Elon Musk's Doge team seeks access to IRS data, sparking concern. Rep. Jimmy Gomez warns it's an 'illegal and blatant power grab.' The initiative involves one DOGE affiliate and an IRS staff. White House confirms strict confidentiality must be maintained, with sensitive data access receiving scrutiny. Concerns are raised about misuse during the current tax-filing period.
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Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned that Beijing will retaliate against US tariffs, accusing Washington of hostility despite China's cooperation on issues like America's fentanyl crisis. He also criticized President Trump's approach of placing US interests over international cooperation, warning it could destabilize global order and harm international relations.
A 17-year-old boy was arrested after breaching security at Avalon Airport and attempting to board a Jetstar flight with a loaded shotgun. Passengers, including Barry Clark, tackled the armed teenager, who wore a high-visibility vest. Authorities are investigating the breach, and the airport was temporarily closed.
In Honolulu, a large New Year's firework tipped over and caused an explosion, killing three people and injuring over 20 others. Authorities are investigating the incident and urging residents to stop using fireworks. Governor Josh Green and other officials emphasize the severe dangers of fireworks, with new penalties being considered to prevent future tragedies.
President-elect Donald Trump has called for Nato countries to increase their defense spending to 5% of their economic output, surpassing the current 2% target. Amidst rising geopolitical tensions, particularly with Russia, Nato is considering a new spending target of at least 3%. Trump also commented on Ukraine's potential Nato membership, highlighting Russia's long-standing opposition.
A Texas woman's $83.5 million lottery win is on hold as state officials investigate the Jackpocket app she used to buy her ticket. Despite complying with all rules, the winner has yet to receive her payout, raising concerns about the legality of lottery courier services.
Scientists are sending mouse sperm to space. They want to see if mammals can reproduce there. The sperm is stored on the International Space Station. It will return to Earth in 2025. Researchers will then study the sperm. This research will help humans live on the Moon and Mars. It may also help save species on Earth.
Vice President JD Vance faced backlash after supporting the rehiring of Marko Elez, a former DOGE staffer who resigned due to resurfaced racist posts. Vance argued past social media activity shouldn't ruin Elez's life, while Elon Musk also supported his return. Critics argue Elez showed a lack of professionalism for a government role. Vance implied that the issue got more attention than it should have as the 25-year-old is not a cabinet secretary.
Kamala Harris, after her electoral defeat, is exploring potential future political roles and has been consulting with Hillary Clinton. Harris is considering a 2028 presidential run or possibly the California governorship in 2026. Her 2024 loss poses a challenge, but she has yet to decide her path forward. Harris maintained loyalty to Biden throughout her campaign.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Monday welcomed indirect talks between the United States and Iran but insisted Europe would be "vigilant" its security concerns were taken into account. "We very much welcome this step, but we will be vigilant with our British and German friends and partners to ensure that any negotiations that may be undertaken are consistent with our security interests," Barrot said at a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg.
A festively decorated Ford Mustang, adorned with Christmas lights, caught the attention of the Wyoming Highway Patrol for violating state law regarding colored lights on vehicles. While white Christmas lights are permissible, red and blue are prohibited. The incident serves as a reminder about vehicle decoration laws and potential driving hazards.