A report indicates that the CDC's flagship health journal has been significantly silenced since the Trump administration, with delays, reduced publications, and alleged political interference, including claims that articles now require approval from a health secretary with no scientific background.
Social Security advocates are raising concerns after former President Donald Trump appointed a Wall Street executive to lead the Social Security Administration (SSA). Critics argue that this move could undermine the agency's mission to serve the public, fearing that a leader with a Wall Street background may prioritize financial interests over the needs of beneficiaries.
The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite reached new record highs, while Bitcoin maintained its position above $100,000, driven by optimism over pro-growth policies expected from the incoming Trump administration. Large-cap tech stocks like Tesla and Nvidia saw gains, while Synopsys and Fiserv faced declines due to disappointing forecasts and executive appointments, respectively. Investors are closely watching the upcoming jobs report and Federal Reserve's rate decisions. Meanwhile, American Airlines and Five Below stocks surged on new partnerships and leadership changes.
Dr. Peter Hotez, a pro-lockdown virologist, warns that the Trump administration will face multiple infectious disease threats, including a mystery respiratory virus in Congo that has killed nearly 150 people. The outbreak in Congo, affecting mostly teenagers, has prompted a 'maximum alert' and the involvement of UN health officials. Hotez highlights the risks of emerging diseases like bird flu, measles, and whooping cough in the U.S., exacerbated by declining vaccination rates, and urges against cutting disease research funding. The Trump administration's stance on health funding and vaccine skepticism is also noted.
Bitcoin surged past $100,000 for the first time, driven by investor optimism about the incoming Trump administration's potential crypto-friendly policies, including the appointment of crypto enthusiast Paul Atkins to lead the SEC. The cryptocurrency's breakout above a pennant pattern suggests a bullish target of $129,930, while key support levels to watch are $90,500, $80,500, and $70,000. The rally reflects a 45% increase since the election, with technical indicators like the golden cross and RSI supporting the uptrend, though overbought conditions may prompt profit-taking.
The House GOP faces a challenging math problem as Democrats flip the final House seat of the 2024 elections, narrowing the Republican majority to 220-215. This slim margin complicates efforts to advance President-elect Donald Trump's agenda, especially with potential resignations of GOP members for Cabinet positions. Meanwhile, Pete Hegseth, Trump's controversial pick for defense secretary, vows to continue his nomination fight despite allegations against him. Additionally, President Biden's pardon of his son Hunter has sparked criticism and concerns about setting new precedents in presidential pardons.
Scott Bessent, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Treasury Secretary, is set to meet with Senate Republican leaders as his confirmation process begins. Bessent, a hedge fund manager, is seen favorably by Republicans and Wall Street for his economic expertise, though his support for Trump's trade policies and ideas like a 'shadow Fed chair' could spark debate. His confirmation could highlight Republican divisions over Trump's economic strategies, such as tariffs and Federal Reserve independence. Democrats have criticized Bessent's Wall Street ties but have not committed to opposing his nomination.
Concerns are rising over the potential handling of the H5N1 bird flu outbreak under a second Trump administration, with fears of reduced infectious disease research and vaccine skepticism. Trump's health agency nominees, including vaccine skeptic Dave Weldon, could lead to decreased surveillance and preparedness, risking the resurgence of diseases. Experts worry about cuts to public health infrastructure and the impact on pandemic response, with significant implications for Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act.
Sanctuary cities across the U.S. are preparing to resist the Trump administration's anticipated mass deportation plans, with local leaders like Denver's mayor expressing willingness to protest and even face jail time. Trump's team, including "border czar" Tom Homan, has threatened to withhold federal funds and arrest non-compliant local officials. Cities like Los Angeles and Chicago are strengthening their defenses and organizing community training to counteract federal immigration enforcement. Trump's proposed use of the military for deportations raises legal concerns, while his administration may seek congressional support to penalize non-cooperative cities.
The nursing home industry is urging former President Trump to rescind a staffing mandate that requires a minimum number of staff in facilities, arguing it imposes financial burdens and operational challenges. The industry is lobbying for changes, claiming the mandate is difficult to meet due to workforce shortages and increased costs.
Electric vehicle (EV) sales in the U.S. are expected to surge in the final months of the year as buyers rush to take advantage of significant discounts that may disappear in 2025. This anticipated increase is driven by reports that President-Elect Trump plans to eliminate the $7,500 federal tax credit for clean car buyers. Currently, discounts on some EV models can reach up to $20,000, with incentives and lease deals contributing to the growth. The potential policy change is prompting consumers to act quickly to secure these savings before they potentially vanish.
Silicon Valley venture capitalists, including Marc Andreessen, Joe Lonsdale, and Antonio Gracias, are reportedly being considered for roles in Donald Trump's transition team, particularly in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and a potential crypto advisory council. These VCs, known for their ties to Elon Musk and investments in tech and defense, are expected to help streamline federal programs and shape U.S. crypto policy. The DOGE committee aims to recommend program cuts and reduce federal employees, while facing potential legal challenges.
Several Silicon Valley venture capitalists, including Marc Andreessen, Joe Lonsdale, and Antonio Gracias, are reportedly being considered for roles in Donald Trump's transition team and advisory panels. These panels, including the Department of Government Efficiency, aim to address technical challenges in federal data collection and recommend program cuts. Additionally, Andreessen Horowitz is in the running for a crypto advisory council to help shape U.S. crypto policy. Former Trump tech advisor Michael Kratsios is also involved in tech policy for the transition team.
Donald Trump Jr. has become a key figure in his father's inner circle, influencing cabinet nominations and advocating for controversial figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard. With Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner stepping back, Don Jr. is expected to remain influential, though not advising full-time. Despite his involvement, President Trump may rely less on family in his second term, with a more structured team led by Susie Wiles.
The Trump administration, alongside congressional Republicans, is preparing to intensify legal actions against pro-Palestinian protesters, potentially using federal investigations and indictments. Measures could include deporting foreign students supporting Hamas, prosecuting demonstrators disrupting Jewish events, and charging protest leaders with failing to register as foreign agents. This approach contrasts with the Biden administration's stance, prompting civil rights groups to brace for legal battles. The strategy may involve enforcing laws like the FACE Act and using racketeering laws against protest networks.