Republicans defend a deep-red House district in expensive Tennessee special election

The White House has distanced itself from U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding allegations that he ordered military strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of all individuals on board. A spokesperson clarified that while Hegseth gave the order for strikes, he did not instruct to 'kill everybody.'

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has proposed a new travel ban on visitors from certain countries following the fatal shooting of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom in Washington, D.C., by an Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal. This incident has reignited discussions around national security and immigration policies, echoing the hardline stance of former President Donald Trump.

Tennessee's 7th District special election is set for December 2, featuring Democrat Aftyn Behn and Republican Matt Van Epps, making it a focal point for congressional control as both parties invest heavily in the race. The district has historically favored Republicans, having supported Donald Trump in the 2024 elections.

House Democrats and Republicans are engaged in discussions to enhance personal security measures for lawmakers, focusing on the establishment of dedicated staff positions and improved safety protocols. This initiative comes in response to growing concerns about the safety of Congress members amid rising tensions in the political landscape.

Costco has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government to secure refunds for tariffs if the Supreme Court rules against former President Trump's authority to impose such tariffs. This legal action comes as the retailer faces a December 15 deadline that could impact the recovery of duties paid on imported goods.

Aftyn Behn, a Democratic candidate for Tennessee's 7th congressional district, recently faced scrutiny during a CNN interview where she avoided direct answers regarding police funding and her policy alignment with Kamala Harris. This comes as she campaigns for a special election set for December 2, 2025.

In Los Angeles, ICE has intensified its focus on car wash workers, employing tactics described as 'psychological warfare' by advocates like Andrea Gonzalez and Norma Fajardo from the Clean Carwash Worker Center. This surge in enforcement coincides with the Trump administration's broader immigration policies aimed at mass deportation, marking a significant shift in the treatment of immigrant workers in the region.

Republican demands for stronger anti-abortion provisions in the extension of enhanced ObamaCare subsidies have emerged as a significant hurdle in bipartisan negotiations, complicating the GOP's health care agenda. This situation reflects the ongoing tensions within the party regarding health care policy and abortion rights.