smaller Australian user base (about 50,000). [1]
Age assurance: Technology and processes used to verify a user’s age so access to age-restricted services can be controlled. [1]
VPN (virtual private network): A tool that can route a user’s internet traffic through a private server, sometimes used to bypass geographic or policy-based restrictions. [1]
World-first under-16 ban: Australia will bar users under 16 from holding social media accounts on major platforms, with deactivation and age-verification requirements and penalties up to $49.5m for noncompliance [1].
Effective from 10 December 2025: The ban goes into effect on 10 December 2025; platforms must prevent under-16s from creating or maintaining accounts, after which they must verify ages for enforcement [1].
Platforms affected and exemptions: The rule targets platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat and TikTok, but does not apply to direct messaging services such as WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger [1].
Enforcement and penalties: The eSafety Commissioner will oversee enforcement and determine if platforms have taken reasonable steps to block under-16 accounts; fines can reach up to $49.5m for noncompliance [1].
Teen reactions to the ban: Guardian reporting indicates mixed feelings among teens, with some supportive in principle and others wary of government reach or social effects [1].
International follow-on and AI concerns: Countries including Malaysia (2026 aim), Denmark and Norway are considering similar measures; EU Parliament supported a ban under 15, and there are ongoing debates about regulating AI tools that teach or enable bypassing safeguards [1].
Who Said What
Emma Williamson, 15, Guardian Australia: “I think everyone will miss the socialising part. But it’s also a relief to not have to do that on a platform designed to lure you in and waste your time, no one is going to miss scrolling.” [1]
Ezra Sholl, 15, Guardian Australia: “I’m 15 years old and have a disability. Social media has been a lifeline – why is the government kicking me off?” [1]
Some Context
eSafety Commissioner: Australia’s online safety regulator responsible for enforcing protections on social platforms and ensuring compliance with age-related restrictions [1].
Age verification: The process platforms must implement to confirm a user’s age and enforce the 16-year threshold [1].
Under-16 ban scope: Applies to a broad category of social platforms but excludes some messaging apps that are not considered social media in the same way [1].
AI and safeguards: Authorities are discussing restricting or regulating AI chatbots to prevent circumvention of safety rules for teens [1].
Hegseth may testify on Venezuelan strike – Trump said in a Politico interview that Pete Hegseth can testify before Congress about the 2 September strike on an alleged Venezuelan drug ferrying boat, stating “I don’t care. I would say do it if you want, Pete.” [1]
Trump viewed strike footage – Trump confirmed he had seen the video of the second strike and described it as “they were trying to turn back over the boat,” but said he did not intervene in the decision to strike. [1]
Claimed 25,000 lives saved – Trump asserted that each strike saved 25,000 American lives, a figure that public‑health experts have strongly questioned. [4]
Future land strikes hinted – Trump added that the U.S. would “hit ’em on land very soon, too,” indicating potential future military actions against the same targets. [1]
Video release decision deferred – Trump said he would let Hegseth decide whether to release the full video of the strike, moving away from earlier statements that the government would “certainly release” any footage. [1]
Nvidia chip export approval – Trump approved the sale of Nvidia’s H200 AI chips to China, a move that drew criticism from senior Democratic senators for national‑security concerns. [13]
Who Said What
Donald Trump – “He can if he wants… I don’t care. I would say do it if you want, Pete.” He added, “Uh, well, it looked like they were trying to turn back over the boat, but I don’t get involved in that.” Trump also said, “Each strike saved the lives of 25,000 Americans,” and that the U.S. would “hit ’em on land very soon, too.” He further noted that he would let Hegseth decide on releasing the full video and that he had approved Nvidia’s H200 chip export to China.
Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Chris Coons – They criticized the Nvidia export as “a colossal economic and national‑security failure,” arguing that the H200 chips are far more capable than anything China can produce.
Some Context
Pete Hegseth – The U.S. Secretary of Defense who oversaw the 2 September strike on a Venezuelan drug ferrying boat.
Nvidia H200 AI chips – Advanced artificial‑intelligence processors that the U.S. government allowed to be sold to Chinese customers, raising concerns about technology transfer.
Gang of Eight – A bipartisan group of congressional leaders who are traditionally briefed on major national‑security actions.
Law of War Manual – The Department of Defense’s guide that prohibits attacks on incapacitated or shipwrecked combatants, relevant to the legality of the Venezuelan strikes.
Tariffs – Import duties imposed by the U.S. that Trump has defended as a tool for national security and economic strength.
Hines says Kennedy won’t run in 2028 On Monday, NewsNation’s Elizabeth Vargas asked Hines if her husband would run; she replied he’s not going to run, though she noted he previously suggested he might pursue politics. [1]
Kennedy’s shifting political stance Hines said Kennedy at one point didn’t think he’d go into politics, but later told her he wants to run, indicating a change in his political plans. [1]
Hines is married to the health secretary Hines has been married to Xavier Becerra, the U.S. health secretary, since 2014, a detail referenced in coverage surrounding her comments. [1]
Memoir American Canto sparked renewed coverage The renewed media attention centers on Olivia Nuzzi’s memoir American Canto, released Dec 2, detailing an emotional affair Kennedy had on the campaign trail. [1]
Kennedy’s vaccine stance and Trump role noted The piece notes Kennedy spent years advocating against vaccines and was later picked by Trump to serve as a top health official in his second administration. [1]
CDC hepatitis B vaccine decision reported On Dec 5, the CDC panel voted to limit hepatitis B vaccination for newborns, recommending parental consultation to decide timing and removing the universal newborn vaccine requirement. [1]
Who Said What
Cheryl Hines, actress and RFK Jr’s wife: “Gosh, he’s not going to run for president,” though she subsequently conceded that Kennedy “didn’t think he was going to go into politics – and the next thing you know he’s telling me he wants to run.” [1]
Some Context
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) A prominent environmental and vaccination-safety activist and son of Robert F. Kennedy; he pursued political campaigns and allied with Donald Trump after originally seeking the Democratic nomination. [1]
ACIP (CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices) A federal panel that develops recommendations on vaccine schedules for the United States; its decisions influence national immunization policy. [1]
Hepatitis B vaccine schedule The standard immunization series for hepatitis B has historically been widely recommended for infants; changes to the schedule affect public health outcomes. [1]
Olivia Nuzzi, author of American Canto A political journalist whose memoir, released Dec 2, describes a personal relationship with Kennedy during the campaign trail, influencing public discussion. [1]
Xavier Becerra The U.S. secretary of health and human services, married to Cheryl Hines since 2014, a role referenced in contemporaneous reporting about Hines’s remarks. [1]
Year after Trump's re-election One year after Trump's re-election, the Guardian spoke with activists and opposition leaders from Hungary, El Salvador, and Turkey to learn what their experiences reveal about authoritarianism; they discussed lessons they wish they'd understood sooner; the piece highlights cross-country perspectives and ongoing challenges; the conversations underscore the urgency of civil society engagement. [1]
Hungary: Orbán’s rise and regime label Orbán’s political arc began in 1998, he returned as prime minister in 2010 and has since tightened control by changing voting rules, stacking the judiciary, and restricting universities, NGOs, and the press; in 2022 the European Parliament described Hungary as a hybrid regime of electoral autocracy. [1]
Civil society: focus on daily needs Kapronczay argues opposition should address pocketbook issues to expand support; protests remain important but local, cross-ideological gatherings that solve shared concerns are crucial; she notes that focusing on abstract democracy fails to reach most people. [1]
Turkey: Erdoğan’s power consolidation Temelkuran notes Erdoğan began consolidating power during his first term and accelerated after a second term, leading to a ruthless concentration of power, jailing opponents, crackdown on protests, and centralized authority; she frames democracy resilience as a long-term effort and draws parallels to the United States. [1]
El Salvador: Bukele’s regime and costs Ortiz argues that Bukele’s 2019 election upended decades of two-party rule, allowed emergency powers and a loyalist judiciary, and coincided with the world’s highest incarceration rate; rights groups and journalists have fled, though public approval remains high due to reduced crime, while basic services and living costs have worsened. [1]
Cross-cutting takeaway The activists urge sustained democratic engagement focusing on people’s daily needs and a long-term, energized strategy that blends street action with solid governance to defend democracy. [1]
Who Said What
Ece Temelkuran, Turkish writer: “Americans should look to other countries, especially in the global south for solutions and for what not to do. Drop the arrogance, drop the exceptionalism.” [1]
Kapronczay, civil society advocate (Hungary): “Standing up for democracy, resisting and all this very abstract language will not reach the majority of society.” [1]
Kapronczay, civil society advocate (Hungary): “Autocrats really want to polarize the society, so any kind of initiative that goes against it is really important.” [1]
Ece Temelkuran, Turkish writer: “Autocrats declare themselves as beyond politics. They say: ‘Politics is corrupt. Parties are corrupt. We’re clean.’ They create a movement, not a party.” [1]
Ortiz, Salvadoran opposition figure: “You cannot make authoritarian leaders the center of your narrative, and you have to be passionate about it.” [1]
Ortiz, Salvadoran opposition figure: “The road to overcoming that is not to destroy institutions, but to make them actually work.” [1]
Some Context
Hybrid regime of electoral autocracy A regime that holds elections but undermines democratic checks and balances, concentrates power in the ruling party, and limits independent media and civil society. [1]
Mano dura (hard-on-crime) approach A punitive, centralized policy approach used by Nayib Bukele to tackle crime, including emergency powers and reduced due process. [1]
Nueva Ideas (New Ideas) party Bukele’s political party, formed a couple of years before his 2019 election, and linked to his governance approach and control of institutions. [1]
Judicial stacking The placement of loyalists on the judiciary to shape rulings and extend executive power. [1]
Emergency powers and due process concerns Measures that suspend normal legal procedures to act quickly on security or political goals, often criticized by rights groups. [1]
Eight Branham students form a swastika Eight Branham High School students formed a swastika on Branham High School's football field in San Jose, California. A photo of the act was posted to social media on December 3 with an antisemitic Hitler quote in the caption. A screenshot of the post circulated on Reddit the following Thursday, and Instagram removed the post and the account by Friday morning. [1]
Post posted December 3; antisemitic caption included On December 3, a Branham student posted the image with an antisemitic Hitler quote in the caption, and a screenshot circulated on Reddit last Thursday, drawing over 500 comments. Instagram removed the post and the account by Friday morning. [1]
Anonymous tip line report The school’s principal, Beth Silbergeld, said the social media post was reported to an anonymous tip line on Wednesday evening, and the district will not disclose participant identities or disciplinary actions due to federal privacy laws. [1]
Disciplinary and values statement Silbergeld described the incident as disturbing and unacceptable and said the district is committed to learning from the moment and moving forward with greater unity and purpose. [1]
BAJC reaction and education context Bay Area Jewish Coalition leaders characterized the incident as shocking and heartbreaking and highlighted a lack of Holocaust education and contextual understanding of hate symbols as contributing factors. [1]
District collaboration Campbell Union High School District said it will work with BAJC, the Anti-Defamation League, and the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Bay Area to address and repair harm caused by the incident. [1]
Who Said What
Beth Silbergeld, Branham High School Principal: “While this incident does not reflect the values of the vast majority of our students and families, the harm it caused is real and must be addressed,” Silbergeld said in the statement. “Many in our community were rightly appalled by the image. This incident is troubling and unacceptable. Professionally, we are committed to learning from this moment and moving forward with greater unity and purpose.” [1]
Beth Silbergeld, Branham High School Principal: “Our message to the community is clear: this was a disturbing and unacceptable act of antisemitism. Actions that target, demean, or threaten Jewish students have no place on our campuses. CUHSD [Campbell Union High School District] and Branham stand firmly against all forms of hate, discrimination, and intolerance.” [1]
Tali Klima, BAJC spokesperson: “To have children echoing Hitler’s words is frankly just shocking and heartbreaking, and the entire community has been rocked by this,” Klima said. “This bold and premeditated display has really shaken everyone.” [1]
Maya Bronicki, BAJC education lead: “We have absolute faith that if the district takes actual measures to teach students the right lessons about being inclusive and anti-hate, that Jews are a minority that deserve compassion and understanding and deserve to be equal to everyone else in this education system, then that would be a huge step towards tomorrow’s society,” she said. [1]
Some Context
BAJC — Bay Area Jewish Coalition: a grassroots organization focused on safety and well-being of Jewish residents in the Bay Area.
ADL — Anti-Defamation League: a national civil rights group that combats antisemitism and hate.
JCRC — Jewish Community Relations Council of the Bay Area: an organization that facilitates Jewish community relations and intergroup dialogue.
CUHSD — Campbell Union High School District: the district that operates Branham High School.
Holocaust education and hate-symbol literacy: education about the Holocaust and the historical context of symbols like the swastika; officials note gaps in these areas can affect how students interpret such imagery.
First woman to free‑climb Platinum route – On 3 November 2025, Sasha DiGiulian completed the 39‑pitch Platinum route on El Capitán, becoming the first woman to free‑climb the route. [1]
Three‑week storm ordeal – A prolonged storm brought rain, snow, and 50‑mph winds, forcing the climbers to spend nearly three weeks on the wall and endure harsh conditions. [1]
Preparation over three years – DiGiulian spent the previous three springs and falls rehearsing the most difficult sections of Platinum, often dropping in from the top and using an ascender to practice. [1]
Support team and logistics – The team cached 30 gallons of water, set fixed lines, and established two camps, packing enough food for about two weeks, but the storm extended their stay beyond that estimate. [1]
Partner Elliot Faber’s departure – With three pitches remaining, Faber had to leave due to a family emergency; Ryan Sheridan from the support crew belayed DiGiulian to the summit. [1]
Mental resilience highlighted – DiGiulian emphasized that the mental challenge and resilience gained during the climb were as significant as the physical achievement. [1]
Who Said What
Sasha DiGiulian – The climber described feeling fear during training, the sadness of the storm, and the empowering mental resilience she gained. [1]
Elliot Faber – DiGiulian’s climbing partner who reassured her during the storm and discussed shelter arrangements. [1]
Ryan Sheridan – Support‑crew member who belayed DiGiulian to the summit after Faber left. [1]
Some Context
Platinum route – A 39‑pitch, highly technical climbing route on El Capitán, graded as difficult throughout, first bolted by Rob Miller a decade ago.
El Capitán – A famous granite cliff in Yosemite National Park known for its steep, big‑wall climbs.
Portaledge – A lightweight, suspended shelter that climbers can set up on a wall to sleep; DiGiulian’s was 4 ft × 6 ft and weighed 2 lb.
Ascender – A mechanical device that allows a climber to climb up a rope while keeping it anchored, used by DiGiulian to practice difficult sections.
Fixed lines – Ropes permanently anchored along a route that climbers clip into for protection and to aid ascent and descent.
Atmospheric rivers to bring heavy rain and snow to the Pacific Northwest; rainfall also forecast in Iraq and Iran
Updated Published Cached
Key Facts
Heavy rainfall forecast: A sequence of atmospheric rivers is expected to bring more than 200 mm of rain across western Washington and north-west Oregon by Friday, with Seattle and Portland receiving 100-150 mm; up to 400 mm could fall on the western Cascades, and more than a foot of snow is anticipated above 1,800–2,100 metres, with impacts extending to western British Columbia in Canada. [1][2][3]
Flood watch issued: The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for north-west and central Washington state, indicating likely urban and river flooding, sharp rises in river levels on Cascades-fed rivers, and increased potential for mudslides due to saturated soils. [1][3]
Atmospheric river mechanism: Atmospheric rivers are narrow bands of water vapor that form when warm, moist air from the tropics is drawn toward mid-latitudes and, as it meets mountains, condenses into persistent rain or snow; these systems are linked to about 80% of west coast flood damage and cost roughly $1 billion annually. [1]
Eastern rainfall outlook: Heavy rain is forecast across eastern Iraq and north-west Iran this week, with at least 50 mm per day across the western Zagros mountains and cumulative totals of roughly 50-150 mm by week’s end in major cities such as Baghdad, Erbil, Kermanshah, and Ahvaz. [1][4][5]
Drought relief context in Iran: Iran faces a six-year drought, with Tehran’s reservoirs at their lowest level in six decades, and at least 19 dams at risk of drying out with reservoirs filled to below 5% capacity. [1]
Regional weather scope: The unsettled spell covers the Pacific Northwest and parts of western Canada, with additional rainfall expected in parts of the Zagros region (Iraq and Iran) this week. [1][2][4][5]
Who Said What
No direct quotes were attributed in the article.
Some Context
Atmospheric rivers: Narrow corridors in the atmosphere that transport large amounts of moisture from tropical regions toward mid-latitudes; when they encounter mountainous terrain, they release heavy rain or snow.
Cascades: The Cascade Range runs from southern British Columbia through Washington and Oregon to Northern California; its western slopes receive heavy precipitation due to orographic lifting.
Zagros mountains: A major mountain range in western Iran and eastern Iraq influencing regional rainfall patterns.
Flood watch: An alert issued by weather agencies indicating conditions favorable for flash or river flooding; it prompts readiness and potential evacuations.
Reservoirs and dam capacity: Storage systems for water supply and flood control; very low reservoir levels indicate elevated risk of water shortages and related impacts.
Home loss and timing: The couple’s Altadena home burned in the early hours of Jan 8, 2025, ending 27 years at that address and prompting a holiday season spent starting from scratch in Pasadena [1].
Widespread destruction: The Pacific Palisades fire was Los Angeles’ most destructive in history, destroying 6,800 structures and causing 12 deaths; the Eaton fire near Altadena destroyed more than 9,400 structures and caused 19 fatalities [1].
Disproportionate impact on Black homeowners: Estimates from UCLA’s Bunche Center indicate the Eaton fire disproportionately affected Black households in Altadena with many damaged or destroyed [1].
First rebuilt home completed: In November 2025, the first rebuilt home in the Pacific Palisades was officially completed and cleared for occupancy after safety inspections [1].
** displaced families’ coping**: Families like Melissa Merritt’s evacuated to Pasadena; she recalls neighbors coordinating help with important documents and mementos, and later facing loss of keepsakes like Christmas ornaments, prompting searches for replacements [1].
New holiday plans and travel: Some families are spending the season in temporary homes or abroad, such as Jodie Ludwin’s family returning to England for Christmas, while others plan modest decorations in new living spaces [1].
Who Said What
Michael Holland: Described starting over in a Pasadena apartment and planning a small tree with icicle lights as a fresh holiday ritual after losing decades of memories in the Altadena fire [1].
Jodie Ludwin: Reflected on moving to LA, then losing their home to the fires soon after arrival, and choosing to spend Christmas in the UK with relatives, emphasizing how quickly a dream can be altered by disaster [1].
Melissa Merritt: Recounted the moment neighbors saved important documents and keepsakes during the fire, and discussed how searching for replacement ornaments has helped their family cope; she and her children will travel to England for Christmas [1].
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass: Acknowledged the hardship and marked the first rebuilt home as a hopeful milestone, noting the community’s unimaginable year and the significance of the OCCUPANCY milestone for recovery [1].
Some Context
Pacific Palisades: A coastal neighborhood in Los Angeles that suffered the city’s most destructive wildfire on record in early 2025 [1].
Eaton Fire: A separate blaze that primarily affected Altadena, contributing to substantial losses and a high fatality count; linked to broader regional wildfire impact on Black homeowners in the area [1].
Bunche Center UCLA: A research center that provides analysis on racial disparities in disaster impact, cited for estimates about how the Eaton fire affected Black households [1].
Couple hire a supposed licensed midwife: Ernesta Chirwa and Chifundo Bingala of Cape Town hire Collins for a home birth, believing she is a licensed midwife; on 15 February 2022 she accompanies them to Retreat Day hospital after midnight, then leaves, and an ambulance takes about two hours to transfer them to Mowbray Maternity Hospital where Chirwa’s complications are treated but the outcome for the twins is fatal [1].
FBS ties and radical birth keeper: Collins’s involvement is linked to the Free Birth Society (FBS), a North Carolina-based group led by Emilee Saldaya and Yolande Norris-Clark that promotes freebirth and “birth keeper” roles; since 2020, FBS has run online schools including the Radical Birth Keeper program, generating over $4m in revenue and training more than 850 graduates in 30 countries [1].
Twin pregnancy culminates in stillbirth: Chirwa, in labour with twins, is found to have a footling breech and prolapsed cord; after a two-hour wait for an ambulance, she is transferred to Mowbray, where staff inform that both babies are dead; the father later describes the events and the medical care as inadequate and misrepresented [1].
Medical experts condemn care as flawed: An expert review for civil proceedings described the care as a “shocking case of misconduct and substandard care” with missing prenatal checks and no ultrasound or routine monitoring; clinicians noted the twins should have been anticipated in a timely, medically supervised birth [1].
Legal actions and ongoing investigations: Chirwa and Bingala filed police reports and commenced high-court civil proceedings against Collins in March 2024; Collins later left South Africa for travel and remains involved with FBS, including leadership in online events and festivals [1].
Broader investigation and context: The Guardian’s year-long investigation identified 48 cases of late-term stillbirths, neonatal deaths, or serious harm linked to FBS-related practices, underscoring concerns about unregulated birth practices [1].
Who Said What
Ernesta Chirwa, Cape Town mother: “Please don’t mention to the nurses that we were trying to have a home birth.” [1]
Chifundo Bingala, husband: “I trusted you the first day we met in [my friend’s] shop; when [my friend] stood me in front of you and said: ‘This one is a midwife.’” [1]
Emilee Saldaya, Free Birth Society founder: “To train these ‘authentic midwives’, since 2020, FBS has run online schools that are estimated to have generated in excess of $4m (£3m) in revenues.” She also stated: “To be crystal clear, a radical birth keeper is in practice an authentic midwife.” [1]
Caitlyn Collins, birth keeper graduate (former midwife): “The midwives have no solidarity with one another. It’s like, it’s really sad.” [1]
Dr Linda Murray, obstetrician: Her expert review described the outcome as “a shocking case of misconduct and substandard care.” [1]
Angela Wakeford, midwife reviewer: “Those twins should not have died.” [1]
Some Context
Free Birth Society (FBS): A North Carolina–based organization promoting freebirth and unconventional birth practices, with online courses and a podcast that popularized radical birth keeper ideas; links to a network of practitioners outside traditional licensing regimes. [1]
Radical Birth Keeper School: An FBS online program described as a three-month course costing about $6,000, aimed at training unlicensed birth practitioners to operate as “authentic midwives.” Over 850 women have graduated from 30 countries. [1]
Birth keeper: A term used by some FBS affiliates to describe a practitioner who assists birth without conventional medical oversight, often contending to replace or augment licensed midwifery. [1]
South African Nursing Council (SANC): The regulatory body that refused to recognise US-trained midwives, affecting the legal ability of Collins to practice midwifery in South Africa. [1]
Mowbray Maternity Hospital and Retreat Day hospital: Cape Town medical facilities involved in the case, with Retreat Day hospital receiving Chirwa and later transferring her to Mowbray for specialized care; the case underscores differences between basic and higher-level obstetric care. [1]
GSA disposal timeline In March, the General Services Administration published a list of 443 properties it sought to offload; the number was reduced to 320 a day later, then taken down entirely, later reappearing with 45 properties amid limited interest, with Medford, Oregon’s courthouse noted as undesirable.[1]
Iconic buildings and murals targeted The set includes notable federal sites and New Deal murals, such as the Robert C Weaver Building (HUD) and the Wilbur J Cohen federal building, which houses works by Shahn, Guston, and Fogel; critics note the murals as central to the era’s civic identity.[1]
Weaver building and principles The Weaver Building, designed by Marcel Breuer in 1965, is highlighted for its “heavy lightness” aesthetic and its place in JFK-era federal-architecture guidelines intended to reflect dignity and modern thought.[1]
Lincoln pool and Eisenhower Building plans Plans call for cleaning and repainting the Eisenhower Executive Office Building and upgrades to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool; commentators question the scope and visual impact of these changes, and some critics have described the Eisenhower Building in pejorative terms.[1]
East Wing CFA process and blueprints The East Wing renovations coincided with the firing of six of seven members of the US Commission of Fine Arts; upcoming blueprints are to be submitted to the National Capital Planning Commission, chaired by Will Scharf, Trump’s former lawyer.[1]
Arch proposal and Oval Office maquette A neoclassical arch concept for a 250th-anniversary district was proposed, with a maquette shown to the Oval Office; discussions around its purpose and scale are part of broader capital- district plans.[1]
Who Said What
Ed O’Keefe, CBS News: “Who’s this for?” [about the Oval Office maquette] [1]
Donald J. Trump: “Me.” [in response to who the arch would serve] [1]
Ada Louise Huxtable, New York Times architecture critic: “a handsome, functional structure that adds quality design and genuine 20th-century style to a city badly in need of both” in reference to Breuer’s HUD building; she also said, “We have spent too many decades mistaking the superficial forms for the essential spirit and forfeiting the Capital’s greatness.” [1]
Laura Ingraham, Fox News: wondered whether the Eisenhower Building might look like a “big white blob.” [1]
Some Context
General Services Administration (GSA) — U.S. federal agency that manages government buildings and real estate, including administering asset-disposition programs. [1]
US Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) — federal agency that advises on design and aesthetics for public buildings and spaces; Trump fired six of its seven members during renovations. [1]
National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) — the federal planning body that reviews and approves major public-works and architectural plans in the Washington, D.C. area. [1]
Guiding principles for federal architecture — JFK-era standards intended to reflect the dignity, enterprise, vigor, and stability of the American government and to embody contemporary architectural thought. [1]
Heavy lightness — Marcel Breuer’s described design approach for the Weaver Building, combining mass with light, a hallmark of mid-20th-century brutalist-inspired modernization. [1]
Democrats urged to shift offense: Abdul El-Sayed argues Republicans aim to dismantle ACA subsidies and Medicaid protections, so Democrats should propose bold reforms like eliminating medical debt and expanding Medicare for All, with a focus on real-world impact in Michigan and beyond [1].
Republicans threaten ACA supports: The piece links recent shutdown dynamics to potential elimination of ACA tax credits, which could push millions off insurance rolls and shift costs to others, undermining coverage stability [1].
Medicaid impact in Michigan: The author notes about 2.3 million Michigan residents rely on Medicaid, with Medicaid covering 39% of Michigan children, and rural hospital closures highlighting access challenges [1].
Medical debt relief proposal: He calls for erasing $220 billion in medical debt at a steeply reduced cost and argues debt elimination must be paired with protections to prevent new debt from accruing [1].
Medicare for All details: Medicare for All would provide universal government health insurance without copays, premiums, or deductibles, cradle-to-grave, with private plans allowed as add-ons and with expanded drug-price negotiation [1].
Political strategy note: The author cites Democratic squad dynamics and argues that an offensive healthcare strategy could energize voters and restore trust in Democrats ahead of midterms [1].
Who Said What
Abdul El-Sayed, physician and public health expert: “You don’t need a doctor to tell you America’s healthcare system is broken, but I’ll tell you anyway.” [1] Abdul El-Sayed, physician and public health expert: “Republicans are dead set on destroying the Affordable Care Act.” [1] Abdul El-Sayed, physician and public health expert: “That’s why it’s not enough for Democrats to play defense. We need to go on offense for the kind of healthcare system Americans actually deserve.” [1] Abdul El-Sayed, physician and public health expert: “We can eliminate America’s staggering $220bn in medical debt for pennies on the dollar.” [1] Abdul El-Sayed, physician and public health expert: “Medicare for All means a guaranteed comprehensive government health insurance program without copays, premiums or deductibles that is available to every single American from cradle onwards and does not exclude additional employer or union-sponsored plans as add-ons.” [1] Abdul El-Sayed, physician and public health expert: “Expanding Medicare to cover all Americans would make the program stronger and more sustainable for seniors.” [1] Abdul El-Sayed, physician and public health expert: “Medicare for All could unleash a flurry of entrepreneurship by freeing Americans with great business ideas from dead-end jobs they stay in simply for the health insurance.” [1] Abdul El-Sayed, physician and public health expert: “When eight Democratic senators caved on the shutdown in the face of mounting healthcare costs, it showed that the current iteration of the party isn’t as serious as the problems they claim to be fighting against.” [1] Abdul El-Sayed, physician and public health expert: “That’s what I’m doing here in Michigan.” [1] Abdul El-Sayed, physician and public health expert: “Americans are sick of being screwed over by their own government. This is about building trust that Democrats have the vision and grit to actually deliver for Americans.” [1]
Some Context
Medicare for All: A proposed universal, government-run health insurance program that covers all Americans with no direct costs at point of service, while allowing add-ons from private plans.
Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies: Tax credits intended to reduce monthly insurance premiums for individuals and families buying coverage on ACA marketplaces.
Medicaid: A joint federal-state program providing health coverage to low-income people, including children, pregnant people, seniors, and people with disabilities; eligibility and benefits vary by state.
Medical debt: Ongoing unpaid medical bills that can affect credit and financial stability, even for insured individuals, contributing to personal bankruptcies and debt cycles.
Wayne County example: A reference point where the author previously directed public health and claimed success in reducing debt or improving health outcomes, used to illustrate possibility of broader, scalable reforms.
AI-enabled online violence rising: The UN Women–led study, Tipping Point, surveyed hundreds of women in journalism, human rights and activism across 119 countries and found that about 19% experienced AI-assisted online violence, with deepfakes and other generative-AI misrepresentations contributing to the harm. [1][2]
Offline harm rises from online threats: In 2020, about 20% of female journalists reported offline attacks connected to online violence; five years later, that figure rose to 42%, including swatting and abuse witnessed by their children. [1][3]
AI tools widen disinformation risk: The report notes the mainstreaming of generative AI enables rapid misrepresentation of women in public life, increasing both online abuse and offline risk. [1]
Abuse by political figures amplifies danger: The study finds that abuses by powerful political figures are part of a broader pattern of violence against women in public life worldwide and can intensify during public appearances. [1]
Notable cases illustrate danger: The analysis references Daphne Caruana Galizia’s murder linked to years of misogynistic online violence, and mentions threats against Nobel laureate Maria Ressa as part of the broader pattern. [1][8][6][7]
Call for accountability and action: Posetti argues for urgent accountability for perpetrators and for tech platforms that enable and amplify gender-based online violence to end impunity. [1]
Who Said What
Julie Posetti, Guardian: “Networked misogyny is now firmly established as a key tactic in the 21st-century authoritarian’s playbook.” [1]
Julie Posetti, Guardian: “Impunity for online violence aids and abets impunity for crimes against female journalists.” [1]
Julie Posetti, Guardian: “It is time to act urgently to enforce accountability for both the perpetrators of gender-based online violence and those big tech actors who enable and amplify such attacks.” [1]
Some Context
Deepfakes and generative AI: AI-created or manipulated media that can falsely represent individuals, used to discredit or threaten them online.
Swatting: A harassment tactic that involves making a false report to emergency services to quickly deploy police to a target’s location.
Daphne Caruana Galizia: Maltese investigative journalist whose murder in 2017 followed years of online harassment and death threats linked to misogynistic campaigns.
Maria Ressa: Nobel Peace Prize laureate and journalist whose work on online misinformation and threats has highlighted risks to reporters in the digital age.
UN Women report: Tipping Point, a 2025 study drawing on global surveys of women in journalism, human rights, and activism about the escalation of online violence and its real-world consequences. [2][3][6][7][8]