US Politics
A poll by RMG Research indicates that nearly half of federal government managers plan to resist the incoming Trump administration. The survey showed a sharp divide along party lines, with a significant portion of Democrat bureaucrats indicating resistance, while most Republican employees expressed support. This resistance could pose challenges for the administration, which aims to cut wasteful spending. Conservative groups have expressed concerns that such resistance could lead to inefficiencies and delays in implementing policy changes.
Meanwhile, the defamation trial against CNN by veteran Zachary Young is reportedly proving challenging for the network. The case revolves around a report aired on CNN’s “The Lead with Jake Tapper,” which accused Young of exploiting Afghans by charging high fees. Evidence presented includes messages from a CNN correspondent expressing a desire to damage Young’s reputation. During the trial, CNN’s lead attorney faced criticism for accusing Young of lying about his employment status, which was later clarified as a misunderstanding. The judge reprimanded the attorney, impacting the network’s credibility and potentially influencing jury decisions on damages. The trial has sparked a broader discussion on media ethics, with critics suggesting that CNN’s eagerness to break the story might have compromised their due diligence.
Environment
According to an article from March 2024, Bayer is reportedly working to prevent lawsuits related to its product, Roundup, by influencing legislation in various farm states. This strategy, which could benefit pesticide companies nationwide, has faced opposition from a group of senators who are against limiting state and local pesticide regulation. In Iowa, where the cancer rate is notably high, a bill that could prevent lawsuits against pesticide manufacturers has progressed despite concerns. Bayer lobbyists have been instrumental in advocating for this bill, which shares similarities with legislation in Idaho. The company asserts that scientific assessments, including those from the EPA, support the safety of glyphosate, Roundup’s active ingredient. However, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies it as a probable carcinogen, linking it to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Courts have found research against glyphosate convincing, and evidence shows Monsanto’s efforts to influence studies and discredit opposing research. Environmental and health advocacy groups, such as the Pesticide Action Network North America, argue that these legislative efforts could undermine public health by limiting legal recourse for those affected by pesticides.
Economy
Janet Yellen, in her final act as Treasury Secretary, warned that the U.S. would hit its debt ceiling the day after President Trump’s inauguration. With the debt limit reinstated, the Treasury will use “extraordinary measures” to prevent a default, urging Congress to act swiftly. The debt ceiling, set at about $36 trillion, poses a risk of default if a new agreement is not reached, with potential impacts on risk assets and government operations. Despite the looming issue, the Treasury bill market shows no immediate signs of distress, possibly due to the expectation that a deal will eventually be reached.
Energy
California has withdrawn its request for a waiver from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that would have mandated a shift from diesel to zero-emission trucks. The decision, influenced by uncertainties with the incoming Trump administration, was welcomed by industry representatives who cited the impracticality and high costs of the proposed regulations. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is exploring alternative methods to achieve clean air goals, potentially partnering with private industry. Challenges in transitioning to electric trucks include insufficient charging networks and high acquisition costs, with concerns about the limited range of electric trucks compared to diesel. Environmental groups, however, have criticized the decision, arguing that it delays the transition to cleaner air and exacerbates climate change issues in California.
Geopolitics
Russia and Iran have signed a 20-year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty, elevating their relationship to strategic partners. The agreement covers defense, counter-terrorism, energy, finance, and more, with a focus on integrating national payment systems. The treaty aims to enhance regional stability and development, with both nations facing extensive US and EU sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict. The partnership is seen by Iran as a means to safeguard its independence and sovereignty, while Russia emphasizes the importance of international law and non-interference. Critics, including U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, argue that the pact further isolates both countries from the international community and undermines global security.
Health
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has cut off funding and formally debarred EcoHealth Alliance and its former President, Dr. Peter Daszak, for five years. This decision follows evidence of violations related to gain-of-function research in Wuhan, China, conducted without proper oversight. The violations pertain to a multimillion-dollar NIH grant, highlighting concerns over research practices and compliance with federal regulations. EcoHealth Alliance has expressed disappointment over the decision, arguing that it was based on misinformation and mischaracterizations of their work.
Sources
Bayer’s Legal Shield: State-by-State Push to Block Pesticide Lawsuits Raises Eyebrows
Insiders say Bayer is using the outsized sway it holds among the public and elected officials in agricultural states to quietly execute a new strategy: Pass laws, state by state, that take away farmers’ and other individuals’ ability to sue if they get sick.
Source | Submitted by Barbara
CNN Defamation Trial: Judge’s Rebuke Leaves Network’s Credibility in Tatters
Right now, your credibility with me, Mr. Axelrod, is about none.
Source | Submitted by PhilH
California Hits the Brakes on Diesel Truck Phase-Out Amid Industry Cheers and Infrastructure Concerns
California Abandons Regulations Phasing Out Diesel Trucks
Source | Submitted by Walberga
Poll Reveals Nearly Half of Federal Employees Plan to Resist Trump Administration
Nearly Half Of Federal Employees Say They Plan To Resist Trump’s Incoming Administration; New Poll
Russia and Iran Forge 20-Year Pact, Strengthening Ties Days Before Trump’s Inauguration
Russia & Iran Sign 20-Year Defense, Energy Pact 3 Days Before Trump Inauguration
HHS Cuts Funding, Debars EcoHealth Alliance and Dr. Peter Daszak Over Wuhan Research Violations
HHS has cut off all funding and formally debarred EcoHealth Alliance & its former President, Dr. Peter Daszak, for five years based on evidence uncovered by @COVIDSelect.
Yellen’s Parting Shot: Debt Ceiling Crisis Looms as Trump Takes Office
“I respectfully urge Congress to act promptly to protect the full faith and credit of the United States.”
Source | Submitted by bcoop
In addition to sources submitted by community members, the following were also used in the creation of this report: Civil Eats, Media Watchdog, The Hill, Reuters, Sierra Club, U.S. Department of State, EcoHealth Alliance.
by rhollenb 
