Judge sentences former Jan. 6 defendant for hoax threat near Obama's home

In a reassuring move, the Trump administration has announced that members of the military will receive their paychecks on Friday, despite the ongoing government shutdown that has now reached its 30th day. This marks the second time the White House has successfully ensured that troops do not miss a pay period during this challenging time, highlighting the administration's commitment to supporting military personnel even amidst political turmoil.

Radio Free Asia has announced the suspension of its news operations due to the ongoing US government shutdown and budget cuts. This decision includes closing overseas bureaus and laying off staff, which raises concerns about the future of independent journalism and the impact on audiences relying on their reporting. The hope remains that RFA can resume operations in the future, but this move highlights the challenges faced by media organizations in times of financial strain.

The Trump administration has set the refugee admissions cap for the new fiscal year at a historic low of 7,500, as revealed in a recent Federal Register memo. This significant reduction raises concerns about the U.S.'s commitment to humanitarian efforts and its impact on vulnerable populations seeking safety. The decision reflects a broader trend of tightening immigration policies, which could have lasting effects on refugees and the global perception of the U.S.

The potential end of the automatic grace period for work permit renewals by the Trump administration could create significant challenges for law-abiding immigrants and businesses. This change may lead to unnecessary chaos, as many rely on this grace period to maintain their employment status while navigating the renewal process. It's crucial for the Department of Homeland Security to reconsider this decision, as it could have far-reaching implications for the workforce and the economy.

The Justice Department is looking into potential fraud involving leaders of the Black Lives Matter movement, who may have misused donations amounting to tens of millions of dollars raised during the 2020 racial justice protests. This investigation is significant as it raises questions about accountability and transparency within movements that have garnered widespread support and funding.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia's legal team is pushing for the dismissal of his criminal case, claiming that the Trump administration has obstructed a crucial hearing scheduled for next week. This situation highlights ongoing tensions in the legal system and raises questions about the fairness of the prosecution process, making it a significant issue for those following legal reforms and government accountability.

The Trump administration has dismissed around a dozen officials from Fannie Mae's ethics and internal investigations unit, following the recent ousting of the chief ethics officer. This move raises concerns about the integrity of oversight within the organization, which plays a crucial role in the housing finance system. The implications of these firings could affect public trust and the effectiveness of Fannie Mae's operations.

Democrats expressed frustration after a classified briefing regarding the Trump administration's military actions against alleged drug-trafficking boats. Members of the House Armed Services Committee felt that their concerns were not adequately addressed, leaving them unclear about the administration's strategy. This situation highlights ongoing tensions between the parties and raises questions about transparency in military operations, which is crucial for informed legislative oversight.

The upcoming matchup between the Giants and the 49ers is raising concerns among fans, particularly regarding the Giants' secondary. The 49ers are known for their strong passing game, averaging 259.3 yards per game, with Kendrick Bourne leading their receiving corps. Christian McCaffrey also poses a significant threat as a dual-threat running back. This game is crucial as it will test the Giants' defensive capabilities against a formidable offense, making it a key moment in their season.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are facing a critical moment as their offense struggles to perform, raising concerns about their chances for success. Despite the potential impact of star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the team's ability to win hinges on their bats waking up. This situation is significant as it could determine their postseason prospects and overall performance in the league.

A tragic incident in New York City highlights the dangers of severe weather as a man lost his life while attempting to rescue his dogs from a flooding home during a ferocious rainstorm. This heartbreaking story underscores the risks that extreme weather poses not only to human life but also to beloved pets, reminding us of the importance of preparedness and safety during such events.

In a controversial turn of events, the Dolphins faced a significant setback when a penalty for tripping was called against their defense, leading to frustration among fans and players alike. Many believe the call was unjust, raising questions about the referees' decision-making. This incident not only impacted the game but also sparked a broader discussion about officiating standards in football, making it a pivotal moment for the team and its supporters.

The New York Islanders faced a tough defeat against the Carolina Hurricanes, a game that felt reminiscent of the challenging times during the Mike Milbury era. The benching of star player Mathew Barzal raised eyebrows and highlighted the team's struggles. This loss is significant as it reflects ongoing issues within the team and raises questions about their future performance.

UCLA is facing a lawsuit from the Rose Bowl and the city of Pasadena for allegedly attempting to relocate its football games to SoFi Stadium, which is located about 12 miles away from the university's campus. This legal action highlights the tensions between the university and local stakeholders, as the Rose Bowl has been a historic venue for UCLA's football games. The outcome of this lawsuit could significantly impact the future of college football in the area and the relationship between UCLA and the Pasadena community.