The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) is under intense criticism following its handling of the Pacific Palisades fire, which has destroyed much of the area and remains uncontained more than a week later. Records reviewed by the LA Times reveal significant lapses in resource allocation, with over 1,000 available firefighters and dozens of engines left unused during the critical early hours of the fire.
As President Joe Biden and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas approach the conclusion of their tenure on January 20, Mayorkas' border policies remain a significant point of contention. Reports indicate that by then, approximately 1.5 million illegal migrants will have entered the U.S. through parole programs established under Mayorkas' leadership.
South Korea’s Constitutional Court was forced to adjourn its first impeachment hearing for President Yoon Suk-yeol on Tuesday after he failed to attend, citing security concerns. Yoon, impeached in December following his abrupt imposition of martial law, faces charges of insurrection and is subject to an arrest warrant, further complicating the political turmoil.
Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey presented President-elect Donald Trump with a personalized Diet Coke bottle on Tuesday to commemorate his upcoming inauguration. The gift continues Coca-Cola’s tradition of marking U.S. presidential inaugurations with specially branded bottles.
President Joe Biden released a farewell letter to the nation on Wednesday ahead of his Oval Office address. The letter reflected on his tenure, showcasing what he claims are key accomplishments and personal triumphs during his presidency.
A Florida Planned Parenthood chapter has been accused of violating tax laws after providing the Harris-Walz presidential campaign with office space, according to a report from Fox News.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama will not attend the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, marking the second major event featuring former U.S. leaders and their spouses that she has missed in recent weeks. Former Presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush, along with their spouses, are confirmed to attend the swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol.
Vice President Kamala Harris has declined the customary invitation for her successor, Senator JD Vance, to visit the vice presidential residence at the Naval Observatory before President-elect Donald Trump's second inauguration on January 20. The decision breaks with a long-standing tradition observed during vice presidential transitions.
Freddie Escobar, president of the United Firefighters of Los Angeles County (UFLAC), criticized Los Angeles leaders for neglecting the city’s fire department, contributing to challenges in combating massive wildfires like the Palisades Fire. The fire has burned 24,000 acres, with another 14,000 acres scorched by the Eaton Fire, exposing severe resource and staffing shortages within the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD).
