Morning Announcements

This Friday's episode begins with confirmed cases of the Omicron variant hitting the United States. Then we get an update on the potential government shutdown. Next, we hear the latest on the Oxford High School shooting. We also cover the severe impact of a staffing crisis in New York State. Finally, we get details on Angela Merkel transferring power to her successor in Germany. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: Omicron cases confirmed in 5 U.S. states NPR: House approves a short-term funding bill to avoid a government shutdown Washington Post: Charging decision for Washington school shooting suspect's parents is imminent, says official Times Union: Staff crisis had state planning to move disabled into facility with cots AP: Germany’s Merkel at farewell ceremony: Don’t tolerate hate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We start with what happened during the Mississippi abortion rights case yesterday and the very first case of the Omicron variant detected in the United States. Next, we talk about the Cuomo brothers and Stacey Abrams’ announcement that she’s running again for governor of Georgia against Brian Kemp in 2022. Lastly, we have some more tragic news out of Michigan. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: “Supreme Court seems inclined to uphold Mississippi abortion law that would undermine Roe v. Wade” NY Times: “Covid Live Updates: California Reports First Omicron Case in U.S.” AP News: “CNN suspends Chris Cuomo for helping brother in scandal” Axios: “Stacey Abrams launches second campaign for Georgia governor” AP News: “Michigan teen charged in Oxford High School shooting” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We kick off today's news day with a couple stories about Trump. Next, we cover why the House leadership is considering whether to take action against Rep. Lauren Boebert. over some inappropriate comments Then, we share some breaking news from the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Meanwhile, we unpack what went down in Barbados and Dr. Oz.'s announcement that he will be running for Senate in Pennsylvania next year. Finally, we close with the tragedy at a Michigan highschool and updates from the Ghislaine Maxwell trial (trigger warning: discussion of school shootings and sexual assault). Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: The Guardian: "Trump called aides hours before Capitol riot to discuss how to stop Biden victory" Buzzfeed News: "A Court Temporarily Paused Trump's Records From Going To The Jan. 6 Committee" Washington Post: "Trump Jan. 6 records lawsuit goes before appeals court" Buzzfeed News: "The Government Was Ordered To Unveil More Of The Mueller Report After A Court Ruled In Favor Of BuzzFeed News" Axios: "Top House Democrats weigh action against GOP Rep. Boebert" Wisconsin Supreme Court Decisions The Cut: "Rihanna Is Officially a National Hero" CNN: "Dr. Oz announces bid for US Senate seat in Pennsylvania" NBC News: "3 killed, 8 injured in shooting at Oxford High School in suburban Detroit" Daily Beast: "Ghislaine Maxwell’s Accuser: She Was in the Room While Epstein Raped Me" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s start with our Omicron variant update. Next, we talk about Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey's decision to step down (and who his replacement is). Yesterday was also the beginning of the trial of Ghislaine Maxwell. Finally, we share a story about what's happening in Barbados. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: "Biden calls omicron variant concerning but ‘not a cause for panic’ as WHO says risk ‘very high’" NY Times: "Twitter’s Jack Dorsey Steps Down From C.E.O. Role" AP News: "Maxwell, Epstein were ‘partners in crime,’ prosecutor says" BBC: "Barbados to remove Queen Elizabeth as head of state" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a new COVID variant in town (but honestly, what else is new?). Meanwhile, on Wednesday the Supreme Court plans to hear arguments in a case out of Mississippi that will likely determine whether or not Roe v Wade is overturned. Next, we turn to how the Texas abortion law makes risky pregnancies more difficult (yes, even harder than it already is). And on Friday, Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky claimed that a group of Russians and Ukrainians are currently plotting a coup against him for next month. Lastly, we cover the loss of two incredible artists. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: "Covid Live Updates: Scientists Focus on Whether Omicron Variant Causes Severe Illness" AP News: "Supreme Court set to take up all-or-nothing abortion fight" NY Times: "Texas Abortion Law Complicates Care for Risky Pregnancies" Washington Post: "Ukraine’s Zelensky alleges Russia plotting coup against him for next week" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s start today with our favorite segment, Democracy Watch. Next, we move to why the Republican National Committee is paying some of former President Donald Trump's legal bills and an update on the Charlottesville rally trial. Finally, we end with the pharmacy companies responsible for fueling the opioid crisis. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: "U.S. listed as a ‘backsliding’ democracy for first time in report by European think tank" CNN: "RNC is paying some of Trump's legal fees in New York probe into Trump Organization" Washington Post: "Charlottesville 'Unite the Right' trial verdict: Live updates" Washington Post: "Daily coronavirus cases up 18 percent, according to CDC director" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We begin with the aftermath of the Waukesha Christmas Parade incident, before covering some January 6th committee updates. Next we share some conclusions from the 8 month long investigation over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, as well as some disappointing (but unsurprising) news about Facebook. Plus, we share Biden's nominees for the Federal Reserve. Lastly, we have an update for you on the Theranos trial. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: "After SUV slammed into Wis. parade and killed 5, driver to be charged with homicide" AP News: "Alex Jones, Roger Stone subpoenaed by House Jan. 6 committee" NY Times: "Assembly Finds ‘Overwhelming Evidence’ Cuomo Engaged in Sexual Harassment" Washington Post: "Facebook’s race-blind practices around hate speech came at the expense of Black users, new documents show" Axios: "Biden's Fed pick puts progressives on notice" Axios: "Ex-Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes testifies in her own defense" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's catch you up on some news, starting with the Kyle Rittenhouse verdict. We move to our next story on Ohio's newly approved congressional district map, before covering the mysterious disappearance of Chinese tennis star, Peng Shuai. Finally, let's end with a lighter story on the first US city to require free menstrual products in public restrooms. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: "Kyle Rittenhouse Acquitted on All Counts" Axios: "Ohio lawmakers pass new congressional district map" CNN: "Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai said she is safe in video call, says International Olympic Committee" NPR: "Michigan city will require all public restrooms to carry free menstrual products" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We start with an update on what's holding up the Build Back Better bill in congress (looking at you Joe Manchin). Next, we hear about Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt commuting the death penalty sentence of Julius Jones. Plus, we get another update on the slow deliberations in the Kyle Rittenhouse case, which involves some controversy surrounding a journalist's coverage. Finally, a coalition of state attorneys general have launched an investigation into how Instagram draws in young users and affects their well-being. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WaPo: House readies Thursday evening vote on $2 trillion spending plan backed by Biden NYT: Oklahoma Governor Commutes Inmate’s Death Sentence Hours Before Execution AP: Rittenhouse jury deliberates for third day without a verdict Axios: State AGs launch Instagram investigation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Thursday's episode starts with actual consequences for the "QAnon Shaman" resulting from his role in the January 6th insurrection, and mild accountability in the House for Republican Paul Gosar. We hear new data about opioid use in the US. Then we get an update on the Kyle Rittenhouse trial, as well as the trial of Ahmaud Arbery's killers in Georgia, and the possible exoneration of two men convicted of killing Malcolm X. Finally, we hear about the disappearance of Chinese tennis player Peng Shuai after she claimed in a Weibo post that the country’s former vice premier sexually assaulted her. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: WaPo: ‘QAnon shaman’ sentenced to 41 months for role in Capitol riot WaPo: House censures Rep. Gosar, ejects him from committees over video depicting slaying of Rep. Ocasio-Cortez Axios: Drug overdose deaths top 100,000 for first time AP: Rittenhouse lawyers ask judge to declare mistrial over video AP: Man who shot Arbery testifies: ‘He had my gun. He struck me’ NYT: 2 Men Convicted of Killing Malcolm X Will Be Exonerated After Decades Guardian: Naomi Osaka expresses ‘shock’ over missing Chinese tennis star Peng Shuai Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today begins with some good news about widespread approval of the Pfizer vaccine booster, and an agreement for international use of the Pfizer COVID antiviral pill. Next, hear about the bizarre jury lottery selection process approved by the judge in Kyle Rittenhouse's case. Finally, the House of Representatives will vote on a resolution to censure Paul Gosar for his vile AOC tweet, and Wyoming Republicans voted to disavow Liz Cheney as a member of their party. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NYT: The F.D.A. plans to authorize Pfizer-BioNTech boosters for all adults as soon as Thursday Axios: Pfizer agrees to share recipe for COVID-19 pill Chicago Sun Times: No verdict after daylong deliberations by Kyle Rittenhouse jury CNN: House plans to vote Wednesday to censure Paul Gosar and strip him of committee assignments WaPo: Wyoming GOP says it will no longer recognize Liz Cheney as a Republican after she criticized Trump Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We begin today with another update on Steve Bannon's indictments. Next, we offer details on the $1 trillion infrastructure bill finally becoming law, as well as Biden's latest action on reducing crime and human trafficking on Native American lands. We also get an update on Kyle Rittenhouse's trial as the jury prepares to deliberate. Finally, we close things with Beto O'Rourke announcing his candidacy for Governor of Texas. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: Trump ally Steve Bannon released from custody pending trial on contempt of Congress charges NYT: Here’s what’s in the infrastructure bill that Biden signed today AP: Biden boosts crime fighting efforts on Native American lands Guardian: Kyle Rittenhouse trial: jury prepares to deliberate after closing arguments Texas Tribune: Beto O’Rourke says he’s running for Texas governor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The week starts with some good news: Britney is free! Next, we share an update on Steve Bannon and Mark Meadows FINALLY facing consequences for not cooperating with the January 6th committee. Wisconsin is facing a redistricting crisis, and the FBI was hit with a hacking crisis of their own. Olympic gold medalist Suni Lee revealed that she was pepper sprayed while in LA last month. Finally, Austria is cracking down on unvaccinated citizens. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Britney Spears' conservatorship is terminated after more than 13 years Federal grand jury indicts former Trump adviser Steve Bannon for contempt of Congress Wisconsin GOP OKs redistricting plans while Dems can’t agree Fake FBI emails about a sophisticated attack are part of 'ongoing situation,' agency says Olympic gold medalist Suni Lee says she was pepper-sprayed in a racist attack Austria orders nationwide lockdown for the unvaccinated Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We start with an update on the January 6th committee’s attempts to get Trump to give up the documents that have been subpoenaed. Next, we share a proposed resolution from a group of House Democrats following Representative Paul Gosar's tweets depicting him killing Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Then, we move to the ninth death resulting from the Astroworld festival, before closing with a story about the NRA. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: "Appeals court grants temporary stay in release of Trump's Jan. 6 records" Washington Post: "House Democrats introduce resolution to censure Rep. Gosar over animated video that depicted him killing Rep. Ocasio-Cortez" AP News: "Texas A&M student hurt at Astroworld dies; death toll at 9" NPR: "A secret tape made after Columbine shows the NRA's evolution on school shootings" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We begin today with the Kyle Rittenhouse trial. Next, we cover the inflation surge, before moving to a surprise announcement from the United States and China. Lastly, we wrap with the $600 million dollar Flint water settlement. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NPR: "Defense calls for mistrial as Kyle Rittenhouse takes the stand in his homicide trial" NPR: "Inflation surges to its highest since 1990" Washington Post: "U.S. and China issue joint pledge to slow climate change" Axios: "Holocaust Museum report warns China 'may be committing genocide'" Detroit News: "Judge gives final approval to $600M-plus Flint water settlement" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The January 6th committee issued 10 more subpoenas yesterday, so let's unpack who these were issued to. Meanwhile, the Republican Party is reportedly considering stripping committee assignments from their 13 members of Congress who voted in favor of the bill. Yesterday, Pfizer asked the FDA to allow boosters of its COVID-19 vaccine for anyone 18 or older. Also, Oklahoma’s Supreme Court tossed out a ruling in a 2019 opioid case against Johnson &Johnson worth $465 million dollars. Lastly, we close with Malala Yousafzai's marriage to Asser Malik. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: "House Inquiry Into Jan. 6 Issues 10 New Subpoenas" Reuters: "U.S. judge denies Trump bid to block Jan 6 select committee investigation" Washington Post: "GOP floats punishment for its 13 states" AP News: "Pfizer asks FDA to OK COVID-19 booster shots for all adults" NPR: "Oklahoma's Supreme Court tossed out a landmark $465 million opioid ruling" AP News: "Malala Yousafzai announces her marriage on Twitter" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yesterday the January 6th committee in the House issued subpoenas to 6 of Trump’s top advisors. Speaking of the insurrectionists, Representative Paul Gosar of Arizona shared a quite concerning video on Twitter. Next we share more updates on the Astroworld tragedy before closing with some good news. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: “House Jan. 6 committee issues subpoenas to 6 top Trump advisers, including pair involved in Willard hotel ‘command center’” Newsweek: “Paul Gosar Posts Anime Video Showing Him Killing Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez” AP News: “‘A mass loss of control:’ Answers sought in Houston concert” NPR: “Live Nation, a company behind Astroworld, has a long history of safety violations” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Something major passed in Congress last Friday, so let's start today off by unpacking it. Next, let's talk about some voter fraud news regarding the Virginia election. Meanwhile, this past weekend, a federal appeals court temporarily blocked a new coronavirus vaccine mandate for large businesses with over 100 employees. And for our last story, we cover the tragedy at the Astroworld music festival. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: "Congress passes $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill, delivering major win for Biden" Washington Post: "Virginia Gov.-elect Youngkin’s underaged son tried to vote in Tuesday’s election, elections officials said" NY Times: "A court temporarily blocks Biden’s vaccine mandate" AP News: "Pfizer says COVID-19 pill cut hospital, death risk by 90%" NY Times: "What to Know About the Houston Astroworld Tragedy" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another day, another update on the election results. Yesterday, a federal judge slammed Trump’s attempt to shield documents from Congress. Next, we have quite a satisfying story to share. Then, in Wisconsin in the Kyle Rittenhouse trial, one of the jurors was dismissed yesterday morning after he made a joke to a deputy about the shooting of Jacob Blake. And lastly, yesterday some bombshell reporting came out in Business Insider about the founder of Barstool Dave Portnoy. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: HuffPost: "At Least 10 Republicans Who Were At The Jan. 6 Rally Just Got Elected To Office" Daily Beast: "Judge Slams Trump’s Argument to Shield Jan. 6 Papers From Congress" The Hill: "Facebook discovers there's already a company named Meta" CNN: "Judge says 'there appears to be intentional discrimination' in Arbery jury selection, but allows trial to move forward with 1 Black juror" CNN: "Juror in Kyle Rittenhouse trial dismissed for telling joke about police shooting of Jacob Blake" Daily Beast: "Women Accuse Barstool Sports Founder of ‘Violent,’ Humiliating Sex, Report Says" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s start today off with some more election results. Next, we share some good news about paid leave and the reconciliation bill. Also yesterday in the Senate, Republicans blocked the debate of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. And lastly, Facebook announced on Tuesday that they’re getting rid of facial recognition. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: US News: “Republicans Win at Least 50 House Seats in Virginia” CNN: “Pelosi adds 4 weeks of paid family and medical leave back into social spending bill” NY Times: “Republicans Block a Second Voting Rights Bill in the Senate” Reuters: “Facebook will shut down facial recognition system” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First, we have some election results for you. (And of course, I’ll be back with more results and analysis tomorrow, as well as on the Betches Sup podcast). Next we have an update on the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5 to 11, the $1.85 trillion dollar spending bill, and a compromise on the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. Finally, we close this news day with a small climate win. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: "Eric Adams wins New York City mayoral race" NY Times: "The next Manhattan D.A. will inherit the Trump investigation" CDC: "CDC Recommends Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5 to 11 Years" NY Times: "Democrats Add Drug Cost Curbs to Social Policy Plan, Pushing for Vote" Axios: "Bipartisan group of senators announce compromise on voting rights bill" NPR: "Nations with 85% of Earth's forests pledge to reverse deforestation" AP News: "Leaders vow to protect forests, plug methane leaks at COP26" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today is Election Day - so consider this your official reminder to go vote! Yesterday the Supreme Court heard two challenges to Texas’s new abortion law. Next, we move to spending bill (yes, again), before wrapping with an explanation of the phrase "Let's Go Brandon." Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: "Biden administration asserts 'no constitutional right is safe’ if Texas abortion law allowed to stand" CNN: "Manchin warns he may vote against Biden social safety net plan as he criticizes key aspects" NPR: "A Southwest pilot is under investigation for the divisive phrase 'Let's go, Brandon'" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We start with a bunch of breaking news from last week including an update on the Pfizer vaccine, a decision coming out of the Supreme Court, and Joe Biden's meeting with Pope Francis. Next we move to why Republican representative Adam Kinzinger will not seek reelection for his House seat and a summary from the G20 summit. Lastly, tomorrow is Election Day, so this is your reminder to vote. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Axios: “FDA authorizes Pfizer vaccine for kids 5 to 11” NY Times: “Supreme Court won’t block Maine’s vax mandate for health care workers” CNN: “‘God love ya’: Warm relationship between the world’s most powerful Catholics on display as Biden and Pope Francis meet” Axios: “Kinzinger will not seek re-election in 2022” AP News: “G-20 make mild pledges on climate neutrality, coal financing” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We kick off with President Biden’s announcement that the final reconciliation bill will be $1.75 trillion dollars. Next, let’s share some news from Facebook, before closing with why there’s a probe into school library books. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: “What’s in Biden’s spending plan” Axios: “How Facebook plans to build its metaverse” Axios: “Texas House probes school library books dealing with race and sexuality” Targetted book list Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s start by talking about the spending package (again). It’s now looking likely that paid family and medical leave is going to be dropped from the bill completely. Stories continue to emerge from the Facebook Papers that you might find interesting. Next, the United States has issued its first passport with an “X” gender designation and 108,000 people will have their medical debt wiped out partially thanks to funding raised by Fair Fight. Lastly, we have an election announcement. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: “Biden urges bill over ‘finish line’ as Dems eye new surtax” NY Times: “A paid family leave program is likely to be dropped from the social policy bill at Manchin’s urging” AP News: “Apple once threatened Facebook ban over Midwest maid abuse” Washington Post: “Rep. Mo Brooks, denying planning role in Jan. 6 rally, says he’d be ‘proud’ if his staff helped out” AP News: “United States issues its 1st passport with ‘X’ gender marker” NPR: “108,000 people will get medical debt relief after Stacey Abrams’ PAC gifts $1.34M” AP News: “Letitia James will run for New York governor” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For our first story, we have a scandal right out of Liberty University. Next, let’s do an update on the spending bill in Congress, before getting to the billionaire tax proposal. Plus, Spanx founder Sara Blakely just sold her company to Blackstone at a valuation of about $1.2 billion dollars. Then, we cover Princess Mako's wedding, a new U.S. private refugee sponsorship program, and Pfizer's Covid vaccine for kids ages 5-11. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: ProPublica: "'The Liberty Way': How Liberty University Discourages and Dismisses Students’ Reports of Sexual Assaults" CNN: "Americans may finally get paid family leave. Here's what to know" Axios: "Biden plan expected to include at least $500B for climate" Washington Post: "The world needs to cut its emissions seven times as fast to hit climate goals, U.N. report finds" Washington Post: "Democrats' billionaire tax would heavily target 10 wealthiest Americans, but alternative plan is emerging" NY Times: "At Last, a Royal Wedding. But No Trumpets, Just a News Conference" NPR: "Spanx CEO surprises employees with 2 first-class plane tickets and $10,000" Axios: "U.S. will now allow private citizens to sponsor Afghan refugees" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let's start with yesterday’s military coup in Sudan. Next, we have to talk about Facebook and Tesla. Lastly, we have today’s edition of Democracy Watch (and this is a big one, everyone). Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: "Sudan’s Military Seizes Power and Fires on Protesters: News Updates" AP News: "US condemns Sudan coup, suspends $700 million in aid" NPR: "The Facebook Papers: What you need to know about the trove of insider documents" AP News: "Facebook profits rise amid revelations from leaked documents" NY Times: "Tesla shares surpass $1 trillion in value" Rolling Stone: "Jan. 6 Protest Organizers Say They Participated in ‘Dozens’ of Planning Meetings With Members of Congress and White House Staff" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last week, Alec Baldwin fired a gun on the set of the movie Rust, accidentally killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and wounding the director Joel Souza. Next, we have an update on if we’re ever getting any sort of deal on an infrastructure spending bill. We share a shady story about Johnson & Johnson, before closing with a weather report and an announcement from the White House. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: LA Times: "Everything we know so far about the fatal shooting of Halyna Hutchins on the ‘Rust’ set" CNN: "Crew member yelled 'cold gun' as he handed Alec Baldwin prop weapon, court document shows" NPR: "The fatal shooting of Halyna Hutchins is prompting calls to ban real guns from sets" AP News: "Biden, Manchin and Schumer huddle, but still no budget deal" Axios: "Pelosi expects “billionaire’s tax” to pay for Biden social spending" Bloomberg: "J&J Loses a Round in Bankruptcy Spat Over Baby Powder Suits" NPR: "Powerful storm brings heavy rain, flooding and mud flows to Northern California" NPR: "White House delays the release of secret JFK assassination records, citing COVID-19" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House of Representatives voted to recommend prosecution under contempt charges to the Department of Justice for Steve Bannon. Yesterday in NYC, Mayor Bill DeBlasio announced that the city will require all police officers, firefighters, and other municipal workers to get COVID vaccines. Meanwhile, Paris Hilton met with members of Congress yesterday to discuss federal reforms of residential treatment centers for troubled teens. And lastly, the human remains that were found yesterday in Florida have turned out to be those of Brian Laundrie. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NBC News: "New York City mandates Covid vaccine for all city workers" NBC News: "Paris Hilton pushes for bill to crack down on abusive youth facilities" Paid Leave For All: "Letter from Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex" CNN: "Dental records show remains found at Carlton Reserve are those of Brian Laundrie, FBI says" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yesterday the FDA finally approved both the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson booster shots. On Tuesday night, the January 6th bipartisan House committee voted unanimously in favor of contempt-of-Congress charges against Steve Bannon. Moving to our next story, Republicans in the Senate unanimously blocked yet another piece of voting rights legislation called the Freedom to Vote Act. Meanwhile, Manchin has reportedly told associates that he is considering leaving the Democratic Party if they don’t agree to his demands to cut the infrastructure bill. Then, we cover some murder stories before closing with the Netflix employee walkout over Dave Chapelle's transgender comments in his comedy special. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: "FDA authorizes Moderna and Johnson & Johnson boosters and says people can get a shot different from their original dose" Reuters: "U.S. House committee backs contempt charge against Trump aide Bannon" NY Times: "Senate Republicans Block Voting Rights Bill, Leaving Its Fate in Doubt" Mother Jones: "Manchin Tells Associates He’s Considering Leaving the Democratic Party and Has an Exit Plan" CBS News: "Manslaughter conviction of 21-year-old Oklahoma woman who suffered miscarriage sparks outcry" Washington Post: "Gunman in Parkland school shooting pleads guilty to murdering 17 people" NPR: "Potential human remains and items belonging to Brian Laundrie are found in Florida" AP News: "Chapelle special spurs Netflix walkout; ‘Trans lives matter’" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Last night, The January 6th insurrection committee voted to prosecute Steve Bannon for criminal contempt. Next, we move to a story about a Miami school that is telling vaccinated kids to stay home for 30 days after their shot, before moving over to the Secretary of Homeland Security's recent COVID test results. Finally, we cover the governor’s race in Virginia between Democrat Terry McAuliffe and Republican Glenn Youngkin. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: "Miami private school makes bogus claims about vaccines while ordering pupils who get a shot to stay home for 30 days" NBC News: "Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas tests positive for Covid" NBC Washington: "Taylor Swift, Glenn Youngkin and the Race for Virginia Governor Explained" AP News: "LA County wants Vanessa Bryant to undergo psychiatric exam" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yesterday former Secretary of State Colin Powell passed away due to COVID complications. Next, we move to some Strike-tober action before covering the trial of the three men who were charged with killing Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia last year. Finally, Donald Trump underwent an actual deposition for 4 and a half hours yesterday and we debrief you on more Trump legal news. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: "Colin Powell, first Black US secretary of state, dies of Covid-19 complications amid cancer battle" Washington Post: "More than 10,000 John Deere workers on strike after rejecting contract" NPR: "What you need to know about the start of the trial in the killing of Ahmaud Arbery" CNBC: "Trump sues Jan. 6 Capitol riot committee in bid to block records requests" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We got a short news day. First, we have an IATSE strike update, before revisiting a horrific story that broke late last week. Finally, former president Bill Clinton was discharged from the hospital yesterday. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Deadline: "Hollywood Strike Averted As IATSE & AMPTP Agree On New Film & TV Contract; Read Details Of Deal" NBC News: "Southlake school leader tells teachers to balance Holocaust books with 'opposing' views" Washington Post: "Former president Bill Clinton discharged from hospital after treatment for infection" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re starting today’s episode with our newest segment: Democracy Watch. Yesterday, the FDA advisory committee officially recommended Moderna booster shots for people ages 65 and older, as well as younger adults who are at high risk. Then, we move to some economic stories, the supply chain, before ending with our final headline about Robert Durst. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: "Jan. 6 panel moves against Bannon, sets contempt vote" NPR: "Experts recommend that FDA should authorize Moderna COVID vaccine booster" NY Times: "Social Security Benefits to Rise 5.9% in 2022, Most in Four Decades" NY Times: "Biden Announces Measures at Major Ports to Battle Supply Chain Woes" Washington Post: "Inflation climbs 5.4 percent in September as delta variant hurts recovery, supply chains" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We start with a new study about booster vaccines from the National Institute of Health. On Tuesday, the FDA authorized the first ever e-cigarette. Meanwhile, the chair of the Senate Homeland Security, senator Gary Peters has asked TikTok to provide information on its policies surrounding violent and extremist content. Next, we move to our new and exciting segment, Democracy Watch. To close, we end with Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas' memo ordering U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to stop mass worksite raids. Plus, we have an update on the potential strike by IATSE. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: "FDA to take up Moderna, J&J Covid-19 booster questions this week" AP News: "FDA authorizes first e-cigarette, cites benefit for smokers" CNN: "Senate Homeland Security chair asks TikTok for policies on extremist content" Mother Jones: "Texas Republicans Are Pulling Out All the Stops to Dilute the Voting Power of People of Color" Washington Post: "2020 Census may have undercounted Black Americans, new analyses say" Hollywood Reporter: "IATSE Sets Oct. 18 Strike Date if Contract Talks Aren’t Resolved" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We still have not quite settled the debt ceiling issue yet. New York City is giving every public school kindergartner $100 dollars in a college savings account, and California became the first state in the nation to adopt a law that will require large retail stores to provide gender-neutral toy sections. And in Texas, Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order prohibiting COVID-19 vaccine mandates by any "entity," if someone objects to the vaccine for "any reason of personal conscience. " Yesterday, a Wyoming coroner issued an update in the Gabby Petito case, and today we're going to close the Morning Announcements with a brand new segment called Democracy Watch. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: "House returns to stave off default with debt limit vote" NY Times: "Seeding Accounts for Kindergartners and Hoping to Grow College Graduates" LA Times: "California will require large retailers to provide gender-neutral toy sections" Axios: "Texas Gov. Greg Abbott bans COVID-19 vaccine mandates by any entity" AP News: "Coroner: Gabby Petito strangled 3-4 weeks before body found" NBC News: "Jan. 6 commission threatens criminal referrals after Steve Bannon snubs subpoena" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The pharmaceutical company Merck asked the FDA yesterday to grant them emergency use authorization for their new COVID antiviral pill. Also, you may have heard that Southwest Airlines has cancelled several hundred flights in recent days. Next we have a new update on the slow rolling Facebook scandal (but Facebook isn’t the only threat from cyberspace). Then we move to actor William Shatner’s scheduled flight on Jeff Bezos’ rocket Blue Origin before closing with some unfortunate news. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: “Merck asks US FDA to authorize promising anti-COVID pill” AP News: “Southwest cancels hundreds more flights, denies sickout” Axios: “Facebook whistleblower to brief Facebook Oversight Board, U.K. parliament” AP News: “Cyberattacks concerning to most in US: Pearson/AP-NORC poll” NPR: “William Shatner is bound for space, but the rest of us will have to wait” BBC: “Epstein: Met to take no action after Prince Andrew review” Business Insider: “Top House Republican Steve Scalise refused to say Trump lost the election 11 months after Biden won” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy Indigenous People’s Day. We start off with the reinstatement of Texas’ abortion law. Next we have an espionage story before closing with a report from Propublica about the systemic arrests of Black children in Tennessee for nonexistent crimes. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: “Biden is first president to mark Indigenous Peoples’ Day” NPR: “Federal appeals court temporarily reinstates Texas’ 6-week abortion ban” AP News: “Navy nuclear engineer charged with trying to pass secrets” ProPublica: “Black Children Were Jailed for a Crime That Doesn’t Exist. Almost Nothing Happened to the Adults in Charge” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The debt ceiling fight is officially over (for now). Unfortunately we have to talk about the insurrection and the status of the congressional committee that is currently investigating it. Google and YouTube announced a new policy yesterday that prevents creators who post climate misinformation from being able to monetize their content on its platforms via ads or creator payments. But can you really deny climate change when at least 4 people were killed in flash floods in Birmingham Alabama and nearby areas? Finally, 8 former NBA players were charged with defrauding the NBA’s health and welfare benefits in a scam that earned them about 2.5 million dollars illegally. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: "Default crisis dodged — for now — with Dem-GOP debt accord" Politico: "Trump tells 4 former aides to defy Jan. 6 committee's subpoena" Axios: "Google, YouTube to prohibit ads and monetization on climate denial content" NPR: "At least 4 people have died as flash floods swamp Alabama" NPR: "18 former NBA players are charged in a $4 million health care fraud scheme" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our first update this morning is on the debt ceiling negotiations. Next we move to a school shooting at a high school in Arlington, Texas, the World Health Organization's official approval of the first malaria vaccine, and some unsettling news involving phone provider AT&T. Lastly, we wrap with the temporary block of Texas' controversial abortion law. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: "Senate Democrats appear open to short-term debt ceiling reprieve from GOP" CNN: "A suspect is in custody in the Texas school shooting that left at least 4 people injured" NY Times: "First Malaria Vaccine Approved by W.H.O." Daily Beast: "We Can All Thank AT&T for the Rise of Pro-Trump One America News, Report Says" NBC News: "Federal judge temporarily blocks enforcement of Texas law banning most abortions" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yesterday Facebook's whistleblower testified in front of the Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and urged them to take action against Facebook. Next, we move to Johnson & Johnson's request for authorization from the FDA for its booster dose of the COVID vaccine, and why a Texas board is recommending posthumous pardon for George Floyd. Then, we cover why Tesla has been ordered by a federal jury to pay $137 million dollars to a former contractor, before moving to a major report revealing the abuse of over 300,000 minors by the French Catholic clergy. Finally, we finish off with why Kellogg's US. cereal plant workers are going on strike and the growing devastation of the oil spill in California. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: "Ex-Facebook manager criticizes company, urges more oversight" Washington Post: "Johnson & Johnson seeks emergency authorization from FDA for coronavirus booster shot" Washington Post: "Texas board recommends posthumous pardon for George Floyd in 2004 arrest" NPR: "Tesla must pay $137 million to a Black employee who sued for racial discrimination" Washington Post: "Catholic clergy in France likely abused more than 200,000 minors, independent commission estimates" Axios: "DOJ reviewing decision not to charge FBI agents in Nassar investigation" ABC News: "Workers at all of Kellogg's U.S. cereal plants go on strike" Axios: "California declares state of emergency over oil spill" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yesterday the world suffered through a massive outage of Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp. Speaking of Facebook, the company's stock fell 5 percent on Monday. Next, we move to Biden's remarks on raising the debt ceiling before wrapping with an update on the potential strike by thousands of crew members who work for Hollywood’s biggest streaming services and production studios. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: "Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram suffer worldwide outage" CNN: "Facebook whistleblower revealed on '60 Minutes,' says the company prioritized profit over public good" CNBC: "As Facebook suffers its worst sell-off of the year, a ‘reluctant shareholder’ shares her next move" AP News: "Biden tells GOP to ‘get out of the way’ on debt limit" NY Times: "Hollywood Crew Union Votes to Authorize Strike Against Studios" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s start the week where we left off last week and why we're still on track to run out of money by October 18th. On a slightly better note, we have some good news on the COVID front. Next, we cover the major California oil spill, new research showing the massive underreporting of police killings, before closing with our last (and scandalous) story. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: "Progressives Stand Firm on Priorities as Infrastructure Debate Continues" AP News: "Merck says COVID-19 pill cuts risk of death, hospitalization" NPR: "A massive oil spill in the Pacific Ocean has reached the Southern California coast" Washington Post: "Pandora Papers reveal secret offshore financial system for global elites - Washington Post" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, we’ve officially averted a government shutdown (at least for the next two months). Next, we share an update on the infrastructure bill vote and why Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen calls for this debt limit to be abolished. To close this news week, we share an urgent message from the CDC. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: “Senate Passes Short-Term Spending Bill to Avert Government Shutdown” Washington Post: “Debt ceiling worries prompts Treasury to ask agencies for more information about cash flow” Axios: “CDC issues urgent advisory calling on pregnant people to get COVID vaccine” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We kick off with the biggest news story on Britney Spears’ conservatorship battle. Next, we have a bit of an update on the infrastructure and debt ceiling negotiations (and why it’s looking like a stressful financial month). Then we move to Youtube’s new set of policies around anti-vaccine content, before closing with some scandalous stories out of South Dakota regarding none other than Kristi Noem. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: “Jamie Spears, father of Britney Spears, is suspended as her conservator” AP News: “EXPLAINER: What’s behind all the drama in Congress?” Washington Post: “YouTube is banning Joseph Mercola and a handful of other anti-vaccine activists” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This morning, we start with what you need to know about the debt ceiling and government shutdown showdown. Next, we move to what’s in the $3.5 trillion dollar spending bill, before closing with Nancy Pelosi’s plan to hold a vote on Thursday on a roughly $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: CNN: “US government will run out of money by October 18, Treasury secretary says” Washington Post: “Negotiations between Biden, Democrats intensify as $4 trillion agenda hits stalemate” NY Times: “Liberals Dig In Against Infrastructure Bill as Party Divisions Persist” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We start off with breaking news regarding R. Kelly’s sex-trafficking trial. Next, we move to Germany’s election results, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s response to border patrol agents who are at risk of losing their jobs, and Facebook’s plan to halt their kids’ version of Instagram. Next, the DEA just issued its first public safety alert in six years, and we close with a number of stories our of California. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NPR: “R. Kelly Found Guilty Of Racketeering And Sex Trafficking” Axios: “German elections: After close result, jockeying to replace Merkel begins” Washington Post: “Texas Gov. Greg Abbott promises beleaguered Border Patrol agents jobs” AP News: “Facebook puts Instagram for kids on hold after pushback” NPR: “The DEA Is Warning Of A Rise In Overdose Deaths From Fake Drugs Laced With Fentanyl” LA Times: “California’s universal voting by mail becomes permanent” Axios: “LA County to dismiss nearly 60,000 marijuana-related convictions” Axios: “Rep. Karen Bass launches run for Los Angeles mayor” Washington Post: “Arizona judge voids state’s ban on school mask mandates” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An Amtrak train derailed on Saturday, causing multiple injuries and deaths. On Friday, a federal court of appeals blocked New York City’s school system from imposing a vaccine mandate for teachers and staff. Plus, New York plans to face staffing shortages ahead of its vaccine mandates. Next, we cover Germany’s election results before closing with Liz Cheney’s comments on gay marriage. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: AP News: “Investigators probe deadly Amtrak derailment in Montana” Washington Post: “NY hospitals, schools fear staff shortage from vaccine rules” NPR: “New York May Use The National Guard To Replace Unvaccinated Health Care Workers” NPR: “Early Results Show The German Election Is Too Close To Call” NPR: “Swiss Voters Approve Same-Sex Marriage In A Nationwide Referendum” AP News: “Liz Cheney: `I was wrong’ in opposing gay marriage in past” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We close this week with your favorite — Headlines That Speak For Themselves. To start, the CDC announced its latest recommendations for who should receive Pfizer booster shots. Next, we have a few foreign policy stories this morning including the return of Taliban’s executions, Airbnb’s support for Afghan refugees, and a Senior U.S. diplomat’s resignation over inhumane treatment of Haitian migrants. On a related note, the Biden administration has suspended the use of horse patrols the Texas border. Then, we cover an upcoming potential government shutdown, the Collierville shooting, and what basically is a carbon copy of the the Texas abortion bill. Lastly, we move to NYC’s historic bill offering protections to food delivery workers and the federal arrest warrant issued for Brian Laundrie. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: “Covid Live Updates: C.D.C. Panel Recommends Pfizer Boosters for Many Americans, but Not Health Workers” AP News: “Taliban official: Strict punishment, executions will return” Axios: “Airbnb co-founders double Afghan refugee program to 40,000” NY Times: “U.S. Diplomat to Haiti Resigns Over Biden Administration Policy” NPR: “The Biden Administration Will No Longer Use Horses At A Texas Border Crossing” NY Times: “House Approves Funding for Israel’s Iron Dome” Washington Post: “Collierville Kroger shooting: Gunman kills 1, wounds a dozen at Tennessee Kroger” NPR: “A Florida Lawmaker Is Proposing A Restrictive Texas-Style Abortion Bill” CBS News: “Texas doctor who wrote op-ed about intentionally violating state’s abortion ban sued under new law” NY Times: “N.Y.C. Food Delivery Workers Would See Better Pay Under New Bills” NBC News: “Federal arrest warrant issued for Brian Laundrie in Gabby Petito investigation” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Texas Governor Greg Abbott is unfortunately building a more effective wall than Donald Trump ever could. Speaking of Texas, we cover a story about a couple who was kicked out on a restaurant for wearing face masks…but are we surprised though? Now let’s talk about the debt ceiling, why the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees is asking tens of thousands of entertainment industry workers to go on strike, and the latest of Trump’s recent lawsuit involving his niece. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: Washington Post: “Texas Gov. Abbott sends miles of cars along border to deter migrants” CNN: “A Texas couple wore face masks at a restaurant to protect their immunocompromised infant. The owner asked them to leave” NY Times: “House Passes Spending Bill and Debt Limit Increase Over G.O.P. Opposition” LA Times: “Hollywood union calls for strike authorization vote by crew workers” CNN: “Donald Trump sues niece Mary Trump, New York Times reporters over disclosure of tax documents” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices