• On today's episode: British lawmakers have begun debating whether to back a bill to help terminally ill adults end their lives in England and Wales; authorities in southern Mexico were still assessing damage and watching rising rivers as rain from the remnants of Hurricane Erick doused the region; Grammy-winning singer Chris Brown has pleaded not guilty to a charge related to the serious beating of a music producer with a bottle in a London nightclub in 2023; Suga, a rapper and songwriter in the global K-pop sensation BTS, has been discharged from South Korea’s mandatory military service, marking the official return of all seven members from their enlistment duties; and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada will impose new tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum imports on July 21 depending the progress of trade talks with U.S. President Donald Trump.
• Trump extends TikTok ban deadline for a third time, without clear legal basis.
• ICE agents asked to leave Dodger Stadium parking lot, team says.
• Trump has no timeline for a decision on Iran.
• Heat dome will blanket much of the US, with worrisome temperatures in Midwest.
• Juneteenth celebrations across the US commemorate the end of slavery.
• Hackers say they wiped out $90 million from Iran cryptocurrency exchange.
• Indiana routs Oklahoma City to force the NBA Finals’ first Game 7 since 2016, a major league pitcher is stretchered off the field, the world’s No. 1 and No. 73 golfers share the Travelers lead and multiple speeding tickets for a controversial young NFL QB.
• NFL widows struggled to care for ex-players with CTE. They say a new study minimizes their pain.
• Scheffler hits a perfect shot and plenty of great ones for a 62 to share lead at Travelers.
• Spain rejects NATO’s anticipated defense spending increase as 'unreasonable.'
• Europeans see a window for diplomacy as they meet Iran's top diplomat.
• Iranian missiles hit a hospital and wound over 200. Israel threatens Iran's top leader.
• Russia's economy minister says the country is on 'the brink of recession.'

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• On today's episode: President Donald Trump addresses whether the US could join Israel in its fight with Iran; Sen. Josh Hawley wants former President Joe Biden's use of an autopen reviewed; the AP reports the Buss family is selling a controlling stake of the Lakers; today is Juneteenth; and the NTSB has a report on May's small plane crash in San Diego.
• US resumes visas for foreign students but demands access to social media accounts.
• Supreme Court clears the way for temporary nuclear waste storage in Texas and New Mexico.
• Supreme Court work goes on with 16 cases to decide, including birthright citizenship.
• Supreme Court OKs Tennessee ban on gender-affirming care for kids, a setback for transgender rights.
• 'Nobody knows' Trump won't say whether he will move forward with US strikes on Iran.
• Hurricane Erick strengthens to a Category 2 storm as it nears Mexico's Pacific coast.
• Karen Read found not guilty of second-degree murder, guilty of drunken driving in boyfriend's death.
• NYC mayoral candidate is arrested at immigration court after linking arms with man being detained.
• Sean 'Diddy' Combs trial takes a day off due a juror's illness.
• Wall Street ends mixed after the Fed says it's still waiting to see the effects of Trump's tariffs.
• Federal Reserve leaves its key rate unchanged but sees two cuts this year.
• SpaceX rocket being tested in Texas explodes, but no injuries reported.
• Amazon hopes to deliver 10,000 robotaxis annually with new factory, challenging Waymo.
• Average long-term US mortgage rate eases to 6.81%, the third consecutive weekly decline.
• US unemployment claims dipped to 245,000 last week, hovering at historically low levels.
• FDA approves the world's only twice-a-year shot to prevent HIV.
• Deadly listeria outbreak linked to chicken alfredo fettucine sold at Kroger and Walmart.
• Tyrese Haliburton’s health up in the air as the Pacers face elimination against Thunder in NBA Finals, a controlling stake of 17-time champion Lakers is sold with record valuation, a multi-time Pro Bowl defensive back signs in Baltimore, the Yankees end a three-game stretch of futility, an AL East team is in talks for a sale and more. 
• Ex-NFL player Ramzee Robinson sues Chiefs for wrongful termination, racial discrimination.
• Cheerleaders can now go pro Varsity Spirit's new league offers pay.
• South Africa opens a new inquiry into apartheid-era killings known as Cradock Four.
• Princess of Wales pulls out of engagement at Royal Ascot.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• On today's episodes: US immigration authorities detain the family of the man charged in the Colorado attack; 50 nations — but not the US — have gathered to discuss aid for Ukraine; South Korea's new president plans to open talks with North Korea; Iran's supreme leader criticizes US proposal; and McDonald's is bringing back a popular menu item.
• Musk slams Trump's big tax bill as Republican senators race to meet a July 4th deadline.
• Trump administration revokes guidance requiring hospitals to provide emergency abortions.
• Kennedy has ordered a review of baby formula. Here's what you should know.
• Fed lifts restrictions placed on Wells Fargo in 2018 because of its fake-accounts scandal.
• FBI says it broke up effort to bring toxic fungus to Michigan lab from China.
• Meta becomes the latest big tech company turning to nuclear power for its AI needs.
• The iconic Goodyear Blimp is 100. To celebrate, a flight over Ohio.
• Closing arguments at Weinstein retrial A #Metoo 'poster boy' or a predator.
• Sean 'Diddy' Combs feared footage of him beating his girlfriend would ruin his career, witness says.
• Colorado attack defendant backed off plan to kill all in a group he called 'Zionist,' police say.
• Boulder suspect planned to kill group he called 'Zionist,' but appeared to have second thoughts
• Authorities are searching for a Washington state father of 3 dead girls.
• Wall Street rises again as US stocks pull closer to their records.
• US job openings rose unexpectedly in April, a sign the American labor market remains resilient.
• Bryce Harper makes a triumphant return for the Phillies, the Rockies snap a record streak of futility and a Diamondbacks ace lands on the injured list, the Knicks make a coaching change after their best season in 25 years, Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek inch closer to defending their French Open titles and more. 
• Knicks fire coach Tom Thibodeau after Eastern Conference finals trip, AP source says.
• College softball players are turning up the volume during the Women’s College World Series in Oklahoma City.
• World Boxing apologizes for naming Olympic champion Imane Khelif in sex test policy.
• South Korea’s main conservative candidate Kim Moon Soo concedes defeat in the presidential election.
• Gaza officials say Israeli forces killed 27 heading to aid site. Israel says it fired near suspects.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• In today's episode: The latest on potential nuclear talks with Iran, an executive order tied to the International Criminal Court, a missing plane and potential tariffs.
• Elon Musk uses his X ownership and White House position to push President Donald Trump's priorities, intimidate detractors.
• Trump administration plans to slash all but a fraction of USAID jobs, officials say.
• Trump tells prayer breakfast he wants to root out 'anti-Christian bias' and urges 'bring God back.'
• Trump blames 'obsolete' US air traffic control system for the plane and chopper collision near DC.
• 2nd federal judge in 2 days blocks Trump's birthright citizenship order.
• 12 states to sue over DOGE access to government payment systems containing personal data.
• Judge temporarily blocks Trump plan offering incentives for federal workers to resign.
• Senate confirms Project 2025 architect Russell Vought to lead powerful White House budget office.
• Newsom wants to speed up a delayed rule to make California homes more fire resistant.
• Bond set at $20M for man accused in shooting at Ohio warehouse that killed 2 and wounded 4.
• Freezing hikers stuck in waist-deep snow rescued during Mount Washington whiteout.
• Stock market today Wall Street finishes mixed as strong fashion, tobacco stocks offset Ford's drop.
• US applications for jobless benefits rose to 219,000 last week, but layoffs remain relatively low.
• Irv Gotti, music executive who created Murder Inc. Records, dies at 54.
• Antonio Gates, Jared Allen, Eric Allen and Sterling Sharpe make the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
• Josh Allen wins AP MVP at NFL Honors.
• NCAA changes transgender policy to limit women's competition to athletes assigned female at birth.
• UN Secretary General says Palestinians rights must be honored.
• Australia’s federal lawmakers advance hate crime laws almost unanimously.
• Bank of England halves UK growth projection and cuts main interest rate to 4.50%.
• Mexico deploys the first of 10,000 National Guard troops to US border after Trump's tariff threat.
• Philippine vice president preparing for impeachment battle but silent on option to resign.
• Rwanda-backed rebels tell residents of a captured eastern Congolese city they are safe.
• Ukraine says its long-range drones hit a Russian airfield as France delivers Mirage fighter jets.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• In today's episode: The latest on the status of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and President Donald Trump's plan for the territory, the deadline for federal workers to take a buyout has arrives and widening racial gap in deaths of mothers around the time of childbirth.
• Trump signs executive order intended to bar transgender athletes from girls' and women's sports.
• Trump’s demand that US aid workers return home sparks outrage in Washington and anxiety overseas.
• USAID workers scramble for answers after Trump pulls almost all of them off the job worldwide.
• US officials now say Trump only wants to displace Palestinians from Gaza temporarily.
• Nonprofit's lawsuit over the federal funding freeze is part of an 'avalanche' of litigation.
• West Point shuts down clubs based on gender, race and ethnicity in response to Trump's DEI policies.
• Second type of bird flu detected in US dairy cows.
• Trump’s birthright citizenship order gets put on hold by 2nd federal judge.
• Thousands protest Trump administration policies in cities across the US.
• Is it real or is it a trick Federal workers debate legitimacy of buyout offer as deadline nears.
• Pam Bondi is sworn in as attorney general as the Justice Department braces for major shakeup.
• Black church in DC that was vandalized by the Proud Boys gains control over the group's trademark.
• Boy who protected sister from plane crash debris is making 'miraculous' recovery.
• California's insurance crisis leaves neighbors facing unequal recovery after wildfires.
• Wisconsin couple sues Walgreens and Optum Rx, saying son died after $500 price rise for asthma meds.
• Suspect arrested in fatal shooting at a cosmetics warehouse in Ohio, officials say.
• Stock market today Most of Wall Street rises as earnings reporting season ramps up.
• Fast fashion, laptops and toys are likely to cost more due to US tariffs on Chinese imports.
• USPS lifts suspension of parcels from Hong Kong and China, reversing decision from a day earlier.
• Super Bowl secondary-ticket prices high but much less than last year's game.
• Pete Alonso stays with Mets, agreeing to $54 million, 2-year contract, AP source says.
• Jimmy Butler is headed to the Golden State Warriors, Andrew Wiggins to Miami Heat, AP source says.
• Bucks are adding Kyle Kuzma and sending Khris Middleton to the Wizards in a trade, AP source says.
• Players' union boss Lloyd Howell 'No one wants to play an 18th game' in regular season.
• Rahim Al-Hussaini is named the new Aga Khan, spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• In today's episode: Iran’s government seems to be welcoming decisions by the United States, federal workers plan protests, Palestinians push back on President Donald Trump's offer to take over Gaza, and an organizst celebrates Bach.
• Elon Musk tightens grip on federal government as Democrats raise alarms.
• USAID direct hires put on leave worldwide, except those deemed essential.
• FBI agents sue over Justice Dept. effort to ID employees involved in Trump-related investigations.
• First military flight to send migrants to Guantanamo Bay is set to depart, official says.
• Trump says he's exploring option to send jailed US criminals to other countries.
• Trump says he's given advisers instructions for Iran to be 'obliterated' if it assassinates him.
• RFK Jr. appears on track to become US health secretary as he wins key Republican senator's support.
• Designs unveiled for replacement of Baltimore bridge almost a year after deadly collapse.
• Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin mimics the moon's gravity for NASA experiments during spaceflight.
• Stock market today Calm returns to Wall Street, and tech stocks lead US indexes higher.
• US job openings fall to 7.6 million in December, suggesting the job market is slowing but healthy.
• The man charged with stabbing Salman Rushdie is going on trial. The author will take the stand.
• Lawyers for Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni get a reality check from federal judge.
• Joel Embiid dominates for the 76ers in a return from injury, Luka Doncic speaks for first time since his trade to Lakers, Chiefs coach Andy Reid plans to stick around after Super Bowl LIX, a multi-time major winner in tennis retires, the mother of an iconic golfer dies and more. 
• Sweden's worst mass shooting leaves at least 11 dead, 5 seriously wounded at adult education center;
• The Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the world's Ismaili Muslims, has died at age 88;
• As quakes rattle Greek islands, a few brave tourists enjoy having Santorini to themselves;

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• On this episode we have the latest on tariffs placed on China, Canada and Mexico as well as China's retalitory tariffs against the US; details on Super Bowl secruty; and a new job for the UN's former chief.
• Trump administration opens antisemitism inquiries at 5 colleges including Columbia and Berkeley.
• Trump and Netanyahu hold talks as US president warns 'no guarantees' fragile peace in Gaza will hold.
• Trump and Musk move to dismantle USAID, igniting battle with Democratic lawmakers.
• Elon Musk says President Donald Trump has 'agreed' USAID should be shut down.
• Association representing thousands of FBI agents appeals to Congress to protect their jobs.
• Rubio views a deportation flight in Panama as Trump prioritizes an immigration crackdown.
• New York shields abortion pill prescribers after a doctor was indicted in Louisiana.
• Salvage crews remove large portion of commercial jet from river after deadly air collision near DC.
• Transportation secretary says 'expansive' impact zone was left by Philadelphia medical plane crash.
• Lawsuit alleges first deaths from disastrous 2023 train derailment in Ohio.
• Wall Street falls following Trump's tariffs, but not as badly as feared in the morning.
• NFL emails reveal extent of Saints' damage control for clergy sex abuse crisis.
• Cleveland Browns star Myles Garrett requests to be traded so he can have chance at Super Bowl.
• Longtime FSU coach Leonard Hamilton is stepping down 'with no regrets' at the end of the season.
• Umpire Pat Hoberg fired by MLB for sharing sports gambling accounts with friend who bet on baseball.
• At least 6 injured in attack in Israel-occupied West Bank; assailant is killed.
• Film director found guilty of sexual assault in France’s first big #MeToo trial.
• Gangs attack a neighborhood in Haiti that's home to the country's elite.
• Indonesia sends home an ailing French national on death row.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• The future of the US Agency of International Development, remains of 55 people have been recovered from the site of a jet crash in Washington, Beyoncé wins album of the year at the Grammy Awards and international updates.
• Rubio says Panama must reduce Chinese influence around the canal area or face possible US action.
• Trump administration moving to fire FBI agents involved in investigations of Trump, AP sources say.
• Trump fires the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
• US military conducts airstrikes against Islamic State operatives in Somalia.
• Democrats elect Ken Martin, the party leader in Minnesota, as national chair.
• WHO chief asks countries to push Washington to reconsider its withdrawal.
• Venezuela frees 6 Americans after meeting between President Maduro and Trump's envoy.
• Israel's Netanyahu heads to US to discuss 'victory over Hamas' with Trump.
• Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, handlers say, predicting 6 more weeks of wintry weather.
• Mayor says 5 injured in fatal Philadelphia plane crash remain hospitalized, 3 in critical condition.
• Data from the deadliest U.S. air accident in a generation show conflicting altitude readings.
• Recovery crews return to the Potomac debris after the deadly plane and helicopter crash.
• Mexico's president says all 6 people on medical transport jet were killed.
• Identity thief whose deception led to his victim’s incarceration gets a 12-year prison term.
• Stock market today Wall Street surrenders gains after White House confirms Trump tariff move.
• Costco, Teamsters reach tentative contract agreement, avoiding a strike.
• Beyoncé wins album of the year at the 2025 Grammys for 'Cowboy Carter.'
• Dallas loses big after shocking trade of NBA superstar, the Kings, Spurs and Bulls pull off another blockbuster hoops swap, the NFC continues its dominance of the AFC at the Pro Bowl Games, Ohio State loses its offensive coordinator to the NFL and Rory McIlroy pulls away to win at Pebble Beach. 

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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Each week Hot off the Wire looks at a variety of stories in business, science, health and more. This week's headlines include:

• Egg prices are soaring. Don't expect that to change anytime soon.
• From avocados to autos, Trump tariffs on Canada and Mexico could hit close to home.
• Black History Month explained its origins, celebrations and myths.
• About half of Americans approve of using weight-loss drugs to treat obesity, AP-NORC poll finds.
• As small businesses face fire devastation and try to get back on their feet, a variety of aid exists.
• This year's hottest Super Bowl ticket Advertising space, Fox says.
• Take it from locals Super experience in New Orleans entails more than just the French Quarter. The AP's Stephen Smith reports.
• NFL players suffered fewest concussions in a season in 2024 since league began tracking 9 years ago.
• RFK Jr. kept asking to see the science that vaccines were safe. After he saw it, he dismissed it.
• New report outlines risks of artificial intelligence in early stages.
• US children fall further behind in reading, make little improvement in math on national exam.
• Some artists lost their life’s work in LA wildfires. Fellow artists are helping them recover.
• Independently funded jet's sound barrier mark revives talk of commercial supersonic travel.
• Study projects millions of European heat deaths as world warms.
• A New Zealand mountain is granted personhood, recognizing it as sacred for Māori.
• Theft in Netherlands of ancient golden helmet leaves Romania distraught.
• No, Spain isn't banning tourists. Here’s what to know before planning a trip.
• Hong Kong's snake soup is slithering away but still simmers in a decades-old kitchen.
• Tiger poachers use fishing boats to smuggle body parts out of Malaysia, study shows.
• On this week's AP Religion Roundup, a sacred mountain receives personhood status, and a deadly stampede kills dozens at the world's largest religious gathering.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• A deadly midair collision between an American Airlines jet and an Army helicopter near the nation's capital is bringing renewed focus on the federal agency charged with investigating aviation disasters.
• Green Day and Billie Eilish kicked off the massive FireAid benefit concert, a two-venue concert extravaganza that is raising money for Los Angeles-area wildfire relief efforts. 
• President Donald Trump's FBI chief pick, Kash Patel, insists he has no 'enemies list' and won't seek retribution.
• NASA's 2 stuck astronauts take their first spacewalk together.
• FDA approves painkiller designed to eliminate the risk of addiction associated with opioids.
• Civil rights activists call for a Target boycott after retailer backs away from diversity programs.
• Justice Department sues to block $14 billion Juniper buyout by Hewlett Packard Enterprise.
• Stock market today Tesla, IBM and Meta lead most of Wall Street higher.
• U.S. economy grows solid 2.3% in October-December on eve of Trump return to White House, 2.8% in '24.
• Patti Smith apologizes for canceling show after collapsing onstage in Brazil.
• Marianne Faithfull, singer and pop icon, dies at 78.
• Rihanna appears at trial of A$AP Rocky and outshines key testimony on alleged shooting.
• A newly-minted All-Star leads basketball’s top team to another win, a former No. 1 pick is one of a handful of first-time NBA All-Stars, a multi-time Cy Young winner takes his talents north of the border, the world’s top golfer returns to action and figure skating has lost an icon at the age of 95. 
• Unusual betting patterns surrounding play of Terry Rozier in 2023 game with Charlotte investigated.
• NFL says it will look into allegations by massage therapists about Justin Tucker's behavior.
• 5 years after Britain left the EU, the full impact of Brexit is still emerging.
• Israel's ban on UN's Palestinian aid agency has come into effect. Here's what that looks like.
• Families in India cremate loved ones killed in stampede at religious festival.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

• In today's episodes: A jet with 60 passengers and four crew members aboard collided with an Army helicopter while landing at Ronald Reagan National Airport near Washington, the latest on Hamas releasing Israeli hostages, White House cabinet confirmations and a large salmon donation to a food bank.
• Pentagon agency pauses celebrations for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Black History Month and more.
• At signing of Laken Riley Act, Trump says he plans to send migrants in US illegally to Guantanamo.
• Trump White House rescinds order freezing federal grants after widespread confusion.
• Robert F. Kennedy Jr. struggles to answer questions on Medicare and Medicaid at confirmation hearing.
• From anti-vaccine advocacy to raw milk, many of RFK Jr.'s views fall outside the mainstream.
• Trump's Commerce Secretary nominee, Howard Lutnick, vows to sell his business interests in 90 days.
• President Donald Trump appeals his New York hush money conviction.
• Ex-New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez sentenced to 11 years in prison for bribery conviction.
• Ailing Harvey Weinstein begs to have #MeToo retrial sooner after judge sets April 15 date.
• A South Florida luxury condo project is planned for site where building collapse killed 98 people.
• Stock market today Wall Street slips after the Federal Reserve keeps interest rates steady
• Fed hold rates steady, says job market is 'solid' while inflation 'remains somewhat elevated.'
• Frontier makes a second bid for Spirit with budget airlines struggling.
• Wegmans recalls frozen chicken nuggets due to possible bone fragments.
• Jalen Brunson powers the Knicks to a big home win over the Nuggets, Anthony Davis will miss at least a week with his latest injury, Caitlin Clark turns down NBA’s All-Star invite, Auburn and Alabama get wins on the hardwood and an All-Star reliever inks a new deal in baseball.
• Ohio State quality control coach placed on leave amid university investigation.
• Fan hurt while celebrating Philadelphia Eagles win dies from his injuries.
• Europe's economy showed zero growth at end of 2024 as eurozone's biggest economy Germany struggled.
• A Russian drone strikes an apartment building in Ukraine, killing at least 4.
• Israeli drone strike wounds five people in southern Lebanon.
• Leader of rebels who toppled Syrian President Bashar Assad is named country's interim president.
• ECOWAS pledges to 'keep door open' after 3 coup-hit West African nations exit regional bloc.
• Severe flooding hits western France again amid storm Ivo.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• Today's episode is led with family opposition to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. joining President Donald Trump's cabinet, an immigration bill in Florida, Lunar New Year and more.
• Trump offers all federal workers a buyout with 8 months' pay in effort to shrink size of government.
• Groups are ready to file the first lawsuit to challenge Trump's new order on transgender troops.
• The Secretary of State is exempting more programs from the Trump administration's freeze on foreign aid.
• Trump fires two Democratic commissioners of agency that enforces civil rights laws in the workplace.
• Defense secretary pulls Trump critic Gen. Milley's security clearance and protective detail.
• Deportation flights from the US to Colombia resume after a diplomatic spat.
• Head Start and Medicaid providers hit glitches as Trump freezes federal money.
• Michigan Democratic Sen. Gary Peters will not run for reelection, opening a key Senate seat in 2026.
• 'Doomsday Clock' moves closer to midnight amid threats of climate change, nuclear war, pandemics, AI.
• Following a school shooting in Nasvhille, students are pushing for better safety as they begin to return to school.
• Norfolk Southern and East Palestine announce $22 million settlement after 2023 derailment.
• Stock market today Nvidia and other tech stocks win back some of Monday's sharp losses.
• Coca-Cola issues safety recall of soft drinks in Europe over chemical chlorate concerns.
• Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni get March 2026 trial date for her 'It Ends With Us' lawsuit.
• Tyrese Maxey puts on a show to help shorthanded 76ers top the Lakers, Los Angeles star Anthony Davis suffers another injury, WNBA icon Brittney Griner is set to join a new team, a handful of NFL stars plan to skip the Pro Bowl, and teams bolster their staffs with former head coaches.
• Jake, Logan Paul suggest their next fight is against each other on HBO Max.
• Warriors to retire Andre Iguodala's No. 9 jersey.
• Auschwitz memorial holds observances on the 80th anniversary of the death camp's liberation.
• Macron announces a major overhaul to modernize Louvre and a dedicated room for the Mona Lisa.
• Several people are feared dead in a stampede at the massive Maha Kumbh festival in India.
• Congo tries to slow the assault of Rwanda-backed rebels amid reports of dead bodies in the streets.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

Theme music

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• On this episode we look at the latest on President Donald Trump's executive orders and agenda, GOP unity, General Motors earnings and Denmark's response to Trump's desires to acquire Greenland.
• Elected officials push back against Trump's immigration crackdown.
• CDC ordered to stop working with WHO immediately, upending expectations of an extended withdrawal.
• Portland, Oregon church leaders pledge solidarity with immigrants.
• Indiana man pardoned by Trump is fatally shot during traffic stop.
• Supreme Court leaves in place Mississippi’s voting bar for people convicted of some crimes.
• Snow briefly closes major interstate north of LA as needed rain douses California fires.
• Earthquake rattles houses in Maine and is felt hundreds of miles away.
• Federal Reserve expected to stand pat on rates even as Trump demands cuts.
• Tech stocks tank as a Chinese competitor threatens to upend the AI frenzy; Nvidia sinks nearly 17%.
• Global shares are mixed after a US tech selloff as a Chinese rival joins the global AI frenzy.
• Investor seeks to quash US Steel-Nippon deal after taking stake in US steelmaker.
• Super Bowl footballs are ready to go within hours of the matchup being set.
• A buzzer beater makes the difference in a clash of top NBA teams, an embattled NBA All-Star draws another team suspension, an upset and overtime thriller and another big game for college basketball’s top star, and updates on the futures of a star quarterback in New York and longtime coach in Pittsburgh. 
• Brian Schottenheimer says he's 'ready' to coach Cowboys after long career as NFL assistant.
• Florida coach Todd Golden cleared in Title IX investigation regarding sexual harassment allegations.
• Auburn, Duke top men's AP Top 25, Texas Tech, Vanderbilt make poll debuts; UConn tumbles to No. 25.
• 2 killed in southern Lebanon as protests against Israeli presence erupt for a second day.
• A Bulgarian shipping company denies its vessel sabotaged a Baltic Sea cable.
• Dubai's ceaseless boom is putting strains on its residents.
• What is happening in eastern Congo, where rebels claim they captured a key city.
• What to expect after South Korean president's indictment on rebellion charges.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• On today's episode: A liberal candidate is expected to become South Korea's next president; Poland's prime minister sets a confidence vote on his government; the latest on an attack in Colorado; and police in Portugal will start a new search where toddler Madeleine McCann disappeared in 2007.
• US growth likely to slow to 1.6% this year, hobbled by Trump's trade wars, OECD says.
• Trump pardons 2 divers who freed 19 sharks off the coast of Florida.
• Newark airport runway project wraps up early, so when will flight limits ease.
• Supreme Court to hear private prison company appeal in suit over immigration detainee $1-a-day wages.
• Supreme Court won't hear challenge to Maryland assault weapons ban.
• Trump asks the Supreme Court to clear the way for federal downsizing plans.
• ICE chief defends agents' use of masks, decries sanctuary jurisdictions.
• To prevent blackouts, Trump administration keeps an aging power plant online through summer.
• A colossal cloud of Sahara dust is smothering the Caribbean en route to the US.
• All international travelers should get measles vaccinations, CDC says.
• 'King of the Hill' voice actor Jonathan Joss fatally shot outside his Texas home.
• Stabbing attack at homeless shelter sends 11 people to hospital, man in custody.
• Sean 'Diddy' Combs' ex-aide says she was 'brainwashed' when she sent loving texts years after rape.
• Harvey Weinstein doesn't plan to testify at sex crimes retrial.
• Stabbing attack at homeless shelter sends 11 people to hospital, man in custody.
• Wall Street drifts higher as oil prices jump and US manufacturing slumps.
• Mike Trout turns back the clock with a big night at the plate, one of baseball’s top prospects is promoted, a 24-time Grand Slam winner makes French Open history as two American women advance, a Stanley Cup Final-bound star earns two major NHL awards, a new Madden cover athlete and more.
• Another runaway victory has a 24-time Grand Slam winner well on his way to a fourth French Open crown.
• Ukraine's drone attack on Russian warplanes was a serious blow to the Kremlin's strategic arsenal.
• Gaza officials say Israeli forces killed 27 heading to aid site. Israel says it fired near suspects.
• Sicily's Mount Etna erupts in a fiery show of smoke and ash miles high.
• China blasts US for its computer chip moves and for threatening student visas.
• Ukraine and Russia end their latest round of direct peace talks in Istanbul.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• President Donald Trump claims a victory in a showdown with Colombia, the latest in hte Middle East, and the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs will meet once again in the Super Bowl.
• Acting deputy AG visits Chicago to 'observe' immigration enforcement crackdown.
• Haitian migrants in Springfield, Ohio, turn to faith amid deportation fears.
• Trump wants Jordan and Egypt to accept more Palestinian refugees and floats plan to 'clean out' Gaza.
• Trump leans into his pledge to eliminate taxes on tips at a Las Vegas rally.
• Trump uses mass firing to remove independent inspectors general at a series of agencies.
• Senate confirms Noem as Trump's homeland security secretary.
• Pete Hegseth was sworn in Saturday as the nation's 29th secretary of defense.
• Many Alaskans say they'll never call Denali Mount McKinley.
• Supreme Court will weigh approval for US’ 1st publicly funded religious charter school, in Oklahoma.
• The CIA believes COVID most likely originated from a lab but has low confidence in its own finding.
• Judge bars Oath Keepers founder Rhodes from entering Washington without court's permission.
• Southern California rain helps firefighters but creates risk of flooding and toxic ash runoff.
• Minnesota high court sides with Democrats in struggle with Republicans over control of state House.
• Auschwitz memorial holds observances on the 80th anniversary of the death camp's liberation.
• People are hawking TikTok-loaded phones for thousands on eBay, Facebook.
• Some 70 people killed in attack on hospital in Sudan's Darfur region, WHO chief says.
• The Chiefs are one win away from a three-peat after holding off the Bills in the AFC Championship Game, the Eagles rout the Commanders in the NFC title game to set up a 2023 Super Bowl rematch, a repeat men’s winner at the Australian Open and a notable trade in baseball. 

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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Each week Hot off the Wire looks at a variety of stories in business, science, health and more. This week's headlines include:

• What Americans think about Trump and Musk's plans for the federal government AP-NORC poll.
• US adults want border security action but mostly oppose arrests in schools, churches AP-NORC poll.
• The tax deadline for some small businesses affected by disasters in 2024 is drawing near.
• Rosy December for small business sales, but restaurants are left out.
• Chemicals in sewage sludge fertilizer pose cancer risk, EPA says.
• Scientists sense 'chirping' chorus waves near Earth in an unexpected place.
• Pandas are back; 'Washington, D.C., is no longer unbearable!.'
• Mittens the cat becomes an accidental frequent flyer after getting mistakenly left on a plane.
• Sunfish that got sick after aquarium closed has recovered — thanks to human cutouts.
• A blooming plant that reeks of gym socks and rotting garbage has thousands lining up for a whiff.
• On Farmtok, agriculture gets its moment in the spotlight. What would it mean if that disappeared.
• Ancient DNA suggests women were at the heart of social networks in Celtic society in Britain.
• Obesity won't be solely defined by BMI under new plan for diagnosis by global experts.
• Brownstone from 'Sex and The City' getting gate due to tourists.
• On this week's AP Religion Roundup, President Trump demands an apology after an inaugural prayer service, and faith leaders react to an immigration crackdown.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• The latest on President Donald Trump's crackdown at the US-Mexico border, the Sackler family settles over the opioid crisis, and an emergency contraception pill could be an alternative for abortions.
• Senate advances Pete Hegseth as Trump's defense secretary, despite allegations against him.
• Trump revokes protections for former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and top Iran aide.
• Experts worry that Trump's Jan. 6 pardons will legitimize political violence, embolden extremists.
• A federal judge temporarily blocks Trump’s executive order ending birthright citizenship.
• Immigration detention beds may be maxed out as Trump moves to deport 'millions and millions.'
• California will spend $2.5 billion to help the Los Angeles area recover from wildfires.
• Southern cities get creative to clear leftover snow and ice after rare winter storm.
• Stock market today S&P 500 climbs to a record.
• Average rate on 30-year mortgage slips below 7% after climbing five weeks in a row.
• More Americans file for unemployment benefits last week, continuing claims highest in 3 years.
• Costco successfully defends its diversity policies as other US companies scale theirs back.
• A golden spike that completed the Alaska Railroad is up for auction. Alaskans want to bring it home.
• 'Emilia Pérez' leads Oscar nominations with 13, setting record for a non-English language film.
• A$AP Rocky assault trial soon heads to opening statements as a jury is seated.
• Lawsuit says ex-Yankee Mariano Rivera failed to protect a girl from sexual abuse at a church camp.
• Recording captured ex-interpreter impersonating Ohtani to transfer $200,000, prosecutors say.
• A French basketball star dominates in his return to Paris, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer extends his record for All-Star Game selections, four quarterbacks and a running back are named NFL MVP finalists, an All-Star free agent slugger signs in baseball and more.
• Djokovic quits mid-match and walks off to boos, putting Zverev in Australian Open final vs. Sinner.
• Australian Open Madison Keys upsets Iga Swiatek and will face Aryna Sabalenka in the final.
• Italy's top court upholds Amanda Knox's conviction for falsely accusing innocent man of murder.
• AP correspondent Karen Chammas reports on Mexican migrants hoping to reach the US, adapting to a new reality; Palestinians newly freed from Israeli prisons are worried about their futures; North Korea may be sending more troops to Russia; and a storm batters Scotland and Ireland.
• Teen who killed 3 girls at Taylor Swift-themed dance class in England sentenced to over 50 years.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• Firefighters continue to battle wildfires around Los Angeles as discussions about recovery aid continue; Stewart Rhodes returns to the Capitol after his release from prison; there was a shooting in San Antonio; and Saudi Arabia plans to invest in the U.S.
• Trump's perceived enemies worry about losing pensions, getting audited and paying steep legal bills.
• Trump to meet with more Republicans as they hash out legislative roadmap.
• Justice Department directs prosecutors to probe local efforts to obstruct immigration enforcement.
• Pentagon to send up to 1,500 active duty troops to help secure US-Mexico border, officials say.
• Trump administration cancels travel for refugees already cleared to resettle in the US.
• Sagar Meghani reports President Trump's threat of penalties on Russia if it doesn't negotiate an end to the Ukraine war may fall on deaf ears.
• Trump demands an apology from bishop who asked him to ‘have mercy’ on LGBTQ+ people and migrants.
• Border Patrol agent killed in Vermont worked at the Pentagon during 911, family says.
• Teen fatally shoots a female student and himself at Antioch High School in Nashville, police say.
• Julie Walker reports on rare and historic snow falling in the Gulf States from Texas all the way to the Florida Panhandle.
• Kate Payne reports from Florida's capital on the rare snow day kids and their parents are getting to experience in the Sunshine State.
• Stock market today Netflix and AI excitement send Wall Street to the brink of an all-time high.
• George Clinton, The Doobie Brothers, Mike Love and more get into Songwriters Hall of Fame.
• An unlikely hero saves the Timberwolves in a meeting with the Mavericks, a disgruntled All-Star is suspended by his team once again, NFL news includes the Jets picking a former player as their new head coach. 

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• Stewart Rhodes speaks out after he and others were pardoned by President Donald Trump, the future of federal diversity, equity and inclusion programs, weather updates and TV ratings for the inauguration.
• US throws out policies limiting arrests of migrants at sensitive locations like schools, churches.
• Sagar Meghani reports President Trump heard a plea at a church service wrapping up four days of inauguration-related events.
• Haya Panjwani reports on states suing the Trump administration over order blocking birthright citizenship.
• Marissa Duhaney reports on President Donald Trump demonstrating one of his favored expressions of power firing people.
• Trump moves to suspend clearances of ex-intel officials who signed letter on Hunter Biden laptop.
• Trump White House celebrates release of two Americans freed in a swap with Taliban brokered by Biden.
• 'Orchestrated attack' on Portland elections office shatters dozens of windows, police say.
• The ash left behind by the Los Angeles wildfires might be toxic, experts warn.
• Winds picking up in Southern California and at least 2 new fires break out.
• A rare frigid storm brings heavy snow, sleet and ice to Texas and the northern Gulf Coast.
• 15 Stock market today Wall Street begins Trump's second term with gains.
• Baseball’s newest Hall of Fame class is announced, the Vikings re-sign their coach, the Cowboys look within in their head coaching search, national champion Ohio State loses a quarterback to the transfer portal, an NBA trade and a marquee matchup at the Australian Open. 
• Witnesses at a Turkish ski resort stood helpless as people leaped out of a burning hotel.
• A sample from a remote Tanzanian region tests positive for Marburg disease, confirming WHO fears.
• Dozens of firms pull ads from Japanese network over sex scandal linked to its staff and celebrity.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• President Donald Trump has a busy first day in office, a border patrol officer is killed in Vermont, the latest from the Middle East and former Vice President Kamala Harris returns to California and the wildfires.
• Sequel to Prince Harry's feud with British tabloids begins in high-stakes trial.
• Trump suspends US foreign assistance for 90 days pending reviews.
• Canada relieved Trump doesn't impose tariffs on the major American trading partner on the first day.
• Trump seeks to remake border security but his efforts will face challenges.
• Do US adults support Trump's agenda Here's what an AP-NORC poll shows.
• Former President Joe Biden says farewell at Joint Base Andrews.
• Just minutes before he leaves office, Biden pardons his siblings and their spouses.
• Man accused of starting fire at Congressman's office motivated by TikTok ban, police say.
• Sting, Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish and the Red Hot Chili Peppers to perform at FireAid benefit concert.
• Ohio State wins its second national title of the CFP era over Notre Dame, the top NFL coaching candidate comes off the board, the Celtics beat the Warriors in historic fashion, an All-Star free agent signs in baseball and one of hockey’s top stars is suspended.
• Hundreds of dead sea turtles are washing ashore on India's coast.
• Thailand gears up for a celebration as a long-awaited marriage equality law takes effect.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• Outgoing President Joe Biden issues a final set of pardons to protect against potential retribution from incoming President Donald Trump.
• The Chinese president's envoy meets with Vance and Musk on the eve of Trump's inauguration.
• Chicago prepares for deportation arrests targeting hundreds next week after Trump takes office.
• TikTok says it's in the process of restoring service to US users.
• Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted will succeed JD Vance in the US Senate.
• Biden says the Equal Rights Amendment should be considered ratified.
• Biden task force calls for more training and money to avoid the mishandling of classified documents.
• Florida jury says CNN defamed Navy veteran in story about endangered Afghans.
• Why are lone homes left standing after the fires It's not entirely luck.
• Ozempic, Wegovy and other new drugs are selected for Medicare's price negotiations.
• A big day for Saquon Barkley sends the Eagles into the NFC Championship Game against the Commanders, Josh Allen outduels Lamar Jackson to punch the Bills’ ticket to the AFC title game versus the Chiefs, Paige Bueckers makes history at UConn and a former major leaguer dies. 
• LA's Olympic venues were spared by wildfires, but the city's rebuild could impact the Games' runup.
• As college sports move toward pay for play, Title IX looms as another hurdle for the NCAA.
• Tony Award-winning British actor Joan Plowright, widow of Laurence Olivier, dies at 95.
• On this week's AP Religion Roundup, Pope Francis releases his autobiography, and hundreds of millions gather for the world’s largest religious festival.
• Blessings for dogs Bring them to Mexico City's cathedral and St. Anthony will do the rest.
• Karen Chammas reports on Israeli hostages reuniting with loved ones in hospital, and Palestinians in the West Bank cheering as Israel releases dozens from prison, and sound of Colombian military helicopters evacuating citizens.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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In this episode of The Story Behind the AP Story, hear from AP Washington radio correspondent, Sagar Meghani and White House correspondent Darlene Superville. They'll help us peel back the curtain and share what we can expect during a presidential inauguration.

And in other inauguration news:

• Trump swearing-in will move inside Capitol Rotunda because of intense cold.
• Biden got an Oval Office letter from Trump and may leave one in the desk himself. It’d be a first.
• Michelle Obama will skip Trump inauguration, but ex-Presidents Obama, Clinton and Bush will be there.
• Carrie Underwood, Village People to perform at Trump's inauguration events.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

• Biden sets record by commuting sentences of nearly 2,500 people convicted on nonviolent drug charges.
• Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, official says, leaving fate of app to Trump.
• Former Vice President Pence calls on Trump to renew US support for Taiwan.
• Many Americans doubt Trump will be able to lower prices in his first year, an AP-NORC poll shows.
• Giuliani settles legal fight with former Georgia election workers, agrees to stop defaming them.
• Texas judge says states can revive challenge to abortion pill access nationwide.
• Ash and other dangers mean LA area residents who fled fires a week ago won't be going home soon.
• FDA OKs sales of Zyn nicotine pouches, citing health benefits for adult smokers.
• NASA's stuck astronaut steps out on a spacewalk after 7 months in orbit.
• Stock market today Wall Street drifts lower as momentum slows for US stocks.
• US retail sales rose modestly last month amid solid holiday shopping, boosting economy.
• Average rate on 30-year mortgage hits 7% after 5th straight increase, now highest level since May.
• American Express agrees to pay more than $138M to resolve investigation into sales and marketing.
• Eager visitors flock to see spectacular lava fountaining from Kilauea eruption in Hawaii.
• American accused of assaulting a Pennsylvania student is extradited from France to the US.
• College students charged in TikTok-inspired 'catch a predator' plot appear in court.
• Sting, Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish and the Red Hot Chili Peppers to perform at FireAid Benefit Concert.
• Conan O'Brien will receive the Mark Twain Prize for lifetime achievement in comedy.
• David Lynch, visionary filmmaker behind 'Twin Peaks' and 'Mulholland Drive,' dies at 78.
• 'Mr. Baseball' Bob Uecker, Brewers announcer, dies at 90.
• PGA Tour to move Genesis Invitational out of Riviera. New venue to be determined.
• Jets' Aaron Rodgers remains undecided on playing future with his focus on the California wildfires.
• Netanyahu says deal to release hostages held in Gaza has been reached after last minute snags.
• Pakistani court sentences ex-PM Imran Khan and his wife to 14 and 7 years in prison in graft case.
• South Korean court rejects petition to release impeached president detained over martial law.
• Pope Francis hurts his right arm after falling for the second time in just over a month.
• 3 lawyers for the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny are jailed by a Russian court.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• Biden warns of dangers of 'oligarchy' of ultra-rich, 'tech-industrial complex' running country.
• Trump adviser says president-elect is exploring options to 'preserve' TikTok.
• Trump and Biden both claim credit for Gaza ceasefire deal.
• Trump's outsider Cabinet picks are rapidly gaining support for confirmation.
• Transportation secretary pick vows to buck any pressure to help Elon Musk in agency probes of Tesla.
• Bondi in her confirmation hearing says Trump was 'targeted' by Justice Department investigations.
• Democratic attorneys general ask to defend health access for 'Dreamers' since Trump probably won't.
• Speaker Johnson removes chair of powerful House Intelligence Committee.
• Vivek Ramaswamy, an Ohio native, is interested in filling Vance's old Senate seat, AP source says.
• Biden announces 2 new national monuments in California after wildfires scuttled previous event.
• Kid Rock, Jason Aldean to perform during Trump's Inauguration weekend.
• As flames linger, talk turns to rebuilding Los Angeles neighborhoods leveled by wildfires.
• For LA water issues, misinformation spreads nearly as fast as the wildfires.
• Stock market today: Wall Street rips higher after inflation data and strong bank profits.
• US recovers $31 million in Social Security payments to dead people.
• US population projections shrink from last year because of declining birth rates, less immigration.
• US government sues Southwest Airlines and fines Frontier for chronically delayed flights.
• FDA bans red dye No. 3 from foods.
• US inflation picked up in December, though underlying price pressures ease slightly.
• Two former NFL head coaches interview for openings, a Ravens star NFL wideout is in doubt for this weekend, a top college quarterback is going pro, new compensation for women’s college basketball teams and more.
• 'Conclave' leads race for British BAFTA awards, one more than 'Emilia Perez.'
• 'Last minute crisis' in ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas; UK Prime minister pledges a century of help to Ukraine; South Korea's impeached President refuses questioning; AP correspondent Karen Chammas reports.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• On today's episode: A man with a makeshift flamethrower attacked a group of people in Boulder, Colorado, calling for the release of Israeli hostages; Russia and Ukraine will continue peace talks despite new drone attacks; Poland has a new president; South Korea will hold a presidential election; and a look at the NBA Finals.
• US Senators warn Russia, as it continues it's war with Ukraine.
• Trump says he's withdrawing the nomination of Musk associate Jared Isaacman to lead NASA.
• Ernst draws groans at Iowa town hall after retort on Medicaid cuts, saying 'we all are going to die.'
• Turmoil, worry swirl over cuts to key federal agencies as hurricane season begins.
• FDA approves Moderna's new lower-dose COVID-19 vaccine.
• Trump fast-tracks Utah uranium mine, but industry revival may wait for higher prices.
• Kristi Noem said an immigrant threatened to kill Trump. The story quickly fell apart.
• President Donald Trump says he's once again raising tariffs on steel.
• Biden says he's 'feeling good' in first remarks after cancer diagnosis announced.
• Trump's list of 'sanctuary jurisdictions' includes some that support his immigration policies.
• Trump gives Elon Musk an Oval Office sendoff, crediting him with 'colossal change.'
• 1 officer killed, 1 wounded and another person dead in Los Angeles County shooting.
• Wildfires burning across central Canada force more people to evacuate.
• Philadelphia kicks off Pride Month with flag raising.
• Inmates clear tornado damage to free Oklahoma family stuck for over a week.
• Dozens sickened in expanding salmonella outbreak linked to recalled cucumbers.
• Wall Street glides to the end of its best month since 2023.
• Actor Valerie Mahaffey, 'Northern Exposure' Emmy winner, dies after cancer battle, publicist says.
• Loretta Swit, Emmy-winner who played Maj. Houlihan on pioneering series 'M.A.S.H.,' has died at 87.
• Sean 'Diddy' Combs' lawyers say ex-assistant’s social media posts undercut her rape allegation.
• Scottie Scheffler stays hot at the Memorial, a first-time major winner in women’s golf, defending champs Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek reach the quarterfinals and a rare American feat at the French Open, and the Yankees bounce back from a thumping in a World Series rematch.
• Stanley Cup Final rematch begins Wednesday in Edmonton.
• Lance McCullers gets 24-hour security after online death threats, some aimed at 5-year-old daughter.
• French Open tennis players say nasal strips aren't just for snoring.
• Olympic boxing champ Imane Khelif must undergo genetic sex screening to fight for new governing body.
• Britain is getting a defense boost aimed at sending a message to Moscow, and to Trump.
• The number of migrants reaching the UK in small boats in a single day hits a 2025 high.
• Climate activist Greta Thunberg joins aid ship sailing to Gaza aimed at breaking Israel's blockade.
• Iran has amassed even more near weapons-grade uranium, UN watchdog says.
• Death toll reaches 151 in north-central Nigerian town submerged in floods, thousands displaced.
• On this week's AP Religion Roundup, a Jewish museum reopens after a deadly shooting, and beat boxing nuns go viral.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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In today's edition, we look at the Los Angeles-area wildfires, the latest on President-elect Donald Trump's cabinet picks, public confidence in the Department of Justice, the situation in South Korea, an SEC lawsuiet brought against Elon Musk over Twitter and obesity guidelines.

In other news:

• Top DC prosecutor Trump pardons couldn't erase impact of Capitol riot convictions.
• Special counsel report says Trump would've been convicted for Jan. 6 'unprecedented criminal effort.'
• Sen. Adam Schiff talks fire insurance support while visiting Los Angeles evacuation center.
• Pete Hegseth vows a 'warrior culture' if confirmed as Trump's defense secretary, confronting critics.
• Michelle Obama will skip Trump inauguration, but ex-Presidents Obama, Clinton and Bush will be there.
• Biden administration will announce it's lifting state sponsor of terrorism designation for Cuba.
• Hanging out at Starbucks will cost you as company reverses its open-door policy.
• Stock market today Wall Street mostly rises after encouraging inflation data despite Lilly's drag.
• USDA documented insects and slime at Boar's Head plants, records show.
• U.S. producer prices rose 0.2% last month on higher energy costs.
• Britain's Princess of Wales says her cancer is in remission.
• Traffic into Manhattan drops 7.5% in first week of new toll. That's 43,000 fewer cars a day.
• Judge says the New Orleans Police Department can begin the process of ending federal oversight.
• Giannis’ triple-double powers the Bucks to a bounce back win, a man accused of stalking Caitlin Clark publicly admits guilt, former Cowboys stars emerge as potential head coach candidates in Dallas, Tiger Woods makes his indoor golf debut and an NHL player is injured after being hit by a car. 
• Pope Francis is introspective and self-critical in his autobiography, at least about his youth.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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CAIRO (AP) — Officials say Hamas has accepted a draft agreement for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of dozens of hostages. Mediator Qatar said the negotiations were at the “closest point” yet to sealing a deal. The Associated Press obtained a copy of the proposed agreement, and an Egyptian official and a Hamas official confirmed its authenticity. An Israeli official said progress has been made, but the details are being finalized. The plan would need to be submitted to the Israeli Cabinet for final approval.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Special counsel Jack Smith says in a report his team “stood up for the rule of law” as it investigated President-elect Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump’s choice for defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, is heading into a potentially explosive Senate confirmation hearing. Hegseth will call himself a “change agent” in prepared opening remarks. Senators will question whether the former combat veteran and TV news show host is fit to lead the U.S. military.

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A beefed-up firefighting force is staged around Los Angeles to attack flare-ups or new blazes. And anxious residents are prepared for the worst Tuesday as dangerous winds were expected to build a week after massive infernos destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 24 people. 

BRUSSELS (AP) — NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte says the alliance is launching a new mission to protect undersea cables in the Baltic Sea region. Rutte said Tuesday at a meeting in Helsinki with the leaders of NATO countries located on the Baltic Sea that the effort would be dubbed Baltic Sentry. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — New research suggests that Americans' risk for developing dementia over a lifetime may be higher than previously thought. A study found that after age 55, people have up to a 4 in 10 chance of eventually developing dementia — if they live long enough. 

In other news:

• Prosecutor who investigated Hunter Biden defends probes, denounces president's remarks in new report.
• The Supreme Court: rejects Utah's push to wrest control of public land from the federal government; declines to hear from oil and gas companies trying to block climate change lawsuits; seems likely to uphold a law that could ban TikTok in the US on Jan. 19.
• Carrie Underwood, Village People to perform at Trump's inauguration events.
• Biden says he's leaving Trump with a 'strong hand to play' in world conflicts.
• Incoming Trump team is questioning civil servants at National Security Council about their loyalty.
• Biden's administration proposes new rules on exporting AI chips, provoking an industry pushback.
• IRS is sending out automatic stimulus payments. Who is getting them.
• Dazzling Ice Castles draw tourists to New Hampshire and other states.
• The Rams coast past the Vikings into the NFC divisional round, the Cowboys eye a former Dallas star to replace their coach, the 76ers change plans for their new arena, the field narrows to sign a star Japanese pitcher in free agency. 
• Lions winning in ways they haven't in Super Bowl era after franchise finally found the right leaders.
• Texas man charged with stalking WNBA and Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark.
• British heavyweight Tyson Fury announces retirement from boxing again, one month after Usyk defeat.
• Top aide of impeached South Korean president pleads for investigators to halt detention efforts.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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LOS ANGELES (AP) — Firefighters are preparing for a return of dangerous winds that could again stoke the wildfires that have destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 24 people in the Los Angeles area. Crews made some progress battling the flames this weekend. The relative calm Sunday allowed some people to return to previously evacuated areas. 

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — Blue Origin has called off the debut launch of its massive new rocket because of technical trouble. The 320-foot rocket was supposed to blast off before dawn Monday with a prototype satellite from Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Officials say Israel and Hamas appear to be inching closer to a phased ceasfire agreement. But a deal hasn’t been reached yet. And there are a number of obstacles that could scupper the talks in Qatar.

HONG KONG (AP) — China’s exports in December grew at a faster pace than expected, as factories rushed to fill orders to beat higher tariffs that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to impose once he takes office. Exports rose 10.7% from a year earlier.

TOKYO (AP) — A strong earthquake measuring a preliminary magnitude of 6.9 has rattled southwestern Japan. 

After a freezing winter storm shut schools, cut power and cancelled or delayed flights, the South is slowly thawing. Warmer weather is melting snow and ice and letting crews restore power. Power is back in parts of North Carolina and South Carolina, where tens of thousands of customers lost electricity over the last few days. In Atlanta, about 1,000 flights were cancelled or delayed Saturday. Airport officials say all roadways and parking lots were cleared of snow by Sunday and all runways are operational. Power was back for 97% of the retail customers served by Georgia Power — the state largest utility — which serves all but four of the state’s 159 counties, it said.

In other news:

• Vance says Jan. 6 participants who committed violence 'obviously' shouldn't be pardoned.
• Americans have dimmer view of Biden than they did of Trump or Obama as term ends, AP-NORC poll finds.
• President Joe Biden says he dropped out of the presidential race for the good of the Democratic Party.
• US added a strong 256,000 jobs in December as unemployment rate dipped to 4.1%.
• California man says two of his cats died after drinking raw milk recalled for bird flu.
• Sam Moore, who sang ‘Soul Man’ in Sam & Dave duo, dies at 89 due to surgery complications.
• Anita Bryant, a popular singer who became known for opposition to gay rights, dead at age 84.
• Fired US Center for SafeSport investigator arrested on new charges.
• Jalen Hurts returns to help the Eagles advance past the Packers, and a game-winning field goal lifts the Commanders over the Buccaneers in the NFC playoffs, Josh Allen leads the Bills to an AFC wild-card win over the Broncos, the Patriots hire another former linebacker as coach and the Cavaliers’ league-best win streak is snapped. 
• Yankees fans who interfered with Mookie Betts during World Series banned from all MLB games.
• Lamar Jackson repeats and Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson are unanimous choices for AP All-Pro.
• Former Georgia quarterback Carson Beck says he has committed to Miami for 2025 season.
• On this week's AP Religion Roundup, Pope Francis starts the year with legacy-building leadership announcements.
• India kicks off a massive Hindu festival touted as the world's largest religious gathering.
• Uyghurs detained in Thailand say they face deportation and persecution in China.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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• Jimmy Carter lauded for his humility and service in Washington before his return to Georgia.
• Supreme Court rejects Trump’s bid to delay sentencing in his New York hush money case.
• Judge scraps Biden's Title IX rules, reversing expansion of protections for LGBTQ+ students.
• The Biden administration succeeds in temporarily blocking a plea deal for accused 911 mastermind.
• New Mexico is a go-to state for women seeking abortions. A new court ruling helps it stay that way.
• South Carolina statue honoring Black hero Robert Smalls will stare down a segregationist.
• Major Florida grower to end citrus operations after years of hurricanes and tree disease.
• The NBA is latest sports league to make a schedule change due to the deadly L.A. wildfires.
• Las Vegas Raiders fire general manager Tom Telesco after just one year.
• Researchers confirm 'Music City Miracle' star Frank Wycheck had CTE.
• Their remains were found decades ago. A new push could identify all of a serial killer's victims.
• At last, some welcome news on college costs. Tuition has fallen significantly at many schools.
• Musk uses X livestream to amplify German far-right leader's views ahead of an election.
• New research shows a quarter of freshwater animals are threatened with extinction.
• Scientists drill nearly 2 miles down to pull 1.2 million-year-old ice core from Antarctic.
• An Israeli TV reporter lost his ability to speak clearly. AI is helping him get back on air.
• CES 2025: ‘Portable robot’ clips on cups to cool warm beverages.
• CES 2025: Simple handheld device acts as breathing companion for children

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Firefighters are battling to control major fires in the Los Angeles area that have killed five people, ravaged communities from the Pacific Coast to Pasadena and caused thousands of people to frantically flee their homes. Ferocious winds that drove the flames and prompted chaotic evacuations have calmed somewhat and are not expected to be as powerful Thursday. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has canceled the final overseas trip of his presidency just hours before he was set to depart for Rome and the Vatican, choosing to remain in Washington to monitor the response to fires raging in California. Biden had been scheduled to leave Thursday after former President Jimmy Carter’s memorial service and meet with Pope Francis, Italian leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. 

Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter is being honored with the pageantry of a funeral in the nation’s capital before a second service in his tiny Georgia hometown that launched a Depression-era farm boy to the world stage. The dual funerals Thursday conclude six days of national funeral rites for the 39th president who died Dec. 29 at the age of 100.

ROME (AP) — Premier Giorgia Meloni says she doesn't believe President-elect Donald Trump actually intends to use military force to seize control of Greenland or the Panama Canal. She says she reads his comments more as a warning to China and other global players to keep their hands off such strategically important interests. 

DALLAS (AP) — Schools and cities from Texas to Georgia are shutting down in anticipation of freezing rain and snow forecast for much of the Southern U.S. The severe weather is expected across a stretch from New Mexico to Alabama starting Wednesday night and early Thursday. 

LAS VEGAS (AP) — So much of the technology showcased at CES includes gadgets made to improve consumers’ lives — whether by leveraging AI to make devices that help people become more efficient, by creating companions to cure loneliness or by providing tools that help people with mental and physical health. But not all innovation is good, according to a panel of self-described dystopia experts that has judged some products as “Worst in Show.” The award that no company wants to win calls out the “least repairable, least private, and least sustainable products on display.”

In other news:

• President-elect Donald Trump visits Jimmy Carter's casket in Capitol Rotunda after criticizing him.
• Biden casts doubt on his fitness to serve another four years days before term ends.
• Blinken says Trump's push for US to take control of Greenland is 'not going to happen.'
• Justice Department says it plans to release only part of special counsel's Trump report for now.
• Trump asks the Supreme Court to block sentencing in his hush money case in New York.
• Ex-police officer and Proud Boys member gets 14 months in prison for joining Capitol attack.
• Lawyers collecting $148 million judgment from Rudy Giuliani say World Series rings must be given up.
• Top Fed official backs new rate cuts even if Trump tariffs materialize.
• US shifts $100 million in military aid from Israel and Egypt to Lebanon to bolster ceasefire.
• Biden is a great-grandfather.
• CNN defamation trial comes at a rough time for legacy media — and for the struggling network.
• Stock market today Wall Street holds firmer following Tuesday's slide.
• 2 bodies are found in the landing gear of JetBlue plane at Florida airport.
• 'Wicked' tops SAG Awards nominations as many big names are snubbed.
• Eagles QB Hurts returns to practice for the first time since he suffered a concussion.
• Former Baltimore Orioles left-hander Brian Matusz dies at 37, no cause of death announced.
• Mexico's President Sheinbaum offers sarcastic response to Trump's 'Gulf of America' comment.
• Germany's leader says all countries must respect existing borders, in a rebuttal of Trump.
• Attack on Chad's presidential palace leaves 19 dead.
• French far-right leader Marine Le Pen pays tribute to her politically polarizing father.
• Pope asks aide to deliver his annual foreign policy address, tells ambassadors he's battling a cold.
• Taiwan demonstrates sea defenses against potential Chinese attack as tensions rise with Beijing.
• A Russian missile attack in southern Ukraine has killed at least 13 civilians, officials say.
• An Italian journalist is freed from detention in Iran and returns home.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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LOS ANGELES (AP) — A wildfire whipped up by extreme winds is sweeping through a Los Angeles hillside dotted with celebrity residences. Homes have burned and tens of thousands of people are under evacuation orders, some of whom abandoned cars and fled on foot due to clogged roads. California Gov. Gavin Newsom says many structures have already been destroyed in the Pacific Palisades wildfire. 

NORFOLK, Va. (AP) — The plunging polar vortex is bringing subfreezing temperatures to some of the southernmost points of the U.S. A forming storm system is threatening to dump snow on parts of Texas and Oklahoma, while communities in Louisiana and Florida may see frigid cold. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Jimmy Carter's state funeral has moved to Washington after observances in his native Georgia. The 39th president's remains left the Carter Presidential Center on Tuesday morning and flew to the Washington area aboard Special Air Mission 39. 

PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump says he won't rule out the use of military force to seize control of the Panama Canal and Greenland as he declared U.S. control of both to be vital to American national security. 

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Authorities say two bodies have been found in the landing gear compartment of a JetBlue aircraft at a South Florida airport. The airline says the bodies were discovered in the wheel well area during a routine post-flight inspection on Monday night at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. 

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The singer-songwriter and social activist best known as one-third of the folk-music group Peter, Paul and Mary, has died at age 86. Peter Yarrow died Tuesday at his home in New York. 

In other news:

• Biden administration bans unpaid medical bills from appearing on credit reports.
• Appeals court rejects Trump's latest attempt to get Friday's hush money sentencing called off.
• Jack Smith finalizing Trump investigation report that could be released as early as Friday.
• Meta replaces fact-checking with X-style community notes.
• Man pleads not guilty to burning woman to death on a New York City subway train.
• Jean-Marie Le Pen, French far-right leader known for fiery rhetoric against immigration, dies at 96.
• The Titans are making a change in leadership and the Chargers are bulking up their roster ahead of the playoffs.
• 49ers head home early following a trying season that started with Super Bowl hopes.
• Gaudreau suspect pleads not guilty to homicide charges after turning down 35-year prison sentence.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

Theme music

The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

WASHINGTON (AP) — Jimmy Carter's state funeral moves to Washington after observances in his native Georgia. The 39th president's remains will leave the Carter Presidential Center on Tuesday morning and fly to Washington aboard Special Air Mission 39. The Carter family and former president will arrive at Joint Base Andrews, with a motorcade following to the U.S. Navy Memorial. Carter's flag-draped casket will be transferred to a horse-drawn caisson for his final journey to the Capitol. 

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — The next round of bitter cold is set to envelop the southern U.S., after the first significant winter storm of the year blasted a huge swath of the country with ice, snow and wind. The immense storm system brought disruption even to areas of the country that usually escape winter’s wrath, downing trees in some Southern states and threatening a freeze in Florida. 

DORAVILLE, Ga. (AP) — Authorities say a shooting at the Honduran consulate just outside Atlanta left one person dead and another injured. Doraville city spokesperson Emily Heenan says a suspect is in custody.

Fewer than 1 in 1,000 U.S. adolescents with commercial insurance received gender-affirming medications during a recent five-year period. That's according to a study published Monday that sheds light on medical practices now being weighed by the U.S. Supreme Court. 

GUWAHATI, India (AP) — At least nine workers are trapped inside a flooded coal mine in India’s northeastern Assam state and authorities have summoned the army to help in the rescue operation. The miners became trapped on Monday in Dimapur Hasao district south of the state capital, Guwahati. 

In other news:

• Congress convenes to certify Trump's election win, but his Jan. 6 legacy hangs over the day.
• Judge denies Trump's bid to halt Friday's hush money case sentencing while they appeal to block it.
• Hundreds of Capitol riot prosecutions are in limbo as a DC court awaits Trump's White House return.
• Biden issues ban on offshore oil and gas drilling in most federal waters. Trump vows to undo it.
• Top Federal Reserve bank regulator, under fire from GOP, to step down next month.
• Rudy Giuliani is in contempt of court in $148 million defamation case.
• Minneapolis agrees to overhaul police training and force policies after George Floyd's murder.
• New Orleans holds 1st parade of Carnival season 5 days after deadly attack on Bourbon Street.
• Man behind New Year's attack visited New Orleans before, recorded video with smart glasses, FBI says.
• California governor proposes $322B budget with no deficit.
• First US bird flu death is announced in Louisiana.
• McDonald's is the latest company to roll back diversity goals.
• Stock market today Nvidia and other tech stocks pull Wall Street higher.
• Jaguars fire coach Doug Pederson, keep GM Trent Baalke after 'best team assembled' wins just 4 games.
• Sheel Seidler, wife of late Padres owner, sues in-laws for control of the team.
• Scottie Scheffler withdraws from next tournament. Pebble Beach still on his schedule.
• Residents of Syria's Quneitra are frustrated by lack of action to halt Israeli advance.
• Pope names like-minded ally Cardinal McElroy as Washington archbishop.
• Canada's Trudeau resigns as Liberal Party leader, spelling end to time in power.
• France marks 10 years since deadly Charlie Hebdo attacks.
• A look at the legal cases filed against France's former President Sarkozy.
• North Korea says it tested hypersonic intermediate range missile aimed at remote Pacific targets.
• Russia claims it has captured another town in eastern Ukraine but Kyiv doesn't confirm the loss.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel are filing a federal lawsuit challenging the Biden administration’s decision to block a proposed nearly $15 billion deal for Nippon to acquire Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel. The suit, filed Monday in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, alleges that it was a political decision and violated the companies’ due process.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is heading to New Orleans as the city reels from the deadly New Year’s attack in which an Army veteran plowed a truck into revelers, killing 14 and injuring 30 more. Biden says his message to the families will be to hang on despite the grief. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress plans to convene during a snowstorm to certify the 2024 election results for President-elect Donald Trump. Jan. 6 is the date required by law. But the legacy of Jan. 6, 2021, hangs over Monday's proceedings as the Republican who tried to overturn the previous election is legitimately returning to power. 

A major winter blast of snow, ice, high winds and plunging temperatures are stirring up dangerous conditions across the U.S. central and southern states all the way to the East Coast. 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — The Jacksonville Jaguars are home after spending seven hours waiting through a winter storm on the tarmac at Indianapolis International Airport.

LONDON (AP) — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has condemned “lies and misinformation” that he says are undermining U.K. democracy. It comes in response to a barrage of attacks on his government from Elon Musk. 

NEW YORK (AP) — New York’s new toll for drivers entering the center of Manhattan is starting up after it withstood years of political wrangling, a last-minute pause and a flurry of legal challenges. 

ROME (AP) — Pope Francis has named the first woman to head a major Vatican office. He is appointing Sister Simona Brambilla, an Italian nun, to become prefect of the Vatican department responsible for all the church's religious orders.

In other news:

• Higher Social Security payments coming for millions of people from bill Biden signed.
• A six-day funeral continues for former President Jimmy Carter.
• Congress is notified by the Biden administration of a planned $8 billion weapons sale to Israel.
• Hillary Clinton, George Soros and Denzel Washington will receive the highest US civilian honor.
• 'The Brutalist,' 'Emilia Perez' triumph at Golden Globes.
• Indie filmmaker Jeff Baena, Aubrey Plaza's husband, found dead at Los Angeles residence.
• Sick season is in full force. What the latest CDC figures show.
• Rudy Giuliani insists he's not hiding assets at contempt hearing over $148 million judgment.
• A major airline is being fined for chronic flight delays, and passengers may get a cut of the money.
• AP correspondent Charles de Ledesma reports the US Secretary of State is on a final trip abroad, locations include South Korea; Israelis on a bus in the West Bank are targeted; Russia's military gain territory in Ukraine.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

Theme music

The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

Each week Hot off the Wire looks at a variety of stories in business, science, health and more. This week's headlines include:

• Small businesses brace themselves for potentially disruptive TikTok ban.
• A data company has figured out which airlines fly on time most often.
• Americans are exhausted by political news. TV ratings and a new AP-NORC poll show they're tuning out.
• Republicans' trust in accuracy of US elections jumps after Trump's win, AP-NORC poll finds.
• 5 things we know and still don't know about COVID, 5 years after it appeared.
• Bird flu virus likely mutated within a Louisiana patient, CDC says.
• Cats can get sick with bird flu. Here's how to protect them.
• Discarded Christmas trees become seasonal snack for goats in Chicago.
• 'Dinosaur highway' tracks dating back 166 million years are discovered in England.
• Border arrests are little changed in December, ending Biden's term at lowest level.
• Surgeon General calls for new label on drinks to warn Americans of alcohol's cancer risk.
• FBI issues warning to leagues about organized crime groups targeting pro athletes.
• Netflix averages more than 30 million viewers globally for its NFL Christmas Day doubleheader.
• The year in review Influential people who died in 2024.
• 'Sonic 3' and 'Mufasa' battle for No. 1 at the holiday box office.
• Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt reach divorce settlement after 8 years.
• US homelessness up 18% as affordable housing remains out of reach for many people.
• The killing of an 18-year-old Ohio woman was solved with DNA technology after 43 years.
• On this week's AP Religion Roundup, President Jimmy Carter leaves a legacy of tackling race relations through his Christian faith.
• The world population will be 8.09 billion on New Year's Day after a 71 million increase in 2024.
• Panama celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Panama Canal handover as Trump wants to take it back.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A mix of law enforcement, street performers and football fans is filling New Orleans’ blocks as the city inches back to normalcy. A deadly New Year’s truck attack along Bourbon Street killed 14 people, along with the driver. Shamsud-Din Jabbar was fatally shot in a firefight with police after steering his speeding truck around a barricade and plowing into a crowd of revelers. About 30 people were injured.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Authorities say the highly decorated soldier inside a Tesla Cybertruck packed with fireworks that exploded outside Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas shot himself in the head just before detonation.

A year after a panel blew out of a Boeing 737 Max during flight, the nation’s top aviation regulator says the company needs to change its culture and put safety above profits.

FULLERTON, Calif. (AP) — Police in Southern California say two people are dead after a small plane crashed through the roof of a sprawling furniture manufacturing building. The accident on Thursday near the Fullerton Municipal Airport in Orange County caused a fire and prompted the evacuation of at least 200 workers. 

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is “strong and unpredictable” and those qualities can be a decisive factor in his policy approach to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. However, Zelenskyy says it won’t be possible to end the almost three years of war in one day, as Trump claimed during his election campaign he could do. 

NEW YORK (AP) — Wayne Osmond, a singer, guitarist and founding member of the million-selling family act The Osmonds, has died. He was 73. Sibling Merrill Osmond posted on his Facebook page that Wayne died this week at a Salt Lake City hospital after suffering a “massive stroke.”

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — Authorities say a surfer missing in Australia is believed dead in a shark attack and they are searching the waters where the man disappeared. The 28-year-old was at a popular surf beach in South Australia where a man was killed by a white shark in 2023. 

In other news:

• Federal courts won't refer Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas to attorney general over ethics.
• Biden awards the 2nd highest civilian award to leaders of the Jan. 6 committee and 18 others.
• FBI releases new video of a suspect planting a pipe bomb near DNC offices on eve of the Capitol riot.
• AP correspondent Shelley Adler reports on safety and the Crescent City after a truck rammed through Bourbon Street killing 15.
• Stock market today Wall Street opens 2025 with more modest losses.
• Apple to pay $95 million to settle lawsuit accusing Siri of snoopy eavesdropping.
• US unemployment claims fall to 211,000, the lowest level since March.
• Puerto Rico's new governor sworn in days after a major blackout left much of the island in the dark.
• 10 people shot outside a Queens, NY, nightclub; 4 suspects at large.
• Notre Dame is two wins from a national championship, Patrick Mahomes won't be going to the Pro Bowl and the Thunder stretch their winning streak. Plus: Early NBA All-Star Game voting and Alabama's QB declares fro the NFL Draft.
• South Korea's impeached president defies warrant after hourslong standoff.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

Theme music

The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

Each week Hot off the Wire looks at a variety of stories in business, science, health and more. This week's headlines include:

• Half of world's population endured extra month of extreme heat due to climate change, experts say.
• The Digital Equity Act tried to close the digital divide. Trump calls it racist and acts to end it.
• Why 'wrench attacks' on wealthy crypto holders are on the rise.
• A new variant of COVID-19 may be driving up cases in some parts of the world, WHO says.
• Scientists have lost their jobs or grants in US cuts. Foreign universities want to hire them.
• Supreme Court lets Trump end humanitarian parole for 500,000 people from 4 countries.
• CDC removes language that says healthy kids should get COVID shots.
• US government is investigating messages impersonating Trump's chief of staff, Susie Wiles.
• Maryland's Wes Moore says he's not running for president but high-profile stops keep chatter alive.
• US inflation gauge cools with little sign of tariff impact, so far.
• Bernard Kerik, who led NYPD on 911 before prison and pardon, has died at 69.
• Authorities eyeing whether a kitchen job had a role in the 'Devil in the Ozarks' prison escape.
• Lance McCullers Jr. hires security after online death threats, some aimed at 5-year-old daughter.
• Escape of ex-police chief known as 'Devil in the Ozarks' has Arkansas residents on edge.
• WWII bomber crash left 11 dead and 'non-recoverable.' 4 are finally coming home.
• Harvard agrees to relinquish early photos of slaves, ending a long legal battle.
• US peregrine falcons adapt well to city living as their coastal cousins struggle with bird flu.
• A journalist was killed while writing a book on the Amazon. Here's how friends completed his work.
• Japan to use soil from contaminated Fukushima on flowerbeds at prime minister's office.
• Only 900 speakers of the Sanna language remain. Now Cyprus' Maronites are mounting a comeback.
• Renowned Everest guide says using xenon speeds climb and makes it safer, better for environment.
• Meet Hercules and Ned, the border collies fending off wildlife at West Virginia’s busiest airport.
• Vessel's implosion can be heard on new video from expedition to Titanic wreckage.
• Most LGBTQ+ adults feel Americans don't accept transgender people, Pew poll finds.
• Brazilian nuns go viral after beatboxing on Catholic TV.
• On this week's AP Religion Roundup, Ken Ham continues his crusade for creationism in the face of science.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

Theme music

The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — President Joe Biden says the U.S. Army veteran who drove a pickup truck into a crowd of New Year’s revelers in New Orleans had posted videos to social media hours before the carnage saying he was inspired by the Islamic State group and expressing a desire to kill. The driver killed 15 people as he steered around a police blockade and slammed into revelers before being shot dead by police. 

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Firework mortars and camp fuel canisters were found stuffed into the back of the Tesla Cybertruck that exploded outside President-elect Donald Trump’s Las Vegas hotel early Wednesday. The blast killed a suspect inside the vehicle and sparked an intense investigation into possible terrorism. 

President Joe Biden is bestowing the second highest civilian award on Liz Cheney and Bennie Thompson, who led the congressional investigation into the Capitol riot. Donald Trump has said that Cheney, a former Wyoming congresswoman, and Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat, should be jailed for their roles in the inquiry Biden will award the Presidential Citizens Medal to 20 people on Thursday. 

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The new year will bring a pair of lunar eclipses. But don't expect any sun-disappearing acts like the one that mesmerized North America last year. While the world will have to wait until 2026 for the next total solar eclipse, the cosmos promises plenty of other wow moments in 2025.

In other news:

• FBI found 150 homemade bombs at Virginia home during search in December, prosecutors say.
• Harry Chandler, Navy medic who survived Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, dies at 103.
• 'It Ends With Us' director Justin Baldoni sues New York Times for libel over Blake Lively story.
• Pope calls for commitment to protect life as he doubles down on abortion in New Year's Day message.
• Rescuers find gruesome scene at a Honolulu home after a fireworks blast kills 3, injures over 20.
• New York employers must now offer paid medical leave during pregnancy.
• PlayStations for guns are offered up in New Orleans.
• Power is restored to nearly all of Puerto Rico after a major blackout.
• Parts of UK flooded by heavy rain as wild weather continues to disrupt New Year events.
• The New Orleans terror attack postpones the Sugar Bowl, Ohio State eliminates the last undefeated team in the Rose Bowl, Texas pulls out a dramatic victory in the Peach Bowl, the Knicks extend their winning streak into the new year, and Saquon Barkley will rest rather than attempt to break the NFL single season rushing record on Sunday.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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Each week Hot off the Wire looks at a variety of stories in business, science, health and more. This week's headlines include:

• How to avoid financial stress during the holiday season.
• 2024 was big for bitcoin. States could see a crypto policy blitz in 2025 in spite of the risks.
• Americans end 2024 with grim economic outlook, but Republicans are optimistic for 2025: AP-NORC poll.
• Business owners should not forget anti-money laundering rule currently in legal limbo.
• 'Dirty Dancing,' 'Beverly Hills Cop,' 'Up in Smoke' among movies entering the National Film Registry.
• Popeye and Tintin enter the public domain in 2025 along with novels from Faulkner and Hemingway.
• From Caitlin Clark and Simone Biles to a new hockey league, women's sports had a pivotal year.
• Schools are cutting bus service for children. Parents are turning to ride-hailing apps.
• There's been an uptick in the sales of nuclear bomb shelters.
• Musk and Trump are viewed roughly the same by Americans, an AP-NORC poll finds.
• US to require passenger vehicles to sound alarms if rear passengers don't fasten their seat belts.
• Mystery drone sightings keep happening in New Jersey. Here's what we know (and don't know).
• New York man finds Mastodon jaw in his backyard.
• An Alabama woman is doing well after the latest experimental pig kidney transplant.
• Invasive 'murder hornets' are wiped out in the US, officials say.
• Concert promoters, hotels and lodging sites soon will have to disclose extra fees up front.
• Activists release images of foxes at Finnish fur farms to push EU to ban the trade.
• Milan's Via MonteNapoleone usurps New York's Fifth Avenue as world's most upscale shopping street.
• Once taboo, more Japanese women are brewing sake.
• Leap of faith: A few young women in US buck the trends by joining the ranks of Catholic nuns.
• Oldest known stone tablet inscribed with the Ten Commandments sells for over $5M.
• Survivors seek a reckoning as FBI investigates child sex abuse in little-known Christian sect.
• Pope in autobiography reveals an apparent bombing plot during his 2021 visit to Iraq.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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Workers at Starbucks stores plan to go on a five-day strike starting Friday to protest lack of progress in contract negotiations with the company. The strikes are scheduled to start in Los Angeles, Chicago and Seattle and could spread to hundreds of stores across the country by Christmas Eve. 

A debate over the debt ceiling is at the center of a dispute over funding that is pushing the possibility of a federal government shutdown to the brink in Washington. President-elect Donald Trump has proposed that raising the nation’s debt limit be part of ongoing efforts to avert a government shutdown, saying in a statement Wednesday, “Anything else is a betrayal of our country.” 

WASHINGTON (AP) — The first U.S. diplomats to visit Syria since President Bashar Assad's ouster earlier this month are in Damascus to hold talks with the country's new leadership and seek information on the whereabouts of missing American journalist Austin Tice.

NEW YORK (AP) — The man arrested in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO is being held without bail after a New York federal court appearance on charges including a death-eligible murder count. 

McALLEN, Texas (AP) — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement says it deported more than 270,000 people over a recent 12-month period, the highest annual tally in a decade. Its report released Thursday illustrates some financial and operational challenges that President-elect Donald Trump will face to carry out his pledge of mass deportations.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri man could face up to 25 years in prison after admitting to setting a fire that destroyed a church. Christopher Scott Pritchard pleaded guilty Thursday to two federal charges for setting ablaze the Church of Latter-Day Saints in Cape Girardeau on April 28, 2021. 

In other news:

• t's beginning to look like another record for holiday travel.
• The TSA is urging holiday travelers to be careful about what they bring on planes.
• Biden expected to visit Pope Francis in final international trip of his presidency, AP sources say.
• Alberta's premier says Americans will pay a lot more for gas if Trump applies 25% tariffs on Canada.
• International students urged to return to US campuses before Trump inauguration.
• Pentagon says it doubled the number of US troops in Syria before Assad's fall.
• Appeals court removes prosecutor Fani Willis from Georgia election case against Trump and others.
• FDA says knockoff versions of Lilly obesity drug must come off the market.
• FDA updates the definition of 'healthy' foods.
• Stock market today Wall Street ends little changed after giving up a big morning gain.
• US home sales hit fastest pace since March with more properties up for sale.
• Oklahoma man dies by lethal injection in the nation’s final execution of 2024.
• NFL Week 16 kicks off with a key AFC West matchup, one of the NBA's superstars has a day to forget while one of the NHL's best records a four-point night, and the candidates for the 2025 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame class have been announced.
• Sammy Sosa appears to acknowledge PED use, apologizes; Cubs welcome him back into fold.
• Aaron Hernandez's brother pleads guilty to threatening a shooting at UConn.
• Malaysia agrees to resume 'no find, no fee' hunt for flight MH370, 10 years after plane disappeared.
• South Korean investigators seek to question reluctant president over martial law.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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HOLLIDAYSBURG, Pa. (AP) — The suspect charged with shooting to death a health insurance company chief executive on a Manhattan street is being taken to hearings on related Pennsylvania criminal charges and efforts to extradite him to New York. Luigi Mangione faces a preliminary hearing on forgery and firearms charges and consideration of a fugitive from justice complaint on Thursday.

Workers at seven Amazon facilities are on strike. The union said that the workers are joining the picket line Thursday after Amazon ignored a Sunday deadline the union set for contract negotiations. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump has abruptly rejected a bipartisan plan to prevent a Christmastime government shutdown. Instead, he's telling House Speaker Mike Johnson and Republicans to essentially renegotiate — days before a deadline when federal funding runs out. Trump’s sudden decision Wednesday to make new demands sent Congress spiraling as lawmakers are trying to wrap up work and head home for the holidays. 

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Police say the shooter who killed a student and teacher at a religious school in Wisconsin this week brought two guns to the school. The 15-year-old girl also was in contact with a man in California who authorities say was planning to attack a government building. 

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Capybaras are having a big moment. The world’s largest rodent is the latest in a long line of “it” animals to get star treatment during the holiday season.

In other news:

• DOJ files complaint gainst CVS for facilitating unlawful sale of prescription opioids.
• Judge Pardoning Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes for Capitol riot plot would be 'frightening.'
• Senate committee to hold confirmation hearing for defense secretary nominee Hegseth on Jan 14.
• House Ethics Committee secretly voted to release Matt Gaetz ethics report, source says.
• Supreme Court will hear arguments over the law that could ban TikTok in the US if it's not sold.
• Biden honors memory of his late first wife and baby daughter who died in a 1972 Delaware car crash.
• Ontario's premier says Trump's tariffs would be a disaster for US markets.
• UN General Assembly demands ceasefire in Gaza and backs UN agency helping Palestinian refugees.
• China has expanded its nuclear force and strengthened ties to Russia, the Pentagon says.
• Federal Reserve cuts its key rate by a quarter-point but envisions fewer reductions next year.
• US stocks fall sharply and Dow tumbles 1,100 points after the Fed hints at just 2 rate cuts for 2025.
• US retreats from massive air bag recall and says industry comments show need for more investigation.
• Manhattan man pleads guilty to helping establish secret Chinese police station in NYC.
• Health officials say Louisiana patient is first severe bird flu case in US.
• Jay-Z's lawyers challenge rapper's inclusion in rape lawsuit after accuser's TV interview.
• No NBA games Wednesday night but plenty of college action, the NHL with five games on its schedule and Aaron Rodgers says he could be a mentor next season.
• Man pleads guilty to stalking UConn basketball star Paige Bueckers.
• Wake Forest reaches deal with Washington State's Jake Dickert to become coach, AP source says.
• Putin opens his annual news conference, an event he uses to reinforce his authority.
• Gisèle Pelicot's ex-husband found guilty of rapes, sentenced to 20 years in prison in France.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

Two people were killed and others were injured Monday in a shooting at a private Christian school in Madison, Wisconsin. Police said a student who opened fire, identified as a 15-year-old girl, was also dead. The girl also wounded six others in the shooting at Abundant Life Christian School, including two students who were in critical condition. Police were still unsure of what motivated the shooter.

NEW YORK (AP) — The man accused of killing UnitedHealthcare’s CEO is charged with murder as an act of terrorism. Prosecutors disclosed the indictment Tuesday as they worked to bring Luigi Mangione to New York from a Pennsylvania jail. 

Russia's security service says that it has detained a suspect in the killing of a senior general in Moscow. The suspect was described as an Uzbek citizen recruited by Ukrainian intelligence services. 

SUNNY ISLES BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Almost three dozen high-rise condos and luxury hotels are sinking or settling along South Florida beaches. A new study from the University of Miami says 35 buildings along an almost 12-mile stretch from Miami Beach to Sunny Isles Beach have sunk or settled in a range of 0.8 to 3.1 inches.

In other news:

• After investigating Jan. 6, House GOP sides with Trump and goes after Liz Cheney.
• Federal Reserve is set to cut key rate but consumers might not feel much benefit anytime soon.
• Congress unveils funding deal with more than $100 billion in disaster aid.
• Trump sues Des Moines Register, pollster for 'election interference' after pre-election poll.
• Trump’s lawyers allege juror misconduct in latest bid to get his hush money conviction dismissed.
• Jill Biden says she has closed the book on teaching at Northern Virginia Community College.
• NASA's 2 stuck astronauts face more time in space with return delayed until at least late March.
• US shows off $1 billion Mexico City embassy after years of delays.
• US to pay nearly $116M to settle lawsuits over rampant sexual abuse at California women's prison.
• Tech consultant found guilty of second-degree murder in stabbing death of Cash App founder Bob Lee.
• Suspect in Gilgo Beach serial killings is charged in the death of a seventh woman.
• Stock market today Wall Street trims its stellar gains as Nvidia's star dims again.
• Retail sales rose at healthy pace last month in latest sign of US economy's health.
• Energy chief Granholm warns against 'unfettered exports' of liquefied natural gas.
• Company recalls over 541,000 winter tires because they don't have enough snow traction.
• Tom Cruise gets a top U.S Navy honor for boosting the military with his screen roles.
• Megan Thee Stallion seeks restraining order, says imprisoned Tory Lanez continues to harass her.
• The Bucks beat the Thunder to win the NBA Cup, No. 1 Tennessee wins its 11th straight game in college basketball, the Hurricanes shut down the Islanders and the Blackhawks rally past the Capitals, an NFL starting quarterback is benched, a former baseball MVP is traded and more. 
• Court rules that UK police can seize millions from Andrew Tate in tax dispute.
• 7 foreign tourists hospitalized in Fiji were not poisoned by alcohol or illicit drugs, officials say.
• Netanyahu says Israeli troops will occupy a buffer zone inside Syria for the foreseeable future.
• A couple hundred North Korean troops killed, wounded in battles with Ukrainian forces.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Police say a 15-year-old student opened fire inside a study hall at a small Christian school in Wisconsin, killing a teacher and a teenager. Monday's shooting prompted a swarm of police officers to descend on the school in response to a second grader’s 911 call. Police say the girl also wounded six others in the shooting at Abundant Life Christian School, including two students who were in critical condition. Police say the shooter was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound when officers arrived and died en route to a hospital.

A senior Russian general has been killed by a bomb hidden in a scooter outside his apartment building in Moscow. The attack came a day after Ukraine’s security service leveled criminal charges against him. A Ukrainian official said the service carried out Tuesday's attack. 

NEW YORK (AP) — A judge has refused to dismiss President-elect Donald Trump’s hush money conviction because of the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling on presidential immunity. But the overall future of the historic case remains unclear. Manhattan Judge Juan M. Merchan’s decision Monday blocks one potential off-ramp from the case ahead of Trump's return to office next month. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — At a time of heightened political division, Americans’ confidence in their country’s judicial system and courts dropped to a record low of 35% this year. That's according to a new Gallup poll. 

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut has become the latest state to begin notifying its eligible citizens that some or all of their medical debt will soon be paid off. State officials announced Monday that nearly 23,000 residents with debt totaling $30 million are expected to be informed by mail beginning Dec. 23. 

In other news:

• Trump weighs in on NY mayor, vaccines and drones in freewheeling press conference at Mar-a-Lago.
• Supreme Court declines appeal from Peter Navarro; Trump White House aide to return after prison term.
• Drone detectors in New Jersey have found 'little or no evidence' of wrongdoing, governor says.
• Two charged in connection with Iran drone strike that killed 3 US troops in the Middle East.
• New Orleans insists its police department is ready to end federal oversight. Not all are convinced.
• Stock market today Nasdaq hits a record as Wall Street drifts ahead of Federal Reserve's meeting.
• TikTok asks the Supreme Court for an emergency order to block a US ban unless it's sold.
• Former TV host Carlos Watson gets nearly 10 years in prison in case about failed startup Ozy Media.
• The Vikings keep winning, the Falcons got a much needed win, the Lions have two more major injuries, the Pistons hold off the Heat in overtime, the Stanley Cup finalists meet
• AP All-America team Travis Hunter, Xavier Watts back on first team; Ashton Jeanty is unanimous pick.
• Negotiators say Israel and Hamas are inching toward a ceasefire deal. This is what it may look like.
• 7 foreign tourists hospitalized in Fiji after drinking cocktails at a resort bar.
• Magnitude 7.3 earthquake causes widespread damage in Pacific island nation of Vanuatu.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

BOSTON (AP) — U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer is urging the federal government to deploy advanced drone-tracking technology following weeks of reported drone sightings in parts of New York and New Jersey that have stirred fear and bewilderment. The New York Democrat is calling on the Department of Homeland Security to use the technology to track drones back to their landing spots. 

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Health officials in the Gaza Strip say the death toll from the 14-month war between Israel and Hamas militants has topped 45,000 people.

TOKYO (AP) — Japan’s biggest bank has apologized after an employee allegedly stole more than 1 billion yen ($6.6 million) from customers' safe deposit boxes.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Americans hoping for lower borrowing costs for homes, credit cards and cars may be disappointed after this week’s Federal Reserve meeting. The Fed’s policymakers are likely to signal fewer interest rate cuts next year than were previously expected. 

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — France is rushing help by ship and military aircraft to its poor overseas territory of Mayotte in the Indian Ocean that has been shattered by its worst storm in nearly a century. 

The Spider-Man spinoff “Kraven the Hunter” got off to a disastrous start in North American theaters this weekend. Studio estimates Sunday show the movie starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson earned only $11 million. This weekend's other major studio release was Warner Bros.’ animated “The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim,” which made $5 million. “Moana 2” easily beat out the new releases, becoming the fourth highest grossing film of the year with $717 million globally. “Wicked" also continued to perform and crossed the $500 million threshold worldwide. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris thanked deep-pocketed Democratic donors who raised record sums in last month’s election loss to President-elect Donald Trump. 

In other news:

• Biden to sign proclamation establishing national monument honoring first US female Cabinet secretary.
• Trump nominees should "steer clear" of undermining polio vaccine, McConnell says.
• ABC agrees to give $15 million to Donald Trump's presidential library to settle defamation lawsuit.
• Trump hosts Apple CEO at Mar-a-Lago as big tech leaders continue outreach to president-elect.
• US Marines start partial transfer from Okinawa in Japan to Guam under plan agreed 12 years ago.
• Court denies TikTok's request to halt enforcement of potential US ban until Supreme Court review.
• Former Manhattan prosecutor to represent suspect in killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO.
• After UnitedHealthcare CEO's killing, San Francisco police gave FBI tip about suspect's identity.
• After a 15-year pause in executions, Indiana prepares to put to death a man who killed 4.
• Small businesses say cautious shoppers are seeking "cozy" and "festive" this holiday season.
• Flight takes kids to visit Santa at North Pole scene in transformed Denver airport hangar.
• Margie Szaroleta has the AP Entertainment Update, featuring a Bob Dylan biography, "The Simpsons" and a return of "Malcolm in the Middle."
• High scoring games around the NFL Sunday, quarterbacks with prolific performances and a crazy finish in New Orleans. 
• Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter wins Heisman Trophy as college football's top player.
• Blake Horvath shines as Navy dominates in a 31-13 victory over Bryson Daily and No. 19 Army.
• South Korea’s impeached leader avoids investigators as court begins meeting to determine his fate.
• American pilgrim imprisoned in Syria calls his release a "blessing;" Greek village leans into faith in the fight against demographic collapse.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

Theme music

The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

Each week Hot off the Wire looks at a variety of stories in business, science, health and more. This week's headlines include:

• Working Well When holidays present rude customers, taking breaks and the high road preserve peace.
• Small businesses plan events, start marketing earlier to deal with shorter holiday shopping season.
• Turning dusty attic treasures into cash can yield millions for some and disappointment for others.
• ‘Polarization’ is Merriam-Webster’s 2024 word of the year.
• McDonald's employee who called 911 in CEO's shooting is eligible for a reward, but it will take time.
• Play the lottery and skip the line for a chance to see the Supreme Court in action.
• Luke Littler was an unknown a year ago. Now he's making millions and taking darts into mainstream.
• More beans and less red meat Nutritionists weigh in on US dietary guidelines.
• US health panel adds self-testing option for cervical cancer screening.
• Still rockin': As a singer turns 80, the Christmas song she sang as a teen is a holiday staple.
• The Associated Press names its Breakthrough Entertainers of 2024.
• UK spy agency releases annual Christmas card puzzle to uncover future codebreakers.
• Ukrainian man fleeing war rescued with his kitten on a perilous journey through Romanian mountains.
• Rural resurrection: A Greek village leans into faith in fight against demographic collapse.
• A New Zealander studied for a year to win the Spanish world Scrabble title. He doesn’t speak Spanish.
• Journalists' rights group says 104 media workers killed this year. Gaza stands out for 2nd year.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate is pushing toward a vote on legislation that would provide full Social Security benefits to millions of people. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer began the process on Thursday for a final vote on the bill, known as the Social Security Fairness Act. It would eliminate policies that currently limit Social Security payouts for roughly 2.8 million people. The legislation has passed the House. The bill would add more strain on the Social Security Trust funds, which are already estimated to be unable to pay out full benefits beginning in 2035. The measure would add an estimated $195 billion to federal deficits over 10 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

WASHINGTON (AP) — As several of President-elect Donald Trump’s choices for high-level positions in his administration face scrutiny on Capitol Hill, a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that Americans have their own doubts. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — The FBI should have done more to collect intelligence before the Capitol riot even though the bureau did prepare for the possibility of violence on Jan. 6, 2021, according to a watchdog report. It also says no undercover FBI employees were present that day and none of the bureau’s informants was authorized to participate. 

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russia has launched a massive aerial attack against Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Russia fired 93 cruise and ballistic missiles and almost 200 drones in Friday's bombardments. 

Stanley is recalling approximately 2.6 million of its switchback and trigger action stainless steel travel mugs sold in the U.S. because of a potential burn hazard. 

Dick Vitale said he’s cancer-free after his fourth bout with the disease in just over three years. The 85-year-old ESPN college basketball analyst posted Thursday on X that he got the news after a morning scan, saying: “SANTA CLAUS came early as Dr Rick Brown called & said that my PET SCAN at 7 AM came back CLEAN OF CANCER !” Vitale posted on X.

NEW YORK (AP) — The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau said Thursday it's capping overdraft fees at $5 with a rule set to take effect in October 2025, if it isn't overturned by Congress or altered under a Trump administration. President Joe Biden had called the fees, which can be as high as $35, “exploitative,” while the banking industry has lobbied extensively to keep the existing fee structures in place.

In other news:

• Biden administration makes final diplomatic push for stability across a turbulent Mideast.
• Trump is named Time's Person of the Year and rings the New York Stock Exchange's opening bell.
• Meta donates $1 million to Trump's inauguration fund.
• US senator says mysterious drones spotted in New Jersey should be 'shot down, if necessary.'
• Justice Department, Louisville reach deal after probe prompted by Breonna Taylor killing.
• NATO chief warns that Putin wants long-term confrontation with Europe after Ukraine.
• Stock market today Wall Street’s rally stalls as Nasdaq pulls back from its record.
• Elon Musk wants to turn SpaceX's Starbase site into a Texas city.
• US wholesale inflation accelerated in November in sign that some price pressures remain elevated.
• Average rate on 30-year mortgage hits 6.6%, its third straight weekly decline.
• Country star Morgan Wallen sentenced in chair-throwing case.
• 3 men say in lawsuits that Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs drugged and sexually assaulted them.
• The Rams close in on the Seahawks by beating the Niners, North Carolina makes it official with Belichick, Celtics roll without Tatum, Oilers blast Wild behind Draisait.
• US Olympic and Paralympic officials put coach on leave after AP reports sexual abuse allegations.
• Wander Franco's sex abuse trial has been postponed 5 months.
• Crown of Thorns returns to Notre Dame cathedral for public veneration.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — An American who turned up in Syria says he was detained after crossing into the country by foot on a Christian pilgrimage seven months ago. Travis Timmerman appears to have been among thousands of people released from the country’s notorious prisons after rebels reached Damascus over the weekend, overthrowing President Bashar Assad and ending his family’s 54-year rule. 

The U.N. General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved resolutions demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and expressing support for the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees that Israel has moved to ban. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — FBI Director Christopher Wray says he plans to resign at the end of President Joe Biden’s term in January. The announcement Wednesday comes a week and a half after President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate loyalist Kash Patel for the position. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump says he’s picking Kari Lake as director of Voice of America, installing a staunch loyalist who ran unsuccessfully for Arizona governor and a Senate seat to head the congressionally funded broadcaster that provides independent news reporting around the world. 

NEW YORK (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is back in his hometown of New York where he's been honored as Time magazine’s Person of the Year and will ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange. 

The gun found on the suspect in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson matches shell casings found at the crime scene, New York’s police commissioner said Wednesday. Commissioner Jessica Tisch also said lab results matched suspect Luigi Mangione’s prints to a water bottle and protein bar wrapper found near the scene of the killing. 

ROVANIEMI, Finland (AP) — More than 600,000 people annually visit Santa Claus Village, a winter-themed amusement park in the small town of Rovaniemi in Finland. They frolic in the snow, take a reindeer sleigh ride or even meet Saint Nick himself. 

GREEN LAKE, Wis. (AP) — Authorities say a Wisconsin man who faked his own drowning and left his wife and three children for Eastern Europe has willingly returned to the U.S. Ryan Borgwardt is charged with obstruction, a misdemeanor. A not-guilty plea was entered by a judge Wednesday, a day after Borgwardt's return.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Democrats failed in their bid to confirm a Democratic member of the National Labor Relations Board after the Senate rejected a razor-thin vote that hinged on the pivotal rejections of independent Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona. 

In other news:

• Biden commutes roughly 1,500 sentences and pardons 39 people in biggest single-day act of clemency.
• Blinken faces GOP critics in Congress who say Afghanistan withdrawal 'lit the world on fire.'
• House approves $895B defense bill with military pay raise, ban on transgender care for minors.
• Homeland Security shares new details of mysterious drone flights over New Jersey.
• Supreme Court allows investors' class action to proceed against microchip company Nvidia.
• US warns Russia may be ready to use new lethal missile against Ukraine again in 'coming days.'
• Stock market today Wall Street gets back to climbing, and the Nasdaq tops 20,000.
• US inflation ticked up last month as some price pressures remain persistent.
• Albertsons sues Kroger for failing to win approval of their proposed supermarket merger.
• Luxury real estate brokers charged with sex trafficking in NYC.
• Hannah Kobayashi, missing Hawaii woman whose disappearance prompted a massive search, is found safe.
• George Kresge Jr., who wowed talk show audiences as the The Amazing Kreskin, dies at age 89.
• Bill Belichick has a new coaching job, the NBA Cup completes its Final Four, the Rangers and Senators win the only two NHL games, and Garret Crochet is changing Sox in a big trade.
• FIFA names Saudi Arabia as 2034 World Cup host; Spain, Portugal and Morocco to co-host 2030 edition.
• South Korea's Yoon defends martial law as an act of governance and vows to 'fight to the end.'

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

• On today's episode: Chaos in Gaza as violence interupts the distribution of aid; the Trump administration has made a ceasefire proposal to Israel and Hamas; President Donald Trump will be in Pennsylvania today to support a deal with Nippon Steel; and there is a new Scripps National Spelling Bee champion. 
• State Department notifies Congress of reorganization plan with bigger cuts to programs and staff.
• US supercomputer named after Nobel laureate Jennifer Doudna to power AI and scientific research.
• What happens to Trump’s tariffs now that a court has knocked them down.
• White House acknowledges problems in RFK Jr.'s MAHA report.
• Trump administration increases pressure on 'sanctuary jurisdictions' with public listing.
• Man who blamed exposure to far-right content gets 3 years for threatening election officials.
• Federal judge extends order blocking Trump administration ban on foreign students at Harvard.
• Harvard grads cheer commencement speakers who urge the school to stand strong.
• New Orleans jail escapees caught following car chase in Texas; 2 inmates still on the run.
• Arizona police officer pulls woman from burning car.
• A global rally for stocks loses steam amid questions about what will happen to Trump's tariffs.
• Cosmetics company E.l.f acquires Hailey Bieber's Rhode beauty brand for $1 billion.
• Average rate on a US 30-year mortgage rises to 6.89%, its highest level since early February.
• The Knicks stave off elimination in the NBA Playoffs, the Oilers make it back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances, the Kraken hire a coach, a tennis icon overcomes injury to advance at Roland Garros, and Ben Griffin extends his hot streak at the Memorial.
• Average rate on a US 30-year mortgage rises to 6.89%, its highest level since early February.
• March Madness bracket expansion would add value and could be decided in next few months, Baker says.
• Russell Brand pleads not guilty to charges of rape and sexual assault in London court.
• Family of an Israeli held hostage in Iraq for 800 days hangs on to hope for her freedom.
• UN official says Russia isn't imminently turning on Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.
• Ursula von der Leyen honored with award for contributions to European unity

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

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The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

ALTOONA, Pa. (AP) — The man charged with murder in the killing of the CEO of UnitedHealthcare has made it clear he isn't going to make things easy for authorities. Luigi Mangione shouted unintelligibly and writhed in the grip of sheriff’s deputies as he was led into court Tuesday. And he objected to being taken to New York to face trial. 

MALIBU, Calif. (AP) — Weather conditions are forecast to improve this week in Southern California and aid firefighters in their battle against a wildfire that’s forced up to 20,000 people from their homes. Celebrities, including performers Cher, Dick Van Dyke and his wife, were among the evacuees.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Only about 2 in 10 Americans approve of President Joe Biden’s decision to pardon his son Hunter after earlier promising he'd do no such thing. That's according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

A federal judge has rejected the sale of the conspiracy platform Infowars to The Onion satirical news outlet after Alex Jones claimed that a recent bankruptcy auction was fraught with illegal collusion. The Onion was named the winning bidder on Nov. 14 over a company affiliated with Jones. U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez’s decision Tuesday night means Jones can stay at Infowars in Austin, Texas.

NEW YORK (AP) — Macy’s is reporting a decline in profits and sales for its third quarter with many customers of the department store chain continuing to divert spending to basics like groceries amid elevated prices. Company shares tumbled 7% before the opening bell Wednesday. 

In other news:

• Key details about the man accused of killing of UnitedHealthcare's CEO.
• DA suggests unusual idea for halting Trump’s hush money case while upholding his conviction.
• Biden says he was 'stupid' not to put his name on pandemic relief checks like Trump did.
• Task force probing attempts to kill Trump urges Secret Service to limit protection of foreigners.
• US says it will support new Syrian leaders who protect women and renounce terrorism.
• Woman killed in crash as officer responds to threat at Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's home.
• FBI says 2 Homeland Security agents in Utah sold illegal drugs for profit through informant.
• Stock market today: Wall Street slips to a rare back-to-back loss.
• Proposed merger of Kroger and Albertsons is halted by federal, state judges.
• Homes burn as wind-driven wildfire prompts evacuations in Malibu, California.
• Nikki Giovanni, poet and literary celebrity, has died at 81.
• The Bucks and Thunder advance to the NBA Cup semi-finals, AP top-ranked Tennessee beats Miami, the Yankees and lefty Max Freid agree to a big-money contract of historic proportions, and PGA star Scottie Scheffler wins another award. 
• Taiwan demands that China end its military activity in nearby waters.
• Ex-defense chief in South Korea tried to kill himself after being arrested over martial law.
• Organized crime gangs expanded into a third of cities in Brazil’s Amazon, report finds.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

Theme music

The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

ALTOONA, Pa. (AP) — Court records show New York prosecutors have charged a man with murder in the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO. Luigi Nicholas Mangione is currently being held without bail in Pennsylvania after he was arrested and arraigned on gun, forgery and other charges on Monday. He’s expected to be extradited to New York eventually. 

TEL AVIV, Israel — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lashed out at media during testimony at his corruption trial, which involves media moguls. He is accused of exchanging regulatory favors with media bosses for more positive coverage of himself and his family. He has denied wrongdoing.

PRINCETON, N.J. (AP) — Dozens of reported drone sightings across New Jersey in recent weeks can be frustrating, but they don’t appear to pose a public safety concern. That's what Gov. Phil Murphy stressed Monday. 

MALIBU, Calif. (AP) — Firefighters are battling a brushfire early in Malibu, California, near Pepperdine University that is prompting evacuations. 

PRINCETON, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy has signed a law to prohibit book bans in the state and enshrine protections against civil and criminal charges for librarians who comply with the law. 

NEW YORK (AP) — The oldest known stone tablet inscribed with the Ten Commandments, dating from 300 to 800 A.D., will be sold in New York this month. 

In other news:

• Tulsi Gabbard, Trump's pick for intel chief, faces questions on Capitol Hill amid Syria fallout.
• Trudeau says Americans are realizing that Trump's tariffs on Canada make life a lot more expensive.
• Lara Trump steps down as RNC co-chair and addresses speculation about Florida Senate seat.
• Biden creates Native American boarding school national monument to mark era of forced assimilation.
• Trump Organization leases brand to 2 new projects in Saudi Arabia.
• Military pauses Osprey flights again after more metal failures are found in near-crash in November.
• US hostage envoy in Beirut to seek information on missing journalist Austin Tice.
• US says terror designation doesn't bar talks with Syrian rebel group.
• A long road ahead to decide Syria’s future after rapid end to Assad’s rule.
• Stock market today Nvidia drags Wall Street from its records as oil and gold rise.
• TikTok asks federal appeals court to bar enforcement of potential ban until Supreme Court review.
• Boeing lays off hundreds in Washington and California as part of cuts announced previously.
• Veteran Daniel Penny is acquitted in NYC subway chokehold case over Jordan Neely's death.
• Polygamous sect leader gets 50 years in prison in scheme to orchestrate sex involving children.
• 'Emilia Pérez' leads Golden Globe nominations with 10, followed by 'The Brutalist' and 'Conclave.'
• Jay-Z says lawsuit accusing him of raping a child at MTV awards party is part of an extortion ploy.
• Joe Burrow’s late touchdown leads Bengals past Cowboys on Monday Night Football, Heisman Trophy finalists are announced, New York’s Karl-Anthony Towns out-duels former Knick R.J. Barrett and the Raptors, Taylor Hall helps the Blackhawks snap a lengthy skid with a win over the Rangers, and more. 
• Is it a military drill China deploys ships and planes around Taiwan but remains mum

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

Theme music

The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden says the sudden collapse of the Syrian government under Bashar Assad is a “fundamental act of justice” after decades of repression, but that it's “a moment of risk and uncertainty” for the Mideast. Speaking at the White House on Sunday, Biden credited action by the U.S. and its allies for weakening Syria's backers — Russia, Iran and Hezbollah. 

DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — Russia media say ousted Syrian leader Bashar Assad has fled to Moscow and received asylum from his longtime ally. The reports came hours after a stunning rebel advance swept into Damascus to cheers and ended the Assad family’s 50 years of iron rule. 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump says he can’t guarantee his promised tariffs on key U.S. foreign trade partners won’t raise prices for American consumers. And he's suggesting once more that some political rivals and federal officials who pursued legal cases against him should be imprisoned. The president-elect made the comments in a wide-ranging interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press” that aired Sunday.

NEW YORK (AP) — Police don’t know who he is, where he is, or why he did it. As the frustrating search for UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s killer got underway for a fifth day Sunday, investigators reckoned with a tantalizing contradiction: They have troves of evidence, but the shooter remains an enigma. One conclusion they are confident of, however: It was a targeted attack, not a random one. 

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Officials says two Turkish military helicopters have collided in midair, causing one of them to crash. Monday's crash in the southwestern province of Isparta left six military personnel dead, including one who died of injuries in a hospital. 

IZIUM, Ukraine (AP) — A volunteer group is trying to fulfill the holiday dreams of thousands of children living near the frontlines in Ukraine. The St. Nicholas’ Reindeers initiative publishes letters online detailing the children's wishes. 

In other news:

• The DNC chair candidates discuss Joe Biden, Kamala Harris and winning Latino voters.
• Military leaders are rattled by a list of 'woke' officers that a group urges Hegseth to fire.
• Trump receives a Paris welcome full of presidential pomp from France's Macron.
• Bureau of Prisons agrees to court monitor, public acknowledgement of staff-on-inmate sexual abuse.
• Kennedy Center pays tribute to Coppola, the Grateful Dead, Raitt, Sandoval and The Apollo.
• ‘Moana 2’ cruises to another record weekend and $600 million globally.
• Stolen ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in 'The Wizard of Oz' are auctioned for $28 million.
• Margie Szaroleta has the AP Entertainment Report, featuring an inconic prop from the Wizard of Oz.
• The college football playoff field is set. The Chiefs win another division title. The Vikings and Eagles keep pace with the NFC leading Lions, Baseball's biggest free agent chip has dropped and college basketball's top team goes down again.
• Earth's lands are drying out. Nations are trying to address it in talks this week.
• Hemingway look-alikes visit Cuba and some of the late writer's favorite places.
• South Korean prosecutors detain ex-defense chief over martial law imposition.
• Syrian rebels free prisoners from Assad's notorious dungeons who celebrate in Damascus streets.

—The Associated Press

About this program

Host Terry Lipshetz is managing editor of the national newsroom for Lee Enterprises. Besides producing the daily Hot off the Wire news podcast, Terry conducts periodic interviews for this Behind the Headlines program, co-hosts the Streamed & Screened movies and television program and is the former producer of Across the Sky, a podcast dedicated to weather and climate.

Theme music

The News Tonight, used under license from Soundstripe. YouTube clearance: ZR2MOTROGI4XAHRX