-
US employment increased by 119,000 jobs in September, exceeding forecasts, but underlying weaknesses persist. Rising layoffs, hiring decoupling, and economic risks continue to shape the labor market outlook as analysts debate AI's impact and recession signals.
-
Aiden Torres De Paz, 11, was fatally struck by Hector Balderas-Aheelor in Escondido, California, on Nov. 26. Balderas-Aheelor, an illegal immigrant deported multiple times, fled the scene and was charged with felony hit-and-run. The case raises ongoing debates over immigration enforcement and local safety.
-
Since December 10, 2025, former President Trump has intensified racist comments targeting Somali immigrants and their representatives, including Ilhan Omar, amid ongoing immigration policies and political tensions. His remarks have sparked widespread condemnation and concern over rising xenophobia in the US and globally.
-
A gang-related shooting at a Stockton birthday party on November 29 resulted in four deaths, including children aged 8, 9, and 14, and a 21-year-old. Over a dozen others were wounded. No suspects have been arrested, and the attack appears targeted, linked to ongoing gang violence in the area.
-
San Francisco has filed a lawsuit against 10 food and beverage companies, accusing them of marketing ultra-processed foods linked to health issues like obesity and diabetes. The city seeks penalties, consumer education, and restrictions on marketing, especially to children, citing scientific evidence of harm. The lawsuit marks a first for a U.S. municipality targeting such companies.
-
President Trump announced plans to significantly weaken fuel economy standards for new vehicles, reversing Biden-era policies aimed at promoting electric cars and reducing emissions. The move aims to lower costs for consumers but faces criticism from environmentalists and some automakers. The policy is set for finalization next year.
-
Fuel prices in the UK and US remain high amid falling oil prices, with UK pump prices not reflecting recent oil cost declines. US gas prices are also low but are expected to rise due to increased exports and inflation. Experts highlight industry profit margins and policy impacts as key factors.
-
Zohran Mamdani, NYC's incoming mayor, unveils a coalition of over 100 officials supporting his socialist agenda, but faces opposition from prominent Democrats and DSA members who criticize his endorsements and political alliances ahead of his inauguration.
-
The US Supreme Court has temporarily blocked a lower court ruling that found Texas's new congressional map racially gerrymandered. The map, which favors Republicans, will remain in effect for the 2026 midterms, amid ongoing legal challenges. The decision reflects a broader trend of partisan redistricting efforts across the US.
-
The US Bureau of Reclamation announced a new plan to operate California's Central Valley Project, increasing water flow to farms following a Trump-era executive order. Critics warn this could harm ecosystems and water delivery, while supporters say it boosts water resilience amid ongoing drought and environmental concerns.
-
Recent incidents at US schools include a swastika formed by students at Branham High School and antisemitic content at Columbia University. Authorities and advocacy groups are investigating, condemning hate, and working to protect Jewish students amid rising antisemitism following the Gaza conflict.
-
A federal appeals court in the U.S. has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from using remaining California National Guard troops in Los Angeles, ruling that conditions have changed and the deployment is illegal. The decision halts the military presence, which had lasted six months amid protests over immigration enforcement.
-
On December 11, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aiming to preempt state-level AI regulations by establishing a unified federal framework. The order directs the Attorney General to challenge state laws deemed burdensome and threatens to withhold federal funding from states enforcing conflicting AI rules. This move has ignited bipartisan opposition, legal challenges, and fierce pushback from states like California, which have enacted their own AI safety laws.
-
The Pentagon escalated its review of Senator Mark Kelly to a formal investigation over allegations of misconduct after he publicly urged troops to refuse unlawful orders. The move follows Kelly's video message supporting soldiers' right to disobey illegal commands, prompting political and legal controversy amid ongoing military and domestic deployments.
-
As of December 2025, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) has chosen not to release its post-2024 election autopsy report, citing concerns it would distract from efforts to win the 2026 midterms. The report, based on over 300 interviews, highlights failures in outreach to young voters and public safety concerns. Meanwhile, fundraising struggles continue for the DNC, contrasting with the Republican National Committee's stronger financial position. Concurrently, former President Trump’s administration has deepened tensions with Europe, labeling it "decaying" and backing nationalist parties opposing immigration, further straining transatlantic relations amid the Ukraine conflict.
-
Multiple US states are implementing local environmental solutions. South Dakota uses prescribed burns to restore grasslands, Texas advances geothermal energy storage, Arkansas promotes renewable energy, and California adjusts water management amid policy debates. These efforts reflect diverse regional approaches to environmental challenges.
-
The Biden-era fuel economy standards are being significantly reduced under the Trump administration, aiming to lower vehicle costs and boost sales of larger, more profitable vehicles. Critics warn this will increase pollution and fuel costs, reversing progress on climate goals.
-
A U.S. Court of Appeals panel ruled that President Trump likely has a constitutional right to deploy the National Guard in D.C., overturning a lower court decision that limited his authority. The ruling emphasizes the president's unique power over federal districts, but is not final. The case stems from ongoing legal disputes over military deployment and local authority.
-
The US government has intensified efforts to restrict immigrant drivers amid safety concerns, targeting asylum seekers, refugees, and DACA recipients. Several states face federal funding threats over licensing issues, amid ongoing legal challenges and safety debates. The story highlights tensions between immigration policy and public safety.
-
On Sunday, December 15, 2025, acclaimed director Rob Reiner, 78, and his wife Michele Singer Reiner, 68, were found stabbed to death in their Brentwood, Los Angeles home. Their 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, with a history of addiction and mental health struggles, was arrested and is charged with their murders. The case is under active investigation.
-
A Los Angeles hearing on California's new congressional map pits the state against the Justice Department in a legal battle over gerrymandering and race-based districting. The lawsuit seeks a temporary restraining order before candidates can officially file for 2026 elections. The case highlights national tensions over redistricting and partisan control of Congress.
-
President Trump delivered a 20-minute speech blaming Biden for economic issues, criticizing foreign policy, and boasting about military bonuses. The tone was combative and lacked empathy, raising questions about his mental state and political future amid declining approval ratings.
-
On December 24, 2025, the US Justice Department announced the discovery of over one million additional documents related to Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking case, days after missing the legal deadline to release all files. The department is reviewing the materials to protect victims' identities before public release, amid bipartisan criticism over delays and redactions.
-
An uninvited 550-pound black bear has been living under an Altadena home for over three weeks, disrupting the holiday season. Authorities attempted to remove the bear using scent spray and a trap, successfully relocating it to a suitable habitat. The homeowner hopes for the bear's departure before Christmas.
-
In 2025, the US experienced significant policy shifts affecting clean energy. The Biden administration faced setbacks with reduced subsidies and increased tariffs, while California advanced its renewable energy goals. The year was marked by industry resilience amid political opposition and policy uncertainty.
-
Nicki Minaj appeared at a conservative conference praising Donald Trump and JD Vance, criticizing industry backlash and speaking out on Christian persecution in Nigeria. Her support marks a notable shift from her previous criticism of Trump, sparking mixed reactions among fans and industry observers.
-
Recent articles highlight ongoing debates over homelessness policies in California. The New York Times discusses the effectiveness of Housing First, which has reduced veteran homelessness. Meanwhile, local politicians criticize the state's handling, calling for more transparency and enforcement. The controversy underscores the complex challenge of addressing homelessness.
-
Recent elections and legal challenges across the US highlight ongoing political shifts. Iowa Democrats secured a key Senate seat, preventing a GOP supermajority, while legal disputes threaten to reshape congressional districts nationwide. The Supreme Court's upcoming decision on race-based districts could significantly impact future elections.
-
Multiple U.S. states have enacted new laws effective today, including Hawaii's climate-related cruise tax, Utah's stricter alcohol ID checks, and California's affordable insulin sales. These policies aim to address climate resilience, public safety, and healthcare affordability, reflecting innovative approaches at the state level.
-
A series of atmospheric rivers have caused severe flooding, mudslides, and evacuations across Southern California, especially in wildfire-affected areas. The storm began on Christmas Eve, with ongoing rescue efforts and warnings of further heavy rain and snow. Authorities warn of continued danger through Christmas and beyond.
-
A series of atmospheric river storms have caused severe weather across California, including flooding, mudslides, and avalanches. At least two deaths have been reported, and emergency responses are ongoing as residents prepare for more heavy rain and snow.
-
New York Governor Hochul proposes eliminating state income taxes on up to $25,000 in tips, aligning with federal policy. Meanwhile, many states are not adopting recent federal tax provisions, affecting workers and budgets. The IRS predicts larger refunds due to unadjusted withholding from 2025 law.
-
Scientists confirm 2025 as one of the hottest years on record, driven by human activity. Extreme weather events increased in frequency and severity, highlighting the urgent need for global adaptation efforts. Despite some progress, international climate talks failed to deliver decisive action, leaving vulnerable nations at risk.
-
California's high-speed rail project faces new setbacks as federal funding is terminated amid reports of delays, rising costs, and missed deadlines. The state is pursuing private investment to continue construction, which has only completed a fraction of the planned route since its approval in 2008. The dispute highlights ongoing political and financial challenges.
-
New research shows Miami, Las Vegas, and Seattle now attract more top Instagram influencers per capita than Los Angeles. The trend reflects creators' desire for lower costs, vibrant communities, and new opportunities outside traditional entertainment centers, with LA's dominance waning amid industry shifts.
-
President Trump vetoed the bipartisan Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit Act, which aimed to fund clean water projects in Colorado. Critics suggest the veto is linked to political retaliation, including his support for Tina Peters and opposition to recent bipartisan efforts. The veto sparks bipartisan efforts to override it.
-
On December 31, 2025, President Trump announced the removal of National Guard troops from Chicago, Los Angeles, and Portland, citing reduced crime. The deployments faced multiple legal challenges, including a Supreme Court ruling blocking troop presence in Chicago. Trump warned troops could return if crime rises, framing the move as part of his tough-on-crime agenda ahead of 2026 midterms.
-
The Trump Organization's planned $499 T1 smartphone, announced last June, faces delays due to the government shutdown. The device's US manufacturing claims are disputed, and the company now offers refurbished phones amid ongoing production uncertainties.
-
As of early January 2026, severe storms and flooding have impacted Southern California, southern Spain, and Indonesia. Southern California faced record rainfall and mudslides following atmospheric rivers, causing deaths and evacuations. Spain's Costa del Sol experienced flooding from Storm Francis, forcing hundreds to evacuate. Indonesia's Sulawesi island suffered flash floods and landslides, with dozens dead and many displaced.
-
The expiration of pandemic-era health subsidies in the US has led to significant premium increases for millions, with congressional inaction risking more Americans dropping coverage. The issue highlights ongoing political disputes over healthcare funding and affordability, just ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
-
A split panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that California's restriction on open carry in urban areas violates the Second Amendment. The decision questions the state's long-standing gun laws, with potential implications for gun rights and regulations nationwide. The ruling follows a lawsuit by Siskiyou County resident Mark Baird.