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News Timeline
CHINA’S SHOCKING TikTok Move: Will Musk Take Over?
— Chinese officials are thinking about selling TikTok’s US operations to Elon Musk. This idea comes as the app faces a possible ban in the United States. The talks highlight ongoing worries about national security risks linked to TikTok, owned by ByteDance.
The potential sale of TikTok’s US operations shows the tension between the United States and China over data privacy issues. Regulatory scrutiny is growing, with technology and foreign investments at the heart of these global challenges.
Elon Musk’s involvement could change how TikTok operates in America if a sale happens. This development marks an important moment in US-China relations regarding technology and data privacy concerns.
PARENTS’ HEARTBREAK: Will Newsom Stop Killer’s Release?
— The parents of Emily Shane, a 13-year-old girl killed by a suicidal driver in Malibu in 2010, are pleading with California Governor Gavin Newsom. They want him to prevent the release of Sina Khankhanian, who was found guilty of second-degree murder and sentenced to 15 years to life. The parole board approved his release again in October 2024, but Newsom has yet to intervene.
Khankhanian drove erratically for 17 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway before hitting Emily as she walked home from a sleepover. He claimed he was upset over losing his job and had suicidal thoughts at the time. His attorney argued that Khankhanian’s autism affected his understanding of the consequences of his actions.
In June 2023, a parole board granted him parole, but Newsom reversed that decision later that year. Now with another approval for release on the table, Emily’s parents are frustrated and concerned about their daughter’s killer potentially walking free without further intervention from Newsom.
ECONOMISTS SOUND Alarm: 2025 Financial Crisis Looms
— Economists are raising alarms about a potential financial crisis in 2025. David Kelly from JPMorgan warns that high stock market valuations pose a significant risk despite strong economic indicators like low layoffs and cooling inflation. Investors should be cautious as these inflated values could lead to a sudden market downturn.
Current economic signs show paychecks growing faster than prices, and stable gas prices offer optimism for Americans. However, the high asset valuations remain a critical concern for analysts. They suggest preparing for increased market volatility throughout 2025, with a crisis potentially emerging early in the year.
These warnings have led to cautious trading, especially in tech stocks that previously drove gains. Traders are balancing concern with optimism, causing fluctuating stock prices in early sessions.
This situation may prompt investors to reassess their portfolios and strategies as they navigate potential shifts due to changing market conditions. The economic concerns highlighted could significantly influence investor behavior and market dynamics moving forward.
TRUMP’S Bold Immigration Plan: Will It Overcome Major Hurdles?
— Immigration officers in New York recently caught a 23-year-old Ecuadorian man convicted of sexually assaulting a minor. This operation shows the targeted enforcement approach used by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Kenneth Genalo, head of Enforcement and Removal Operations for ICE in New York, said they focus on specific targets instead of broad raids.
With Donald Trump possibly returning to the White House, many are curious about how he will handle immigration policies. His promise of mass deportations might face challenges due to limited resources. The number of people already on ICE’s target lists is greater than the manpower available to carry out these operations effectively.
The Biden administration focused deportation efforts on public safety threats and recent border crossers. Trump’s incoming “border czar,” Tom Homan, suggests that the new administration will also prioritize criminals before dealing with other immigrants who have removal orders from courts. This strategy matches current enforcement realities but may still face practical hurdles in execution.
NBA’S SHOCKING Return to China: Millions at Stake After Controversial Ban Lifted
— The Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns will play two preseason games in China. This follows the reinstatement of the NBA’s broadcast deal, worth millions. The league was banned in 2019 after a controversial tweet by Rockets executive Daryl Morey supporting Hong Kong protesters.
Chinese authorities demanded Morey be fired, but NBA Commissioner Adam Silver refused. Instead, Silver publicly criticized Morey, leading to his apology and retraction of support for the pro-democracy movement. Despite this, China suspended NBA broadcasts until now.
Morey’s tweet read: “Fight for freedom, stand with Hong Kong.” His apology aimed to mend relations with Chinese fans and sponsors offended by his stance. He stressed that his views were personal and not representative of the Rockets or the NBA as a whole.
The return of NBA games to Chinese screens marks a significant financial move for both parties involved. It highlights ongoing tensions between business interests and political stances within international sports diplomacy.
EUROPEAN Allies RALLY to Defend Ukraine as Trump Era Looms
— London, Paris, and Warsaw are forming a core group to support Ukraine against Russia, anticipating changes in U.S. policy under a possible Trump presidency. Donald Trump hasn’t detailed his plans for ending the conflict but has mentioned options like land swaps or demilitarized zones. These strategies clash with Ukraine’s goal of total victory over Russia.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to discuss defense matters and support for Ukraine. They want outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden to allow Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles against Russia before any Trump policy shift. The U.S., however, worries this could escalate tensions with Moscow significantly.
A UK government source stressed the urgency of maximizing efforts before Trump’s potential presidency begins on January 20th. Starmer and Macron aim to strengthen Ukraine’s position as winter nears and after Trump’s re-election announcement days ago, despite financial challenges faced by both the UK and France amid budgetary issues.
Poland, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusks, is also increasing its role in this emerging anti-Trump alliance within Europe. Meetings between Polish leaders and European counterparts are planned to involve NATO members from Scandinavia as well.
NEBRASKA COURT Upholds Abortion And Gender Care BAN: Aclu Loses Fight
— Nebraska’s LB574, combining the Let Them Grow Act and Preborn Child Protection Act, was upheld by the state’s highest court. The bill initially faced a filibuster but was revised to include a ban on gender-affirming treatment for children. The ACLU sued, claiming it violated the single-subject rule, but the court disagreed.
Chief Justice Mike Heavican stated that both abortion and sex-change procedures fall under medical care, satisfying the single-subject requirement. He emphasized that as long as a bill has one general objective and its title reflects its content, it does not violate constitutional rules.
Justice Lindsey Miller-Lerman dissented strongly, accusing the majority of hypocrisy based on a 2020 ruling against medical marijuana legalization for violating the same rule. ACLU attorney Matt Segal argued that abortion and transgender care were separate issues until combined out of necessity by legislators.
LABOUR PARTY’S Economic Plan Under Fire: Will It Really Work?
— Britain’s new Treasury chief, Rachel Reeves, vows to run the economy with “iron discipline.” She hinted at above-inflation pay raises for public sector workers to end ongoing strikes.
The Labour Party, elected two weeks ago, faces pressure to increase salaries and welfare without raising taxes or public borrowing. Reeves criticized the previous Conservative government for high taxes and debt.
Labour won a landslide victory on promises of economic growth, housebuilding, green energy projects, and improved public services. The electorate seeks relief from high living costs and past economic mismanagement.
Inflation has dropped to 2%, but strikes by hospital doctors strain the National Health Service. Other public-sector workers like nurses and teachers have also demanded higher pay through walkouts over the past year.
BRITAIN HALTS Arrests: Chaos Looms Amid Prison Crisis
— The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has advised British police to suspend “non-priority arrests” and halt operations that could lead to many arrests, according to the Times of London. The NPCC memo stressed that public protection remains a priority but suggested pausing certain activities to ease pressure on the criminal justice system.
The advice includes not jailing suspects for alleged burglaries if on-the-scene forensics or CCTV reviews are pending. Non-intelligence operations that can be delayed should be postponed. However, large-scale protests and public events should still be prioritized by police forces.
This guidance comes as male prisons face potential overcrowding by June due to judicial delays from COVID-19 lockdowns and barrister strikes. To address this, the government extended an emergency early-release scheme allowing some prisoners, excluding sex offenders and terrorists, to be released up to 70 days early starting Thursday.
Additionally, the government approved delaying court cases, meaning some suspects will be released on bail while awaiting trial rather than being held in custody. The Ministry of Justice has not disclosed how many prisoners have been freed under these measures since their implementation in October.
TIKTOK On The BRINK: Biden’s Bold Move to Ban or Force Sale of Chinese App
— TikTok and Universal Music Group have just renewed their partnership. This deal brings UMG’s music back to TikTok after a short break. The agreement includes better promotion strategies and new AI protections. Universal CEO Lucian Grainge said the deal will help artists and creators on the platform.
President Joe Biden has signed a new law that gives TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, nine months to sell the app or face a ban in the U.S. This decision is due to worries from both political sides about national security and protecting American youth from foreign influence.
TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, announced plans to fight this law in U.S courts, claiming it supports their constitutional rights. Yet, ByteDance would rather close TikTok in the U.S than sell it if they lose their legal battle.
This conflict shows the ongoing struggle between TikTok’s business goals and America’s national security needs. It points out big worries about data privacy and foreign influence in American digital spaces by China’s tech sector.
ISRAEL’S Military Strikes in Gaza Spark US Alarm: Humanitarian Crisis Looms
— The U.S. has voiced serious concerns over Israel’s military operations in Gaza, particularly in the city of Rafah. This area is crucial as it serves as a center for humanitarian aid and provides shelter to over a million displaced individuals. The U.S. is worried that increasing military activities could cut off vital aid and deepen the humanitarian crisis.
Public and private communications have been made by the U.S. with Israel, focusing on the protection of civilians and the facilitation of humanitarian assistance. Sullivan, actively engaged in these discussions, has emphasized the need for effective plans to ensure civilian safety and access to essential resources such as food, housing, and medical care.
Sullivan stressed that American decisions will be guided by national interests and values amid this conflict. He confirmed that these principles would consistently influence U.S actions, demonstrating a commitment to both American standards and international humanitarian norms during ongoing tensions in Gaza.
Ex-Energy Minister RESIGNS Over UK’S GREEN Betrayal: A Conservative Crisis Looms
— Former Energy Minister, Chris Skidmore, has dropped a bombshell by resigning from the Conservative Party and his parliamentary seat. His decision comes in response to the government’s U-turn on environmental commitments.
Skidmore, known for his strong advocacy for reducing carbon emissions to net zero by 2050, voiced disappointment over an upcoming bill. This controversial legislation promotes new North Sea oil and gas drilling which Skidmore sees as a glaring departure from the UK’s climate objectives.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is reportedly watering down several green initiatives due to 'unacceptable costs’ for ordinary citizens. Actions include pushing back a ban on new gas and diesel vehicles, scrapping an energy-efficiency regulation, and green-lighting numerous North Sea oil and gas licenses.
Skidmore is set to officially step down when Parliament reconvenes after its Christmas break next week. His exit indicates a rising wave of dissatisfaction within conservative circles over the government’s shifting environmental policies.
SECOND AMENDMENT Assault: California’s Public Gun Ban Rolls OUT Despite Legal Firestorms
— As the New Year dawns, a contentious California law banning firearms in most public places is set to take effect. This move comes hot on the heels of a U.S. district judge’s ruling on December 20, declaring that the law infringes upon the Second Amendment and citizens’ rights to self-defense.
The district judge’s verdict was momentarily stalled by a federal appeals court, paving way for the law’s enactment while legal battles rage on. Lawyers are gearing up to present their cases before the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in January and February.
Spearheaded by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, this controversial law prohibits concealed carry in 26 locations such as public parks, churches, banks, and zoos — irrespective of permit status. The only loophole is for private businesses that explicitly permit firearms within their boundaries.
Newsom hailed the appeals court’s decision on X (formerly Twitter), asserting it maintains 'common-sense gun laws’ during appeal processes. However, dissenting voices like U.S. District Judge Cormac Carney contend that this sweeping legislation is “repugnant to the Second Amendment,” and flouts Supreme Court precedent.
TIKTOK’S SHADOW BAN: Suppressing Content Critical of Chinese Communist Party?
— A recent investigation by Rutgers University’s Network Contagion Research Institute has unveiled unsettling details about TikTok’s content guidelines. The popular social media platform, notorious for its data collection and sharing with its parent company in China, now stands accused of stifling content that criticizes the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
The research team found a stark contrast in the number of posts featuring contentious hashtags such as China’s conflict with India over Kashmir, the Tiananmen Square massacre, and the Uyghur genocide on TikTok compared to other platforms like Instagram. For instance, there were 206 Instagram posts tagged #HongKongProtests for every single one on TikTok. Similar ratios were observed for #StandWithKashmir, #FreeUyghurs, and #DalaiLama.
The report suggests that there is a high likelihood that TikTok either boosts or suppresses content depending on how it aligns with the Chinese government’s interests. This is worrisome since many Generation Z users rely on TikTok as their primary news source — interestingly enough, this is also the only generation reported not to take pride in being American.
TikTok cannot deny these findings as they mirror the methodology used by them last month to prove their platform was not biased against Israel. This revelation raises serious questions about
TEXAS Supreme Court DISMISSES Abortion Challenge: Pregnant Woman with Fetal Anomaly Forced to Leave State
— Kate Cox, a pregnant woman from Texas, found herself in a dire situation when her unborn child was diagnosed with trisomy 18 — a fatal condition. With the state’s strict abortion ban in place, she had no choice but to leave Texas and seek an abortion elsewhere. This happened just before the Texas Supreme Court rejected her challenge against the stringent abortion legislation.
Cox spent nearly a week trying to get court approval for ending her pregnancy due to health risks and potential fertility issues in the future. However, Attorney General Ken Paxton argued that Cox didn’t provide enough evidence that her pregnancy complications were life-threatening.
Even after leaving Texas, Cox’s case was dismissed by the state Supreme Court. The court ruled that while Cox’s pregnancy complications were severe, they didn’t pose an immediate threat to her life as required by law for an exception.
The Center for Reproductive Rights represented Cox during this ordeal. They reported that she had been frequently visiting emergency rooms due to health concerns related to her pregnancy. However, they did not reveal where she eventually went for the procedure.
US-CHINA Economic Reset PROPOSED: Will Higher Tariffs Be the New Norm?
— A bipartisan committee in the House has put forth a proposal for a complete overhaul of US economic ties with China. This includes the suggestion of implementing higher tariffs. The pivotal recommendations were released in an extensive report by the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition Between the United States and Chinese Communist Party, chaired by Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL).
The report posits that since its induction into the World Trade Organization in 2001, Beijing has been engaged in an economic conflict against both the US and its allies. It outlines three key strategies: revamping America’s economic relationship with China, limiting U.S. capital and technological inflow into China, and strengthening U.S. economic resilience with allied support.
One notable recommendation is to shift China to a new tariff column to enforce more robust tariffs. The committee also suggests imposing tariffs on essential semiconductor chips used in everyday devices like phones and cars. This move aims to prevent Chinese domination in this sector from granting Beijing undue control over global economy.
Trump Running in 2024 to Avoid JAIL Says Former GOP Congressman
— Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential run is under scrutiny, as former Texas Republican congressman, Will Hurd, suggests he’s doing it to “stay out of jail.” Hurd’s comments were made in a recent CNN interview, attracting attention from other Republicans, including Chris Christie, who questioned Trump’s viability against Joe Biden.
NO-FLY Zone Was Introduced for Nicola Bulley’s Funeral
— The Secretary of State for Transport implemented a no-fly zone over the church in Saint Michael’s on Wyre, Lancashire, where the funeral of Nicola Bulley took place on Wednesday. The move was made to prevent TikTok detectives from filming the funeral with drones following the arrest of one TikToker for allegedly filming Nicola’s body being pulled out of the River Wyre.
Nicola Bulley: TikToker ARRESTED for Filming Within Police Cordon
— The Kidderminster man (aka Curtis Media) who filmed and published footage of police recovering Nicola Bulley’s body from the River Wyre was arrested on malicious communications offenses. It comes after police are reportedly charging several content creators for disrupting the investigation.
TikToker Who FILMED Nicola Bulley Being Pulled from River Shamed by Media
— The man who filmed police removing Nicola Bulley’s body from the river has been identified as a Kidderminster hairdresser.
BACK Online: Trump’s Facebook and Instagram Accounts to be REINSTATED
— Meta has announced that it will lift the ban on Donald Trump’s Facebook and Instagram accounts in the coming weeks. The president of global affairs at Meta and former deputy prime minister of the United Kingdom, Nick Clegg, announced that they “don’t want to get in the way of open debate on our platforms, esp in context of democratic elections.”
Clegg stated the company had assessed the risk of allowing the former president back on the platform according to their “Crisis Policy Protocol” and had consulted experts. The decision was caveated with the statement that “new guardrails” are now in place to stop “repeat offenses.”
The announcement comes not long after Twitter, now under the control of Elon Musk, also reinstated Trump; however, he is yet to return to use the platform.
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NETANYAHU WARNS Iran: "Big Mistake" Will Have Consequences
— Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Iran made a “big mistake” and will face consequences for its actions. This follows a series of missile attacks by Iran on Israeli targets, marking significant military confrontations between the two nations. Netanyahu delivered this warning during a news conference in Jerusalem, emphasizing Israel’s commitment to defending itself and retaliating against Iranian aggression.
The Iranian offensive involved over 300 airborne weapons, including missiles and drones, aimed at various locations within Israel. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), with help from U.S. and allied forces, neutralized many of the attacks before they could cause massive destruction. Despite these defensive successes, the assaults have heightened military alertness within Israel and raised fears of further escalations in the region.
Netanyahu’s stern message underscores Israel’s readiness to escalate its military response if necessary. “Iran’s actions have crossed a red line, and they will pay a heavy price,” he asserted. This statement aims to deter Iran and its proxy groups from future attempts to target Israel while garnering international support for Israel’s right to defend itself.
As tensions rise, uncertainty looms over the Middle East with potential for broader conflict increasing daily. Ongoing military actions have drawn in global powers, making resolution an international concern. The coming days are critical in determining whether diplomacy can prevail or if further
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