In Trump country, attention turns to a competitive special election

The Trump administration has canceled interviews with finalists for the position of Federal Reserve chair, indicating that President Trump has likely made a decision regarding the leadership of the central bank. This move comes as Trump publicly endorses Kevin Hassett, a longtime adviser, as a leading candidate for the role.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced backlash after stating he did not remain to observe a second military strike on an alleged drug-trafficking boat, which resulted in significant casualties. This incident has drawn criticism from Democrats, who labeled Hegseth as 'spineless' and a 'national embarrassment.' The White House has been accused of shielding Hegseth amid growing scrutiny over the legality of these military operations.

The Trump administration has dismissed at least seven immigration judges in New York, a move that raises concerns about the administration's approach to immigration enforcement and judicial independence. This decision was discussed in an NPR segment featuring Jeremiah Johnson from the National Association of Immigration Judges.

President Trump criticized Representative Ilhan Omar, labeling her a 'terrible person' and suggesting that Somali immigrants should leave the U.S., referencing a significant fraud scandal in Minnesota. This statement was made during a recent media event, where he continued his pattern of derogatory remarks.

A shooting incident near the White House on November 26, 2025, resulted in the death of 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom, a member of the West Virginia National Guard, and critically injured another Guardsman. In response, President Trump announced a crackdown on immigration, halting many legal pathways to the U.S., particularly affecting Afghan nationals.

Former President Donald Trump granted a pardon to Juan Orlando Hernández, the former president of Honduras, who was serving a 45-year sentence in the U.S. for drug trafficking and weapons charges. This decision has sparked significant outrage and criticism across Latin America, undermining Trump's narrative of a strong stance against drug trafficking.

For-profit companies assisting military veterans with disability claims have come under scrutiny for charging exorbitant fees, with critics labeling them as 'claim sharks.' NPR's investigation highlights the financial burdens these companies impose on veterans navigating the VA's complex processes.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has appealed to OPEC for assistance as tensions escalate with the United States, particularly following President Trump's recent ultimatum. This situation arises amid Venezuela's ongoing economic collapse and increasing international isolation, which has left the country vulnerable to external pressures.