Israeli Airstrikes Kill 40 in Lebanon's Baalbek, Escalate Tensions with Hezbollah
Israeli airstrikes in the Lebanese city of Baalbek and Beirut's southern suburbs have left 40 dead and 53 wounded. The attacks are part of a year-long conflict with the Iran-backed Hezbollah, recently intensifying. The strikes continued into Thursday without immediate casualty reports. Diplomatic efforts, including a U.S.-proposed ceasefire, have failed amidst heightened hostilities.
Republicans Sweep 2024 Elections, Poised for Major Policy Changes
The 2024 elections saw Republicans regain the White House with President-elect Donald Trump, flip the Senate, and likely hold the House majority. With unified control, they're expected to swiftly confirm Trump's Cabinet and advance his priorities, facing little opposition from Democrats. Key issues include tax policy revisions, government funding, and potential challenges around abortion legislation and the Affordable Care Act.
Vice President Harris Concedes, Trump Wins Election Amid Hurricane Rafael and Other News
Vice President Kamala Harris conceded her electoral defeat to President-elect Donald Trump, who won the popular vote and faces legal charges. She emphasized the continuation of her campaign's fight through various means and assured a peaceful power transfer. Meanwhile, Hurricane Rafael's path remains uncertain, and the Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates again. In sports, BYU football shines, and Prince William hosts the Earthshot Prize Awards in South Africa.
Chinese President Urges Cooperation with Trump's Election Win
Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated President-elect Donald Trump, emphasizing the need for U.S.-China cooperation. Amid tensions over trade and regional disputes, Xi's message reflects the importance of the bilateral relationship and the potential global impact of Trump's policies. Trump's approach could affect economic ties and strategic balances in Asia-Pacific.
Democrats and Republicans Secure Secretary of State Positions in Seven States
Democrats won secretary of state races in North Carolina, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington, with Republicans victorious in West Virginia, Missouri, and Montana. Incumbents Elaine Marshall, Sarah Copeland Hazas, and Steve Hobbs will continue serving as Democrats, while Republican Christi Jacobsen retains her role in Montana. Newcomers Tobias Read, Kris Warner, and Denny Hoskins secured positions in their respective states. Most elected Republicans supported Trump and questioned the 2020 election's integrity.
Uncertainty Lingers Over Control of US House of Representatives
After Election Day, the GOP controls the White House and Senate, but the House majority is undecided, with key races too close to call. Republicans are close to a win, with critical contests in Arizona, California, Maine, Maryland, Ohio, and Oregon still undecided. The outcomes will determine whether the GOP secures the House.
President Biden Commits to Peaceful Transition of Power in 2025
President Joe Biden confirmed a 'peaceful transfer of power' for January 20, 2025, after Donald Trump won the election. Speaking from the Rose Garden, Biden emphasized the importance of respecting the election's outcome and pledged cooperation with Trump's team for a smooth transition.
Black Male Support for Harris Falls Short Despite Campaign Efforts
In the presidential election on October 31, 2024, 78% of Black men voted for Vice President Kamala Harris, slightly below Biden's 2020 result. Despite late efforts to engage Black men with targeted policy agendas and campaign strategies, criticisms arose over insufficient engagement and messaging. Harris's support from Black voters stood at 86%, yet experts suggest a more aggressive approach highlighting Trump's potential policies might have bolstered her numbers.
LGBTQ+ Crisis Services See Surge in Use During Election Week
The Trevor Project reports a 125% spike in crisis service use by the LGBTQ+ community amid election week, reflecting anxiety over potential legislation. Organizations like The GLO Center offer support, stressing the importance of community connection. Election stress, specifically regarding transgender rights and same-sex marriage, has increased hotline activity, with a jump to 56% in LGBTQ+ users on Election Day. Allies are encouraged to provide practical support.
Dave Portnoy Criticizes Democrats After Election Loss
Podcast host and Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy delivered a scathing message to the Democratic Party following Vice President Kamala Harris's election defeat to Donald Trump.