Cracks have emerged in the Maga coalition | Moira Donegan

Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) announced that she secured a provision in the annual defense bill mandating congressional notification of counterintelligence investigations into federal candidates following a conversation with President Trump and Speaker Mike Johnson. This development highlights her influence within the party and her proactive approach to legislative matters.

A bipartisan deal to extend Obamacare subsidies appears to be fading as the Senate grapples with divisions between Republicans and Democrats over healthcare reform. With the deadline for subsidy renewal approaching, the lack of consensus raises concerns about the future of healthcare coverage for millions of Americans.

Republican Matt Van Epps secured a victory in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District special election, winning by a margin of 52% to 46% against Democrat Aftyn Behn. This election, held on December 2, 2025, was closely watched due to its implications for both parties ahead of the midterms. Van Epps' win, although significant, was less decisive than the 20-point margin achieved by President Trump in the previous election.

The draw for the 2026 men's football World Cup will take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., featuring performances by Robbie Williams, Andrea Bocelli, and the Village People, with the latter expected to perform their iconic song YMCA. The event is co-hosted by Heidi Klum, Kevin Hart, and Danny Ramirez, and is set for December 5, 2025.

Republican Matt Van Epps won the special election for Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn by a margin of 52% to 46%. This election, held on December 2, 2025, was marked by significant financial backing from both parties, reflecting its high stakes in a traditionally Republican stronghold.

President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth are facing bipartisan scrutiny following a military strike in September that resulted in the deaths of survivors from an initial attack on a drug boat in Venezuela. Hegseth stated he was unaware of the second strike, which occurred after he left a meeting, leading to questions about the decision-making process within the administration.

Democrats are pushing to restrict the qualifications for immigration judges as the administration faces layoffs, highlighting concerns over the judicial system's integrity and efficiency. Concurrently, Republican Matt Van Epps has narrowly won a special House election in Tennessee's 7th Congressional District, defeating Democrat Aftyn Behn by a margin of 52% to 46%.

Democrats are pushing for legislation to limit who can serve as immigration judges following the White House's decision to appoint up to 600 military lawyers without requiring them to have immigration law experience. This move comes amid significant layoffs in the immigration court system.