Kristi Noem aims to scale back CISA, emphasizing a smaller, more focused agency targeting critical infrastructure and small business cyberattacks. She aligns with GOP concerns about CISA's counter-disinformation work, highlighting past actions that allegedly targeted conservative voices and violated First Amendment rights.

The Supreme Court has upheld a federal law requiring the Chinese parent company of TikTok to sell the platform, citing national security concerns. Existing users can retain the app, but new downloads and updates will be banned. The ruling has sparked backlash from digital rights advocates and small business owners.

President-elect Trump moves his inauguration ceremony indoors to the U.S. Capitol Rotunda due to severe cold. Sharing his decision on Truth Social, he emphasizes attendee safety amid dangerously low temperatures, echoing Ronald Reagan's 1985 weather-based indoor move. Venues and security plans adjust rapidly, accommodating the significant change amidst a National Special Security Event.

President Joe Biden voiced concerns about the growing influence of billionaires, likening it to an emerging oligarchy. Progressives had mixed reactions, some criticizing the timeliness of his remarks while others saw potential for future action. The debate underscores ongoing tensions about wealth, power, and democracy in American politics.

President-elect Donald Trump plans to prioritize immigration by issuing aggressive executive orders to crack down on illegal immigration and undo Biden-era policies. Initiatives like ending catch and release and restoring expedited removal are expected swiftly, though ambitious goals like mass deportations may face delays. Overcoming financial and legislative hurdles will be crucial for their successful implementation.

Evacuation orders remain in effect following a fire at the Moss Landing Power Plant, a major battery storage facility in California. The fire raised concerns about toxic hydrogen fluoride, leading to evacuation of 2,000 residents. Monitoring efforts continue, and no injuries have been reported. The incident highlights challenges in managing large-scale battery facilities.

A Florida jury found CNN guilty of defamation against a U.S. Navy veteran, Zachary Young, ruling in favor of his claim that a 2021 report inaccurately depicted his rescue efforts in Afghanistan as a 'black market' operation. The jury awarded Young $5 million in damages.

Southern California wildfires are among the worst in U.S. history, with over 40,000 acres scorched and 12,300 homes destroyed. UAFA's Paul Petersen stresses the need for increased funding and coordinated strategies to address year-round fires. Most ignitions are human-caused. Immediate investment in wildfire prevention and suppression is essential to mitigate catastrophic losses.

The U.S. federal deficit is expected to surge to $1.9 trillion this year due to higher government spending exceeding tax revenue. Projections indicate a growing deficit and rising national debt, driven by increased spending on mandatory programs. Congressional Republicans seek tax cuts and spending reductions, while long-term forecasts show increased interest costs and slowing economic growth.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has appointed his lieutenant governor, Jon Husted, to the state's vacant Senate seat, passing over entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy. Husted's appointment brings significant political experience and aligns with DeWine's steady leadership style. This decision reshapes the political landscape for the 2026 gubernatorial race, with Ramaswamy now focusing on policy initiatives.

The U.S. Supreme Court has unanimously upheld a law requiring ByteDance to divest its ownership of TikTok by January 19 due to national security concerns, leaving the app's future uncertain as President-elect Donald Trump contemplates his next move. Potential penalties for non-compliance could impact third-party providers.

Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 47th U.S. President on January 20, starting his second term. The inauguration will include traditional ceremonies, with Trump delivering an address described as “uplifting and unifying,” in contrast to his 2017 speech. He plans to take immediate executive actions on border security, immigration, and energy. Foreign leaders, including Argentina’s President Milei, will attend, breaking with tradition. The day will end with inaugural galas and celebrations, setting the tone for his administration’s priorities.

The U.S. imposed sanctions on Sudan’s army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, accusing him of war crimes and worsening the conflict with the RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Both sides face allegations of atrocities in a war that has displaced millions. Despite U.S. efforts, including sanctions, the fighting continues, deepening Sudan's humanitarian crisis and suffering.

Joe Biden’s presidency, defined by promises of unity and progress, concludes with division, a fractured Democratic Party, and declining public approval. Controversies like his pardon of son Hunter Biden and questions about his cognitive health overshadowed achievements such as economic reforms and international diplomacy. Strained relationships with allies and a late withdrawal from reelection marked his turbulent final chapter. Once a bridge to future leadership, his tenure reflects the risks of staying in power too long.

Ivy League MBA graduates are facing challenges in the job market, with prestigious schools like Harvard reporting increased difficulty in securing employment post-graduation. Economic uncertainties and shifting hiring practices by firms are major factors. Business schools are adapting by integrating technology and emphasizing networking to help students succeed. Prospective students must evaluate the real value of an Ivy League MBA.

Ohio Representative Jim Jordan proposes shifting the 2028 Olympics from Los Angeles to cities like Dallas or Miami, citing poor governance and wildfire mismanagement in California. Despite criticism, President-elect Donald Trump supports retaining Los Angeles as the host, affirming the event's national importance. This proposal highlights the complex intersection of politics and global events.

Economist Paul Krugman warns Trump supporters about potential financial impacts of proposed economic policies. Krugman criticizes Trump's plans to raise tariffs and cut taxes for the wealthy, predicting harm to working-class Americans. He also highlights the administration’s lack of preparedness to address economic disruptions, stressing the importance of scrutinizing Trump's economic agenda.

Apple's dominance in China's smartphone market has declined, falling to third place behind Vivo and Huawei. Shipments dropped by 17% in 2024 due to fierce competition and a lack of advanced AI features in iPhones. Despite Apple's slump, China's smartphone shipments rose by 4%, showing market resilience and the growing influence of local brands.

David Lynch, the influential American filmmaker known for his surrealist works, passed away at 78 on January 16, 2025. Renowned for films like Eraserhead, Blue Velvet, and the TV series Twin Peaks, Lynch's bold storytelling and unique visuals left a lasting impact on cinema and television. Despite battling emphysema, his creative contributions continued until his passing.

A Philadelphia Eagles fan, Ryan Caldwell, faces a ban from Lincoln Financial Field and job termination after a viral misogynistic rant against a Green Bay Packers fan. Caldwell's employer condemned his behavior, and Caldwell later apologized. The incident highlights ongoing issues with fan conduct at Eagles games.