Morning Announcements

Today's headlines: Democratic senator Raphael Warnock was elected as Senator yesterday night. Rep Andy Biggs announced that he will be challenging Kevin McCarthy for the speakership. Congress has awarded the congressional gold medal to the law enforcement officers who defended the capitol on January 6th. Jack Smith subpoenaed officials in multiple counties where Trump tried to reverse the election results in 2020. A New York jury reached a verdict in the trial against the Trump Organization, finding them guilty on all 17 counts yesterday. Finally for today, the state of Maryland is banning the use of TikTok and any China and Russia-based platforms within the state’s executive branch of government. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Axios: Rep. Andy Biggs challenges McCarthy for speaker Washington Post: Congress awards gold medals to police who defended Capitol on Jan. 6 Washington Post: Justice Dept. subpoenas Ariz., Mich., Wis. officials in Trump Jan. 6 probe NBC: Jury finds Trump Organization guilty of tax fraud scheme AP News: Maryland bans TikTok in state agencies, latest state to act NY Times: Putin Signs Law Banning Expressions of L.G.B.T.Q. Identity in Public Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Today is the final day of voting in the Georgia senate runoff race between current democratic senator Raphael Warnock and abortion provider Herschel Walker. A Christian graphic artist who objects to designing wedding websites for gay couples is arguing before the Supreme Court that a ruling against her would force artists to do work that’s against their beliefs. Approximately forty-thousand residents in Moore County, North Carolina have been without power since Sunday. A new report from the National Association of Real Estate Brokers has new data on persistent discrimination against Black Americans in the home buying industry. Dominion Voting Systems is suing Fox for 1.6 billion dollars. Finally for today, Vladimir Putin has signed a law banning any expressions of LGBTQ identity in public. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: When to expect results from Georgia’s Senate runoff AP News: Justices spar in latest clash of religion and gay rights AP News: North Carolina blackouts caused by shootings could last days NY Times: Discrimination Seeps Into Every Aspect of Home Buying for Black Americans Washington Post: Rupert Murdoch to be deposed in $1.6 billion defamation case against Fox NY Times: Putin Signs Law Banning Expressions of L.G.B.T.Q. Identity in Public Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Trump posted on Truth Social this weekend stating that the Constitution should be terminated due to "massive" election fraud. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced that the DOJ is seeking access to all of the interviews and evidence that has been collected by the January 6th committee. The DOJ announced that they have both reached an agreement and filed a new complaint with the city of Jackson, Mississippi over mismanagement of its water system. A new report by the House Select Committee on the Coronavirus Crisis has revealed that tech firms that were contracted by the government were complicit in facilitating aid fraud. Members of the Democratic National Committee voted on Friday to change the order of its primary calendar. Finally for today, Alex Jones has filed for Chapter 11 personal bankruptcy. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Axios: Trump: Constitution should be terminated due to "massive" election fraud CNN: DOJ wants ‘all’ transcripts and evidence in House January 6 probe, Garland says ABC: DOJ reaches agreement, files new complaint against Jackson, Mississippi, over water crisis Washington Post: ‘The more you submit, the more we get paid’: How fintech fueled covid aid fraud Politico: DNC moves forward with dramatic change to presidential primary calendar NY Times: Alex Jones Files for Bankruptcy Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: The Senate voted legislating a labor agreement that would give railway workers 7 days of paid sick leave, and passed legislation that will prevent a strike but only give workers one day of paid sick leave. The House Committee has obtained access to Trump’s Tax Returns. An appeals court in Georgia has struck down the special master who is reviewing the Trump documents that the FBI seized in August. Another court of appeals in Texas has rejected the Department of Education’s request to reinstate its student debt plan. French president Emmanuel Macron and President Biden gave a joint press conference and shared a state dinner at the White House yesterday. Finally for this week, Neuralink announced that they are working towards implanting a computer chip in a human brain within six months. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NY Times: With Senate Vote, Congress Moves to Avert Rail Strike NY Times: House Committee Obtains Access to Trump’s Tax Returns, Ending Long Fight Washington Post: Trump Mar-a-Lago special master struck down by appeals court NPR: Legal losses keep coming for Biden's student loan relief plan AP News: Biden, Macron vow unity against Russia, discuss trade row Bloomberg: Musk’s Neuralink Hopes to Implant Computer in Human Brain in Six Months Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Democrats in the House of Representatives held their leadership elections yesterday, with representative Hakeem Jeffries of New York coming out as the first Black person to lead a political party’s caucus in either chamber. The House of Representatives held a vote on legislation to avert a nationwide railroad strike yesterday. Police are now cracking down on protestors over the widespread protests in China over the zero-covid policy. Five cars that were rented by Biden’s secret service burst into flames in the Nantucket Airport parking lot around 5am on Monday morning. The crypto firm BlockFi filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy following the collapse of FTX on Monday. Finally for today, Twitter announced that they will no longer enforce their policy against Covid misinformation. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NBC: House Democrats elect Rep. Hakeem Jeffries as leader, the first Black person to lead a congressional caucus Axios: House passes legislation to avert economically devastating rail strike BBC: China plans 'crackdown' after Covid protests Daily Beast: 5 Cars Rented by Biden’s Secret Service Burst Into Flames CNBC: Crypto firm BlockFi files for bankruptcy as FTX fallout spreads Prospect: Congressmembers Tried to Stop the SEC’s Inquiry Into FTX AP News: Twitter ends enforcement of COVID misinformation policy Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Herschel Walker ‘s wife collected tens of thousands of dollars in rental income for the Georgia residence that he had used as his official address. The Senate has voted 61 to 36 to pass the Respect for Marriage Act. Biden has called on Congress to act to divert a freight rail strike before early next month. A federal jury has found two leaders of the extreme-right-wing militia “the Oath Keepers” guilty; Trump’s former deputy chief of staff/former secret service agent Tony Ornato met with the January 6th committee; the South Carolina Supreme Court has unanimously ordered Mark Meadows to comply with the subpoena for his testimony in Georgia. Finally for today, France’s highest court has ruled that a man who was fired by his company in Paris for allegedly failing to be “fun” enough at work was wrongfully dismissed. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Daily Beast: Herschel Walker Only Recently Stopped Renting Out Georgia Home He Claims as His Residence Washington Post: Senate passes bill to protect same-sex, interracial marriages Vice: 28 Freight Rail Workers Tell Us What They Want You to Know About Their Lives Washington Post: Congress Looks to Intervene in Rail Dispute as Strike Deadline Looms CNN: Former White House deputy chief of staff meeting with January 6 committee Tuesday Axios: Mark Meadows must testify in Georgia election probe, S.C. Supreme Court rules Washington Post: French man wins right to not be ‘fun’ at work Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Arizona’s Maricopa County has voted to certify the 2022 election over GOP objections. Former Trump advisor and purveyor of alternative facts, Kellyanne Conway sat for a deposition with the House January 6th committee for almost five hours yesterday without invoking the 5th amendment. Security has tightened in China after multiple widespread Covid protests. More than 2 million people in Houston Texas are currently under a boil water notice as of yesterday after a power outage at a purification plant. Five police officers in Connecticut were each charged with second-degree reckless endangerment and cruelty misdemeanors for their treatment of a Black man named Randy Cox in June of 2022. Finally for today, New news suggests Twitter is considering pulling twitter out of the App Store as a result of the false and dangerous content that Elon is now allowing, and even encouraging, on the platform. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: The Hill: Arizona’s Maricopa County votes to certify 2022 election over GOP objections AP News: GOP-controlled Arizona county refuses to certify election NBC: Kellyanne Conway meets with Jan. 6 committee for nearly 5 hours BBC: Security tightened in China after widespread Covid protests NY Times: Protest in Xinjiang Against Lockdown After Fire Kills 10 AP News: Water boil order issued for more than 2 million in Houston Washington Post: Elon Musk says Apple threatened to remove Twitter from App Store Bloomberg: FTX US Donated $1 Million to a Super-PAC Aligned With Mitch McConnell in October Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Reports emerged over the weekend that Donald Trump had dinner at Mar-a-Lago with, Kanye West, a famous 24 year old neo-Nazi named Nick Fuentes, and a former Trump strategist named Karen Giorno. Kanye West has announced his 2024 Presidential Bid, Calling for Christian Theocracy. Early voting began this weekend in the Georgia senate runoff race between Raphael Warnock and Herschel Walker. Half of twitter’s top 100 advertisers are no longer advertising on the platform. Mike Pence is considering answering to the Justice Department in their investigation into January 6th. Finally for today, France has taken the first steps to enshrine the right to abortion into their constitution. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Axios: Trump talks with white nationalist Nick Fuentes at Mar-a-Lago dinner Rolling Stone: Kanye West Announces 2024 Presidential Bid, Seems to Call for Christian Theocracy CNN: Georgia Senate candidate Herschel Walker getting tax break in 2022 on Texas home intended for primary residence NPR: Twitter has lost 50 of its top 100 advertisers since Elon Musk took over, report says NY Times: Justice Dept. Seeking to Question Pence in Jan. 6 Investigation Washington Post: France takes 1st step to add abortion right to constitution Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: The Biden administration announced yesterday that they’re extending the pause on federal student loan payments until June 30th, 2023. The Supreme Court has denied Donald Trump’s request to block the House Ways and Means Committee from accessing his tax returns. Senator Lindsey Graham testified yesterday for about two hours before a grand jury in the Georgia probe regarding election interference in 2020 - reportedly answering all the questions which he had previously spent months fighting all the way to the Supreme Court to avoid. Finally for this week, Some of the country’s top law schools including Yale, Harvard, Berkeley, Columbia, Georgetown and Stanford, have all decided to drop out of the US News and World Report rankings. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NY Times: White House Extends Pause on Student Loan Payments Washington Post: Supreme Court clears way for Trump tax returns to go to Congress Washington Post: Lindsey Graham testifies before Georgia grand jury in election probe Inside Higher Ed: Law Schools Reject ‘U.S. News’ Rankings Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: The Colorado Springs shooter will face 5 murder charges, and 5 additional hate crime counts of causing injury with bias motivation for each person he murdered. A court in Georgia ruled that voters will be able to vote in the senate runoff election between Raphael Warnock and Herschel Walker starting the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The new Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is reportedly returning to his investigation into Donald Trump’s hush-money payments to Stormy Daniels. Finally for today, an “anti-woke” Texas startup called GloriFi is shutting down. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Guardian: Colorado Springs shooting: suspect faces murder and hate crime charges NY Times: Army Veteran Went Into ‘Combat Mode’ to Disarm the Club Q Gunman Democracy Docket: Georgia Runoff Nov. 26 Early Voting Challenge NY Times: Manhattan Prosecutors Move to Jump-Start Criminal Inquiry Into Trump WSJ: Anti-Woke Bank GloriFi to Shut Down Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: A shooter opened fire at a bar in Colorado Springs that was regarded as a “haven for the LGBTQ community” known as Club Q yesterday. Elon Musk locked employees out of Twitter’s headquarters this weekend after the employee who controlled security was no longer with the company; Musk also has let Trump back on Twitter. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced on Friday that he is appointing a special counsel to take over two investigations into Donald Trump. Reverend Rob Schenck wrote in a letter that he was informed of the outcome of the 2014 Hobby Lobby decision, and that he used that information to prepare a public relations push. Finally for today, the 2022 World Cup is taking place in Qatar after a shady bidding war was organized to hold it there, as well as brutal, forced working conditions that led to the building of the stadium. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: Police probe LGBTQ club shooting suspect’s ties to a 2021 bomb threat AP News: Police: Gunman kills 5 at gay club, is subdued by patrons BBC: Twitter locks staff out of offices until next week NPR: Elon Musk allows Donald Trump back on Twitter NY Times: Garland Names Special Counsel for Trump Inquiries NY Times: Former Anti-Abortion Leader Alleges Another Supreme Court Breach NPR: The 2022 World Cup in Qatar begins, warts and all Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Nancy Pelosi has announced that she will be stepping down from her leadership position in January after two decades of leadership. The republicans who are expected to chair the House Oversight Committee next session have already expressed their plan to lay out evidence that the Biden family is defrauding the United States. Democrat Mary Pelota in Alaska will be heading to the House of Representatives after defeating republicans Sarah Palin and Nick Begich; Karen Bass won her race for mayor of Los Angeles. John Kelly has revealed that when Trump was in office he repeatedly stated that he wanted the IRS to investigate a number of his political enemies. Finally for today, Ticketmaster announced that they’re NOT going to be holding a general ticket sale for Taylor Swift’s tour as they don’t have enough tickets. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NY Times: Live Updates: Nancy Pelosi Says a ‘New Generation’ Will Lead House Democrats NPR: Republicans have won the House. Now, they're promising to investigate the Bidens NY Times: Live Updates: Nancy Pelosi Says a ‘New Generation’ Will Lead House Democrats CNBC: Taylor Swift public ticket sale canceled over extreme demand, Ticketmaster says Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Republicans have officially won control of the House of Representatives, with the current seat count at 218 to 210 seats for Democrats; The Respect for Marriage Act received enough votes for the Senate to agree to vote on it; Mitch McConnell has officially been re-elected minority leader. Oregon voters approved a measure to strengthen gun ownership requirements in the state. The missile that killed two Polish citizens was most likely an accident. Revolutionary protests against the Islamic Republic in Iran continue to escalate, with four protesters being sentenced to death. Finally for today, NASA launched its Artemis I rocket yesterday, which is expected to pave the way for the US to send astronauts to the moon for the first time since the 1970s. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: Republicans narrowly win House, ending full Democratic control of Congress AP News: Same-sex marriage legislation clears key Senate hurdle NY Times: Mitch McConnell Beats Rick Scott, Holding Onto Republican Leadership Role AP News: Poland, NATO say missile strike wasn’t a Russian attack BBC: Iran hands out more death sentences to anti-government protesters Axios: NASA launches its new Moon rocket for 1st time Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Donald Trump announced his 2024 presidential run from Mar-a-Lago last night. Control of the House of Representatives is still not officially decided, with Republicans one seat short of the 218 majority while Democrats hold 207 seats. Rick Scott will challenge Mitch McConnell for the Senate Republican leader. Two Polish citizens were killed yesterday near Poland’s border with Ukraine, after possibly being hit by heavy Russian strikes. Finally for today, the Mormon Church announced yesterday that it will support proposed federal legislation that would safeguard same-sex marriage and interracial marriage. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Axios: Trump, twice-impeached and under criminal investigation, launches 2024 campaign CNN: Kevin McCarthy beats far-right challenger 188-31 to lead House GOP CNN: Rick Scott will challenge Mitch McConnell for Senate Republican leader Washington Post: How Trump, infighting and flawed candidates limited Republican gains Politico: Democrats: Medicare fraud is 'fungus' Scott will never get rid of Reuters: Biden says missile that killed two in Poland may not have come from Russia Axios: Mormon church says it supports same-sex marriage law Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Control of the House of Representatives is still not clear, with Republicans holding 212 seats to the Democrats’ 204.The governor’s race in Arizona was called last night for democrat Katie Hobbs. Voters in Nevada last week approved a measure that would establish ranked-choice voting in the state, while Georgia election officials have banned early voting on the Saturday before election. US intelligence officials have reportedly compiled a classified report detailing efforts by the United Arab Emirates to manipulate the American political system. A student at the University of Virginia opened fire on his classmates, killing 3 yesterday. A second federal court has issued another order blocking the Biden administration’s student debt relief program. Finally for today, 48 thousand academic staff members at the University of California’s school system went on strike yesterday. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NBC: Conservatives warn McCarthy: You don't have the votes for speaker NBC: Democrat Katie Hobbs defeats MAGA favorite Kari Lake in high-stakes race for governor in Arizona NPR: Nevada voters back big changes to their election system AJC: Saturday voting barred in US Senate runoff after Ga. holidays Washington Post: U.S. intelligence report says key gulf ally meddled in American politics NBC: Trump D.C. hotel receipts reveal $10,500-a-night rooms for foreign officials seeking to influence U.S. policy NY Times: Suspect in University of Virginia Shooting Is in Custody, Police Say Washington Post: Biden aides consider extending student loan freeze after court defeats Washington Post: In largest strike of 2022, California academic workers walk off job Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Democrats now control 50 senate seats to the Republican’s 49. Nevada has elected Republican Joe Lombardo as governor, but rejected one of the worst republican election deniers in the country, Jim Marchant, as their Secretary of State. Nevadans also voted to add a state constitutional amendment to increase the minimum wage to $12 dollars an hour by 2024. In Toledo, Ohio, the city council approved $800,000 dollars to purchase the medical debt of its residents, creating roughly $200 million in debt relief. Trump claims he sent the FBI to Florida to stop voter fraud in 2018, while officials say no such thing happened. Elon Musk spent the weekend tweeting his way into potential bankruptcy, while the company is operating with half of a staff and serious internal turmoil. Finally for today, FTX, One of the world’s biggest cryptocurrency exchanges run by Sam Bankman-Fried, has spent multiple millions of dollars trying to lobby the government to implement easy regulations on the growing crypto industry. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NY Times: Nevada Question 2 Election Results: Minimum Wage Regulation Buzzfeed: “We Have A Broken Healthcare System”: An Ohio County Is Trying To Erase Up To $240 Million In Medical Debt NBC: Trump claims he sent the FBI to Florida to stop voter fraud in 2018. Officials say no such thing happened. Politico: Trump sues to block subpoena from House Jan. 6 committee Reuters: Major ad firm Omnicom recommends clients pause Twitter ad spend - memo Business Insider: Twitter begins a new wave of firings by letting go of contractors with no notice, reports say TechCrunch: Musk’s lawyer tells Twitter staff they won’t be liable if company violates FTC consent decree RTE: Elon Musk says Twitter staff can work from home WIRED: Twitter Is on a Collision Course With Europe NY Times: What Happened to FTX? Here’s What to Know. WSJ: SEC, DOJ Investigating Crypto Platform FTX CNBC: Sam Bankman-Fried reportedly denies fleeing to Argentina, says he’s still in the Bahamas Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Control of Congress is still undecided but, the count in the Senate now stands at 49-49, after the Arizona senate race was called for democrat Mark Kelly late last night. Montana voters rejected a measure that would have required health care providers to take "reasonable actions" to save an infant who is born alive or face felony criminal charges and fines up to 50 thousand dollars. Several top privacy executives resigned from Twitter yesterday, including the chiefs of information security, privacy, and compliance; Elon Musk also sent an email to every employee of twitter at 2:30am, announcing the end of remote work and letting them know that they were required to return to the office for a minimum of 40 hours per week. Finally for this week, a Connecticut judge has ordered Alex Jones and his company to pay an additional $473 million dollars in punitive damages to Sandy Hook families. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NPR: Montana voters reject so-called 'Born Alive' ballot measure NBC: U.S. inflation eased to 7.7% in October, raising hopes that high prices have begun to slow down Washington Post: Twitter’s content moderation head quits as departures alarm the FTC Insider: Read the 2:30 a.m. email Elon Musk sent to staff, his first, announcing the end of remote working at Twitter AP News: Slavery, involuntary servitude rejected by 4 states’ voters CBS: Connecticut judge orders Alex Jones to pay another $473 million to Sandy Hook families Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: As of this recording at midnight eastern time this morning, control of both the House and Senate still remain up in the air - 49 seats for the Republicans and 48 for the Democrats. In New York, voters approved a $4.2 billion dollar bond to pay for major projects as a response to climate change and pollution. South Dakota voted to amend the state constitution to expand Medicaid to all adults who earn up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level. Missouri voters approved a ballot measure legalizing recreational marijuana for adults over 21. Universal free lunch passed with 55 percent of the vote in Colorado. Alabama, Tennessee, Vermont and Oregon have removed slavery loopholes from their constitution, while Louisiana has not. Finally for today, President Biden gave a speech about the midterm results, and the Kremlin is reportedly pulling its troops out of the key city of Kherson. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Philadelphia Inquirer: Pennsylvania Democrats believe they have flipped the state House Gotham Gazette: New York Voters Approve $4.2 Billion Environmental Bond Act NBC: 'So much relief': South Dakota voters pass Medicaid expansion NPR: Universal free lunch ballot measure passes easily in Colorado AP News: Slavery, involuntary servitude rejected by 4 states’ voters PBS: WATCH: Biden hails Democrats’ ‘strong’ election night, acknowledges concerns NYT: Russia Orders Withdrawal From Kherson City, in Potential Blow to War Effort Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Congress is still undecided as of now, with 221 seats for Republicans, and 214 for Democrats with control leaning likely towards republicans, but not all races have been called. Right now the Senate is tied 48-48, with races in Arizona and Nevada still not fully counted. In Arizona, we likely won’t know the results of the governor and Senate races until tomorrow at the earliest. So far, only 80 of the 300 election deniers nationwide were elected into office. Finally, Tina Kotek has been elected governor of Oregon, making her the second out lesbian elected to lead any state, and Louisville judge Mary Shaw has lost her race in Missouri. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NY Times: The Violent Fantasies of Blake Masters WFPL: Judge who signed Breonna Taylor search warrant loses reelection Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Our first look at Election results is here! In the House of Representatives, the Democrats currently hold 217 seats, while the Republicans have 218, with numerous races not called yet. Overall, Democrats had way more wins than most polling had indicated. The Republican's best performance happened in Florida, where Ron DeSantis, Marco Rubio and Matt Gaetz were all reelected. More results arrive tomorrow! Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Election Day is here - 16.7 billion dollars has been spent on it, with almost 8 of those billions alone being spent on niche state and local races. Republican officials and candidates in at least 3 battleground states have been pushing to disqualify thousands of mail ballots In Pennsylvania; In Michigan, the republican nominee for Secretary of State sued an election official in Detroit; in Wisconsin, Republicans won a court ruling that will prevent some mail ballots from being counted. And finally for today, Russian businessman Yevgeny Prigozhin made the first open admission that he had interfered in the US elections in the past. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Bloomberg: Spending on US Midterm Elections to Exceed $16.7 Billion, Setting New Record Detroit News: U.S. Supreme Court dismisses Michigan redistricting challenge to Congress map Washington Post: Republicans sue to disqualify thousands of mail ballots in swing states Reuters: Russia's Prigozhin admits interfering in U.S. elections Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Voting for the 2022 midterm elections officially ends tomorrow, and almost 40 million votes have already been cast. Elon Musk laid off half of Twitter’s employees over email on Friday, followed by those employees filing a lawsuit against him. Twitter is said to delay changes to the new check mark badges until after Midterms. Researchers have identified a series of Russian disinformation operations with the goals of stoking anger among conservative voters, undermining trust in the election system, and denouncing the Biden administration’s support for Ukraine. Republican candidate Joel Koskan was charged on Thursday for multiple sexual acts against his adopted daughter. Donald Trump missed the Friday deadline to turn over documents to the House January 6th committee. Finally for today, CDC officials say that the US is now officially in a flu epidemic. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: Number of early votes cast surpasses early-vote total in 2018 midterm election Bloomberg: Spending on US Midterm Elections to Exceed $16.7 Billion, Setting New Record Washington Post: Twitter layoffs gutted election information teams days before midterms Reuters: Twitter asks some laid off workers to come back, Bloomberg reports Bloomberg: Musk’s Plan to Downsize Twitter to Run Into European Employment Law The Verge: Elon Musk’s Twitter layoffs leave whole teams gutted USA Today: Considering joining the Twitter migration? Check out these platform alternatives. NY Times: Twitter Is Said to Delay Changes to Check Mark Badges Until After Midterms Yahoo News: South Dakota Senate Candidate Charged with Multiple Sexual Acts Against Adopted Child NY Times: Jan. 6 Committee Gives Trump More Time to Comply With Subpoena CNN: Exclusive: DOJ mulling potential special counsel if Trump runs in 2024 Fortune Well: The U.S. is officially in a flu epidemic, federal health officials say. They’re preparing to deploy troops and ventilators if necessary Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Obama gave his most frank warning yet about the state of democracy in the midterms to a rally in Phoenix. Paul Pelosi has been released from the hospital and will remain under doctor’s care at home. North Korea launched an intercontinental ballistic missile as well as two other short range missiles yesterday. Leaked Kremlin documents claim that Vladimir Putin is battling both Parkinson's disease and pancreatic cancer that has spread to other parts of his body. Finally for the week, Benjamin Netanyahu’s victory to become Israel’s prime minister is official. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: Obama says democracy ‘may not survive’ in Arizona if Republicans win NBC: Paul Pelosi released from hospital a week after brutal attack Axios: Suspect in Paul Pelosi attack was in U.S. illegally, DHS says Axios: North Korea launches intercontinental ballistic missile in latest escalation Sky News: Leaked Kremlin documents claim Russian President Vladimir Putin is secretly battling Parkinson's disease and pancreatic cancer Axios: Israel's Lapid congratulates Netanyahu on election win Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: president Biden gave a speech last night on the theme of democracy. New reporting has emerged regarding Dr. Mehmet Oz’s role in research that killed hundreds of dogs. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has ruled that counties must segregate and not count mail ballots with missing or incorrect dates on their return envelopes. The federal reserve has increased the interest rate by .75 percent of a point again. Politico has published 8 emails from John Eastman, who was Trump’s legal advisor around the 2020 election. Finally for today, it’s looking like Netanyahu is going to be the Israeli prime minister again. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: CBS: Biden says "democracy is on the ballot" in midterms speech Independent: Dr Oz asks surgeon to downplay candidate’s role in research that allegedly killed puppies WSJ: Today's Coverage Politico: Trump lawyers saw Justice Thomas as 'only chance' to stop 2020 election certification AP News: Israel’s Netanyahu appears to hold lead in election Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Justice John Roberts has ruled to delay the handover of Trump’s tax returns to the House Oversight committee while the court considers his request to hear his appeal. The Supreme Court has denied Lindsey Graham’s request to avoid testifying to the grand jury in Georgia over his role in election interference. Democratic members of the Federal Election Commission recently issued a statement that a US corporation illegally funneled Russian funds to Republican political candidates in the 2018 midterm elections. President Bolsonaro of Brazil has yet to formally concede the election results. Israel held its fifth election in less than four years yesterday, and exit polls seemed to indicate that former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu was on course for victory. Finally for today, Elon Musk announced that anyone will be able to buy a blue check for $8 a month. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: Chief Justice Roberts temporarily delays release of Trump tax records Washington Post: Supreme Court clears way for Sen. Graham to testify in Ga. election probe Mother Jones: Russians Used a US Firm to Funnel Funds to GOP in 2018. Dems Say the FEC Let Them Get Away With It. AP News: Brazil’s Bolsonaro declines to concede, but OKs transition BBC: Israel elections: Netanyahu in lead, exit polls say Washington Post: Twitter to charge $8 a month for verification. What you need to know. Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: The assailant who attacked Paul Pelosi had a greater plan to kidnap Nancy and break her kneecaps if she didn’t tell him the “truth.” Elon Musk has dissolved the whole board of directors of Twitter, making him the sole director and giving him full control over the company. Trump has asked the Supreme Court to stop the IRS from releasing his tax returns to the House of Representatives Oversight Committee. Finally for today, Brazil has voted out their president Jair Bolsonaro. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: CBS: Suspect in Paul Pelosi attack had list of targets, law enforcement sources say NBC: Suspect in Paul Pelosi attack planned to break House speaker's kneecaps, DOJ says in filing charges BBC: Elon Musk dissolves Twitter's board of directors CNBC: Trump asks Supreme Court to block Congress getting his tax returns Axios: Bolsonaro's defeat is a climate turning point Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Nancy Pelosi’s husband Paul Pelosi was attacked inside their San Francisco home at 2:30am on Friday morning; Elon Musk tweeted an unfounded conspiracy theory about the attack. Saudi billionaires are the ‘second largest investors’ in Twitter after Musk’s takeover. According to data from the University of Florida's U.S. Elections Project, 20 million people have already voted in this year's election. A recent study found that homicide is the leading cause of death among pregnant women. Finally for today, SCOTUS is hearing challenges to affirmative action policies at Harvard and the University of North Carolina this week. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: CNN: CNN Exclusive: Suspect in Paul Pelosi attack had bag with zip ties, source says Aljazeera: Saudis ‘second largest investors’ in Twitter after Musk takeover Washington Post: Racist tweets quickly surface after Musk closes Twitter deal CNBC: GM temporarily suspends advertising on Twitter following Elon Musk takeover Newsweek: Elon Musk Will Have to Pay More Than $200m to Three Fired Twitter Execs ABC: Early vote count surpasses ordinary midterm turnout The Hill: US faces election worker shortage ahead of midterms due to rise in threats NPR: Group can monitor Arizona ballot drop boxes, a U.S. judge has ruled GMA: Homicide is leading cause of death for pregnant women in US, study finds NY Times: In Clash Over Affirmative Action, Both Sides Invoke Brown v. Board of Education Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: GDP grew 2.6 percent last quarter, while unemployment is at 3.5 percent. Arizona’s current Secretary of State and the democratic nominee for Governor Katie Hobbs’ campaign office in Phoenix was broken into and a suspect was arrested, though the details of their identity and what was stolen have not yet been reported. New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez is reportedly under federal criminal investigation by the Southern District of New York. Elon Musk completed his deal to buy twitter for 44 billion dollars late last night. Finally for this week, new reporting from CNN is spotlighting Kanye West’s long history of admiration for Hitler and fascinating with the Nazis. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Axios: Housing is hammered in the Fed's war on inflation NBC: Arrest made after break-in at Democrat Katie Hobbs’ campaign headquarters in Arizona NY Times: Senator Robert Menendez Faces a New Federal Investigation BBC: Elon Musk claims he's buying Twitter to 'help humanity' CNN: Exclusive: Kanye West has a disturbing history of admiring Hitler, sources tell CNN Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Three men were convicted yesterday of state charges in the plot to kidnap Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer. A second woman is alleging that Herschel Walker pressured her get an abortion, and that he personally drove her to the clinic. A judge has ruled that Mark Meadows has to testify before a special grand jury in the Georgia election probe. Finally for today, a new report from the World Meteorological Organization has found that methane emissions are rising faster than ever. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: AP News: 3 men convicted of supporting plot to kidnap Gov. Whitmer CNBC: New woman says Herschel Walker got her pregnant and drove her to abortion clinic NPR: A judge orders Mark Meadows to testify in a Georgia election probe Washington Post: Climate-warming methane emissions rising faster than ever, study says Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: With officially less than 2 weeks until the midterm elections, The U.S. has seen debate nights and record breaking voting turnouts across multiple states. Pediatric hospitals and physicians are reportedly overwhelmed by cases of not only covid and the flu, but RSV - which they’ve now nicknamed a “tripledemic.” President Biden received his updated covid booster and made a statement that not enough people are getting them. Mark Meadows is asking a judge to reject his subpoena in the Georgia election probe. UK’s new prime minister Rishi Sunak was sworn in after meeting with King Charles yesterday. And finally for today, Adidas has dropped Kanye West, and they claim they will absorb 250 million dollars in profit loss. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: CBS: Early voting turnout breaking records two weeks before Election Day NBC: Top Arizona election official refers more cases of potential voter intimidation to law enforcement NY Times: A ‘Tripledemic’? Flu and Other Infections Return as Covid Cases Rise NY Times: Biden Receives Updated Booster Shot and Urges Americans to Follow Suit Axios: Mark Meadows asks judge to reject subpoena in Georgia election probe Insider: Longtime Trump aide Hope Hicks, who told the embattled former president he lost the 2020 election, is testifying to the Jan. 6 select committee today: report Washington Post: Rishi Sunak vows to earn Britain’s trust in first speech as prime minister Bloomberg: Adidas Intends to Sell Yeezy Designs Without the Name CNBC: Adidas terminates Ye partnership, Gap removes Yeezy items over rapper's antisemitic remarks Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: The 8th circuit court of Appeals blocked the student loan relief program temporarily. The Justice Clarence Thomas of the Supreme Court has temporarily blocked Lindsey Graham from testifying in the Georgia election interference probe. A woman in Missouri who previously described herself as anti-abortion was denied an abortion last week after her water broke at 17 weeks of pregnancy. Attorney General Merrick Garland held a press conference yesterday regarding multiple charges in three cases. Brittney Griner’s appeal hearing is set for today. Finally for today, Rishi Sunak has been elected by the Conservative party as the new UK Prime Minister. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: Appeals court temporarily halts Biden’s student debt relief program NBC: Justice Clarence Thomas temporarily blocks Lindsey Graham's testimony in Georgia election interference probe Jezebel: Former 'Pro-Life' Missouri Woman Denied Emergency Abortion Cuts Ad for Democrat Washington Post: DOJ accuses 10 Chinese spies and government officials of ‘malign schemes’ NPR: Brittney Griner will appeal her prison sentence in Russia on Tuesday AP News: Rishi Sunak, UK’s next PM, faces major economic problems Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Donald Trump has been officially subpoenaed by the House January 6th committee. Some of the classified documents reportedly found at Mar-a-Lago included highly sensitive information regarding Iran’s nuclear program, and the United State’s intelligence work against China. A federal judge has sentenced Steve Bannon to four months in prison for refusing to comply with a subpoena from the House January 6th committee. Lindsey Graham must testify in the Georgia investigation into whether he tried to help Trump overturn the 2020 election there. Internal documents and from Twitter show that Elon Musk told investors that he plans to get rid of almost 75% of Twitter’s workforce. Finally for today, North Korea and South Korea exchanged fire along their disputed western sea boundary yesterday. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: AP News: Cheney: 1/6 panel won’t let Trump turn testimony into circus Washington Post: Mar-a-Lago classified papers held U.S. secrets about Iran and China Politico: Bannon gets 4 months jail term for defying Jan. 6 committee subpoena Washington Post: Lindsey Graham must testify in 2020 election investigation, court rules Washington Post: Documents detail plans to gut Twitter’s workforce Guardian: White House denies talk of national security review of Elon Musk ventures ABC: 2 Koreas exchange warning shots along disputed sea boundary Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Supreme Court Justice Serena Joy rejected a request that the court hear a lawsuit brought by a Wisconsin taxpayers association, challenging President Biden’s student loan forgiveness. Newly released police body camera footage has been published, showing the results of Governor Ron DeSantis’s crackdown on voter fraud in action. Parts of Florida hit hardest by Hurricane Ian are seeing nearly double the normal number of infections from a flesh-eating bacteria that thrives in floodwaters. The UK is getting its third prime minister in 3 months after Liz Truss resigned. Rolling blackouts have begun in Ukraine, as Putin declared martial law in the four illegally annexed regions. Finally for this week, a new investigation shows an alarming number of retired US military officials who go on to advise countries with negative human rights records. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NBC: Justice Barrett rejects group’s effort to block Biden’s student debt relief program from taking effect NY Times: Videos Show Confusion as Florida Police Arrest People on Voter Fraud Charges NPR: A rare but dangerous flesh-eating bacteria is infecting Florida residents BBC: The end of a tumultuous day AP News: Putin adds martial law in Ukraine regions, limits in Russia Washington Post: KEY FINDINGS FROM THE POST’S SERIES ON VETERANS’ LUCRATIVE FOREIGN JOBS Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Donald Trump has been questioned in the E. Jean Carroll defamation lawsuit. According to new reports, Trump signed legal documents alleging instances of fraud during the 2020 election that he knew were false. An oversight report shared with Congress found that Covid was responsible for 1 in 4 maternal deaths in the first two years of the pandemic. The family of George Floyd announced that they plan to file a lawsuit worth 250 million dollars against Kanye West. Finally for today, Randy Kaufman, a republican who is running for a governing board in Arizona, has been arrested on a charge of public sexual indecency after getting caught masturbating behind his truck near a preschool. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: USA Today: Trump questioned in E. Jean Carroll defamation lawsuit. What we know about the case. Axios: Judge: Trump signed off on voter fraud allegations he knew were false in legal docs Axios: COVID played a role in 1 in 4 maternal deaths, federal watchdog says NPR: The family of George Floyd plans to file a $250 million lawsuit against Ye HuffPost: Arizona GOP Candidate Arrested For Allegedly Masturbating In Truck Near Preschool Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Early voting for the midterms started in Georgia on Monday, and a record number of voters showed up for the first day of in-person voting. Biden announced yesterday that the White House would send a bill to codify abortion to the House, to be signed around the 50th anniversary of Roe on January 22nd, 2023. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is warning that China is speeding up its plans to try to seize Taiwan. A new study on Environmental Pollution has attempted to quantify the carbon emissions from California’s wildfires, and the damage they’re causing. Finally for today, millions of Americans can now legally purchase hearing aids over the counter for significantly less than before. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: The Hill: Georgia smashes record for early voting Axios: Biden plots his first piece of post-midterms legislation: codifying Roe Washington Post: China plans to seize Taiwan on ‘much faster timeline,’ Blinken says Axios: California's climate goals are going up in smoke: study CNBC: Hearing aids are now available over the counter at Walmart, Walgreens, CVS and Best Buy Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: The Biden administration has launched its online application for student loan borrowers to claim loan relief this week, while Covid officials scramble to plan for the Omicron subvariant threat. The nonprofit Center for Popular Democracy has found that US pharmaceutical companies have been responsible for significant EPA violations in Puerto Rico. Kanye West has offered to buy the right-wing social media network Parler, while the DOJ is recommending that Steve Bannon be sentenced to 6 months in prison. Finally for today, the Trump Organization charged the secret service 5-6 times the market rate to stay at his properties while they were on his protection detail. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: AP News: Student loan forgiveness application website goes live Politico: Biden Covid officials scramble to plan for Omicron subvariant threat Mother Jones: Big Pharma Is Flooding Puerto Rico With Toxic Waste AP News: Kanye West to buy conservative social media platform Parler NPR: DOJ calls for six-month sentence for Trump ally Steve Bannon Washington Post: Trump charged Secret Service ‘exorbitant’ rates at his hotels, records show Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: 4 people were killed and 61 injured following a major fire at the notorious Evin Prison in Tehran on Saturday evening. Current democratic senator Raphael Warnock debated his republican opponent Herschel Walker on Saturday night. Republican candidate Kari Lake refused to say in a CNN interview whether she would accept the results of her election if she loses the governor’s race in Arizona. New reporting reveals that Trump moved all of his business assets into another company the day the most recent lawsuit was filed. Finally for today, Elon Musk is being investigated by federal authorities in regard to his conduct in the course of the twitter acquisition. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: BBC: Evin prison fire: Several dead after fire at Iran's notorious detention centre VOX: What we learned from the Walker-Warnock debate Axios: Kari Lake refuses to say whether she will accept election results if she loses Business Insider: Donald Trump has incorporated 'Trump Organization II' in apparent dodge of NY fraud case, officials say Axios: Trump: I could "easily" be Israel's prime minister CNN: Elon Musk is under federal investigation over his Twitter deal, Twitter claims Washington Post: Musk appeasement of Putin and China stokes fears of new Twitter policies Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Yesterday the House January 6th committee held what they said would be their final session, but that was before we knew that they were contemplating issuing a subpoena to Donald Trump himself. A Trump employee told federal investigators that Trump personally instructed him to move documents that the National Archives and DOJ were trying to get back. The Supreme Court rejected Trump’s request that the special master be given access to review the approximately 100 classified documents that were separated from the other 11 thousand other documents found at Mar-a-Lago. New reporting from the Wall Street Journal reviewed the past 5 years worth of financial disclosures across 50 federal regulatory agencies, and found major levels of corruption. Finally for this week, CVS announced yesterday that they are absorbing the price of the tampon tax in 12 states. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: Committee subpoenas Donald Trump, other highlights from Jan. 6 hearing Washington Post: Trump worker told FBI about moving Mar-a-Lago boxes on ex-president’s orders NBC: Omicron booster shots cleared for children as young as 5, CDC says WSJ: The Regulators of Facebook, Google and Amazon Also Invest in the Companies’ Stocks CBS: CVS cuts cost of menstrual products in 12 states with "tampon tax" Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: A Connecticut jury has decided that Alex Jones must pay 14 family members of 8 Sandy Hook Elementary School victims, plus an FBI agent, a collective total of $965 million. A federal watchdog within the Treasury Department has opened an investigation into his misuse of taxpayer funds to pay for 50 asylum-seeking migrants to be flown privately from Texas to Martha’s Vineyard. Pfizer’s modified vaccine is now cleared for kids 5 to 11; Moderna was cleared for kids 6 through 17. Finally for today, the January 6th committee’s final hearing is today starting at 1pm EST, and the U.S. government plans to announce what is expected to be the largest increase in social security payments in four decades. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NY Times: Alex Jones Ordered to Pay Sandy Hook Victims’ Families Nearly $1 Billion Axios: Federal watchdog investigating DeSantis' transport of migrants NBC: Omicron booster shots cleared for children as young as 5, CDC says CBS News: How to watch Thursday's House Jan. 6 committee public hearing AP News: Social Security payments set for big increase. What to know. Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: The G-7 announced yesterday that they are committed to standing with Ukraine amidst the latest wave of military strikes, and will continue to support Ukraine. Israel and Lebanon agreed to a US-brokered deal yesterday that ends a decade-long dispute over their maritime border. President Biden is seriously reconsidering the U.S.’ with Saudi Arabia due to last week to significantly cut oil production starting in November. NASA conducted a test to see whether they could use a spacecraft to break up an asteroid in order to shift its orbit. Finally for today, TikTok is planning to build product fulfillment centers in the US, in an attempt to directly challenge Amazon. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: Biden says Putin ‘totally miscalculated’ Ukraine invasion amid calls for air defense systems Washington Post: Israel says historic agreement made with Lebanon on maritime borders Axios: Biden "to re-evaluate" U.S.-Saudi relationship after OPEC oil cut AP News: Smashing success: NASA asteroid strike results in big nudge Axios: Scoop: TikTok chases Amazon with plans for U.S. fulfillment centers Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: President Biden warned that Putin’s threats amounted to the most serious prospect of Armageddon since the Cuban missile crisis; Ukrainians have made a significant military advancement after blowing up the bridge between Crimea and Russia; Russia retaliated by unleashing the worst and most widespread strikes against Ukraine in the past several months. North Korea conducted a barrage of missile launch tests this weekend. As protests in Iran enter their fourth week, the death toll has reached 185 people. Approximately 23 million people in California will receive tax refunds to help families who are strained by rising inflation; Gavin Newsom called for a special session to address skyrocketing profits of oil companies. Finally for today, the Uvalde school district announced that they’ve suspended their entire school police force. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NY Times: Biden Pardons Thousands Convicted of Marijuana Possession Under Federal Law NY Times: Explosion on 12-Mile Crimea Bridge Kills 3 AP News: Russia unleashes biggest attacks in Ukraine in months AP News: NKorea confirms simulated use of nukes to ‘wipe out’ enemies Axios: Children among 185 killed during Iran protest unrest, rights group says Axios: U.S. issues more sanctions against officials in Iran as government crackdown persists LA Times: 23 million Californians will get gas tax refunds beginning today: What you need to know ABC 7: Gov. Newsom calls for special legislative session to address rising gas prices Washington Post: A California city’s water supply is expected to run out in two months CNN: Uvalde school district suspends its police force, 2 school officials placed on administrative leave after CNN report Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: President Biden announced yesterday that he is pardoning all prior federal offenses of simple marijuana possession, and calling on governors to pardon simple state possession offenses as well. Apollo Management and Sixth Street Partners are no longer in talks to finance the Elon Musk Twitter deal. The UN Human Rights Council has rejected a motion to hold a debate on China's alleged human rights violations in Xinjiang. Finally for this week, the United States and Albania have called for a vote in the General Assembly to condemn Russia’s attempted recent annexation of four Ukrainian regions. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NY Times: Biden Pardons Thousands Convicted of Marijuana Possession Under Federal Law Reuters: Exclusive: Apollo, Sixth Street no longer in talks to finance Twitter deal Axios: UN Human Rights Council rejects debate on Xinjiang abuses AP. News: Russia seeks secret UN vote on condemning Ukraine annexation Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: SpaceX launched four crew members to the International Space Station yesterday. OPEC, led by Russia and Saudi Arabia, has made moves to slash oil production, eliciting a blistering White House response. Putin signed the final papers yesterday to annex four regions of Ukraine. The nationwide response to the Islamic Republic’s murder of a 22 year old woman for refusing to wear a headscarf has lasted for over 2 weeks. Finally for today, the estimated number of violent crimes decreased slightly in 2021, according to FBI data Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: CNN: SpaceX, NASA launch 3 astronauts and 1 cosmonaut to the ISS. Here’s everything you need to know Washington Post: OPEC, allies move to slash oil production, eliciting blistering White House response AP News: Putin signs annexation of Ukrainian regions as losses mount Washington Post: Tactics of repression: How Iran is trying to stop Mahsa Amini protests Axios: FBI data shows U.S. violent crimes decreased slightly in 2021 Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Donald Trump's lawyers have filed an emergency request asking the Supreme Court to intervene regarding the classified documents he was hoarding at Mar-a-Lago. Texas governor Greg Abbott sent another group of 46 Venezuelan migrants on a bus to Vice President Kamala Harris’s house in DC. Georgia Senate candidate Herschel Walker, who publicly claims to be strongly anti-abortion, actually paid for his girlfriend to have an abortion in 2009. Student athletes in several school districts in Florida will now be required to fill out information online about their periods in order to participate in games. Finally for today, Elon Musk has officially agreed to buy Twitter for 44 billion dollars. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: Trump asks Supreme Court to intervene in Mar-a-Lago search case Independent: Greg Abbott sends more migrants to Kamala Harris’s Washington DC home Daily Beast: ‘Pro-Life’ Herschel Walker Paid for Girlfriend’s Abortion Twitter: Christian Walker Status Jezebel: Florida Schools Are Asking Student-Athletes to Report Their Menstrual Histories Bloomberg: Musk Revives $44 Billion Twitter Bid, Aiming to Avoid Trial Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: The Supreme Court is hearing a number of very charged and important issues next term. The National Archives has sent a new letter to Congress stating that they still do not have all of the records that they should have from the Trump administration. The January 6th committee has tentatively set the date of their rescheduled hearing for Thursday, October 13th. Kim Kardashian has agreed to pay 1.26 million dollars in order to settle SEC charges for failing to disclose that she was paid to promote EthereumMax on instagram. 16 of Florida’s Republican members of the House of Representatives voted against a government funding bill, which happens to include FEMA funding for disaster relief; New York Post and the Daily Beast state that migrants are now being transported from New York to Florida to assist with the Hurricane Ian recovery. Finally for today, Brazil held a presidential election on Sunday. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: New Yorker: The Supreme Court’s Big New Term ABC: National Archives still missing some Trump administration records Bloomberg: House Jan. 6 Panel Tentatively Reschedules Hearing for Next Week CNBC: Kim Kardashian pays over $1 million to settle SEC charges linked to a crypto promo on her Instagram Axios: Rubio, Scott call for Ian relief as Florida GOP votes against FEMA funding New York Post: NYC migrants pile into vans they say are headed to Florida for Hurricane Ian cleanup Daily Beast: Irony Meter Explodes as Migrants Lured TO Florida for Hurricane Ian Cleanup NY Times: Bolsonaro and His Leftist Challenger, Lula, Are Headed for a Runoff, Officials Say Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: After hitting multiple islands and southwestern Florida last week, Hurricane Ian again made landfall on the coast of South Carolina over the weekend as a category 1 storm. In Cuba, where power for the entire country of 11 million people was knocked out by the storm, residents gathered to protest the lack of electricity. Russia attempted to unilaterally annex 4 regions of Ukraine, with Putin claiming that the annexations of Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia this past Friday; Ukraine disagrees on the risk of Putin actually using nuclear weapons; Ukraine formally submitted its fast-tracked application for NATO membership. The Justice Department accused a couple of conspiring to provide the Russian government with medical information about U.S. soldiers and their relatives on Friday. Finally for today, Donald Trump escalated his war with none other than Mitch McConnell this weekend. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: Washington Post: Florida begins cleanup in aftermath of Ian Reuters: Havana protests flare for second night as Cuba scrambles to turn on lights USA Today: Putin proclaims he's annexing four regions of Ukraine; U.S. slaps new sanctions on Russia: Sept. 30 recap NPR: The pope makes his strongest plea yet for an end to Russia's war on Ukraine NBC: Ukraine retakes a key city Putin claimed to have annexed. Here's why it matters. NBC: Johns Hopkins doctor and Army doctor spouse charged with conspiring to give U.S. soldiers' medical info to Russia Washington Post: Trump escalates attacks on McConnell with ‘DEATH WISH’ post Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: More news from Hurricane Ian, which turned out to be one of the worst hurricanes in America’s history, continues to pour in. After months of will she/won’t she, Ginni Thomas finally voluntarily testified to the House January 6th committee yesterday. Aileen Cannon overruled the special master Raymond Dearie’s request that Trump’s lawyers don’t have to clarify Mar-a-Lago document claims. Six Republican-led states are suing the Biden administration over his student loan plan. Finally for this week, The FDA has approved a new treatment for ALS. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: AP News: Floods trap many in Florida as Ian heads to South Carolina Axios: Ginni Thomas cooperative in Jan. 6 committee interview Federalist: Ginni Thomas Shuts Down Misconduct Claims In Voluntary Testimony Before J6 Panel Washington Post: Judge rules Trump lawyers don’t have to clarify Mar-a-Lago document claims AP News: GOP states sue Biden administration over student loan plan CNN: ALS drug gets FDA approval despite uncertainty about effectiveness Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Hurricane Ian hit southwestern Florida as a category 4 storm near Cayo Costa, knocking out the power of over 1.8 million people and leaving people trapped in flooded homes. Universities and colleges in Idaho are warning staffers not to refer students to abortion providers or tell them how to get emergency contraception. The founder of the Oath Keepers Stewart Rhodes, along with 4 other members of the extremist group, have just begun their trial for seditious conspiracy. The US embassy in Moscow is encouraging Americans with dual citizenship to leave immediately, or else they could be drafted by Putin’s mandatory military conscription order. Finally for this week, the Senate is enacting an attempt to protect the 2024 election through the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NY Times: Live Updates: Hurricane Ian Takes Aim at Florida After Leaving Cuba in the Dark PBS: Idaho universities disallow abortion, contraception referrals for students Washington Post: Jury selection underway in Oath Keepers seditious conspiracy trial New York Times: Latest U.S. Military Package for Ukraine Suggests Shift in Focus to Long, Open-Ended War Washington Post: The crumbling GOP opposition to electoral count reform bill Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Hurricane Ian has made its debut in Florida, with officials warning of dangerous storm surges, flooding, and powerful winds to come. A Texas process server attempted to serve the state’s Attorney General Ken Paxton with a subpoena to appear in federal court in a lawsuit brought by nonprofit reproductive health groups who want to help Texans pay for abortions out of state. Mark Meadows did not show up yesterday in response to his subpoena in Fulton County, Georgia. Finally for today, Students at schools across Virginia participated in walkouts yesterday, in protest of Governor Glenn Youngkin’s new policies restricting the rights of transgender students. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NY Times: Live Updates: Hurricane Ian Takes Aim at Florida After Leaving Cuba in the Dark Texas Tribune: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton fled his home to avoid being served with subpoena, court record says The Hill: Riggleman says Mark Meadows text messages reveal ‘roadmap to an attempted coup’ Washington Post: Va. students walk out of classes in protest of Youngkin transgender policy Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's headlines: Italy’s new prime minister will be Giorgia Meloni of the far-right Brothers of Italy party, who will lead the most right-leaning government since World War II. Vladimir Putin granted Russian citizenship to Edward Snowden. Hurricane Ian is expected to make landfall in western Florida tomorrow as a category 4 storm, with winds exceeding 140 miles per hour. Finally for today, the House January 6th committee resumes after its midseason hiatus tomorrow. Resources/Articles mentioned this episode: NPR: What you need to know about Italy's new far-right leader Giorgia Meloni BBC: Edward Snowden granted Russian citizenship AP News: Hurricane Ian nears Cuba on path to strike Florida as Cat 4 Axios: What we know going into the final Jan. 6 hearing Host: Sami Sage Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Original Music and Editing by Brandon Lee Bjornson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices