Clash Between Protesters and Police Erupts in Russian Republic of Bashkortostan

In an unusual display of public outrage, hundreds of protesters clashed with police in the Russian republic of Bashkortostan following the conviction and imprisonment of local activist Fail Alsynov, according to media reports and rights groups.

The unrest, occurring in the town of Baymak, approximately 870 miles southeast of Moscow, marked one of the largest reported demonstrations since the beginning of the war in Ukraine in 2022. Alsynov was convicted of inciting hatred and sentenced to four years in prison, sparking outrage among supporters who had gathered outside the courthouse.

The crowd, numbering several thousand, chanted in support of Alsynov and demanded the removal of Bashkortostan's governor. The police responded with teargas and batons, leading to the dispersal of the crowd. Chants of "Fail, we stand with you!" and calls for "Freedom!" and "Disgrace!" resonated as protesters hurled snowballs at officers. Dozens of people were detained and injured during the clashes.

Alsynov, a leader of the outlawed group Bashkort, which advocated for preserving the Bashkir language and culture, faced charges related to a speech at an unsanctioned rally against gold mining last year. The group was declared extremist in 2020 for protesting limestone and gold mining operations in the region.

Governor Radiy Khabirov filed a complaint against Alsynov, accusing him of denigrating other nationalities and inciting anti-government actions. Despite the conviction, Alsynov maintained his innocence, stating that he had always fought for justice and the well-being of his people.

The protests, reported as one of the largest in Russia since the Ukraine invasion, come just two months before the presidential election, widely expected to secure Vladimir Putin's fifth term in office. The Kremlin has not provided immediate comments on the protests.

Russia's top law enforcement agency, the Investigative Committee, announced the opening of a criminal case on charges of fomenting mass riots and assaulting police officers. Additionally, several social media pages reporting on the protests or serving as a platform for the local community have been blocked, according to the Russian independent news outlet Meduza.

GOP's Contempt Bid Against Hunter Biden Appears Temporarily Halted

Efforts by House Republicans to hold Hunter Biden in contempt of Congress seem to be on hold after recent discussions with his attorneys, which could result in the president's son testifying in the near future.

This development comes after Hunter Biden's surprise appearance at a congressional oversight committee meeting last week, where Republicans complained about his refusal to make himself available for closed-door testimony in defiance of their subpoena.

The panel, in conjunction with the judiciary committee, voted to advance contempt resolutions to the full House, but both resolutions are currently on hold. This suspension is the result of ongoing negotiations between both sides seeking cooperation for a new date for Hunter Biden to testify in the Republican-led impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden.

Lawyers for Hunter Biden challenged the legality of the subpoenas, arguing that they were "legally invalid" as they predated the December House vote authorizing the impeachment push. Both committee chairs, Republicans James Comer and Jim Jordan, have expressed their willingness to recommend delaying the contempt vote if Biden cooperates and works to set a date for a closed-door deposition.

Hunter Biden, who initially insisted on testifying only in an open session, has since expressed his willingness to accept new subpoenas to provide evidence in private. His lead lawyer, Abbe Lowell, wrote to Comer and Jordan, stating, "If you issue a new proper subpoena, now that there is a duly authorized impeachment inquiry, Mr. Biden will comply for a hearing or deposition."

Negotiations between the parties are ongoing, and both sides are working to schedule Hunter Biden's appearance. The House Rules Committee is not currently considering the contempt resolution, providing additional time for attorneys to reach an agreement.

Republicans seek Hunter Biden's testimony as part of their investigation into unproven allegations of corruption involving his father. Democrats argue that Republicans are seeking private testimony because they know there is no evidence to implicate the president.

The contempt moves against Hunter Biden and the impeachment inquiry against his father are viewed by Democrats as part of a broader effort to smear the president as he seeks re-election later this year.

In a separate development, Hunter Biden's Hollywood attorney, Kevin Morris, is scheduled to participate in "transcribed interviews" with members of the House oversight, judiciary, and ways and means committees on Thursday, according to NBC. Morris has emerged as a key figure in Hunter Biden's legal troubles in California and played a role in arranging payments for outstanding tax obligations to the IRS.

Climate Scientist's Defamation Lawsuit Against Rightwing Blogger and Analyst Finally Heads to Trial

After more than a decade since its initiation, a defamation lawsuit filed by renowned climate scientist Michael Mann is set to go to trial this week. Mann, an earth and environmental scientist at the University of Pennsylvania, alleges that online attacks by a rightwing blogger and an analyst amount to defamation.

Initiated in 2012, the legal action targets two individuals: Rand Simberg, an analyst at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, who likened Mann to a convicted serial child molester in a published piece, and Mark Steyn, a National Review blogger who, in a blogpost, quoted Simberg favorably and referred to Mann's research as "fraudulent." While Mann initially pursued legal action against both publishers as well, a court ruling in 2021 determined that neither the Competitive Enterprise Institute nor the National Review could be held responsible for the attacks.

The trial is occurring against a backdrop of growing concerns about increased online abuse directed at climate scientists and the proliferation of misinformation regarding the climate crisis.

Mann's legal battle is seen as part of a broader campaign against him by a network of climate skeptics associated with the fossil fuel billionaire Charles Koch. The Competitive Enterprise Institute, advocating against "climate alarmism," has financial ties to the Charles Koch Foundation, while the National Review regularly publishes articles dismissing climate science concern as alarmist and has received funding linked to Koch.

The attacks on Mann intensified after he co-published the famous "hockey stick" graph in 1998, illustrating unprecedented global warming in the last century. This drew the attention of groups within the Koch network, leading to freedom of information requests and a subpoena served by a Republican congressman supported by a Pac established by Koch.

Opening statements for the trial are set to commence on Thursday, with livestreaming available. The trial is scheduled to continue through at least February 6, with its conclusion dependent on a jury verdict.

Republicans Shift Focus to New Hampshire as Trump Secures Record Victory in Iowa

After Donald Trump's decisive win in the Iowa caucuses, Republican candidates are turning their attention to the upcoming New Hampshire primaries. Trump secured over half the votes in Iowa, setting the stage for a fierce battle against Democratic nominee Joe Biden.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis claimed second place in Iowa, with former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley finishing third. Haley, who emphasizes the role of New Hampshire in "correcting" the Iowa outcome, is currently polling second to Trump in the state.

New Hampshire, known for its moderate and libertarian-leaning Republicanism, holds a "semi-open" primary, allowing non-party registered voters to participate, favoring perceived centrist candidates. Haley, endorsed by the state governor, Chris Sununu, has actively campaigned in New Hampshire, while DeSantis concentrated efforts in Iowa.

Trump, facing legal challenges, emerged with a significant lead in Iowa, winning 51% support, followed by DeSantis at 21% and Haley at 19%. Trump aims to expedite the Republican selection process with early primary victories.

Reacting to the Iowa results, Biden framed the upcoming election as a battle against "extreme MAGA Republicans" and urged supporters to contribute to his campaign. Trump's enduring popularity among Republicans, despite legal issues and the Capitol attack, remains evident.

While Trump's legal troubles persist, including 91 criminal charges, he maintains a strong lead among Republicans. Nearly two-thirds of Iowa caucus-goers embraced his false claims of voter fraud, and over 60% believe he would still be fit for the presidency if convicted of a crime.

With Trump's nomination seemingly on a fast track, DeSantis and Haley pledged to continue their campaigns, although DeSantis faces funding challenges after a less-than-expected performance in Iowa. Despite internal party dynamics, Trump's popularity endures among Republican voters.

Severe Cold in US Leaving Over 85,000 Without Power and Disrupting Daily Life

The freezing weather gripping the United States has left more than 85,000 homes and businesses without power, particularly in Oregon where widespread outages began on Saturday. Dangerously cold temperatures, with wind chills dropping below –30F (–34.4C) in central US regions, have prompted concerns about safety and infrastructure.

The impact of the freezing conditions is widespread, leading to class cancellations in major cities like Portland, Chicago, Denver, Dallas, and Fort Worth. Transportation officials are urging residents to avoid travel due to hazardous road conditions caused by slick ice, which could lead to fallen trees and power lines.

In the Portland area alone, at least four deaths have been reported, including two from suspected hypothermia. Other fatalities include a man killed when a tree fell on his house and a woman who died in a fire sparked by an open-flame stove after a tree fell onto an RV. In Wisconsin, three deaths of homeless individuals in the Milwaukee area are under investigation, with hypothermia believed to be the likely cause.

The threat of freezing rain and sleet continues into Tuesday morning across parts of the southeast, leading to winter storm warnings in multiple states, including Alabama, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. The severe conditions are affecting daily life, from air travel disruptions to the postponement of NFL playoff games and even impacting Iowa's presidential caucuses.

Despite the frigid temperatures, fans still turned out to support the Buffalo Bills at a snow-covered Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York, where temperatures dropped to 10F (–12.2C). Meanwhile, the first-in-the-nation Iowa caucuses recorded the coldest temperatures on record, with a –3F (–19.4C) reading in Des Moines.

The severe weather conditions have led to widespread flight delays and cancellations, with approximately 2,900 flight disruptions reported within, into, or out of the US, according to the flight tracking service FlightAware.com. The adverse weather continues to impact various aspects of daily life, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness in the face of extreme cold.

MyPillow CEO, a Trump Ally, Expands Conspiratorial TV Network Amidst Legal Battles

Mike Lindell, the CEO of MyPillow and a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, is making moves to expand his conspiratorial TV network while actively promoting Trump's election denial claims. Lindell, currently facing defamation lawsuits from electronic voting firms Dominion Voting Systems and Smartmatic, is undeterred as he pursues the growth of his television network.

His network, Lindell TV, has enlisted Lou Dobbs, a former Fox Business star known for election conspiracies and Trump allegiance, for a five-day-a-week show. The debut episode featured a Trump interview filled with controversial statements, including false claims about gas prices and speculations on the economy.

Lindell's TV lineup also includes Steve Bannon and Roger Stone, both known for promoting election conspiracies. Bannon and Stone, who received pardons from Trump, are set to contribute to Lindell's platform. Despite Lindell's legal battles and criticism, he remains determined to assert his narrative about alleged election fraud through electronic voting machines.

Investing $14 million in his TV ventures since 2021, Lindell aims to amplify the influence of his network, reaching millions of viewers. He is also actively involved in Trump's political endeavors, speaking at rallies and participating in events hosted by Maga-allied groups.

However, Lindell's promotion of election fraud conspiracies has raised concerns among election watchdogs and political veterans. Critics argue that his efforts contribute to the spread of misinformation, undermining confidence in the democratic process. Despite legal challenges and criticism, Lindell remains steadfast in his mission, emphasizing his commitment to promoting his version of the 2020 election events.

"US Military Thwarts Houthi Missile Targeting Warship in Red Sea Amid Escalating Tensions"

In a recent development, US fighter aircraft successfully intercepted an anti-ship cruise missile launched from a Houthi-controlled region in Yemen, aimed at a US warship in the Red Sea. The incident occurred in the Southern Red Sea, where the USS Laboon was operating, marking a notable event as the first reported attempt on a US destroyer.

The US Central Command released a statement confirming the missile interception, assuring that no injuries or damage were sustained during the incident. The episode unfolded amidst heightened tensions in the Red Sea following the US-UK bombing of rebel-held areas in Yemen, prompting warnings from the Houthi rebels and their allies of potential military retaliation.

Initial assessments from the US suggested that the recent bombing only eliminated approximately a quarter of the Houthis' missile and drone attack capabilities, leading to concerns about possible further hostilities. Houthi supporter Hussain al-Bukhaiti indicated that attacks on merchant shipping in the strategically crucial waterway south of the Suez Canal would persist due to the perceived conflict with Israel.

Al-Bukhaiti went on to suggest that, in response to continued airstrikes by the US and UK, Houthi forces might escalate their actions against Western warships, potentially utilizing drones and missiles on a larger scale. Such a move would represent a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions.

The UK Foreign Secretary, David Cameron, emphasized that the West is prepared to back its words with actions if Houthi attacks persist. Both US and UK warships remain on high alert in the region, closely monitoring the evolving situation.

Recent incidents in the Red Sea have raised concerns about maritime safety. The Maritime Trade Operations (MTO) reported an episode involving two small boats approaching a merchant vessel, attempting to alter its course in the southern Red Sea. Although the incident appeared relatively minor, it underscores the potential risks and uncertainties in the region.

As geopolitical tensions continue to unfold, the international community closely watches developments in the Red Sea, which serves as a vital maritime trade route. The US military's successful interception of the Houthi missile reinforces the need for heightened vigilance and diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation in this strategically significant region.

Frigid US Winter Storms Threaten to Smash Low-Temperature Records

Icy winter conditions gripped the United States on Saturday as a series of Arctic storms loomed, posing a threat to break low-temperature records across the heartland. The cold wave extended from coast to coast, impacting various activities, from football playoffs to presidential campaigns.

As the three-day Martin Luther King Jr Day holiday weekend kicked off, the weather forecast painted a diverse picture of color-coded advisories, including ice storm warnings in Oregon, blizzard warnings in the northern plains, and high wind warnings in New Mexico.

"It's overall been a terrible, terrible winter. And it came out of nowhere – two days," remarked Dan Abinana in Des Moines, Iowa. The state experienced heavy snowfall, leaving residents grappling with unexpected winter challenges.

In Portland, Oregon, an investigation into a hypothermia death was initiated as the city, unaccustomed to severe winter conditions, faced freezing rain and heavy snow. Other weather-related deaths were reported in California, Idaho, Illinois, and Wisconsin earlier in the week.

Nebraska declared a state of emergency due to hazardous conditions, with up to 2 feet of snowfall in some areas and wind chills well below zero. Over 1,700 miles of Nebraska highways were closed, and state police assisted stranded motorists.

Roads in Iowa faced challenges, with some cars stuck for hours on Interstate 80, leaving 100 vehicles trapped. State troopers dealt with numerous crashes and motorist-assist calls. Governors from New York to Louisiana urged residents to brace for worrisome weather.

Parts of Montana experienced temperatures below -30°F (-34°C), with similar frigid conditions expected in northern Kansas and the Dakotas. St. Louis faced rare and "life-threatening" cold. The National Weather Service warned of record-breaking low temperatures.

Multiple back-to-back storms have swept across the country, causing disruptions and challenges. Despite the extreme weather, dedicated Trump supporters faced cancellations of campaign events by contenders Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, and former President Donald Trump.

Power outages affected hundreds of thousands of households and businesses, particularly in Michigan, Oregon, and Wisconsin. Record-high tides in the northeast led to flooding in Maine and New Hampshire.

With temperatures expected to drop as low as -14°F (-26°C) in parts of Iowa on the day of the caucuses, the weather poses challenges for voters and candidates alike. The winter storms continue to impact various aspects of daily life and raise concerns about prolonged cold weather across the country.

Mississippi Rejects Child Food Program Amidst Republican Critique of 'Welfare State'

Mississippi's governor, Tate Reeves, a Republican, has declared the state's withdrawal from a federal program aimed at providing food assistance to children during their summer break from school. The decision, characterized as a rejection of "attempts to expand the welfare state," means that low-income families in Mississippi will not receive electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards to supplement food costs when academic classes are out of session, according to Mississippi Today.

Under the federal program, eligible families would have received $40 per month, totaling $120 to cover the period between school terms. However, Mississippi's welfare agency cited a lack of capacity to administer the program, stating that both the Mississippi Department of Education and the Department of Human Services lack the necessary resources, including workforce capacity and funding.

Governor Reeves faced strong criticism for the decision, with scholar Nikole Hannah-Jones condemning it as "cruelty." Others, like author Keith Boykin, pointed out that funds allocated for welfare in Mississippi have been directed to non-essential projects, such as a sports stadium.

Reeves is among 15 Republican governors who have opted out of the federally funded food program designed to support children during the summer break. Other states rejecting the program include Alabama, Oklahoma, Alaska, Florida, South Carolina, South Dakota, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, Vermont, and Wyoming. Over 8 million children are expected to be affected by the rejection of the federal food assistance program, which provides $2.5 billion in aid to qualifying families.

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, another Republican, had also announced in December that Iowa would not participate in the program, claiming it was not a "long-term" solution and did not promote nutrition. Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, who rejected federal funding, expressed a general disbelief in welfare, according to the Washington Post.

Bernie Sanders Expresses Concerns Over Potential Trump Victory and Urges Action

Bernie Sanders, the prominent U.S. Senator, recently shared his apprehensions about the possible consequences of a second Trump presidency. In an interview, Sanders warned that such an outcome could pose a severe threat to democracy, gradually undermining its foundations.

Sanders highlighted the need to address urgent issues, such as climate change, the rise of oligarchy, and threats to democracy. He emphasized that a second term for Trump could lead to a more extreme administration, fueled by personal bitterness and a desire for retribution.

While Sanders acknowledged that not all Trump supporters are driven by prejudiced beliefs, he pointed out that many Americans feel let down by the government's failure to address their needs. He criticized the Democratic party's approach, calling for a more proactive stance that goes beyond merely presenting themselves as a better alternative to Republicans.

In the context of the Israeli-Hamas conflict, Sanders, who is of Jewish descent, expressed personal distress over the violence. He defended Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas but condemned the indiscriminate bombing that has resulted in civilian casualties.

Sanders called for a nuanced approach to the conflict, advocating for a two-state solution. However, his position has faced criticism from both pro-Israel and progressive factions.

Looking ahead to the 2024 election, Sanders urged President Joe Biden to take bold actions to address the concerns of working-class Americans. He stressed the importance of delivering on promises related to climate change, healthcare, and income inequality to avoid a potential victory for Trump.

Despite being candid about feeling tired after a long political career, Sanders remains committed to advocating for future generations. He concluded by emphasizing the moral responsibility to stand up and address pressing issues rather than walking away from the challenges at hand.

"Taiwan's Ruling Party's Lai Ching-te Emerges Victorious in Presidential Election"

Lai Ching-te, the presidential candidate representing Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has secured victory in an election that China had framed as a pivotal choice between war and peace. Lai's opponent, Hou Yu-ih from the Kuomintang (KMT), Taiwan's main opposition party, conceded defeat, marking a significant outcome in a race that underscored tensions between Taiwan and China.

The DPP, which advocates for Taiwan's distinct identity and rejects China's territorial claims, sought an unprecedented third term under Taiwan's current electoral system. Lai faced opposition from KMT's Hou and Ko Wen-je, the former Taipei mayor representing the Taiwan People's Party, established in 2019.

Speaking to reporters in Tainan before the election, Lai urged citizens to exercise their voting rights, emphasizing the value of each vote in Taiwan's hard-earned democracy.

Leading up to the election, China consistently labeled Lai as a dangerous separatist, dismissing his calls for talks. Despite this, Lai maintained his commitment to preserving peace in the Taiwan Strait and reinforcing the island's defenses.

On the day of the election, Taiwan's defense ministry reported the sighting of Chinese balloons crossing the sensitive strait, denouncing them as psychological warfare and a threat to aviation safety.

Hou, aiming to restart engagement through people-to-people exchanges, accused Lai of supporting Taiwan's formal independence, a claim vehemently denied by Lai. Meanwhile, Ko, known for his focus on bread-and-butter issues like the high cost of housing, garnered passionate support, particularly among young voters.

The outcome of the parliamentary elections holds equal importance, especially if no party secures a majority. This could potentially impede the new president's ability to pass legislation, particularly in defense matters.

As the outgoing president, Tsai Ing-wen, is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election after two terms, the election results mark a significant transition in Taiwan's political landscape.

Jo Koy Responds to Golden Globes Hosting Backlash

Jo Koy has addressed the criticism surrounding his hosting performance at this year's Golden Globes. The last-minute selection faced negative reactions online and within the venue, with one director labeling it "a disaster" and Vanity Fair's Richard Lawson describing the opening monologue as a "horrid, sophomoric mishmash of lazy jokes."

Speaking on ABC's GMA3: What You Need to Know, Koy acknowledged the challenges of hosting and expressed that he had fun despite the tough room. He admitted to feeling hurt by the backlash but emphasized his love for the experience. Koy described hosting as a different style and mentioned the tight schedule of 10 days to write the monologue.

During the awards, Koy's jokes covered topics like Barry Keoghan's on-screen nudity, Ozempic, Oppenheimer's length, Barbie, and Taylor Swift's connection to the NFL. The joke about Taylor Swift received a less-than-enthusiastic response from the star, and Koy acknowledged it as a moment he regretted, explaining that it was meant as a jab toward the NFL but didn't come out that way.

Despite characterizing it as "an off night" and admitting he fell short, Koy expressed pride in his effort and a desire to share more of himself. The 2024 Golden Globes, featuring notable wins for "Oppenheimer" and "Succession," saw increased viewership on CBS, with 9.4 million viewers, up 50% from the move from NBC, aided by a lead-in from Sunday Night Football, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Federal Appeals Court to Determine Legality of Prosecuting Trump for 2020 Election Interference

A federal appeals court in Washington is set to deliberate on Tuesday morning over whether former President Donald Trump can face criminal prosecution for federal charges related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Trump, who has announced his attendance at the hearing via his Truth Social platform, appealed last month after a trial judge dismissed his attempt to dismiss the charges, arguing he had absolute immunity.

The court's decision and the time it takes to issue a ruling will have significant implications for the scheduled March trial. Trump's legal team contends that all actions to reverse the election defeat fall within the "outer perimeter" of his presidential duties, providing protection. However, this argument was rejected by the trial judge, who emphasized that former presidents do not enjoy special conditions of federal criminal liability.

The appeal process is seen as Trump's strategy to delay the trial, which is scheduled for March 5, and potentially extend it beyond the 2024 election. The former president hopes that winning re-election would offer the opportunity for a pardon or the dismissal of charges. The special counsel, Jack Smith, attempted to expedite the process by involving the US Supreme Court, but the request was declined, leading to the case's return to the DC circuit for a decision.

Allegations of Epstein Possessing "Sex Tapes" Involving Prince Andrew and Bill Clinton Raised in Unsealed Documents video

Newly unsealed documents reveal that Jeffrey Epstein's defense team attempted to undermine the credibility of a witness by disclosing her claims that the billionaire had "sex tapes" involving prominent figures, including Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton, and Sir Richard Branson. The allegations were made by Sarah Ransome and were presented to question her credibility, emphasizing her retraction of the claims shortly after making them.

Ransome, who provided a victim impact statement during Ghislaine Maxwell's sex trafficking sentencing, accused Epstein in emails of filming the mentioned individuals engaging in sexual activities. The court received no evidence of the tapes' existence. Ransome also made serious accusations against former US President Donald Trump.

Prince Andrew, facing controversy over his association with Epstein, stepped down from public life and settled a civil sexual assault case with Virginia Giuffre. Giuffre accused him of sexual assault, which he denies. The unsealed documents were part of Giuffre's previously settled civil claim against Maxwell.

The documents also included images, including a resurfaced photo of former Labour minister Peter Mandelson with Epstein on Little St James, Epstein's private island. Other pictures featured Maxwell with Jean Luc-Brunel and girls posing for photos on the island in 2006.

Ransome's claims in the emails stated that sex tapes were filmed during separate occasions involving Clinton, Prince Andrew, and Branson. However, her claims were later withdrawn, and she apologized for her statements. A firm representing Epstein's lawyer, Alan Dershowitz, emphasized the lack of credibility in Ransome's testimony, categorically dismissing the allegations.

Virgin Group, representing Branson, called Ransome's claims baseless and unfounded, citing her admission in a 2019 New Yorker report that she had "invented" the tapes. Ransome's emails also targeted Hillary Clinton and Trump, expressing intentions to release the footage and photos to WikiLeaks.

Epstein, who faced sex-trafficking charges, died in jail in 2019, ruled as suicide. Maxwell has been imprisoned since July 2020 on sex trafficking charges.

CJ Stroud Leads Houston Texans to Playoff Berth with Win Over Colts

Rookie quarterback CJ Stroud showcased his talent as the Houston Texans secured a playoff spot with a 23-19 victory against the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday night. The decisive moment came when Devin Singletary scored a go-ahead touchdown with a three-yard run, leaving the Texans at a 10-7 record and heading to the playoffs for the first time since 2019. The team's impressive performance in the final stretch of the season positions them to potentially win the AFC South if Jacksonville loses to Tennessee.

Stroud, with a 20-of-26 completion rate, 264 yards, and two touchdowns, played a crucial role in the victory. Wide receiver Nico Collins contributed significantly with nine catches for 195 yards and a touchdown, while Singletary added 64 yards on 24 carries. Despite the Colts' late-game efforts, including a missed fourth-and-1 opportunity, the Texans sealed the win, eliminating the Colts from playoff contention.

In a game marked by unique moments, including Stroud's 75-yard TD pass to Collins on the first play and a do-over play in the second half, the Texans demonstrated resilience. Jonathan Taylor's outstanding performance for the Colts, rushing 30 times for 188 yards and a touchdown, wasn't enough to secure a postseason berth. The game's momentum shifted when Colts coach Shane Steichen opted for a 57-yard field goal, leading to the Texans taking the lead with a 51-yard field goal from Ka'imi Fairbairn.

In another critical AFC matchup, the Pittsburgh Steelers claimed a 17-10 victory over the Baltimore Ravens. Quarterback Mason Rudolph threw a 71-yard touchdown pass to Diontae Johnson in the fourth quarter, propelling the Steelers to a 10-7 record. The win puts the Steelers in playoff contention, pending outcomes in other games on Sunday. Despite the absence of key players for the Ravens, including MVP favorite Lamar Jackson, the Steelers faced challenges, and TJ Watt left the game with a knee injury.

As the regular season concludes, these impactful victories set the stage for an exciting playoff race in the AFC.

Trump Surrogates Take Center Stage in Iowa as Caucus Approaches

The atmosphere in Sioux City, Iowa, seemed like a typical Donald Trump campaign rally, complete with MAGA regalia, patriotic flags, and Team Trump logos. However, there was a noticeable absence—Donald Trump himself. Instead, South Dakota's governor, Kristi Noem, spoke on his behalf, emphasizing the need for his leadership to prevent situations like those in the Middle East.

As the Iowa caucuses draw near on January 15, Trump has chosen to delegate much of his campaign trail presence to surrogates like Noem, Ben Carson, Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Eric Trump. These high-profile events, leading up to the caucuses, serve as both a public audition for potential roles in a future Trump cabinet and a chance to boost the surrogates' profiles in the MAGA universe.

The lineup also includes Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Mike Huckabee, Byron Donalds, Matt Gaetz, Kari Lake, Brenna Bird, and Roseanne Barr, among others. The surrogates leverage these events to gather personal information for follow-up communications with supporters and enhance their political careers.

Political observers note that these public displays of loyalty could be strategic moves by individuals vying for positions in a potential Trump administration. Kurt Bardella, a Democratic strategist, sees it as a live audition, where surrogates aim to curry favor with Trump and secure high-profile positions if he wins.

While Trump's family members, including Ivanka Trump and Donald Trump Jr., have been part of past campaigns, Eric Trump appears to be making an extra effort to impress his father. The significance of these surrogate events becomes more pronounced amid Trump's legal challenges and the need to select a running mate.

Noem's recent event overshadowed rival Ron DeSantis's gatherings, raising speculation about her potential vice-presidential candidacy. The loyalty displayed by these surrogates aligns with Trump's preference for subservience, creating an intriguing dynamic as the caucuses draw near. Despite Trump's absence on the campaign trail, his dominance is evident in polling, with a Fox News poll putting him at 52% among likely Republican caucus goers in Iowa.

As Trump plans eight in-person events before the caucuses, the absence of star power among his opponents' surrogates could potentially impact their appeal. Haley's backers include Will Hurd and Chris Sununu, while DeSantis relies on support from Kim Reynolds and Bob Vander Plaats. However, none seem to generate the same level of enthusiasm as Trump's allies, particularly Marjorie Taylor Greene, who proudly declares herself a "Maga extremist." The surrogates' influence and the surrogate operation's effectiveness remain key factors in the lead-up to the Iowa caucuses.

NFL Playoff Picture Unveiled: Schedule, Matchups, and Wild Card Scenarios for AFC and NFC Teams

The NFL playoff picture is taking shape, and fans are eagerly anticipating the postseason matchups. As teams vie for a chance at Super Bowl glory, let's break down the current playoff brackets, schedules, and the clinching scenarios for both the AFC and NFC.

AFC Playoff Bracket:

Baltimore Ravens (bye)

Winner between Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills; will host the No. 7 seed.

Kansas City Chiefs; will host the No. 6 seed.

AFC South champion (Jacksonville Jaguars or Houston Texans-Indianapolis Colts winner), will host the Cleveland Browns.

Cleveland Browns

Could be Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars, Indianapolis Colts, Houston Texans, or Pittsburgh Steelers; will play at Kansas City.

Could be Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars, Indianapolis Colts, Houston Texans, or Pittsburgh Steelers; will play at the No. 2 seed.

NFC Playoff Bracket:

San Francisco 49ers (bye)

Could be Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, or Detroit Lions; will host the No. 7 seed.

Could be Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, or Detroit Lions; will host the No. 6 seed.

NFC South champion (Tampa Bay Buccaneers or New Orleans Saints-Atlanta Falcons winner); will host the No. 5 seed.

Could be Dallas Cowboys or Philadelphia Eagles; will play at NFC South champion.

Could be Los Angeles Rams, Green Bay Packers, Seattle Seahawks, New Orleans Saints, or Tampa Bay Buccaneers; will play at the No. 3 seed.

Could be Los Angeles Rams, Green Bay Packers, Seattle Seahawks, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, or Minnesota Vikings; will play at the No. 2 seed.

Playoff Schedule:

Wild Card Round:

Saturday, January 13, 2024

4:30 p.m. (NBC, Peacock)

8:15 p.m. (Peacock)

Sunday, January 14, 2024

1 p.m. (Fox or CBS)

4:30 p.m. (Fox or CBS)

8:15 p.m. (NBC, Peacock)

Monday, January 15, 2024

8:15 p.m. (ABC, ESPN, ESPN2)

Divisional Round:

Saturday, January 20, 2024

AFC Divisional matchup

NFC Divisional matchup

Sunday, January 21, 2024

AFC Divisional matchup

NFC Divisional matchup

Conference Championships:

Sunday, January 28, 2024

AFC Championship Game - 3 p.m. (CBS)

NFC Championship Game - 6:30 p.m. (FOX)

Super Bowl LVIII:

Sunday, February 11, 2024 - 6:30 p.m. (CBS)

Week 18 Clinching Scenarios:

Here are the official NFL playoff scenarios distributed by the league office for both the AFC and NFC.

AFC Clinched:

Baltimore Ravens (13-3) – AFC North division title, No. 1 seed, lone first-round bye, and homefield advantage

Kansas City Chiefs (10-6) – AFC West division title

Cleveland Browns (11-5) – playoff berth

Miami Dolphins (11-5) – playoff berth

For detailed clinching scenarios for AFC teams, refer to the official NFL provided scenarios.

NFC Clinched:

San Francisco 49ers (12-4) – NFC West division title, No. 1 seed, lone first-round bye, and homefield advantage

Detroit Lions (11-5) – NFC North division title

Dallas Cowboys (11-5) – playoff berth

Los Angeles Rams (9-7) – playoff berth

Philadelphia Eagles (11-5) – playoff berth

For detailed clinching scenarios for NFC teams, refer to the official NFL provided scenarios.

As the regular season concludes, fans can look forward to a thrilling postseason with high-stakes matchups and the quest for Super Bowl glory.

Transforming Tesla: Elon Musk's Strategy to Secure National Importance

Elon Musk faces challenges as Tesla loses its global electric-vehicle sales crown to China's BYD. Despite increasing sales, profit strains and growing trade protectionism threaten Tesla's once-dominant position. To navigate these challenges, Musk can redefine Tesla's role by making it an integral part of U.S. infrastructure.

While Tesla lags behind BYD, it continues to expand sales and gain market share, especially in China. However, Tesla's foundation seems precarious, particularly as it relies heavily on its privileged position in China, where its factory plays a pivotal role in profitability. The factory in Shanghai has significantly contributed to Tesla's automotive gross margin, reaching 30% in 2022.

Despite amicable relations with China's government, there's a risk of strained ties or increased competition from a burgeoning domestic industry. Musk could counteract this by exploring growth opportunities elsewhere, but geopolitical tensions and eroding profitability pose significant challenges.

In a worst-case scenario where Europe reinforces defenses for local automakers and China becomes less accommodating, Tesla's options are limited. Merging with companies like BYD would face regulatory hurdles, and Musk's futuristic promises, such as revolutionary AI and robots, remain distant.

However, Tesla has another avenue: emphasizing its role beyond being just a car company. Musk can leverage Tesla's success in the energy storage business, where gross margins have surged. With a 25% share of the U.S. storage market, Tesla's giant battery packs are increasingly sought after by state power utilities to address renewables' intermittency.

Additionally, Tesla's charging infrastructure, adopted by U.S. automakers, positions the company as a leader in the EV charging space. The service business that houses charging has witnessed growing profitability, and government subsidies further support its expansion.

By focusing on energy solutions and charging infrastructure, Tesla can become a direct beneficiary of national policies, akin to domestic tech giant Intel. This strategic shift would secure Tesla's importance domestically, providing a shield against global uncertainties.

US Supreme Court to Review Trump's Appeal on Colorado Ruling Removing Him from State Ballot

The US Supreme Court is set to hear Donald Trump's appeal challenging the Colorado ruling that called for his removal from the state ballot under the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution, citing incitement to insurrection. In a brief order issued on Friday, the court scheduled the case for arguments on February 8, raising anticipation for a pivotal moment in American history.

As the Republican presidential primary progresses, a quick decision is expected, especially since Trump has also been disqualified from the ballot in Maine, pending a ruling appeal in state court. The Colorado primary is scheduled for March 5, with overseas ballots set to be mailed on January 20 and others between February 12 and 16. The suspension of Trump's candidacy remains in place as long as the Supreme Court appeal is ongoing.

The legal proceedings are gaining attention in the midst of a high-stakes presidential election year, highlighting the challenges faced by Trump following his impeachment and acquittal over the Capitol attack. The 14th Amendment, designed to bar supporters of the Confederate states, is rarely invoked, making this case particularly significant.

Legal scholars, including Laurence Tribe and retired judge J. Michael Luttig, argue that Trump should be disqualified under the 14th Amendment. Luttig called the Colorado ruling a "monumental decision of constitutional law" and believes the Supreme Court ruling will be "arguably the single most important constitutional decision in all of our history."

While some question whether Section 3 of the 14th Amendment applies to the presidency or someone not convicted of insurrection, the case raises debates on its potential impact on democracy. Trump, facing multiple legal challenges, leads Republican polling but could face uncharted territory if the Supreme Court rules against him in the Colorado case.

Trump's spokesperson, Steven Cheung, welcomed a "fair hearing" at the Supreme Court, describing the Colorado decision as a "bad-faith, election-interfering, voter-suppressing" effort by left-wing activists. Legal experts predict a complex legal battle, and with a conservative-leaning Supreme Court dominated by justices appointed during Trump's presidency, the outcome remains uncertain.

Controversies surrounding justices, including Brett Kavanaugh and Clarence Thomas, add additional layers to the proceedings, raising concerns about conflicts of interest and the perceived impartiality of the judicial process. As the case unfolds, observers brace for a potentially wild legal ride with implications for the integrity of the electoral system and the Supreme Court's role in the democratic process.

New York Solar Firm Accused of Union-Busting Following Prolonged Worker Furlough

A New York-based solar panel company is facing allegations of union-busting practices after placing 40% of its workforce on furlough for over a year, just days after a successful union election.

EmPower Solar, located in Bethpage, witnessed installers and technicians reaching out to the United Auto Workers (UAW) due to concerns about working conditions and on-the-job challenges. Despite opposition from the company and consultants specializing in union avoidance, the workers at EmPower voted to join UAW Local 259 on December 22. However, a mere week after the election victory on December 30, EmPower furloughed 21 workers until 2025, prompting UAW Local 259 to label it as a "union-busting" tactic.

EmPower countered these claims, asserting that the decision had nothing to do with the UAW or the union vote but was solely a response to a business slowdown. The company faced criticism from furloughed workers and union representatives, who believed the move was a direct attempt to deter employees from unionizing.

Daniel Lozano, one of the furloughed employees and a solar installer at EmPower since April 2023, expressed dissatisfaction with the compensation for the job's inherent dangers and pressures. He emphasized that the union drive stemmed from the desire for workers' concerns to be heard by management, seeking fair treatment, a livable wage, and job security.

Despite EmPower's claims that the furlough was unrelated to the unionization efforts, the company had previously filed an unfair labor practice charge against the union just before the election, alleging coercion. The union responded with its own charges against EmPower related to the layoffs, coercion, and intimidation.

In response to criticisms, EmPower cited macroeconomic factors, such as high interest rates, leading to a decrease in demand for solar products. The company mentioned that it has had to reduce its workforce multiple times due to economic conditions affecting various businesses.

The conflict has intensified as EmPower continues to post job openings on its website, including positions for solar installers. UAW Local 259 remains steadfast, vowing not to be bullied and highlighting the irony of a solar panel company laying off workers a week after a union election. The situation underscores the challenges of achieving a just transition to green energy, especially with only 4% of US solar workers currently belonging to unions.