The ACTUAL NEWS: Friday, January 10th 2025 Recap
December 2024 Jobs Report: President Biden Comments on the Economy, Election, His Future, and Announces Farewell Speech, Plus More National and Global News
TODAY IN HISTORY
1776: Thomas Paine published Common Sense, a 50-page pamphlet that sold over 500,000 copies within a few months, calling for a war of independence that led to the American Revolution.
1861: Florida seceded from the Union and joined the Confederacy in February.
1920: The League of Nations was established in Geneva.
1946: The first United Nations General Assembly met in London.
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NATIONAL
On Monday, January 13, President Biden will deliver a foreign policy address at the State Department on the work of his Administration to strengthen America and lead the world.
On Wednesday, January 15 at 8:00 PM, the President will deliver a Farewell Address to the nation from the Oval Office.
Judge Juan Merchan, who oversaw Donald Trump’s criminal trial, issued a sentence of “unconditional discharge” after Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. This means Trump will not face any fine, imprisonment, or probation supervision despite the felony conviction. However, the ruling legally designates him as a convicted felon without imposing further penalties.
The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review the legality of a key provision of the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) that requires insurers to cover preventive medical services at no cost to patients. The case stems from an appeal by President Biden's administration, challenging a lower court ruling that sided with Christian businesses. These businesses objected to covering HIV-preventing medication in their employee health plans, arguing that the task force's structure behind the mandate violated the U.S. Constitution.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced on Friday that the 2025 tax filing season will begin on January 27. However, the agency warned that expanded tools planned for the season may not be adequately supported if the Republican-controlled Congress rescinds tens of billions of dollars in supplemental IRS funding.
President Joe Biden's administration renewed deportation relief on Friday for 900,000 immigrants from Venezuela, El Salvador, Ukraine, and Sudan. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) extended enrollment in the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program for those nations, giving those immigrants a deportation reprieve and access to work permits for an additional 18 months. This action delays any efforts by President-elect Donald Trump to end these protections.
A new study estimates that over 36,000 residents move away per quarter from Idaho and 12 other states that quickly enacted abortion bans more than two years ago.
U.S. consumers expect inflation to rise over the next 12 months and beyond, likely due to concerns that broad tariffs on imports promised by President-elect Donald Trump's incoming administration could increase household prices.
President-elect Donald Trump's company is in talks to repurchase the lease on a hotel in Washington D.C. that it previously owned, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal on Friday, citing sources familiar with the matter.
The U.S. is expected to release a climate model by next week for clean fuel tax credits that will significantly limit ethanol producers' access to subsidies for the production of sustainable aviation fuel, according to three sources familiar with the matter, as reported by Reuters.
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's aides at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have conducted preliminary interviews with staffers at more than a dozen federal agencies, The Washington Post reported on Friday.
GLOBAL
President Biden is set to issue an executive order in the coming days, calling for stricter cybersecurity standards for federal agencies and contractors. The order aims to address ongoing cyber threats, particularly those linked to China and cybercriminal operations, according to a draft seen by Reuters.
President Biden has reviewed and approved the proposed Agreement for Cooperation between the United States and Thailand regarding the peaceful use of nuclear energy. After considering input from relevant departments, the President determined that the agreement would promote national security and pose no unreasonable risks. Under the Atomic Energy Act, the President authorized the Secretary of State to execute the agreement and publish the determination in the Federal Register.
President Biden spoke today with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy to express thanks for Italy's role as a leader in the G7, NATO, and European Union. President Biden expressed appreciation to Prime Minister Meloni for Italy's support for the people of Ukraine. The leaders affirmed the enduring strength of U.S.-Italy relations.
Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya will attend Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20, ensuring that a high-ranking official from Japan, a key Asian ally, will be present at the event, according to two sources familiar with the matter.
NATO Secretary General, Mr. Mark Rutte, will participate in a joint meeting of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET) and the Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE) for an exchange of views.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the need for continued U.S. troop deployment in Syria to prevent the Islamic State group from regaining strength following the removal of Bashar Assad’s government, according to The Associated Press.
U.S., French, and German envoys have warned Syria's new Islamist rulers that appointing foreign jihadists to senior military positions poses a security risk and harms their efforts to improve relations with other countries, according to two sources familiar with the matter.
Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez cannot enter the country, according to his ally Maria Corina Machado, who spoke on Friday. This statement came shortly after President Nicolás Maduro was sworn in for a third term, despite ongoing controversy surrounding the disputed July election.
Thousands of protesters gathered in the Slovak capital on Friday, holding banners and chanting slogans, accusing Prime Minister Robert Fico of steering the country closer to Russia. This came after Fico's meeting with President Vladimir Putin last month amid a gas dispute with Ukraine.
Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly announced on Friday that she would not run in the race to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. She cited her desire to focus on addressing the threat posed by potential U.S. tariffs.
U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Friday that there is a risk North Korea may attempt to exploit the domestic political turmoil in South Korea, adding that it is in Washington's interest to help resolve the issue.
Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede said on Friday that he was open to speaking with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who has expressed interest in gaining control over the Arctic island. Egede also emphasized the importance of respecting Greenland's aspirations for independence.
President Biden's Statement on December 2024 Jobs Report
President Joe Biden announced the creation of 256,000 new jobs in December 2024, bringing the total to over 16.6 million jobs during his administration.
This marks a historic achievement as Biden's administration is the only one to have created jobs every single month.
Despite inheriting a severe economic crisis with high unemployment, Biden's leadership has resulted in the lowest average unemployment rate in 50 years, at 4.1%. Under his administration, the U.S. saw the strongest economic recovery among advanced countries, record-high employment for working-age women, and the smallest black-white unemployment gap ever.
While acknowledging ongoing challenges, Biden highlighted measures taken to reduce costs, including cuts to prescription drug prices and gas prices, underscoring the administration's commitment to supporting working families.
President Biden Announces Record 21 Million New Business Applications
Record Number of New Businesses: Under President Biden’s Administration, American entrepreneurs have filed 21 million new business applications, marking the highest number in any Presidential Administration.
Strong Entrepreneurial Growth: Over the last four years, the U.S. has experienced the strongest period of new business applications on record, showcasing confidence in the economy.
Support for Entrepreneurs: The Administration has boosted entrepreneurship by expanding access to capital and investing in infrastructure, manufacturing, and clean energy, benefiting small businesses nationwide.
Historic Federal Contracts: The Small Business Administration (SBA) announced $183 billion in federal contracts to small businesses and $78 billion to small disadvantaged businesses in Fiscal Year 2024, both record highs.
Role of Small Businesses: Small businesses have been a key driver of the economic recovery and will remain essential to maintaining the U.S. economy as the strongest in the world.
President Biden Comments on the Election, Economy and His Future
After offering remarks on the economy and the newly released jobs report, reporters asked about Russia sanctions, Pope Francis, Meta's decision on fact-checking, pardoning himself, Ukraine, whether Harris should run again, the Havana syndrome, and what role he sees for himself after the presidency.
Here are some quotes:
Question on today's Russia sanctions: Can you explain why those sanctions were imposed today and not earlier in the term?
Biden: "The sanctions were imposed today because they will have a profound effect... for the Russian economy." "It will make it more difficult for him to conduct his wars."
Question on the canceled trip to Italy: Did you speak to Pope Francis about canceling your trip to the Vatican and are you disappointed to not make that visit before leaving office?
Biden: "Well to be honest, I am disappointed. But it's much more important I stay here with all that's going on. He fully understands that. I did not personally speak to him, but the team spoke with the apostolic delegate. But I am disappointed."
Question on self-pardoning: Have you ruled out pardoning yourself or any other additional members of your family?
Biden: “For myself? What would I pardon myself for? I have no contemplation of pardoning myself. I didn't do anything wrong.”
Question on Meta’s elimination of factchecking: Would you comment on Meta's decision to undo its fact checking operations in the United States? Was that a good decision in your opinion?
Biden: “The whole idea of walking away from fact checking as well as not reporting anything having to do with discrimination with regarding TPS, I find to be, just contrary to American justice, American, the way we talk about one another. Telling the truth matters."
Question on re-election: Do you regret your decision to run for reelection? Do you think it made it easier for your predecessor to now become your successor?
Biden: “I don't think so. I think I would have beaten Trump and would have beaten Trump." "I thought it was important to unify the party and when the party was worried about whether or not I was going to be able to move, even though I thought I could win again, I thought it was better to unify the party."
Question about support for Ukraine:
Biden: "I had a long talk with Zelensky today. I think as long as we continue to keep Western Europe united with respects to Ukraine, there is a real chance Ukrainians can prevail. Because the cost to Russia is incredibly high."
Question about whether Kamala Harris should run again:
Biden: "I think she's competent to run again in four years. That will be a decision for her to make."
Question was asked about a change in the US intelligence assessment on the Havana syndrome.
Biden said: "I don't have a full brief on that right now. I'm not going to comment on that."
Question on (preemptive) pardons: Can you give us a sense of what other pardons and commutations you are considering in your last days?
Biden: "It depends on some of the language and expectations that Trump broadcasts in the last couple days here as to what he's going to do. The idea that he would punish people for not adhering to what he thinks should be policy as related to his well being is outrageous. But there is still consideration for some folks, but still no decision."
Question on post-residency: What kind of role will you have post presidency? Will you have a role or will you follow the Bush model where you are kind of out of sight, out of mind?
Biden: "I'm not going to be out of sight or out of mind."
The quotes were provided by the White House press pool.
2024 Hits Record High Temperature, Approaching Paris Agreement Limits
The average global temperature in 2024 was 1.6°C above preindustrial levels, marking the hottest year on record, according to the EU climate monitoring service. This trend brings the world dangerously close to exceeding the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C target, the European Union (EU) climate monitoring service said today.
The year also saw severe heatwaves and intense rainfall, affecting millions.
The release of the data coincides with the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, whose administration is reportedly considering withdrawing from the Paris Agreement, sparking opposition from both climate scientists and industry leaders like ExxonMobil's CEO.
NSC Statement on Anomalous Health Incidents and Ongoing Efforts
Biden-Harris Administration's Commitment: The Administration launched a dedicated effort to address anomalous health incidents reported by U.S. personnel. This involved collaboration across government agencies to improve medical care, ensure safe reporting, and provide benefits under the HAVANA Act, signed into law by President Biden.
Investigation and Research: The Intelligence Community (IC) has been tasked with investigating the causes of these incidents, with intensive research conducted by leading laboratories, informed by experts both inside and outside the government.
Ongoing Priorities: The updated Intelligence Community Assessment emphasizes the importance of continued research, investigation, and timely medical care. The assessment supports the need for ongoing efforts to clarify the causes of symptoms reported by affected personnel.
Panel Recommendations: Experts from the Intelligence Community panel suggest that certain anomalous health incidents cannot be explained by known conditions. Pulsed electromagnetic or acoustic energy remains a plausible explanation for some cases.
Sustained Effort: Addressing these health incidents requires sustained clinical research and investigation. The goal is to identify causes, develop medical interventions, and prevent future occurrences, ensuring the well-being of affected personnel and their families.
U.S. Expands Sanctions on Russia’s Oil Sector to Cut War Funding
The U.S. Department of the Treasury, alongside the UK, has escalated sanctions against Russia's oil sector, a key revenue source funding the war in Ukraine.
The new measures target two major Russian oil producers, Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegas, along with over 180 oil-carrying vessels, dozens of traders, oilfield service providers, and energy officials. A new determination under Executive Order 14024 expands sanctions to any entity operating in Russia's energy sector, while a ban on U.S. petroleum services will further cripple Russia’s oil extraction and production.
Additionally, Treasury sanctioned shadowy traders and maritime insurers facilitating Russia’s illicit oil exports. These actions build on the G7's efforts to limit Russian energy revenues and increase sanctions risks for the country's oil trade.
Sanctions Implications: The new sanctions block all property and interests of the designated individuals and entities within U.S. jurisdiction or under U.S. control, with prohibited transactions involving blocked persons. U.S. persons or entities must report any dealings with these blocked individuals, and any entities 50% or more owned by blocked persons are also sanctioned. Violating these sanctions can lead to penalties, and foreign financial institutions facilitating transactions for blocked entities may also face sanctions. Non-U.S. persons are prohibited from evading or conspiring to violate these U.S. sanctions.
For more details, foreign financial institutions are advised to consult the updated OFAC guidance and FAQs. The sanctions aim to bring about behavioral change rather than punishment, with the potential for removal from the sanctions list under specific conditions.
U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Venezuelan Officials for Repression and Human Rights Abuses
The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has sanctioned eight Venezuelan officials connected to Nicolás Maduro’s repression and subversion of democracy. These individuals include leaders of key economic and security agencies, such as the president of Venezuela's state-owned oil company, PdVSA, and the president of the Venezuelan airline CONVIASA. High-ranking officials from the military and police, involved in human rights abuses, were also sanctioned. This action aligns with similar measures by Canada, the EU, and the UK, underscoring international solidarity against Maduro’s regime.
In addition, the U.S. Department of State has increased reward offers up to $25 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction of Maduro and Diosdado Cabello, the Minister of Interior, Justice, and Peace. A new reward of up to $15 million is also being offered for information on Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino. These efforts further escalate pressure on the Maduro government and support calls for a democratic transition in Venezuela.
Sanctions Implications: As a result of these sanctions, all property and interests of the designated individuals are blocked within U.S. jurisdiction. U.S. persons and entities are prohibited from engaging in transactions involving these individuals unless authorized by OFAC. Engaging in certain transactions with the sanctioned officials may expose financial institutions to sanctions or enforcement actions. The goal of the sanctions is not punitive but to encourage a positive change in behavior by those designated.
Zelenskyy and Biden Discuss U.S. Support for Ukraine and Sanctions on Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke with U.S. President Joe Biden, offering condolences over the California wildfires and praising American efforts to save lives. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for U.S. support of Ukraine's independence and the creation of a global coalition to defend freedom. The leaders discussed new U.S. sanctions targeting Russia’s energy sector, aimed at reducing funding for Putin’s war. Zelenskyy thanked the U.S. government for its unwavering support in pressuring Russia. The conversation also addressed Ukraine’s ongoing battlefield challenges and the need to strengthen air defense systems. Biden reaffirmed that protecting Ukraine's sovereignty is vital for Europe and the global democratic community.
Far-Right Leader Alice Weidel Claims Hitler Was a Communist, Sparking Outrage
Germany's far-right AfD co-leader Alice Weidel controversially claimed in a live interview with Elon Musk that Adolf Hitler was a communist, despite Hitler's explicit rejection of socialism and communism in his writings. Weidel argued that Hitler, whom she described as a socialist, was mischaracterized as a conservative, but her assertion was widely criticized by both the left and the right. Historical evidence contradicts her claim, as Hitler was a staunch anti-communist and his government was aligned with fascism, not socialism. The interview, which Musk hosted without challenge, has led to backlash from German and Austrian universities, the German Federal Court, and top football clubs, all of which have severed ties with Twitter.
U.S. Strategy for a Stronger Indo-Pacific: Promoting Freedom, Security, and Prosperity
President Biden has emphasized the Indo-Pacific as crucial for both U.S. and global futures, strengthening the region through strategic partnerships and shared goals.
Free and Open Indo-Pacific:
Promoting transparency, freedom of navigation, and sovereign political choices.
U.S. military upholds international law, challenges excessive maritime claims, and supports regional cooperation through joint exercises.
Investment in democratic institutions, a free press, and human rights, with action on abuses in China, North Korea, and Burma.
Humanitarian aid, including $1.8 billion in assistance to Burma, and efforts to counter foreign information manipulation.
Connected Indo-Pacific:
Strengthening bilateral relationships with countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines through comprehensive strategic partnerships.
Elevating the Quad (U.S., Australia, India, Japan) to address regional challenges and cooperation in cybersecurity, health security, and maritime awareness.
Expanding U.S. diplomatic presence in the region, including new embassies and consulates, as well as renewed partnerships in the Pacific Islands.
Prosperous Indo-Pacific:
Promoting economic growth through the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and launching the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).
Investments in infrastructure, including ports, energy, and digital connectivity, and efforts to close the region’s infrastructure gap.
Expanding secure and resilient telecommunications and energy projects, with a focus on 5G and undersea cable infrastructure.
Stable and Secure Indo-Pacific:
Enhancing defense alliances through AUKUS, U.S.-Japan, U.S.-Philippines, and U.S.-ROK partnerships to address regional security challenges.
Providing $2 billion in foreign military financing to bolster allies’ defense capabilities, including Taiwan’s self-defense.
Promoting maritime security through new initiatives like the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness.
Resilient Indo-Pacific:
Addressing climate change through initiatives like the U.S.-ASEAN Climate Solutions Hub and disaster resilience programs.
Enhancing infrastructure resilience, coordinating humanitarian aid, and deepening cooperation on clean energy research and development.
Collaborating on health security with Quad partners, scaling up COVID-19 responses and launching cancer research initiatives.
This comprehensive strategy aims to ensure that the Indo-Pacific remains free, open, prosperous, secure, and resilient, driving both regional and global stability.
VIDEO QUICK NEWS
President Biden Was Asked Whether He Would Pardon Himself
Secretary Austin, after his final meeting in the Ramstein format: “Russia has paid an appalling price for this indefensible war. Yet Putin has not achieved a single one of his strategic objectives. Not one.”
Professor Galloway Explained on CNN That We Are Entering an Era of Kleptocracy
Meta's Zuckerberg Claims Biden Admin Censored Facebook During Vaccine Rollout, Despite Timeline Contradictions
Mark Zuckerberg appeared on the Joe Rogan podcast, where he alleged that the Biden administration pressured Facebook to censor content during the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
However, his claim seems at odds with the timeline, as the U.S. began distributing the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in December 2020, with the first doses administered on December 14, 2020, and the Moderna vaccine following soon after on December 18, 2020.
Trump Claims Greenland Wants to Join the U.S., Video Reveals Paid Actors
President-elect Donald Trump recently asserted that residents of Greenland had expressed interest in joining the United States, particularly after he proposed buying the territory.
His son, Don Jr., along with MAGA influencers, traveled to Greenland to film a highly produced video promoting this idea.
However, the Greenland government has since revealed that the people featured in the video were either paid or offered meals to participate, with one man living under a bridge receiving a warm meal in exchange for his involvement.
Trump referenced this video in discussions with Republican Senators.
That’s it from me for now. Thank you so much for reading.
Have a wonderful weekend!
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